Traveling on a Whim

When you’re looking to travel, planning ahead has its benefits. From booking flights to making hotel reservations, everything is perfectly planned out so you don’t have a worry. Even so, there is something to be said for a little spur-of-the-moment action.

Getting into a free-spirited mindset with your trip can lead you down surprising paths, boosting your creativity and happiness. Spontaneous travel decisions like packing your bags and hopping in the car or on a flight allow you to embrace your sense of adventure and curiosity.

There are also countless psychological benefits of flying by the seat of your pants. Taking a spur-of-the-moment vacation can teach you how to be more flexible, manage stress, trust your intuition and allow you to live in the present. Also, not to be overlooked, by embracing spontaneous travel, you can score some great deals too!

KEEP SPONTANEOUS TRAVEL STRESS-FREE WITH THESE TIPS

IN THE AIR

• Many airlines list last-minute deals for the current and following weeks. Pro tip: Choice Privileges (CP) members can also redeem their points for airline miles, including round-trip flights for stateside and international destinations.
• Airline websites like Frontier and Allegiant have everyday low rates. Some airlines slash prices on Sunday and Tuesday for later that week.
• When you book the tickets for your spontaneous travel, fly on weekdays, especially Tuesday or Wednesday, which are more affordable.
• Don’t be afraid to mix and match flights on different airlines. It’s sometimes more cost-effective to buy a one-way ticket.
• Rather than pay full price weeks in advance, you can book the day of and receive significant discounts. And handy apps and sites like GTFO Flights let travelers easily book day-of flights for spontaneous travel.

 Read more HERE 

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

5 Times It's Okay To Get Away

Work. Money. School. You can probably list a thousand reasons why you shouldn’t take a vacation. Still, there are a handful of life-at-a-crossroads moments that are so profoundly life altering, only staying occupied can help you move forward—no matter how determined you are to remain idle. From breakups to new babies, here are five major milestones that demand you heed the call of “I need a vacation” and GO!

YOU’VE GONE THROUGH A BREAKUP

You’ve wallowed in self-pity and eaten your weight in chocolate; now comes the upside of the breakup: making up for lost time. A vacation is a chance to do just that. What other occasion offers so many opportunities to exercise your new autonomy? From choosing the destination to planning the itinerary (or not!), every single decision is up to you. And since some personal TLC is the goal here—and you now only have your own needs to meet and consider—you’ve got the green light to be unapologetically selfish. Bonus: A post-split getaway puts some distance between you and your ex in a way that’s much less cliche than a drastic haircut or a “love lost” tattoo.

YOU’VE GOT A BABY ON THE WAY

If your idea of a vacation is R&R served with a sip of pina colada, brace yourself for this hard truth: That dreamy bubble of beachside hammock naps and dance-’til-dawn evenings pops once you have kids. It’s replaced by a web of logistics relating to car seats, nap schedules, picky eating habits and countless soccer matches—and it remains that way until little Jack or Susie turns 18. OK, so we’re being a tad dramatic, but any parent will tell you that traveling with kids in tow is a real challenge. So if you’re expecting a little bundle of joy (whether it’s your first child or your fifth), be sure to book one last rejuvenating hurrah and relish in some uninterrupted quality time with your partner.

YOU’RE GETTING READY TO RELOCATE

Whatever the reason behind your new address, an upcoming move comes with an oft-overlooked perk: a window of opportunity for travel. Say, for example, you’ve accepted a job offer in a new city. Instead of sliding right into your new role, propose a start date that would allow you to sneak in a quick getaway between gigs. Closing on a new home? Push the date back so you can squeeze in a vacay before having to unpack that mini mountain of moving boxes.

YOU’VE EXPERIENCED A PERSONAL LOSS

When grief and sadness seem inescapable, sometimes the best thing to do is, well, escape. Is that to suggest that your sorrow won’t follow you? No. But you might find that a different setting allows you to confront your emotions from a new perspective. More than just a vacation, a getaway can become a personal, spiritual journey during which you allow yourself the luxury of introspection. How will you move forward? What are you capable of? Answering questions such as these may help you heal.

