5 things to make a perfect holiday.

Travelling is fun isn't it? I've done a fair bit, surviving on snippets of the local language, navigated my way through flight connections at Bogota airport, scammed into plastic wrapping my suitcase in Quito, but still I've come out the other end with great memories and seen some amazing places.

I have learnt a lot exploring South America, Greece, France and Tunisia, to name but a few. Getting lost was part of the fun and so if you are thinking of visiting England, once travel is possible again, here are 5 tips to help you get the best from your holiday.

1. DON'T OVER PLAN YOUR VISIT.

It is better to be flexible. Have an idea what you'd like to see or places to visit, whether that's, London, Stratford -upon Avon, York etc. I have found that you end up meeting people, and sometimes hear about something near by and think, I'll go to see that tomorrow! So plan for time that enables flexibility, and if you don't see everything, well it's a reason to come back.

2. TRAVEL INSURANCE.

What are the risks of places you visit, anywhere in the world? You could loose your passport, loose cash, get injured or need medical attention. Get insurance which covers the basics, lost luggage for example, and use common sense. In England I can assure you, Coups, Volcanoes and Earthquakes are unlikely, you don't need cover for these, and I mention them because the only time I couldn't cover myself for the latter was when I was climbing an active Volcano in Galapagos. So be aware of what you are covered for and what you are not but do get insurance.

3. PHOTO'S WITH YOU IN THEM.

Have you ever been on holiday with loved ones, the children, and got home and there is always one person missing from the picture? Personally I don't like having my photo taken but when you are somewhere special, don't be shy, ask someone to take a photo of you all. Even if you're on your own don't miss out on being snapped in front of one of the wonders of the world or your favourite place.

4. LEARN A FEW WORDS OF THE LANGUAGE.

If you're visiting the UK there is a good chance you already speak English, but I would say no matter where you travel in the world always learn the basics. On my travels I have always found that trying to speak the language has its own rewards, the locals appreciate the effort, it is better manners, and on more than one occasion I have received better service and freebies! Give it a go!

5. TAKE NOTICE OF LANDMARKS.

I have met many visitors asking for directions to local coach parks in York, hopelessly lost. I see the colour drain from their face as you try to work out which of the 3 they may have come from. Now getting lost is fun, but if you have a coach or train to catch it can be daunting. My advice is always take notice of your surroundings, write down street names and hotel names you are using. Choose something you'll remember to help navigate your way back to where you need to be, for example, may be there is a pub near by, a river, a memorial, anything to help you get from A to B and back!