Here's A Few of the Things I've Learned About International Travel on This Week's Fast Five!

 I've been traveling my entire life, and I'm not a young woman.  Over the decades I've kept up with the way things work, and it's not been easy.  In the current climate, the following is some solid advice for anyone traveling abroad.  This advice is for people living in and traveling abroad from the United States.

1.    What's the best smart phone for international travel.  To be fair, I've tried a lot of things for this situation.  I've bought local sim cards when I've arrived in a country, I've rented a satellite phone, I've had a prepay travel policy per country, and I've even tried the esim.  What I discovered is that over the years, technology has advanced quickly.  Thereby making the question go from how do I do it, to why is this so difficult?

I finally gave up all the antics and just bought a phone that works.  Reportedly, Samsung Galaxies, iPhones and Pixels can all just transcend the madness and work in most countries.  That's what we all need people.

You need to purchase that phone.  It needs to be unlocked to truly work properly.  Get a plan that covers it all.  It's really that simple.  I went Google and it was easy.  They say it will work in 200+ countries.  That sounds very cool since reportedly there are only 197 countries.  Maybe they're counting on there being some more countries later.

And the reported best services for this are T-Mobile and  Google Fi.

At any rate, my advice is quit buying all the hacks and just get a phone that works.

https://surfroam.com/blogs/news/best-mobile-phones-for-global-roaming-in-2025?srsltid=AfmBOoqYVqbSNt2bwQn1YkTa6vM9Blf_bxOBFoqudy4sQ9mR9v_2OaAL  

https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/summer-travel-guide-2025-phones  

https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-travel-phone/   

https://intentionaltravelers.com/iphone-vs-android-best-phone-for-travel/   

https://neverendingfieldtrip.com/best-travel-phones/   

2.    What bag is best and how should you pack it?  Once again, I've been through a lot of stages.  I've done overpacking, underpacking, what was I thinking packing and every conceivable notion.  One thing I learned is always go prepared.  If you're going for a few days, just pack what you need.  If you're going for over a week, make sure there's a place to do your laundry and take less.

Check the weather right before you leave your house.  We have apps people.  Just pop it open and look up what the weather is going to be for the next ten days wherever you're going.  Not that hard.  I like to pack easy to pack clothes and a jacket or coat.  Normally I wear the jacket or coat.  I try not to take a bunch of shoes, jewelry, accessories and so on.  I have what I call travel clothes.  They are all easily packed, easily interchangeable for many looks with different combinations.  I try to take one pair of shoes.  This does depend on what I plan to do on the trip, but it often works.  

Now, about actually packing.  If you do it right, you don't have to worry about taking a big bag.  I'm not saying put it all in a carry on.  I check my bag.  I carry a cross body bag on the plane.  But, if you have a gigantic bag and end up having to carry it up a lot of steps (trust me I know this from experience), you'll have at least one miserable moment or so on your trip.  Take less, make sure it all goes together, and take one small bag.  They still sell sets of luggage.  Don't fall for that.

The last question I may be able to help with is whether to go hard or soft, and how many wheels?  Four wheels people.  Your luggage should follow you around like a well trained dog.  Don't buy something you have to carry or drag.  Two wheels is still dragging.  I've had both hard and soft sided luggage.  I wouldn't trade the hard sided luggage for anything.  Even if it's just peace of mind, you feel like your stuff is better protected in hard sided luggage.  It also is better protected in the rain.  Can't beat it.

https://products.bestreviews.com/best-luggage-for-international-travels?cid=17571377514&aid=136528076325&eid=&tid=dsa-19959388920&ul=9003419&mt=&n=g&d=c&dm=&dt&sn&adid=736984251095&k=&p=&pc=&ap=&brprdct=1&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17571377514&gbraid=0AAAAADlFbU_wgy0F-1u7wpaUDwnTbY6nt&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8PDPBhCeARIsAOJwmWWlxRpLV0eg5fgSqnypMU3Q84aR2Ul4ut4mXNO1lCIJW2VK0AneVuYaAvcUEALw_wcB   

https://www.packhacker.com/blog/general/best-luggage-for-international-travel/   

https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/travel/best-luggage   

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Suitcase-International-Travel/s?k=Best+Suitcase+for+International+Travel      

https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light/backpack-or-rolling-bag   

3.    What kind of accommodations are best?  In this day and age we can choose.  There are traditional hotels, resorts, and so on.  But now, we also have aparthotels, apartments, Air BnB and VRBO.  You have a wide variety of choices.  What to choose?

It depends on what kind of services you want and how much space you need.  For a few days, I say go with a hotel.  Services and possibly a pool is a great thing.  They normally are in convenient locations and most of them have parking.  

