Category Archives: Travel Preparation

Airport Parking Made Easy!

Airport parking Airport Parking Made Easy!

The worst case scenario: It’s raining out, traffic is a nightmare, you hit every red light on the way to the airport and your flight leaves in two hours. You’re frantically driving around the parking garage at the airport, watching the clock as the minutes tick by. Oh! There! A black sedan is backing out of a parking spot half way down the next row – perfect! You accelerate and head towards the spot. Oh, the blue minivan beat you to it. You resign yourself to circling the area one more time while praying that the line through security isn’t long today.

Not every day is as bad as the worst case scenario, but if you’re a regular traveler, then you know that one of the most dreaded parts of traveling is finding airport parking. There just never seems to be enough parking for the sheer number of travelers that come in and out of international airports on a daily basis. Most seasoned travelers know that the easiest way to park their car is at an off-site location, but then they have to worry about getting to and from the airport, security where they left their car and the outrageous rates that many feel they can charge.

When you choose to reserve your airport parking spot with Cheap Airport Parking, you don’t have to worry about any of that!

What They Offer:

  • Guaranteed parking! When you reserve your parking space, it is yours for the days you need it. You won’t have to worry about finding a spot, it’s waiting for you.
  • Security!  All of their parking centers offer 24 hour security, video surveillance and well lighted areas for the traveler’s peace of mind. Some, like the Hilton @LAX, offer indoor parking for even more peace of mind. While they can’t take responsibility for your vehicle, you can be assured that all precautions are taken at each site location.
  • Shuttle service! Their free shuttle service ensures that you get to the airport and back to your car in a timely manner, 24 hours a day. They also make sure that you have easy to follow directions on where to drop your car off and where to meet the shuttle service.
  • Cheapest rates! Their rates are highly discounted from the rates that are offered to drive in travelers. Because companies want to fill their lots, the best rates go to those who book their spaces in advance.
  • Flexibility! If for any reason your travel plans change, just let them know. Changing the dates on your reservation is quick and easy.
  • Reputable companies! With big brand names like Hilton and the Marriot, as well as numerous small businesses whose goal is to ensure customer satisfaction, you can rest assured knowing that you are getting only the best airport parking available.

Before making your reservation, make sure to read reviews from past customers. They, like you, are seasoned travelers and many leave tips and hints to ensure that your experience is the best that it can be.

Taking Off: Five Tips for a Happy, Healthy Extended Vacation

Flight Taking Off: Five Tips for a Happy, Healthy Extended Vacation

Flight. CC Image by Today is a good day (Flickr).

By JEFFREY FERRARO

There’s an inherent excitement in cutting ties with home and embarking on a long journey. College students seeking to experience international travel, vacationing couples celebrating an empty nest with a far-flung adventure, and retirees on a sabbatical to somewhere new all find certain exhilaration in long-term travel.

That anticipatory thrill, however, may be countered with concern about the challenges that stem from weeks or months away from home. Fortunately, it isn’t difficult to make the most of your sojourn despite the trials that you will surely encounter.

Following are five tips for getting the most of your next extended vacation while taking care of your mind, body and soul.

Map Out Your Trip
The one constant on any trip is change. New people and new places are sure to overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler, but a loose schedule can minimize undue stress and provide a guide as you embark on your adventure.

  • Plan Ahead: During the weeks leading up to your trip, develop ad outline of places you want to visit. Don’t be too specific, so that you can preserve some spontaneity, but it is good to plan an idea of where you are going and when.
  • Keep A Schedule: On the trip, evaluate your plan each evening and determine the details of the following day. This will ensure that you make the most of your time wherever you are, and it will prevent you from spinning your wheels or sacrificing quality experiences while bogged down in low-value tourist areas.
  • Take It Slow: Plan to keep a slow to moderate pace while traveling. This isn’t a sprint; it is a marathon. If you try to do too much, you’ll end up experiencing less. Don’t set a pace that you will never be able to sustain.
  • Be Flexible: Make an effort to adhere to your schedule, but don’t be disappointed if you wander off course. Some of the most exciting adventures can’t be anticipated, so be prepared to change your path if a new opportunity arises.

Travel Light
Not only should you limit the number of garments that you take on your trip, but pay attention to the actual weight. Stay away from bulky pieces and focus on lightweight clothing that’s suitable for your destination(s). Bottoms take up more space than tops, so pack two tops to every one bottom, and plan to do laundry on the road once a week.

