Travel Bits: May 2018

Self-Driving during Overseas Vacations.......

While I am not a fan of self-driving when traveling overseas, I had done my fair share of driving in different countries while on vacation. These places include France, Germany and Israel. And more recently, in Australia.

On the road while self-driving from New Norcia to Perth, Western Australia, Australia (2018)

Having your own set of wheels while overseas has its conveniences. It allows you to venture a little off-road to see and experience sights and sounds off the so-called beaten track. It allows you the flexibility to change your itinerary as and when situation and mood necessitates. And it also means that you do not have to plan your travel activities around the operating hours of the public transport operators of the cities you are visiting.

Self-driving allowed me to stop and enjoy the natural landscapes whenever I wanted, Negev Desert, Israel (2017)

Stopping my vehicle to watch herders near the city of Beersheba, Negev Desert, Israel (2017)

But self-driving while overseas has its minuses as well. Chief amongst these will be safety. Unless one frequently travels back to the same city and same locations, familiarity with the routes is a main concern.

Relying on GPS is well and good but this won't tell you the conditions of the roads, especially during different weather conditions. It is also important to take note that sometimes, vastly different driving conditions between day and night may mean that you may want to totally forgo any driving during sundown when some roads may not even be lit for miles.

The local driving habits and culture are also major points to note.

Impromptu meal-stop while self-driving, Guildford, Perth, Western Australia, Australia (2018)

So before you decide on a self-drive holiday, in case you haven't driven overseas before, be sure to familiarise yourself with the local driving conditions, speed limits and culture as much as possible. Google, read, speak with friends who had driven in the cities or areas you are visiting. Find out as much as possible so as to prepare yourself mentally for the challenges you may face from the different driving conditions.

And also of utmost importance, insurance. Always make sure you have adequate insurance coverage both for personnel as well as the vehicle. Do not attempt to save on this area and leave anything to fate or chance.

And last but not least, driving licenses and permits. Some countries may require an International Driving Permit. So make sure you have one before you travel.

Had everything prepared and ready to enjoy your self-drive holidays? Enjoy your holidays but always remember, safety first. :-)

Stopping to admire the spring blooms, Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan (2017)

Short pit-stop to visit a local flea market, Ito, Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan (2017)