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There are plenty of things one can gain from exploring different places. The list includes gaining new friends, new experiences, and new stories.

When you start exploring new places, you get a better understanding of the people living there, including their culture, history and background.

Studies show that travelling can improve your overall health and enhance your creativity. Therefore, you need to take time out from your daily tasks, office responsibilities, hectic schedule, and everyday pressures at least once in a year. Plan a tour to a new city with an open schedule and let life present you with the numerous opportunities.

If you need more convincing, here is a list of all the benefits of traveling.

1. Improves Social and Communication Skills

One of the main benefits of travelling, especially to areas where your native language is not widely used, is that you learn how to communicate better with other people. Brushing up your knowledge on the most commonly used phrases or questions tourists ask can help you reach out to and relate better with the locals.

2. Ensures Peace of Mind

We all have stress and tension in our lives. Traveling forces us to temporarily disconnect from our normal routine, helping us appreciate the people and things we have around. As per a famous saying "we never know what we have until we lose it."

3. Helps You Get Original and Creative Thoughts

It is believed that if someone gets out of their comfort zone, the mind gets more creative. To develop new neural connections that trigger original and creative thoughts, you must explore new places and break out of your daily routine.

4. Broadens Your Horizons

Travelling helps you connect with different people from different cultures. This gives you the opportunity to see issues and daily life challenges from a different angle.
See Also: Strange International Laws Every Tourist Should Know
5. Enhances Your Tolerance for Uncertainty

While travelling, you will find yourself stuck in situations where things don't always go as planned. Such situations will help you learn to cope with the uncertainties in life.

6. Boosts Up your Confidence

Being in a place where you do not know anyone will assist you to gain confidence and presence of mind. You will develop the ability to cope with obstacles, which will make you a confident person.

7. Gets You Real-life Education

Meeting different people from vast cultures and societies provides an education that is impossible to get in a traditional school, college or a university. There is no substitute for the real thing.

8. Creates Memories for Lifetime

If you travel with friends and family members, traveling helps you build stronger bonds and make memories. You can also save memories of a lifetime by creating photo albums or sharing photos in social media.
See Also: 5 Steps To Reinvent Your Life By Traveling
9. Helps You Have Fun

No matter how young or old you are, there is always a time when the child in you wants to have some fun. When you travel, you do not care what you do at all and you can just break free from the norm.

10. Aids you Get to Know Yourself

While traveling, you might find yourself stuck in situations you won't normally experience in your daily life. This can help you understand yourself and how you react to such circumstances, preparing you for future similar situations.

Although traveling offers many benefits, it also has some disadvantages if not planned carefully. If you are a patient and taking medication for a disease, do not forget to carry your medication. Keeping jet lag pills handy saves you from unnecessary discomfort.

Those susceptible to allergies should carry allergy medication. Plan your tour in advance, prepare a checklist to keep yourself healthy while traveling, and pack important items before you travel.

Travelling is good for the health so decide a place now and pack your bags. Remember, you only live once, so start traveling to different places and get some life-altering experiences.

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There are plenty of things one can gain from exploring different places. The list includes gaining new friends, new experiences, and new stories. When you start exploring new places, you get a better understanding of the people living there, including their culture, history and background.

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Many people ponder what they should do for a vacation and I realized a lot of people don't seem to share my views about traveling. I believe it's very important to see the world and different cultures. It lets us open our minds to new things and we get to experience life in exiting different ways.

Traveling gives us the opportunity to disconnect from our regular life. You get to forget your problems/issues for a few weeks, it can also help you figure things out that you would not have understood without the distance traveling can give you. We all have crazy schedules, work and a family to take care of, going away alone or with some friends can give you distance and perhaps even make you realize how important these people are for you. Like the saying says: we never know what we have until we lose it.

Another great benefit is the relaxation you get to do. It's nice to live life to its fullest and enjoy a stress free time with yourself. Going on vacation lets us recharge our "batteries" by disconnecting us from our regular life. When we come back we feel invigorated and we are happy to be back in our day to day routine. It's a very good stress remover that has a lot more to give than most people are willing to accept.

Traveling increases our knowledge and widens our perspective. To view new customs, different ways of living is fantastic for the mind. It gives us a new perspective about life and especially our life, it can help us change some of our habits or even create new ones. When I travel I usually make it a point to try new food, some cultures don't have fries in their diet and they are all skinny, others use spices to give taste and not oils or fats. Discovering different values and ways to get by in life is really interesting. You also need to visit exotic new places and discover what this wonderful world has to offer.

New experiences increase our resourcefulness by living situations you would never encounter at home, this is great experience for you when you come back to your routine. I have noticed that people who traveled a lot in life were ready to embrace change and have a natural ability of overcoming problems that others would frown upon.

When traveling with friends or family it creates memories for a lifetime. These memories will create a bond that nothing can erase no matter what happens with the friendship/relationship. It can also give a new perspective on the relationship and cement the bond forever. It also gives nice stories to tell people afterwards, you can create photo albums about your trips and when you feel nostalgic you can take an hour of your life and experience the trips again by looking at your pictures.

