How can I avoid tourist traps?

Want to escape the tourist throngs and truly experience a destination? Forget the predictable postcards; let’s delve into genuine travel wisdom honed across dozens of countries.

Ditch the Tourist Uniform: Blend in. Avoid flashy clothing, expensive cameras dangling conspicuously, and guidebooks held aloft like battle flags. Observe locals; their attire and demeanor offer subtle cues for seamless integration.

Embrace Public Transport: Buses, trams, subways – these are your secret weapons. They unveil hidden neighborhoods, authentic interactions, and often offer breathtaking views unavailable on organized tours. Research routes beforehand; local apps can be invaluable.

Eat Like a Local: Skip the restaurants with English menus prominently displayed and overflowing with tourists. Venture down side streets; look for places packed with locals. Don’t be afraid to try something unfamiliar – that’s where the magic happens. Street food markets are especially rewarding.

Coffee Culture Connoisseur: Forget the chain coffee shops. Find the local “cafetín,” “boulangerie,” or “koffiehuis.” It’s a cultural immersion in itself, offering a glimpse into daily life and delicious brews.

Off-Season Adventures: Traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or even the off-season offers lower prices, fewer crowds, and often a different perspective on the destination. Consider the weather, though.

Craft Your Own Itinerary: Forget pre-packaged tours. Research lesser-known attractions, museums, and historical sites. This allows for a more personalized and enriching experience. Utilize local blogs and forums for insider tips.

Patience is Key: Getting lost occasionally is part of the adventure. Embrace unplanned detours. This often leads to unexpected discoveries and unforgettable moments. Don’t rush; savor the journey.

Learn Basic Phrases: Even a few basic phrases in the local language can significantly enhance your interactions and open doors to authentic experiences. Locals appreciate the effort.

Utilize Local Guides (with Caution): While some guided tours can be beneficial, be discerning. Seek recommendations from locals or fellow travelers for trustworthy guides who offer intimate, less-commercialized experiences.

Stay in Local Accommodations: Consider guesthouses, homestays, or boutique hotels over large international chains. You’ll encounter warmer hospitality and often gain access to local insights.
Explore Beyond the City Center: Day trips to nearby villages or towns can reveal the true character of a region, far removed from the tourist bustle.

What is a typical tourist trap?

A tourist trap is essentially a business preying on unsuspecting visitors. They lure you in with the promise of a unique experience, often leveraging a popular landmark or appealing to a specific tourist interest. The key differentiator? Significant markups on everything – from admission fees to food and merchandise. You’re paying a premium simply for the location and the perceived novelty, not necessarily for quality or value.

Here’s what experienced travelers look out for:

Aggressively solicited services: Think persistent street vendors, overly friendly guides suddenly appearing, or pushy salespeople blocking your path.
Overly enthusiastic reviews: Be wary of overwhelmingly positive reviews lacking any critical perspective, particularly on sites with easily manipulated feedback systems.
Inconvenient locations: While some gems are tucked away, many traps are deliberately positioned to intercept tourist flows away from more authentic options.
Lack of authenticity: Often, the “experience” feels manufactured and lacks genuine local character. Generic souvenirs, staged performances, and bland food are telltale signs.

To avoid them:

Do your research: Read diverse reviews, including blogs and forums beyond TripAdvisor. Look for mentions of inflated prices or underwhelming experiences.
Venture off the beaten path: Explore side streets and less-trafficked areas. You’ll often find better value and more authentic local experiences.
Compare prices: Check prices at multiple establishments before committing to a purchase, especially for souvenirs or meals.
Trust your gut: If something feels too good to be true or too pushy, it probably is.

What are the signs of a tourist trap?

So, you’re wondering how to spot a tourist trap? It’s a skill honed through years of travel, believe me. The telltale signs are often subtle at first, but become glaring with experience.

High tourist volume is the biggest red flag. Think dozens of tour buses disgorging passengers simultaneously. This isn’t always a bad thing – popular places *can* be worthwhile – but it’s a strong indicator that you’re dealing with a place optimized for quantity over quality.