YOU’RE BETWEEN JOBS

Sure, being unemployed is scary. But it’s also downright invigorating, as the world once again becomes open to countless possibilities. Gone are the long hours, the deadlines, the limited vacation days. Gone is your ability to blame your job for your lack of spontaneity. So crunch some numbers, set a travel budget, and seize the day! You can’t predict when you’ll experience freedom like this again. Who knows? You might even return home with a renewed energy and enthusiasm that helps you land your dream job.

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

5 Travel Tips from Pro Athletes

We learn some of our most important life lessons from sports—teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence and the value of hard work. So it should come as no surprise that many of the habits practiced by pro teams and athletes can by applied to the way we approach our next vacation. Huddle up to learn these champion strategies.

1. Do Your Homework

Teams often prepare for their next opponent by reviewing hours of game film—that’s how they learn about their rival’s style of play, strengths and weaknesses.

As a traveler, you, too, want to develop good research habits. Take the time to craft a game plan for your chosen destination. Read up on air travel experts for insights on where to eat, stay and play. Dive into the best travel advice and reviews from fellow travelers who may have tips on parts of town to avoid or attractions you won’t want to miss. If you do your research, you’ll arrive prepared, make the most of every minute and leave feeling that you took advantage of every opportunity to score.

2. Come Prepared 

You know the old adage: if you want to get better at something, practice, practice, practice. Athletes spend countless hours perfecting their game. Whether it’s taking extra swings in the batting cage or shooting a few more free throws after practice before calling it a day, athletes are aware of their weaknesses and make the most of practice time.

You can follow this advice when you travel. Going hiking? Prior to your vacation, spend an extra few minutes running uphill on a treadmill every time you work out so you get used to the incline. Exploring a new city on foot? Prepare your legs and your lungs by walking a few miles each day in the months or weeks leading up to your trip to ensure you’re in tip top shape for sightseeing.

 Read more HERE

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

An Introvert's Travel Guide

Road tripping with a friend—someone who lends a fresh perspective to sightseeing, great conversation to mealtime and an eagerness to make memories together—sounds just about perfect. Or does it?

According to researcher and Psychology Today contributor Dan Buettner, as many as 50 percent of people identify as introverts, preferring to recharge through alone time and reflection. Travel for introverts, especially when taking a vacation with someone who prefers social stimulation, may sound more stressful than appealing. Thankfully, there are ways for people with different personality types to happily coexist. Read on for our introvert travel guide tips.

1. Come Prepared

 Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones or some earplugs for when you need to shut out the noise of a car, airplane or bus. Let your travel companion know that when your headphones are on, you’re using that time to recharge. Politely ask them not to engage you in conversation until you take them off again. You can also bring an eye mask to give the impression that you’re sleeping—or to take an actual nap!

2. Schedule "Quiet Time"

A full day of sightseeing is exhausting for even the most extreme extroverts, so suggest that you both take some time to relax each afternoon or evening. Declare the hour before dinner “quiet time,” when you take a break to individually read, journal or listen to music (using headphones, of course). This will leave you both refreshed for dinner and any other evening activities.

Read more HERE

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

 

AIRPORT SURVIVAL GUIDE

“Flight delayed” might be the most dreaded phrase for travelers around the world. After all, you planned your trip down to the last detail and are counting on everything going just right. While you can’t do anything to avoid the disruption, you can make the experience less frustrating with a bit of preparation.

BEFORE YOU GO

While nobody wants to face a few extra hours in a terminal, preparing for the possibility can make a delay easier to handle. So, before you go to the airport make sure you have everything you need for a single night’s stay in your carry-on luggage. This will give you easy access to necessities and take a bit of the stress off your shoulders. You’ll also want to have a list of phone numbers handy just in case you need to let people know you’re not going to be landing on time.