It's never been this cheap to travel. With soaring oil prices the cheap travel era might be coming to an end. However there are still many budget airlines fighting for your dollar right now. With the internet and all the new technology, you can plan your trip exactly the way you want it. You can choose your budget, the duration of the trip and what you want to do. I suggest to read travel blogs and see what others are experiencing, you can save yourself a few hurdles by reading about their trip.

If you have some time off I suggest to take that trip and experience what life has to offer. Don't wait or tell yourself there will be a better time to go. Take the risk, the opportunity and buy your plane ticket right now and leave. When you come back you won't be sorry that you left, on the contrary you will be thinking of your next trip the second you come back from the airport.

Feel free to let me know how traveling helped you out, what new experiences you lived and how they helped you in your life.

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Many people ponder what they should do for a vacation and I realized a lot of people don't seem to share my views about traveling. I believe it's very important to see the world and different cultures. It lets us open our minds to new things and we get to experience life in exiting different ways.

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Europe has so much history, a variety of cultures, languages, food, people... that there really is no reason not to visit. But with so many travellers visiting Europe - East, West, North, South, and Central, the region is changing rapidly and has sure evolved quicker than I could have imagined since I first visited over 7 years ago. So, here they are:

Tips For Travelling in Europe

1. Research + Planning is key

If I could take back the $400, 8 hour drive from Romania to Serbia, I would. Sadly I foolishly led myself to believe there just must be a train I could catch, instead of doing a little research to find out well in advance. Europe is a tricky one because the West is so crowded with visitors and the East is still so difficult to travel throughout in comparative terms. I love a challenge, so I love venturing East... just be sure to do your research and planning in advance. Especially taking into consideration that during winter, almost everything in Europe changes - opening (or more appropriately closing) hours; weather; light in a day; and so on and so forth.

2. Book everything in Advance

For normal holidays, it is more than sufficient to book your airfares and accommodation, and merely turn up to see what takes your fancy / where you'll spend your time. But for Europe, especially during March (spring break) or Summer (June, July, August), you'll often be stuck without a bed or disappointed to miss one of the top attractions if you do not book in advance.

3. Don't book through third party sites for attractions + activities

Sites like "Viator" are a great place to start when researching the various attractions and activities you can enjoy in a new city, but they'll also charge you up to double the amount for the bookings. Instead, go directly to the attraction's website to book or for activities, a quick Google search will take you there.

4. Don't let anyone help you with your bags - on trains especially

The old saying goes "if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. And alas, in most circumstances it is. Anyone offering to help you with your bags will proceed to demand cash from you - so to avoid the hassle, keep a tight grip on your bags. On that note, make sure you watch your bags when you depart each station - as they might just so happen to wander off with another passenger.

5. Cheap airlines vs. National Carriers

The age old debate - to save a few bucks and take the risk of paying the price of a new limb just for overweight bags, or to book with an established airline and save the hassle? If you're going to fly with a cheap airline, be sure to take portable scales around with you - they'll save you hundreds of dollars. Similarly, consider your luggage constraints in advance and book the necessary weight for your limit, rather than handing over hundreds of dollars for slightly overweight bags.

6. Choose the Right Credit Card

Do yourself a favour - avoid fees wherever you can. They add up. 28 Degrees Mastercard has always been my go-to card, but on the 1/1/2014 they introduced cash advance fees on withdrawals. Thus, the new "best" credit card in Australia is the Citibank Travel Card. On that note, don't forget to ring your bank to inform them of your travel plans!

7. Seize the Day

Big cities in Europe (I'm talking London, Paris, Rome, etc) are always heaving with tourists. And I mean always. To see the city a different way (and often more enjoyable), start your day early and finish when you pass out on your bed, unable to exert even an ounce of energy.

8. "Skip the Line" Passes

Don't like waiting? Nor do I when my time is limited! Many European cities offer "skip the line" passes which allow you to do just that - skip. the. line. Amazing!

9. Walk Everywhere

Not only will you save money, but you will also see more of the city, the more you explore on foot.

10. Don't exchange cash, Instead opt for the ATM

Cash exchanges were the "in thing" about a decade ago. Nowadays it is much cheaper and easier to simply stick your card in the ATM and withdraw the cash you need in the local currency.

11. Carry some Euros, Always

While not all European countries are on the Euro (Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Sweden, and the UK), it still pays to always carry some cash around with you. Euros will get you by in most countries, and in others you will need to withdraw a little cash on arrival. Save yourself the hassle of not being able to buy lunch because you couldn't read the "cash only" sign.

12. When Packing, Consider the Cobblestones

Summer in Europe provides ample opportunity to dress up and enjoy the sunshine. Winter is even more of a trap with all your clothing items suddenly being x10 heavier - i.e. coats, jeans, boots, etc. But when you pack, consider the cobblestone streets and walkways you'll be dragging that 25 kilogram case over - it ain't easy! Save yourself the dead arms and always pack less, never more and hardly ever enough. What you don't need, you can always buy there.

