As you are packing for your trip, pack lightly. The more stuff you take along with you, the more weight you will have to lug around from the airport to the hotel and into your room. Research the extended weather forecast for your destination so you only pack what clothing you will need during your stay.

Create an itinerary for your trip. Print out a map of the area and mark the places that you plan to go. You will be able to get a good idea about how much time you are going to have to spend traveling from place to place to get where you want to go. Leave a copy of your itinerary with a close friend or family member so they will know when and where you are expecting to go during your trip. Make sure to alert them if there are any changes to your plans.

If you are traveling outside of your country, be sure to select a tourist-friendly hotel. Doing so ensures that you will be able to communicate with at least one person at the hotel. If you do not take the time to find a hotel that is tourist-friendly, you may find that not a single person that works there speaks your language making it difficult to communicate.

Again, if you are traveling outside of your country, learn some of the common and necessary phrases in the local language. You must also be prepared to translate any answers that the locals will give you. Carry a translation book or computer with you to assist you with this.

Research the areas around where your destination is. You need to be aware of any potential dangers or any great attractions that you must see while you are that close. You can usually find this information by utilizing the Internet and all of the resources at your local library.

Visit the museums in the area. You will be surprised at how enjoyable a day in a museum can actually be. You will have a better understanding of the area you visited and have stories to tell when you go back home.

Do not waste all of your time indoors. If the destination that you have chosen is a safe one, get out and walk the streets. You will appreciate the feel of the new city and you will surely find some sites that are not in any tourist catalog. 

If you are traveling with children, be sure to include some activities that they will enjoy. Nearly every culture or city will have activities that entire families can enjoy.

Keep these things in mind as you are making your travel plans. Enjoy the world around you and make memories that will last a lifetime. For more great articles check out http://www.yellow-taxi.co.uk/Table/Blog/ .