If you can afford travel insurance buy it. Having had it and needed it I can say that the peace of mind it provides is worth the cost.

If your flight requires you to change planes at a location that interests you inquire about stop overs. They can often be arranged for cheap.

Always take time to learn the culture of where you are visiting. Even if you cannot blend in any you will still receive more respect than a traveler who is oblivious to local social mores.