13. Avoid Restaurants with Pictures of Food

This is a general rule to follow across the globe, because quite frankly there could be nothing more off putting than choosing your food based on a photograph. Usually (if not always) these places are a dive. Avoid.

14. High Speed Trains - Use Them

While they may put you a few extra dollars out of pocket, they will work wonders in terms of getting you from A to B in much less time, giving you more time to explore your next destination. You've come all this way on a timeframe (be it 3 weeks or 3 months), so make the most of every moment.

15. Do try the Local Cuisine

On my first trip to Europe I was almost petrified of eating anything I hadn't seen before. What was it? What's in there? I would visually dissect any pastry or pizza and convince myself it just wasn't worth the worry. But nowadays, things have changed. I TRY EVERYTHING... and so should you. There will be nowhere in the world that serves pasta like the italians, no better chocolate than in Belgium and Switzerland, and no better excuse to eat copious amounts of gelato for every meal of the day. Go all out!

16. A note on House Wine

It is cheap.... and scrumptious.

17. Eat as Far Away from the Major Attractions as Possible

And/or research great eats before you go. If you have food intolerances, you should make an extra effort to find a number of places you can eat throughout the city and save yourself the hassle of walking for hundreds of metres to no avail.

18. Allow yourself a mix of "Tourist" & "Traveller"

I'm always reading how important it is to be a traveller and not a tourist... but I'm going to make a bold claim here and say it is entirely okay to be both. Having a blend of both major attractions and off the beaten path experiences will give you a well-rounded experience of a new city.

19. When in London,

There are many great free attractions on offer, especially by way of museums! Check out how to experience London on a budget to cut down the costs of one of the world's most expensive cities to visit.

20. When in Rome,

The Roma Pass is entirely worth your while if you plan on visiting loads of the sights and attractions in Rome (honestly, who doesn't!?), as well as giving you free metro transport throughout the duration you purchase. It also allows you to use a much shorter access line saving a lot of time and trouble.

21. When in Paris,

You're allowed to drink alcohol in public areas in Paris, I repeat: alcohol. public. areas. So you're looking for the perfect picnic!? Grab a bottle of French champagne, cheese, bread, and head for the Eiffel Tower. You won't regret it.

22. When in Amsterdam,

The best way to get around Amsterdam and feel like a local is to hire a bike for the day. If you want to take it one step further, consider renting a houseboat for your stay (there are a few on offer through Air BnB).

23. When in Berlin,

Just because German food is traditionally heavy carbs + meat, does not mean you have to eat this way in Berlin! Quite the contrary! Berlin is incredibly vegetarian + vegan friendly, even having a fully vegan supermarket! There are some fantastic smoothie bars on offer, as well as plenty of options to eat and stay healthy.

24. When in Venice,

A gondola seats six, so pack yourself in like sardines as the price is per gondola, not per person. Don't use a map in Venice - ever. Half the fun of this city is to get lost. Don't skimp out and only visit for one day, this city deserves at least two.

25. When in Copenhagen,

Copenhagen is expensive - there's no denying it. But many of the top attractions are free to see and experience, even museums on Wednesdays!

26. When in Prague,

Don't miss the chance to catch a 2.5 hour bus to Cesky Krumlov, arguably the prettiest town in all of Europe!

27. When in Lisbon,

Take to the streets and explore Alfama neighbourhood on foot. It is here where you will find the most authentic and accurate reflection of Portuguese way of life, as well as many great cheap eats options.

28. When in Budapest,

Don't miss your chance to bath in Europe's largest thermal bath, Szechenyi, for around $12 for the day.

29. When in Vienna,

Head to the Opera an hour or more earlier and take the side entrance. It is here where you will be able to purchase "standing only" tickets for a few euros, much cheaper than the 60 euros + price tag on regular tickets.

30. Swap Driving for Trains

Driving in Europe is a nightmare, particularly if you're crossing into other countries and trying to drive a rental car one-way. The easiest way to travel throughout Europe has always been to use the train network. A great option is to invest in a travel pass to ease the paperwork.

31. Come Prepared

This is a bit of an odd one to talk about, but certainly worth mentioning. Imagine yourself in India eating plenty of spicy foods your body is not used to, and imagine what would happen as a result when you rush to the bathroom. Then imagine this is reverse when considering all the bread and pasta your body is likely to consumer in Europe - then imagine the reverse effect. Yup, come prepared with medicinal help to avoid trying to ask for them at the chemist counter.

32. Night Trains

Are a great way to save money on accommodation for the evening and are often cheaper than trains during the day. Book in advance to save money as prices typically hike nearer to the date.

33. Ski in Cheaper Locations

Plan on skiing in Europe during the winter? So do many others! If you head to the French or Swiss alps, you're gonna have to be prepared to hand over the big bucks. Alternatively, consider the likes of Slovenia or Poland for cheaper but still great slopes.

34. Be Aware of Political Unrest

Political unrest in Europe is not uncommon, so be sure to check online before and during your trip incase any arises.

35. Festivals

Europe has some fantastic festivals on offer that will make your experience all the more enjoyable and memorable. Consider: The running of the bulls (Pamplona, Spain), St Patrick's Day (Dublin, Ireland) and King's Day (Amsterdam) among many others.

