Every year on my birthday I publish a blog on the travel lessons I learned for the previous year. This year’s post is a little late (no surprises whilst the world is so topsy-turvy!) But I wanted to publish it anyway.
This is my favourite blog to write every year, because it makes me take stock of how far I’ve come And how many incredible things I’ve experienced.
Writing this in a period when travel currently isn’t possible, and whilst at home, makes me even more grateful for the incredible adventures I had last year. And hopeful that they will start again soon.
My Previous Travel Lessons
27 Travel Lessons I Learned This Year
1. PADI Scuba Diving
This was a lesson in the realist sense of the word. This year we got Paddy certified in Brazil, and qualified as advanced open water diver is.It was one of the most incredible things I’ve ever done, and after a slight panic attack prior to entering the water it was an amazing experience.
The practical course to qualify was three days long, and we completed the theory online prior to arriving in Brazil.
2. Lounge passes are worth it.
I’ve always considered myself a budget traveller. In fact I’ve written an entire blog is about how I afford to travel the world. But this year I learned that sometimes you get what you pay for, and the price tag is worth it. Kirsten had a lounge pass that we were both able to use, and it made a phenomenal difference to our travel experience. Particularly on our trip around Brazil where we passed through multiple airports within three weeks.
Each transfer or wait for departure was accompanied by free food, free alcohol, reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable chairs and plenty of space to play monopoly deal. Although the existing membership has expired, it’s certainly something I would happily consider investing in again for a future multi-stop trip.
3. Missing a flight isn’t the end of the world.
This was a hard lesson to learn, but prior to this year I had never missed a flight. Our misfortune came when our bus from parity to São Paulo was diverted by five hours, taking the journey to a painful total of 11 hours on a coach. We arrived at the airport after the flight had already taken off and with almost no sleep. Whilst I was initially gutted to be missing our first day at Iguazu Falls, In the end (and with some extra money) we were able to purchase a new flight for later that afternoon and still enjoy to incredible days at Brazil’s was epic wonder of the world. travel lesson learned: I never want to miss the flight again, but if I do it will be okay.
4. Travelling for long distance relationships is tiring.
The past year has seen a year’s worth of long-distance relationship, travelling back and forth to each other and meeting in different countries to be together. It means lot’s of waiting, airports, delays, planning and anticipation. We both spent a lot of our year travelling back and forth to each other. Long distance has been hard, particularly on the days when you just want a hug, or a shoulder to cry on. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but we also know we’ll make it.
5. Travelling for long distance relationships is worth it.
To directly contradict the point above, being in a long-distance relationship also has its perks. It led us to travel more than we ever would if we lived in the same city. We cherish every minute that we had together, and found new ways to communicate and stay connected. I certainly wouldn’t pick it, but we found the silver linings and I travelled the world because of it.
6. Natural Wonders are more spectacular than man-made wonders
I am lucky enough to have seen 4 of the wonders of the world and 2 of the new Natural Wonders. And after taking a boat ride into the Iguazu Falls in Argentina, I can confirm that it was the most breathtaking (literally) experience you’ll ever have. Sure, Christ the Redeemer and the Great Wall are impressive, but nothing comes close to the power of 275 waterfalls.
7. Day trips are always a good idea.
No matter where I go, if I visit a big city for more than two days I am always inclined to take a day trip out of the main tourist area. Whether it’s Szentendre outside of Budapest, Lunenburg outside of Hamburg or renting a moped to explore the island in Thailand, I always love a day trip. It’s the perfect way to see another side of the country, particularly if you’re only there for a short period of time. And visiting the small towns outside the main city always feels more authentic. Not to mention the local restaurants that are waiting to be uncovered.
8. There is a museum in Hungary dedicated to marzipan
Does this really need any further explanation? It was bigger, more mind-boggling and better than I could ever have imagined. Find it here in Szentendre.
9. Travelling in off-season has its perks and downsides.
We visited Brazil in the low season. This had massive perks when it came to crowd sizes and the price of the flights and hotels. However, it also meant travelling in a season that didn’t quite match my expectation of Brazilian weather. We had many days of rain or cloud. Overall, travelling in low season did have its perks but I’ve learned that I will always be happiest when in the sunshine.
10. Attending Pride in multiple countries is empowering and affirming.
In my 27th year, I attended the most appropriate to date. I went to 4 in total. Disneyland Paris magical pride, Edinburgh, Budapest and Barcelona. Each was unique in its own way and talk to me something else about the LGBT community. Pride has so much meaning to our community and experiencing it in different countries across Europe was eye-opening. Although pride 2020 is mostly postponed, I know what an important place it has in my life and I can’t wait to attend the next one when it’s safe to do so again.
11. Learning SEO
Learning to rank better in Google search results for my blog was a goal I set myself last year, and succeeded in. Prior to last year my blog was primarily read by friends and family via publishing links on Facebook and Instagram. But after teaching myself SEO (search engine optimisation), I managed to increase the traffic to my blog substantially. It’s still a work in progress and an ever-changing skill. But I’m proud of myself for setting a goal and achieving it. I’ve included it in my travel lessons because if I didn’t travel, I wouldn’t have a blog!
12. It’s ok to have “meh” days, even when travelling.
Perhaps one of the biggest travel lessons of the year. Sometimes when we travel, and particularly because of social media, there is a pressure for every day to be an epic day. This year told me that it’s okay to have a bad day, even on the road. Life still happens, we still have emotions. And false a beautiful beach and blue skies can fix a lot, it can’t always fix everything.
I’ve learned to allow myself to have a bad day and to be okay with it. I don’t always get it right, and still sometimes I get frustrated at myself if I’m abroad and feeling less than 100%, but I’m getting there.
