13 Ways to Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling the World
Cynthia Amin • June 15, 2021
If there’s one thing have learned during the pandemic is the importance of health and safety both at home and away. The year 2020 has shown us how closely we are connected with the world and how easily our life can change due to a pandemic.
Now, while pandemics are not the norm, the potential of getting sick has always been there, especially when we travel and when we expose ourselves to different environments that our bodies are not accustomed to.
The best way to avoid getting sick while traveling is by being proactive and combating the risk factors that can make us sick in the first place. The best remedy for travel sicknesses is prevention.
Here are some tips that can be practiced not only while traveling but also at home. While these tips do not guarantee 100% you won’t get sick, they will help minimize your risks.
1. Drinks Lots of Water
Most tap water is perfectly fine to drink—if you are a local. For travelers, however, the bacteria found in tap water around the world varies considerably, and your stomach may not stand up well to the local bacteria.
The best approach here is to buy and drink bottled water only. In most cases bottled water has been filtered sufficiently so as not to cause trouble even for weaker stomachs. Beware, however, there are some establishments that reuse old water bottles by refilling them with tap water. Make sure you open your new water bottle yourself to be sure.
And don’t forget that ice cubes are typically made from tap water; this is an easy one to forget. Unless you know the ice was made with bottled or disinfected water, skip the ice cubes.
Also, if you eat food that was rinsed or washed in tap water (or worse, such as in a washing basin filled with water in which other food was also washed), you are vulnerable to the same bacteria as if you drank the water down yourself. This tends to happen most frequently with things like lettuce, onions, and other vegetables that come from the ground and are typically served raw.
2. Wash Your Hands Often to Avoid Getting Sick
This may sound basic, but it is an important component of preventing sickness. I know you have seen countless PSA’s all over the world about washing your hands during Covid-19, and that is because washing your hands with water and soap for 20 seconds does help reduce the spread of germs that cause respiratory and diarrheal infections.
On average, people touch their faces about 16 times per hour. Just think about all the germ transmission that your eyes, nose, and mouth could get after your dirty hands touched them?
The eyes, mouth, and nose are three susceptible points from where our bodies get infected with diseases, so it’s best to avoid touching them often.
If washing your hands often is not that accessible where you’re traveling perhaps because of a water shortage or whatever, then it’s recommended you carry and use hand sanitizer frequently.
3. Do Not Rummage Around in the Seatback Pockets
Airplanes are notoriously filthy, and they’re cleaned far less frequently than you might think. Also there is certainly no deep cleaning going on during the short period of deboarding and reboarding that goes on at most airline gates. I do recommend checking out the emergency information at the beginning of your flight but try to avoid too much rummaging around in the seatback pocket.
The same goes for pretty much all surfaces on the plane and in the airport, like the airport waiting areas and bathrooms, etc. but the seatback pockets seem to be particularly filthy. It is a good idea when you board the plane to wipe down everything around your seat with an alcohol wipe. If you do not want to do that, try to keep your hands away from your face until you have had a chance to clean up after your flight.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Wear a Face Mask
Before the Coronavirus, seeing people wearing masks in public was mostly a common sight in Asia, but now it is a common thing all over the world.
While the use of face masks will diminish as the world returns to normalcy, it is safe to say that now more people will be open to the idea of wearing a face mask while traveling.
In fact, now, it is mandatory to wear a face mask while flying not only to protect yourself but also to protect those around you. While medical masks like the N95 respirators are the best, you don’t need to use one of those to protect yourself. A surgical mask (those white and blue ones) and a common fabric mask can help just as well. You can also wear fashion friendly masks.
5. Be Aware of What You Eat
Food contamination can happen in any country and unfortunately is one of those things that happens when least expected. It is also one of the most common causes of gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea on any trip.
To avoid this, do your best to make sure that you’re eating fresh, well-cooked, and recently made food to reduce your chances of food poisoning. Also make sure your plate is dry before you are served and that you drink bottled water.