36. Carpe Diem!

& perhaps the most simple tip of them all - never forget to seize the day.

Brooke founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen!

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The 36 Best Tips for Travelling in Europe | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

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Europe has so much history, a variety of cultures, languages, food, people... that there really is no reason not to visit. But with so many travellers visiting Europe - East, West, North, South, and Central, the region is changing rapidly and has sure evolved quicker than I could have imagined since I first visited over 7 years ago.

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The short-haul bucket list: 30 places in Europe you must see in your lifetime

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So you've done it-bought your tickets for a vacation in Europe and eager to see the sights- or you've at least decided that "Europe" is your next destination!

From east to west, Europe is a mixture of cultures, languages, heritage, architecture and customs all across the continent. The dissolution of border checks within the EU means that travel in Europe has never been easier, more affordable or more convenient!

Here are my top 15 tips for traveling Europe to the fullest!

Europe can be a mess in peak-travel season, with crowds and queues lining up in Paris and London, and even smaller hamlets like Avignon and Verona. Avoid the months of June, July and August if you'd rather not fight large lines and crowds to see the Mona Lisa or the Sistine Chapel.

Plus, summertime is when Europeans themselves head elsewhere for vacation, so my suggestion to get a real feel on what locals are like in your destination, visit cusp-season- early spring or in the fall!

Head off the beaten track of Eiffel Towers and Galeries Lafayettes to check out the smaller businesses, the family-run patisserie or the mom-and-pop gelato place on the corner.

You're here to meet and mingle with locals, so you might as well support local businesses and while you're add it, you can even try a 'Bonjour' or 'Ciao' with them. Restaurants and shops off the main roads tend to be cheaper anyways!

Helpful Tip: Restaurants with pictures on the menu tend to cater towards a tourist crowd, which means their prices are marked up as well. Learn some food phrases in your destination's language, or carry a translator so you don't need the pictures anyways!

Practice a few phrases before you arrive and use them with locals if you feel comfortable. In most cases, they'll appreciate a tourist trying to speak the local tongue.

Try listening to a few podcasts to get the right pronunciation, or spend some time with a language program like Rosetta Stone leading up to your trip.
Greetings and thanks can go a long way-and don't forget to learn the word for toilet!
It always feels more rewarding to stay in one place for a week or two rather than city-hopping every few days. Not only does that mean less packing and unpacking, you have the chance to get to know a neighborhood, find a favorite cafe, and even make a few friendships by sticking it out in one place.

Rent a airbnb for the week, or find a Homestay in a favorite corner of town for a few weeks!

You don't want to be that tourist standing out from the crowd with bad manners or loud exclamations, so observe what the locals do and follow suit.

For example, don't wear tank tops in conservative Orthodox churches, or lower your tone-most Europeans speak at a softer tone than Americans. Just be aware of your surroundings, and research local etiquette for your destination if you're not sure what to expect.

A quick tip-Europeans value their lunch breaks, and midday meals often extend over hours. So you may find a ticket office or post is closed from noon until 2pm.

Take the late lunch into account when you plan your day itinerary. And guess what-it's a perfect chance to indulge in a long lunch yourself. When in Rome!

By all means, see the Eiffel Tower and ride a gondola in Venice-sometimes the beaten path can be its own fun experience.

But for the most part, you can see and do so much more if you stay off of it. Ask locals at the bar for their recommendations of where to eat and drink, or read online. It's locals who really know their city-the best place to have a picnic, the best view of gargoyles, the best place to catch the underground music scene.

It may seem logical to spend the night in a cheap hotel in the suburbs, but trust me-it's not always worth it. When you take into account the transportation to and from the city, or the hassle of trying to find a restaurant in a residential area- sleeping far from downtown can be a real pain.

Instead, splurge a bit and book a moderate place in or near the city center. You'll be able to reach the main sights and find cafes and restaurants with no trouble at all. Plus, you'll see more of the city if you're walking around rather than taking the metro or a bus.

On the other hand- large cities like Rome, Paris, London, Amsterdam can all be overrun with tourists-making it difficult to blend in, and meet and speak with locals.

Choose a smaller town with its own city center, and one that doesn't get as many tourists, but are still just a short train ride away from the main hubs: Girona near Barcelona, Bologna near Florence.

These cities are usually quieter and run at a slower pace, allowing you to enjoy yourself with less pressure. You will also find there are more accommodations in the form of apartment rentals and homestays available farther from the city center!

Don't be shy-yes, you're on your own but there's no better way to meet locals and like-minded travelers than striking up a conversation.

Street vendors, shopkeepers, bar patrons, even people staying at your hostel-smile and be open to people. You may end up meeting some lifelong friends!

To save a few pennies, hit the countries that still retain their own currency.

Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Romania, Poland and Hungary are all fascinating European countries with their own unique story to tell, and tend to be less costly than their Western European neighbors.