Beyond sheer numbers, look for these key characteristics:

Exorbitantly priced services: Restaurants, shops, and activities will charge significantly more than comparable offerings elsewhere. Do your research beforehand to gauge realistic prices.
Mediocre, mass-produced food: Forget authentic local cuisine. Tourist traps often serve bland, generic food designed for speed and high turnover, not flavor.
Low-quality souvenirs: Cheaply made trinkets with little cultural significance. These items are designed for impulse purchases and lack genuine craftsmanship.
Aggressive solicitation: You’ll be constantly bombarded by vendors pushing overpriced goods and services. A gentle “no thank you” should suffice, but persistent pressure is a classic trap signal.
Lack of local clientele: If the establishment seems to solely cater to tourists, with few (or no) locals present, it’s a strong indication that the prices and quality are inflated to meet tourist expectations rather than serving the local community.

Pro Tip: Look for places frequented by locals. These are often the hidden gems offering authentic experiences at fair prices. Explore side streets, venture away from the main tourist drags, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations.

Another red flag: overly enthusiastic reviews online, particularly those that lack detail or feel generic. Sometimes, fake reviews are employed to lure unsuspecting travelers.

Ultimately, careful research and a healthy dose of skepticism are your best weapons against tourist traps. Happy travels!

What makes you not a tourist?

The chasm between traveler and tourist isn’t about destinations, but duration and intention. A tourist’s trip is typically short, a predefined itinerary crammed into a limited timeframe. This often leads to a frenetic pace, prioritizing ticking off checklist items – iconic landmarks, popular restaurants, and obligatory snapshots – over genuine engagement.

Time is the critical differentiator. A traveler, conversely, prioritizes immersion. Their journey isn’t about seeing as much as possible, but experiencing as deeply as possible. They may spend days in a single location, delving into local culture, interacting with residents, and allowing serendipity to shape their experience. This approach inevitably results in a richer, more meaningful understanding of a place.

Consider these key distinctions:

Pace: Tourists rush; travelers linger.
Focus: Tourists chase sights; travelers chase experiences.
Interaction: Tourists observe; travelers participate.
Transportation: Tourists utilize pre-packaged tours; travelers explore independently, embracing alternative modes of transport.
Accommodation: Tourists often stay in large, impersonal hotels; travelers might opt for local guesthouses or homestays, fostering genuine interaction with locals.

Ultimately, it’s less about the destinations visited and more about the mindset and approach. A traveler seeks authentic connection, embracing the unexpected and allowing the journey itself to become the destination. It’s about cultivating a deeper understanding, fostering empathy, and creating lasting memories beyond the surface level.

What is the biggest tourist trap?

Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco frequently tops lists of the world’s biggest tourist traps, and for good reason. The sheer volume of tourists, coupled with inflated prices and often underwhelming experiences, makes it a prime example. You’ll find similar situations in iconic locations like Times Square and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, both notorious for overpriced merchandise and aggressive hawkers.

Beyond the obvious: While these places offer photo opportunities and a taste of the city’s popular image, the genuine San Francisco experience, for example, lies beyond the hordes at Pier 39. Consider exploring quieter neighborhoods like North Beach with its literary history or the Mission District’s vibrant murals and Latin American culture. Similarly, discovering lesser-known gems in New York City or Los Angeles requires venturing away from the heavily-touristed areas.

Tips for navigating tourist traps:

Research alternatives: Find less crowded, equally interesting attractions offering similar experiences at a better price.
Visit off-season: Crowds are significantly smaller, and prices may be lower.
Go early or late: Beat the rush by visiting popular sites before they get crowded.
Consider guided walking tours: They can offer insights that you might miss on your own and often take you to lesser-known places.
Embrace local culture: Seek out independently owned businesses and restaurants rather than chain establishments.

Barcelona and Hawaii, as mentioned, also boast their share of tourist traps. In Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter, while beautiful, can feel overrun with tourists. Hawaii, especially Waikiki, suffers from similar issues, making it crucial to explore beyond the main tourist hubs to discover the islands’ true natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Remember: authentic travel often involves venturing off the beaten path.

How to tell if a restaurant is a tourist trap?