However, I have discovered that if I'm staying a couple of weeks, I like to rent an apartment of some kind.  Here's why.  I don't like to drive when I travel these days.  I'm over it.  I've figured out how to go by public transport and I'm not going back.  Getting an apartment gives me choices.  I can cook a meal if I want.  I can have breakfast in which I love to do.  I can do laundry.  That's important, so I don't have to carry a giant piece of luggage.

The laundry is normally the big deal.  If I know I'm going to have to do laundry in Europe I normally rent an apartment.  I also like what's called an aparthotel, because they are a unique combination of hotel and apartment.  The TV situation is normally better in an apartment too.

It all depends on what works for you.  Just always make sure that if you drive, there's parking and if you aren't driving, that you're close to public transit.

https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/sleeping-eating/reserve-accommodations   

https://www.artsy-traveler.com/europe-accommodation-tips/   

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g1-i9658-k8047795-Best_type_of_accommodation_for_Europe_family_trip-Family_Travel.html   

https://wanderyourway.com/find-right-accommodation/   

https://wanderyourway.com/accommodation-in-europe-types-tips/   

4.    How should you get around?  That's an interesting question.  To be fair, there are situations where you need a car and have to drive.  Then, rent a car.  No brainer.

However, if you don't have to drive, don't.  It's that simple.  It removes the need to get an international driver's license or whatever you may be required to have.  It's just one less errand before the trip.  But, how will you get around?

Take that public transport.  I've ridden on buses, trams, trolleys, subways, ferries and on and on.  I've even hopped countries on Ryanair and taken gondolas up mountains.  You can always download a metro map on your phone and make your way around.  It's really easy.  Like I always say on my YouTube channel; give up your sense of direction and follow the signs.  If they aren't in English, use Google Translate or ask a local.  It's a lot easier than it looks or sounds, so I would just do it unless you're traveling the highlands of Iceland or something.

Also, once again; make sure your accommodations are close to public transport.  It makes life truly easy.

https://www.moonhoneytravel.com/europe-travel-itineraries-without-a-car/   

https://findingalexx.com/car-free-travel/   

https://www.contiki.com/six-two/article/11-car-free-cities-to-visit-in-europe/   

https://www.euronews.com/travel/2026/02/28/heres-where-to-go-for-a-car-free-escape-in-europe   

https://green-travel-blog.com/car-free-travel-in-europe/   

5.    Are there day trips?  When you plan a trip to Europe and you plan to stay in a city and not drive.  Or, even if you plan to drive.  Here's something to consider.  I learned this over the years.

Will there be enough to do where you are to keep you busy for two weeks?  Here's the real answer.  You don't know.  You've never been there.  This is where research is your friend.  Look for potential day trips.

I try not to plan too much on the itinerary.  I like to be able to explore and find cool things that research didn't reveal.  Does this happen?  Every single time.  Therefore, I research possibilities but don't lock them in.  I only schedule a couple things and then I have a list.  Often times we don't decide exactly what we want to do until we get there and get a little feel for the place.

Why is that important?  If you've ever traveled on a group tour, you'll know what I mean.  Independent travel means going at your own pace and doing what you want.  If you over plan, you'll do to yourself what you pay someone to do on a tour.  Have a list, and worry about the rest when you arrive.  Day trips are a wonderful way to get to know more than just the city you're staying in.  It gives you a better idea about the country you're visiting.

https://www.rediscovereurope.com/destinations/using-hub-cities-in-europe   

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/general-europe/central-base-of-operations-for-touring-european-cities   

https://www.getyourguide.com/explorer/travel-inspiration/amazing-day-trips-from-europes-top-cities/   

https://www.neverstoptraveling.com/great-european-day-trips-2   

https://www.tuigroup.com/en/newsroom/news/beyond-the-city-europes-top-30-destinations-for-day-trip-searches-according-to-tui-musement   

There you have it.  Just some sound advice that I've learned over the years.  It's not antiquated.  It's modern.  When you travel you have to keep learning new ways or you won't be comfortable traveling after a while.  Don't fall behind.  Keep checking out the latest stuff.

If you'd like to check out what I'm currently up to, check out my YouTube Channel "Adventures for Anyone with Terri Dixon."  That's me!

https://www.youtube.com/@adventuresforanyone2026   

Hope you find this advice helpful.  Remember, memories are the most important, so go out and make some!  Enjoy!

Be Aware...Not Everyone is Put on This Earth to Travel the Way I Do. This Week's Fast Five is About That!

 I go out into the unknown of travel.  I don't take tours or cruises.  I make my own plans, take off and go exploring.  I look for travel like a local.  I search for unique ideas, and budget accommodations.  I get the most bang for my buck and the most time to check a place out that I can.  Is this for you?  Let's analyze that.

