If there’s one person whose advice you’d want to heed when it comes to traveling, it’s historian and TV presenter Bettany Hughes. With over two decades of experience exploring ancient sites and cultures, she’s a treasure trove of knowledge and practical travel hacks. Here are eight invaluable insights she’s gathered from her globetrotting adventures.
1. Never Apologize for Double-Packing
When it comes to packing, Hughes swears by the double-pack method. Despite the potential excess baggage fees, she always travels with two suitcases, each containing identical or nearly identical items. This strategy provides a safety net in case one suitcase gets lost in transit—a lesson she learned the hard way during a trip to Trieste. Losing her luggage taught her the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.
2. Keep Creepy-Crawlies at Bay
For those worried about encountering snakes or other unwelcome critters, Hughes recommends carrying a slice of lemon. While its effectiveness may be debated, she swears by this trick, along with wearing Clarks desert boots for added protection.
3. Unlock Local Gems with Insider Tips
For an authentic experience in cities like Istanbul and Athens, Hughes advises taking to the waterways and exploring lesser-known streets. In Istanbul, she recommends a ferry ride along the Bosporus, while in Athens, a stroll down Adrianou Street reveals hidden historical treasures.
4. Respect Local Customs When Taking Photos
As a guest in another country, Hughes stresses the importance of obtaining permission before taking photographs. Whether it’s a historic site or a bustling market, showing respect for the locals and seeking their approval can make all the difference, as she learned during a filming expedition on the Jordanian-Lebanese border.
This one is worth treating as more than courtesy. Photography near military installations, border zones and government buildings is restricted in a great many countries, and travellers have been detained for pictures they assumed were innocuous — sometimes for hours, occasionally for much longer. Several countries also have laws governing photographs of people in public without consent. Asking first protects the person in the frame; knowing where you are standing protects you.
5. Explore Hidden Archaeological Gems
Instead of joining the crowds at popular sites like Pompeii, Hughes suggests seeking out lesser-known archaeological treasures. One such gem is Zeugma, an ancient city on the Turkish-Syrian border renowned for its remarkably preserved mosaics and rich history.
6. Trust Your Instincts for Safety
Hughes relies on a unique method to assess the safety of a new destination: the “stray pet check.” By observing the behavior of local animals, particularly dogs and cats, she gains insight into the community’s treatment of animals—a factor that can reflect the overall atmosphere of the area.
7. Collect Meaningful Souvenirs
Rather than generic trinkets, Hughes opts for two meaningful souvenirs from every destination: a scarf and a pot of honey. Scarves not only serve practical purposes but also carry the essence of each location, while honey, known for its longevity, forms a unique collection in her kitchen, each jar a reminder of her travels.
8. Discover Serenity on Unspoiled Islands
For a truly serene getaway, Hughes recommends exploring the Greek islands of Icaria and Naxos. Icaria, steeped in myth and natural beauty, offers a tranquil retreat away from the tourist crowds, while Naxos boasts fascinating historical sites, including abandoned marble quarries with half-finished sculptures etched into the mountainside.
By following these expert tips from Bettany Hughes, you can elevate your travel experience and embark on unforgettable journeys filled with history, culture, and adventure. So pack your bags, set out on your own odyssey, and let the wisdom of a seasoned explorer be your guide.
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