Okay!
So, as many of you have asked me to share how and when I started traveling? How do I manage to travel frequently and manage work and the rest of the things simultaneously?
So, a year ago, I started traveling.
And as it is said and known, taking the first step is the most difficult
Similarly, for me, it was difficult.
Extremely difficult
So was the excitement pumping in my soul.
Starting from the struggle to convince my parents to travel, to understanding how to travel, how to plan, and simultaneously maintain pocket.
It soaked my heart with a mad rush
I am no pro, but, I’d be sharing the tips and tricks that can help you to start traveling:
STEP 1: PLANNING:
One of the most important things to travel is to plan properly. Many people say that it’s fun to not plan while traveling and go in the direction of the wind. Honestly, I think this makes sense, only if you have ample time or money to explore the core of the place you’re traveling to. The reason is I love slow- travel. It involves less planning and more exploration. But, the majority of us, don't want to spare extra time or money while traveling. So, it’s extremely important to pre-plan the experiences that you are looking for. Starting from the choice of place, to the bookings of travel and accommodation, to understanding the culture and places around the region you are traveling to. It’s a fun process. It makes you more liberal towards the choice of your experience and makes you cherish each given moment. By planning I do not mean sticking to deadlines, or covering points, what I mean is knowing what sort of an experience are you looking for. Personalizing the experience altogether.
STEP 2: BUDGET:
Harshly, Travel isn’t a cheap hobby. It involves managing your resources. But, I would add to that by mentioning that it isn’t like only rich folks can afford to travel. With proper planning and implementation, budget travel is also possible. I started traveling when I became financially independent. It gave me a greater sense of money management. Self-earned money gives you the liberty to experiment. It gives you a greater sense to choose what’s important and what’s not. Personally, travel has given my life a bigger purpose. I have outgrown myself each time I have put my foot outside my home/ Comfort zone. So, I manage to keep a track of my travel funds and accordingly select my destinations, number of days, transportation options, etc. And one thing that would help you save well in your pocket is Planning, my friend. Because as good as it sounds, sudden plans sometimes get heavy on your pocket. So, it’s better to pre-plan the major stuff, like transport, accommodation, etc. Rest, you can figure out when you reach your destination. Hire a bike/scooter and explore the places around you.
For people, who aren’t financially independent yet, there are options of volunteering and traveling for free. Let me know if you would want another blog having more information regarding it, in the comments section.
STEP 3: MANAGEMENT:
Travel is fun if you know how to manage yourself. It teaches you a good sense of decision-making, spontaneity, and intuitive choices as your experiences increase. But, it’s extremely important to be willing to manage yourself while traveling. I started traveling in the WFH era, and, as I mentioned I like to travel slowly. So, to plan and manage my travel expeditions I need to manage work simultaneously. Chose the dates and destinations based on my work requirements and connectivity. Choosing accommodation and transport options based on my work needs. For example: Taking overnight transportation so that I don’t take leaves to travel from one place to another. Instead, I can save those leaves for actually exploring the place. Checking my calendar and pre-planning my vacations nearby long weekends or holiday season, so that I don’t end up paying extra during the extra rush hours.
Choosing backpackers hostels, with good Wifi connectivity options, instead of a hotel. Wherein, I get the opportunity to meet new people and explore better.
PRO-TIP: JUST START
Above all this, you just need yourself and zeal to travel within you to see the world and its beauty. Don’t wait for another salary credit, another holiday, or another friend, to postpone your travel plans.
Just take that bag and go see the world.
Traveling Solo seems a little off to many people. But I think all of us should give it a try, once in our lifetimes. There are ample options to make friends while traveling and staying safe and entertained.
Although, I haven’t had a chance yet to travel completely solo, until now.
PS. I am doing my first solo trip this month-end and I am excited about it. Do let me know if you want me to share my experiences from my first solo trip to Bir, HP. [lowkey wish me luck too]
