Travel Hacks You WON'T Find on Instagram! 5 Life-Saving Secrets

5 Airplane Travel Hacks You Didn't Know Existed (They're Game Changers!)

After 35 years of travel experience, here are some travel hacks that are simple and easy to follow. Apply these on your next trip and see if they work for you.

1. The DIY Foot Hammock Hack

Tired of feeling like your knees are permanently attached to the seat in front of you? Here's a secret weapon: the DIY foot hammock! Simply transform your scarf, a spare blanket, or airplane hammock you can buy for cheap into a comfy footrest by looping it under the airplane table and resting your feet upon it. This ingenious hack creates extra legroom, providing much-needed relief on long flights.

2. Hydrate Like a Pro: Ditch the Dehydrating Coffee

Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, and the popular choice of coffee can actually exacerbate dehydration. Upgrade your in-flight hydration by opting for bottled water instead. And here's a bonus tip: salty snacks like chips or crackers help your body retain fluids. Pack some for the journey and enjoy a healthier alternative to airplane pretzels.

3. Unlock the Secret Menu: Tastier Food Awaits!

Did you know airlines often have hidden gems – "special menus" featuring more delicious and exciting options than the standard fare? These menus are typically available for pre-order online and are often served first. Explore your airline's website before your flight and treat yourself to a tastier in-flight meal experience.

4. Beat the Nausea with a Pocket-Sized Lifesaver

Feeling queasy during takeoff or turbulence? There's a natural remedy you might not expect: peppermint oil. Dab a small amount on a tissue or handkerchief or keep a bottle less than 100 ml and inhale the refreshing scent. Peppermint oil is known to soothe nausea and can be a lifesaver on bumpy flights.

5. "I'm Here For Work": The Secret Weapon Against Tourist Traps

Once you've landed, don't let unwanted sales pitches or overpriced souvenirs ruin your travel experience. Learn the phrase "I'm here for work" in the local language. This simple phrase can be a polite yet effective way to deter overly enthusiastic vendors at tourist destinations.

Unveiling the Fastest eSIM for Travel & Live Streaming in Thailand: It's Not Who You Think!

Thailand's Fastest eSIM or SIM For Travel or Live Streaming: AIS eSIM Takes the Crown

My Thailand and Dubai trip is coming up shortly. As a content creator, staying connected with a reliable and fast internet connection is crucial, especially for live streaming. I was searching for the best travel eSIM or physical SIM, but choosing the right eSIM provider in Thailand can be tricky, especially when companies don't disclose exact speeds.

After a lot of research I found out that AIS, a leading Thai network operator, reigns supreme in terms of internet speed. Their download speed clocks in at an impressive 36.89 Mbps, while the upload speed reaches a staggering 208 Mbps (median speeds). These numbers far surpass competitors like TrueMove H and DTAC, making AIS the clear winner for live streaming bandwidth.

While some providers like Saily and Airalo offer attractive eSIM plans, their actual speeds remain shrouded in secrecy. I contacted both companies directly, but their responses were vague, emphasizing "good speed" and "unlimited maximum speed" without concrete figures.

After digging deeper, I discovered that AIS consistently ranks as the fastest eSIM internet provider in Thailand. Their website proudly displays their position as the 2023 speed champion.

Internet Speed Testing App OoKla confirmed AIS's dominance. Download speeds averaged around 36.89 Mbps, with some users reporting reaching 50 Mbps. Upload speeds, crucial for live streaming, were even more impressive, with a median of 208 Mbps. This blows away the competition, with TrueMove H lagging behind at 20 Mbps and DTAC falling short at 14 Mbps (median speeds).

The good news? AIS offers eSIM plans! This means you can ditch the physical SIM card hassle and enjoy the fastest internet speeds in Thailand for your travels and live streams.

I recommend purchasing your eSIM directly from AIS or other 3rd party providers before your trip to ensure a seamless travel experience.

How to Handle Cancelled Flights

Takes These Steps When Your Flights Get Cancelled

Flight cancellations happen more often than we think. Here are some simple strategies to help you deal with flight cancellation should it happen to you.

Contact Airline Immediately – Contact the airline desk at your airport immediately. Everyone on the same flight will be trying to rebook the next flight at the same time, so you have a better chance of success if you act right way. At the same time, call airline customer service while you are waiting for the service desk to resolve the issue. Sometimes calling directly results in faster rebooking. Try contacting them via social media as a last resort.

Travel Insurance – If you have travel insurance, call your travel insurance provider's customer service to understand the specifics of your coverage related to flight cancellations and what you would be required to do on your part.

Airline Compensation and Assistance - Enquire about immediate compensation provided by the airline! Have documentation ready to show. There’s a good chance you are entitled to meal vouchers, food expenses, hotel accommodation, and monetary compensation based on your scenario.

If you are not sure, do some research and have conversations with other stranded passengers. If you are dealing with these issues as a group instead of a single person, the airline will more likely cheap out on entitled compensations.

Bonus Tips – Make the most of your time. Visit shops, restaurants, or airport amenities. Some airports even boast unique attractions like art exhibits, gardens, or observation decks.

Relax, catch up on work, read a book, or simply unwind. If you have free lounge access, visit an airport lounge.

If you are facing a significant delay, inform anyone expecting you at your destination. Adjust accommodations or other travel reservations if necessary.

