Your First International Trip: Deciding Where To Go

There are many factors to consider in the process that may encourage or discourage your final destination decision. Here are some factors to consider:

Language: Are you comfortable being in a place where you don’t speak the language? Or do you want somewhere where English is predominant?

Distance: Take into consideration the actual flight time so you don’t spend a majority of your trip at the airport (although airports can be quite fun). Also, if you cross the International Date Line, you will lose a day when you travel there from North America.

Cost: Take into account world currencies so you know approximately how much you would be spending. In some cases, you will be paying more for things whereas in some places you can live like a king on just dollars a day.

Type of facilities: Do you want to stay in an American-style hotel or assimilate into the local culture by staying in a family-owned establishment? Typically, you’ll find the high-rises in metropolitan areas and the smaller, quaint places in the more remote locations.

Type of tours: Is your trip going to be all about exploration or just relaxing at the beach? If you are going for the more active route, be sure that there are tours and activities to satisfy your needs.

Climate: Check the season (remember that anything in the Southern hemisphere will be opposite North America’s seasons) and what the highs and lows are for that season. Also, make a note of when the wet and dry seasons are you can avoid monsoon-like conditions if that’s not your cup of tea.

Safety: Be sure to check with the government and consulates to determine the safety and health of the country you are interested in visiting. You may have to get some vaccinations or take preventive medications, so be sure you are okay with that before you beginning planning.