Before leaving on and during your travels, it's always wise to do some research. Learning something about your destination can only enhance your experience. Here are a few idea's where you can research, learn and discover before jetting of to explore the world!
Travel Forums
Forums are great place to ask questions about your travel plans. Many people on the forums have already traveled to where you're going. Don't forget to search the forum and read older posts, many questions have already been answered!
Guide Books
Guides are a great to read before leaving, on arrival and during your travels. Most will have history, culture, do's & don'ts sections. So study up and learn as much as possible. If the books have a language section, try learning the basic (Hello, Thank you, Good Bye etc), the locals will love it!
Whilst guide books are great, don't be afraid to leave it in your bag and explore! Remember a guide book is just that, it is NOT a bible!
Blogs
There are literally millions of travel blogs out, many written by travelers currently on the road. So search and find the ones relevant to your travels.
Travel Companies
Many travel companies publish glossy books outlining their tours. Generally speaking, these companies travel to the popular and best towns with in a given country, helping you to plan a route or get idea's on what to see and what to miss.
On The Road
One of the best sources of information is other travelers and Locals. Having a chat over beer or fruit shake you can learn plenty just by listening. Find out what's good, how much things are, good hostels, how to get there, cheap eats and much more.
Wing It!
This is one of the greatest and most full filling ways to travel. Pick a destination and go! It's not for everyone, but it's a great way to travel. No plans, no commitments. Just go with the wind.
