This part of the our website is dedicated to our overseas travel since the turn of the century Starting with our New Zealand trip on which we took my mother when she was 97 year old (her last overseas trip) and continuing through to trips with Carol’s dad Snow.
Due to the limitations of websites and the volume of photos I have taken I will limit the photos But if you wish to see more I am willing to show you many more
Herman’s Overseas Travel Tips
My main tip is to enjoy yourself and travel with an open mind and be prepared that it may cost more than you first expected, other than that there are some simple things you can do to ensure a fantastic time.
Tips
- Go to places you want to see, this may seem obvious but how many times do we do things because someone else said we should and not what we really felt, Some travel agents will question why you want to go to “A” because that is not a popular place and they have not had many good reviews from people who went there so you should go to “B” instead, remember we all have different likes and dislikes.
- Learn a little about the local culture before you go. You do not have to be an expert on their culture but at least have a basic understanding, many things that may be funny here, can be offensive elsewhere, this can affect the way locals treat you.
- Try to learn some basic phrases in the language of your destination. This can be hard but at least know “Hello” and “Thank you” it is appreciated.
- Try to blend in and not stand out. This again may be hard in places where you are physically different from the locals, but you can do as the locals, (When in Rome do as the Romans)
- Remember why you are travelling, to relax and enjoy yourself. Do not worry about the little things, but do care about those things that could upset your trip and comfort, be prepared to move on
- Do what you need to capture your memories, for some it is to take photos, others keep a diary but do not let it consume all your time. This is a mistake I have made and sometime still make, though I try to only take those photos I feel may make good prints, and enjoy the overall feel of a place.
- Try not to travel alone, talking about the things you have seen that day helps you relive the day. Sometimes this can explain details you may have missed or did not quite understand.
- Don’t study the details without looking at the big picture. We all know the phrase that the person “could not see the tree because of the forest” but don’t be the person who could not see the forest because of one tree.
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Welcome to Herman and Carolann’s Overseas Travels