Make Your Own Meals
The most convenient choices for lunch and dinner while traveling are often the unhealthiest and most expensive, particularly if you eat out daily for a long period of time. Take the following steps to maximize healthy intake and minimize unnecessary costs:

  1. Make sure to select accommodations that have a kitchen so that you are able to cook meals on your own.
  2. Only purchase the amount of food that you will consume while in one location to cut down on waste and prevent the need to carry food with you from place to place.
  3. Purchase large bottles of water. This will allow you to fill up smaller bottles to take with you on your day-trips, and it will ensure that you have quality water to drink.
  4. Limit your alcohol intake. It is easy to turn your vacation into one long party, but this will not only burn a hole in your wallet, it will leave you worn down. An occasional night out on the town is certainly fine, but don’t make it a habit.

Maintain an Exercise Regimen
Maintaining an exercise regimen while traveling has health benefits, but it also supports a daily schedule that will help you maintain the normalcy that you are accustomed to back at home. Exercise will also help clear your head and release any stress from travel or keeping close quarters with travel-mates. You may even discover some unexpected treasures on a jogging route.

Keep a Travel Journal
Depending on how long you will be on the road, your thoughts and memories will surely begin to blur. A travel journal allows you the opportunity to record your experiences, observations, and ideas as you make your way from destination to destination. Consider including your budget in this journal so that you can track your expenditures and keep your fingers on the pulse of your bank account.

A journal is particularly handy when your trip is wearing you down and you are longing for the comforts of home. Read a few pages and refocus on why you are out there. Past experiences provide perfect fodder for self-motivation, and your journal could be the key to refueling you on the next leg of your journey.

When you embark on your long-term vacation, the excitement will surely surround the places that you will go and the sights that you will see. But to get the most out of your adventure, you must plan ahead, pack light, and take care of yourself to ensure that your days, weeks, or months on the road are as epic as you have always dreamed.

Jeffrey Ferraro is a travel enthusiast and expert. He is the Director of Marketing of www.diamondtours.com, the leading provider of charter group bus tours in the US and Canada, which include tours of major cities, bus trips to shows and casinos. Jeffrey loves uncovering lesser known travel destinations and sharing them with his customers.

11 Things to Do Before Going on Holiday

Leave a reply

Electricity 11 Things to Do Before Going on HolidayBy ALAN GREGORY

Going on holiday? I bet you have a list as long as your arm, but if you don’t know where to start with your to-do list before leaving for warmer climates, here’s a great guide to getting things done.

1. Make sure your pets have a place to stay

I remember last year not even thinking about the cats and literally three days before our holiday, we remembered that we had to get them booked in at the cattery. In the end, the cattery was full but we stumbled upon a better idea where a local pet minder would come to our house and feed the cats twice a day.

2. Write a list of things to do and things to take

Having a list of all the things you need to do and remember (like this one) will help you keep a level head at a very demanding time. Being able to cross things off the list will make you feel in control and organised which makes relaxing on your hols even more enjoyable.

3. Turn off and unplug all domestic appliances

There’s nothing worse than travelling 3500 miles away from home and worrying whether you switched off the telly. Go around and switch everything off and it’ll give you real peace of mind. Not only that, but you’ll also save money on the electric bills too!

 4. Empty the fridge freezer of unpreserved foods that won’t keep

If your fridge freezer has a vacation mode like my Samsung American Fridge Freezer then you’ll be able to keep the freezer running and turn the fridge off separately so that food isn’t going off whilst you’re away on your jollies. If you haven’t got the vacation mode, rid your fridge of the stuff that’ll go off and bin it so that you aren’t coming home to rotten smells.

Key 11 Things to Do Before Going on Holiday5. Leave a key with a trusted neighbour

We like to give our key to a trusted neighbour who can check up on our home whilst we’re away on vacation. Our neighbour closes the curtains at night and opens them in the morning to give the impression of people living there.

 6. Take note of all emergency numbers and contacts

In case of emergency and being able to manage when things don’t go to plan, make sure that you have all the best information at hand. It will save a lot of time and possibly a life.

7. Leave your holiday information with a family member

Make sure that someone back home knows where you’re going, flying from and to, as well as dates and times for your return. This helps if anything should happen whilst you’re away and if they need to contact you.

