Introduction
Choosing a mode of transport is one of the main things a traveller has to deal with when planning a trip to a foreign country, alongside choosing accommodation, acquiring a visa, etc. However, it doesn’t just end at the best
way to reach a foreign country but also stretches to topics like the best way to travel within that country, travel from airport to hotel, tips for selecting the ideal travel options, money-saving methods, etc. This page will
decode your travel-troubles and help you be a savvy traveller at foreign shores.
Best Way To Reach A Foreign Country
Depending on your starting point and your destination, you can select your ideal mode of commute. Here are the common transport options that are available for travelling to most international locations:
- By Air: When it comes to international trips, travelling by air is an option that most tourists go for. It is because flights are the fastest and the most comfortable way to travel to all major countries in the world.
Most foreign nations have their own international airports that offer them seamless air connectivity with other major countries across the globe. Depending on the size and economic state of the country, it can have more
than one international airport. For example, if you are travelling to Thailand from India, you can easily get a direct flight to Bangkok International Airport. Similarly, flights are also great for travelling to other locations,
such as the United States, Singapore, The United Kingdom, etc.
- By Road: Travelling by road, especially when it comes to an international trip, is not a viable option in most cases. This travel method only makes sense if you are travelling to a neighbouring country that is accessible
by land. For example, travelling to countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, etc., from India by road is a common practice. However, there’s no proper way to directly travel to countries like Sri Lanka, Ireland, Spain, etc.,
by road from India. However, if you are travelling to Thailand you can try the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway which would be a long scenic drive.
- By Rail: Some countries in the world are connected by international railways, offering visitors an additional mode of transfer to add to their list. However, it is not a common option and doesn’t apply to most
international destinations. So, make sure to look for other choices if this doesn’t apply in the case of your international trip.
- By Water: One of the best alternatives to flights when it comes to travelling to a foreign country is a cruise. This transport option applies to various international holiday destinations, especially island countries
and nations with a suitable coastline. It may or may not be cheaper than flights but offers a unique travel experience you can look forward to.
Best Transport Options From The Airport
Here are some common transport options available from the airport in most foreign countries;
- Bus: The most common mode of transport available from airports is bus service. You can find a prominent bus terminal located not too far from the airports in most foreign nations. There, you can get both public and private
buses that can help you reach your desired destination within the country for cheap. However, do note that in some places, you may need to have a bus pass to travel on buses.
- Local Taxi/cab: Local taxis and cabs are the best forms of private transport available right outside the airports. Besides being convenient and comfortable, they can take you right where you need to be without unnecessary
stoppages, saving time on the journey. However, they can ask for a hefty fare, which may not be negotiable in certain locations.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Ride-sharing apps are now available in most tourist-centric foreign countries. So after landing at the airport, you can ask the help desk about which ride-sharing apps offer services in the area, download
it, book your choice of ride and travel to your desired location with ease. It will be better if you research the availability of such services in the area prior to the trip as it will make things more convenient.
- Hotel Shuttle: If you have a hotel booking and want to travel there from the airport, you can call the front desk to enquire about the availability of a shuttle feature. Some hotels offer shuttle services to pick up
their guests from the airport. Do note that if you are planning on using this option, let the hotel know in advance.
Travelling Within The Foreign Land
Here are some of the best ways to travel within a foreign country during your international vacations;
- By Flights: Besides international air connectivity, most foreign countries have multiple domestic airports offering fast and reliable air transport between their major cities. It is a great option that you can go for
if you want to travel longer routes in the shortest time possible.
- By Buses: Buses are a pillar of local public transport in both developed and developing countries. Depending on the location, it can be a great option to travel in-between cities for cheap. Besides, you can also find
long-distance buses offering accessible road transport between different states and regions in a foreign country.
- By Taxis or Rental Cars: If you don’t like public transport and want to go for private travel options, consider going with taxis or rental cars. They are perfect for travelling both short and long routes in comfort.
You can easily find taxis and rental car options offering their services at reasonable prices in major tourist destinations. In addition, you can also go for the ride-sharing apps that are now available in most countries.
- By Trains: Whether it is local transport or travelling from one end to another in a foreign country, going by train can be a viable choice. Besides being fast and reliable, travelling by train is quite economical too.
- By Metro: If you are in a big city during your foreign country trip, make sure to consider travelling by metro. It is a great choice that you can go for if you are looking to travel within a big metropolitan region.
Apart from being quick, metro transport is also quite affordable and comfortable.
- Other Methods: Some foreign countries have their own unique local transport that you can consider. This includes things like suspension railway in Germany, coco taxi in Cuba, bamboo train in Cambodia, Gondola in Italy,
etc. While most of these are viable transport choices, some are just good for their experience. Besides, there are tons of places in the world where you can easily travel from one tourist place to the other by bicycle or
on foot.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Mode Of Transport
Here are some things you must consider when choosing the right transport options in a foreign country;
- Budget: The main thing to consider when opting for transport choices in a foreign country is your budget. Some transport options are reliable and fast but can cost a lot of money, which can affect other sectors of your
trip, especially if you are travelling on a budget. Hence, it is better to look for an option that can help you safely travel from one place to the other without costing a fortune.
- Accessibility and Availability: When choosing a transport option in a foreign country, make sure that it is accessible as per your trip itinerary. It means that you should go with an option that you can easily get access
from or near the place you are staying in the foreign country. Also, make sure that it is available in terms of frequency. For example, in some places, travelling locally by bus is a good choice as you can get a new one
after short intervals of 10-15 minutes, in case you miss the earlier one.
- Safety: Make sure to consider the aspect of safety when choosing a transport option. For instance, in some foreign countries, a certain type of transport option can be unsafe for unfamiliar individuals, especially international
tourists. Hence, it is better to get information regarding safe travel options as per your foreign trip destination.
- Time Scale: Some transport options can complete a route within minutes, while others can take hours. It can impact your travel itinerary, especially if you have made advanced hotel bookings. So, consider the option that
fits all your ideal travel duration requirements within your budget.
Tips For A Savvy Traveller In A Foreign Land
Here are some useful tips that you should follow when using local transport in a new country;
- No matter the transport mode, make sure to carry your essential documents and valid ID proof in an accessible and safe spot when travelling within a foreign country.
- Don’t get comfortable using a single type of transport while travelling in a foreign country. The best way to travel can change according to location, so make sure to stay informed about that.
- Use the official currency of the foreign country you are visiting when using local transport for a smooth travel experience.
- Always get details of the route prior to travelling, so you don’t miss your stop and incur additional travel time and cost.
- Use available ridesharing apps if you are unfamiliar with the regional language because it can make using local transport challenging.
- Ask the locals about the best way to travel from one place to the other. If you are still confused, consider taking help from the internet, your tour guide or hotel staff.
Tips For A Budget-Traveller
Here are some great ways to save money when using local transport in foreign country:
- Use public transport options, like buses, trains, metro, etc., as they are quite cheaper than private transport choices.
- Learn about the local transport rates so you don’t get ripped off when using the local transport services, especially taxis.
- For shorter travel routes, consider walking or using other cheaper alternatives like e-cycle, Jinriksha, etc.
- In some countries, you can buy a tourist transit card that allows free transfers on public transport for a specified number of days.
- Book tickets for flights, trains, buses, etc., over the Internet to get any active deals or discounts.
- Invest in travel insurance to keep yourself financially safe while travelling in a foreign country.
Take Home Lesson
Whether it is the best way to reach a foreign country or the ideal local transport methods available in that country, proper research is required to get the most effective answer. Choosing the right transport option will not only
keep you safe and true to the trip schedule but will also enhance your tourism experience.