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Part 3…Solo travel…Safety equipment (for couples and groups, too)…

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A pretty scene in the gardens at the Maui Tropical Plantation.
With considerable information regarding safety equipment and precautions for solo travelers, we’ve decided to extend this topic, including travel precautions and procedures, one more day for Part 4. Today, we’re touching on safety equipment for solo travelers (also applies to couples and groups). Please check back tomorrow for the final post in this series.

When you’re out exploring the world, safety is paramount. Here’s a curated list of essential safety equipment for travelers, covering a range of scenarios from urban adventures to off-the-beaten-path journeys:

1. Personal Safety

  • Travel Locks: A TSA-approved padlock for luggage and a portable door lock for added security in hotel rooms or rentals.
  • Money Belt or Anti-Theft Bag: Keeps your valuables secure with RFID-blocking and slash-resistant materials.
  • Personal Alarm: Compact and easy to use, a loud alarm can draw attention in emergencies.
  • Whistle: A simple, lightweight tool for alerting others if you’re in danger.

2. Navigation and Communication

  • Power Bank: A high-capacity portable charger ensures your phone stays powered for maps and emergency calls.
  • Multi-Band Travel Phone: This phone is compatible with local networks worldwide and equipped with emergency contact apps.
  • Offline Maps App: Preloaded maps help you navigate when connectivity is limited.

3. Health and Emergency Preparedness

  • First Aid Kit: Compact kits include bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, and pain relief. Consider travel-specific options for alleviating altitude sickness or diarrhea.
  • Water Purification System: A portable filter or purification tablets for trips to remote areas.
  • Travel Insurance Details: Keep digital and hard copies of your policy, including emergency assistance numbers.

4. Environmental Safety

  • Travel Flashlight or Headlamp: For poorly lit streets or power outages. A rechargeable option is eco-friendly.
  • Portable Fire Blanket: Useful in hostels or rentals with questionable fire safety.
  • Compact Weather Gear: Windproof, waterproof layers, and thermal blankets for extreme conditions.

5. Specialized Gear for Remote Travel

  • Satellite Phone or Locater Beacon: These are essential for off-grid adventures. Devices like Garmin inReach provide two-way communication and SOS.
  • Multi-Tool: A lightweight, versatile tool with knives, scissors, and screwdrivers for quick fixes.
  • Bug Repellent and Mosquito Net: Crucial for tropical or subtropical destinations.

6. Digital Safety

  • VPN Subscription: Protects your data on public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Backup Drive or Cloud Storage: Safeguard copies of your travel documents and photos.

Pro Tips

  • Do a Safety Check: Research your destination for common risks and prepare accordingly.
  • Learn Basic First Aid: It’s invaluable for yourself and others in emergencies.
  • Blend In: Avoid drawing attention with flashy gear or visible maps; looking like a local is safer.

Are you gearing up to head into the wilds of Africa? Let us know, and we can tailor some recommendations! With only 103 days remaining until we return to Africa, we are considering the precautions we will again make as we have in the past.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 20, 2014:

We picked up this star-shaped pod, taken from the ground, from the Autograph Tree at the Maui Tropical Plantation Maui. For more photos, please click here.

The Hindu holiday continues…Friendly locals greetings us on a walk…A cultural experience…Safety…

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This family was busy finishing this morning. The air was hazy from incense burning.

“Sightings on the Beach in Bali”

Fisherman returning from fishing all night and kid on a bike.

The sweet smell of incense permeates the air. The colorfully dressed locals greet us as we walk by. The elaborate decorations in the front yards, the music, the chanting and the non-stop sounds of roosters crowing made for an especially interesting walk this morning.

A lot of effort had gone into decorating homes, not unlike decorating for Christmas in other parts of the world.

There were twice as many festive lanterns and decorated shrines than we’d seen on yesterday’s walk and we could readily sense the celebration of this special holiday was in full bloom.

This religious service area was ready for the evening gathering.

As described in yesterday’s post, this is the holiday the Balinese Hindus, the majority of the population of Bali, are celebrating:

“Ganesh Chaturthi is a ten-day Hindu festival celebrated to honor the elephant-headed God Ganesha’s birthday. He is the younger son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Ganesha is known by 108 different names and is the Lord of arts and sciences and the deva of wisdom.”

These were newly placed last night or this morning.

How fortunate we feel to be here during these festivities. These gentle, kindly, peaceful people remind us of how the world could be, would be, with more citizens like them, with a commitment to honor their faith, their traditions, one another and their families, ensconced in a constant sense of harmony with the world.

When we asked Gede how the Hindu people relate to those of other faiths, he expressed enthusiastic assurance that peace and respect were forefront in their hearts and minds.

As we neared the end of the newly paved road, we saw this new decoration.

This is clearly illustrated to us as we tread upon their turf, strangers in their land, unfamiliar with their ways. Now, during our second two-month stay in Bali, we’re beginning to understand and embrace who these people are and the deep rooted principles that shape their often simple existence.

They are not violent people. It’s sad that in many countries there are those who defy the principles of centuries old philosophies of maintaining a stance of love, beauty and simplicity.

More decorations had been added over the past 24 hours.

We feel safe here. At times, at sunset, we may occasionally spot a shady looking character, meandering on the beach on foot or on a motorbike. We keep our doors locked and also find comfort in the fact that this small grouping of vacation homes has an all-night security guard on the premises who’s number we have readily available.

In Phuket, we noticed military police and security everywhere, even at the grocery store. Here in this remote area one seldom sees a police vehicle or any military presence. Of course, that doesn’t make this location exempt from crime. No place in the world can claim that unlikely status.

The umbrellas, the fabric cloths and hanging decoration create a beautiful scene.

In Denpasar, the capital city, there’s been a history of bombings along with a variety of terrorist attacks, not unlike in most large cities anywhere in the world. 

We’re often asked why we choose to live in remote areas, away from tourist venues, popular restaurants and sightseeing. The answer is simple for us since the beginning of our travels, next month coming up on four years. 

Offerings are placed in this cubicles as will be shown in more photos over the next few days.

We treasure our safety and well being. We prefer the quiet, easy existence of a life far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. It bring us joy and happiness to live in close proximity to the locals, to learn their ways, wander through their neighborhoods somehow feeling we are a part of it all.

Today, as yesterday, the walk brought us a revered sense of appreciation for the people of Bali, in this quiet beach town, as they celebrate a special holiday.