Remember, a cancelled flight doesn't have to ruin your trip. However, how you handle it may ruin your trip. With a positive outlook and this guide, you can overcome it and everything will be fine.

Travel Hack: How to Saves Hundreds on Eyeglasses When You Travel!

Travel Hack That Saves You Money on Your Eyewear (Toronto vs. Manila: Your Eyewear Price Difference Savior)

I always wondered why eyeglasses cost so little in countries like Philippines and Bangladesh and so much in Canada and other developed countries. In Toronto, for example, a recent trip to the optician left me facing a hefty $600 bill for a pair of frames I loved. But here's the secret: that same pair could be yours for a fraction of the cost – in Manila!

Intrigued? I was too. So, I decided to hit an eyewear store in a mall in Manila to check exactly how much the same pair of high-end glasses with all the features like anti-glare, anti-scratch, transition lenses, and unbreakable would cost in Manila.

The Price Difference was Insane! Imagine this: you walk into a trendy optical shop in Manila, find the perfect pair of designer-inspired frames that flatter your face, and head to the cashier expecting a hefty bill. But instead, you're greeted with a price tag that's a cool $400 less than what you'd pay back home. In my case, that was a sweet lesser than $200 price tag! Talk about a reason to celebrate!

Whether you're a seasoned travel hacker, a budget-conscious glasses wearer, or simply curious about the world of international eyewear prices, this discovery can be a game changer. So, the next time you need a new pair of specs, consider venturing beyond your local optician.

Manila, with its diverse selection of high-quality, affordable eyewear options, might just become your new go-to destination for spectacular savings! Also, many other big Asian cities such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Dhaka would probably be good candidates to try affordable eyewear at low prices.

Please visit the video below to view my eyeglasses purchase experience in Manila: https://youtu.be/rGyYrPlKqI0 

How to Handle Cancelled Flights

Flight Cancelled? Your Guide to Smooth Rebooking & Tips for Making the Most of a Delay

Being stuck at the airport due to a cancelled flight can be incredibly frustrating. But don't let it ruin your trip! Here's a step-by-step guide to navigate this situation smoothly:

Step 1: Know Your Rights

Before heading to the airport, familiarize yourself with passenger rights regarding cancelled flights. Research compensation policies, rebooking assistance options, and potential entitlements for meals and accommodation (varies by reason, delay length, and airline). Knowing your rights empowers you when dealing with the airline.

Step 2: Stay Calm and Gather Information

Take a deep breath! Panicking won't help. Instead, focus on gathering information. Here's what to do:

Contact the Airline ASAP: Head to the airline's customer service desk at the airport immediately.

Double Down with a Phone Call: While waiting in line, dial the airline's customer service number to see who picks up first (phone or in-person representative).

Try Social Media (Last Resort): If you can't get through via phone or in person, consider contacting the airline on Twitter. Sometimes, airlines offer faster support through social media.

Gather Information: During any interaction, ask about the cancellation reason, next available flights, and any compensation or assistance offered.

Have Documents Ready: Keep your boarding pass, travel documents, and booking information readily available to expedite the rebooking process.

Step 3: Rebook or Explore Alternatives

Depending on your situation, decide between:

Rebooking: If rebooking is feasible, act quickly to secure a seat on the next available flight, even if it means changing routes or airlines.

Explore Alternatives: For significant delays or shorter distances, consider trains, buses, or rental cars. Weigh costs, travel time, and convenience when making your choice.

Step   4: Check Your Travel Insurance

Review Your Coverage: Does your travel insurance cover flight cancellations? Most travel insurance plans offer some level of coverage for cancellations due to various reasons (weather, mechanical issues, medical emergencies, etc.).

Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call your travel insurance provider's customer service number to understand the specifics of your coverage related to flight cancellations. They will advise you on the process for filing a claim and any documentation required.

Step 5: Claim Compensation and Assistance

Don't forget about potential compensation! Be polite but firm when dealing with airline staff, and have documentation ready to support your claims. You might be entitled to:

Meal Vouchers: To cover food expenses during the delay.

Hotel Accommodation: If the delay forces you to stay overnight.

Monetary Compensation: Depending on the cancellation reason and regulations.

Step 6: Make the Most of Your Time

A long delay? Don't despair! Here's how to make the most of your airport time:

Explore: Visit shops, restaurants, or airport amenities. Some airports even boast unique attractions like art exhibits, gardens, or observation decks.

Relax & Recharge: Catch up on work, read a book, or simply unwind. Consider visiting an airport lounge (if you have access) for comfortable seating, food, and drinks.

Engage with Fellow Passengers: Strike up conversations and share stories with other passengers, creating a sense of community during travel disruptions. Share experiences of how unexpected connections can lead to new friendships or networking opportunities. Bonus Tip: Flight employees are more likely to prioritize a group of passengers requesting assistance compared to individual requests.

Step 7: Stay Positive and Flexible

Travel disruptions happen. Maintain a positive attitude and stay flexible. Getting stressed won't change the situation. Adapt your plans:

Inform Others: If facing a significant delay, inform anyone expecting you at your destination.

Adjust Reservations: You might need to change accommodation or other travel reservations.

Remember, a cancelled flight doesn't have to ruin your trip. With a positive outlook and this guide, you can turn this frustration into an unexpected adventure or a chance to connect with new people.

Safe travels!