Budget airlines are destiny's gift for the mindful traveler. Europe has dozens of cheap airlines that fly from city to city at minimal cost. You can fly from Dublin to Warsaw, or Barcelona to Amsterdam for under $100, and usually cheaper then train tickets depending on the distance.

Europe loves their trains, and for a good reason. Traveling by train is often more spacious, comfortable, and easier than air travel depending on your end destination.

There are almost no lines and you can buy your ticket minutes before departure. Keep in mind that many trains are more expensive than air travel in Europe, but the comfort makes all the different. To make train travel even easier, download a rail planner app where you can track schedules and buy tickets.

In popular towns, there are tours and excursions galore! I've taken tours with Walks of Italy, as well as Walks of Turkey, and the guides are so knowledgeable and personable- it is a great introduction to local culture.

Most hostels offer free walking tours, and they are often run and facilitated by university students, and can be a fun introduction to your new host city.

They'll inspire you with local anecdotes, history lessons and you can return the favor by tipping them in exchange for their lively service.

Shop my favorite European-inspired items!

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So you've done it-bought your tickets for a vacation in Europe and eager to see the sights- or you've at least decided that "Europe" is your next destination! From east to west, Europe is a mixture of cultures, languages, heritage, architecture and customs all across the continent. The dissolution

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Lots of globetrotters and backpackers have journeyed to the fertile and culturally rich Southeast Asia. Known for its beautiful beaches, mesmerizing historical sights and a touch of adventurousness, this comparatively inexpensive travel destination baits thousands amongst thousands of people every year with landmarks like Angkor Wat, Cambodia; the city of Bangkok, Thailand; and the scenic views of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

As much as we highly recommend you visit these places, the prudent traveler will do his/her homework as to abide the laws and traditions of these very different countries, as well as be prepared to face the risks, both financial and otherwise that could wind up tarnishing your vacation.

These are our top 10 things to know before traveling to Southeast Asia. And read more: Malaysia Travel Tips: What Not to Do.

1. Almost everything is negotiable, almost

Haggling can be more beneficial in Southeast Asia than in most places in the world. Vendors at most malls and shops do not have price tags and it is common that when you ask for one, the price will be quite high because it looks like you have cash to burn. Don't be afraid to ask for a lower price since another vendor just a few feet way is sure to be selling the same thing.

2. The food is great, just be careful

Renowned for its amazing cuisine, both on the street and in the restaurants, eating in SE Asia is one of the most exciting parts of going, but be cautious before eating just anything. One tip is to check if you see other patrons dining at a location before you go in.

Also, many of these countries have free English-written dining guides. Check them out.

3. Watch your pockets.

Whether you are on the back of a motorbike or walking down the street, muggings happen everywhere. Keep your personal belongings near to you at all times, perhaps consider a fanny pack or only bringing along essentials where you're out of the hotel.

4. There is more to life than 'backpacker street'

SE Asian countries have become very good at creating mini-tourism hubs of inexpensive hotels or hostels and surrounding them with vendors and bars and everything you need so that you don't leave.

Granted, in places like Saigon and Bangkok, they are a lot of fun, but make a point to get out and explore other places. You'll never know what's waiting just around the corner.

Read more: [PHOTOS] 7 Southeast Asian Islands You've Probably Never Heard Of.

5. Check the local rags and mags

Photo credit: Alpha via Flickr.

As I mentioned before, most SE Asian countries have English-written guides. That's because in a number of countries there, there is already an established community of expatriates. If you are looking to just find your bearings and want a safe bet on places to go, pick one up.

6. Be prepared to be approached by strangers

Locals in Southeast Asia are often very nice toward westerners and truthfully enjoy telling you how nice you look. Whether it is coming from a man or woman, get ready for a swarm of compliments on your appearance. It may seem a little strange at first, but you will get used to it. I promise.

7. This scotch does not taste like scotch

Drinks are a quarter of the price than what you'd find in Europe or in the U.S., the reason being that many of the typical name brands are regionally produced and use local ingredients, so don't be shocked when your beloved Grey Goose on ice tastes a little different from what you are used to. Use the opportunity to try some very interesting locally produced spirits.

8. Take the tour deals seriously

Pretty much anywhere you go (of the major tourist destinations) there are sure to be tour pamphlets sitting around with great deals. From boat rides to day trips, there are great tours around that will get you where you need to go.

9. Hire local transport for the day

One great way to get around is to hire a tuk tuk or a moto-driver for the whole day to take you everywhere you want to go for a very nominal price. Your driver can also work as a de facto tour guide, getting you around to the spots you may not have though of and that you would regret not seeing.

10. When you can, take a bus or train

When it comes to budget traveling, this is the way. Night buses get you from one country to the next for next to nothing, although they do take longer, no doubt about that. Roads between many destinations are well enough to travel, although there are going to be bumpy rides. None the less, when you need to do it on the cheap, this is the best option.

Read more: Thailand Train Tips.

