Photo credit: Out the airplane window by tudydamian on Flickr
You have to be rich to travel the world.
This is one of the most pervasive myths about travel, and it’s also patently untrue. While billionaires certainly have no issue chartering a private jet for vacation, it doesn’t take a goldmine to see a few gorgeous destinations. From credit card companies that offer piles of welcome miles to flash-sale sites providing incredibly deep discounts on everything from airfare to vacation packages, you’ll discover a wealth of low-cost options if you just take the time to look.
You can’t go anywhere unless you speak the language.
Though it’s convenient to speak the local language, it’s by no means required. What is required, however, is a basic understanding of respectful phrases. Please, thank you and hello will go a long way in earning you respect with the community.
Conversely, nearly everyone in major cities speaks English.
Some foreign cities are home to an astonishing number of English speakers, but you simply can’t count on it. Never go anywhere with the assumption that you’ll be understood; learn a few basic phrases, and get used to gesturing.
Photo Credit: Airplane cabin by ta on Flickr
First class is the only comfortable way to fly.
It’s definitely more comfortable than economy, but comfort isn’t measured in seat inches alone. Ease of booking and friendliness of service go quite a long way in making your flight enjoyable, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. Plus, many major airlines offer a slightly souped-up version of economy that offers more space for only a few extra dollars.
Weekend trips always cost more than mid-week jaunts.
This depends entirely on where you’re going, when you book your trip and which agency you use. While weekends tend to be more expensive on the surface, you’ll find an array of weekend-getaway deals on sites like Travelzoo, Airfare Watchdog and Jetsetter. What’s more, prices can vary by the hour, so it pays to check rates often.
If you convert your money before you leave, you’ll save loads of cash.
We’re not sure where this started, but too many first-time travelers make this mistake. It may seem more convenient to exchange your currency at home, but the rates are astronomical. Convert only what you need as soon as you land, and then use local ATMs to grab cash for the rest of your trip. Trust us: You could save hundreds of dollars.
Photo Credit: Foreign currency and coins by bradipo on Flickr
Trip insurance isn’t really necessary.
Like any other type of insurance in any other country, travel insurance in Canada protects you against a series of unexpected situations. Never leave home without it; though it seems like an added expense, it’ll pay off should you run into trouble.
You have to book months ahead to score the hottest deals.
While this may have been true in the past, the bevy of modern travel agencies and websites have made it possible to track down a deal at virtually any time before your trip. Last-minute offers are especially alluring; by snatching up a special just a few weeks before departure, you could get access to some of the best discounts on the market.