In India, for example, I made sure to eat food that was recently made and only well-cooked. I avoided salads as they could have been washed with polluted tap water, and if there were droplets of water on my plate or cutlery after it was washed, I made sure to dry them myself with a napkin.
If you do happen to get sick and its mild, just ride it out and take the appropriate medicine to get better, but if it’s severe, you may need to go and see a doctor. This is just another reason you should always purchase travel insurance.
6. Keep Your Distance from Others When Necessary
That concept of personal space varies drastically among cultures. In some countries, it’s normal for a person to stand just a foot away from you while in others, it’s more like three feet or so.
During Covid-19, we learned of the importance of keeping our distance from others to reduce the spread of diseases. Standing six feet apart seems to be the recommendation.
While maintaining six-feet might not be necessary when traveling under normal circumstances, it is still good to be aware of your distance to others and the amount of contact you’re having – especially if you’re unsure of their health.
Sometimes, when traveling abroad, you might need to decide if you feel comfortable using their crowded public transportation, or if it’s better to pay a bit more for a “private” taxi ride.
7. Take Probiotics and Boost your Immune System.
Before you travel you can prepare your stomach’s coating with a dose of healthy bacteria that will help you digest or “stomach” more easily any food that might harm you.
Try regularly taking Probiotics and Prebiotics to keep a healthy environment in your stomach and intestines, which in turn will help reduce stomach pain and food poisoning and improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
While probiotics and prebiotics sound the same, they are different. Probiotics are good bacteria that help us digest, while prebiotics is a food source for those good bacteria, so they survive their journey through your intestinal tract.
Taking Emergen-C tablets is also great to reduce the potential of getting a cold or flu while traveling.
8. Don’t Be Afraid of Tasting the Local Food
While tasting local food is part of the travel experience, if you’re someone who is allergic to certain foods and ingredients, sometimes it is better to stick to the dishes you already know and tolerate.
It’s also ok to switch back and forth between “known” and “local” food so you give your stomach some time to get used to the new ingredients.
You can be adventurous and order a dish without any allergen but be aware that sometimes orders could be misinterpreted due to mistranslations, or mistakes can be made in the kitchen. Because of this you should be prepared for any emergency by having your medications handy.
You should also take note that in less-developed countries, there may be no strict hygiene rules in the kitchen, so shrimps and meat can be cooked in the same pan. If you’re allergic to shrimps, you may fall victim to cross-contamination.
9. Get Your Rest
Along with staying hydrated, sleep is your most effective weapon against becoming ill or fighting it off if you do become ill. Sleep and hydration together are your best tools both for prevention and recovery from illness while traveling. So, make sure you get enough rest.
10. Remember to Use Sun Protection
Many uncomfortable conditions can be caused by too much sun, and it doesn’t take that much exposure to bring on symptoms that can range from itchy skin to serious stomach problems. These are all potential symptoms of sunstroke or excessive sun exposure. Make sure you have a serious sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat. Also remember to check the date on your sun protection to make sure that it is current and has not expired.
11. Do Not Drink from Unclean or Unwrapped Glasses in Hotel Rooms
By now I am sure you have seen the hotel sanitation expose where the cleaning staff merely wipes out a used glass with a towel, or, even worse, sprays cleaning agent in a glass, wipes it with a dirty rag, and puts it back on the counter. Germs, chemicals, leftover toothpaste; none of these are good for you. The rule of thumb here: If the glass is not wrapped in a sealed plastic bag, wash it yourself using very hot water, or simply don’t use it.
12. Do Not Swim in Polluted Water
Just because the water is beautiful you may not see the heavy metals, goose bacteria, and annual algae blooms that can be found in the water.
Just because people are swimming in the water isn’t necessarily proof that the water quality is acceptable. There are lots of places where locals go swimming (and catch fish and the like) even though health officials advise against it. Before diving in, look around for signs, pipes emptying into the water, scum on the surface, and other common-sense indicators that the water isn’t safe for swimming.
