Nine Top Tips for Travellers

I have travelled extensively both as a tourist and businessman. Here are some tips aimed particularly at the Western visitor to less developed countries.

1. Get a good guide book. Read about the places you are going to visit on tripadvisor and other internet sites to learn from other's experiences. Take a good guide book with you which will advise on sites to see and places to eat and stay.
   
2. Take low denomination dollars. Dollars and Euros are welcome in nearly all parts of the world and are often preferred to local currencies. Dollars are handy in that you can get one and five dollar bills which are very useful for tips.
   
3. Take two wallets. Put your credit cards, driver's licence and large bills in one wallet which you keep well hidden but also take a second wallet or purse for some local currency and low denomination dollar bills. Make payments from this wallet if possible. If you are unlucky enough to be robbed make sure that it is your second wallet that is taken.
   
4. Engage with the locals. As a Western foreigner you will be seen as someone wealthy and will be approached by hawkers and beggars. You should be firm but polite with them - a clear 'No thanks' often works but if they persist then you should just walk away. Don't let these experiences put you off meeting and chatting to local people - often they are open and welcoming. They want to use their English and talk to you. Visit the local shops, a church or even a school (with permission) to meet genuine and friendly people. Spread a little money around by buying some local craft souvenirs and giving tips for good service.
   
5. Barter. Bartering is unusual for Westerners but it is natural in many parts of the world. The first price that a trader asks for his goods is generally more than double what he would be willing to accept so if you are interested then reply to his price with an outrageously low offer. Your best tactic in the negotiations is to walk away - this generally causes a fresh price reduction. Barter over taxi prices too - always agree the price before you start the journey. Do not just leap in the taxi and trust the meter as you would at home.
   
6. Guard your health. Get the recommended inoculations before you go. Take your malaria tablets daily. Drink only bottled water unless you are sure the tap water is safe. Avoid ice in drinks. Peel all fruit. You will probably get a bad tummy at some stage so pack your favorite remedy in your toilet bag. Beware the strength of the midday sun. Take precautions.
   
7. Change money wisely. The worst place to buy local currency is probably your hotel and the second worst is at the airport. You will get a better rate at local banks or money shops. You will get the best rates from black-market or street traders but these are dodgy characters and you may well be laundering some of their illegal earnings.
   
8. Take old things and leave them. Obviously you should not take your best watch or jewelry. But take some old clothes and books. You can then leave them behind to make some space in your suitcase for the return trip. In many parts of Africa locals will gladly take your old clothes, shoes, books etc. If you really want to make a difference take your old laptop, use it to skype at the internet cafes and finally give it to a local school at the end of your trip.
   
9. Keep safe. Mind your personal safety at all times. Travel in pairs or in small groups. Let people know where you are going. Do not wander alone at night. Public transport is generally safe but get a taxi home at night.

Above all relish the wonder of the places you visit and enjoy the local experiences.

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