Are you an experienced traveler? Is this your first time traveling? Whether you are an experienced traveler or new to the game, pull up a seat to prepare for a few tips. I have spent the last three months in Dublin, Ireland and I have had the pleasure of transitioning from outsider to a local. While I don't know all the tricks and secret passageways around the city, I do know how to get around without looking like a tourist.
Whether your traveling within the continental USA, Europe, or one of the may other continents around the world, there is basic knowledge that survives everyone well. Let's start with one of the most important pieces of information, safety. Before I left home for my whirlwind adventure this fall, my mom told me that no matter where I go, the most important thing is that I always know where the American Embassy is in any city I go.Do you ever sit down in a taxi and wonder how
much you'll have to pay? Here's a few tips to help you pay the best rate no matter where you are. If your traveling from the airport, ask the information desk if there is a flat rate taxis can charge to take you from the airport to the city center. In most cases you'll learn the taxis can only charge a certain amount for that distance, often times they try to over charge tourists. Now if you're in the city and want to get around via taxi there's an easy way to find out how much a taxi could charge you for going a certain distance. The Google Maps app on your phone informs you of options of how to get to your destination: public transportation, drive time and estimate cost. Take the number Google Maps provides and round it to a number inbetween (for example it may say it could cost you $15-20) and when you get in the tax show the driver the cash and say, "I have $17 can you get me to [destination] for this amount". In most cases the taxi driver will say yes and ask for the money upfront. This type of deal can save you money and also allow you to feel more comfortable when getting into a taxi.
I've been fortunate to get to travel all over Europe and the United States, and in doing so I've learned not only how to travel, but travel has become very easy and comfortable for me. One last tip before I let you go and make your own adventures. Pick one item you
would want as a souvenir from the places you travel, and collect them as you go. Because one day you'll want to look back and have a memory that reminds you of where you once were.
Victoria K. is the Fall 2016 CEA MOJO Blogger in Dublin, Ireland. She is currently a sophomore studying Marketing and Accounting at the University of Southern Indiana.