Preparation experience before a sea trip
Sea and island tourism often has many routes and depends on weather conditions. Therefore, checking information before the trip helps tourists be more proactive about their itinerary and limit arising issues.
Ms. Pham Thanh Ngan (26 years old, Ninh Binh) said that before each sea and island trip, her family often checks weather forecasts, ship schedules and prepares necessary items.
Before leaving, I usually check the weather forecast a few days in advance, check the train schedule and prepare medicine, sunscreen, hats, glasses and some personal belongings. Preparing in advance is also more reassuring when I arrive," Ms. Ngan shared.
Sharing the habit of preparing early, Mr. Dao Quang Trung (33 years old, Hanoi) believes that bringing items suitable for the conditions on the island makes the trip more convenient, especially in places with limited services.
There are things that are very easy to buy on the mainland, but not necessarily available immediately when you go to the island. Therefore, I often prepare personal medicine, drinking water, spare batteries and waterproof bags for my phone and papers," said Mr. Quang Trung.
According to Mr. Trung, besides personal belongings, tourists should also proactively learn about means of transportation and services at the destination before departure, especially for trips with many stages.
Safety is a priority factor when traveling to the sea and islands
According to Mr. Bui Thanh Tu - Marketing Director of BestPrice Travel Company, besides preparing luggage and itinerary, to prepare for a trip, each family needs to put safety first when going to sea and islands.
Before the trip, each family or group of guests should agree on a person in charge of the itinerary, save the phone number of the accommodation establishment, transportation unit, tour guide and local support forces. When arriving at the island, it is necessary to inquire in advance about the location of the medical facility, the area with strong waves and the train departure time," Mr. Tu noted.
For tidal-dependent attractions such as rocky beaches, sea caves or coastal areas, visitors need to check when the water rises and falls before moving. The itinerary should also have alternative options in case of bad weather or vehicles cannot operate as planned.
When swimming in the sea, tourists should choose a permitted area with rescue workers and comply with signs and warning flags. Do not swim alone, swim too far from the shore or go into the water after using alcohol.
For activities such as diving, SUP paddling or canoeing, tourists should choose an organizing unit that meets the conditions, use appropriate equipment and listen to full instructions before participating. Unexperienced people should not dive or paddle offshore on their own.
If encountering offshore currents, tourists need to stay calm, do not try to swim against the current to the shore, but should swim parallel to the shore to escape the strong current area before finding a way back in," the expert advised.
According to experts, a safe sea and island trip needs to be based on three factors: full preparation, responsible service selection and willingness to adjust plans according to actual conditions. When these three factors are ensured, tourists can truly relax and fully enjoy the journey.
