Overcome your pre-departure jitters with our 10 useful international travel tips for first-time travelers. Follow these tips and travel abroad like a pro!

No matter how much you’ve traveled in your home country, the thought of taking your first trip overseas may feel both thrilling and nerve-wracking. At Go Overseas, we’ve been globe trotting for years and yet we continue to learn new tips and tricks when it comes to traveling.

Going somewhere completely new may be initially scary and confusing but it doesn’t have to be! Follow these simple tips of things to do before traveling internationally to ensure smooth sailing.

1. Prepare your travel documents

The most important tip to avoid unnecessary stress is to apply for your passport well in advance. Without your passport or a travel visa, your potential travel radius is limited significantly.

Passport

This can be an oversight for some people, but a passport validity of 10 years can make people complacent, forgetting that it actually requires renewing.

Many countries may not even let you enter if you have less than 6 months validity on your passport and your request for a visa may be denied if you don’t have enough free pages in your passport.

A general rule of thumb to follow is to make sure you have a valid passport at the time you’re before booking your flight. The process for applying for and receiving your passport can potentially delay your trip if you don’t apply in advance.

Visa

You’ll need to check in advance whether you need a visa which is a document issued by the destination country granting you entry. Showing up to your flight without the necessary visa may lead to you being rejected, especially if you cannot apply for one on arrival.

US and UK passport holders can travel to quite a few countries without a visa, or they can receive one on arrival. However, rules vary between countries so be sure to thoroughly research the entry requirements.

2. Research your destination

It is important to invest plenty of time in researching your destination to optimize your experience. While it may seem more fun to travel spontaneously, it is far more practical if you are able to anticipate some of the nuances of your destination country by studying the tips for traveling abroad for the first time.

Aside from differences in language and culture, laws may vary too. Did you know that chewing gum is illegal in Singapore? Or that it’s illegal to feed pigeons in Venice? If your plan was to ride a cow while intoxicated in Scotland, you’ll find that that’s prohibited, too. Foreign countries are full of laws that may be strange to you, but that’s only because it is not your culture. Knowing them ahead of time can keep you out of trouble.

Questions to research about the country you’re visiting

• Can you drink the tap water?
• What is the local currency?
• What is the dominant religion and are there rules around clothing modesty?
• Do you need any vaccines?
• How catered to tourism is your destination? Are accommodations for tourists widely available?
• What is the country’s main language? How widely is English spoken?
• Does the local food align with your dietary requirements?
• Do traffic laws in this location differ from your home country?

3. Address money matters

Before you set off for your far flung destination, you will need to notify your bank to let them know that you are traveling. That way, your bank doesn’t suspect fraud when they see your card is suddenly being used at a market in Thailand.

Depending on your destination, you may not have easy access to ATMs. Some countries that run on largely cash economies might not even have card readers at most restaurants or businesses. If this is the case, be sure to carry enough money on you to cover your expenses on a day out. Some travelers store larger sums of money in a money belt for safety.

4. Compare transportation & accommodation options

You are likely to be on the move every day, so be sure to research the most effective way to travel during your trip.

Transportation

Websites such as Rio2Rome and 12Go are great tools for exploring route options and figuring out which mode of transportation (bus, train, or plane) will be the quickest and cheapest.

Buses and subway systems are usually the most cost-efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation and also offer you the chance to embrace the sights and chat with locals. Otherwise, you can always download a rideshare app such as Uber, Cabify, Grab, or Bolt to get door-to-door service with vetted and licensed drivers at fair prices.

Accommodation

While hotels are always a good option, hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb can work out to be cheaper and more immersive, allowing you to meet other travelers. If you opt for a hostel, boutique hostels are oftentimes equipped with nicer amenities than budget hotels.

Should you choose to stay in one place for a considerable period of time, be sure to explore places that offer monthly discounts. Websites such as Hostelz.com compare sites such as Hostelworld, Booking, Gomio, and more, and also allow users to book directly through the site with the lowest prices.

5. Book everything in advance

If you are certain of your itinerary, the best time to book your trip is whenever you have the money and the commitment to travel. While it is nice to have the freedom to make the last-minute choice of where to stay, don’t be surprised if accommodation is scarce or suddenly very pricey when you show up at your destination.

It is not unheard of that last-minute travelers end up scrambling for accommodation because they didn’t book anything beforehand. Not only will you end up paying more to book whatever is available, but being left without a place to stay is extremely stressful when you’re in a new place for the first time.

