5 tips before finalising the exclusive honeymoon trip

The wedding is the biggest event in everyone’s life and as soon as the wedding dates are decided we start working on our never-ending to-do list. We start planning for every single event to make it exclusive especially honeymoon trip. It is right to be thoughtful and plan these holidays well with your fiancé as it is surely going to be once in a lifetime trip.

Honeymoon Trip
Source -www.naturehillstation.in

I still remember when we had to plan ours; my husband asked me to do some research. Then he asked me few questions and my choices, to make it easier for choosing the final place among the shortlisted destinations. All this helped us in short listing and planning our holidays.

Now, these tips along with research can help newly hitched or to be hitched couples in narrowing and deciding  on their honeymoon trip.

  1. Determine how far and how much time you both can spare for your holidays

Discuss with your spouse openly how far you both can travel? How much time you both can spare for honeymoon trip? How many leaves you both have or can avail? Is travelling extensively comfortable with you and your fiancé? A destination like Europe and America require lot many hours of travelling and sometimes connecting flights. Throw in the fact of time zone too, to get mentally prepared to get acclimatised. Some of the places may be your dream destinations. But don’t panic or push on each other for that destination! You can plan a trip to your dream destination some other time.

Apa Villa Thalpe, Sri Lanka- Honeymoon Trip

  1. Choose a theme

Choose with your fiancé what type of trip you both want to take – relaxing, adventurous, romantic, peaceful, road trip, cultural or nature. A romantic relaxing honeymoon trip on the beach resort, getting suntanned and sipping wine can be on many couples list. So, one can consider Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bali, Bora-Bora etc from the long list. Streets of Paris and Gondola ride of Venice; dressed up like a princess are on the list of others. So, one can opt for them too, if looking for romantic, cultural spots.

Phi Phi Island, Thailand, Honeymoon Trip

  1. Fix up your budget

After short listing destinations according to the theme, next is to set up the budget for the decided number of days. This is where you and your partner need to sit and discuss frankly how much you should spend. There is no limit to spending but budgets always help. The other option can be to collect funding through honeymoon wedding registry . Some of the links for honeymoon holidays registry are: (https://www.honeyfund.com/; http://www.zankyou.com/us/honeymoon-wedding-registry )

Ranikhet Uttrakhand, India - Honeymoon Trip

  1. Decide on when to leave for honeymoon trip

Sometimes, leaving immediately for honeymoon trip after wedding doesn’t go well with your schedules or with the weather conditions of that place. So, do a quick research to know the weather conditions of the chosen destinations at the time of your travel. Also check for the local festivals, crowds at the time of your travel. For e.g. – If you are travelling to Europe in August, many of the towns are closed for vacations that time and in January, February it will be very cold. So, this all can change your decision. You can also consider travelling during off season to cut off the costs and experience more.

Honeymoon Trip
Source – www.destinationweddingmag.com
  1. Get Bookings done early 

Honeymoon holidays are not the time to experiment. Everything needs to be perfect. Don’t wait till last moment. At last moment, flights, hotels, everything will cost you much more than the actual amount. Look for the honeymoon packages, deals and check the hotel’s reviews and recommendations before booking. Read some travel blogs to get more insights.

Inform hotel about your honeymoon. They may charge you more but you will also get the room with better view and sometimes a complimentary dinner too.

So, planning honeymoon trip in not a big task. Talking everything candidly and planning together will act as a catalyst to your new married life. And I say travel solves every couple’s problem and it can save your marriage.

What all I learnt traveling around the world

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page” 

– Saint Augustine

Wow! What a quote on travel. Saint Augustine said everything in a phrase for which I need paragraphs to explain. Travel is my life and it is beyond everything. I had been traveling around the world not for a break to relax my mind but to explore and learn what I couldn’t learn through my books or under the guidance and to spend the qualitative time with my husband.

Traveling Around the world

Travel has polished and enriched me in every sense from being kind, patient and philosophical. I see the whole world with a different perspective and vision. So, now my life philosophy has changed and I repeatedly say “Invest in a book called – Travel. Get as many stamps in your passport as you can. Build up your own catalog of pictures and memories. Tomorrow there should be no regret of missing on anything”.

There is no end to what traveling around the world gave and taught me. I still want to quit rest and learn more. So, I have listed few lessons which travel around the world had already taught me so far.

  1. You explore new things what you haven’t done till today

Travel compels you to come out of your comfort zone and experience what is real life. It makes you realize that grass is not always green on the other side and sometimes it is the most challenging role to perform. The conversations with locals tell you how different lives can be with the common shared commonalities. Travel also makes you learn how you have to manage each penny when you have budgeted amounts.