- Philip Heijmans for Viator

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10 Things to Know About Travel in Southeast Asia

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Lots of globetrotters and backpackers have journeyed to the fertile and culturally rich Southeast Asia. Known for its beautiful beaches, mesmerizing historical sights and a touch of adventurousness, this comparatively inexpensive travel destination baits thousands amongst thousands of people every year with landmarks like Angkor Wat, Cambodia; the city of Bangkok, Thailand; and the scenic views of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

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Explore Asia holidays and discover the best time and places to visit. | From the nomadic steppes of Kazakhstan to the frenetic streets of Hanoi, Asia is a continent so full of intrigue, adventure, solace and spirituality that it has fixated and confounded travellers for centuries.

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Taken from the Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget, these are our top 11 tips for backpacking Southeast Asia.
With its tempting mix of volcanoes, rainforest, rice fields, beaches and coral reefs, Southeast Asia is one of the most stimulating and accessible regions for independent travel in the world. You can spend the day exploring thousand-year-old Hindu ruins and the night at a rave on the beach; attend a Buddhist alms-giving ceremony at dawn and go whitewater rafting in the afternoon; chill out in a bamboo beach hut one week and hike through the jungle looking for orang-utans the next.

In short, there is enough here to keep anyone hooked for months. Here's our advice for getting the most out of backpacking Southeast Asia for the first time.

1. Plan around the weather

Southeast Asia sits entirely within the tropics and so is broadly characterized by a hot and humid climate that varies little throughout the year, except during the two annual monsoons. Bear in mind, however, that each country has myriad microclimates; for more detail see our "when to go" pages for Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

2. Get off the beaten track

Though Southeast Asia has long been on the travellers' trail, it doesn't take too much to get off the beaten track - whether it's to discover that perfect beach or to delve into the lush surrounds of the rainforest. Think about visiting the overlooked city of Battambang in Cambodia, taking the railroad less travelled in Thailand or exploring Myanmar's unspoiled southern coast.

3. Try the street food

This is the home of the world's tastiest cuisines, and the really good news is that the cheapest is often the best, with markets and roadside hawkers unbeatable places to try the many local specialities. Night markets, in particular, are great for tasting different dishes at extremely low prices - sizzling woks full of frying noodles, swirling clouds of spice-infused smoke and rows of glistening fried insects all make for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

4. Budget carefully - but have the odd splurge

Your daily budget in Southeast Asia depends on where you're travelling and how comfortable you want to be. You can survive on as little as $20 a day in some countries, but for this money you'll be sleeping in very basic accommodation, eating at simple food stalls, and travelling on local non-a/c buses. Think about where paying a little more will really enrich your trip.

5. Learn from the locals

Tribal culture is a highlight of many visits to less explored areas, and among the most approachable communities are the tribal groups around Sa Pa in Vietnam, the Torjan of Sulawesi in Indonesia, known for their intriguing architecture and ghoulish burial rituals, and the ethnic minority villages surrounding Hsipaw in Myanmar.

6. Embrace the great outdoors

Up for getting active? There's plenty to keep you busy. You can tackle world-class surf at G-land in Indonesia, take a mountain-bike tour of Vietnam's far north or discover your own lonely bays and mysterious lagoons on a sea-kayak tour of Krabi in Thailand. And that's just for starters...

7. Make time for temples

Southeast Asia's myriad temple complexes are some of the region's best-known attractions. The Hindu Khmers left a string of magnificent monuments, the most impressive of which can be seen at Angkor in Cambodia, while the Buddhists' most impressive legacies include the colossal ninth-century stupa of Borobudur in Indonesia and the temple-strewn plain of Bagan in Myanmar.

8. Get high

No, not that kind of high. Every visitor should make an effort to climb one of the spectacular mountains, whether getting up before dawn to watch the sun rise from Indonesia's Mount Bromo or embarking on the two-day trek to scale Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia.

9. Hit the beach

The beaches here are some of the finest in the world, and you'll find the cream of the crop in Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia, all of which boast postcard-pretty, white-sand bays, complete with azure waters and wooden beach shacks dotted along their palm-fringed shores. The clear tropical waters also offer supreme diving opportunities for novices and seasoned divers alike.

10. Take local transport

Local transport across Southeast Asia is uniformly good value compared to public transport in the West, and is often one of the highlights of a trip, not least because of the chance to fraternize with local travellers. Overland transport between neighbouring countries is also fairly straightforward so long as you have the right paperwork and are prepared to be patient.

11. Stay healthy

The vast majority of travellers to Southeast Asia suffer nothing more than an upset stomach, so long as they observe basic precautions about food and water hygiene, and research pre-trip vaccination and malaria prophylactic requirements - but it's still vital to arrange health insurance before you leave home. Some of the illnesses you can pick up may also not show themselves immediately, so if you become ill within a year of returning home, tell your doctor where you have been.
For a complete guide to backpacking Southeast Asia, check out The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget. Compare flights, book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don't forget to purchase travel insurance before you go.

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11 tips for backpacking Southeast Asia | Travel Feature

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Taken from the Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget, these are our top 11 tips for backpacking Southeast Asia. With its tempting mix of volcanoes, rainforest, rice fields, beaches and coral reefs, Southeast Asia is one of the most stimulating and accessible regions for independent travel in the world.