The same goes for transport tickets – you’ll find the best deals by booking beforehand! The peace of mind of having your itinerary planned seamlessly from start to finish is truly priceless. It gives you more time to devote to enjoying your trip and less time stressing about what comes next.

6. Avoid travel fatigue

As you start booking your first international trip, your excitement may get the better of you and you may want to go all out. How many cities can you fit in one trip? How much can you see each day? Do you want to go north to south, AND east to west? Take our advice: slow down and take your time.

Tips to overcome travel fatigue

• Give yourself time to recover from Jet lag: Recovering from a long-haul flight is challenging enough – but when you’re in a new timezone, you’re bound to be jet-lagged. Traveling across time zones can throw off your circadian rhythm, and it can take a while to adjust to your new schedule. Allow yourself enough time to recover and rest before moving on to the next destination.
• Be prepared for cases of travel and motion sickness: Whether you are traveling by plane, car, or boat, you may be susceptible to suffering from motion sickness. Be sure to pack some travel sickness medication with you and allow yourself enough time to rest and get over it.
• Make sure to schedule enough time for each destination: Prioritize quality over quantity. It is far more rewarding to thoroughly explore fewer locations at your own pace than to barely and frantically scratch the surface of a whole country. Many travelers are too ambitious, trying to squeeze whole countries into their itineraries. Then upon reflection, these travelers go home realizing that half of their time was spent traveling.

7. Prioritize your health & safety

While you shouldn’t preoccupy yourself with things that could go wrong on your trip, being aware of your surroundings and taking precautions to keep yourself safe will go a long way in enjoying your new adventure.

Safety tips to follow while abroad

• Protect your items from pickpockets and petty theft: A crossbody bag or fanny pack is by far the most effective way to deter pickpockets and store your phones and wallets safely. Never keep valuables in your back pocket or the outer pocket of a backpack! If you’re really concerned, money belts you can wear under your clothes and theft-proof wallets are also good options.
• Stay connected: Share your itinerary with friends and family members before you leave so they can keep track of your adventures. Include addresses and contact information for any accommodation. If you are from the US, you can register with the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). That way, the local U.S. Embassy will know to get in touch with you in the case of a natural disaster, political unrest, or another emergency.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance: Travel insurance should be a non-negotiable addition to your list of things to do before traveling internationally. From emergency evacuations to reimbursement for lost luggage, travel insurance can save you a lot of money in the unlikely event that something bad happens.
• Use common sense: Ask locals and staff at your accommodation for insight on which areas to avoid, if any. Always try to travel with a buddy at night, and if you go out, don’t drink too much, especially if you are alone or without people you trust. If you use apps to meet new potential friends or dates, always meet in public places. Above all, always follow your gut if a person or situation gives you a bad feeling!

8. Pack appropriately

Packing appropriately can simplify your trip. Packing too much, too little, or simply setting off with a disorganized suitcase can all negatively affect your experience.

Here are some helpful tips to consider when it comes to packing:

• Use packing cubes: Never, ever, underestimate how much packing cubes can improve your travels. They help with organization, are space savers, and can even keep your clothes neater. Packing cubes are relatively cheap and help you keep it together – both literally and figuratively – while traveling.
• Travel light: While you should always make sure that you have something for warm weather, cold weather, and rain, remember not to go overboard. Having luggage that is too heavy can make getting around miserable (especially in older buildings with no elevators!). Concerned that you may run out of clean clothes? Use a laundry service, or better yet, treat yourself and buy some memorabilia in the form of clothes!
• Keep your possessions safe: This goes without saying, however, there are many different ways you can go about keeping your possessions safe. You can use a lock on your rucksack or suitcase to deter baggage thieves. Bring your important possessions (electronics, jewelry, etc.) with you in your carry-on bag. If you’re at the hotel and you’re still not at ease, keep your possessions in your room safe. Hostels often have lockers but you will need to provide your own lock.

9. Read up on airport travel tips

Pre-departure and airport anxiety are very common among both rookie and seasoned travelers. There’s just something about being in a big, vast building, with hundreds of departure boards and people rushing around that can make you feel uneasy and flustered, especially when you’re flying internationally for the first time.

However, navigating the airport is a relatively straightforward process, especially when you break it down bit by bit. You find out which terminal you fly from, check-in, make it through security, and then you can enjoy your pre-departure coffee. Voilà!