1.    What does it take to ride the subway?  Is this for you?  To ride the subway, you have to be able to let go of your sense of direction and follow the signs.  It's the only way it will work.  That's just the first part of it.  You have to deal with crowds, both inside and outside the trains.  You need to have a little patience for the train to show up.  The subway may stop while you're on it.  Patience is necessary there too.  Creepy people may be riding your subway.  That really unnerves a lot of folks.  Tolerance of all kinds with everything from homeless people sleeping in the priority seating to people having their small children try to sell you candy; people preaching about the end of the world or performing dances on the trains.  

I love to see what the world has to offer.  People watching is a highly coveted activity for me.  Crowds have never bothered me.  I don't fear much.  I have no problem saying no to a child selling candy and on and on.  I know people who come from a small town and aren't used to the hustle and bustle and crowds jamming onto subway trains.  It most generally freaks them out.  Don't feel like there's something wrong with you.  It may just not be your thing.

Just remember, life is full of firsts, adventures and necessities.  Driving in the city is a nightmare.  Taxis are increasingly unreliable.  The last time I took a cab, I had to explain to the driver how to get where I was going.  If you really think you can't handle a subway, I hate to say it, don't.  I get it.  But if you happen to be one of those people who could care less how many people or what kind of people cram into a train, it might be for you.  Or maybe you should just challenge yourself and give it a try.

https://www.mta.info/

https://www.mbta.com/  

https://www.wmata.com/   

https://www.mta.maryland.gov/schedule/metrosubway   

https://www.transitchicago.com/

2.    What does it take to ride a train?  Once again, I love the train.  I love the scenery out the window all the way to my destination. I love a snack car.  I think it's great, but it's not for everyone.

Amtrak is an acquired taste in a lot of ways.  If you ride something like The Acela, all seats are reserved.  The train doesn't stop for long in most locations, so you have to find where to stand so that you'll be entering the car you need to be in.  It can be a little tedious in some places.  Most trains are only reserved if you're in business class or above.  Coach seats are catch as catch can.  This means that if you're traveling alone, you have no idea who might end up sitting next to you or maybe no one.

All of these things are something to consider.  You may have to make several transfers if you're on a long trip.  You may not get a window seat in coach.  If you want to guarantee a thing like that, you may have to pay more for business class.  It can be frustrating.  

You also may be coming through the corridor I live in.  All trains were cancelled between New Haven and Boston recently because a piece of the roadway; an overpass; collapsed on the rails.  It happens.  

In many areas, the rails are shared.  Most of the time Amtrak takes precedence, but you might get hung up because of a commuter train or a freight train.  It happens.

The bottom line is, if any of that drives you absolutely crazy; the train might not be for you.  Mass transit is something that I find very convenient and fun to navigate.  Not everyone feels like that.  Do you?  Or does driving sound like less of a hassle?  There's a lot to consider.

https://www.amtrak.com/home

https://www.viarail.ca/en   

https://www.viarail.ca/en   

https://www.travelchinaguide.com/china-trains/   

https://www.japan.travel/en/guide/traveling-by-rail/   

3.    What does it take to ride commuter trains?  For me, the only thing harder to take than a plane is a commuter train.  These guys are like a bus on rails.  I hate the bus.  I only take them when absolutely necessary.  Does that happen to me?  Once in a while.  Commuter trains run almost nonstop and go great distances.  They can get overcrowded, which is no fun.  I've actually gotten off and waited for the next train because of the crowd.

Commuter trains deal with every imaginable customer service issue in the world.  I've seen fights, disoriented lost people.  I once talked to a man who was supposed to be on Amtrak.  All of these things seem like they shouldn't ever happen, but they do.  The trains break down and they have to send a bus.  It happens.  They run late, they have to pull up to ramps instead of platforms and only open the doors on certain cars.  All the while, they have to keep all of us passengers informed as to where we have to go to exit the car, what the next stop is, what the current stop is, give lists of all the stops on the route.  They do everything they can to help us do what we need to to and get to where we're going.  Does that always work?  No.

The biggest problem with being a passenger on commuter trains is making sure you're on the right train.  There are probably a dozen going on the route you need to go on, but they won't all stop where you need to get off.  You need to be careful about that.  Will people annoy you on a commuter train?  Yes.  Be prepared for that.  It's all part of the program, and if you can't stand it; you shouldn't ride the train.  For me, it's a hoot and I wouldn't miss it for the world.

https://www.mta.info/   

https://www.mta.maryland.gov/   

https://cp.pt/info/en/porto-trains   

https://tfl.gov.uk/maps/track  

https://massbytrain.com/   

4.    What does it take to ride a ferry or water taxi?  Whether these guys are the size of a cruise ship or tiny, they are the most used method of mass transit around the world.  Didn't know that, did you?  Water taxis and ferries have been around much longer than subways, commuter trains, buses, trains, and planes.  Why?  Boats have been around longer than any of that, and in lots of places where there are now bridges; there didn't used to be any.  So, this is the most common form of mass transit world wide.

