TRAVEL BITES

NEWS, TIPS AND ADVICE TO GET YOU PACKING FOR THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME

• Think about the season you travel in – summer isn’t always the best option. Avoid the crowds and consider the cosy atmosphere and lower prices of winter, or try spring when everything is coming into bloom and temperatures are warming up but it’s not too hot. Autumn is also beautiful for its changing colours and moody morning mists.

• Consider a 7-10 day tour as part of your overall itinerary. Get the most out of a specific region with expert hosts as you sit back and let someone else take care of the details. The Globus Undiscovered series of itineraries through Italy, the Mediterranean or Britain will get you off the beaten track and straight into the heart of these popular travel destinations.

• Pre-book airport transfers for your arrival. After a long flight, the last thing you’ll feel like doing is trying to find your way around a foreign city.

• While travelling, do your part for the environment and reduce waste. Small things can make a difference − pack a drink bottle (remember to have it empty for going through customs) and a reusable coffee cup if you like to drink a lot of coffee. A packable shopping bag or two, reusable shower cap and a travel washing line are also handy.

• Flying via the US? Don’t forget your ESTA even if you’re just in transit. Make sure you use the official US government website (esta.cbp.dhs.gov) otherwise you’ll pay much more through broker sites, which are easily mistaken for the official site.

• Try to look at things from different perspectives – pop back to historical sites at night as sometimes they’re just as amazing in the evening light, look for special tours or classes that fit with the area you’re in, such as biking tours, cooking classes in foodie locations, art classes or wine tours.

• Work with your local travel agent for expert ideas on putting your itinerary together.