Introduction
In most cases, planning a trip to developing countries is much the same as planning a trip to anywhere else, with a few alterations. Besides a few precautionary measures, you must also keep an open mind to the cultures and environments you might witness in order to enjoy your journey and maintain your sanity and dignity at the same time. Handy has a few tips that can help you tick off some of the more pressing concerns in such to-do lists. Let's take a look at them.
The Concerns
- Alternative Hygiene - Do not expect the cleanest of toilets when visiting a developing country. Even a full-fledged toilet might be too much to ask in some places. You might have to do with a makeshift squatting toilet at the side of the road.
Discard any notions you might have had about cleanliness and embrace the wilderness as you see it. Hygiene can be something you may end up compromising on many fronts. To make it easier on yourself, see it as a natural change rather than something repulsing. Embrace it with an open mind because otherwise, you might be unable to complete the journey altogether.
- Travel Accommodations - This is a tricky one to balance. Depending on your itinerary you may experience a smooth tarmac and perfect bends to pathways that barely qualify for a road. In short, prepare yourself for an uncomfortable journey. Most buses are crammed to the brim with people and luggage until every cubic unit air is occupied. You could even end up standing on a 10-hour journey.
Carry an electric fan to counter the unbearable heat and a few extra biscuits and water as making friends with some passengers could secure you a seat during such a challenging journey.
- Medication - Developing countries usually have some specific diseases that are long gone in your country. It is advised that you visit a healthcare professional eight weeks before your journey to ensure to receive any routine immunizations you are due before visiting a particular country. Usually, it's polio or a rabies shot. Hepatitis A is an example of a more severe case, and you may need more than a few weeks to get all your shots.
Not prioritizing on the date and dose of immunizations as negligence or procrastination can lead to a harrowing experience for you and possibly for those around you once you return from the trip.
- Security - Developing countries are not high on security. They are prone to pickpockets and many other forms of crimes. Avoid large public gatherings, poorly lit areas, and large public gatherings. Dress modestly and if you feel uncomfortable, visit a nearby store and ask them to call you a taxi.
Depending on your region, the cars can be poorly maintained, so make sure you check it with the driver and negotiate a price before entering the vehicle.
Conclusion
These few tips should help you get started on your journey. Besides, Handy also suggests you recheck your operator connection to ensure decent reception, carry little cash as pickpockets can be a pain. Also, make a copy of your passport and carry it while keeping the original at your residence.