I think we can all agree that traveling around the world, being able to experience new places, and meeting new people sounds like a pretty cool job. Even though it seems like a great job, it definitely requires a lot of your time and sacrifice, but the perks definitely make it all worth it. With summer just around the corner, I decided to reach out to my college friend Lela, about all the do's and dont's when visiting unfamiliar places. I am always on her case about starting a travel blog because she knows the latest traveling apps, that make your trip go a little smoother and she is constantly sharing the world from her view on her Snapchat.
What made you decide to become a flight attendant?
For years I was pursuing the career of a News Reporter, I love to write and talk, and thought I would be a good fit for tv. After a few internships and conversations with current and former reporters, I realized at age 23 I wanted a career that offered more flexibility. I figured if I had the freedom to travel…I would broaden my philosophy of the world and how it worked to uncover my purpose. I am not going to lie, I also thought about how snatched I would be in my uniform dress walking up and down the airplane aisle. SO …….I applied with American Airline.
For years I was pursuing the career of a News Reporter, I love to write and talk, and thought I would be a good fit for tv. After a few internships and conversations with current and former reporters, I realized at age 23 I wanted a career that offered more flexibility. I figured if I had the freedom to travel…I would broaden my philosophy of the world and how it worked to uncover my purpose. I am not going to lie, I also thought about how snatched I would be in my uniform dress walking up and down the airplane aisle. SO …….I applied with American Airline.
Traveling is a part of your everyday life, where is the best place you have visited so far?
That is a tricky question because every place I have visited thus far has given me life and has had its own enrichments. But, if I had to choose I would have to say Rio De Janeiro. Majority of the population there is black, and the women and men are beautiful. The panorama is amazing, enormous mountains with colorful houses scattered in the hills, surrounded by aqua sea and white sandy beaches. The lively energy is undeniable. The only downside is…you need a Brazilian Visa just go on a vacation there.
I follow you on Snapchat you always give tips about traveling abroad, what is your advice for staying safe when visiting an unfamiliar place?
Dress accordingly, do not travel to Europe wearing Miami attire just because it's summer there. If you are in a low economy area opt for a simpler outfit to avoid drawing attention to yourself and try your best not to stand out. Wear a wristlet or a strap bag, inside of them you should definitely have cash, your credit card, and the hotel card with the address on it. I also recommend putting cash in a separate place on your body like your bra or sneakers, just in case shit gets real and you are left with nothing, you will have a secret stash.
What would you say is the biggest mistake people make when traveling?
Underestimating “the locals” it can definitely be a good and a bad thing. The locals know where everything is, they can tell you exactly where to go and on what days. On the flip side, a lot of people do not do their research on the foreign currency exchange and end up overpaying for things. This happens with cab fares and simply purchasing souvenirs a lot.
I'm still on the fence about Airbnb, but from what I hear, most are pretty safe. Which do you prefer, Airbnb's or hotels?
I feel the same way you do about Airbnb. I prefer to be comfortably set up in my hotel room, laying in soft sheets feeling like a Queen. But, I have a girlfriend that uses Airbnb every time she travels, and she absolutely loves it. She sends me pictures of the places, and they are very nice and clean. Sometimes they look better than hotels. I think you should give it a try!
What are some travel apps that you use and think everyone should download?
I use “Convert”, to help me calculate the currency exchange. The way my math skills are set up….I obviously need assistance when it comes to that. I also use Google “translate”, whenever I am visiting a country where the first language is not English. There is also a new app called “Mobile Passport” used when clearing immigrations back in the U.S., but it only works for U.S. & Canadian citizens and only in some airports. Instead of standing in a long customs line you cut right through using this app.
If you could pack only one carry on, what would be in your bag?
I would pack my makeup bag of course! I can not go ANYWHERE without my Becca foundation, mascara, and lip-gloss. I need my flat irons and edge control to get these edges together. Basic hygiene products are also must. A week long of under garments. I always pack a bathing suit, sneakers & flip flops. Lastly, a little first -aid kit. Everything else I can purchase with ease.
Everyone has that one place that they've always wanted to go, what's your dream vacation?
My dream vacation is taking an Asian tour in a three month period. I want to do a travel combination by flight and sea, visiting different cities in China, Japan, and Thailand. I think the Asian culture is amazingly interesting, but to do something like this you need to have free time and your money together. I’m thinking 2018 I will be ready.
Follow her Snap ( le1a1) Instagram (THATSLELA)
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