International Travel 101

Morocco is in the World Cup Semifinals- the first African team to achieve that goal …(literally)! I definitely see a correlation between my visit to Morocco and this historic victory 🤓

Now, let’s start by talking about 💩

Beware when flushing things down the toilet! Not all countries have a robust enough sewage system to handle that wad of toilet paper you need to do your “business.” In some places, you’ll see a small trashcan next to the toilet specifically for your used toilet paper. Be sure to check!
Expect a slower-paced lifestyle in other countries that you could misinterpret as bad customer service. Most Americans, (myself included), are impatient. We’re used to the luxuries of Amazon prime, Door Dash, and Uber. However, other countries don’t have the same luxuries and are generally more chill, so don’t get upset with unexpected delays in services. Also, keep in mind that waiters actually get paid a living wage in other countries so they don’t need to cater to your every need or put up with BS for tips. Don’t be a Karen or a Kevin (the male version of a Karen) !😆

Bring the correct adapter(s) for the electrical outlets in the countries you’re visiting. Or, make sure the electrical devices you’re bringing have built-in converters. Laptops and cellphones typically have them built in, but hair-dryers don’t, so review those manuals! I personally like getting the all-in-one travel adapters that come with multiple USB ports for charging several devices at once.

*affiliate link of a product I like but amazon search "travel adapters" and find the one you like.

Prepare for a meal at a restaurant that might last 3 hours or more. Going out to eat is the main event in some countries, so you won’t be rushed out or have your plate taken away mid-bite like in a lot of American restaurants. When I get back to Philly, I actually miss the international way of sitting down, relaxing and enjoying my food for hours with friends.

Don’t be known internationally as the drunk American tourist. In the countries I’ve visited, people tend to have a healthier approach to drinking than we do here in the states. They get drunk and go home. Americans, however, get trashed at the pregame, then turn up at the party, then there’s the afterparty followed by the inevitable hangover and regret. No judgment here! Some say that other countries are just culturally exposed to alcohol at a younger age than we are, so it isn’t seen as taboo. Cheers! 🥂