The first time you travel overseas will be a life-changing experience that you are likely never to forget.
Being in a new country, new language, new food and new sights can be amazing. For a first-time visitor to the world, the decision of which country to visit will make the trip a lot easier and more fun.
For first time international travelers, here are some of the best countries to visit for tourist-friendly infrastructure, thrilling experiences, transport and a wealth of things to see.
1. Thailand- An Easy Introduction to International Travel
Thailand is among the top destinations for tourists travelling overseas for the first time.
Why? This is a little bit of everything.
You can explore the busy streets of Bangkok, have a rest on tropical beaches in Phuket or Krabi, discover temples in Chiang Mai and enjoy some of Southeast Asia\'s most famous food.
Thailand is also well known for its hospitable people, ample tourism facilities and a variety of lodging options.
For beaches, food, culture and nightlife, it is the best.For beaches, food, culture and budget travel, it is best.
Highlights: Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and Chiang Mai.
2. UAE is a city of experiences, modernity, and convenience
If you are looking for a hassle-free introduction to traveling abroad, then Dubai is a great choice.
The city is known for its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, amazing architecture and desert experience.
The Burj Khalifa can be visited in the morning, a traditional souk in the afternoon and then a desert sunset safari.
However, Dubai can also boast some wonderful hotels, restaurants and transport services, making it quite easy to get around as a first time visitor.
Suiting: Luxury, Shopping, Architecture, Family holidays and short trips.
Don\'t miss out: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Old Dubai and desert safari.
3. Singapore, Little, Safe and Easy to Explore
If you\'re looking for an easy first trip abroad, Singapore is a great option.
The city-state is small, modern and highly accessible, allowing you to see a lot without hours of travel back and forth.
Visit Marina Bay, stroll through Gardens by the Bay, explore Chinatown and Little India or spare time for Singapore\'s famous hawker centres.
Singapore is an exciting place for first timers to explore Southeast Asia, and won\'t overpower them.
Best for: Families, Foodies, City breaks and first time visitors.
To be sure, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa and Chinatown.
4. Travel to Malaysia to experience culture, food and tropical adventures
Another amazing place to go for your maiden overseas visit is Malaysia.
It\'s the place where modern cities, tropical islands, rainforests and various cultures meet together.
Begin in Kuala Lumpur with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, then budget-conscious travelers will want to check out beaches in Langkawi or a food explosion in Penang.
Malaysia is definitely a good choice for those who wish to have various types of travel in one trip.
Ideal for: Food, culture, beaches and cheap travel.
Be sure to visit: Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi and the Cameron Highlands.
5. A Relaxed First Escape in Bali, Indonesia
Bali is undeniably a first international holiday dreamer\'s paradise when it comes to beaches, temples and tropical landscapes.
Take time to explore the city of Ubud for a few days, unwind in either Seminyak or Canggu and visit the temples of Uluwatu, having a sunset by sea to cap it all off.
Another alternative is to stay in one of the many guest houses and hotels available in Bali, ranging from budget-friendly to upscale private villas, depending on your budget.
Ideal for: Couples, honeymooners, beaches, wellness and adventure.
Don\'t miss: Ubud, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Tegalalang and Nusa Penida.
6. Japan- A Fascinating First Cultural Adventure
To first-time international travellers, Japan could appear daunting, but to those with the necessary infrastructure it is well worth the trip to explore the country.
Begin with okyo: a reflection of the past and the future coexisting.
After that head down onto the train to Kyoto and explore the temples, gardens and traditional Japanese culture.
Japan is also a dream land for foodies. Learn about sushi, ramen, tempura and Japanese desserts, and much more.
Ideal for: Culture, culinary and technology enthusiasts, shoppers and those who love photography.
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Mt. Fuji are not to be missed!
7. A Classic European Experience in France
To many travelers, spending their first time in Europe is spending their first time in France.
And that’s why Paris remains a popular tourist destination!
Visit the Eiffel Tower, visit the Louvre, stroll along the Seine and have a traditional French café breakfast.
France is much more than Paris, though. If you have plenty of time, you can visit the French Riviera, Provence, the Loire Valley or the country\'s charming smaller towns.
Ideal for: Art, architecture, food, romance and history.
