Travel Tips
Air travel is one of the most exciting and comfortable ways to reach up to a destination. It is one of the quickest means of transportation as well as you can reach anywhere within the shortest time possible. You get all the facilities and comfort on your journey through an airplane. Though it is a bit expensive, but is definitely worth it!
But, travelling by air requires us to keep certain things in mind. There are a few things which we must make sure to have a smooth and hassle free journey through the air. We present to you some of the tips :
Before the flight
Make sure you know the flight number of all your flights. Write all the details of your flight on a paper and keep that with yourself as you will need it to find the counter to check in, to find your gate to board the aircraft, and to claim your luggage. Also for some countries, you have to fill out numerous forms on entering or leaving and the flight number is always asked.
What to bring
Airlines keep you busy with food and entertained with movies and other films, but there is still a lot of time to kill. So the best option is to carry a book along if you are an enthusiastic reader.
Bring ear plugs and something to put over your eyes if you want to sleep peacefully. It might be a good idea to get one of these U-shaped inflatable head rests that go around your neck and keep your head from flopping to the side when you have fallen asleep. Some seats have head rests which allow the sides to be folded forward for the same effect.
Pack all toiletries, medication, etc. that you need especially a toothbrush and toothpaste. Napkins, paper cups and stuff like that are available in the toilets.
Most of the times it is quite cold inside the plane, so wear long trousers and bring a sweater. Blankets are normally provided
Checked-in luggage can get lost. Place all things your really need like maybe some extra clothes, hotel reservation info, etc.and all valuables such as mobile, camera, etc in the carry-on bag.
Arriving at the Airport
Airlines normally ask you to be at the airport, no less then two hours before departure time. You don't really need that time, but if anything goes wrong you will be happy to have it. Long distance international flights are normally fully booked, so it will be difficult to get on another plane if you miss your scheduled flight.
After checking in and getting rid of your luggage, you have to go through security and a passport check. In most cases this doesn't take much time, but sometimes there are long queues and if there is anything wrong with your papers, this is the time it will be noticed. Do this early so that you have plenty of time to get to the gate.
Look at the computer monitors and flight information boards often. Listen to announcements. Gate assignments and flight times do change sometimes, especially at large, busy airports.
Entering the Plane
After first and business class passengers and "those traveling with small children", the plane will usually be boarded by row number starting from the back. After getting your seat just sit down on your seat and wait until everyone is on the plane, then sort out your luggage and store it away properly.
Food and Drinks
If you are always hungry and want to get your meal first, tell the travel agent to order a special meal for you. Special meals are given out first.
Ordinary meals are given out from the front of the plane moving backwards. Sometimes there is a choice of different meals and your choice might not be available any more if you are seated far back in the plane. So you might want to go for a seat up front.
Drinks such as water, soft drinks, coffee, tee, beer, wine etc are available with the meals. Between meals flight attendants will normally come around every once in a while with water or juice. As a sensible advice, drink lots of water, go easy on the alcohol.
Landing
Landing is a very common problem that most of the people face. Here are some tips to make your landing smooth and hassle free.
Swallowing and yawning help get rid of the ear pressure, or even this technique can be followed: try opening your mouth and move you lower jaw far to the left and right and exhale at the same time.
Another method is "blowing" your nose while pinching it closed with two fingers. Then release your nose and open your mouth.
Some airlines give out sweets just prior to landing to help you swallow and get rid of the pressure in your ear.
If you have a congested nose after flu or something like it, take a nose spray on the flight. It will clear your nose in a few minutes, so use it shortly before landing.
After the Flight
When the aircraft reaches the gate there is often a mad rush to get up, get the luggage out and leave the plane. There is really no reason for this because, after leaving the plane, you have to wait for your checked-in baggage anyway.
When you collect your baggage, make sure you are at the right baggage claim. Most airports have a counter for oversized and unusual baggage like bikes or surfboards. Damaged bags will probably end up there, too.
Always book a hotel especially for the first two nights after your flight so that you can get over your tiredness and jet lag.
Sometimes, especially when arriving late at night, the best option is to get a room at an airport hotel. Especially when renting a car it can be a good idea to get the car the next morning, when you have slept a night in a real bed.
Planning your Trip:
Plan a 2 day break for relaxation after every 7-10 days of travelling, giving you time for a well-deserved rest and laundry!
While planning itineraries use a simple hub and spoke principle. Keep the major city as your base and plan two day trips to destinations near by where you could fly or drive in a taxi.
What to Pack:
A general rule to follow is to travel light as it will lessen the burden of carrying your luggage with you while travelling extensively. This will also give you enough of room to carry back souvenirs.
Along with your baggage it also helps to carry a Pocket Knife (Swiss knife) and a torch light. And if you're on a adventure holiday - don't forget mosquito repellent!
Budgeting for your trip:
This is simplified if you can get as much information as possible in advance. Remember to check if the information provided to you is current.
Also remember to carry a generous supply of small denominations for vendors, taxis and a host of little expenses that have a habit of cropping up.
Dining Out:
Metropolitan India offer a variety of dining options catering to a variety of tastes. Though vegetarianism is more prevalent in the South, you will find variety of cuisine to choose from, more in the metros. Tips are usually 10 percent of the charges
Shopping:
India is a rewarding terrain for the souvenir hunters, and most items here combine good design, marvelous color and elegant usefulness.
Visit the handicraft emporia run by state governments. You will find them in most cities. Here the prices are fixed and proceeds support artisans.
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