Handy Tips for First-Time Travelers

July 22, 2021

Traveling is a popular pastime for people from all walks of life. However, the planning stage is one of the most significant steps, and it can determine how well or poorly your trip goes. Below are some essential tips first-time travelers should use to improve their experience, brought to you by the friendly staff at Sands Inn & Suites, a charming hotel near San Luis Obispo visitors love for its outstanding service and comfortable accommodations.

Create a Budget

Things change, and prices can increase within a matter of days. Therefore, it’s best to create a budget and place money aside for emergencies. Having funds allotted gives you a clear picture of what you can do instead of panicking about finances while on vacation. When developing the plan, add extra money to ensure you can cover any unexpected fees and other costs. If your chosen activities or meals end up being less expensive, you can use the extra funds for other things, such as tours, bike rides, beach activities, and souvenirs. You could also put the money into a savings account for your next trip.

Take Tours

As a first-time traveler, you’ll want to see as much of your destination as possible, and tours can make that happen. Whether you take a walking tour or go by boat, bus, or bicycle, it’s essential to sign up. The guide will give you historical details about the sights you wouldn’t receive when taking a stroll alone. Expedition guides also provide you with time to get out and go into popular attractions, allowing you to take photos for your scrapbooks. While on the outing, you can grab bites to eat at popular restaurants and stop at souvenir shops. The type of tour you take will depend on your preferences. You can generally find some half- and full-day voyages, giving you the ability to stay on as long as you would like.

Make Reservations Early

This applies to hotels, restaurants, and various businesses. When booking in advance, you can receive better deals and take advantage of different features and benefits. However, waiting until arrival could lower your odds of getting deals, and in some cases, hotels could be completely booked. In terms of restaurants, walk-in service may not be available at popular businesses. Therefore, you should always make reservations before arriving to secure your spot.

Dive into the Culture

Although popular attractions are at the top of the list for most travelers, it’s best to take advantage of all the local dining and adventures. A mistake most first-time travelers make is sticking to what they hear about instead of trying out new things. Hotel representatives can suggest good spots to visit that may not make the front page of a local guide or travel website. Trying local food and cultural activities could be the best aspect of your trip and a tip you follow on future vacations. After all, you’re traveling to the destination to enjoy the local atmosphere.

If you’re looking for the perfect destination for your first trip, you’re certain to find plenty of fun things to see and do in San Luis Obispo. Bring the whole family (including the four-legged furry members) and explore “The Happiest City in America” while staying with us at Sands Inn & Suites. When they’re looking for a comfortable San Luis Obispo hotel, visitors make us their top choice because we offer all the amenities our guests need for a relaxing getaway, including an outdoor heated pool and spa, an on-site gym, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs with digital cable. Call us at (800) 441-4657 today to reserve your room or suite. 

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