13. Get Vaccinated
Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to prevent contracting serious diseases found in many parts of the world. The required or recommended vaccines for your trip depend on the destination and your health, so it’s best to visit your doctor or a travel clinic to know which vaccines may apply to you.
Keep in mind some “travel vaccines” are different from the “regular vaccines” required back home, for example, Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Cholera, and others.
Some diseases like Malaria are not treated with vaccines, but instead, can be prevented via prescribed oral medication. If necessary, you can get malaria pills from your doctor a few weeks before departure.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, prevention is the best way to avoid getting sick while traveling. While these tips do not guarantee 100% you won’t get sick, they will help minimize the chances of your getting the flu, food poisoning, a virus, or any other common illness you can get while traveling.
With vacation days so precious, getting sick while traveling can be an incredibly frustrating experience. I hope these tips will help you avoid some potentially harmful situations and help you have a safe and “illness” free vacation.
When you are ready to start traveling again, contact Colesville Travel
at 301-989-1654, and we will get you there.
Until then, stay inspired
Cindy
Colesville Travel
Phone: 301-989-1654
Website: http://www.colesvilletravel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/colesville.travel
Instragram: http://www/instagram.com/colesvilletravel
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When you’ve been in the travel industry for more than 30 years, you learn that sometimes global events like weather strikes, or even government actions can ripple through the travel world in unexpected ways. One topic making headlines lately is the U.S. government shutdown and how it might affect travelers. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or an international journey, here’s what you need to know — and how to stay prepared so your travel plans stay on track. What Happens During a Government Shutdown A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to approve funding for federal agencies. When this happens, nonessential federal operations temporarily close, and many employees are furloughed (sent home without pay). If the shutdown is prolonged, a rise in "sick calls" can lead to longer waiting times and flight delays, as seen in past shutdowns. However, essential services continue including airport security (TSA), air traffic control (FAA), and Customs and Border Protection. So yes, planes will still fly, but the experience can feel different when thousands of federal workers are working without pay. How Travelers Can Be Affected Here are the main ways a government shutdown could have an impact on your travel experience: 1. Airport Delays and Longer Security Lines TSA agents and air traffic controllers are considered essential. They are working but without pay this often leads to staffing shortages and slower processing times. Tip: Arrive at the airport earlier than usual — at least 2–3 hours for domestic and 3–4 for international flights especially for peak travel times. Make sure you download the airline's app for real-time updates. 2. Passport and Visa Delays Most passport offices remain open as long as the facility’s building is funded, but if it’s located inside a federal building that closes, applications could be delayed. Tip: Apply for passports and renewals early ideally at least 12–16 weeks before travel. Administrative backlogs can build quickly even after the government reopens. 3. National Parks and Monuments May Close During previous shutdowns, many national parks stayed “technically open” but with limited services. For example, visitor centers may be closed, trash uncollected, and restricted access. The lack of staff and maintenance could create safety and sanitation issues. Tip: Always check the official park website before you go and have a Plan B for sightseeing or outdoor activities. 4. Travel Confidence and Cancellations A prolonged shutdown can create uncertainty and anxiety, which may lead to cancellations or travel hesitancy. The good news? Most major airlines and travel suppliers continue operations normally. Tip: Work with a trusted travel advisor (like us!) who can help you navigate any sudden changes if you need to rebook your travel. How to Protect Your Trip During the shutdown there are ways to reduce stress and avoid disruption: Purchase travel insurance that includes delay or cancellation coverage. Book flexible fares and refundable hotel rates. Keep copies of travel documents (passport, itinerary, confirmations). Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to save time at security checkpoints. Work with a professional travel advisor who monitors travel alerts and can advocate on your behalf if schedules change. A Message from an Experienced Travel Advisor At Colesville Travel, we’ve guided travelers through everything, from hurricanes to airline strikes to global shutdowns. Our goal is always to keep you informed, protected, and stress-free no matter what’s happening in the world. If you have upcoming travel plans and you’re concerned about how a potential shutdown could affect your itinerary, reach out to us. We’ll review your plans, check supplier updates, and make sure you have the right protection in place. Final Thoughts A government shutdown doesn’t have to stop your travel plans. With a little preparation, flexible bookings, and the guidance of an experienced travel advisor, you can stay ahead of any disruptions. Plan smart, stay informed, and enjoy your journey with confidence. Your travel should be about making memories, not worrying about what’s happening behind the scenes. Ready to travel worry-free? Contact Colesville Travel today at 301-989-1654 or email us at cindy@colesvilletravel.com, and let us help you plan a smooth, stress-free trip no matter what’s happening in the world. Because when it comes to travel, being prepared is always the best plan. Stay inspired, Cindy #TravelTips #GovernmentShutdown #TravelAdvisory #TravelSmart #AirportLife #TSA #StressFreeTravel #TravelUpdates #GlobalEvents
Discover bring travel mindset into your daily life with 7 simple tips. Learn how to add adventure, curiosity, and joy to your everyday routine—no passport required!
Practical and Soulful Strategies for Mindful, Meaningful Travel. In an era when travel is often filtered through social media, it’s easy to focus more on the highlight reel than the experience itself. But the richest moments in travel don’t usually happen when you're taking the perfect photo but happen when you step away from the camera and immerse yourself in the world around you. As a travel advisor with more than 30 years of global experience, I’ve seen how the most transformative journeys are the ones where travelers slow down, engage deeply, and fully show up. Here's how you can take your next trip “beyond the selfie” and into the heart of your destination. 1. The Power of Slow Travel Slow travel is about quality over quantity. You don’t have to cover a dozen cities to have a meaningful trip. In fact, the more places you try to cram in, the less you truly experience any of them. Remember, you don’t have to see everything. In fact, trying to “do it all” often leaves you feeling exhausted and disconnected. Slow travel invites you to go deeper, not faster. It’s about: Choosing quality over quantity Spending time in fewer places Allowing space for spontaneity Take time to sit in a café and people-watch, get lost on a side street, or spend a full afternoon exploring a local market. Slow travel isn’t rushed; it’s rooted. And the memories last longer because you are present enough to notice them. That’s where the magic happens. 2. Engage All Five Senses To be truly present, you need more than your eyes. Lead with your senses. Listen to the languages and rhythms of daily life. Smell the scent of spices or morning bread baking. Taste something new—even if it scares you a little. Touch handmade textiles or the cool stone of ancient walls. Feel the sun, the breeze, embrace every moment. Engage your senses as soon as you arrive in your destination, it will make your experience more vivid, memorable and unforgettable. 3. Connect with People, Not Just Places Every destination is brought to life by its people. It’s not just the landmarks that you visit, it’s the conversations, the laughter, and the local people that you meet. Here are some ways to build connection: Learn a few phrases in the local language Ask your guide about their favorite neighborhood Take a cooking class or dine in a local home Support family-run businesses and artisans Cultural exchange isn’t a one-way street. Being open creates space for shared learning and meaningful impact. 4. Journal the Experience, Not Just the Events You don't need to be a writer to keep a travel journal. You just need to be curious and willing to reflect. Ask yourself questions like: What surprised me about this place? What caused me to stop and think about what I just saw? What do I want to bring home besides souvenirs? How about a new a mindset? Journaling helps you slow down, make sense of your experiences, and capture memories that photos alone can't capture. 5. Unplug with Intention Being present sometimes means stepping away from technology. Social media can wait—but the moment you're in won't last forever. Try this: Schedule one “unplugged” day or afternoon during your trip Leave your phone in your bag during meals or museum visits Take as many photos as you like, but don’t live through the lens You may be surprised by what you notice when you’re not constantly taking pictures. 