Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Going To Asia For the First Time?



Thailand is my first choice for a first trip to Asia. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. 


Here are a few things you might want to consider for your trip:

  1. Visit Bangkok: The capital city is a busy metropolis with a mix of modern and traditional attractions. Don’t miss the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn.

  2. Explore Chiang Mai: Located in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is famous for its temples and night bazaars. It’s also a great place to experience Thai cooking classes.

  3. Relax in Phuket: Thailand’s largest island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

  4. Discover Thai Cuisine: Thai food is renowned worldwide for its flavors and variety. Be sure to try local dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice. But be careful, this food can be very spicy.

  5. Experience Thai Culture: Participate in local festivals if possible. Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights) are two of the most celebrated events in Thailand.

Remember to respect the local customs and traditions.

Saturday, April 27, 2024

How to Safeguard Your Valuables When You Are Traveling

Here are some general tips to safeguard your money and valuables while traveling:

  1. Use a Money Belt or Hidden Pouch: You can use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your money, passport, and other important documents safe.

  2. Split Up Your Money: Don’t keep all your money in one place. Split it up among your hidden pouch, pockets, and luggage.

  3. Use Hotel Safes: If your hotel room has a safe, use it to store your valuables when you’re not carrying them with you.

  4. Limit What You Carry: When you go out for the day, only take what you need. Leave the rest of your cash, credit cards, and important documents in the hotel safe.

  5. Use ATMs Wisely: If you need to use an ATM, choose one that is in a public, well-lit location and be aware of your surroundings. 

  6. Secure Your Bags: Use locks on your bags to prevent theft. Also, try to keep your bags in sight as much as possible.

  7. Be Cautious While Using Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing your financial accounts from unsecured public Wi-Fi networks to prevent data theft.

  8. Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance that covers theft to protect your valuables.

Remember, the best way to protect your belongings is to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Safe travels! 😊

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Travel Tips for Older Women


 I like to travel solo. Traveling solo can be an empowering and enriching experience, especially for older women. I'm 68 and I take two or three solos trips a year and safety is always a concern for me.

Here are 10 safety tips to consider:

  1. Stay at a Hotel/Hostel: Choose accommodations with security and staff available 24/7.
  2. Stay Connected: Have a working phone with access to maps and emergency contacts.
  3. Share Your Itinerary: Let someone know your travel plans and update them regularly.
  4. Make Copies of Important Documents: Keep copies of your passport and other vital documents separate from the originals.
  5. Do Your Research: Know about the place you’re visiting, including cultural norms and safety concerns.
  6. Choose Your Location Wisely: Select hotels or B&Bs in safe areas and study maps in advance.
  7. Be Present and Aware: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
  8. Don’t Overshare: Be cautious about how much personal information you share with strangers.
  9. Dress Appropriately: Respect local customs and dress codes to avoid unwanted attention.
  10. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.

Remember, preparation and awareness are key to enjoying a safe and memorable solo travel experience. Happy travels! 🌍✈️

A Man from Uzbekistan