How to organize an independent trip
Travel is first and foremost about freedom. But what kind of freedom can there be if you've gone on a package tour? You can't stray from the guide, you'll constantly be crowded with strangers, and you'll only have a few hours of free time a day. What kind of vacation is that? Enough! It's time to travel independently!
You're probably thinking now that you won't manage, that it's difficult, expensive, and scary. But in reality, it's quite the opposite. Independent travel is about discoveries, meeting new and interesting people, and the opportunity to visit truly fascinating places you never even knew existed. So what's stopping you?
- It's expensive. Not at all, often organizing a trip independently is much more cost-effective than a package tour, especially if you're going to Europe. Exceptions are only countries of mass tourist pilgrimage, such as Turkey and Egypt.
- I don't know the language. Of course, this creates certain difficulties, but millions of French, Germans, and Spaniards have been traveling the world for many years, and this fact doesn't bother them at all. If you know at least a minimal level of English, rest assured, you won't get lost. And no one has canceled sign language yet. Besides, everyone has a phone now, and installing a special phrasebook or translator app on it is easy.
- What if I get lost? If you have trouble with spatial orientation, install a GPS navigator on your phone. Google Maps handles this function perfectly. In Europe, Google determines your location with astonishing accuracy.
Be sure to take a business card from the hotel where you are staying. Even if you don't know a single word in a foreign language, you can always show it to a taxi driver, and they will take you directly to the hotel.
- It's very difficult. We won't lie, going to a travel agency and stating your requirements for a resort and hotel is much easier than spending several hours, or even days, searching for advantageous flight options, accommodation, and other travel information. But, despite all the difficulties, independent organization guarantees that your trip will be exactly as you want it!
So, how do you organize an independent trip?
First, decide on your destination. If you're not prone to adventures in life, leave visiting Mozambique or Laos for later. Start with old Europe. Outline an approximate route in advance; you'll adjust it as you prepare.
Where to get information for planning your trip?
Guidebooks, which can be bought in many bookstores, will help you. The most popular editions are "Вокруг Света", "Lonely Planet", "Berlitz", "National Geographic", and "Афиша". Choose the one you like best. Online, country-specific thematic websites, travel agencies, and forums will come to your aid. The most valuable resource, in our opinion, is Vin's forum. Here you will find literally everything, from tips on what to see, to information on visas, airline sales, and traveler reports. And if you have questions, experienced travelers will gladly help you. Another noteworthy resource is the ru-travel community. Once the destination is decided, it's time to get to the tickets. Decide in advance what mode of transport you will use to reach your destination. Keep in mind that a train ticket to Europe will be more expensive than an airline ticket, and it will take more than one day to reach most cities. The most optimal option is a plane. On the pages of this blog, we have repeatedly written about how to find cheap flights on Kupi.com, where to buy them, and when it's best to do so.
I'll repeat the main rule here: buy airline tickets in advance, preferably 6-9 weeks before departure.
You can buy cheap flights on our website - kupi.com! This rule also applies to hotels. Hotel rooms, of course, won't run out, but if you're looking for a place to stay 2-3 weeks before your trip, there won't be many options, and you'll have to compromise between your desires and what booking sites offer.
Speaking of which, you can also book a hotel online. The most popular site is Booking.com; it also has a Russian version, so choosing and paying for a hotel will not be difficult. You can read about the intricacies of booking on this resource here You can also find and book a hotel on other websites; in Russia, some of the most popular are Ostrovok.ru and Oktogo.ru. But don't limit yourself to just hotels; consider apartment rentals. Visit Airbnb.com, and you'll definitely never want to stay in hotels again :) If your budget is tight, look into hostels. You can book them on hostelworld.com and Hostelbookers.com. Keep in mind that hostels are more for young people and those who prioritize experiences over comfort. Find out in advance if you need to obtain a visa. Russians can travel without a visa to one of 90 countries. That's almost half the world! All the latest information on visas can also be obtained on Vin's forum; there you will find up-to-date information on required documents, tips and sample application forms, as well as answers to most questions. If you don't understand something or have an unusual situation, don't hesitate to ask - the forum is designed precisely for this. For official information, it's best to visit the website of the visa center or consulate of the country you are traveling to. Don't forget about medical insurance. According to the requirements of most countries, it is mandatory for obtaining a visa and entry. Don't neglect your safety, especially since it's not expensive at all. Well, now everything is ready, it's time to pack your bags and conquer the world :)
