Contrary to popular belief, there are a lot of myths regarding travel. It is hard to believe that these travel myths have persisted in an era where information is instantly accessible via smart phones and tablets. Nonetheless, these myths are still widely believed by many travelers. Let us take a look at the top three, and why you should not believe them.
You Cannot Afford to Travel
One of the biggest and most prevalent myths is that traveling is just too expensive. While it is true that travel can be expensive, you can travel abroad inexpensively in many ways. Although you will need to be willing to be creative and open-minded, any of the following options can let you explore the destinations of your dreams.
- Work in exchange for travel expenses. Organizations like WOOF, World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, offer free room and board in exchange or farm work. You can stay as long as you like, provided you are willing to work. Woof has host farms in 53 countries.
- Volunteer your time in exchange for cheap travel expenses. Great conservation organizations such as Turtle Teams (helping sea turtles), and Conservation Volunteers in Australia and New Zealand, offer greatly reduced travel expenses in return for volunteering with their organizations. The program in Australia, for example, only costs around $100 per week, but covers all of your food and lodging. That is much less than you would spend traveling on your own.
Stick to the Guidebooks
Guidebooks are a great tool for locating tourist attractions. However if you want to discover places off the beaten path, or simply find the best food, a guidebook is not the answer. Ask locals for the best places to visit and where you can find the best food. After all, no one knows a city like the locals.
So, skip the guidebook’s recommended 4 star restaurant and ask a few locals where the best place to find great, inexpensive food can be found. You will save some money and enjoy a great meal. Be sure to ask as well, where the most interesting, beautiful, or historical sites can be found.
All-Inclusive is Always the Cheapest Option
All-inclusive tours, cruises, and resorts are often seen as the cheapest way to travel. There is no doubt that some all-inclusive packages can be a cheaper way to travel. However, this is not true of all packages.
In fact, if you read the fine print, you will often find that gratuities, guide fees, top-shelf liquors, certain activities, and even some restaurants are not included. Make sure you read all of the details before you book your trip.
If the things you want to experience the most are not included, then this option is not for you. Keep in mind too, that all-inclusive resorts, tours, and cruises, have a way of keeping you from experiencing the culture and beauty of your destination because everything outside of your package is an out of pocket expense. If you really want to explore your destination, booking an all-inclusive trip is not for you.