Going overseas to see your idol perform? Be sure to consider these 6 factors swiftly
3-minute read
International concert tours are back in full swing now that travel restrictions have been lifted. In the past year, Singapore has become a hot destination for many international artists on tour – Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars and, most notably, Taylor Swift.
Being, often, the exclusive stop for big acts in Southeast Asia has done wonders for Singapore’s economy. Take Taylor Swift fans (‘Swifties’) for instance who, eager not to miss this chance to experience her acclaimed Eras Tour, are flocking to Singapore by bus, ferry, or plane – no matter the hassle or cost.
This behaviour is not unique to non-Singaporeans. Local super fans do travel abroad for music events too, whether to follow their idols to different tour locations, or for a unique concert experience. Here are some upcoming music gigs happening in Asia:
- Janet Jackson: Together Again, The Philippines, Quezon City, 13 March 2024
- Bruno Mars, Thailand, Bangkok, 30-31 March 2024
- Saranghaeyo Indonesia, Indonesia, Jakarta, 4 May 2024
- Avenged Sevenfold, Indonesia, Jakarta, 25 May 2024
- Fuji Rock Festival, Japan, Niigata, 26-28 July 2024
- LaLaLa Festival, Indonesia, Jakarta, 24-25 Aguust 2024
Though exhilarating, travelling abroad for a concert can be challenging and risky if decided impulsively. For a smooth, enjoyable concert experience, be sure to carefully consider important factors like cost, availability, and safety beforehand:
1. Calculating your total expenditure
The expensive concert ticket and flights will not be your only big-budget items for this trip. Doing the math before deciding to go overseas for a concert is crucial to avoid unexpected financial burdens. Have you factored in accommodation, transportation and meals? Is the total cost of the trip within your means?
It’s also wise to budget for any additional expenses that may arise during your trip. Remember to carry some cash or have a multi-currency card on you at all times. Always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
2. Guaranteeing your availability
Ensure that you’ll be available during the dates of your trip, especially if it eats into weekdays. Have you secured leave from work? Do you have any school deadlines or exams during that period? Are you free from other life commitments you cannot miss?
The last thing you’d want is to discover scheduling conflicts after making all the bookings. Check your calendar thoroughly to confirm that you have ample time to fly and travel to the concert venue.
3. Buying tickets from reputable sources
Desperate fans who fail to secure concert tickets through official channels tend to turn to reselling platforms like Carousell, Facebook, Telegram or online chat groups. Many are even willing to pay more than the cost price for the ticket. But in February 2024, at least 583 fans had fallen prey to concert ticket scams – amounting to at least S$223,000 in losses – in just two weeks.
Stick to official ticket vendors or trusted resellers to minimise the risk of disappointment or loss. To play it even safer, only pursue physical tickets (i.e. not print-at-home tickets) and try to arrange for an in-person meetup for the payment.
4. Thoroughly researching the venue city
Before landing in the venue city, familiarise yourself with the local area by doing extensive research. What are the transportation options and routes? What are the emergency hotlines? Are there any cultural or safety sensitivities to be aware of?
Preparing ahead of time will ensure your well-being and confidence in navigating the city, mitigating the chances of getting lost and hence delayed.
5. Staying vigilant at all times
Living in Singapore, one of the world’s safest countries, can make us complacent. How often do we “chope” seats with our belongings, fully confident that they’ll still be there when we return?
When overseas in an unfamiliar place, remain alert, particularly in crowded places like concert venues or tourist spots, to minimise the risk of theft. Conceal emergency cash on you in a hidden spot, so that you still have money to get by if your wallet gets stolen.
6. Securing good travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance, especially one that aligns with your specific needs, provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances. Just weeks ago, Taylor Swift fans flying to Sydney for her Eras Tour concert panicked after flights had been cancelled due to bad weather. With no other options, many had to book last-minute flights, almost double the price of their original tickets, to make it to the show.
MSIG TravelEasy® extends its coverage beyond trip cancellations, flight delays, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. MSIG will not only pay you for the unused travel fare due to unfavourable weather; we will also reimburse you the cost of any unused entertainment tickets, should you suddenly be unable to attend due to injury or serious illness. In the event of a travel emergency, MSIG is available to assist via our 24/7 helpline wherever you are, whatever your timezone.
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