1. Street Food ? Ah, who doesn't love trying the mystery food on a stick? Well, the mystery can land you in bed or the bathroom for a few days. Be careful, particularly if you've also been trying the local alcoholic beverages.
2. Stupid Foreigner Tricks ? Locals sometimes like to have a joke at your expense. It usually has to do with food. Don't eat strange stuff unless others are.
3. Deadly Ice Cubes ? If you are concerned about the quality of water at a destination, don't make a common mistake. What is it? Drinks with ice cubes. The ice cubes are made from the same water!
4. Garbage Bag Pants ? Despite it being roasting in the summer, many historical sites will require you to wear pants to enter. You can usually rent garbage bag pants around these areas. They look like pants, but are made of the garbage bag material.
5. Backpacking in Russia ? Russia is a tremendous country to backpack. That being said, pick pockets abound in St. Petersburg and Moscow. Don't wear the pack on your back. They will slice it and take off with the contents.
6. Rubber Bottom Backpacks ? If you are going to do some backpacking across a region, make sure to buy a backpack with a hard rubber bottom. It prevents rips and such when you set the pack down, which you will do often.
7. Taking Travel Guide Books - If you are traveling to multiple destinations, travel guide books can become an issue. Simply put, they are heavy. Pack one for the first destination. You can trade books with other travelers you meet.
8. Laptop Charging ? When traveling, it is vital you know what the ampage is in the country you are in. More than a few laptops have been zapped by being hooked up to a 220 outlet. Take a regulator to make sure this doesn't happen.
9. Asian Airport Relaxation ? If you find yourself stuck in an airport in Asia for a bit, take a look around. Most have massage spas on the premises or just outside the front. It beats trying to sleep in uncomfortable seats.
10. Walking at Night ? One of the great things about traveling is experiencing the nightlife in a new location. When walking on the streets, keep in mind things may be different. In some countries, manholes are not always covered!
I have to admit I am addicted to travel. Experiencing another culture and way of life is just tremendous. Of course, you need to know how to laugh at yourself as well. Have a great trip.