SHORT-TERM DELAYS

Even a short delay can seriously throw off your travel plans, especially if you’re traveling for business. And since delays are unpredictable, you’ll want to assume that you’re facing a longer delay than is first suggested. While you wait, ask for food and drink vouchers to make your stay more comfortable. It is also a good idea to go ahead and use your contact list to let everyone know that your flight has been delayed.

OVERNIGHT DELAY

Severe weather can leave travelers stranded overnight, or even a few nights in extreme situations. You’ll want to watch weather reports closely if you plan on traveling during times of the year, or to locations, known for dynamic weather. Immediately ask your airline if they are offering accommodations so that you can be among the first to take advantage of free shuttles or hotel vouchers. And of course, contact everyone waiting for you and let them know you’re going to be delayed overnight.

DELAY TIPS FOR FAMILIES

Travelers with children face a few extra challenges if they find themselves stuck in the terminal longer than expected. Do yourself, and your children, a favor by preparing for the possibility before you even leave your house. Pack age-appropriate distractions in your carry-on, like stickers, a coloring book or a puzzle. Don’t forget to include a couple snacks, a travel pillow and a change of clothes.

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

Holiday Travel Tips

The holidays are steeped in family traditions - opening presents at first light on Christmas Day, napping during the football game on Thanksgiving, lighting the menorah during Hanukkah, inching the car through a traffic jam on the interstate and standing in an airport line that just doesn't move.

To maximize holiday travel happiness and minimize coal-in-the-stocking grief, follow these helpful holiday travel tips compiled by ASTA (American Society of Travel agents). Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA members know the secrets that will help you and your family arrive at Grandma's house full of holiday cheer.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas - Before the Holiday Travel Begins

Contact a travel agent well in advance of your trip to secure the lowest-priced airline seats, hotel rooms and rental cars that usually sell out quickly for holiday travel. Be aware that prices generally escalate during the holiday season, as demand is higher.Packing light saves time and energy when it comes to filling the trunk with fragile bags packed with gifts or racing to fill the last empty space in the overhead bin. Some airlines place special restrictions during the holidays and allow only one carry-on, so less luggage is vital. For detailed tips on how to pack wisely, click here.

One holiday travel tip for packing lighter is to ship your gifts to your destination ahead of time. Allow at least two to three weeks for your package to arrive, for the holidays are hectic times for courier services like UPS and Federal Express.Before leaving, be sure to secure your house. Lock all doors and windows, and don't forget to set the alarm. Also, give your home that lived-in look to repel potential burglars by having a friend collect your mail, setting lights on timers and not leaving details of your trip on the answering machine.

Now Dasher, Now Dancer - Flying During the Holidays

Without a sleigh and eight reindeer, your holiday travel plans will most likely bring you, and millions of others, to the airport. But fear not - with a few precautions and a little TravelSense, your pre-flight schedule will be absent of anxiety.First, avoid peak travel days. As your travel agent will tell you, the busiest days to fly are those immediately before and after the actual holidays. Book your flights two days before and after Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's.Your travel agent can secure you a non-stop flight, or one involving the fewest connections and stops. Every time your plane touches the ground during peak travel times, the possibility of delays due to inclement weather or air-traffic problems increases. Also, aim to book morning flights, which tend to be delayed less often than afternoon departures.

If possible, have a friend drive you to the airport, or take a shuttle or public transportation. Shuttle services generally pick up guests early to ensure a timely arrival. If you drive and park at the airport lot, do not leave any valuables, such as CDs, or GPSs in plain view. Also remember to put jumper cables in the trunk in case the battery dies during your trip.

Take the worry of getting to the airport completely out of the equation by staying at an airport hotel the night before an early flight. The additional sleep is well worth it. In some cases, hotels will allow guests to leave their car in the hotel lot for the duration of their trip, so make a few calls to discover which hotels offer this valuable service.