We pray for the safety and well being of all our reader/friends all over the world.

May peace be with you.

Photo from one year ago today, September 7, 2015:

Pond view at the Cattana Wetlands near Cairns, Australia. Final expenses for our three months in Australia were posted one year ago today, here.

At long last, we have sunshine…Transportation…Safety…All new photos…

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This morning’s sunny day.

Yesterday, we called Ratnesh to pick us up tomorrow at 11 am for a dual purpose; sightseeing earlier in the day, shopping after sightseeing. We’re excited to be getting out.

We’d hoped to get out on Tuesday, but on Monday, he called and canceled when he had a long-distance fare to Labasa, where another airport is located, a two hour drive each way from Savusavu.

When we first arrived, we offered to request his services for specific dates, and at times when it was most convenient for him with our schedule wide open. If he has a fare where he’ll make more than with us to various sites and the villages, we’ve encouraged him to take it.

View from our veranda to the three-unit vacation home as a part of this four-unit resort. The lawn guy is here today, mowing and trimming.

We hadn’t negotiated special rates with him when we arrived when the amounts he charges for trips to the village or for an hourly rate for sightseeing is so reasonable. As we’ve mentioned in the past, here are the costs of his services:

  • FJD $20, USD $9.39: Round trip to the village for shopping, dropping us off and picking us up when we call.  We add an additional FJD $10, USD $4.70 when he helps us carry our purchases to the house.
  • FJD $30, USD $14.09: Cost per hour for sightseeing. 

We’ve noticed when we do both, sightseeing and shopping on the same day, we’re charging for the trip to the village, plus the hourly travel rate. Ah, who’s to complain at these reasonable prices? If we’re gone for four hours at FJD $120, USD $56.35, it’s a very fair fare (no pun intended)!

When we recall paying for taxi fare in London in August 2014, when we visited the highly rated pub (Andover Arms) on two occasions, the round trip taxi fare was USD $50, GBP $32, FJD $106. In Fiji, that amount would give us almost four hours on the road!  

Colorful ocean view from our area.

Although four hours on the roads in Vanua Levu may sound exciting, on this remote island, it would be four hours of bumpy roads, dense greenery, and occasional ocean views, all of which we love and easily experience on shorter trips to specific destinations. We prefer aimlessly driving when we have a rental car, stopping as often as we’d like for photos and restroom breaks.

With the sun shining, we’re excited to get out more often, subject to the availability of the only driver in this village willing to tackle the steep road in this resort area. It would be impossible for us to walk down the long mountainous road. For mountain climbers and seriously fit hikers, it may not be a problem.

How easily we could feel trapped. But, long ago we decided, after realizing we’d need drivers in various countries, we accepted that there would be days we’d want to get out and weren’t able to do so, based on our driver’s availability. Sticking to the same driver or their designated co-driver has been important to us, particularly when safety has been an issue in several countries.

The bright blue of the bay is breathtaking from this elevation.

Upcoming in 46 days, when we fly to the next Fijian Island of Viti Levi, the larger main island, where we’ll stay for one more month, we’ll be renting a car at the Nadi Airport and driving two hours to our new location, again a private house. 

With high crime rates in the downtown Nadi area, when we booked Fiji long ago, we’d decided to stay in another more, remote location where the likelihood of crime is greatly reduced.

Many tourists stay in the Nadi area in resorts and hotels, generally insulated from criminal activities when on site. The risks for tourists escalates when out on the streets in the busy city, as we’ve been warned by the locals here who often travel to Nadi to visit family. Muggings, pickpocketing, and carjacking are not unusual.

Another ocean view from our area.

With our preferred choice of vacation homes as opposed to staying in hotels, we usually don’t have the safety net of on-site security as is often available in most hotels. Generally, one can feel relatively safe from crime in a hotel, although there are isolated exceptions.

Currently, we’re living in a resort but, in the only stand, alone vacation rental house on the property. Further up the hill behind us is a separate building with three apartments, including one penthouse type upscale unit on the top floor. Mario and Tayana’s private residence is off to the side as shown.

When Ratnesh picks us up, he pulls into the driveway of the three-unit building in this resort. The driveway near the steps down to our house below is too steep for stopping the vehicle, making getting in and out nearly impossible.

Junior is around during the day and Mario is on-site in his separate house to our left as we face the ocean. We feel totally safe and protected in this ideal location.

Criminal activity on this island of Vanua Levu is almost non-existent. When we’ve driven by the courthouse on several occasions, located on the edge of town, there are no cars in the parking lot. Most likely, they only open when they have a case. From what we hear, it’s a rare occasion.

Oceanfront view of Mario and Tatyana’s house, much larger than it appears in the photos.  We took this photo from the steep road.

The fact that we prefer living in smaller towns and villages in our travels has more to do with our lack of interest in crowds and the fact that we don’t shop other than for food and supplies as needed. We love the quaint charm and nature of small villages and the friendly, less harried lifestyle of their people. 

For the average tourist, staying in a more populous area in most countries provides endless opportunities to find that special item to bring back home, for oneself, and for gifts for family and friends. Also, easy access to restaurants is an important factor for tourists whereas, for us, it’s irrelevant.

Side view of Mario and Tatyana’s recently built house.

We don’t send our grandchildren trinkets from all over the world. Instead, we send gift cards or gifts that they’d like, not what we think they’d like from a foreign country. If we did, at this point, their bedrooms would be filled with useless touristy type items, eventually to be tossed away. 

Maybe we’re too practical in the minds of others. Then again, how practical is having no home, no stuff other than what fits into three suitcases, a duffel bag and a laptop bag and, changing countries and homes every few months or less?

Have a beautiful and meaningful day!

Photo from one year ago today, October 21, 2014:

We were entranced by this colorful Gold Dust Day Gecko, commonly seen in the Hawaiian Islands, particularly in Maui where we were living one year ago.  This gecko was located on the wall by the pool but, from time to time, we spotted them inside the condo, certainly no big deal. Generally, geckos are harmless if not annoying, leaving droplets of white poop and making peculiar noises. In Fiji, we see new gecko poop in the house every few days. For more details, please click here.

Laugh fest last night…Safety on other islands is different than in Kauai…

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This Bird of Paradise is the best example we’ve seen of a bloom appearing to be a bird’s head.

