Top Six Travel Myths
By: Carrie Fulton
October 10, 2023
We've been told these ideas are fact...but let's take a deeper look!
1. Travel is a waste of money
The older we get the fewer things we need, but we crave time with those we love most. Finding time together can be hard in our daily lives, but time away with our favorite people removes the distractions and allows us to really focus on who we are with and where we are.
Travel enriches our life by teaching us about others, history and culture. The more we learn about others the more we realize we have more things in common than divide us.
2. It's cheaper to book flights on Tuesdays
There is no data to back this up! There is no specific day that is cheaper to book flights. But it IS cheaper to fly ON a Tuesday or Wednesday than other days of the week.
The WORST time to book flights is 2-4 weeks before travel. Typically, those that book their travel during this time are business travelers so carriers will charge more to exploit corporations versus the personal traveler.
3. Circulated air on flights makes you sick
Passengers on a plane actually inhale a combination of fresh air and recirculated air which go through HEPA filters. That recirculated air is important as it has been heated and manages humidity in the cabin.
The air is circulated from the top of the cabin to the bottom rather than the front of the plane to the back. So if you do catch a cold after a flight, it's more likely due to simply being run down and out of your routine rather than breathing the air on the plane.
4. The best place to exchange money is the airport
The airport will likely be the most convenient place for you to exchange currency, but it is the WORST place financially. The exchange rate is excessively higher at the airport. Instead go call your local bank at least a week before your travel. You'll be able to order what you need and have the most reasonable rate.
If you don't get the local currency, most places will accept your credit card making exchanging currency unnecessary. However, when you do pay using your credit card, make your purchase in the currency native to where you are spending. Your credit card will manage the exchange rate better than any individual store or restaurant.
5. Always pick a hotel that serves breakfast
A free breakfast can be nice and convenient, but many times it's subpar food at an inflated rate. Let's find a memorable, nearby place for a delicious menu instead.
Pass on breakfasts at hotels with an extra fee for it since many places will charge $40 per person per night for breakfast to be included. I'd rather spend those dollars on a great breakfast or use the money to cover breakfast AND lunch.
6. Travel is restful
Can vacations be relaxing and restful? You bet!! There's a difference between a vacation and a trip. A vacation is a chance to have down time and renew your spirit. Trips are a time of exploration and adventure. Trips challenge you to grow your perspective and allow you to return to your regular life with an appreciation for living.
Travel whether a vacation or a trip breaks up your routine and boost creativity. So, when you get home, you're more productive and focused just like when you take a mid-day walk, you return with a clearer head ready to tackle whatever you need to do next.
Thinking of traveling soon, email me at CFulton@WishesFamilyTravel.com to get planning soon!