They say that the best things do not come easy.  Here in Singapore, we are used to short distances and efficient roads but this is often not the case when we are travelling overseas, especially in rural areas. 

 

Our Sikkim itineraries involves road trips between destinations. Here’s some suggestions to surviving or even enjoying the long car journeys.

Take a nap!

Nothing beats taking a nap on a long car journey and waking up fresh at the destination.  If you are those fortunate souls who can nap anywhere and anytime, then this option is definitely suitable once you viewed enough of the sceneries.  Bring a towel that can be fold into pillow support. If you are a single traveller, take care to secure your valuables (including phones).

Comfortable clothing

This applies to travelling on cars, ships or planes! Wear loose comfy clothing that does not constrict you and allows you easy movement.  Shoes that are easy to slip on/off are strongly advised as well.  Once the car starts moving, take off your shoes and let your feet breathe!

Talk to the driver / guide

Whilst on the way to the destination, I always speak to the driver/guide to establish rapport.  Especially if it is a small vehicle instead of a big bus, just like our Sikkim tours.  Most service providers are used to tourists and questions from customers so pepper them with anything you want/need to know.

 

Ask about the weather, travelling time, rest/toilet stops and importantly, good spots/scenic spots to take photos.

 

You will be happy to know that for our Sikkim itineraries, we only use large vehicles such as Toyota Innova for car journeys to ensure comfort and safety.

Toilet / Restroom breaks

Never wait till you are bursting to go before informing the driver.  Plan the trip with the driver to include rest and toilet breaks along the journey.  The driver will know long stretches where restrooms are not available, and he/she will advise accordingly.  Unless it is unfortunate situation of upset stomachs which are hard to control, always try to manage toilet breaks when travelling.

 

Use the toilet before starting every trip and try to make yourself “go” at every stop breaks.

 

Pack wet-wipes and tissue with you for long journeys. Not all rest stops have toilet paper and you might need to wipe down the toilets.

 

* if you need to do it in the wild due to lack of facilities or emergencies, do look for secluded spots and get someone to accompany you (especially for ladies!)

Take photos

Interesting photo opportunities can arise along the car journey. Ask the driver to stop if you come across interesting spots!  Also ask the driver for suggestions of unique photo-taking opportunities.

 

For example, there is a spot along the journey from Siliguri to Gangtok where you can hear and see the majestic Teesta River. Take the chance to rest and view the River. Also a good spot for photos!

Listening to music

Music is a great way to pass the time when travelling.  Unlike books or movies which will distract us from the sceneries, music allows us to enjoy the views.

 

There are two ways to enjoy the music – with everyone or individually. Depending on the crowd you are with.  When the entire vehicle is filled with people that I know and am close to, we will share the music so that we can also talk to each other when we see something interesting.

 

If the crowd inside the car are work colleagues or other travelling companions, I will wait for a convenient time into the travel before slipping on my headphones and listening to my favourite music/podcasts/audiobooks. 

 

I can still remember going through countryside with my favourite singers belting out classics through my headphones.  Great music makes the journeys truly magical.

Water / Snacks

If you are the sort who needs to snack and drink during long journeys, do hydrate yourself with water instead of sweet drinks that might cause you to be even more thirsty.  Same goes for snacks –pack snacks that will not cause thirst.

 

Chocolates, potato chips are known to induce thirst.  Fruits and bread are good snacks to consider.

Sit up straight!

Sitting up straight is important as we tend to slouch, especially during long journeys.  When we sit up straight, our bones, ligaments, muscles and joints are properly aligned and we do not add additional strain on them.  Slouching during long journeys can cause backaches and in serious cases, sprains on our backs.

 

 

 

Regardless of any tips, do remember that safety comes first in all situations. 

Talk to us if you are looking to visit Sikkim! Email us at [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

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