Last night’s dinner party at Alice and Travis’ house with Louise and Steve was more fun than we ever could have imagined. The stories, the laughter, and the bantering back and forth was indescribable. All I know is that by the end of the evening our faces and bellies hurt from laughing so hard and so long.

I drove home. Tom, who rarely drinks alcohol had his fair share last night, and although I don’t drink for health reasons I too felt intoxicated from the great evening.

Thanks to reader Annie, this is Ixora.

How did we get so lucky to meet so many fabulous people? And how hard is it going to be to leave exactly three weeks from today? 

It’s funny how we never have trouble leaving a place. Instead, we find it difficult to leave living beings behind, both human and animal. 

This morning Birdie saw me wander into the kitchen while he sat atop his favorite tree. Immediately, he flew to the lanai railing and began singing his song as shown in this video (in case you missed it). For a more professional Northern Cardinal video presented by Cornell Labs, please click here.

Nature has a way of creating flawless symmetry as in this variety of Plumeria.

We’ll miss him and his significant other both of whom we’ve interacted several times each day. He’s our first sign of life each morning and last, just before dark as we dine at the table beside the sliding screen door. While we’re dining, he sings. How can we not miss this magical display of life, however tiny he and she maybe?

And the people? Ah, how can we not miss them? 

We’ve found that somehow we are able to build strong relationships with people we meet in our travels in relatively short periods of time. In our old lives, it seemed that building new friendships transpired over a period of years, not months.

The buds on flowers such as this Plumeria (often used for making leis) become beautiful in themselves.

Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that many of those we meet are on the move like us in one way or another. Most of the friends we’ve made here in Kauai came from other locals for example Louise and Steve are originally from the UK.

Alice and Travis are from the state of Washington, having moved here permanently five years ago. This is the case with most people we meet. They, like us, came from somewhere else, longing for the lifestyle only Hawaii or similar island living has to offer.

Volcanic rock is also seen along the shore in some areas of Kauai.

As for future islands on our upcoming itinerary which includes both Fiji and Bali, we have few expectations that life on those islands will be comparable to living in Hawaii.

Some have mentioned that both Fiji and Bali can be rough in areas with political unrest, poverty, and strife. We never promised ourselves nor expected that everywhere we live will be easy or feel as luxurious as living in Princeville has been these past months.

As the tide rolls in the waves pound against the lava rocks.

We easily recall where we’ve lived in the past, in the heat and humidity with insects everywhere, crawling about our feet and buzzing about our heads. Last night, we mentioned that we’d lived outdoors in Kenya on the open (no screens) veranda for three months when there was no indoor living room, lounge, or salon.  here were two bedrooms, one bath, a small galley kitchen with a small hallway connecting them.

Each day the temperature was in the high 80’s to low 100’s with humidity so awful that the zippers on our luggage turned green. Tom used WD40 (Kenya’s version) to release the zippers each week to ensure they’d work when we left. 

From what I can determine online, this is a coot.  If any of our readers have any suggestions on this breed, please post a comment or send an email.

The flies and mosquitoes were rampant and every day I had to lather up with a DEET (below 30%), the only product that would keep me from being bit.  

The insects and the heat were equally bad in South Africa but, by the time we got to Marloth Park, we were accustomed to being outdoors all day. There, we had two living rooms inside the house and yet we stayed outdoors on the veranda (again no screens) all day amid the heat and insects, batting off the flies, keeping an eye out for snakes and poisonous things.

This is a hala plant. Please see this link for details.

After those total of six-month experiences during which neither of us whined or complained, we’re thinking that Fiji and Bali won’t be any more difficult and most likely will be somewhat easier. 

As for the political climate in both of these countries, the properties are located far from the busy cities where most of the danger lurks. Plus, in Fiji, we’ll be living in a resort with managers and security on the premises. In Bali, we’ll have a house staff on the premises. Both scenarios put our minds at ease.

There are many bath and candle shops throughout the islands comparable to this shop in Kilauea. With the scent of flowers blooming year-round, it’s not surprising that many small businesses are centered around scented soaps and candles.

Worry?  No, we’re not worried. We’ve come to accept that there is no place in the world that is entirely safe from crime, natural disasters, and political unrest. We’d only need to watch the US news in the past week, months, or years to realize that nowhere is entirely safe.

We can’t live this life in fear of what could happen. We choose to live this life in love with each other, in love with what we see in front of us; the people, the wildlife, and the beauty. 

The former movie theatre in Kilauea is now a church offering free lunches every Sunday after the service.

That, dear readers, drives us on with the hope and the passion for an extraordinary and safe experience anywhere in the world we find ourselves.

Tonight is our final Full Moon Party to be held at the Makai Golf Course pool house.  Today, I’ll make our pu pu to bring, Hawaiian flavored chicken wings (a few without the sauce for me), and off we’ll go to yet another fun evening on the island. We love island living. Stay tuned. Much more to come.

                                               Photo from one year ago today, May 2, 2014:

In the Medina, aka the Big Square in Marrakech, vendors would often neatly place their products on the ground on a blanket expecting passersby to negotiate. Within a short period, this display would turn into a messy pile as the vendors were busy selling the item. At this time, one year ago, we were less than two weeks from leaving Morocco, chomping at the bit to be back on the move. For details, please click here.

Security loaded on the ship while out to sea…Gulf of Aden, here we come…

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Tonight we enter the Gulf of Aden.

Yesterday morning as we were reminded of yet another time change to be effective at 11:30 am, our Captain Fleming announced that a boat would be coming to ship around 4:00 PM to drop off “security equipment” for our upcoming remaining three days through the Gulf of Aden.

Tom was determined to see this event occur as was I.  Watching the clock throughout the day, we were pleased when the Captain’s voice sounded over the loudspeaker as he explained that the boat would be arriving soon and the ship would be slowed down accordingly.

It’s helpful for worried passengers to be alerted to such events.  Captain Fleming has been conscientious about making such announcements in an effort to diminish fear and its resulting rumors.  For us, we wanted to see this firsthand in order to take photos. 

Our view at the bow of the ship as the “security boat: approached.

Unsure which side of the ship the “security boat” would deliver the “security equipment” we headed for the bow of the ship where there is row of viewing windows to the bridge. If we watched the officers in the command area, we’d be able to see which direction they were looking through their binoculars.

Peering into the bridge, we had a clear view of the blue radar screens, noting three objects, one on the port side forward, and two on the starboard side forward.  Wondering which would be the delivering boat, we waited patiently while Tom, using his trusty Swarovski binoculars kept a lookout.