A must visit: Paris, Nice, Provence and the French Riviera.
8. Italy- History and Food: The Perfect Mix
Another great option for the first time traveler to Europe is Italy.
Not many countries can do this as well as Italy.
Exhale through ancient Rome, in awe of the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, floating through the canals of Venice and savoring authentic Italian pizza and pasta along the way.
It is particularly attractive, as each region has a different feel.
Ideal for: History, food, art, architecture and romance.
Don\'t miss: Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan and the Amalfi Coast.
9. Australia- Adventure and Natural Beauty
Australia can be your first overseas adventure if you\'re looking for a longer trip.
The country has exciting cities, stunning beaches, rare wildlife and immense natural beauty.
See Sydney, relax on world famous beaches, visit the Great Barrier Reef or a road trip through the magnificent Australian countryside.
However, Australia being a large country, it is better to concentrate on one or two areas than to attempt to see the whole country in one visit.
Works best: Adventure, Beaches, Wildlife and Road trips.
Sydney, Melbourne, The Great Barrier Reef and Gold Coast are a MUST SEE.
10. Switzerland is a scenic travel destination in Europe
If you\'re looking for a perfect holiday, then Switzerland should be on your list as a place that has mountains, lakes and postcard perfect villages.
Known for its impressive mountain scenery and well-managed railway system.
City breaks are a wonderful way of enjoying the mountain scenery, as Switzerland is a popular place to visit for those who want to see the hills and enjoy the comfort of their city break.
Ideal for: Mountains, scenic train rides, couples and photo lovers.
Visiting Switzerland and its Alps in the CHF is a must see: Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt.
How to Choose Your First International Destination
There is no one "best country for that first time abroad" it all depends on what you\'re looking for.
Want beaches?
Select Thailand, Bali or Malaysia
Looking for a more contemporary city vibe?
Select Singapore or Dubai
Hungry for history?
Select Italy or France
Want nature?
Select either Switzerland or Australia
Looking for culture along with something different?
Choose Japan
Here are some helpful tips for your first international trip
This is the first time you will be taking your vacation abroad and you don\'t need to complicate your life. Just a little or a lot of preparation can make a huge difference.
Please verify your passport and visa requirements
Do check passport expiry date and Visa requirements for destination before booking flights. Requirements may vary by country of origin and could be subject to change.
The first few days of school are crucial.The first few days of school are critical.
It is not necessary to schedule each moment but it makes a fair amount of sense to know where you will be staying, how you will get there to your hotel and what you will do when you arrive if you can to eliminate unnecessary stress.
Get Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can offer you coverage for unexpected incidents, including trip disruptions, lost baggage or some medical emergencies.
Store digital copies of vital records. Maintain electronic copies of key records.
Keep copies of your passport, tickets, hotel and other vital papers in safe keeping so you can retrieve them if they are needed.
Don\'t Overpack
It\'s not the first time you\'re traveling abroad that you should pack an entire suitcase.
Pack according to the weather, your activities and the length of your trip.
- To understand a few local phrases
- To know a few local phrases
- Phrases like \'hello\', \'thank you\', \'please\' and \'excuse me\' can make interactions more pleasant
- Plan for the unexpected.
Not all great travel experiences are planned.
Take time to explore, do something new and find out new places you didn\'t know.
How many days are you planning to spend on your first overseas journey?
If you are travelling overseas for the first time, then 5-10 days is a comfortable time frame to start with.
- For short trips, say in Singapore or Dubai, where there\'s a lot to see in a relatively small space, it works particularly well
- In countries like Italy, Japan or Australia, it will take you longer (or you will have to concentrate on a particular area)
The number of days is not important.
It\'s selecting a travel route that does not leave you feeling fatigued.
Final Thoughts
You don\'t have to go through with your first overseas trip without a hitch. You may step on the wrong train, order something you can\'t understand, get a bit lost or find out that the thing you wanted to see is closed. And that\'s okay, Travel is about having a new experience.
Your first overseas trip can be the doorway to a whole new world, whether you\'re seeing the sunset in Bali, strolling the streets of Rome or sampling street food in Bangkok, or standing under the Tokyo skyline.
Make sure you know where to go, what to bring, be open to new experiences and, above all, enjoy the ride.