5 LESSONS LEARNED THROUGH TRAVELLING
Business travel can be exhilarating, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From navigating new cities to adapting to different cultures, preparation is key to making the experience seamless and successful.
Here are some essential travel lessons that I usually keep in mind on my trips to ensure I am prepared and confident in my journey.
1. LOST IN TRANSLATION
Travel Lesson:
Before you go to a new country try and learn basic phrases to help you get through a day, like; ”hello”, “goodbye”, “thank you / no thank you”, “one americano, black, please”.
These phrases, coupled with a friendly smile can get you far in foreign territory.
A month or so before your business trip, pick up a pocket sized dictionary with basic language cues. You can also have them saved in the notes app on your phone so that they are easy accessible, this will especially be helpful if you don’t have international data.
How I use this lesson in business:
Learning a few basic phrases will help you to get around more easily and it will help you build rapport in business meetings.
Being greeted in your own language instantly creates a sense of belonging and connection. Going into a meeting prepared can help you make a great first impression right from the start with other cultures, and having a French traveling customer walk through your door, and you saying “Oi! Bonjour!” will really score you some brownie points.
2. GETTING AROUND
Travel Lesson:
Is it better to hop into an Uber? Take the train? Walk? Or book a taxi? Always chat with a local or someone with inside info in the region you’re visiting who can help you navigate your way around as efficiently as possible.
Helpful tip for long car journeys: place essential mint oil on the inside one your wrists and breathe this scent in deeply; it will help with motion sickness!
How I use this lesson in business:
In my recent trip to Morocco for Journal 15 – on shelves June 2025 – I found this travel lesson very helpful. The locals shared a lot of inside info which led me to a lot some hidden gems and helped myself and my team to stay on schedule with my commuting. Ask questions, learn from others, and follow trusty advise.
3. TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Travel Lesson:
When traveling, it’s essential to pack a few health must-haves to ensure you’re ready for any situation. A multivitamin, allergy medication, eye drops, and wet wipes can make all the difference when you’re on the go.
How I use this lesson in business:
Travelling can sometimes be quite stressful and tiring, especially a business trip. I always carry a few medicine cabinet essentials with me to give my body that extra support when things get busy. These small essentials always help me to stay on my best during long days of travel and meetings. Always have a comfort food, playlist or advice on call for when you need that extra kick.
4. CULTURE CLUB
Travel Lesson:
Humility, kindness and respect are the ultimate when travelling to parts unknown. Try and do a bit of research about the customs and social norms before your trip.
How I use this lesson in business:
Understanding a foreign culture always helps me appreciate it even more. Before I travel I always read up on the destination and how one can be respectful towards the region, culture and people (everywhere is different!). This also helps me to establish a good relationship with my business associates abroad. When people see that you are making an effort with them they tend to trust you more. Go the extra mile in understanding others.
5. KEEP IT SIMPLE
Travel Lesson:
Pack light. Make your life easier – and lighter. Try to pack clothing items that can be layered and that can easily transition from from day to night. Shoes, shoes, shoes! If you plan on walking a lot, especially over cobblestone roads – or even sand – make sure you pack the right shoes for this. You can never go wrong with a pair of classic white trainers.
How I use this lesson in business:
During my last business trip I realised the value of packing light. Hustling between business meetings and destinations on public transport made me appreciate my small, light suitcase. Packing the right pair of shoes was my other saving grace – my feet are forever thankful. My white trainers always transitioned so smoothly; business attire during the day and casual wear at night. Dress to impress; others, but more importantly your comfort.
