Helpful Apps for International Travel

Traveling abroad can be scary. You're basically in another environment that could be nothing like the one that you're used to experiencing. And not knowing what to expect can really heighten anyone's fear of the unknown.

But as scary as it can be, I also think it can be exciting. There's just something about exploring different countries and cultures that provides me with new, thoughtful perspectives. I really do feel traveling abroad is a great educational tool. And thankfully technology continues to make it easier. So here are three apps you can keep on your phone to help you ease some of your worries.

1. WhatsApp: This is actually probably my most used app, even when I'm home. I know a lot of my American friends don't care for it but outside of the U.S., WhatsApp is GOLD! Everyone has it, including many businesses. You can make phone calls, video chat and send texts to international numbers for FREE! Even if you don't have wifi, many phone carriers now will automatically switch over to a local carrier that will allow you to use apps without roaming fees.

2. Google Translate: This app is truly a gift in places where there's a language barrier. My driver and I used this to communicate with each other throughout my entire trip to El Salvador and it was great. And if there's also a barrier with the written language, the camera function is amazing. It was my best friend during my recent trip to Japan.

3. Currency: Trying to convert exchange rates can be frustrating! But with this app, I just put in a number and it gives me the conversion for any country that I need. All the guessing work is eliminated! (I know there are a few other converter apps available but this is the one I use and I've never had any issues.)

Now, I have been traveling long before these apps even existed - and clearly I managed fine. However, I do sometimes think about how much more I could have done had these resources been available.

Oh well! Now that these apps do exist, they've helped me a great deal during my adventure. And I hope they can do the same for you. Happy Traveling!