As flights are sometimes overbooked during the holidays, it's critical to check in early. Domestic travelers should arrive at the airport two hours prior to departure, while international travelers should arrive three hours in advance. Spending an idle hour in the gift shop is much more fun than missing your flight by ten minutes.

If you do not send your gifts ahead, then do not wrap them before the flight. With safety a priority for all airlines, security personnel will need access to all items. Pack collapsible gift bags to be used as wrapping upon arrival.

Keep a positive attitude, but also be mentally ready for setbacks. Delays happen, and airlines do the best they can to keep their schedules on time. Bring water and snacks, an inflatable pillow and eye mask, a good book, your favorite CDs, MP3 player and a deck of cards. Boredom is the true enemy in these situations, so be prepared to conquer it!

Turkeys Can't Fly - Holiday driving Tips for Navigating the Open Road

Most Americans tend not to stray too far from their family's roots, making long drives on the interstate an integral part of the holiday ritual. The first step to ensure a smooth car trip is to keep your car in good working order. As temperatures drop during November and December, being stuck on the side of the road while waiting for an overworked tow-truck driver is not the place to be. Before you leave, have a qualified mechanic check all the car's vitals: brakes, battery, fluid levels, tire pressure, light bulbs and any parts that need regular maintenance.

As with all long-distance winter road trips, it's wise to bring emergency equipment, such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, blankets, drinking water and snacks, along with flares and jumper cables. An ice scraper and chains for the tires will also come in handy. While a white Christmas is great for the memories, it's not ideal for winter driving conditions.

Pad your schedule to allow plenty of time for the drive. Like shopping malls, the roads are busiest on the days right before and after the major holidays. If possible, take an extra day off to reduce the chances of being lodged in a traffic jam.Once on the road, drive carefully, patiently and stifle any burgeoning impulses of road rage. Try not to view other cars and traffic signals as personal obstacles. Work with your fellow drivers and not against them. Indicate during lane changes and give everyone plenty of room. Also, be forgiving when someone demonstrates reckless driving.

Don't leave valuables in your car. Pack all items, especially brightly wrapped packages, in the trunk. If afraid of squashed bows, wait until you arrive to wrap the gifts. Overall, try to make driving fun, and view it as part of the holiday, not as a chore. If traveling with children, get everyone involved by singing or reminiscing about favorite past holidays. The ride will be over before you know it, and you'll actually look forward to the drive back home.

Giving Thanks - Arriving Safely Is Thanks Enough

If Santa can travel safely year in and year out, so can you and your family. Just remember these tips from the friendly travel agents at ASTA. With a little TravelSense, everyone will be home for the holidays with warm memories to share.

 Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

Happy Thanksgiving!

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

How To Pack For Your Kids For Vacation

 

Written by Jennifer Denniston for Lonely Planet 

 

As a travel writer, I've raised my kids on the road. After dozens of family trips by planes, trains and automobiles, months spent living out of a duffel with newborns and teenagers, and plenty of mistakes and mishaps, I've learned a thing or two about packing for a family. Here’s everything you need to know to pack like a pro for your next family trip.
Know your baggage limits

If you're flying, don't start packing until you know the luggage weight and dimensions you can take on the plane. Check in advance about carry-on regulations for your departure airports as well as your airlines' baggage and weight limits. Baby formula, baby food and breast milk are usually allowed in reasonable quantities beyond the regulation carry-on liquid size, and most airlines do not charge for checked car seats, cribs and strollers.


Store essentials in a single day-pack

Consolidate everything that truly matters into one small, light backpack (and don’t let it out of your sight). That means paperwork (passports, tickets and a printed itinerary with hotel and transport details and reservation numbers), stuffed animals the kids can't sleep without, and anything difficult or expensive to replace. Start with your wallet, a cell phone and charger, prescription sunglasses, prescription medication, painkillers (for children and adults), plasters, an iPod (loaded with family favourites) and charger, a headlamp, an international adapter.

