It’s a good idea to become familiar with the area surrounding your hotel or hostel. Identify important landmarks as soon as you arrive, such as the local hospital or pharmacy, the American embassy, and a safe place to exchange your money for the local currency. Keep a map of the area with you and mark important places you think you might use often like subway or train stations, public restrooms, restaurants you’d like to try and landmarks you’d like to visit.
Leave your Expectations on the Plane
For the most enjoyable trip possible overseas keep an open mind to the way things are done in other cultures and be flexible with your time. Many foreign countries operate at a much more relaxed pace than America so don’t set yourself on such a tight schedule that you can’t allow for delays. For example, in Paris eating is considered a fine art. Lunches regularly last for two or more hours as friends enjoy good food, good wine and good company. Don’t expect to rush into a bistro or restaurant and be out in an hour and on to your next adventure or the seemingly slow pace of the wait staff will leave your frustrated. In many foreign countries, restaurants and shops close for several hours every afternoon as families gather for a meal and a siesta before opening again in the evening. Leave your assumptions and your expectations at home and just enjoy the unique differences of another culture. Isn’t that why you wanted to leave home in the first place? For the most authentic and enjoyable experience overseas learn to relax and enjoy the local flavor even if it goes against what you’re accustomed to.
Traveling to a foreign country can be an exhilarating and memorable experience that you’ll treasure your whole life. Make the experience safer, easier, and more enjoyable by using some common sense and learning as much as you can about the culture you’re going to visit before you embark. For more safety information, contact the U.S. Department of State.