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The Traveling Barkeep
Philosophy

5 common excuses why people don’t travel

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Too expensive

It is currently cheaper than ever to fly to many popular destinations around the globe. With the right information and savings plans anyone can see the world. Remember to search for deals on hotels, Airbnb, or stay in hostels if you need to stretch your money. I have even met people who have couch surfed to get by.

Check budget airlines for cheap flights and Only bring carry on luggage to save on baggage fees. If possible, opt out of inflight meals to save more. Buying food once you pass the security gate allows you to pinch a few more bucks by bringing it in your carry on. Now if you get hungry in transit, you have snacks and water. Not an overly priced, sometimes subpar meal.

Not enough time

This is a common excuse for many people in the modern work world and a very difficult one to get around.

If you are in the corporate world and struggle to get time away, aim to go on a 10 day vacation instead of a week in order to squeeze a bit more out for your trip. This makes up for the days you are traveling and the flights are sometimes cheaper than a week long trip.

For those of us in the service industry, our jobs become a lot more flexible in the off and shoulder season. Spring and fall are good times to book trips since work can be slow and there are many great deals anywhere in the world.

Cover shifts and pull extra hours a few months leading up to your holiday. This way your boss and coworkers will be more apt to help you accomplish your travel goals.

Don’t speak the language

Communication is key and English speakers are just about everywhere.

If you look hard enough in any major city in the world, you will find one. They may know very little, you may get scowls or a rude remark, but you will find someone eventually.

With that being said, for a richer experience, work on learning the language.

Even if you are terrible at it, try.

Single words and simple phrases can help you to make your travels a much smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Working out the kinks early helps.

Once you are outside of major cities, your chances of finding an English speaker decrease greatly.

It’s better to try to learn another language when you have a higher percentage of finding a local who can aid you in the learning process. Hotel and hostel staff are also good for this.

Can’t find a travel partner

Sometimes we are faced with the harsh truth that nobody wants to or is brave enough to travel with us. When this happens this only leaves one option left. Go it alone.

I’ve seen many solo travelers of both sexes in my travels. This is why I prefer hostels. It allows you to meet other travel companions and exchange valuable information, since some guests have been staying for a while.

Which brings us to the next excuse.

Scared of going alone

Going overseas alone does take a bit of bravery, but fear not!

Most of the countries I have visited, I went to alone. In these journeys I have met many amazing people and had life changing experiences which I simply would have never done if I had been paralyzed by fear.

Just like anything else. The more you do it, the more confidence you will get.

Do your homework before you go.

Check to see if there are any travel advisories, and research local culture and safety tips in order to avoid problems with the locals. If you are still unsure, ask the staff at your lodging any questions or concerns about the area.

A lot of the things that we are afraid of can happen anywhere, even at home.

Don’t let things that probably won’t happen dictate the course of your life and how you live it. Go!

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