Traveling Around the World

  1. Learn about new culture

While traveling around the world, you explore small towns, villages and of course big cities.  You meet different people; see different things, foods, different cultures, and traditions from yours. All this can’t be explored on the internet or taught by anyone but  all this can only be experienced. Might be some of the cuisines or cultures becomes your favorite and you imbibe that in yourself.

Thailand - Traveling Around the world

  1. The whole World is not that advance and every Human just wants to be happy

Traveling around the world will make you realize that the whole world is not that advanced as you think.  Every child is not spending time playing Xbox or teenager is not going to club. Still, children play in the puddles and enjoy making toys with the waste. But they are happy. They have cultivated their happiness in their surroundings. So, happiness is immaterial and comes from inside and thoughts. One can be happy in mountains, beaches, mansions, villas or just in a small house. But the prime goal for all human in all countries everywhere in the globe is just Happiness.

Happy Humans- Traveling Around the world

  1. Travel gives a new perspective to life

I stated in the second point that you learn about new cultures, new people, new cuisines etc. But in depth, all of these are some or more related. All the humans have same needs and same desires. It is just in the name of religion and politics people and countries are pulled apart. Still, there is a feeling of brotherhood and kindness for tourists and travelers.

Your family, your friends, and your job everything is important but there is much more in life. You learn to prioritize what is important and what is not. Travel around the world really helps you to broaden your horizons and think out of the box.

Jaipur - Traveling around the world

  1. Talking to strangers is not always bad

During travel, conversation with a stranger especially locals help you in learning more about that place. They guide you on what needs to be explored and what cannot be missed on. Locals actually help you to experience and live in that culture. And your fellow travelers on the move can help you with their travel guides and tips. Simultaneously you will have a new bunch of friends to go on the adventures together.

  1. You don’t need to plan everything in your life

Sometimes unplanned things and destinations lead you to beautiful experiences. I agree that planning is good but sometimes it can make you miss the awesome things you could have experienced otherwise. So, let the things go with their own flow especially with travel. You might fall in love with the place and want to embrace their culture and traditions. It is cool to get lost in unknown places to experience the most random and amazing things.

Sr Lanka - Traveling Around the world

  1. Certain things cannot be changed

There is no point of taking stress about the certain small things like missed bus or hotel booking or flight. Breathe with the situation and accept it. Instead, stress will dampen your morale and ruin your day. Traveling is all about fun, learning, exploring and seeing new good things. Learn from every mistake and situation so you organize the things better next time.

Overall traveling around the world had made me much more patient, knowledgeable and kind. And these are just a few lessons which I have learned till today. There is so much more to learn and explore. Life is short so enjoy and live every moment, whatever makes you happy.

Read the related post – 7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

List of Trekking Gears for the Himalayas

In addition to the list of trekking accessories, there are some trekking gears which are essential and must carry while you hike the great Himalayas.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas
Source -makaluadventure.com

So, here is the Trekking Gears List

  1. Head Lamp, Torch & some extra batteries

The place where you usually plan or go for a trek doesn’t have a regular power supply. So for regular walk and use of toilet you need a torch or headlamp. Headlamps are better than torch as they light your way and simultaneously keep your hands free. So, it is a must carry trekking gear in your backpack.

  1. Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are essential for uphill as well as downhill climb. They not only provide you extra support but only protect your knees from bruising. Most people don’t prefer using them but I am a big fan of trekking poles as a trekking gear. If you are not carrying one, no worries- you can rent a trekking or walking stick from the local markets.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas

  1. Travel Towel

Tents and guest house doesn’t provide you towels for bathing or hand wiping. So, carry your own travel towel which can dry quickly, preferably microfiber type.

  1. Backpack

You will be carrying the whole of the stuff on your shoulders while climbing up and down. So, the size and comfort of the backpack are very important as a trekking gear.  I always recommend a backpack bigger than your essentials (not bigger than #45) but not that big which makes you uncomfortable and pushes you down. Always include a backpack rain cover to protect your backpack from getting wet, if it rains.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas

Also, check the list of Backpack for a weekend getaway.

  1. Sleeping Bag

To experience camping, you need a sleeping bag in your tent. Sleeping bags will keep you warm and cozy at high altitudes. If you don’t want to increase your load, you can rent the same but at the same time, we recommend you to take your own sleeping bag liner. It will be more hygienic and will add extra layer to the bag. I like Wildcraft sleeping bag which is comfortable till 5degree Celsius temperature dip.

  1. Hydration Bladder

Hydration bladder works better than the water bottles as they are kept in the backpack and they supply water through hose even when your hands are preoccupied. I personally avoid buying disposable water bottles in the Himalayas to decrease undue pollution. Camelbak hydration packs are really a wonder.