Seven warning signs a restaurant is a tourist trap:

Aggressive Solicitation: A host aggressively soliciting you from the street is a major red flag. Legitimate restaurants rarely need to employ such tactics.
Prime Tourist Location: Right in the heart of a heavily trafficked tourist area, often lacking local businesses nearby. Consider venturing a block or two off the main drag for more authentic options.
Generic, Predictable Menu: A menu solely in English with overly familiar dishes (think “spaghetti with meatballs” everywhere) lacking local specialties. Look for menus showcasing regional cuisine or handwritten daily specials.
All-Tourist Clientele: If the restaurant is exclusively filled with tourists, it’s a strong indicator it’s catering to a transient, rather than a loyal local, crowd. A mix of tourists and locals is a better sign.
Oversized Menu: An excessively large menu, offering everything from pizza to Pad Thai, often signifies low-quality, pre-prepared food. Smaller menus usually indicate fresher, higher-quality ingredients sourced locally.
Lack of Local Staff: The absence of local staff can suggest a focus on quick turnover of tourists rather than building a relationship with the community. Observe the staff – do they seem comfortable and knowledgeable about the food?
Excessive Seating Capacity: A huge number of tables crammed into a small space often indicates a focus on volume over quality and a potentially rushed dining experience. Look for smaller, cozier establishments with a more intimate atmosphere.

Bonus Tip: Check online reviews from multiple sources, paying close attention to reviews from locals or those who mention specific dishes. Photos can also be helpful in assessing the quality of food and the overall atmosphere. Also, consider browsing local food blogs or forums for recommendations.

How can I be a Traveller not a tourist?

Forget rigid itineraries; embrace spontaneity. A traveler’s path unfolds organically, dictated by whispers of adventure, not pre-booked tours. Resist the siren call of predictable, homogenized experiences. McDonalds? A culinary black hole to be avoided.

Prioritize authentic engagement. Bypass the crowded, overpriced tourist traps. Instead, seek out hidden gems – local markets brimming with life, quiet cafes where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the murmur of conversation, ancient ruins whispering tales of forgotten empires. These moments are where true travel lies.

Financial freedom is key. Budget travel isn’t about deprivation; it’s about resourcefulness. Embrace free activities: hiking stunning trails, exploring charming neighbourhoods on foot, attending free concerts or local festivals. Prioritize experiences over material possessions; memories are priceless.

Reimagine transportation. Trains, buses, and even bicycles offer immersive journeys, allowing you to connect with the landscape and its people at a deeper level. Flying might be efficient, but it misses the heart of the journey. Embrace the slower pace; savor the details.

Cultivate genuine connection. Seek out local interactions. Learn basic phrases in the local language; it’s a gesture of respect that opens doors to unexpected friendships and untold stories. Stay in locally-owned guesthouses or hostels – these offer a chance to interact with fellow travelers and locals alike, broadening your perspective and enriching your journey.

Embrace the unexpected. The most memorable travel moments often arise from the unplanned detours, the happy accidents, the serendipitous encounters. Be open to the unknown; it’s where the magic happens.

Remember essential gear. A well-worn map, a trusty notebook, and a camera to capture the fleeting moments – these are far more valuable than a plethora of electronic gadgets. Pack light; it fosters freedom and mobility.

Understand local customs. Research the culture beforehand; learn about etiquette and appropriate behavior. Respect local traditions; it shows you value their way of life.

What are the three ways of trapping?

Trapping a soccer ball is fundamental, a skill honed not just on the pitch, but also, I’ve found, on the uneven surfaces of countless global football fields. Mastering these techniques elevates your game, transforming you from a tourist on the field to a seasoned local. There are several key methods:

Step Trap: The simplest technique. Imagine yourself on a dusty pitch in Marrakech, the sun blazing. A simple step, placing the ball directly under your foot, is all you need to bring it under control. This is effective for slower, easier-to-manage balls. Perfect for those leisurely kickabouts after a long day exploring ancient ruins.

Inside Trap: This involves using the inside of your foot to cushion the ball’s impact. I’ve used this successfully on everything from polished stadium turf to the bumpy, grassless fields in rural Argentina. The key is to use your foot’s inside surface to decelerate and control the ball’s momentum. Practice makes perfect, and I’ve found that regular practice drastically improves your feel for the ball.

