Useful and Free must-have travel apps
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There is an app for everything. We know this. You are probably tempted to download everything under the sun that you think will automate everything for you, to make your life easier. I too, like to be prepared before traveling like many other wanderlusters. Below are my useful and free must-have travel apps that I hope you find helpful as well.
Google Maps app – Destinations’ offline map
Everyone knows Google Maps. It’s the best! Although sometimes I think there is a part of my brain I refused to access because it’s easier to just use this app. But I digress. You can save in advance the places you want to visit. You can create a list, pin them on the map, and categorize them however you want, (landmarks/tourist spots, restaurants, cafes). The best way I think is categorizing by region. Let’s say you’ll be on the east side of the map, save all the tourist spots/attractions you want to visit there, as well as the restaurants/cafes, viewpoints, etc in that area so you can make a day out of it. No wifi is needed to access this list and map. This was especially helpful in mapping out the places when we planned our visit to certain awesome places in Bali.
Google translate app offline
We’ve all tried it. We know at least hello, please, and thank you, (and some not-so-savory phrases for special situations → careful though), in the native language of our destination. But let’s aim a bit higher and use this app to construct sentences meant for ice-breaker. That will help you with starting interesting conversations and making local friends! The locals appreciate when we do make an effort to communicate with them in their native tongue. Hello polyglot! Again, no wifi is needed which is always a plus! You can type in advance common phrases you’ll use and then save them by clicking on the star. Using handwriting, conversation, and voice, do require wifi.
This is a great app for communication locally or internationally. This website has awesome detailed information about this app. https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/what-is-whatsapp/ Definitely helpful! From my experience, this has been very useful in communicating with the resort staff, drivers, tour guides, etc. My fave feature is you can see when the recipient has read your text.
You can gauge the responsiveness, which is taken into account when reviewing your experience. Internationally, we found that this has been the preferred communication app.
XE currency converter app
Another nice app that works offline, can be downloaded on both android and iPhones and shows live market rates. I like to know how much I’m spending on our vacation. I’d like to have a good balance of practicality and indulgence and careful budgeting can do that. I know the US dollar is typically higher than most currencies but I’m still grinding in that 9-5, and money doesn’t grow on trees! Gotta watch those expenses so we can travel more.
Uber or Grab app
Uber operates in 65 countries and over 10,000 cities. It’s popular in the US and I’ve used it a lot. Good experiences so far. I’ve only used the Grab App in Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia. It’s also used in Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Grab app has many other features, but I’ve only used it for transport. I like knowing the exact fare before booking the ride.
Have you downloaded any or all of these? Please feel free to save, share, and leave a comment and share other helpful apps I missed. I’m sure I did miss some as there is an app for almost everything.
Hope this information can be helpful for your next trip, wherever in the world you want to explore!
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