Travel tips I have learned

Following a rather disastrous visit to Mallorca with my daughters almost 15 years ago,  I made the decision to thoroughly do my homework before I go…

I had relied on a young guy in a call centre advising me on a package all inclusive holiday. His idea of a good holiday did not quite match with mine. First time travelling overseas with two young children was an experience to say the least – but a huge learning curve.  

• Take your time, ask your friends, email local places of interest, restaurants and hotels

• As a teacher nothing frustrates me more than listening to people who refuse to make an effort to try the language. People appreciate the effort. Google translate and other sites make this so much easier – no excuse

• Contact the hotel before you go and get a feel for the place. A friendly email saying how much you are looking forward staying works wonders and build a rapport before you get there

• Cut out the middle man. We always contact the hotel we like and ask them if they prefer we pay them directly. This way they get 100% of the bill (ie no commission charges to a third party booking site), we don’t have to claim a refund should there be an issue and we are unable to go and in every case we have been given a superior room

• Local recommendations – ask, ask, ask. We love places off the beaten track following a recommendation

• Airbnb – take a gift for your host. Always appreciated and should you want to return you may get a discount

• An under seat carry on bag for a short trip or two hours hospitality in the lounge…? A no brainer for us now

Bon Voyage