Studying & researching a destination

To the reader asking about how I select and research a destination:

When I research or study a destination before I visit I like to look at these areas. This is not an all-inclusive list but will help provide some guidance and directions. Be sure to identify areas that interest you and focus your study/research in this area too!
Study tools are everywhere. There are travel guides available for purchase in most book stores plus I’ve seen an increase of them in public libraries. A good on-line travel guide can be found at www.lonelyplanet.com.

Speaking of public libraries search their video tape and DVD collections or visit your neighborhood travel agencies. They frequently have tapes & DVDs to loan out plus they have rooms full of travel and tour brochures. Yes these are sales pieces but you can also get a wealth of knowledge out of them. The good brochures are packed with maps, itinerary ideas, hotels plus much more information.

Talk to people that have traveled there. Use them as sounding boards for recommendations, dos & don’ts

The Basics:
· How to get here & how to get around once there
· Weather & climate-this determines when to go & how to pack
· Everyday stuff: entry requirements, languages, currency, electric, political stability, etc
· Where to stay
· What to see & do, what to shop for
· What & where to eat & drink, what are the local specialties and flavors
· Entertainment & recreation
· Local customs & cultures

Your interests:
· Customize your search to meet your needs & special interests and/or those of your travelers.

HINT:
· Keep good notes so you can navigate back to & relocate your research. Your data is useless if you can’t retrieve it. Have fun & learn a bunch.

A knowledgeable and informed traveler normally has a much better travel experience.

Got travel questions or concerns email me at thetravelprofessor@gmail.com.