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Explore South America holidays and discover the best time and places to visit. | Andean peaks, Amazonian rainforest, Patagonian glaciers, Incan ruins, colonial towns, white-sand beaches and vertiginous nightlife: the wonders of South America set the stage for incredible adventures.

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Backpacking South America is a worthwhile adventure that I believe everyone should experience. Before I arrived on the continent, I was unsure of what to expect. To help you prepare, here are some things I wish I had known before I left for my trip.

Traveling to different cities around South America means you'll be taking the bus. If you're doing the typical backpacker circuit, be prepared for plenty of overnight bus rides. While you can spend a lot time gazing out at the beautiful scenery, it's also wise to bring some offline activities to occupy your time. Download apps and games that work without WiFi, bring a book, write in your journal, knit, draw, or do anything else that you enjoy to pass the time.

Use this time to practice your Spanish or Portuguese (depending where you are). These buses are typically full of locals, so you'll essentially have access to a free language exchange. If you prefer a language-learning app, Rype is a membership service offering unlimited one-on-one lessons each month that's really awesome!

The food is South America is delicious, but it can also be dangerous for your waistline. Because Brazil, Argentina and Chile tend to be more on the expensive side, I typically opted to cook in my hostel. However, once I was in Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador, I could get a three-course meal for around $1. As a result, my food intake increased (as did my pant's size). While the local eateries that offer these traditional meals are worth frequenting, try to eat only half of your food and add lots of active adventures into your itinerary.

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Like I mentioned before, you'll most likely be taking a number of long bus journeys in South America. Therefore, falling asleep on these buses is inevitable. Theft and pick-pocketing are common throughout South America. Instead of trying to stay up all night or losing your hair worrying about your belongings, wear pick-pocket proof clothing from retailers like Clever Travel Companion. These garments allow you to keep valuables inside of your clothing close to your body, so nobody even knows you have anything on you. I also love the handmade scarves from Speakeasy Travel Supply, each with a durable double-stitched design and self-locking zipper pocket.

I'm also a big fan of the Vigilant Personal Alarm, which blares as loud as a firetruck when you pull off the pin. I wear mine like a bracelet when walking alone at night or hiking.

Of course, the number one way to prepare for problems is to purchase travel insurance. When my luggage was lost for a week when backpacking, my travel insurance reimbursed me for the toiletries and clothing I had to buy while waiting for it to be returned. It can also ensure you're covered when big emergencies strike.

Every country in South America has a unique culture worth exploring. The best way to do this is by interacting with locals. While the bus is a great place to strike up a conversation with locals, you can also use resources like CouchSurfing to find a local host or to book local tours. I also love for booking unique nonprofit-led experiences that benefit the local community I'm visiting.

In many places in South America, you will be surrounded by delicious cakes, cookies, pastries and candies. I especially noticed this in Brazil, where it is not uncommon to eat sweets for breakfast. In fact, at all of the Brazilian hostels I stayed in, treats like chocolate cake with sprinkles and chocolate sandwich cookies were served in the morning.

South America is full of surreal and otherworldly landscapes.These beautiful sights include Patagonia, the Uyuni Salt Flats and Iguazu Falls. Scenery like this deserves more than a quick snapshot. Before your trip, take a photography class to hone your skills. UDEMY is great for online courses. If you have the money invest in a DSLR for professional looking shots. If you have any interest at all in photography, South America is a great destination to play around and get creative using beautiful landscapes as a backdrop.

For shooting video I recommend using ProEditors for editing. You can send their team of professionals your raw footage to have them create a professional video for you for just $100. You can use promo code "jessieonajourney" for 25% off, as well.

Use your next trip to South America as an excuse to splurge on a nice camera! Click To Tweet

The exchange rates vary considerably from country to country in South America. While travelers can stretch their dollar very far in Bolivia and Peru, popular tourist cities in countries like Argentina Brazil and Chile can be expensive. If you're on a budget, look up which cities are the most affordable beforehand. I noticed in Argentina the farther south I went - basically the farther into Patagonia - the more expensive things cost. My usual chicken sub went from being 10 to 15 Argentine Pesos (less than $1) in Buenos Aires to 45 to 60 Argentine Pesos ($5.50 to $7) in Bariloche. By the way, here's everything you need to know about the US dollar exchange in Argentina.

Bring a mix of US cash, debit cards, credit cards and foreign currency with you. It is not uncommon outside of big cities, especially in Patagonia, for ATMs to run out of cash, so it's good to be prepared. This happened to me in El Calafate - right as I was attempting to book tours to Perito Moreno and Torres del Paine National Park. Despite begging and pleading for the travel agencies to let me use my credit card they would only take cash. Luckily, someone I had met on the road trusted me enough to loan me the money - aren't travelers the best? - and I paid them back in the next town. Additionally, tell your bank and credit card company you're leaving the country beforehand. If you don't, you may find yourself with a frozen account.

