Tips For Traveling Abroad....

A trip overseas can be an exhilarating experience, particularly if it is your first time.  It can also become quite the nightmare if you do not make adequate preparation to begin with.  So take time in the weeks leading up to your departure to make adequate preparation for your journey.

My first airline trip was memorable….an eight hour jaunt from New York City to London…..overnight….and I was afraid of flying.  I held somebody’s hand most of the way across the Atlantic, and I’m not sure who it was.  You should purchase the best, most roomy seat you can afford.  Go first class if at all possible.  Bring along a book, travel pillow, and eye covers.  Most overseas flights are several hours in duration…make it as comfortable as possible.

You should file for a travel visa as soon as possible.  You can do so at the consulate of each country you plan to visit.  Make a copy of the application for your records.  This process may take several weeks, so get started early on.

Likewise, renew your passport if it is not current.

Know the requirements of the country you will be traveling to.  Some countries will allow you to stay up to 90 days, while others require that you limit your stay to a week or so.  Make sure you have all of your travel documentation in order well in advance of your departure and that it remains on your person for easy access.  It will make for a much less nerve wracking experience.

I hate shots.  There’s just something about sticking a long nail, I mean needle, in your arm that rubs me the wrong way.  Unfortunately, different countries require various types of immunization requirements.  Again, do your homework and have this done several weeks in advance of your trip.

Have access to additional funds.  ATM cards may be the weapon of choice in the States, but anywhere, else, make sure you have a credit card with you.  This will prove invaluable in the event of an emergency.  Don’t feel the need to take everything with you….remove any unnecessary cards such as Social Security, library card, or any item that could make you susceptible to identity theft.

Other countries do not operate on the same wavelength as the US.  Literally.  Have the proper electrical adaptors so that little items like hair dryers will still work in London or Paris.

Buy travelers insurance.  Sure, like any insurance, you hope you won’t need to use it, but it is a good idea if somebody falls seriously ill or is injured while out of the country.

Know the cultural expectations.  Actions and words in the States may carry completely different connotations in other countries.   For example, in Egypt, a thumbs up hand gesture is considered obscene.  In France, asking any question of a personal nature is considered rude, while in India, winking is considered to be a sexual gesture.

Learn the language.  If you are going to Spain, learn at least enough Spanish to get by.  Going to another country and expecting them to speak perfect English (or English at all), is beyond arrogant.

While you are there, exercise some common sense so you don’t come off looking like the ugly American.  

Get to know the concierge in your hotel, as he can be of great assistance in suggesting attractions and arranging transportation.

When it comes to language, at least learn the words for “help” “police”, “food”, and “bathroom”.  Of all the words that might come in handy, these are the front runners.

When taking photos, always ask permission before including shots of any people or government places.  Some countries frown on this and you could end up losing that expensive camera.

Always behave respectfully.  The casual attitude of most Americans may be construed as rude or disrespectful to the locals.  Do not draw undue attention to yourself.  This is also a draw for pickpockets and robbers.  I know it’s difficult, but try not to come off like a tourist.

Always act within the limits of the local law.  Watch “Locked Up Abroad” to get an idea of what happens to you when you don’t.

With proper planning before the trip and common sense exercised throughout the journey, there is no reason that you shouldn’t be able to relax and have the time of your life.

See you when you get home!