Is it for you?  It has all the unplanned seating of the Northeast Regional.  It has all the noise of a commuter train.  It has all the crowds of a subway.  It has it all and it floats.  There are ferries you take your vehicles on and some you don't.  There are ferries that travel for days between locations and some that take less than two minutes across a river.  There's also everything in between.  They are a way of life in countries all over the world.

Here's the list.  If you get seasick, it might not be for you.  If you don't like mass transit in general, it might not be for you.  You may not like the price which tends to be more than other types of mass transit.  There are, once again, many variables.

What are the nice things about ferries?  On several, you can bring your car, allowing you to drive once you get across the body of water you're traversing.  Mid to large sized ferries have snack bars, delis and sometimes even a lounge.  The ferries that cross the Atlantic and go up the coast of Canada have rooms to rent for an overnight voyage.  It all depends on what kind of ferry you're taking and where to.  They will get you where all other forms of mass transit won't, but they aren't for everyone.

https://www.ferry.nyc/   

https://siferry.com/   

https://www.88844ferry.com/   

https://fireislandferries.com/   

https://nywatertaxi.com/

5.    What does it take to fly on a plane?  This one amazes me.  We all do this.  It's the worst travel experience of them all.  We don't think anything about it, because it's become a way of life.  Layovers are ridiculous and half the time the airline changes something and changes your layover, making it impossible to catch that next flight.  However, most people I know don't even think of other modes of transportation.  They want to go somewhere, they look for a flight.  It's ingrained in us.  Expedia, Travelocity, Kayak, and on and on all have us trained.  To get there you need to fly.  How's that feeling right about now with the jet fuel shortage?  It's time to reconsider.

Here's the facts.  You have to have a real ID to even get off the ground.  No star or passport; no go.  You must pack your toiletries the way you're told to.  Too big of a bottle and you don't go.  Keep your rechargeables in your carry on or you won't go.  It's a hassle from the get go.  You need to check in from home, or in some cases; there won't be anyone to help you.  You have to get there hours before your flight.  The list goes on.

Here's most of the rest of that list.  You may not be able to carry on your carry on, because everyone before you took up all the space.  Your flight could be changed at the last minute by the airline.  Planes sometimes don't come.  Staff to fly the planes sometimes don't come.  Weather.  Period.  TSA; it's not their fault, but sometimes it's almost impossible to get through the lines.  Biometric photos.  Fingerprints.  In other countries; visas, EES, ETIAS, heightened security.  It goes on and on.  I have a prosthetic breast and in Indianapolis, Indiana they not only need to pat it down; they check it for explosives.  I find it funny but wow.  Take off your jacket, empty your pockets, and thank God we don't have to take off our shoes at this point.  Questions from customs agents, forms to declare whatever you may have to declare when crossing a border.  It's amazing all the stuff you may encounter.

Lest we forget other reasons that flying is a pain.  Crying babies, smelly people, paying for Wi-Fi, no Wi-Fi, paying for snacks and food and drink, having none of that.  Having your luggage get lost.  There's an endless list of reasons why not to fly, but we all do it.  Why?  It gets us where we need to go.  I'm just here to remind you that if any of that bothers you enough; don't fly.  I didn't even mention how cramped it is in coach.

https://www.expedia.com/   

https://www.travelocity.com/   

https://www.booking.com/   

https://www.kayak.com/   

https://www.citi.com/   

Travel is different for everyone.  You may love cruises.  You may only want to go to Disney.  You may prefer the outdoors and want to camp.  You may love road trips.  Remember, there's no right or wrong way to travel.  It depends on the individual.  I do it as budget.  That's my jam, but I just mentioned about a hundred reasons why some people would hate the way I travel.  If you need luxury, that's fine.  If you need less crowds, good for you.  My point here is to assess what you really need to enjoy your travels before you go.  Don't do something just because someone else you know did it.  Do it for you and for your tastes.

If you'd like to see what I'm doing right now, check out my YouTube channel, "Adventures for Anyone with Terri Dixon."

https://www.youtube.com/@adventuresforanyone2026   

Travel is to be enjoyed.  Don't sabotage yourself by trying to do it the way someone else does.  Do your research, pick your spot, pick your activities, pack your bags and enjoy!