The Perfect Time to Travel

Every time I travel, something crazy happens back in the States.

What's worse is discussing these issues with locals and trying to explain things from an American perspective. 

Yes, the world thinks we have problems.

America is like that crazy uncle—you know he has serious problems, but you love him anyway.
 

Either way, I'm glad to be coming back home.

I hear many excuses for why people don't travel enough.

Everyone wants to travel more, but they claim it's never the right time.

Here's the truth: the present moment is always the best time to travel, no matter your life situation—because circumstances can change in an instant.

Let me share some situations that can suddenly limit your ability to travel:
 

Health - Your well-being can change without warning, so don't take good health for granted. If you're able-bodied, be grateful and travel while you can. And remember—it's not just your own health that can change in an instant, but also that of your loved ones. When a family member falls ill, it can quickly limit your ability to travel.

Global economic changes - Political tensions and world leaders' decisions can make certain countries suddenly inaccessible. Take South Korea, for example—the Prime Minister just declared martial law last week. So I'm letting that destination cool down before adding it back to my travel list. Unfortunately, a significant portion of the world is currently restricted for travel.

Exchange rate changes - Currency fluctuations directly impact travel possibilities. Japanese citizens, despite living in a highly developed country, face challenges with international travel due to unfavorable exchange rates. When exchange rates work in your favor, seize the opportunity to travel.

Work setup - The work-from-home trend has given many people the freedom to travel while using minimal PTO—that's awesome! If you're in this position, make the most of it because it might not last. We're already seeing a shift back to office work.

Regulatory changes - Credit card points currently make travel incredibly accessible, but pending regulations like the Credit Card Competition Act could change that. These changes might increase travel costs significantly.

The bottom line?

The future is uncertain, so don't wait for the "perfect time" to travel.

The right time is now—use what you have and make the most of it.

Keep traveling, 
Andrew

Remember that when traveling abroad, you're an ambassador for your country—act accordingly.

Cocktail of the Week

The Sgroppino cocktail originated in Italy during the Renaissance as a refreshing palate cleanser in Venice. Its name derives from the Italian word sgroppare, meaning “to untangle,” symbolizing its light and invigorating qualities that “untangle” a heavy meal.
 

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop lemon sorbet

• 1 oz (30 ml) vodka

• 2 oz (60 ml) Prosecco

Preparation:

1. Place the lemon sorbet in a chilled mixing bowl or glass.
2. Add vodka and whisk gently until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually pour in Prosecco while whisking lightly to maintain the bubbles.
4. Serve immediately in a chilled flute or coupe glass.
5. Garnish with mint leaves or lemon zest.
    

Random Travel Thought

Remember that when traveling abroad, you're an ambassador for your country—act accordingly.

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The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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