Moreover, don't always think "roughing it" will save you money. Making use of the shelters on the "W" circuit in Torres del Paine and camping your way through the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are quite expensive. In fact, one night in a "refugio" in Torres del Paine will cost about $40 to $60 - and that only includes the mattress. Camping in the park is free if you bring your own gear; however, this can be tricky as the hike is difficult at times and you will have to carry your own equipment. Moreover, to trek with a good company for the Inca Trail will cost about $500 to $650 including entrance fees.
It's always good to be prepared! Make sure you're aware of the exchange rates before you travel. Click To Tweet

While most people check the weather for the first city of their trip, it is a good idea to look it up for each area when traveling in South America. For example, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, you may be able to walk around in shorts and tank top, while heading to Bariloche in the same country may require a hat and coat. Furthermore, don't think because it is a certain season in your destination the weather will match that season in your home country. Autumn in Patagonia or Brazil is a lot different than autumn in New York.

There are many preconceived notions that exist on what "South American food" is like. The truth is that each country, and even the different cities within a country, has its own local specialties. Argentine empanadas are delicious; however, the ingredients differ from city to city. In Brazil eating açai is more than just a treat, it's a cultural experience. Ceviche in Peru, cuy in Ecuador, seafood stews in Chile, giant steaks and matte tea in Argentina, barbeque in Brazil - these are just some of the delicious options waiting for you on your backpacking adventure.

If you're looking for a unique culinary experience, sites like and allow you to dine in local homes.

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Not only do the countries of South America feature unique and appetizing foods, many are also known for their national drinks. In Brazil, you must try the "Caipirinha," a strong cocktail made with cachaça, sugar and lime. Moreover, Argentina is world-renowned for its red Malbec wine, while the Pisco Sour, created using pisco and lemon juice, is typical of Peru and Chile. In Colombia, savor "Aguardiente," or firewater, made from sugar cane molasses converted into alcohol. The proof is usually 60%, and many times sugar is added to sweeten the drink. For more on this, check out International Booze Cruise: The Best Local Cocktails From Around The World.

With such convenient bus transportation, keeping a loose itinerary is easy. You can arrive in a city, peruse the different bus routes, then figure out where you want to go. I'd advise talking to other travelers in your hostel to get recommendations. For example, when I arrived in Bariloche, Argentina, I immediately went and booked a bus ticket to El Calafate, simply based on the fact that I had read this is what you were "supposed to do in Patagonia"; however, after speaking with other backpackers it became sadly apparent I was skipping El Chalten, a hotspot for hiking. If I had waited to book my ticket I could have stopped there first and then moved on to El Calafate.

That being said, you should plan out any big hikes in advance. For example, if you want to trek the Inca Trail you're going to need to book it months in advance if you want to ensure you have a spot. Moreover, doing the "W" circuit in Torres del Paine, or even a shorter version of it, requires some beforehand planning. Will you camp, stay in a refugio, or book a nearby hotel? Are the refugios open when you're going? If it's high season, they may even be booked up. Where will you store your pack? Will you trek with it? I'd also recommend checking the weather, as this windy park can be difficult to trek when stormy.

No matter what thrills you, you'll find it in South America. Surfing Rio de Janeiro's beautiful beaches, hiking glaciers or ancient ruins, hang gliding over picturesque Patagonia, trekking the Andes or Amazon and scuba diving the clear waters of Paraty - these are just a few of your options. Simply backpacking South America is an adventure in itself, as you never know whom you'll meet, what cultural discoveries you'll make or where you'll end up the next day.

I felt particularly lazy one night when I was in Paraty, Brazil. Nevertheless, I went to the beach bar across the street from my hostel for a Caipirinha just to feel social. I ended up hanging out with locals all night, learning how to forró dance and going to the town's signature nightclub, Paraty 33. It ended up being one of my most memorable nights of the trip. For the full story, check out Breaking Language Barriers: A Date Without Words In Paraty, Brazil.

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I don't care if you're in your hometown, you should always be alert. Bad things happen everywhere, not just when you're traveling. That being said, there are certain cities - and areas within cities - that you need to be extra vigilant in.

When arriving at a hostel, I always make sure to ask the staff to circle the areas on my map that are more dangerous. For example, when in Buenos Aires, the hostel staff told me to be very careful when walking around in the southeast part of the city near La Boca. Not listening, a friend of mine not only went and walked around the area alone, but also made it obvious he was carrying a camera and stored it in his backpack - where it was completely out of his sight. It wasn't surprising to me that by the time he returned to the hostel, his camera had been stolen. On a bus ride in Bolivia, where you should always be on high alert, one traveler fell asleep with her DSLR camera sitting in her lap. Luckily her boyfriend was awake, because one local actually reached over to snatch it off her lap. He was able to stop the theft from occurring, but the situation could have been avoided if the girl would have been more cautious.

Keep in mind, these are examples of petty theft. You also want to keep yourself safe from physical danger. For more on this, check out 17 Safety Tips For Solo Travelers.
This article was adapted from a piece originally published on Gadling.

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14 Essential Tips For Backpacking South America

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Backpacking South America is a worthwhile adventure that I believe everyone should experience. Before I arrived on the continent, I was unsure of what to expect. To help you prepare, here are some things I wish I had known before I left for my trip.