Ways to improve your airport experience

• Print off necessary documents beforehand (visa, flight tickets, accommodation details, etc.)
• Find out which terminal you’re departing from beforehand (some airports are big enough that the terminals are miles apart!)
• Check-in online ahead of time if you are able to do so!
• Download your favorite shows, movies, podcasts, etc to help pass the time.
• Weigh your bags the day before to ensure that you’re not over the limit.

10. Consider connectivity

While traveling can be eye-opening and liberating, it can get lonely at times, especially if you are someone who suffers from homesickness. But going abroad doesn’t mean that you have to go without speaking to your friends or family. There are many ways in which you can keep in contact with loved ones, whether you are calling them every day or just sharing pictures of your travels!

When keeping connectivity in mind, you should take into consideration:

• International roaming vs local SIM: You’ll need to decide whether it makes more sense to use international roaming through your current plan or to buy a SIM card while abroad. You’ll need a phone that’s unlocked in order to use a prepaid SIM.
• Availability of public wifi at destination: Using public wifi is a great way to save data. Major cities have wifi available all over, while other more remote destinations may have limited coverage.
• Need for a VPN: Social media and communication apps like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and others may be blocked in some overseas countries (China, Turkey, and the UAE, to name a few), so be sure to look into whether you need a VPN to access them.

Travel abroad for the first time with confidence!

Although compiling and completing the list of things to do before traveling internationally for the first time may be considered tedious, these are things that will greatly enhance your experience! Remember to plan ahead, acquire travel insurance, and grab some packing cubes. When it comes to your trip: slow down and prioritize quality over quantity! By being prepared for your first international outing, you will have a fantastic experience that will have you yearning for more!

Everyone wishes to visit the Maldives at some point in their lives. The Maldives is a popular tourist destination, capturing the laid-back island life via its beautiful scenery and matching beachfront homes. For all the travel aficionados, we have listed our picks for the must-visit places in the Maldives and the plethora of activities you can indulge in while here.

1. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving in the Maldives has lately gained popularity in the diving world especially one of the most famous things to do in the Maldives for couples. Divers may explore a vast playground of hundreds of lonely and uninhabited islands.

Channels link the Indian Ocean and the Lagoons between the islands. This water from the ocean is rich in plankton and nutrients, attracting a plethora of marine life. The coral in the Maldives is gorgeous, but what makes it so unique is the abundance of aquatic life!

There are many islands in the Maldives where you can spot Eagle Rays, Napoleon Wrasses, a variety of pelagic fish such as Giant Trevally and Barracuda, beautiful Manta Rays, and the extremely uncommon Whale Shark!

2. Baros Island

Baros Island is the only site in the Maldives where you can get up and personal with both indoor and outdoor experiences. The location is a natural treasure, with beautiful sand beaches above and lush coral reefs under the waves. What better way to take it all in than from an opulent private house with rooftop infinity pools?

3. Huvahendhoo Island

If you’re searching for the ideal location for a family holiday, Huvahendhoo Island is the place to be. The island was designed specifically for families with children. The island boasts a diverse range of eateries, resorts, and spas. There is also a Kids Club where your children may have fun while you rest in the spa.

4. Dolphin Watching

Enjoy a peaceful dhoni ride over the Indian Ocean in search of dolphins. The Maldives is home to numerous kinds of dolphins, which may be observed in the surrounding seas.

While nothing in nature can be guaranteed, there is no better place to see wild dolphins playing in their natural surroundings than right here in the Maldives.

Dolphin watching is one of the most exciting and is among the fun things to do in the Maldives which will leave you with lasting memories for years to come.

5. A visit to Banana Reef

Banana Reef, one of the Maldives’ oldest reefs, is endowed with spectacular caverns, towering cliffs, exquisite coral growths, and strong overhangs. Banana Reef is also home to sharks, barracudas, and groupers, making it one of the world’s most popular diving destinations. The tranquil and gentle currents, along with excellent visibility, make it ideal for first-time divers, learners, and beginners to get their feet wet. It’s also a great alternative for skilled and experienced divers since it allows them to go deeper and better explore the vibrant world under the surface of the sea. It is one of the most unique things to do in the Maldives.

6. Underwater Party

Life is murky and occurring six metres below the surface of the sea. As you descend beneath the waves at Subsix, Per Aquum, and Niyama, everything takes on an ocean blue hue. Taste the delicacies, see the shoal of eels float by, and enjoy every second of eating and partying with your loved one at Maldives’ largest underwater nightclub.

