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Michael Gebicki

Michael Gebicki

The Tripologist

Michael Gebicki is a Sydney-based travel writer, best known for his Tripologist column published for more than 15 years in Traveller. With four decades of experience, his specialty is practical advice, destination insights and problem-solving for travellers. He also designs and leads slow, immersive tours to some of his favourite places. Connect via Instagram @michael_gebickiConnect via email.

Research could save you a world of pain.

Eight hotel red flags that should make you reconsider booking

If you get to your hotel and discover there’s a building site next door, it’s too late. These signs at booking should send you running in the other direction.

  • Michael Gebicki
Here’s the tip: failing to do so or leaving a miserly tip is considered rude and disrespectful.

The reason Australians are considered ‘the world’s worst travellers’

I asked a taxi driver in Cairo who were the worst travellers. He didn’t hesitate with his answer.

  • Michael Gebicki
Autumn colour in Kyoto.

Your questions: What are some must-sees in Japan over three weeks?

“Other than the flights, our trip is a blank canvas. Can you suggest some essential sights for a couple in their 60s?”

  • Michael Gebicki
Countries that once allowed Australian passport holders to enter without a visa now require them to apply.

Is the golden age of visa-free (and fee-free) travel over for Aussies?

Many countries that once allowed Australian passport holders to enter without a visa now require them to apply – and pay – for a visa waiver.

  • Michael Gebicki
Island of Moorea is a great base that won’t send you broke.

Your questions: How to do a bucket-list Tahiti trip?

“I’m planning a trip to Tahiti as a lifelong ambition to see Bora Bora. What is the best way to travel there, and where should I stay?”

  • Michael Gebicki
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Giving money to child beggars in the developing world perpetuates a cruel system.

A wretched-looking child begged me for money. Here’s why I refused

Giving her money will not make one bit of difference to what she eats, where she sleeps or what she wears.

  • Michael Gebicki
There are no specific rules about how many toilets an airline needs to provide on board.

The 10 rules of plane toilet etiquette

Earlier this month, Qantas passengers on a nine-hour flight to Hong Kong were warned that three of the five toilets wouldn’t be working.

  • Michael Gebicki
An Indian street seller serves up chai.

The false claims people make about travelling in India

“Beggars are everywhere”. I see more beggars on a stroll through Sydney’s CBD than I do travelling in India.

  • Michael Gebicki
Australians are almost alone in calling it a doona, in the rest of the world it’s a duvet, but there are exceptions.

Too hot or too cold: The worst thing about hotel beds

There are some places where a doona makes sense, but they pop up everywhere. I’ve had them in tropical island resorts. I just don’t get it.

  • Michael Gebicki
Even if you’re careful with what you eat in a foreign country, you could still fall victim to a viral stomach bug.

Despite my long experience and best efforts, ‘Delhi belly’ got me

I’m a road-tested traveller, I tend to stay in decent hotels and I’m careful with what I put in my mouth. It didn’t save me this time.

  • Michael Gebicki

Original URL: https://www.watoday.com.au/traveller/by/michael-gebicki-hvf4s