Around 3:30 PM, we saw the delivery boat approaching our ship approaching dead ahead, to finally veer to the port side.  We were on the move!  We wanted to get as close as possible and yet not so close that we couldn’t get a good shot.

Each of us had a camera, old and new, in our hands.  Much to my frustration and unbeknown to me, one of the settings on the new camera we had changed in error, preventing me from getting any good shots.  Luckily, Tom had the old camera and was able to take the photos we’ve posted today.

As crew members hung onto the “security boat,” two uniformed soldiers got on board our ship, each carrying two large black cases as shown in the photos. Captain Fleming had referred to these black rectangular boxes as “security supplies.”  Duh?

When asking an officer about the contents of these black boxes, it was obvious to us that his response was rehearsed, “Oh, those are night goggles, binoculars and such.”  Why wouldn’t a large ship such as ours, Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas, keep night goggles on board along with all their other such equipment?  Why were two soldiers dropped off?  To use night goggles?  Hardly.

The “security boat” as he approached our ship.

We’re assuming that the ship staff, in an attempt to avoid fear and panic, have been instructed to report the contents of the black cases contained “security equipment.”  We understand their reasons to lie to us and in essence, respect it. 

After a hysterical time at dinner last night at a table for eight with non-stop laughing, we meandered back to our cabin, smiles on our faces from yet another enjoyable evening at a “shared” table.  One couple was from Australia, another from England and a third from Florida, whom we’ve made plans to meet up with again tonight.

When we returned to our cabin around 10:30 pm, our room darkened as instructed, drapes tightly pulled, we settled into bed.  Minutes after dosing off, I awakened to a sensation of a bright light filtering through the crack in the drapes.

As the boat took off, after unloading the two security personnel and the black boxes.
Awakening Tom, he bolted out of bed, running to the window to peek out. Seeing the light, he cautiously opened the balcony door only to discover that the cabin next to us had not followed security protocol by having their drapes wide open and lights turned on.

What’s with people?  It was a simple requirement, easy to follow, affecting the safety of everyone on board.  It’s the same mentality of guests who become ill while cruising and don’t bother to stay in their cabins during the infectious period, infecting everything they touch resulting in the illness of many others.

This morning at 8:00 am, after our good night’s sleep, Captain Fleming’s voice once again blared on the loudspeakers, thanking us all for our cooperation, reporting a safe uneventful night. 

After the boat departed, we found our way to an observation deck and shot this photo of the pool area, as it thinned out in the late afternoon.  (This shot was taken after I figured out the incorrect setting on the new camera.  Bear with us, as we learn to each use it properly).

Hopefully, expectantly and most likely, we’ll hear such announcements each morning as we continue on our journey to Dubai, to arrive next Tuesday.

We’ll keep you updated as we continue on and on, and on.

Part 1…32 tips for making a long-haul flight more comfortable…

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A hornbill brought a treat to her reflection in the kitchen window.

With more dear friends, Karen and Rich,  coming to visit us from the US in July, we started thinking about how the flight can be more comfortable for those traveling long distances. Today, and tomorrow, we’re sharing this article from Travel and Leisure online magazine;

“32 Tips for Making a Long-haul Flight More Comfortable…

These in-flight hacks will help you enjoy the journey and feel more relaxed upon arrival.

By Chris Heasman

Whether you’re taking a seven-hour trip across the pond to Europe or embarking on the nearly 19-hour odyssey from New York City to Singapore, a long-haul flight can be tedious and exhausting. The nuisances of time-consuming air travel can range in severity from mildly inconvenient (annoying seatmates, for instance) to downright dangerous (developing a blood clot on a plane is no joke). To make a big journey more bearable, try to maintain your typical routine, stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and pack an extra snack or two.

Here are 32 (the balance posted tomorrow) of our favorite tips to make long flights as trouble-free and comfortable as possible.

Book your flight early to secure a good seat.

The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing your favorite seat, whether it’s by the window to enjoy the scenery or at the aisle for easy access to the lavatory. However, please note that airlines may change your seat without prior notice.

Consider a seat in the back of the plane.

Your favorite seat probably isn’t in the back of the plane. It isn’t quiet back there, tends to have little leg room, and means you’re the last off the plane when it lands. However, there are perks to choosing a back seat. If you’re flying with an airline like Southwest that doesn’t have assigned seats, you might have better luck claiming a row to yourself or at least an empty seat next to you in the back. Additionally, being in the back allows you to observe which rows don’t fill up ahead of you, so you can claim one of the emptier ones after everyone has taken their seat.

Birds were enjoying the birdbath in our garden.

Use airline miles to upgrade.

You’ll thank yourself when you’re sipping Champagne while reclining in first class after using miles to upgrade your seat. And if you don’t have the miles, this might be the time to splurge for a superior first- or business-class seat. Even upgrading to premium economy will give you priority check-in, extra legroom, and comfortable seats.

Or an angle for a free upgrade.

Arrive early, dress nicely, travel alone, and put on your most winning smile for the best chance at success. Your odds of scoring a last-minute upgrade are better if you have elite status with the airline. Try to carefully time when you ask for a flight upgrade to increase your odds as well.

Adjust your sleep pattern before your flight to ensure optimal rest.

In the days leading up to your flight, adjust your sleep patterns; a few 4 a.m. or 7 p.m. bedtimes should suffice, depending on the time of day you’ll be flying. If your flight is during the day, be well-rested before you fly. If it’s a red-eye, arrive at the airport tired. Trust us on this, though: staying awake for 24 hours before your trip to balance out jet lag doesn’t work.

The word in the bush is that Nyalas Nina and Norman had a baby a few days ago, across the road from us. We’ll be watching for her and her new baby.

Dress comfortably.

Keep it loose and comfortable, and remember to bring layers for when the temperature drops. A cardigan or zip-up sweatshirt is always a good option to have on hand, as you can easily put it on or take it off depending on the cabin temperature. Clothes with a bit of stretch, like men’s sweatpants or women’s leggings, can also help you move around more comfortably.

De-stress before you board.

You don’t want to spend your whole flight buzzing about all the things you have to do or what you might have forgotten. Carve out some time before your trip to sit down with a nice breakfast. Go to the gym. Read a book. Go for a walk. It’s important to relax before it’s time to fly.

Check in early.