As the mood lighting sets the tone for the night, you’ll also be in the company of groupers, butterflyfish, and damselfish. This is one of the best things to do at night in the Maldives as the moments so lived are exhilarating and include just the perfect amount of pleasure and adrenaline.

7. Vaadhoo Island

Raa Atoll is a well-known atoll in the Maldives, home to some of the greatest resorts and must-see attractions. Vaadhoo Island is one of the islands that make up this atoll. This magnificent island may only have 500 residents, but the natural phenomena that occur here, known as the Sea of Stars, catches the attention of people from all over the globe and takes them directly to the shores of Vaadhoo, which delights them with one of the most unforgettable views.

The mesmerising waters of Vaadhoo Island are known as the Sea of Stars phenomena when they flash a bright blue beneath the night. The sea is believed to shimmer and glow, reflecting the stars under which the waves lap. This phenomenon arises as a result of the different phytoplankton that may be found in the water and glow at night. Although this is a self-preservation mechanism for the fish, the light released in the sea is nearly mesmerising. It is one of the most exciting things to do in the Maldives when on a honeymoon.

8. Thai Wok Restaurant

 If you enjoy Thai food, Thai Wok is one of the greatest locations to visit in the Maldives. The all-you-can-eat buffet that the restaurant serves every week is the greatest part. The buffet features a wide range of delectable options that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. With a beautiful atmosphere, the scent of their sizzlers and Thai foods tempts you. Though it appears to be a touch busy, the meal deserves a particular mention in any Male itinerary plan.

9. Discover An Uninhabited Island with JA Manafaru

The JA Manafaru, a luxury resort where you can have a picnic and explore the area, offers a boat excursion to the inhabited island. Get away from regular and everyday activities and spend the day exploring the area.

As one of the finest Maldives things to do on this trip, you may make your vacation valuable and create memorable memories. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and spend quality time with your sweetheart, making this one of the greatest holidays you’ve ever had.

10. Make plans for a date on Meradhoo Island

During the day, Meradhoo Island glows brightly with its undulating sand beaches and luxurious resorts. At night, the area comes alive with exciting music programmes and beach parties. The beautiful island is the ideal location for a refreshing vacation away from the rush and bustle of the metropolis.

11. Water Activities

One of the most adventurous activities and frequent budget travel ideas in the Maldives is to examine the distance of the coral reefs from the resort to see whether you can reach them by swimming or if you need to book a ferry from the resort for snorkelling or diving. Resorts and private organisers provide sea-kayaking, jet-skiing, parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, boating, and whale, dolphin, or Manta viewing tours. Before making a decision, compare their pricing.

How to reach?

Male International Airport (MLE) is the principal airport connecting the Maldives to all major South-East Asian nations, including India, China, and Sri Lanka. Direct flights from Dubai are also available, as are chartered aircraft from Europe, China, and Singapore.

In comparison to other nations, the Maldives has a more forgiving visa policy, since it provides everyone with a free 30-day visa on arrival, which may be extended to 90 days by presenting acceptable proof of adequate cash and a travel document.

In recent years, Vietnam has become an increasingly popular tourist destination for the plethora of things one can enjoy in this Southeast Asian country.

In 2024 alone, Vietnam recorded 12.6 million visitors in their country, which saw a 3.5 times increase in tourists compared to 2022.

One of the driving factors why tourists are drawn to the Land of the Blue Dragon is its affordability compared to its neighboring countries.

For this writer’s experience, you could travel to Hanoi with P10,000 ($170) pocket money for four to five days, and that would already allow you to do a daily food crawl and a little bit of thrift shopping.

Earlier this year, Filipino celebrities such as Gabbi Garcia, Khalil Ramos, Liza Soberano, and Kiray Celis were among those who were enchanted by the beauty of Vietnam.

If you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time, here are five travel tips and smart hacks to help you enjoy your trip smoothly.

Don’t miss out on Pho, Banh mi, and Banh xeo

You don’t have to worry about overspending when it comes to food, as most food establishments in Vietnam are cheap.

In Hanoi, don’t miss out on trying a bowl of authentic pho at Pho 10, which is listed in the Michelin guide for 2023 and 2024. A bowl of hot dish at Pho 10 ranges from 45,000 VND to 80,000 VND (P102 – P183).

