1. “To understand what’s going on in the world, you have to see the world” – Aerin Lauder
2. We’re all different yet the same. You really do have something in common with every single person you cross paths with. Be humble & friendly with everyone you meet.
3. Try local food, even if you’re not sure you will like it. Every once in a while go crazy and try street food too!
4. If a taxi is expensive from the airport, 99% of the time there is a public transport option that will take you to the city center for a fraction of the cost.
5. Traveling does NOT have to be an unattainable, super expensive choice. I wrote blog posts specifically on those topics – check out my travel hacks & how to save money while traveling.
6. “Age is no barrier when it comes to travel”
7. Hostels are ok and safe and fun to stay in. Yes they are intended for the budget traveler but with some research, you can find a stellar hostel room to sleep in. Try it at least once for the experience!
8. Leave your phone in the hotel room every once in a while. Learn to disconnect. You are capable of living without internet… try it!!
9. If you’re on a budget, there are always free events to attend – look on FB groups, local newspapers, etc.
10. You will need a convertor for your plugs in many countries. The universal travel adaptor is worth the investment!
11. Certain appliances like your hair straightener are at risk of breaking if the power voltage is different in the country you are visiting. Don’t travel with it and buy a local one instead if you really need it.
12. Beat the lines and get to the most popular spots early OR within an hour or two of closing. Your preference if you’re an early bird or a night owl.
13. Tap water is not always potable – take a water filter with you or buy the 6-10L bottles to refill your water bottle at home.
14. If you’re a female, take your menstrual meds & go prepared. Many countries only use cardboard tampons.
15. Don’t overpack – whatever you might need or accidentally left behind at home, you can always buy in your new destination!
16. Try a non-popular destination to vacation. You’ll be genuinely surprised and pleased to not have to share the place with so many other tourists.
17. You’ll meet solo travelers from other countries almost everywhere you go. If you don’t have someone to travel with, don’t be afraid to travel alone.
18. Always take emergency cash with you and don’t touch it unless you need to. This is a lifesaver if you have issues with your debit/credit card at some point.
19. Ask for help and people will help you. Sounds simple, but sometimes you forget to ask. Even if there is a language barrier, you learn to figure it out.
20. With that being said, learning the basic words in a foreign language such as “hi”, “please”, and “thank you” is common courtesy and the small gesture will go a long way.
21. If you have the time, try learning more than just the basics. “To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world”.
22. If a street performer makes you stop to look, photograph, or record, you owe him a buck.
23. If you’re feeling sick, its okay to stay in while traveling. Meds, OJ and sleep work like magic and the next day you can continue on exploring feeling much much better.
24. Talk to your waiter, hotel staff, tour guide, someone local. Friendship and advice from a local are priceless gifts.
25. Airport waits can be dready if you’re not prepared. Take a book to read or journal to write in, word game, download a movie, etc., to kill time while waiting for your flight.
26. Travel reward credit cards can be a traveler’s best friend. They give you so many benefits like free flights, trip insurance, lounge passes, free checked bags and more. Benefits vary by card – my personal favorite is my Chase Sapphire for point transfer on travel rewards for multiple airlines and hotels. If you have questions on the card, contact me directly – here is my referral link for you!
27. Meet other travelers. Don’t be afraid to start a random conversation with a stranger. Some of my closest friends I met while traveling across the world. 
28. It’s good to have a pre-determined itinerary and places in mind that you want to visit, but don’t forget that it’s also important to be flexible if your plans change and learn to go with the flow.
29. Met someone awesome? Stay connected. Ask for their email or Facebook. You never know when the future will reunite you one day!
30. Traveling makes you more confident. It’s an investment you make in yourself for your own personal growth.
31. Visit the local tourism office – their job is literally to help you for free!
32. Treat yourself! If you’re in Italy or Argentina, treat yourself to a good bottle of wine. If you’re in Indonesia or Thailand, treat yourself to a massage. If you’re in Australia or Paris, treat yourself to a drink or meal in front of the Sydney Opera House or Eiffel Tower. You went all the way there – the extra expense is minimal and the experience is unforgettable!
33. Don’t forget about your friends and family at home. Just because you’re far away, that doesn’t mean you should forget a birthday or congratulate a special event. Let them know you’re thinking of them from afar. 
34. Try new food, have fun nights out, but don’t forget to take care of your body. Just because you’re on vacation, it doesn’t mean your body gets a full break from reality!
35. Safety is always a concern – however I’ve visited third world countries, crossed borders by land and traveled across the world as a solo young female. Just take the necessary safety precautions and don’t let a preconceived idea stop you from visiting an incredible place.
36. Keep an physical or online notepad – there are certain places you will forget the name of and wish you would remember in the future! Writing things down will help you refresh your memories.
37. Always be respectful of local norms and laws. Even if you’re not from there, they still apply to you.
38. Learn how to use the metro (if there is one), and your wallet will thank you. The overall system is easy to figure out after a try or two (this is true even in China!)
39. Leaving online reviews go a long way for small business owners and local entrepreneurs! Remember this at the end of your trip when you have time at the airport or at home!
40. Don’t be afraid to visit an unknown, faraway place. The world is your oyster. For a little extra push, I’m here as your travel guru to help you figure it all out!
40 countries later and soon: #41 Argentina and #42 Uruguay!
See my country list for a list of destinations where I can give you personal recommendations for your next trip!
Contact me as your travel guru to start planning!
Travel Guru Destinations 
Wow! I wonder when will I be visiting my 40th country too. Good reads by the way! 💙
Thank you and safe travels to you!
I love everything about this post. Than you for writing. Thank you for sharing. Thank you for existing. ❤
Hehe thanks so much!
Congratulations!!!