6. Travel With Intention When you travel with intention, you’re not putting on a show or collecting content, you’re entering a conversation with the world. Every destination has something to teach you, if you're willing to listen. Rather than treating travel like a checklist or a social media post, approach it as a two-way exchange. Learn to connect with the land, its people, and yourself. Let your journey be more than a photo op. Let it be a time to listen, to feel, to evolve. When you return home, the most treasured souvenirs won’t be the souvenirs you purchased or your social media posts. It will be the changes that you made within yourself. Final Thoughts Ready to travel deeper? At Colesville Travel, we design immersive journeys for curious, culturally aware travelers who want more than just the postcard experience. Whether you're dreaming of traveling to Africa, South America, Europe or any other continent, Colesville Travel can curate a trip that feeds your mind, body and soul, and not just your camera roll. Let Colesville Travel plan your next meaningful escape. Contact us at 301-989-1654 or email us at cindy@colesvilletravel.com . You can also visit our website www.ColesvilleTravel.com CONTACT INFORMATION Cynthia Amin Colesville Travel Phone: 301-989-1654 Email: cindy@colesvilletravel.com Website: https://www.colesvilletravel.com #colesvilletravel #travelwithcindy #MindfulTravel #TravelWithIntention #SoulfulJourneys #SlowTravelMovement #MeaningfulTravel #AuthenticTravelExperiences #WomenWhoTravelWell #TravelDeeperLiveLighter #UnpluggedAdventures #BeyondTheSelfie #PresenceOverPictures #TransformationalTravel
In a world where travel has become more accessible than ever, many experienced travelers are craving more than just beautiful views and passport stamps. They want to travel with intention—to experience cultures deeply, engage meaningfully, and return home changed. This is the heart of purposeful travel, and it's becoming the gold standard for mature explorers who seek more than a vacation. What Is Purposeful Travel? Purposeful travel is about making meaningful connections—with people, places, history, and even yourself. It's an immersive style of travel where the goal isn’t just to relax, but to grow, learn, and give back. Whether it's standing at the Door of No Return in Ghana, listening to stories of resilience in South Africa, or sharing a meal with locals in a small Italian village, purposeful travel allows you to walk away with new perspectives and a fuller heart. Why Mature Travelers Are Leading This Movement Mature, well-traveled individuals are at the forefront of this shift because they understand that experiences matter more than souvenirs. They’re not looking to check boxes—they’re looking to transform the journey into a personal legacy. This kind of travel is ideal for: • Those celebrating milestone birthdays or retirements • Women’s groups seeking personal enrichment • Solo travelers craving connection without compromise • Couples wanting to deepen their bond through shared adventure What Does Purposeful Travel Look Like? Here are just a few examples from real journeys I curate: Ghana: Trace the powerful history of the African diaspora, visit local artisans, and experience vibrant culture through dance, storytelling, and cuisine. Join us on our next journey to Ghana on February 12 – 21, 2026. Click Here South Africa & Zimbabwe: Witness the breathtaking beauty of nature while exploring themes of social justice, healing, and unity. Join us December 27 – January 6 for our tour of South Africa and Safari and then on to Zimbabwe, January 6 – 9, 2026. Click Here Italy: Cook with locals in Tuscany, explore ancient ruins, and engage with community-focused wineries that preserve tradition and environment. The Benefits of Traveling with Intention Connection: You’ll form real bonds with people, not just take their pictures. Reflection: Travel becomes a mirror—helping you understand your place in the world. Transformation: Many travelers report these journeys as life-changing—because they are. FINAL THOUGHTS Ready to Travel with Purpose? If you're craving more from your next adventure, more depth, more joy, more connection—purposeful travel may be exactly what your soul is seeking. Join me on a journey where your curiosity leads, your heart expands, and your travel memories become your personal legacy. Looking to connect with like-minded explorers? Join the movement of mature, passionate travelers who crave more than just vacations. Explore upcoming purposeful group trips to Ghana, South Africa, and beyond by visiting our website https://www.colesvilletravel.com or contact me at cindy@colesvilletravel.com to start planning your intentional journey today. Cindy Looking to connect with like-minded explorers? Join the movement of mature, passionate travelers who crave more than just vacations. #PurposefulTravel #TransformationalTravel #MatureTravelers #CulturalImmersion #TravelWithMeaning #SoulfulJourneys #WomensTravelGroup #GroupTravelExperiences #ExploreWithHeart #TravelConnections #AfricaTravel #GhanaTour2026 #SouthAfricaAdventure #MeaningfulMoments #LegacyTravel #TravelForConnection #TravelBeyondTheSurface #TravelOver50 #CuratedExperiences #ColesvilleTravel
Save or splurge? Discover budget-friendly adventures and luxury escapes to match your travel dreams — plus tips from Colesville Travel to plan your perfect getaway.