Make a list of stuff you absolutely can’t forget (like prescription medication) and tape it to your front door for final checks before you leave.


Use packing cubes to organise your stuff

Sorting items into sturdy, lightweight, canvas zipper bags eliminates the stress of digging through suitcases. Label your packing cubes so each child has one for 'bottoms', 'tops', and so on. Once on the road, dirty clothes go into a designated laundry cube.

Decide what you need to access on the road

In addition to a day-pack full of essentials, we carry an ‘Easy Access Bag’, a canvas tote or backpack (with convenient zipped pockets) that holds everything we might need to reach quickly on the road:

• Infant supplies
• Water bottle, snacks and gum (if flying, to ease ear pain)
• Entertainment, like paperback books, coloured pencils and a sharpener, colouring and sticker books, drawing paper, card games and other travel-sized activities
• Pyjamas, toothbrushes and toothpaste
• An extra pair of clothes and a compact fleece for each child
• An address book with stamps (for the kids' postcards)
• A portable DVD player, headphones and splitter, the charger and a handful of favourite DVDs and new ones purchased just for the trip.

Complete the arsenal in your checked luggage

If you don’t need it until your final destination, stow it away in your checked luggage. This is the stage where you risk over-packing, so lay out everything you think you'll need and then go through with a critical eye, taking out items you can leave behind.

• Medicine and first-aid essentials. Include medication for allergic reactions, upset stomachs, ibuprofen, anti-itch cream, Vaseline, a thermometer, bandages and plasters, antiseptic cream, tweezers and a pin protected by a wine-cork (for splinters), nail clippers and a hot water bottle.
• Clothing: think small, versatile, and layers. Pack comfortable favourites, but leave behind jewellery and clothes with sentimental value. Balance what they'd love to have against what they'd hate to lose. Don't skimp on underwear and socks, bathing suits, and add a second pair of PJs if there’s room.
• Waterproofs. Pack rain coats and (for younger kids) rain pants. Galoshes are a must if you're going to a rainy destination. Save room by packing your shampoo, soap and sunscreen, stored in a resealable bag (bring some spares), into the empty galoshes.
• Empty duffel. If you acquire a lot of souvenirs along the way, it might even be easier to mail them home.

Bulky baby gear: rent or carry?

Several services offer baby-gear rental and infant supplies. Depending on the service, they can be waiting for you at your hotel or delivered to the airport.

Personally I bring my own gear. All I really need is a baby carrier like a Baby Bjorn (babybjorn.co.uk); car seats; an umbrella stroller that is light, comfortable, and easy to fold (I like Maclaren - shopmaclarenbaby.com); and a portable crib. When choosing a portable crib, consider size, ease of assembly, and comfort – check out the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib (babybjorn.com), Phil and Ted’s Traveler Crib (philandteds.com), or the Koo-Di Bubble for Babies (koo-di.co.uk).

And finally… teach your kids to pack

I involve my kids in the packing process not because it's easier on me (it isn't), but because it builds their excitement for the trip. It also eases the anxiety that comes with leaving home. We discuss what to expect and what we might need, and pick out a few new toys, books and activities to enjoy on the road.

About a week before the trip, each child packs her own carry-on bag. When my youngest was a toddler, she squeezed as many stuffed puppies as she could into her pull-along blue elephant bag. She packed what she knew she needed (and took her job very seriously) but I packed what Iknew she needed.


Now aged 14 and 11, our girls love thinking about the trip, planning for the trip, anticipating the trip. And as a mother and a traveller, I love that they love that. But I still make sure that we all have what we need, and that I know exactly where to find it.

 Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

Tips For Traveling While You're Pregnant

 

Written by Jamie Bartosch for USA Today

Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t travel. It just means you need to do a little more just-in-case planning.

