Hey folks! Welcome to Episode 72! Last year, (2024), I got my toes wet in Mexico; and my thirst for more is unquenchable.

So, with my mustard-seed of excitement for the upcoming year, I am going to let ya’ll in on my up-coming travel plans.

Here are a few photos from my trip to Mexico; it was sincerely one of the most fun trips I have ever been on. Knowing how well I handled being in Mexico, and knowing very little Spanish, I have the overwhelming confidence that I can go anywhere and do anything.

Here are my top 10 Learned Experiences from Mexico:

1. Always have CASH. Not a lot, but enough for a cigarette, a Tostada, a Coke, and a Tamale. PLUS, whatever shenanigans you’re going to get into at the bars.
   
2. KEEP YOUR ID, and PASSPORT somewhere safe. Personally, for me, this was on my person 100% of the time. Staying in Airbnbs, you don’t know exactly who has access to your room(cleaners, etc.)
   
3. Have a travel partner! Personally, this saved my bacon numerous times. If you don’t have a traveling partner, talk to someone back at home, DAILY. Just in case something goes sideways.
   
4. Make copies of your Passport/ID; and either give them to your travel partner, or home base folks. Personally, I didn’t do this, and didn’t have any issues, and I would still recommend it.
   
5. BRING A WATER BOTTLE, and have extra coin to replace it if you lose it. P.S., extra coin to buy a bottle of water; it will make your day that much better if you get lost.
   
6. AIRBNB + UBER; without these two companies, my ability travel abroad would have been stomped. Being able to book a clean room, in minutes, WHEREVER is super convenient. AND UBER, don’t even get me started; being zipped accross the city for $10 bucks, or less is always worth it.
   
7. Make sure your Travel Apps are hooked up with your Debit Card/Bank Account. You can get a taxi, however, they always overcharge, and only accept Cash. My taxi ride was like $50 Pesos, whereas the Uber is somewhere around 16-25 Pesos. The choice is yours.
   
8. Be sure to double check to make sure your debit or credit card has a low exchange rate. My bank that I was using at the time only had a 1% exchange rate, which is like pennies to pesos. AND update your bank so they know how long you’re going to be out of the country, so they can stop any suspicious transitions.
   
9. PACK A CAMERA. I shouldn’t have to explain why this is important. Thankfully I had an Iphone at the time, and the Camera quality was just good enough. Packing a secondary camera might be a little risky, particularly a large expensive one. The less flashy you are, the less attention you’ll attract.
   
10. Finally, ALWAYS have a back up battery pack and/or, if you’re going off exploring on your own, you DO NOT want your Google or Apple Maps to power down. I got within two blocks of my apartment and got lost, because my phone died. Although, it ended up with a fabulous haircut, being stranded can be very stressful. Thankfully the kind stylist allowed me to charge my phone, and directed me towards my apartment.
    
    

Some of the places I would like to see are:

New Orleans, and New York, obviously. I’ve been to Chicago before, and that was a might cold; the Reflecting-Bean was exciting to see, though.

That is as far as it goes, state-side. There are very few places I would actually like to see here in the U.S….,

Sedona, AZ, and Puerto Rico, & The Bahamas.

Some of the international destinations on my Bucket List are:

Scotland
Ireland
England
Spain
Italy
Switzerland
Norway
Germany
Sweden
Greece
Egypt
Jerusalem
India
China
Japan
The Philippines

For my upcoming international travel, I have comprised 10 international travel tips.

1. Check Passport and Visa Requirements Early

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Some countries require a visa, so research entry requirements well in advance. Some visa applications can take weeks to process, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

2. Download Offline Maps and Translation Apps

International roaming can be expensive, and sometimes internet access isn’t reliable. Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) and translation apps (Google Translate, Duolingo) so you can navigate and communicate even without a Wi-Fi connection.

3. Alert Your Bank and Credit Card Companies

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid your accounts being flagged for suspicious activity. Also, ensure you have a mix of payment options (credit cards, local currency, digital wallets) in case one doesn’t work.

4. Pack Smart and Light

Avoid overpacking by bringing versatile clothing that can be layered. Stick to a carry-on if possible to save time at the airport and avoid baggage fees. Also, make sure you pack essential items (medications, chargers, travel adapters) in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed.

5. Use a VPN for Online Security

Protect your privacy and security while using public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes, or hotels by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). It will encrypt your data and keep hackers from accessing your personal information.

6. Learn Basic Local Phrases

Even if English is widely spoken in your destination, locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort to learn a few key phrases in their language. Simple greetings like “hello,” “thank you,” and “goodbye” can go a long way in building rapport.

7. Be Aware of Cultural Differences

Research the local customs and cultural norms of your destination. This can help you avoid unintended faux pas and show respect for local traditions. For instance, tipping practices, dress codes, and table manners can vary significantly around the world.

8. Stay Safe with Travel Insurance

No matter where you’re going, it’s always smart to have comprehensive travel insurance. This can cover lost luggage, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and even lost passports. Make sure the policy covers the activities you plan to do (e.g., adventure sports or high-risk activities).

9. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart

Traveling can be tiring, and jet lag can take a toll on your body. Stay hydrated, especially during long flights, and be mindful of what you eat. Avoid drinking tap water in some countries, and stick to bottled water when in doubt to prevent stomach issues.

10. Have a Plan for Communication

Keep in touch with family or friends while you’re abroad. Consider getting a local SIM card or using eSIM if your phone supports it. Many carriers offer international plans, but a local SIM can often be a more affordable and convenient option for staying connected.

Okay, folks, that pretty much covers all of my bases; if you’re going to travel internationally, there is no point in making it more memorable than it has to be; unless that is your way. Lol

Wishing ya’ll the very best!

Daniel out!