Will TSA really deny you if you don’t have a REAL ID? Here is what you need to know before you fly. If you've been hearing about REAL ID and wondering if it really matters—yes, it really does. As your trusted travel advisor, I’m here to explain it in a way that’s simple, clear, and traveler friendly. Whether you're planning your next girls' getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, knowing the rules can make all the difference between breezing through TSA… or missing your flight. What Is the REAL ID, Anyway? The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress back in 2005, but enforcement has taken a while to go into effect. It sets higher security standards for state-issued IDs, like driver’s licenses. After multiple extensions, the big day is finally approaching. Starting on May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID (or an acceptable alternative like a passport) to board a domestic flight within the U.S. What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID? To be clear, if you show up at the airport without a REAL ID or an approved alternative form of ID, the TSA will not let you through security . That means no boarding pass, no gate access, no travel plans. As much as I love spontaneous travel adventures, this isn’t the kind you want. How Do You Know If You Have a REAL ID? Why not check your driver’s license today? If you see a gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner, congrats—you’re REAL ID ready! If you don’t, it's time to contact your local DMV and ask about upgrading your ID. Keep in mind that you'll need to bring specific documents (like a birth certificate or passport, proof of address, and Social Security card) to apply. Do You Need a REAL ID for International Travel? You don’t need a REAL ID for international flights, but you will need your U.S. passport to travel internationally and to get back into the U.S. So, take the time to check your passport and make sure it’s valid for six months past your departure date. If you travel frequently for work, family visits, or that long-awaited girls’ trip, having a REAL ID is simply more convenient for domestic travel. It's one less thing to worry about when you're juggling bags, boarding passes, and grabbing food at the airport. Why This Matters Now As your travel advisor, I want your travel experience to be seamless from start to finish. Nothing spoils a trip faster than being turned away at the airport. With the May 2025 deadline approaching, now is the time to check your ID and plan to upgrade it if needed. DMV appointments can book up quickly, and some states are still dealing with backlogs—don’t wait until the last minute! Bonus Travel Tip: Bring a Backup Even with a REAL ID, I always recommend traveling with a second form of identification (like your passport or Global Entry card), especially if you’re heading on a bucket-list trip. It’s a small step that can save you a major headache. Final Thoughts Yes, the TSA will deny you boarding for domestic flights if you don't have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative starting May 7, 2025. Let’s make sure that it never happens to you. ✨ Need help planning your next trip or have questions about travel documents? I’m here to help. Whether it’s booking your next flight, organizing a custom itinerary, or just giving you peace of mind—let’s make your next journey stress-free and unforgettable. Contact Colesville Travel at info@colesvilletravel.com or visit our website at https://www.colesvilletravel.com In the meantime, stay inspired, Cindy REAL ID deadline 2025, TSA REAL ID requirements, do I need REAL ID to fly, what is a REAL ID, REAL ID for domestic flights, TSA ID rules, travel tips USA, travel documents to fly, how to get a REAL ID
