Mine is: try to avoid checking bags if possible. It makes air travel so much quicker & smoother.
Always ask if they can give you a free upgrade. I’ve been given one a couple of times because I’ve always asked politely, and explained that I cramp easily in narrow seats. Sometimes I’ll get a “I’ll see what I can do” and if the plane is not completely booked, I might be given a seat with extra leg space, economy plus, or even business class.
I used to fly between Japan and America constantly, and I’ve been given a business upgrade twice simply by asking. I seem to have the most success with Delta and ANA.
It’s amazing how far being a decent & polite human will get you.
Roll your clothes. Saves space and is less wrinkly if compacted.
And it’s useful no matter how you travel: air, train, driving, biking, hiking, it’s always helpful.
Download the offline version maps of wherever you plan to stay/travel to. You can do this via google maps or OSM maps, at the very least it’s helped me keep peace of mind when out and about.
If you want to have authentic food with reasonable price, walk a few blocks away from the touristy area.
I came here to say something similar: get a little off the beaten path to find out what its really like in the area. The more foreign the area is to you, the more interesting it will be. Obviously, feel out the area or find out from a local to be sure you’re safe to venture off.
