Traveling? Never Exchange Currency at Your Local Bank

Why You Should Not Convert Currency at Your Bank

If you are converting currency at your home bank, you are losing a lot of money due to exuberant charges. I made the same mistakes many years ago.

But now, after checking online I convert just a little at a currency shop that has good ratings. This way, I will have enough cash for the first couple of days after arriving at my destination. And then I can convert more currency at a local shop as needed at a rate much better than in my home country.

For example, I was recently looking to convert Canadian dollars to Thai Baht and UAE Dirham for my upcoming trip. Here are the different rates I checked:

Location              THB    AED

NHVN Toronto   2600     263

Another Shoppe 2500    Not Available

TD Bank              2463     248

Bangkok              2700     Not Available

You can see that by going to a currency shop in Toronto and not going to a bank (all banks have very similar rates) I saved $4 per $100 Cad.

However, if I had going to TD then I would lose $8 per $100 Cad in conversion when compared to a local currency shop in Bangkok. That’s a huge difference.

So the lesson here is that you should convert a little amount just to get going for a couple of days at a reputable currency store in your country and do the rest of your exchange in your destination country, which always will have better rates. And never go to a bank to convert currency.

I have a video on this here: Best Place to Exchange Currency

Where to Keep Your Passport When You Travel

How to Keep Your Passport Safe While Traveling

In a previous video, I discussed general passport safety on the go. Today, let's explore passport safekeeping within your hotel or Airbnb. I noticed some bizarre information being given online to keep your passport safe in hotels, such as clip it between the curtain creases, behind the mirror, inside a hanging T-shirt, and so many other weird tips. Following these tips can be dangerous as thieves also know about them and those recommendations are the first places they will look.   

1. Hotel Safe (with Caution): While not foolproof, safes remain a common option. However, there are some things to beware.

Default codes: Change the code immediately upon arrival.

Weak safes: Research online for reports on the safe's reliability in your specific hotel.

2. Locked Hard-Shell Carry-On: If no safe exists, a locked hard-shell carry-on becomes your best bet. Choose a TSA-approved lock for convenience during airport checks.

3. Secure Bag with Packing Cube: For soft-sided bags, opt for a secure, lockable backpack or use a small luggage lock. Employ packing cubes to conceal valuables discreetly within your clothes.

Remember:

Carry copies: Always have photocopies of your passport readily accessible.

Multiple locations: Distribute key documents across safekeeping options for added security.

Common sense reigns supreme: Exercise caution and avoid leaving valuables unattended, even in locked luggage.

Additional Tips:

- Consider travel insurance for loss or theft.

- Research common scams in your destination to stay informed.

- Utilize digital copies of passports and IDs stored securely in cloud storage.

By combining these strategies with vigilance, you can ensure your passport's safety during your travels.

Beat Jet Lag: 5 Simple Tips for a Smooth Trip

How to Deal with Jet Lag After a Long-Haul Flight

Jet lag occurs when you travel a long distance and your circadian rhythm is thrown off by your body’s internal clock clashing with the external clock due to a time zone change. Jet lag includes dreadful feelings like fatigue, sleepiness, sluggishness, stress, and not being yourself.

Today, I will give you a few simple tips to help you with jet lag.

- This is probably the most difficult tip to follow, but if possible, try to adjust your sleep pattern based on your destination one to two weeks before traveling.

- Drink plenty of water before and during your flight. Yes, you may need to use the washroom more often, but water or fluids help your body cope better with jet lag.

- When you arrive at your destination, try to take a walk or do light exercise in your hotel. Don’t just stay in your room.

- Try to get some sun at your destination. Sunlight exposure helps regulate your melatonin production and your body gets a message that you are at a different place and gets adjusted to the new circadian cycle.

- And this is my favourite tip that I follow religiously. This one is very effective where you have completely opposite time zone shifting and day becomes night or night becomes day. For example, when I go to Asian countries like the Philippines, Thailand, or Bangladesh, their time is just the opposite of Canada.