Thigh Trap & Chest Trap: These are more advanced techniques, useful when the ball’s trajectory is higher. The thigh trap is perfect for a ball just below chest level. Think of those chaotic moments in a crowded favela pick-up game in Rio – controlling a bouncing ball with your thigh, keeping it close to your body, is essential. The chest trap (use your chest to cushion the ball down) requires more practice and body awareness, but it’s incredibly effective for receiving high, fast passes; I recall perfecting this maneuver during training sessions on the shores of a stunning Thai beach.

Pro Tip: No matter the technique, maintaining a relaxed yet focused posture is crucial. It prevents unnecessary strain and enhances your control, crucial whether you’re playing barefoot on a beach in Bali or in a proper stadium.

How to avoid being targeted as an American tourist?

Traveling internationally as an American doesn’t necessitate camouflage, but blending in subtly can enhance your experience. Avoid overt displays of American branding; steer clear of loud, flashy clothing and those ubiquitous “I ♥ NY” tees. Opt for neutral colors and clothing styles common in your destination.

Language is key. While fluency isn’t expected, learning basic phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in the local language demonstrates respect and makes interactions smoother. A pocket phrasebook or translation app are invaluable.

Cultural sensitivity is paramount. Research local customs and etiquette beforehand. Understand norms regarding tipping, personal space, and public behavior. Observing and adapting to local conventions is far more effective than trying to “hide” your nationality.

Body language speaks volumes. Loud conversations or boisterous behavior can attract unwanted attention. Maintain a moderate tone and volume, and be mindful of your surroundings. Observe how locals interact and try to mirror a similar level of volume and energy.

Utilize local transportation: Opt for buses or subways over taxis – it’s often cheaper and immerses you in the local culture.
Engage with locals respectfully: Ask for directions or recommendations in a polite and unassuming manner. Show genuine interest in their culture and avoid making sweeping generalizations.
Be aware of your surroundings: Maintain situational awareness, just as you would at home. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive electronics.

Remember: The goal isn’t to deceive but to demonstrate respect for the local culture. This approach often fosters positive interactions and creates more enriching travel experiences. Being a respectful traveler is more valuable than avoiding recognition.

Are there cameras in restaurants?

certainly yes. I’ve travelled extensively, eaten in countless establishments from bustling city bistros to remote countryside inns, and I can confidently say security cameras are commonplace.

Why? It’s not just about catching thieves. While preventing theft – both of cash and customer belongings – is a major reason, it’s only part of the picture. These systems play a crucial role in:

Managing Crowds and Flow: In busy restaurants, cameras help staff monitor queues, optimize table turnover, and ensure smooth service.
Staff Training and Performance: Footage can be used for training purposes, allowing staff to review their interactions with customers and identify areas for improvement. It’s not about spying, but about constructive feedback and better service.
Incident Management: Should an accident or dispute occur, cameras provide vital evidence for resolving issues fairly and efficiently. This protects both staff and customers.
Health and Safety: Monitoring kitchens and food preparation areas helps maintain hygiene standards and identify potential safety hazards.

Operational Efficiency: Beyond security, cameras contribute significantly to a restaurant’s efficiency. Data gathered can reveal peak hours, popular dishes, and customer preferences, informing decisions about staffing, menu design, and overall operation.

My Tip: Don’t let the presence of cameras detract from your dining experience. Most well-run restaurants use them discreetly, focusing on security and operational improvement, not surveillance of individual diners. Enjoy your meal!

What makes a tourist trap?

A tourist trap isn’t simply a place frequented by tourists; it’s a business model meticulously designed to capitalize on unsuspecting visitors. It’s an establishment, or cluster of them, strategically located near popular attractions or tourist hubs. The core characteristic? Exploitation of the unfamiliar. They prey on the transient nature of tourists, leveraging their limited time and local knowledge.

This manifests in several ways:

Inflated prices: Services, meals, souvenirs—everything is marked up significantly beyond their actual value. This price gouging relies on the tourist’s unwillingness to haggle or seek alternatives.
Subpar quality: The experience often fails to meet expectations. Food might be bland, souvenirs cheaply made, and services rushed or inattentive. The focus is on volume, not quality.
Aggressive sales tactics: From persistent hawkers to misleading advertising, tourist traps employ high-pressure sales techniques to push unwanted purchases.
Manufactured authenticity: Many tourist traps fabricate a sense of local culture or history, often presenting a distorted or romanticized version to appeal to stereotypical expectations.
Hidden fees: Unexpected charges, such as entrance fees or service charges, can significantly inflate the final cost.

