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Travel doesn’t come without its concerns. In this post, I’ve put together a list of both common and uncommon questions about travel and the solutions that have worked for me.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAVEL
Is it possible to travel Europe without a credit card?
Kind of, but it’s difficult. With the exception of car rental, everything can be paid for in cash, but only in some countries. From my experience, the majority of outlets in Sweden and the UK don’t take cash. It’s generally not possible to make advance accommodation reservations without a credit card, but cash can be accepted if you walk in on spec. But don’t rely on this. Some places require a credit card to recoup damage or minibar expenses.
Debit cards are also accepted but check with your bank in advance to see if your destination accepts your type of debit card. Most visitor attractions accept payment by debit card for advance bookings.
How far in advance should I book my plans?
As a general rule of thumb, the earlier the better. My How to Afford to Travel post details the benefits of booking in advance. Availability and price depend on many factors such as time of year, destination, and clashing with local events. Budget airlines vary in their pricing structures, but to get the best prices on flag carrier airlines book at least six months in advance. For any large city (e.g. Paris, London), ensure you book at least three months in advance.
What’s the best way of obtaining a visa?
Through the embassy or consulate of your destination. Some countries have a visa on arrival system. I’ve a post on the Schengen Visa process for anyone visiting the EU/EEA region.
Can you get medication on the road?
That depends on what you require and where you intend to purchase. Countries differ in regulations so ask your local pharmacist for advice. Some countries require prescriptions for medication that you can get over-the-counter in your own country (e.g. To purchase aspirin in Ireland you need a prescription). Ideally, bring sufficient quantities from home for the duration of your trip. If you anticipate a delay in returning home, bring your prescription so that it can be filled at your destination.
Healthy eating on the road – Is it possible?
Yes, but with great difficulty! I’ve an entire post devoted to healthy eating while travelling.
What are the non-English speaking countries with the best fluency in English?
In my experience, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Netherlands and Sweden are top of the class. English fluency in Iran was surprising prevalent as well. But it’s always good to learn a few words of the language of your destination.
Best country to start solo travel in?
I’ve devoted a whole post on the best destinations for solo female travellers. The post contains general observations that are relevant for male travellers as well.
Spain or Italy – Which do you recommend visiting?
Well it depends on your holiday goals and the activities you wish to engage in. And the same principle goes for deciding between other destinations. Both countries are similar in terms of climate, transport infrastructure and scenery. Italy is more expensive, doesn’t have a lot of public beaches but the culture is exquisite. Personally, Spain ticks lots of boxes especially for beaches.
I’m on a budget. Do you recommend hostels or an Airbnb?
It depends on the destination. In Copenhagen, a bed in a shared hostel dorm was twice the price of the room that I booked in an Airbnb. What is more important is the experience. Hostels have different cultures (e.g. party atmosphere) so paying attention to genuine reviews on the reservation site (e.g. booking.com) may be more of a consideration than budget.
Is Ryanair a good airline?
Well, it depends on what you mean by good. If it’s safety, price, and comprehensive route map, Ryanair excels in this regard. If by good you mean flexible terms and conditions, then no, unless you book a Flexi Plus ticket. I’ve been flying regularly with them since 1991 and the problems I’ve encountered were always outside of the airline’s control. For more information, check out my Ryanair Review post.
Which is best – train or plane?
Always the train for me as there are no baggage limitations, security checks aren’t as invasive as aviation travel (Eurostar excepted), I can move freely through the carriage plus get to see the countryside. Besides, I love the relaxed atmosphere of train travel. But it depends on the length of the journey and the time allotted for travel.
Is it okay to travel without travel insurance?
Unless you are a clairvoyant, then no. Travel insurance is somewhat of a financial safety net if things go wrong. Some visas are not issued unless travel insurance is purchased for the trip.
FURTHER TRAVEL QUESTIONS
The second list of travel questions are ones that are sometimes asked but are still relevant.
How do you know which country to travel to next?
Again, the same principle applies to this as to the Spain v Italy question. Why are you travelling? What do you want to experience at your destination? Is there a particular reason (e.g. event) you wish to experience? This is where blogs and guidebooks come to the fore for inspiration.
How do I strike up a conversation with other travellers?
This is unique and personal to each traveller, and I can only share my introvert experience. Asking for practical information from someone who appears to have time to engage works for me as a start point. This is another reason why I like train travel.
Culture, gender and language skills can be both an advantage and a barrier to communication. Sometimes other people may be as nervous as you, so by initiating the conversation they are more likely to respond. You should be able to gauge whether a person wants to continue the conversation or not. Also, their reluctance to engage may be due to something other than you (e.g. their perceived level of language skills, life stresses etc).
Where is a good place to heal a broken heart?
Anywhere you will not be reminded of the circumstances of your broken relationship. Avoid honeymoon destinations and purpose-built holiday resorts. Focus on destinations with a non-judgemental culture towards a solo status.
I’ve been through a challenging period in my life and need a re-boot. Will travel help?
If you are under medical supervision/counselling then take the professional advice of your clinician rather than that of a stranger on the internet.
Personally, the change of scene that travel allows is perfect for a re-boot. While some stress is part and parcel of travel, choose a journey and destination that you feel will be as stress-free and unchallenging as possible, focusing on activities that are of interest to you.
There’s a guy at my hostel/hotel/resort who’s really annoying. What can I do to prevent this?
It depends on your definition of annoying and what exactly the behaviour is. Outlining it to the person in question can often remedy the situation. They may not even be aware of their faux pas. Taking a firm stand against serious transgressions such as unwanted invasion of personal space (e.g. kissing/groping), racism, homophobia etc. is essential and may require the intervention of staff. Nobody should undermine your right to dignity on holiday or anywhere else.
ARE YOU SERIOUS?
And these are the questions that amuse or gobsmack me!
This is my first time traveling international so how does money work?
Same as it does everywhere. You offer payment in return for goods or services.
I’m going to England to visit London, Edinburgh and Dublin. Any advice?
Get a map. Edinburgh is in Scotland and Dublin is in the Republic of Ireland which, as you can deduce from the word republic, is in an entirely different jurisdiction.
I’m flying with Turkish Airlines and transiting through Istanbul. I’ve seen Midnight Express and am worried about the journey.
I’ve flown with Turkish Airlines several times and rate their service quite highly. The new Istanbul Airport opened in 2019 so check out my review post. Midnight Express is the stuff of nightmares. Even though artistic licence was applied to some of the scenes, don’t smuggle illegal substances is still the moral of the story.
Arrivals Hall 