coffee Convos

Let’s be real.

Traveling is something we all dream of.

The rush of a new country we’ve always wanted to visit. The authentic foods we get to taste, the sites we get to see, and the experiences we get to keep for a lifetime.

Traveling is a type of experience that everybody loves. Regardless of whether you’re going near or far, to a new country or down the road to the cafe you always wanted to try.

Here are a few things I’ve learned while traveling during the summer months.

1: Stay Hydrated

Passing out in another country is never fun.

And especially with climate change and global warming, our summer vacations are getting more and more hotter.

Staying hydrated is not embarrassing. Carrying a water bottle is not embarrassing.

Despite not drinking much water in life before, staying hydrated or carrying a hydration packet- just in case- will always help in the long run.

When I first went to Korea during the summer, I did not know how high their humidity levels reached. I almost passed out because I didn’t consume enough liquids while walking everywhere.

It was an eye-opener, especially since where I come from, I don’t necessarily need to consume copious amounts of water while in public.

Learn from my mistake, even if there’s a convenience store nearby and you grab a small water bottle to chug right there, it will help.

2: Have a Plan

Whether it’s a safety plan or an itinerary for the entire trip, have a plan.

It’s not fun traveling to a new place without a plan. Been there, done that. I do not recommend it.

Having a general idea of sites you want to visit or a plan of action if somebody gets hurt will help in the long run.

The first time I went to Japan, I did not know what I wanted to do. While I was severely jet lagged and had a month to experience Japan, I sat with the question ‘What am I going to do today?’ every morning.

Long story short, I wasted a lot of time and was not able to experience Japan to its fullest.

Learn from my mistake. Make a plan or at least have a general idea of what you’re doing when traveling to your destination.

3: Be Respectful

Traveling is stressful.

It’s supposed to be a time we can relax and make the most out of our ‘me time’ while we can. Though I can’t stress this enough.

Be respectful, be courteous, and be humble when visiting other people’s homes.

The culture in places you are traveling to is not the same as your everyday culture.

When I traveled to Hawai’i, the locals were welcoming and friendly if you respect their culture. Though, some seemed entitled to their vacation time in paradise.

After talking with some natives, it’s obvious there seems to be a rift between visitors and the natives now.

Learn from others’ mistakes. Be respectful regardless of where you’re traveling to and maybe you can learn about their culture a little too.

All in all, have fun but don’t leave a bad impression on both your trip and the destination you’re traveling to.

Until next time,

Sweet T.