Tino Roco, a tour designer for adventure travel company The Flash Pack in the UK, shares the things that can ruin a trip that travelers often make. He specializes in creating itineraries for solo travelers around the world.
Only check in at famous attractions
Exploring off-the-beaten-path locations always adds a little thrill to your trip. Tino Roco shares that he has led tours through popular destinations like New Orleans and the bright lights of the French Quarter, but he has found local bars in less touristy neighborhoods that have great vibes and world-class jazz, even if the location is not on the itinerary and takes a little searching.
Take time for new places.
Try something new and unique at your destination. For example, if you have the opportunity to travel to Patagonia (Southern Chile), you can dine in a cave surrounded by prehistoric rock art and candlelight. When you ride the cable car up Table Mountain in Cape Town (South Africa), consider abseiling. Hiking to Petra, an archaeological site in southwest Jordan, or camping on a secret island in the Philippines... are also considered ways to enjoy famous places in a new way.
No flexibility in schedule
No matter how much you plan, things can go wrong. Even if things don’t go as planned, try to stay positive and relaxed. Sometimes, spontaneous moments can lead to memorable experiences.
Traveling alone requires a flexible schedule.
For example, if the restaurant you want to go to is full, you can try to indulge in street food and live performances instead. Or if your flight is delayed, instead of waiting in frustration and disappointment, you can chat with other travelers who introduce you to a new culture.
"In my opinion, the best trip is when you know how to make the most of your 'dead' time. Also, allow yourself the opportunity to leisurely wander around and explore new places in your own way," Tino Roco said.
Lack of initiative and openness
The activities, accommodations, and weather all play a role in the trip. But it’s the people you meet along the way that make it great. In his years of planning adventures and working as a tour guide, Tino Roco has learned that a positive, open attitude energizes the entire trip.
Talking to strangers is a way to make your trip more positive.
You can also choose to travel alone or with strangers to try new experiences. If you are traveling alone, consider joining some group activities such as island hopping or joining a food tour. These will help you connect with locals and like-minded travelers.
Not integrating with local life
Exposure to local cultures broadens knowledge.
Whenever you visit a new place, try to enjoy the landscape, music, art, and culture that you can’t find anywhere else. If you have a lot of free time, spend a few days exploring a particular neighborhood, talking to the locals, going to local restaurants and shops, and observing their lives. Tino Roco says that locals often share interesting facts and secrets that you never knew about the land they live in.
