How to pick your first international travel location

So you’re ready to travel internationally, you’ve secured your passport and now what? You want to know the best place for someone to visit if they have not been outside of North America (or even their immediate state lines). It can feel pretty overwhelming when turning to the internet to help make some decisions on where to visit. Let’s chat through some factors to consider:

What’s your budget?

Budget is a factor in the sense that some cities are just categorically more expensive than others. There are also times when the currency exchange rate plays in our favor and makes some locations more affordable at times (hello Paris with the nearly 1:1 USD/EUR rates!)

Do you speak any other languages?

While not an absolute requirement to speak other languages it’s often a helpful skill to have (for reference, I don’t speak any other language and have learned needed phrases in Spanish and French). Language barriers are real, and play a role in traveling outside of US speaking countries. If you’re super nervous about travel and really excited to jump abroad, I always recommend visiting a country where English is the dominant language. Aside from the few that come to mind - England, Scotland, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada etc; there are 67 countries where English is spoken. Now keep in mind, it doesn’t mean it is the primary language AND you should always learn key phrases (it’s a courtesy) or carry your translation tools with you to help whenever possible (Google Translate is great!). Do not fear, with a few key words/phrases you can make your way through areas where English is not the dominant, and it’s a cool life experience to be in a space where we have a learning curve.

How many hours are you ok with riding on a plane?

Ok, nobody loooooves sitting on a plane for 9+ hours, but when you want to travel internationally there’s not much way around it. If sitting in a plane for a long time isn’t your jam, there are always opportunities for layovers to break up the trip. If you have the budget, there are also seats in different classes on the plane that allow for more leg room. Also, bathroom breaks are a great excuse to stand up and stretch the legs mid flight. Make yourself as comfortable as possible and settle in for the long haul, it’s so worth it when you arrive at your destination.

Is public transportation something you’re ok with utilizing?

Riding on trains, metro, buses and walking- all very much a way of life in a country that is not as car centric as North America. While renting a car is always a possibility there are additional factors like insurance, international drivers licenses and comfort of driving in a foreign country to consider. If you’re ok with public transport options, it can give you a budget friendly approach to travel. If you have the means to take a taxi or hire a driver- that’s incredible too! Sometimes a guided van/bus based tour experience is just the ticket for first time travelers and absolutely something I can help you plan!

How much vacation time do you plan to use, or for how long can you getaway?

Depending on where you are located, there are some countries that are easier to visit on a shortened timeline than others. Being based on the West coast, I’m in for the long flights to all locations aside from Canada and Mexico- and I plan at least 7 days. If you’ve only got 3-4 days, even the most amazing destination might not make sense for a short getaway. Always plan for at least 2 days for travel caps and then planning for on the ground activities in the middle.

What do you like to do?

Knowing what you like to do is key to make the most of your travel. I can make recommendations, but if you are not vibing with big metropolitan cities in your day to day life, that’s an important detail before suggestion locations. Are you a museum person, history, foodie, relaxation, beach or city? Start there and let’s narrow it down.

Wherever you choose, you’ll find something to love about the experience. When you’re ready to make that first trip happen, contact me and let’s work out all the details to make your trip Abroad with Ease.