Have you ever found yourself stuck in an airport with hours to kill? Instead of aimlessly wandering through duty-free shops or mindlessly scrolling through your phone, why not turn your layover into a mini adventure? Welcome to the Airport Layover Challenge—where we prove that even a short stopover can be an unforgettable travel experience! Why Waste a Layover When You Can Explore? Many travelers see layovers as an inconvenience, but seasoned adventurers know they can be an opportunity. Some of the world’s best cities are just a short ride from their international airports. With a little planning and a spirit of adventure, you can squeeze in sightseeing, delicious food, and even a bit of culture—without missing your next flight! Step 1: Check the Clock (and the Rules!) Before dashing off into the city, check a few key details: ✅ Visa requirements – Some countries offer visa-free entry for short layovers, while others require advance applications. ✅ Time needed to clear immigration and security – Factor in the time it takes to get back to the airport. ✅ Transportation options – Choose a fast and reliable method to get downtown (trains and express buses are usually best!). ✅ Bag storage – Some airports have luggage lockers so you can explore hands-free. Step 2: Pick Your Adventure! Depending on how long you have, here are some exciting ideas for making the most of your layover: 1. The Lightning Round (3-4 Hour Layover) Not much time? Stay close to the airport but still soak in the culture! Singapore (Changi Airport): Visit Jewel Changi’s famous Rain Vortex, Butterfly Garden or hop on a quick city tour to Marina Bay Sands. Istanbul (IST): Take a taxi to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, grab some Turkish tea, and be back in time for your next flight. Amsterdam (Schiphol Airport): Catch a 15-minute train ride to Centraal Station, wander the canals, and grab a stroopwafel before heading back. 2. The Half-Day Explorer (5-7 Hour Layover) With a bit more time, you can dive deeper! Paris (CDG): Take the RER train to Notre Dame, stroll along the Seine, and snap a selfie at the Eiffel Tower before heading back. Tokyo (Narita or Haneda Airport): Jump on the Narita Express or Monorail and enjoy a sushi lunch in Shibuya or Asakusa before returning. Dubai (DXB): Head to the Burj Khalifa, walk through Dubai Mall, and enjoy a quick desert safari if you're feeling adventurous! 3. The Full-On Adventure (8+ Hour Layover) Got a whole day to kill? That’s wonderful! London (Heathrow or Gatwick): Ride the Heathrow Express to Paddington, tour Buckingham Palace, see Big Ben, and indulge in fish and chips. Beijing (PEK or PKX): Take advantage of the 144-hour visa-free transit to visit the Great Wall of China or the Forbidden City! New York City (JFK or EWR): Hop on the AirTrain to Manhattan, stroll through Central Park, and grab a famous New York slice of pizza. Step 3: Make It Back in Time! No matter how exciting your layover adventure is, DON’T miss your next flight! Aim to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Have a transportation backup plan in case of delays. Set a timer or alarm so you don’t lose track of time while exploring. Why You Should Start Planning Layover Adventures Instead of dreading long layovers, think of them as "bonus vacations." You get to experience an extra city, even if it’s just for a few hours. Plus, if you plan smartly, you can check off bucket-list destinations without needing an extra trip. Final Thoughts The next time you're booking a flight, don’t avoid layovers—embrace them! Who knows? Your next layover might just become the highlight of your journey. Would you try an Airport Layover Challenge? Let me know in the comments! If you enjoy reading this blog, feel free to forward to your friends, family and colleagues. If you want assistance booking your next trip, contact Colesville Travel at info@colesvilletravel.com or visit our website at https://www.colesvilletravel.com In the meantime, stay inspired, Cindy #LayoverChallenge #AirportAdventures #LayoverExploration #TravelMore #Wanderlust #QuickCityTour #TravelTips #ExploreTheWorld #BucketListTravel #AirportLayover #FastTravel #AdventureAwaits #ShortTripBigExperience #LayoverGoals #Globetrotter