  1. Sunglasses, Sunscreens, and Hats

In mountains, the sun is brighter and rays are highly powerful. So, always wear hats and good sunscreen with high SPF to protect yourself from harmful UV rays and sunburns. The Sun’s reflection off the snow can also cause permanent damage to eyes, so protect your eyes with good sunglasses. There are categories for sunglasses for different altitudes.  Categories 1-2 are good for sea and 3-5 for bright sun at higher altitudes.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas
Source -www.antarcticaxxi.com
  1. Camera

Don’t forget to carry the camera, if you really want to fulfil your photography passion. You will get to see unexplored, undamaged landscape and scenic beauty. This will help you to document your trip into words with photographs. Also, carry extra battery packs and recharge them wherever you get a chance.

  1. Basic necessities

The basic necessities include toilet roll, soap, wet wipes and certain medicines like painkillers, lozenges, crepe bandage, antiemetic (vomit) and band-aids. You might not need these medicines but if required you will not get anywhere. So, always carry them as a precautionary measure.

10.Snacks

Carry and keep handy, some snacks like nuts, granola bars, and chocolate to munch in between the trek. These snacks will help you replenish your lost energy levels immediately.

So, plan your next trek with a list of these trekking gears and accessories and share your pictures for us to experience more.

 

5 essential trekking accessories for The Himalayas

For some a break from their busy and mundane routine means spending the whole time in their bed, for others, it will be going for a trip to the scenic place where they can relax and chill. But there are few for which the break means adventure, the action – like a trek to the Himalayas. For Himalayan trek apart from physical and mental fitness, you need to backpack with proper trekking accessories and gear to make it a success.

trekking accessories for the himalayas
Source – www.nepal-uncovered.com

So, here we have shortlisted 5 essential trekking accessories to expedite the Himalayas.

  1. Trekking Clothes

In mountains, the weather is notorious. Temperature changes drastically during the course of the day, especially at high altitudes. Suddenly it gets windy and chilly even after being sunny. So, it is better to be equipped and clothed than to get sick. We recommend having certain layers while hiking the Himalayas.

The base layer is which you wear next to your skin. Choose a lightweight thermal “wicking” apparel means those apparels which can wick the sweat and moisture away from your body. In layman terms, these wicking apparels won’t let your clothes get wet, even though you may be sweating. This clothing also keeps you warm during the cold and cools during hot. Avoid cotton clothing as they cling to skin when wet and doesn’t dry out easily.

Mid Layer is one which keeps you warm. Choose fleece tops, vests, %CODE2% and keep them handy so they can be worn whenever required while trekking. Look for the vents in fleece jackets as they help to regulate body temperature. Also, add trekking trousers with pockets to your trekking accessories lots. These trousers act as wind cheaters and they dry quickly when wet. Avoid wearing jeans while trekking as they become heavy and give side rashes when wet.

Trekking Clothes - Trekking Accessories

Top Layer keeps you dry when it rain, and snow. The outer layer is just like a shell that protects you from all the harsh elements. Wear Gore-Tex, jackets/ membranes that are water resistant, dry easily, and breathable. You can choose from brands like North face , Roxy snow etc. Also, make sure that top layer fits well over base and mid layer.

  1. Trekking Shoes & Boots

Shoes are the most important part of your hiking essentials. They either make your trip easy or tough. Long hikes can also result in sore feet and blisters if shoes are uncomfortable. Choose shoes which are waterproof, and dry easily. I personally favour Garmont Nagevi shoes. Preferably one can also look for mid-ankle or high ankle boot as they will support ankle too. Do carry a pair of sandals or flip-flops to wear in the evenings or when you need a break from your shoes.

Trekking Shoes & Boots - Trekking accessories

For Blister prevention

  • Make sure your shoes fit properly
  • Wear double layer of socks and inner layer should be one which wicks moisture from the feet
  1. Trekking Socks

Inner Layer – Invest in good liner socks. Liner socks are thin socks made up of wool, silk or synthetic. Say complete no to cotton socks as they retain moisture rather than wicking and doesn’t dry completely.

Outer layer – Wear thick socks (woollen or synthetic) that provide insulation and cushion. For summer hikes, wear thin hiking socks; thicker when your feet need more cushion and super thick mountaineering socks when its snow mountain hiking.

Trekking Accessories

  1. Headband or Cap

Wear headband or cap to protect your face and neck from scorching sun heat. Also, carry a woollen cap to protect yourself from the cold.

  1. Gloves

Carry a pair of gloves which can keep you warm in dipped temperatures and which too act as wind cheaters when it’s windy and chilly.

Read ahead my next post for Trekking Gears.