Most doctors and airlines discourage traveling after you’ve hit the eight month (32 weeks) mark. For the rest of the gestation period, it’s good to take a few extra precautions. Whether it’s a long car ride, a business trip or a babycation, here’s some advice from experts and OB-GYNs on how to make sure you and your baby arrive back home safely.

1. Get an aisle seat.

You’ll need to go to the bathroom and walk around more than usual. Since planes and trains are usually full, getting in and out of the window seat might be a tight squeeze. Also, on airplanes, experts advise you buckle your airplane seatbelt below your belly rather than across it, so an unexpected jolt wouldn’t cinch your middle.

2. Don’t sit for extended periods of time.

If you’re on a long trip, get out of your seat and walk around every two hours, even for just a few minutes. That’ll keep blood circulating to your legs, body, and the baby. If you’re in a car, sitting on a pillow might make the ride more comfortable.

3. Stay hydrated.

Water evaporates more readily from the skin when you’re pregnant, so it’s easier to get dehydrated. Avoid fluid loss by drinking as much water as possible. Becoming dehydrated will not only make you weak and sick, but it can affect amniotic fluid and blood flow to the baby.

4. For international travel, get a list of recommended doctors.

Check with your hotel, or the country’s U.S. Embassy, for a list of recommended English-speaking doctors and medical professionals. Just in case.

5. Sanitize.

On a plane or train, you’re going to be sharing a lot of surfaces with your fellow travelers. Do what you can to avoid picking up germs and infections, such as extra hand washing, surface sanitizing, and, with your doctor’s permission, a flu shot (it can take 2 weeks for the vaccine to kick in, so plan accordingly).

6. Consult with your doctor, especially if you’re in your third trimester.

Ask your doctor for a copy of your prenatal chart. That way, in case of problems or early labor, the doctors treating you will have an idea of how the pregnancy has been going. You also could request pregnancy-safe prescriptions to bring along, like azithromycin (for diarrhea), or Scopolamine (behind-the-ear patches for nausea).

7. Don’t lay in the sun.

While a babycation to the Caribbean might sound good, laying in the sun isn’t. You don’t have to spend the entire time under a beach umbrella, but some doctors believe you should limit your sun time. Some doctors suggest no more than 20 minutes at a time. Pregnancy makes women more sensitive to the sun‘s rays, and can worsen skin discoloration pregnant women are prone to (called melasma). Plus, whether pregnant or not, too much sun can cause skin to wrinkle and age, and is a primary cause of skin cancer.

 Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

8 Travel Apps That Will Save You a Fortune

Travel apps can be a lifesaver when you’re looking to save a bit of money on that upcoming trip. Nowadays, traveling with a phone is a must and from Google maps to Yelp, we use apps on a daily basis when traveling. The following 8 apps are a few of our favorites because they provide easy ways to save money on travel expenses. As a bonus, all 8 apps are free!


Gas Buddy

Gas Buddy is simple and efficient. Provide the app with your location, and it will search nearby stations to let you know where you can find the cheapest gas. You’ll never again spend more at the station you can see from the street, only to go a bit further along and realize that you could have saved five cents. We use this app on all of our road trips.

Hotel Tonight

If you’re one for spontaneous adventures and saving money, then Hotel Tonight offers the perfect solution by loading up last-minute deals of hotel rooms that are still available. Since they haven’t been booked yet, the prices are about as low as they get, and the Hotel Tonight app makes it easy to go ahead and snag one of the rooms for yourself.


Transit App

Public transportation is a well-known way to save money on getting around a new area, but wading through the schedules can be a chore, if not entirely confusing. Cue Transit App, which pulls departure times for all nearby transit lines in an easy-to-read format. It does, however, only work in certain regions, so check ahead of time whether or not it’ll be useful for you.


