As technology advances, we tend to rely more on our smartphones for information and easy access. At the touch of a button, we are able to book airplane tickets, hotels, learn new languages and even search up tourists spots in foreign countries.
There are several apps that we would like to recommend, be it during planning for a vacation or when you have already stepped on foreign land and here they are:
Credit: Google Trips
Who says that an unplanned trip can be terrible? If you are on a solo trip and just want to venture out without any prior planning, this app is a must-have. It will automatically map out a half or full day trip for you with the point of interest to see!
It will also show you nearby attractions and things to enjoy. Apart from that, Google Trip organizes your travel details very neatly so that you never have to go digging your email to look for it!
No Wifi? No problem because Google Trip is made available offline too!
Website
Download: Android | iOS
Credit: Muslim Pro
Muslim Pro is an app that every Muslim person needs to have! From accurate daily prayer timings to verses of the Holy Quran, as well as Qibla indicator - this app has everything you need whenever and wherever you are. This is a plus point if you are unsure of the prayer time due to the difference in time zones.
On top of all of these functions, it also helps you to find nearby Mosques and Halal food places to dine at. Definitely helpful when you are traveling to a foreign country!
Website
Download: Android | iOS
Credit: Pixabay
I am sure most of you are familiar with this app, but for those who aren't, Airbnb is an app for you to book accommodation -mainly apartments or shared rooms. It differs from your typical stay in a hotel as Airbnb are hosted by locals.
What I like about Airbnb is that you can stay like the locals and shop like the locals. At the same time, some apartment offers amenities like your own kitchenette and laundromat, suitable for those who will be traveling longer.
From time to time, a nightly rate of an apartment in Airbnb can be more affordable than a normal hotel. So there's no harm in checking this app out!
Website
Download: Android | iOS
Credit: PetaPixel
You don't have to learn a specific language fully to travel to a country. Google Translate comes in handy when you need to ask for direction from locals or source out ingredients for dishes!
The best feature of Google Translate is the camera translation. All you need to do is hover your camera over a text and it will translate it for you instantly!
Website
Download: Android | iOS
Credit: Citymapper
Citymapper is an app for you to commute by public transport. What I like about this app is how detailed the description of the journey is from one point to another. It features the time taken by selected ways of travel and also the fares of the trip.
Currently, not all cities are available on this app yet but if the cities that you are traveling to is available, why not give this app a try?
Website
Download: Android | iOS
Credit: Klook
We all want to save as much as we can when we travel, especially when it comes to tour and attraction tickets. Check out some of the best offers by Klook. From SIM cards and data SIMs to tours and attraction tickets, discounted or package prices can be found on this site.
Buying tickets from Klook also saves your time from queuing for attraction tickets. Occasionally, Klook throws in promo codes for you to use when booking. Do read the terms and conditions of each attraction as it varies.
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Download: Android | iOS
Credit: TravelSmart
TravelSmart is a useful app as it contains emergency hotlines worldwide. It will also keep you updated with information on the country that you are visiting as you might not be updated with the local news. Apart from that, a weather forecast may be essential as it might affect your activity.
You may also find information on danger spot, allowing you to avoid the area. There is also a built-in currency converter and tipping calculator, in case you want to tip the locals.
The free version of this app is adequate to fulfill the basic needs of a solo traveler.
Website
Download: Android | iOS
Credit: WeSwap
If charges and fees of a credit card scare you when you utilized it overseas, WeSwap helps to overcome it. All you need to do is sign up via the app and you will be sent a multi-currency load card. You can load in any amount into this card and use it in shops around the world where Mastercard is accepted. You may also withdraw money from selected ATMs if needed.
Alternatively, if you reside in Singapore, you may try YouTrip, an app with a similar concept as WeSwap. The only difference is that it is based in Singapore.
Website
Download: Android | iOS
If you have tried out all these apps, which one is your favorite? For me, my personal favourite is the Muslim Pro app but most of these apps have become my travel companion every time I travel! Go give them a try and I'm sure they will make your trip even smoother and worthwhile - thank me later!