The worst start to a long-haul journey is to panic your way through a busy airport, arriving at the gate sweaty and frazzled — or even to miss your flight. Plan to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check your bags and proceed through security.

Don’t overpack your items.

You’ll need more for a long-haul flight than you would for a short one, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to overfill your bag with unnecessary extras. Keep only the essentials in your item so they’re always easy to find and within reach.

Bring your pillow.

A travel pillow is a staple carry-on item for long-distance travelers. Almost every airport sells them, and looking a little ridiculous with one around your neck is a small price to pay for arriving at your destination without a crick in your neck. Please pay attention to your airline’s restrictions to ensure it doesn’t have to be packed inside your item.

These white-crested helmet shrikes were checking their reflection in the kitchen window.

Wear noise-canceling headphones.

Noise-canceling headphones help block out annoying airplane noise and loud passengers, allowing you to zone out with a riveting podcast or a favorite playlist. If you don’t have headphones, a pair of good old-fashioned earplugs will also help.

Buckle your seat belt over your blanket.

If you plan to sleep with a blanket during your flight, ensure your buckled seatbelt is still visible. In the event of turbulence, the seatbelt light will activate, and flight attendants may circulate throughout the cabin to ensure that everyone is properly buckled up. If they can’t see your seat belt, they will wake you up. For safety reasons and to avoid “airplane ear,” don’t sleep through takeoff or landing.

Pack an eye mask.

An eye mask is beneficial if you’re flying during the day, or if you want to catch some shut-eye before the cabin lights are dimmed. It’s often an airline freebie in basic amenity kits on international flights, even in economy, but typically not on longer domestic flights.

Try to relax.

Do whatever it takes — meditate, listen to calming music, or practice some breathing exercises. Not only will it help you sleep more easily, but it’s also good for your psyche, especially if flying makes you nervous.

Bring a travel blanket, not a regular blanket.

Please don’t bring anything too thick (remember, it must fit in your carry-on), but ensure your travel blanket is sufficient to keep you warm when the plane’s air conditioning is at full blast.

This band of mongooses visits almost daily for paloney and meat scraps.

Download movies onto your tablet or laptop for backup.

In-flight entertainment systems are not always reliable. They sometimes fail, and when they do, you’ll be glad to have something to do, watch, or listen to in reserve.”

One vital tip for travel, especially for seniors, is to wear compression stockings on your long-haul flight to reduce the risk of blood clots. You can purchase these at a low cost through this link. I bought and wear them, not only on long flights but at other times when I know I will be sitting for extended periods.

Typically, flights from the US to South Africa last for 24-40 hours, most of which is spent sitting. It’s essential to get up and walk around the plane (when there is no turbulence) to diminish the risk of blood clots, stiff joints, and painful backs and hips.

We will continue this list in tomorrow’s post with more suggestions. Please check back for more.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 27, 2015:

Golden-tipped Anthurium, spotted in Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

Ten best Spring Break destinations in the US…

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This was the terrain on the treacherous walk down to the Queen’s Bath in Kauai, Hawaii, ten years ago.

We’ve never posted a specific article about Spring Break, although we’ve mentioned it from time to time. As young adults and families start planning their Spring Break vacations, here is an article from Travel and Leisure that may help determine locations that appeal to you.

We are uninterested in crowded venues, so we’ve never chosen to visit popular Spring Break locations. But many others love the excitement and fun of this festive time of the year and can’t wait to arrive at their chosen locale. The following are all US-based locations, but many other countries offer similar venues.

“10 Best Spring Break Destinations in the U.S.

From the South Carolina coast to a Utah mountain town, here are the best places to go for a spring vacation.

By

Patricia Doherty
This Canadian Resort is the Ultimate Wilderness Escape

Hilton Head, South Carolina
Photo: Margaret W/Getty Images

Depending on your travel style, defining the best spring break destinations in the United States is a personal choice. Whether you’re a family with one week to make the most of or a couple looking for a sunny reset after a dreary winter, we’ve got spring break vacation ideas for everyone in almost every region of the country.

  • Best for families: Destin, Florida
  • Best for a quiet spring break: Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
  • Best tourist destination: Palm Springs, California
  • Best for couples: Valley of the Sun, Arizona
  • Best beach destination: Hilton Head, South Carolina

Read on to see the 10 best spring break destinations in America.

Destin, Florida

Destin and Miramar Beaches 2022 Florida July Drone Aerial Beach Gulf of mexico
WanderDrone/Getty Images

Destin (along with Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island) is a popular spring break destination for families on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Daily high temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s make the beach town a prime spot for boating, fishing, and relaxing on the fine white-sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle. Henderson Beach State Park is the perfect place to enjoy the calm waters and thirty-foot-high dunes. Still, you can take the adventure further with a snorkeling or parasailing excursion with a local company like Pelican Adventures. Bring the kids to the boardwalk to try out the zip line or rock-climbing wall at HarborWalk Adventures if they still have energy.

Where to stay: Choose from a variety of accommodations, from campgrounds in the state park to one of Destin’s best resorts, such as the luxurious and kid-friendly Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa, which offers multi-room condos perfect for week-long stays.

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
Logan Mock-Bunting/Getty Images

One of the best beaches in North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach offers water sports like surfing and kayaking, beautiful nature, and coastal history. Even if it’s not swimming weather just yet, you can still enjoy being on the water with a sightseeing cruise with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours. Fishing is also popular on Johnnie Mercers Pier, where you’ll find a tackle shop and restaurants, or take a day to learn more about the area at the Cape Fear Museum in the historic district of nearby Wilmington.

Where to stay: You could rent a beach house or get an ocean-view room at an iconic local hotel like the Blockade Runner Beach Resort.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is a desert resort city in Riverside County, California.DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

Warm weather arrives early in the Southern California desert, making Palm Springs an attractive destination for spring breakers. Go to the top of Mt. San Jacinto on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before visiting The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Take a day to get out in nature with a hike along the Araby Trail, or stay in town and try some of the delicious dining options like Spencer’s, with its award-winning terrace, or Trio, an upscale Italian restaurant in the Design District.

Where to stay: A newly updated hotel with a strong midcentury modern aesthetic, Life House Palm Springs offers an incredibly stylish setting that embodies the classic Palm Springs vibe.