Having visited dozens of countries, I’ve learned to spot these traps. They’re often characterized by a lack of local patronage, an overabundance of English signage, and a general feeling of being “processed” rather than welcomed. Ultimately, the defining factor is a blatant disregard for providing genuine value for money; the goal is solely profit maximization at the expense of the tourist experience.

Recognizing these signs allows savvy travelers to avoid these pitfalls and instead discover authentic experiences that offer genuine value and cultural immersion. Remember, the best travel memories aren’t manufactured—they’re organically experienced.

What do travelers call non travelers?

The term “gorger” used by the Romani people to describe non-Romani individuals highlights the deep-rooted cultural distinction between nomadic and settled communities. My travels across dozens of countries have shown me how such distinctions, born from vastly different lifestyles, can shape language and social dynamics. The Romani, with their centuries-long tradition of itinerancy, possess a rich and complex culture, often misunderstood by outsiders.

Understanding the term “gorger”: It’s crucial to approach this term with sensitivity. While not inherently offensive, it reflects a historical power imbalance and cultural separation. It underscores the Romani experience of being marginalized and othered. Understanding the context is vital to avoid misinterpretations.

Beyond “gorger”: Variations in Romani terminology: The specific term used might vary slightly depending on the regional dialect of Romani spoken. The Romani language itself isn’t monolithic; it’s a collection of related dialects, reflecting the group’s diverse geographic distribution.

The Romani experience of travel: The Romani nomadic lifestyle isn’t just about physical movement; it’s a fundamental aspect of their identity and cultural practice. This lifestyle has historically been met with prejudice and discrimination, leading to difficulties in accessing services and resources.

Cultural insights gleaned from travel: During my travels, I’ve observed similar phenomena in other nomadic or semi-nomadic groups worldwide. Each group, while distinct, shares experiences of cultural preservation, adaptation to changing environments, and the challenges of maintaining traditions in a globalized world.

Further exploration: Learning about the Romani language and culture can provide valuable insights into a rich and complex heritage often overlooked.

How to protect a phone from pickpockets?

Pickpockets are opportunistic thieves, prevalent in crowded tourist areas. Protecting your phone requires vigilance and proactive measures. The cardinal rule is never to leave your valuables unattended. This applies equally to train seats, restaurant tables, and even seemingly safe spaces like café bars.

Instead of placing your phone on a surface, keep it on your person at all times. Front pockets are preferable to back pockets, as they offer greater security. However, remember to transfer it to a secure bag or inner pocket once you’re finished using it.

Consider these additional strategies:

Invest in anti-theft gear: This includes crossbody bags worn across your chest, hidden pockets in clothing, or even RFID-blocking wallets and phone cases to protect against electronic theft.
Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert, especially in crowded areas known for pickpocketing. Avoid distractions like maps or heavily engaging with your phone while walking.
Use phone straps: A wrist or neck strap prevents accidental drops and makes grabbing your phone much more difficult for a thief.
Utilize phone-finding apps: While not a preventative measure, apps like “Find My” can help you locate your phone if it is lost or stolen. Ensure you’ve already activated this feature before you need it.
Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that includes coverage for lost or stolen electronics. This can offer a financial safety net in case of theft.

Remember, prevention is key. By practicing these techniques, you significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of pickpocketing.

What is a common reason for trapping?

Trapping, a practice spanning millennia and cultures worldwide, boasts a diverse range of motivations. Subsistence remains a cornerstone, particularly in remote communities where trapping provides essential food and income, often involving traditional techniques passed down through generations. I’ve witnessed this firsthand in the Arctic, where indigenous peoples utilize ingenious traps for arctic fox and seals, ensuring community survival.

Wildlife management is another significant driver. In many countries, including Canada and parts of the US, trapping plays a crucial role in controlling populations of specific species, preventing overgrazing or damage to ecosystems. For instance, beaver trapping helps maintain riverbank stability, preventing flooding and preserving aquatic habitats. The effectiveness of this is often dependent on carefully regulated quotas and sustainable practices.