As for Banh Mi, any food cart in the streets of Hanoi offers various delicious versions of the iconic Vietnamese bread with meat filling, but if you want a certain spot, Banh Mi 25 is the place to be. Price ranges from 30,000 VND to 40,000 VND (P68 – P91).

Another popular dish not to miss when in Vietnam is Banh xeo, also known as the Vietnamese crepe. For first-timers, experience the meticulous way of eating Banh xeo at Mr. Bay Mien Tay, a restaurant in Hanoi listed in the Michelin guide, where the servers will guide you on how to eat Banh xeo the Vietnamese way. Price ranges from 65,000 VND to P85,000 VND (P149 – P195).

Easily split group bills through an app

Suppose you’re traveling within a group and would stick to KKB (Kaniya-kaniyang bayad) method throughout your spending. In that case, it’s easier to rely on an online app to organize your expenses and automatically split the bill depending on the number of people in your group.

One of the free apps available on smartphones is Splitwise. This app lets you plan your trip, add people to the group on the app, and track your spending as you go along with your vacation. Through this approach, you won’t have to stress about paying the person who covered the bill right away before you forget, as it will reflect on the app once you encode your expenses.

Egg coffee is a must-try, but don’t drink it after 4 p.m.

Vietnamese coffee is known worldwide for its strong and robust flavor, and when in Hanoi, having a glass of egg coffee is a must.

Egg coffee was invented in the 1940s by Nguyen Van Giang due to the shortage of milk. This unique and intriguing beverage is still available to this day, and if you want to try its original recipe, head on to Café Giang for a glass of egg coffee for 25,000VND (P57). You can have it hot or over ice.

Since the coffee is strong, you might want to skip it after 4 p.m. to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Opt for a physical card from your digital bank

Compared to traditional credit cards, where your spending power depends on your credit limit, opting for a physical card from a digital bank gives you the freedom to set your budget by topping up the exact amount you’re willing to spend for a trip.

This writer used her Maya Mastercard on her latest trip to Hanoi and experienced no issues when using the card to withdraw money from an ATM and tapping the card in POS-enabled (Point of sale) establishments.

Another factor you can take advantage of by using a physical card from a digital bank is you can also track your spending in real time through the app. With traditional credit cards, you have to wait at least a day before it reflects on your bank’s app.

Stick to bottled water throughout your trip

Our gut reacts differently to all sorts of food and beverages we consume daily.

To be on the safe side healthwise when traveling to Vietnam or other countries, it’s best to stick to bottled water every time you dine out to ensure the water’s cleanliness.

It’s also advisable to bring your preferred over-the-counter medicines for gut health just to be prepared when your stomach acts up.

Eco-friendly travel has become the latest fad among those conscious travelers who want to leave a minimal carbon footprint.

The practice revolves around sustainability, conservation, and supporting local communities.

From verdant rainforests to tranquil beaches, there are a plethora of places around the globe that can be visited by eco-conscious travelers.

These places not only give you a taste of something unique but also promote environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

Biodiversity hotspot

Costa Rica’s biodiverse reserves

Costa Rica is famous for its incredible biodiversity and conservation efforts. Over 25% of the country is protected as national parks or reserves.

You can enjoy lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches while supporting eco-friendly lodges that focus on sustainability.

The country’s commitment to renewable sources of energy further makes it a top destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Green Adventures

New Zealand’s sustainable adventures

New Zealand is another country that caters to eco-minded adventurers and nature lovers.

The country markets eco-tourism with efforts like carbon-neutral tours and conservation projects.

From hiking in national parks to exploring geothermal areas or joining in wildlife conservation efforts, the country has a lot to offer.

New Zealand’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty makes it a perfect fit for eco-minded adventurers.

Cultural preservation

Bhutan’s low-impact tourism

Bhutan is another one that makes its mark with a low-impact tourism policy to preserve its culture and environment.

The government caps tourists’ numbers by charging a daily fee, which covers accommodation, meals, and guide services.

This way, there is the least ecological disruption and tourists get authentic cultural experiences in this Himalayan kingdom, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and traditional architecture.

Scenic sustainability

Norway’s fjords and green initiatives

Norway is known for its stunning fjords and dedication to sustainability with green initiatives such as electric ferries run on renewable sources of energy.

They include hydropower plants producing over 90% of electricity requirements across the country every year.

Tourists can discover these magnificent waters on eco-friendly cruises or set out on beautiful hikes. These trails are created with the least environmental impact.