Valley of the Sun, Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona
Getty Images

“The Valley of the Sun” is a well-deserved nickname for the Greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Chandler. Even in the spring, this part of the Sonoran Desert sees temperatures in the high 70s and 80s. Lounge by the pool, take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard on the Salt River or go for a romantic hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions. Couples can make time together at one of the fantastic spas at Scottsdale’s best hotels.

Where to stay: In Scottsdale, the Mountain Shadows Resort is a hotel with stunning views, large rooms, and a historic guestbook, as seen in vintage photos of celebrity visitors like John Wayne and Elizabeth Tayor.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina
Margaret W/Getty Images

Hilton Head Island attracts beach bums from all over the Midwest and East Coast with its 12 miles of Atlantic shoreline. Its waters are ideal for spotting sea life with Dolphin Discoveries or collecting shells at Driessen Beach Park. There’s rarely a shortage of things to do in Hilton Head, thanks to multiple golf resorts and over 60 miles of cycling trails. The weather is warm, with highs in the 60s and 70s, but not too hot to spend entire days outside visiting the family-friendly Coligny Beach or picking up a pole and going fishing at Fish Haul Creek Park.

Where to stay: Consider The Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa, a grand hotel with multiple pools, private beach access, and the Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club right next door.

Park City, Utah

Park City, Utah
Getty Images

Not everyone is looking for a beach vacation, so for the powder seeker or mountain lover, Park City charms with its artsy city center and silver-mining history. Ski season typically lasts through mid-April at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley. But with spring temperatures in the 50s and 60s, it should also be warm enough — if you’ve got the right layers — for hiking, mountain biking, and strolling along Main Street. Families with kids will be happy to know there’s bowling, ice skating, zip lining, tubing, and more to keep little ones entertained.

Where to stay: Depending on where you decide to ski, you can splurge on a room at one of the resorts the Waldorf-Astoria Park City for Park City Mountain or the St. Regis Deer Valley, two Utah resorts most loved by our readers.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon
Danita Delimont/Getty Images

Early spring weather is in the chilly mid-50s at Cannon Beach, but it’s still a fun time to explore tide pools and watch seabirds. Every April, the resident puffins return to their roost on Haystack Rock after about eight months away. The beach is dog-friendly so your pet can enjoy playing on the sand or joining you for a hike. When you want a break from the chilly shore, you shop the boutiques in the charming town. Secure your restaurant reservations for the waterfront Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge or pop into the tap room at Public Coast Brewing Co.

Where to stay: There’s a great selection of hotels here, including luxurious oceanfront properties, vacation home rentals and campsites. The Stephanie Inn is a lovely property with rooms overlooking the beach, and guests can come together for afternoon wine tastings.

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island, Texas
Getty Images

One of the best towns in Texas, this barrier island resort town off the southern Gulf coast is popular among college students and families alike because of its warm weather, water sports, and nature. Paddleboards, kayaks, and Jet Skis are available for rent from various shops or you can try kiteboarding with Air Padre Kiteboarding. Kids can learn about some of South Padre Island’s most-loved residents at Sea Turtle, Inc., a sea turtle rehabilitation and education center, while the college-student party crowd will be found dancing and drinking to DJ sets at bars like Louie’s Backyard.

Where to stay: There are many large resorts at this sring break destination, but if you want something cozier and maybe a little off the beaten path, you can try the Lighthouse Boutique Hotel.

New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana
Getty Images

The Big Easy is known as a party destination, but families with kids should keep New Orleans on their spring break radar, too. The historic city has an aquarium, zoo, and several standout museums like The National World War II Museum that mix entertainment and education. In the French Quarter, you can get an education in cocktails at the Sazerac House and even though you might miss Fat Tuesday by a few weeks, you can still see the floats year-round at Mardi Gras World.

Where to stay: Among the best hotels in New Orleans, the luxuriously quirky Maison Metiér puts hospitality first with an outstanding breakfast spread and unique design touches.

Atlanta

Coca-Cola world against the Atlanta skyline
Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

With so much to do in Atlanta, you don’t need a beach to keep you busy when the pleasant spring weather rolls in. The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States and features sharks, dolphins, sea lions, seabirds, and more. The World of Coca-Cola offers tastings and other experiences in the city where the soda company is headquartered. The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame will delight university students, and there’s a Lego Discovery Center for kids.

Where to stay: After exploring the city, the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta is an excellent hotel to retreat from the bustle with its heated saltwater pool and fantastic Italian steakhouse.”

Whatever location you choose, it is imperative to be on guard, protecting your safety and security, as you would in any country. When visiting pubs and nightclubs, guard your drinks with sealed lids with a straw if possible since, especially during this time, many people are drugged unknowingly while their drinks are unattended. Pickpocketing is rampant. Do not leave a public venue with a stranger; always remain in public areas. Observe fire exits and easy access to the outdoors in all public places.

In any case, have a safe and wonderful time wherever you travel.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 18, 2015:

Queen’s Bath in Kauai looks relatively innocuous but is known to be deadly. Many swimmers have died here because of the unexpected surf sweeping them away, especially in the rougher winter months. Getting down to the location we tackled is a very rough walk. This is the only photo we “borrowed.” All other photos are ours. Tom didn’t take the camera with him when he went down the final steps to the water while I waited behind. For more photos, please click here.

A great place to cook!…Preferred features in vacation/holiday homes…

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This kitchen is much larger than it looks in this photo. We enjoy preparing meals here.

Nothing is more important to me while living in a holiday home than a good kitchen, fully stocked with ample space for prepping ingredients, cooking meals, and cleaning up. Most often, about 30% of the properties we rent don’t have what we’d consider a “good working kitchen,” while the others range from adequate to exceptional.

The kitchen at the condo here in Lake Las Vegas is, without a doubt, exceptional. Its two working areas, including the space near the stove and refrigerator, provide a good working area, and the center island where the sink and dishwasher are located, with the comfortable space between them, couldn’t be more perfect.

I spend most of my prep time using the heavy wooden cutting board on the island, close to the sink, and less time at the stove, actually cooking. Most meals we make are cooked in the oven or on the top of the stove using the amazing skillet I purchased from Amazon last year. That skillet will be joining my luggage, even at the cost of dumping clothing to remain in the allowed baggage weight.

I told Tom I’d give up clothes for that pan and my big sharp knife (and its sharpener), which means more to me than anything I might wear.

