TRAVEL myths are a lot like old wives tales – they seem to last and do the rounds, but they are often complete poppycock.
Some might have been true–or partially so–decades ago, but even though situations have changed these myths have become regarded as gospel. Unfortunately the exaggerated half-truths that make up a travel myth do make them sound rather more exciting than they are and hence perhaps the attraction and longevity of the myth.
There are a number of these myths out there that range anything from when to get cheap flights to the level of English spoken, the effectiveness of anti-malarial medicine, the need for an International Drivers Permit, getting bumped to first class and where you should get your money changed. Here are five that need a good pinch of salt.
English is spoken everywhere
English is without doubt an international language and is certainly widespread, but that doesn’t mean everyone you meet will understand no matter how slowly and clearly you speak. And you may even meet those that understand and still don’t want to speak it! In fact best estimates put the level of English at about one third of the global population only which essentially leaves several billion people you could meet that won’t speak it. Some cultures have also experienced another colonial influence. For example in parts of Africa the locals are more likely to have a smattering of French than English.
Last minute travel deals are the best
In actual fact the opposite is often true – the closer the time of departure the airline/travel company may charge more knowing there are few seats left and someone will be desperate enough for a last minute ticket. In some cases however this might be different such as for a car rental when you may pick up last minute deals.
However the other adage of tickets being cheaper the further in advance you buy them, is not necessarily true either. Cheap seats can become available at any time, sometimes closer to departure, sometimes in advance. Always shop around and keep tabs on the fare sales. Registering for the email newsletters that airlines send out is a good way of keeping abreast of deals.
Pic: AP.
Mobile phones crash planes
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and even NASA have been unable to prove that the use of mobile phones on flights does interfere with any instruments. However as there is still some uncertainty the ban, first introduced in the 1990s, is still in place more as a “better safe than sorry” approach, although some airlines now only enforce it during takeoff and landing. Some pilots have admitted getting passengers to turn off devices also makes them concentrate on safety instructions and what’s going on so if there is an emergency they can react.
Save by buying at an airport duty-free store
It is often assumed goods in these shops are cheaper than at home. However this is not always the case. These shops rely on the fact travellers have unused currency in their pockets that they want to unload, but the deals can vary widely. If you really want to get a bargain you can check out a price comparison of these shops at a website like www.thedutyfreepriceguide.com, or make sure you know how much the same item would cost at home. If you do have wads of cash left after travelling, the best use for it may simply be to convert it back into your own currency.
You get a better currency conversion at home
Many travellers get wads of currency converted before they leave home in the belief that the exchange is better. While this maybe convenient and save some hassle at the other end at the airport or hunting around for a good exchange desk, it might not necessarily get you a better rate. In fact, often the opposite is true with poor rates offered and commission charges to boot. It’s probably best to get some changed before you arrive so you can get from the airport to the hotel and buy a bit of food. From then on you can exchange money as you go and hunt around for the best deal.
These are just some travel myths – feel free to write in with others.
