Travelling without a working time-telling device? How do you know what time it is?

• Church bells

Some countries that are predominantly Christian have church bells that chime every quarter-hour, half hour and/or hour; plus they have a gigantic clock face too. Look up and listen up.

• The call to prayer

In Muslim countries, the call to prayer is done 5 times a day. It starts just before sunrise and continues throughout the day at set intervals. Coordinate your schedule with the call of the muezzin.

• Follow the sun

The sun rises in the east and sets in the west and when it is directly overhead it is noon. Do it the way the ancients did and consult a sundial. If you are scientifically inclined you can construct one yourself. Chances are you could be traveling somewhere that already has one on display.

• Ask a stranger

With a quizzical look on your face, approach a local and point to your wrist, the seemingly universal gesture for time. Not only will you find out the time but you may connect with a local too. Who knows? An impromptu conversation may lead to a dinner invitation.

• So…?

You’re on vacation-what does it matter? The key things are instinctual:  eat when you’re hungry, sleep when you’re tired and go to the bathroom when you have the need.