It is not until you actually travel internationally that you really appreciate the different types of cultures around the world. Generally speaking it is within the realms of most average salary workers now to choose a relatively exotic location if they are willing to carry out some time research into things online.

Even though many of the locations are cheapest in the winter, there are many places in Europe that have mild climates like Spain and Italy for example. If you want to save even more money you can look for villas, apartments or houses owned by private citizens who rent them out for shorter periods so you may be able to have a longer trip without a cost penalty.

Facilities are usually comparable to many American homes so the likes of laundry equipment, cooking and the internet should all be available. The benefits of a fully equipped kitchen mean that you can try some of the local ingredients in the meals you prepare which will also save some money if you prepare your own breakfast everyday.

If you planned to send cards to all your friends then you can do it electronically which won't cost anything and all your laundry can be done without having to go elsewhere, once again, saving time which means you have more time to do things.

Sometimes we become so engrossed in our own culture that we forget that others exist and it is interesting to see how other people run their daily lives even if overall they are not that much different from our own daily needs.

Unfortunately Americans have fallen into the habit of often eating on the move or just rushing and don't make it the family affair that they do in many European countries which it must be said is a more pleasurable experience. When you are staying somewhere new, don't always go to the same old places every tourist visits but try new areas and move into where the locals live and work; then you will see a difference and a chance to see the real people of the country you're staying in.

International travelers have the opportunity to try new, local meals so if you are in France you may want to try French Pistou, Paella in Spain or Kleftiko in Greece for instance. Making the most of where you are staying is an important part of being an international traveler so when you are in cities make use of their transport systems which are generally very efficient and cheap.

With today's many restrictions on baggage, plan for only carry-on luggage that way you will avoid lost luggage and the dreaded walking and waiting time at the carousel. This of course means that to do this efficiently, it is good idea to carry everything you need for the trip in a carry on, which will make things simpler; no lost luggage or waiting around the luggage carousel at the airport.

Careful planning means you can pack everything you need for a month's stay anywhere in a carry-on and it's just as easy to find a foreign equivalent of an American drugstore and pick up any toiletries you may need. Remember that the lighter you travel the more convenient it is and if you become bored of where you are, you will never be far from an internet cafe where you can find a new location.