What to bring for trips in Tropical Climates?

Most parts of Southeast Asia are under tropical climate regions and a visit to there may be a disaster if one do not prepare well. Here are some items to keep a traveller checked when visiting Southeast Asia:

1. Mosquito repellent/Bug repellent:

Tropical climate regions are the best breeding ground for bugs and mosquitoes. Mosquito or bug repellents is a must to prepare before heading to tropical regions such as Southeast Asia

2. Foldable Umbrella:
 

Simply a shield for rain or shine. Make sure it is foldable which is more convenient to fit in backpacks.

3. Light-material backpacks:

A useful item to keep your stuff on the go. Canvas backpacks or other light-weighted material backpacks will not only be waterproof, but also will not be a hassle to bring during trips.

4. Slippers/Sandals:
 

This item will be of good use when going to the beach or when you simply just don't want to step on the carpet with your bare feet at the hotel.

5. Straw Hats:
 

A good alternative to bringing an umbrella. Plus, straw hats are light too.

6. Sunscreen:

The sunlight can be quite strong even during mornings in tropical climates. Applying sunscreen before heading out will minimize the damage done to your skin.

7. Sunglasses:

Not only to keep your coolness, but also to protect your eyes from the sunlight from time to time.

8. Small first-aid kit: 

An open wound or simply just a scratch may get worst or even attract unwanted diseases in tropical climates. First-aid kits which contain antiseptics, cotton and bandages will go a long way preventing you from being infected by tropical diseases.

9. A small packet of salt:

Especially useful for jungle travellers. Leeches and bugs of commonly found in the jungles of tropical climate regions. Salt can easily remove leeches from skin without doing any damage. 

Dealing with Culture Shock? How ?

Do more Research 

Learn as much as you can about the new location before you go. This refers to the positive and negative sides of being in the region or country. From which sides people drive on to local cuisine and culture, sometimes even local religion, it is always good to understand more before stepping into a country. If possible, learn a few phrases of local greetings or daily conversations.

Willing to Learn

Be open-minded and willing to learning. Ask questions. If you are going to a place which has a different language or slang, consider taking a few courses in that language. One of the best way to combat cultural shock is actually to blend in the local scene. Mastering a few local “trick of the trades” will be helpful all the time.

Build new positive friendships

Even if you’ve done really good research, having someone who can help you in avoid culture shock and even coping up with the local pace. Surviving another culture is favourably easier when you have a person to guide you through the new little everyday experiences when you are travelling abroad.

Have an Adventurous Spirit

Eleanor Roosevelt once said “do something that takes courage every day,” . This is especially important for travelers when it comes to Survival 101 in a different culture. The only way to survive out of the monotonous comfort zone is to actually treat every day as an adventure ..

Stay in Touch with Family and Friends

Perhaps one of the most important element of all. This can give you some comfort while away, and it will help you to minimize reverse culture shock when you get back home. Spending some time conversing with family and friends back home will ease the anxiety of adapting to a new culture.