When heading off on an adventure overseas, it’s only natural to want to make the trip as close to your idea of perfect as possible. Travel always costs money, and why spend money if things aren’t perfect, right? Compromise probably isn’t something you’ll want to have to consider, but it may become a necessity during stints of your journey.
Here are five times when you’ll have to compromise when travelling.
Holiday when it’s cold
Nobody wants to have to wrap up in an abundance of layers when on holiday, but sometimes that potential will become a reality if no other options are available. Whether it’s because you just can’t find the time to take off from work, or the prices are just a little out of your range, summer travel is not always possible.
We all love strolling around in the baking sun, but there are disadvantages to taking a trip in the prime seasons for weather – such as overcrowded streets. There are several good reasons why travelling in winter is better anyway, so don’t let the colder conditions put you off.
Places like Venice (for example) are just as popular in winter, as in summer – and visiting when it’s a bit cooler, may actually mean you can do more exploring. Same for places like NYC – one of the most beautiful times to visit is actually Autumn – so whilst you may not think it’s the best time, actually the city is stunning.
Listen to travel friends
Whether it’s your family, a group of close friends or even just your partner, it’s important to remember the holiday is for them just as much as it is for you.
If someone in your group wants to take a trip to a spot you think sounds utterly boring, you don’t necessarily have to go – but don’t expect them to come with you when it’s your turn to pick an event.
Naturally, you could decide to separate and head-off on your own, and this can work perfectly, if you’re both comfortable and confident being on your own. Alternatively, why not try a system where you each choose a day out, or an activity, and the other one has to go along with it no matter what. Maybe you’ll surprise yourself and love it?
Travel Overnight
Sure, you’d love to shacked up in some warm bed in a hotel room, but sometimes the need to get to your next destination simply can’t wait. If you’re running on a tight schedule, or are expecting costly travel expenses to your next stop if you make the journey at more ‘reasonable’ hours, making an overnight trip might be worth your while.
It isn’t as relaxing an evening as you probably would have liked to enjoy, but often in Europe an overnight train ticket will cost less than a budget hotel room – and you’ll wake up in a new destination. This is recommended as one of the top travel tips that will help you pay less whilst away, so definitely worth a thought. I recently did an overnight coach up to Scotland, and whilst it wasn’t the most glamorous or comfortable night, it was a fraction of the cost of a train ticket, and we didn’t have to pay for a hotel (because we woke up in the Scotland on a new day).
It puts you out a little, but ultimately electing to keep on the move – and sleep on a train, plane or bus – is probably the best option for you, even if it isn’t the most desirable.
Give people their free space
You might feel like you want to hang out as a collective group (or couple) at all times, but it’s also important to remember to give your companions some time to themselves.
Maybe you’re an extroverted personality who loves surrounding themselves with people at all times, but that doesn’t mean everyone in your group feels the same way. “Everyone needs some “me” time, especially introverts traveling in a group”, so make sure you take a step back and let them have it.
I remember when Pad and I were travelling in Australia, we had this one day where he wanted to work, and I wanted to read. So he sat in a cafe all day doing his thing, and I sat on the rooftop all day reading my book. It was actually nice to have a bit of space.
Eating out
You may want to dine at the finest eateries in your location of choice, but sometimes prices rise just that little bit too high for rationality.
As such, you may need to make a compromise and tuck into food which markets itself as a bargain – perhaps even stopping off at road-side stalls for your nightly meals.
This one depends heavily on how much money you have with you on your journey. If you’re able to splash the cash with reckless abandon, it shouldn’t be a concern. However, if you’re on more of a budget you may need to eat at some considerably cheaper establishments.
Nobody wants to have to compromise when they’re next away, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. Bear these tips in mind when you plan your next holiday – it might save you some hassle in the long-term.
What you shouldn’t compromise on…
The person you travel with! Never travel with someone you don’t want to travel with – your travel companion will make your travel experience either incredible or awful, so you really need to make sure you pick the person wisely. No one to travel with? Travelling can either be a great way to kick-start a new relationship, or a you could just travel on your own!