The Jot Down: Keeping a Travel Journal

A good journal is a place where memories live. It adds meaning to every journey, and it gives the writer a whole new perspective about their destination.

If you know me personally, you’ll probably think that my memory is a mess. But with my love for wandering and my chosen profession, I need to jot every detail of my trip down to make sure I write the best piece of travel advice I could give.

Still not sure on how to start with your travel journal? Here are a few tips that will help you get started.

 Image source: shutterstock.com

Write down your itinerary

Keep track of your trip by writing down your itinerary before you start with your daily on-trip entry. Your itinerary may include the mode of transportation you used to get to your location for the day, expenses, and notable firsts while on your journey.

Go deep with the details

Your entries don’t have to be grand and artsy all the time but don’t be afraid to describe what you experienced. It can be in the form of words, a picture, or a sketch.

 Image source: theletsgoladies.com

Take time to reflect

What did you learn while on a trip? Traveling exposes us to different cultures and beliefs, and there’s surely a takeaway from every destination you set foot on. Take time to reflect, and express your soul through your entries.

Traveling is all about learning about one’s self while experiencing different places. Get more travel tips when you follow me, Louis Habash, on Twitter.

Free Things to do in Singapore

For three consecutive years, The Economist Intelligence Unit has named Singapore the world’s most expensive city. Bad news for budget travelers? Not really. There are numerous activities in the Lion City that do not come with a price tag. Here are some free things you can do in Singapore:

 Image source: straitstimes.com

Enjoy outdoor activities Enjoy hiking or cycling at the Southern Ridges Trail and the MacRitchie Forest Trails. Or simply follow the bike lanes around the city and visit pocket parks at every estate. The Singapore Botanic Garden is also a great place for some outdoor fun. If you have more time, you can also make the trip to Pulau Ubin, a quick getaway from the busy city of Singapore.

Image source: thousandwonders.net

Walk, walk, walk Popular tourist attractions and iconic Singapore landmarks are right by the Singapore River. Marvel at the modern architecture of the Marina Bay Sands and enjoy the outdoors at the Supertree Grove. If you’re lucky, you can catch a free performance at the Esplanade. Don’t miss the Merlion and the neoclassical architectural landmark, Fullerton Hotel. If you’re up for the long walk, you can also stroll further along the Singapore riverside to Robertson Quay, Boat Quay, and Clarke Quay.

Image source: finetravel.com

Soak up some history and heritage Walk around Chinatown and Little India to view intricately designed temples. Sample authentic Chinese and Indian cuisines at hawker centers. I never leave Chinatown without having my beef noodle fix. For shopping, go over Mustafa Center where you can buy anything and everything from branded perfumes to electronics.

Hello, I’m Louis Habash. I’m a freelance travel writer, nature lover, and photographer. Follow my travel adventures on Twitter.