Over the years of world travel, we’ve learned what means the most to us is when we rent a holiday home. Here is the list of features that we and most travelers seek. When travelers look for vacation homes, their needs and preferences often vary depending on the purpose of their trip, the group they’re traveling with, and their style. However, there are several standard features that most travelers value:

1. Location, Location, Location

  • Proximity to Attractions: Near beaches, city centers, mountains, or other major attractions.
  • Safe and Walkable Areas: Walking safely to local cafes, shops, or markets is essential.
  • Scenic Views: Homes with stunning views of nature or cityscapes are always a draw.

2. Comfortable Living Spaces

  • Spacious Layouts: Space for everyone to spread out is key for families or groups.
  • Cleanliness and Hygiene: A spotless home is non-negotiable.
  • Quality Furnishings: Comfortable beds, cozy sofas, and appealing decor enhance the stay.

3. Well-Equipped Kitchens

  • Travelers often prefer to cook meals to save money or accommodate dietary preferences. A kitchen stocked with essentials is a big plus.

4. Reliable Wi-Fi and Connectivity

  • High-speed internet is crucial for remote workers, digital nomads, or families with tech-savvy kids.

5. Entertainment Options

  • Streaming services, smart TVs, board games, books, or even gaming consoles for indoor fun.

6. Outdoor Spaces

  • Balcony, Patio, or Garden: Ideal for morning coffee, evening relaxation, or outdoor dining.
  • Pool or Hot Tub: A luxurious touch many travelers seek.

7. Laundry Facilities

  • Long-term travelers or families especially appreciate a washer and dryer.

8. Family-Friendly Features

  • Amenities like cribs, high chairs, toys, or safety gates are highly valued for families with kids.

9. Pet-Friendly Options

  • Increasingly, travelers are bringing their pets along, so homes that allow pets and have fenced yards are in demand.

10. Transportation Convenience

  • Access to parking or proximity to public transportation.

11. Sustainability Features

  • Eco-conscious travelers may look for homes with solar panels, recycling facilities, or energy-efficient appliances.

12. Local Recommendations

  • Hosts providing a guidebook with tips on local attractions, dining, and activities add a personal touch.

13. Safety and Security

  • Features like secure locks, alarms, or a safe for valuables give peace of mind.

14. Unique Experiences

  • Unique architecture, historic charm, or a quirky theme can make the stay memorable.

Travelers want a home-away-from-home that enhances their experience, offering comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury or local charm. The order of preference may change for us depending on the uniqueness of any given property, allowing us to forego some requirements.

Be well

Photo from ten years ago today, January 2, 2015:

A picnic area in Lava Tree Park on the Big Island wasn’t busy. For more photos, please click here.

New rules for renting a holiday/vacation home in Italy…

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This hill in Boveglio, Italy, near our 300-year-old stone holiday home, was much steeper in person than it appears in this photo. See the post here.

Many of our readers write that they plan to travel to Italy soon. The following information is essential for those traveling soon or at some point in the future.

We spent three months in a holiday home in Boveglio, Italy, in 2013 when most of these regulations were not in place. Please share this post with friends and family members who have mentioned they are heading to Italy to stay at a holiday or vacation home.

From Travel and Leisure Magazine today:

“Checking Into an Italy Airbnb or Short-term Rental Just Got a Bit More Complicated

The country has banned lockboxes for Airbnb and other short-term rentals.

By Michael Cappetta is a travel writer with over 10 years of experience in journalism and television news.
 Published on December 4, 2024

Visitors to Italy will now have an extra step in their Airbnb check-in process as the country has banned lockboxes for home rentals.

According to Italy’s Interior Ministry, as reported by CNN, a ban on lockboxes and automated entry systems has been imposed for Airbnb and short-term rentals. With the ban in place, guests using home-sharing or other services will now need keys the old-fashioned way: personally meeting the property owner to get the keys rather than entering a code or using a key lock box to gain entry.

“The need has arisen to implement stringent measures aimed at preventing risks to public order and safety in relation to the possible housing of dangerous persons and persons linked to criminal or terrorist organizations,” Italy’s Police Chief Vittorio Pisani said in a notice obtained by news service AFP via Barron’s.

The lock box was easy for hosts and guests to share keys, especially for guests arriving overnight due to a late-night train or flight. The new rules are designed to increase safety and security by verifying the home occupant during the reservation.

However, in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure, Airbnb says they take safety and security seriously and that the self-check-in options, which include keypad and lock boxes, make it easier for guests and hosts. 

“While we remain committed to promoting responsible hosting and ensuring that our platform continues to offer safe and enjoyable experiences for everyone, we look forward to working with the Italian government on solutions that help address local safety concerns while meeting the needs of our hosts and guests community,” Airbnb shared with T+L.

Renting holiday homes in Italy has long been a cherished experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the country’s history, landscapes, and culture. However, recent regulatory updates aim to balance the booming tourism industry with preserving local communities, heritage sites, and housing availability. These changes are crucial for property owners and tourists to understand, as they bring new requirements and responsibilities for renting holiday accommodations in Italy.”

Additional Rules for Holiday Rentals in Italy

1. Registration and Identification Codes

One of the most significant updates is the requirement for property owners to register holiday rentals with local authorities. After registration, each property is assigned a unique identification code called Codice Identificativo di Struttura (CIS). This code must be displayed on all advertisements and listings, whether online or in traditional media.

The CIS system is designed to ensure transparency and accountability. It helps authorities monitor compliance with tax and safety regulations while combating illegal rentals. For travelers, it offers assurance that the property they book is legitimate and meets the required standards.

2. Short-Term Rental Limits

Some Italian cities, particularly those grappling with overtourism, have introduced restrictions on short-term rentals. For instance, Venice, Florence, and Rome now have zoning regulations and caps on the number of days a property can be rented out each year.

In Venice, property owners in the historic center face stricter controls, including a limit of 120 rental days annually for non-primary residences. The aim is to protect the city’s fragile ecosystem and reduce the exodus of residents due to rising housing costs.

3. Health and Safety Compliance

Holiday rental properties must adhere to stringent health and safety standards. This includes ensuring fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, are in place and that the property meets hygiene requirements. Owners must also provide clear emergency instructions and maintain appropriate insurance coverage.

These measures enhance safety and create a more reliable tourist holiday rental experience. Owners who fail to comply risk hefty fines and the suspension of their rental license.