13. They have metal cutlery in Premium Economy.
Would you believe it?! I flew in premium economy this year as part of a business trip to Singapore, and discovered that the front half of the plane actually has silverware.
14. Bali isn’t over rated, but it is a little cliché.
I have always wanted to visit Bali, but also being a little scared that it wouldn’t live up to expectations. I’m not sure there is a travel blogger or influencer out there who hasn’t posted pictures of the ricefields, picture perfect t beaches and temples. When I finally visited this year, it didn’t disappoint. Yes, it is slightly cliche with smoothie bowls and Western-style bars on most corners.
15. Disneyland Pride is every bit as magical, colourful and happy as you would expect.
In 2019 Disneyland Paris was home to the first ever official Disney Pride celebration. It was heartwarming, wholesome and full of joy. Everything you would except from mixing the Happiest Place On Earth with a Pride parade.
16. The ‘Flying Fish’ water ride in Barcelona may induce whiplash, but will be worth it.
Think about sitting on a giant inflatable raft, and then being pulled across the sea by a speed boat so fast the front end of the inflatable lifts into the air. That’s the thrilling and slightly jarring experience of the flying fish. 10/10 recommend, unless you’re of a nervous disposition!
17. Budapest is a great destination in every season.
Ok, there are a few Budapest travel lessons throughout this blog, but I did spend a lot of time there in the past year. And my biggest take away is that it’s a pretty perfect destination in every season. Whether its a summer stroll across Margaret island or winter ice skating in the park, I recommend Budapest in every season.
18. Athens Island Day Trips aren’t really worth it
A trip to Athens is definitely worth it. But if you’re only there for the weekend, be realistic with how much you’ll see beyond the city. I took an Islands Day Trip to 3 islands and spent more time on the boat than the islands themselves. If you do want to leave the city, maybe choose one or extend your stay for a little longer.
19. Airbnb experiences are a unique way to learn new skills.
Airbnb not only specialise in unique accommodation, but also experiences around the world. We experienced it in Edinburgh this year in the form of a pasta making class. We had a private pasta making class in a professional chef’s kitchen, in her own home. It was so fun and such a unique local experience.
20. The John Lennon wall in Prague is overrated.
The John Lennon wall in Prague is one of it’s most iconic sights when you search for ‘Things to do in Prague”. However, I was a little disappointed when I saw it in person. As with most tourist sites, it was mostly queues of people waiting to get their photo taken in front of it. If you’re in Prague, its worth walking by. But don’t set your expectations too high.
21. If you want good travel photographs, wake up early
To slightly contradict my point about the John Lennon wall, if photos at iconic sites are something you care about, it’s important to be an early riser. When we visited the Escadaria Selarón in Rio De Janiero we got up early and enjoyed at least 30 minutes of almost empty steps before the tour groups arrived by the bus load.
22. There is a museum in Budapest dedicated to pinball machines.
You heard me right. The Pinball Museum is hidden away in Budapest and is a place that you can play on Pinball machines of every age and size. There are some old school games dating back to the 60’s and others that are 2 tiered, selfie-taking high-tech machines. If you’re ever in Budapest, go support this local business.
23. There are car-free islands in Brazil that you should definitely visit.
Spending 3 days on the car-free island Ilha Grande was absolute bliss. Despite the weather being very mixed, the hikes, beaches and food was second to none. Being in a carless place was extra peaceful and felt like a break from the busy world. I would recommend a visit to anyone.
24. If you have an overnight layover, invest in a hotel.
I learned this travel lesson the hard way. On our way to Thailand we had a 9 hour layover in Qatar and tried to pass it in the airport. The night was LONG, sleeping in slightly reclined chairs, in flourescent lights and constant noise from other passengers. On the way home we had an equally long layover and booked a Premier Inn near the airport. We got at least 7 hours of healthy sleep and arrived home super refreshed.
25. Staying in LGBT Friendly hotels is a dream
Sure, many hotels are neutral to LGBT travellers. However, staying at an actively LGBT-welcoming hotel is a different story. It can be nerve-wracking checking in to a hotel and not knowing the welcome you’ll receive. Staying at SIS Kata in Phuket was so much fun knowing that we were free to be openly queer. Not to mention, the Pride flag photo-shoot by the pool was a great laugh.
26. When one door closes, another opens
Quite literally. Just before our trip to Rio, where we had planned to take a doors-off helicopter ride and I was so excited. But new regulations meant that the doors had to be on. We were offered to ride anyway or get a refund. I was disappointed and worried it wouldn’t be as fun to ride with doors on, but we agreed to go. Travel lesson learned: always say yes to helicopters. It was phenomenal and ended up being one of my favourite moments of the whole trip.
27. Don’t save the big trips for a ‘special occassion.’ Always Say Yes.
This travel lesson has been reinforced in the month since my birthday as we all face locked down and a travel hiatus. But I learnt it in January when we spontaneously booked a trip to Thailand after a particularly stressful period at work. At first I was apprehensive, and felt a bit guilty, to take such a massive trip for no real reason. What we did would be a once-in-a-lifetime for some and it felt crazy to go on a whim. But if the past few months have taught me anything, its to never take an opportunity for granted. If you have the ability to go somewhere – Always Say Yes.
And that’s it! My 27 travel lessons I learned when I was 27.
I really enjoy taking the time to do this each year and reflect on how much I’ve grown and how many experiences I’m so grateful to have had. Particularly now that travel isn’t accessible to us. I’m curious to see what next year’s blog post of travel lessons will look like.. I suspect a lot of gratitude.
