Travel Apps Must Haves -

Traveling can be very stressful -- delays, cancelation, etc.
But luckily, more and more innovative developers have come up with an amazing range of apps designed to make our travels smoother.


I want to Book/Plan ________ (insert related items here) -

Skyscanner: A very clean-looking app that does everything you need it to do when it comes to flight searches. The app aggregates fares from both airlines and other big travel sites so you're guaranteed to bag the best deal. There is also an option to pin the search to your start screen so users can keep an eye on the price fluctuations.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

TripIt: This is, by far, the closest thing most of us can have to a PA. And of course, a lot cheaper too ;) All you have to do is forward your original confirmation from vendors to plans@tripit.com and the app will automatically generates your itinerary for you. You can edit the itinerary even from your mobile devices and also able to share it with friends/families.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

I want to Navigate __________ (insert related cities here) -

Grab (formerly GrabTaxi & MyTeksi): With the largest pool of drivers in Southeast Asia, Grab offers the fastest booking service and reliable rides at the touch of a screen. You can choose to pay by cash or credit card and your receipt will be sent directly to your registered email.

Currently only serving Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Waze: A GPS-meets-social networking app with a rather accurate result. Just tap in your destination and user-submitted traffic reports will make sure you get there as quick as possible. There's also a speech recognition option for those with their hands on the wheel.

So who needs a sat-nav right?

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Made it to the Destination, it's time to Explore -

TripAdvisor: Whenever I need brutally honest reviews of hotels/restaurants/attractions, this is my go-to app. It strips away the usual glossy reviews one may find on a typical touristy info-mag. But some users of this app are hard to please. You most likely will find complaints next to your favourite spots -- so beware ;)

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Time Out: Offers an in-depth coverage in an ever growing number of cities. Can be useful in both your home country and while traveling. All you need to do is switch the city, tap the relevant "Near Me" option and, voila, you get the updated recommendations neatly on your mobile screen.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Be Sure to Avoid Miscommunication -

Google Translate: Unbeatable - as far as general translation apps go. Boasts enough features to satisfy most users (if you're a pedantic linguist, then too bad). One thing I'm most intrigued about is the "word lens" tool where you point your camera to the foreign word and have it translated in real time on your screen.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Memrise: An incredibly well designed app. It uses images to make learning easy and fun. Not a replacement for a proper language tuition but it helps to get the basics or keep yourself fresh on grammar/vocabulary. Also available in offline mode :)

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).


So -- browse well, take your pick and start globe-trotting!

Relocating Overseas? Five Things That Might Help -

Cross-posted from my blog, The Runaway Expat.

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Moving abroad for the first time can (occasionally) be a very baffling decision.
But if you're considering it, I'd say "Go for it!" --

It will not only be life changing; but a rewarding experience too. Trust me.


Research -

So you've accepted this amazing job offer in a far-flung land. Go online -- get to know where you're going, talk to people who have been there. You know, do something about it. If possible, ask your new company to allow a pre-visit so you'll know what to expect when you arrive.

Meet People - 

When you first arrive in your new host country, it is important to meet people and make new friends. Get involve at school (if you're a parent), seek out local groups and don't just stick to the expats (though I quite like InterNations community). Not isolating yourself from others can greatly improve your perspective of your new home and it helps to have local (and expats alike) friends to connect with.

Learn the Language - 

This doesn't mean you have to be fluent in the span of one month. But, yes, learn the language of your new home. It'll make life much easier especially if you're going to live in a country where English isn't widely spoken. Know the basic at the very least. It will help you get around, and boost relationships at your new workplace.

Be Open; Embrace Independence - 

If you've always been dependent on someone (it could be your parents, spouse, etc.), you might have a hard time abroad. It is important to learn how to do things yourself. You also need to be comfortable being alone, be open to surprises and not always compare your host country to your home. Sure, the grass might be greener at home but if you keep thinking about it, it'll make your transition a very hard one.

"No Vacancies" - 

Don't underestimate how many guests you will have in your first year abroad. Sometimes, these requests might even come from people you haven't heard from in years. I'm not saying say no to everyone; but don't let yourself get overbooked. You need time to get to know your new city, your new life. Constantly having guests to entertain is certainly not conducive.


And honestly. It will not be a bed of roses -- there will be times when your new expat life displeases you, when you desperately want to go home to your comfort zone. But then, there will be days when you realise how lucky you are to have the opportunities many can only dream of having.


So, live it up.
Bon Voyage! Gueti Reis! 잘다녀오십시오!


All the very best of luck with your new adventure.