4. Tourist Tax (Tassa di Soggiorno)

While Tassa di Soggiorno is not new, enforcement has intensified. This nightly tax, varying by city and property type, must be collected by property owners and reported to local authorities. Travelers should be prepared to pay this additional fee, often collected in cash upon arrival.

Failure to collect or remit the tourist tax can result in significant penalties for property owners. Transparent communication with guests about this fee is now mandatory and must be clearly outlined in rental agreements.

5. Platform Accountability

Online rental platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com are now subject to stricter oversight in Italy. These platforms must verify that listed properties have the required CIS and comply with local laws. Failure to do so can result in fines for both the platform and the property owner.

This means greater reliability for renters when booking through major platforms, as non-compliant properties are likely to be removed from listings.

6. Promoting Sustainable Tourism

Italy’s new regulations align with broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism. Local governments encourage property owners to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient appliances, waste recycling programs, and water conservation measures.

Properties implementing these practices may receive incentives or recognition, providing added value for environmentally conscious travelers.

Impact on Travelers and Property Owners

The updated rules enhance safety, reliability, and transparency in the rental process for travelers. They also contribute to preserving the cultural and historical integrity of popular destinations, ensuring a more authentic experience. However, these regulations might slightly increase costs due to compliance requirements and tourist taxes.

Property owners face more administrative work and potential costs associated with compliance. Yet, these measures also level the playing field by curbing illegal rentals and ensuring all operators meet the same standards.

Preparing for Your Italian Holiday

Whether you’re booking a Tuscan villa, a Roman apartment, or a seaside retreat in Puglia, be mindful of these regulatory changes. Verify that the property has a CIS code, understand the applicable tourist tax, and choose accommodations that align with sustainable practices.

For property owners, investing in compliance avoids legal pitfalls and enhances the appeal of their rentals to conscientious travelers. These rules reflect Italy’s commitment to balancing its thriving tourism industry with the well-being of its communities, ensuring the dolce vita remains accessible for generations to come.

Although this information may not be relevant to many of our readers, it illustrates the importance of investigating rental rules and regulations for any stay in any country.
Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, December 5, 2014:

Numerous power poles are located in the path of the lava flow in Pahoa, where we were staying with family for Christmas, covered in fire retardant materials to prevent the lava flow from destroying the power to the area, which apparently worked well. For more photos, please click here.

Part 4…Solo travel…Safe travel for singles…

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The scenery in Maui is exquisite.

There may be some redundancy from recent posts regarding world travel safety, but we didn’t want to miss a thing if we could.

An urgent warning: Singles have been brutally attacked and murdered when meeting a stranger in a nightclub. Do not leave a nightclub with a person you’ve just met. If you want to pursue a relationship with someone you’ve met, arrange a daytime get-together in a busy public place for a beverage or a meal. Do not go to any secluded spot with the individual. Do not go hiking alone or with a stranger(s). Meet with the person only in groups of people you know and trust. If your instincts tell you to run…run as fast as you can!!!

Traveling solo worldwide can be a transformative experience, but prioritizing safety is critical to ensuring your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here are some practical and emotional safety precautions to consider:

Pre-Trip Preparation

  1. Research Destinations:
    • Learn about the cultural norms, political stability, and common scams.
    • Check travel advisories for regions you’re visiting.
  2. Share Your Itinerary:
    • Keep family or close friends informed about your plans.
    • Use apps like Google Maps to share your live location when heading to new places.
  3. Travel Insurance:
    • Invest in comprehensive insurance covering medical emergencies, theft, and trip interruptions.
  4. Backup Documents:
    • Carry digital and physical copies of your passports, visas, and IDs and store them securely in a cloud service.
  5. Emergency Contacts:
    • Write down local emergency numbers, the contact information for your embassy, and your family’s information on your phone.

On the Road

  1. Trust Your Instincts:
    • If something feels off, don’t second-guess yourself. Whether it’s a person or a situation, walking away is okay.
  2. Stay Connected:
    • Regularly check in with someone you trust. Apps like WhatsApp or Messenger are great for quick updates.
  3. Blend In:
    • Avoid flashy jewelry and expensive gear. Dress to match local customs to avoid unnecessary attention.
  4. Secure Your Belongings:
    • Use anti-theft bags and locks. Keep your essentials (passport, cash, cards) close to your body.
  5. Be Cautious with Information:
    • Avoid oversharing your travel plans or personal details with strangers.

Accommodation Safety

  1. Book Reputable Lodgings:
    • Choose well-reviewed hostels, hotels, or guesthouses with solid security measures.
  2. Room Safety:
    • Check the locks on doors and windows. Use a portable doorstop or travel lock for added security.

Transportation Tips

  1. Ride Safely:
    • Use licensed taxis or rideshare apps like Uber with GPS tracking. Avoid hitchhiking in unfamiliar areas.
  2. Public Transport:
    • Keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid traveling late at night.
  3. Night Travel:
    • If arriving in a new city after dark, arrange transport in advance. If possible, avoid walking outdoors at night.

Health Precautions

  1. Stay Healthy:
    • Carry a basic first-aid kit and medications for common ailments like stomach issues or colds.
  2. Eat Safely:
    • Stick to freshly cooked food and drink bottled water in regions where water safety is questionable.
  3. Know the Nearest Clinic:
    • Identify trusted hospitals or clinics at your destination.

Emergency Preparedness

  1. Code Words:
    • Set up a code word with loved ones that signals you’re in trouble.
  2. Escape Routes:
    • Be aware of exits in your accommodations, restaurants, and public spaces.
  3. Personal Safety Items:
    • Carry a whistle, pepper spray (where legal), or a personal alarm.

Emotional Safety

  1. Stay Mindful:
    • Solo travel can be lonely; ensure you nurture your mental health through journaling or staying connected with loved ones.
  2. Build a Support Network:
    • Engage with other travelers, expat communities, or locals in safe environments to create a sense of belonging.
  3. Celebrate Wins:
    • Acknowledge small victories to keep yourself motivated and confident.

Being prepared doesn’t mean being paranoid. Trust the world’s kindness, but stay vigilant. With these precautions, you’ll have the confidence to focus on what truly matters: the incredible journey ahead.

Following the above suggestions doesn’t guarantee your safety, so you must constantly be alert for potentially risky situations. Travel in known groups as much as possible.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, November 21, 2014:

In Maui, three tree trimmers climbed the trees at different speeds. At this point, they were on the ocean side of the property. For more photos, please click here.