Compare Bookings

Compare Bookings is a powerful search engine that will return results from all of the various travel sites so that you can quickly find the best deal. They also offer a hotel search engine with some filters so that you can find exactly the kind of hotel you want.


Kayak

Kayak does it all: you have the power to search for hotels, flights, and cars, keep track of your trips, and even track your flights. Providing one location for so many useful features helps you save money on your trip and also serves as a great time-saver.


Groupon

Groupon searches for deals on restaurants, things to do, and hotels so that you don’t need to do any of the work yourself. Use the “nearby” search feature to find deals near you or the “getaways” search feature to find discounts for upcoming trips.

XE Currency

XE Currency makes calculating prices accessible by constantly tracking current exchange rates. If you’re traveling between countries with different currencies, it’s a must have!


Uber

If you want to get anywhere, Uber is there for you. As a company that provides drivers to take you from point A to point B, Uber is usually cheaper than cabs, and you don’t need to make a phone call! Just plug in your starting point and the desired destination and Uber will send a driver your way. Once you enter your credit card details into the app, everything is taken care of; you don’t need to worry about having cash and you don’t even need to have your physical credit card on hand.

Written by Christy Woodrow for Ordinary Traveler 

Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico

Travel Tips for the Solo Female Adventurer

 

Traveling alone doesn’t have to seem lonely. Personally, my solo travel jaunts have always been very fulfilling experiences, where I’ve learned a great deal about myself. Nothing gives you quite the same chance at self-discovery as travel, and when you’re setting off by yourself that opportunity doubles. Solo travel does mean that you’ll be facing every little bump and challenge by yourself, but relying on your own ingenuity also means realizing how capable you really are! Keep these tips in mind to help you discover your best self on the road.


Have a Plan

While it’s not necessary to fully map out every minute of your travel vacation, it is good to know your basic itinerary in advance. Make sure you know important data like flight info, your hotel address and phone number, and any emergency contact information beforehand, and that you have access to one or more copies of it. Keep the information in your phone. Print a copy and keep it with your important documents. Being prepared now helps avoid complications later.

For added support and security, give a copy of your itinerary and contact information to a loved one at home and check in regularly by phone or email.


Don’t Panic When the Plan Changes

Trains will be late. Your suitcase will break open. You will get lost and be wholly unable to find your hotel in the maze of unfamiliar streets. It’s okay. Complications and chaos are a natural part of travel. Even though solo travel means less baggage to manage and less people to corral, it won’t fully eliminate the risk. The difference between a travel horror story and an exciting adventure to share later is all in your willingness to adapt in the moment and your attitude in hindsight.

Take a deep breath, find somewhere to sit and think (preferably with WiFi access) and come up with a new plan. You’ll get there when you get there and it will still be enjoyable.


Remain Open to New Opportunities

One of the best parts of traveling alone is that you don’t have to stick to the itinerary if a better opportunity comes along. With no one to coordinate plans, you’re free to change them! This can be as simple as deciding which activity to pursue in the moment, checking out of a hotel early, or even staying later if you’re having too great a time to leave! Just make sure to adjust your itinerary’s important information and to let anyone who might be expecting you know about your change of plans.


Always Carry Important Documents

Always, always, always carry your emergency documents hidden somewhere on you. Hidden travel wallets are perfect for this purpose. I also keep a photo of my passport on my phone and in my email, just in case.

Include identification (your passport or a photocopy), emergency cash or a credit card (make sure it will be compatible with local currency or ATMs), and contact information for the hotel where you are staying, as well for anyone who you might be checking in with regularly. This will not only help you in case of a minor trouble (pointing at an address is much easier than trying to speak a foreign language if you end up lost) but can also be used to keep your loved ones informed in case of an emergency such as unplanned hospitalization.
Written by  Christy Woodrow for Ordinary Traveler

 Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico
2205 N Date St
Truth or Consequences NM 87901
575-894-1660
Comfort Inn and Suites - New Mexico