There are different categories of information that needs to be acquired from different sources.
For someone who travels as extensively as I do, I rarely have time to figure out all the information in the world online or through extensive research.
Information that I need before I reach my destination
Where am I lodging?
Basically, I know where I am putting my bag as I reach there. A sense of plan is there depending on the time I reach there. Sometimes you reach late at night. Sometimes you reach very early.
This is one of the critical information that I really want before I reach. I want to know where I would get the best value for my money.
Questions about my lodging
– How close is it to all the places that I plan to visit?
– Quality of basic amenities like washroom
– Quality of the rooms and furnishing
– Would I get a good breakfast?
– Any special promotions they are running
– Any special amenities that would affect my stay.
Duration of my stay
Not everyone in the world has infinite time on their hand where they can. If I am traveling with my family then it is super fast forward. Its like activity every single second. We don’t take a breather.
If I am traveling solo, I take my time. However, I like to know the city a little before deciding the number of days I will be spending there. Would it be 2 weeks or would it 2/3 days.
Visa Information
This could totally
Does destination have VOA (Visa on Arrival), E visa? If not – can I apply in a foreign country or do I have to apply in my home country? How long does it take to process the visa?
Weather
What kind of clothing do I need to carry to the destination? Do I need to plan something to carry to the destination? Swim Trunks? Ski Gear etc.
Once I have landed to the destination, I don’t plan intense itineraries. I usually go to my hotel concierge to get a basic idea of what I am doing there. Get a free map and circle things that I plan to do.