Most of the time when my flight lands in the morning or afternoon, instead of going to sleep or nap right away, I wait till actual sleeping time at night. Sometimes it is difficult to not sleep after a 24- or 36-hour journey without sleeping (I can’t sleep on a plane), but I wait for the night.

After the full night sleep, I catch my destination’s cycle and get adjusted to the new time zone quickly. Also, you can consult a doctor about using melatonin supplements to further aid sleep adjustment.

Don't Panic! Here's What to Do if You Lose Your Passport Abroad

Lost Passport?

Losing your passport abroad can be stressful, but it happens more often than you think. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact and get back on track.

Before Your Trip

Prepare copies: Make two photocopies of your passport data page and main ID page. Keep one copy in your carry-on and another in a separate bag that you carry daily. Consider storing digital copies in a cloud storage service accessible offline.

Access to documents: Leave your original birth certificate or citizenship certificate with a trusted family member or store a digital copy securely. This simplifies document verification if needed.

Embassy & policy info: Research the nearest embassy or consulate location in your travel destination. Save their contact details and the lost/stolen passport policy of your home country.

If You Lose Your Passport

Thorough search: Before panicking, thoroughly retrace your steps and search all your bags, pockets, and potential locations where you may have left your passport.

Report immediately: Contact your embassy or consulate without delay. Inform them your passport is lost and confirm the process for acquiring a replacement or emergency travel document. Schedule an appointment if necessary.

Police report: Obtain a police report documenting the loss. This strengthens your case and may be required by your embassy.

Gather documents: Have your photocopies, original or digital copies of birth/citizenship certificates, and any other requested documents ready.

Next Steps

Embassy visit: Visit the embassy or consulate with your prepared documents and follow their instructions.

Replacement or ETD: Depending on your situation, you may receive a replacement passport or an emergency travel document (ETD). ETDs are temporary documents valid for specific journeys home.

Plan adjustments: Be prepared to reschedule flights, tours, or accommodation due to delays in obtaining a new document.

Conclusion

Losing your passport is inconvenient, but staying calm and following these steps can expedite the recovery process. Remember, many travelers face similar situations and support is readily available.

Additional Tips

Consider registering your trip with your home country's embassy or consulate for additional assistance.

Invest in an anti-theft sling bag or day pack to securely store your passport and essential documents.

Familiarize yourself with the contact information and procedures of your travel insurance company in case they can contribute to the recovery process.

Where to Stay in Bangkok for Your First Night in Thailand

How to Plan for Your Thailand Itinerary - Your First Night in Bangkok

Planning your first night in Bangkok sets the stage for your entire Thailand adventure. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the city's energy immediately or opt for a slower acclimatization, understanding your options is key.

Choosing Your Home Base in Bangkok:

The vibrant Sukhumvit area is a popular choice for first-time visitors. Boasting excellent connectivity via the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, it offers something for everyone:

Shopaholics: Indulge in high-end malls like EmQuartier and Terminal 21 or explore bustling street markets.

Foodies: Sample diverse street food or savor delicious meals at renowned restaurants.

Night owls: Immerse yourself in the lively nightlife scene of Soi Cowboy or Nana Plaza.

However, Bangkok caters to diverse preferences. Consider alternatives like:

Old Town: Steeped in history and charm, with stunning temples and traditional markets.

Silom: Ideal for business travelers with its modern high-rises and convenient location.

Rest and Exploration:

While a long flight might make you want to retire to your room for a night of relaxation, you have options:

1-2 Nights: Explore key sights like the Grand Palace or Wat Pho and savor the street food scene.

Skip Bangkok: If your itinerary prioritizes other destinations, head straight to Krabi or Chiang Mai.

Remember, your decision is personal!

Tips for a Smooth Arrival:

Pre-book an airport transfer: Especially if you’re arriving late or seeking convenience, consider private transfers for around $27 CAD.

Exchange currency: Ensure you have Thai Baht for initial expenses.

Research visa requirements: Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa upon arrival.

Beyond Your First Night:

Stay tuned for upcoming articles on planning your itinerary, exploring Krabi, and uncovering hidden gems in Bangkok!