Beyond subsistence and management, fur harvesting continues to be a key reason for trapping, although ethical considerations and market fluctuations significantly influence its scale. While fur remains a valuable commodity in certain markets, consumer demand and animal welfare concerns are increasingly shaping the industry’s trajectory. I’ve observed stark differences in the regulation and acceptance of fur trapping across countries, reflecting varied cultural perspectives and environmental policies.

Finally, the cultural heritage aspect cannot be overlooked. In numerous countries, trapping represents a deep-rooted connection to the land and ancestral practices, preserving traditional skills and knowledge transfer. This connection transcends mere economic value and constitutes an integral part of cultural identity. From the intricate traps of Siberian hunters to the carefully woven snares of Australian Aboriginal communities, the cultural significance is palpable.

In summary:

Subsistence: Providing food and income.
Wildlife Management: Controlling populations to preserve ecosystems.
Fur Harvesting: A commercial enterprise subject to ethical and market pressures.
Cultural Heritage: Maintaining traditional skills and connection to the land.

What are the three safe trapping practices?

Safe trapping hinges on meticulous planning and respect for the environment. Following established trapping guidelines is paramount; they’re not suggestions, but crucial safety nets.

Trap placement is critical. Avoid areas where animals could become entangled in natural obstacles like thorny bushes or man-made hazards such as fences. I’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences of such negligence during my expeditions. Always select a location ensuring smooth trap functionality – debris can easily compromise a trap’s effectiveness, resulting in suffering for the animal and frustration for you. Imagine trekking for miles only to find your trap jammed by a fallen branch!

Consider the surroundings. Never place traps near trails, campsites, or residential areas. Not only is this a safety issue for humans, but it also increases the risk of non-target capture. This is a point often overlooked, even by experienced trappers. Remember, a well-placed trap is one that operates ethically and effectively. Always prioritize minimizing disturbance to the ecosystem.

Careful Site Selection: Study the area meticulously, mapping potential hazards and animal paths.
Trap Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your traps to ensure they’re functioning properly. A rusty snap is a dangerous snap.
Species-Specific Traps: Use the appropriate trap for the target species. Using the wrong trap can lead to injury or escape.

How do you not appear as a tourist?

Blending In: An Adventurer’s Guide to Avoiding the Tourist Label

Looking like a seasoned traveler, not a wide-eyed tourist, requires more than just mimicking locals. It’s about embodying the spirit of adventure and subtly integrating into the environment.

Dress the Part (but Practically): Ditch the obvious tourist gear. Opt for comfortable, functional clothing suitable for the activity and climate, mirroring local styles without being a costume. Hiking boots for trekking, lightweight athletic clothing for exploring cities, but avoid anything overtly branded or brightly colored.
The Camera Conundrum: While documenting adventures is crucial, avoid constantly brandishing a large DSLR. Use a smaller, less conspicuous camera or your phone for quick shots. Learn to be discreet, capturing moments organically rather than staging photos.
Navigate Discreetly: Pre-download offline maps and use your phone subtly. Check maps in cafes or less crowded areas. Learn basic directional phrases in the local language. Utilize GPS discreetly, but remember to pay attention to your surroundings – it is far more rewarding to get wonderfully lost and discover something new.
Language Immersion Beyond Phrases: Learn a few basic conversational phrases, but don’t be afraid to use gestures and simple English. Being receptive and attempting local language demonstrates respect and opens doors to genuine interactions. Learning basic local greetings and phrases regarding food and activities is very helpful. Consider downloading a translation app.
Street Smarts: Research common scams. But more importantly, cultivate a heightened awareness of your surroundings. Trust your instincts. This is essential not just for avoiding scams but also for staying safe during high-energy activities.
Currency Confidence: Familiarize yourself with the currency before you arrive. Practice exchanging money discreetly and avoid counting large sums of cash in public. Having smaller bills and coins readily available makes transactions smoother.
Guidebook Stealth: Instead of a bulky guidebook, use digital resources or concise travel notes. Review points of interest beforehand and try to absorb information organically through conversations and observation.
Embrace the Unexpected: The best travel experiences often arise from spontaneity. Be open to unplanned detours and embrace the unexpected – it’s where genuine connection and adventure thrives. Be prepared for things to go wrong and learn to adapt – that’s where the real journey lies.