Andre Muller is community manager of eezeer.com, a web and mobile social network that features tweets and location-verified reviews related to travel. Its mobile app is a helpful tool that goes with travellers wherever they go.
Cheapflights: What do you always do when you travel – any routine procedures?
Andre Muller: I am quite particular about packing and like most people I have a fear that I’m going to forget something. Apart from that I normally do a little research about the place I’m visiting. I live history so try to find out what historical places I can visit. Apart from that I like to learn (or have on my Smartphone) some phrases and words in the language of the country.
CF: What is your favourite kind of trip?
AM: It has to be romantic trips with my wife. And I love big cities.
CF: Best destination you have ever been to and why?
AM: It’s a cliché I know but I truly love Barcelona. The atmosphere, food and lifestyle really speak to me. And of course it’s a very beautiful city.
CF: What is your favourite mobile travel app?
AM: My favourite mobile travel app is of course eezeer travel reviews. I can meet like-minded travellers and get the most reliable reviews.
CF: How important do you think social media is in planning your trip?
AM: Right now social media is not that important. I still use it in my travels to compare what friends and acquaintances have to say about certain destinations. I also look at airline and hotel reviews to assist me in picking the best places. Having said that I believe that social media will become more and more interwoven in the travel experience and soon we will all use it religiously in planning our trips.
CF: When you fly, is there a tip you can share to make the experience a great one?
AM: I have a few great tips not only for while onboard the plane. When booking tickets always try to consider travelling on weekdays instead of weekends (Thu-Sat). Ticket fares on weekdays are way cheaper than weekend travel. If you are flying solo or if you are not in a rush to reach your destination, consider taking connecting flights over non-stop flights. Usually, flying direct and non-stop costs more than flying via another destination. The exception to this rule is if you have a low-cost carrier operating on your selected route.
While flying though I always try to check-in online so I can pick my seat and get an idea of how full the plane will be. I always try to get an emergency exit-row seat. I try not to drink too much alcohol on long-haul flights; instead I drink plenty of water. And remember to always wear comfortable shoes!
CF: Do you have one sentence that you always learn before you travel to a new destination?
AM: I always try my best to learn “good day/hello”, “thank you”, “please” and “I can’t speak said language”.
CF: If you could sit next to anyone in the world during a long-haul flight, who would you pick and why? And is there anyone else you would avoid?
AM: I’ve never really thought about it. The Dalai Lama is the only person who comes to mind. I could listen and learn from him the entire length of the flight. If I had to avoid someone, it would probably be any politician!
(Image: ccchan19)
