Hong Kong Getaway: First-time Traveler Jitters

Last September, my wife got herself a 3-day 2-night Hong Kong budget tour. It was her first out-of-the country trip. The experience was a bit jittery for her to handle. From the planning stage up to the day of departure, it was all bundle of nerves for her . But on flight day, her mood had somehow change for the better. Why? The night before, I gave her a departure love box. Inside the box is a note containing Papaleng’s first-timer traveler handy tips! Isn’t that so sweet of me. LOL. Kidding aside, first time travelers will benefit much following this tips:

Pre-departure:

* Go ask Mr. Google some information about your destination site. This information must include the place’ popular landmarks, road maps and knowing some friendly local words or phrases.

* Make an itinerary and stick to it.

* Have photocopies of all travel documents.

* Know the local embassy address. If an embassy is not in the city you are in, have their phone in-hand.

* Make a note of emergency numbers.

* Carrying lots of cash is never a good idea; consider bringing along a travelers cheques or internationally accepted credit cards. Keep in mind that most hotels and big shops accept credit cards.

* Check currency before traveling. It is best to keep information about foreign currency services with yourself handy.

* Keep your travel documents with you at all times when boarding a train/bus or any such public transport.

* Don’t forget your camera.

* Check with the airline agency you've booked in for flight notifications.

* Pack only the things that you will need.

* Go to bed early and catch a sound sleep.

Departure Day:

* Wake up early, have a light meal and take a shower.

* Check out your destination’s weather condition and dress appropriately.

* Have your mobile phones handy and keep mobile.

* Check again all pertinent travel documents including passport, visa(if required), airline ticket, Identification cards, ATM/Credit cards, traveler’s cheques and medication if you are taking one.

* Be at the airport 3 hours before departure time.

* Check-in all your baggage at designated baggage drop zone.

* Stay cool and wait for your boarding call in the gate area.