My travels in the 2020s

Precise planning, travel light, smart phone dependence – 31 countries visited

In the 2020s, traveling has become exceedingly straightforward. A significant amount of transactions is done online; the search for information, purchasing airline tickets, reserving accommodations and obtaining e-Visas, which are now available even for the most challenging countries. Credit cards or electronic means replaced cash to conduct most financial transactions. Buying goods, medications or other essentials in the local environment has never been easier.

I keep my backpack as small and light as possible, since I can find almost everything I need in local stores or markets. A laptop has become an indispensable part of my traveling gear; for work and pleasure.

The biggest asset of every visitor in 2020s is probably his smart phone, which holds all important information, photos, maps, reservations for accommodation and transport, applications for free communications with family and friends, and online translator to communicate with locals in any language. Smart phone is also a mean of payment or holder of entry tickets to sport events, museums or concerts. I always use a local SIM card to connect to social media and the world 24/7.

Although the Covid-19 pandemic marked the beginning of this decade and limited travel for a year, I foresee visiting a larger number of countries than in earlier periods. The main reasons are: greater flexibility, extended logistical options which are more accessible and increased financial resources.

The number of countries left on my travel bucket list is decreasing, but this does not imply a reduction in my excitement or that travel has become easier. Travelling requires precise planning, organization and strategy. Many of the destinations I wish to visit are challenging due to visa issues, high costs, safety concerns or conflicts.

I look forward to new travel opportunities and, more than ever, I am grateful for the chance to be on the road, savoring each experience along the way.