Travel tips from male travellers

- Make sure you keep in touch with family and friends back home; an email here and a phone call there goes a long way... you know how mum worries! Stefan Watts

- You should never rule out the idea of travelling solo. It's a great experience for meeting new people, and making yourself more confident and independent. - Don't ever be afraid to admit defeat, and don't ever be afraid to ask for help. Say if you plan to go away for a year, and only manage 3 months - at least you had the bottle to go there and give it a good try anyway! Kris Robertson

- In English speaking countries outside of Britain, speak in the most English accent you can muster. Ladies love it. - Sample local beers so that you can pass yourself off as a connoisseur when you return home. Steve Bartram

- Guys, in Zambia men may try to hold your hand when talking. Deal with it, they’re displaying respect and aren’t interested in your ass. Sam Bloomfield

Click here >> if you've got any GapLad specific tips and post them on the messageboard. We're always on the look-out for travel tip gems - it's great to learn from the wisdom of others.