Bungalow Destinations

When I take a journey somewhere, I like to be prepared, add a little bit of fashion, and do it in style. So I’m gonna share with you all a few travel tips that I use all the time.

First and foremost, I highly recommend a card holder in lieu of a wallet. Wallet’s are simply too bulky and face it, they create unflattering bulges in your resort shorts. Card holders are certainly more convenient and ensures that you’ll only carry the necessities. In addition, many even come with slots for storing additional cash, or even pocket-size metro maps.

Now, unless you’re venturing to a destination spot for a week or more, pack light. You don’t want the burden of carrying heavy luggage for a weekend getaway. The last thing you need on a getaway is to pull a muscle or to feel physically drained due to luggage. As a remedy, I recommend a duffle bag. They’re small, durable, can carry your essentials and even an extra pair of flip flops or formal shoes for going out at night.

Another tip, keep a smart phone in hand. I never venture out without my iPhone 4. It’s great for utilizing travel apps such as Around Me, Yelp, Trip Advisor, GPS, and AAA. You never know what may go wrong, or if you’ll simply just like to know where’s a good Chinese restaurant or full-service cocktail bar without having to ask a local or wait in line for your hotel concierge.

Next, book directly with your choice of hotel and not through a discounted third party. Trust me, the service you’ll receive is better and it ends up pretty much paying for itself.

I do this all the time and believe it or not, the hotels appreciate it. In fact, they’ll most likely even honor you for it by adding you to their rewards program, comping you a free night’s stay (if you’ll be staying over at least three-five nights) and certainly upgrading you from a booked standard room to a suite. They may even throw in a pair of poolside cabana two-for one coupons, or refreshments/chocolates.

Lastly, it pays to check-in your choice of stay either late in the evening or past 9pm. The front desk clerks tend to not be busy. Take advantage by handing them a tip before you even get assigned your room. The front desk clerks really appreciate tips because they don’t receive them often.

As such, if the better rooms such as pool/Gardens/beach views or suites are still vacant, you’ll find yourself enjoying your stay just a little bit more.

-Bungalow Bum