Visiting the UK, or any country.

Daily writing prompt

What are the biggest mistakes people make when visiting your country?

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Most countries have their tourist ‘must see’ destination(s). The reason for their popularity is that these places are special. So, yes, do visit them. You’d be mad not to. Go to London and see the Houses of Parliament. In Paris, don’t avert you eyes when the Eiffel Tower comes into view; it’s grand. If you go to Barcelona and don’t visit the Sagrada Familia, well. I don’t know what to say.

My first point is obvious; do the big stuff. Tick it off your bucket list. But, there’s more to Italy than Rome, there’s more to Rwanda than mountain gorillas. Every country has some level of diversity in its landscapes and cities. I’ve often found that the most memorable parts of a vacation were not in the planned script. They happened off the beaten track, and they nearly always involved people. It’s people that are the big attraction.

I always try to meet the locals and talk to them, if I can. Explore the back streets, stop in out of the way villages and towns. Try the local food as served and prepared by locals. If you only eat in your All Inclusive Hotel, you pretty much might as well have stayed at home. And for God’s sake do not seek out the nearest MacDonalds because it’s familiar, predictable and safe; it’s also garbage.

I write a travel blog, you can click on the image to visit it. I don’t do it for money, though I do advertise my books on it. Much of it is about where my wife and I have been, but there’s also some thoughts on how to plan and book holidays. I would suggest you avoid all inclusive resorts unless the only option. At the Red Sea that’s mostly all there is, and they’re fine. Also, avoid package holidays if you can. They can be cheaper and I’ve used them,. But usually they are more expensive than booking your own transport and accommodation. Using sites like booking.com enables you see a different side of a resort, or town, or even country. Read reviews, ask questions on chat forums related to the place.

As for visiting the UK? Don’t pack your bags till you have checked the weather forecast; you can get three seasons in one day. Don’t just visit London, the rest of the country is rather different. I’ve written about several UK options, you can read about them on my blog site. English cuisine is among the worst in the world, consequently we have thousands of great restaurants specialising in food from everywhere else on earth.

Have a great holiday.