8. Sort out your travel to and from the airport early

The last thing you want on the morning of your holiday is to find that there are no taxis available. It can end up ruining your holiday or even costing you more than you planned for. Always double check with the taxi firm that everything is booked and still okay for the day of your vacation.

9. Buy your currency and check for the best deals

It’s always best to change some currency at home as the rates are usually better. I never change all my money as you either might not need all the money you’re taking or you may find the rates get better after a week or so. Have your domestic currency and your destination’s currency as well.

10. Check your travel tickets

A few days before your travel date, confirm you have the correct date and time for flying. I’ve known people who have gotten it wrong so it can happen. Make a note on your calendar and phone as a reminder. Getting the times wrong can either mean a long wait, higher costs in trying to get another flight, or in some cases, like cruising, may cause you to miss destinations on your itinerary.

11. Travel Insurance

Always make sure you have travel insurance when going abroad. You can pick it up really cheap or if you check your bank account, you may have free travel insurance as part of your deal. Keep your insurance card safe and with you at all times.

This may look like a lot to remember and keep track of but it’s simple when you have it all written out in front of you. This list is not exhaustive and may need additional things added depending on where, when and how you’re travelling.

This article was written by Alan Gregory, writer for Appliances Online by day and holiday junkie by night. You can follow him on Twitter @AlanJGregory and he loves a good cup of coffee in the morning. 

How to Pack for a Short-Term Move

Leave a reply

A helpful list for making the most out of taking the least.

Suitcase How to Pack for a Short Term Move

By KENNETH MCCALL

Though many moons have passed since the last time I packed a bag for summer camp, I still remember the typed “what to pack” checklist that arrived in the mail a few weeks beforehand. Inevitably I would read the itemized list and start packing immediately, even though I might not have been leaving for almost a month. Those lists helped a lot. As long as I stuck to my list, I never forgot my toothbrush or bug spray or extra pair of socks. That didn’t make it less likely that I would lose one or two of those items while I was there, but at least I was prepared going in.

Packing for a short-term move is similar to packing for a long stay at camp, and creating a list beforehand can be invaluable to you down the road.

What to Definitely Bring

Before you pack the first box, make sure you know what kind of accommodations you are moving into during your short term stay. Is it furnished or unfurnished? If furnished, what comes with the furnishings? That is, do you need to bring a bed frame and/or mattress, your own cooking utensils? Before packing, check to see if the following will be available and if not, add them to the list:

  • Bed (mattress and/or frame)
  • Bedding (fitted and flat sheet, pillows, pillow covers, blanket)
  • Folding chair (if there is no furniture to speak of. Thrift and consignment stores can help you with temporary furniture once you settle in. It’s cheap and you can sell it to a used furniture store before returning home)
  • Kitchen items (is there a stove and/or microwave?)
    • If there is any sort of kitchen, either bring or make sure you will have:
      • Saucepan and frying pan
      • At least one plate and bowl (microwavable), cup, fork, spoon and knife
      • Spatula and manual can opener
  • Toiletries
    • Toothbrush and toothpaste
    • Facial cleansers and cleaning items (ex: Q-tips and cotton balls)
    • Cosmetics and feminine products (short term supply until you find a local store)
    • Deodorant and scents (ex: perfume or cologne)
    • Hair products (shampoo, conditioner, comb/brush, hair spray, styling equipment, styling gel, etc.)
    • Basic first aid kit
  • Electronics
    • Cell phone
    • Laptop
    • Chargers for all electronic equipment
  • Personal Documents
    • Make sure your important personal documents are in a safe and secure place, and either bring or make certified copies of any documents you might need during your stay, such as:
      • Birth certificate
      • Social security card
      • Passport
      • Driver’s license and/or I.D. card
      • Emergency contact information for medical personnel (keep this with you at all times)
      • Travelling cash and/or travelers’ checks
      • Any documents required for your travel, especially if you’re going out of the country.
  • Any medications
    • Prescribed and non-prescription medication(s). NOTE: Be sure your doctor(s) is aware that you will be gone for a certain length of time and insure that you will either have enough of your prescribed medication(s) to take with you, or will be able to purchase enough refills while gone.
  • Clothing
    • At a minimum, you should bring the following. Remember, if you are staying somewhere for a while you’ll be able to purchase additional items as needed, but you don’t need to bring your whole closet:
    • Five tops
    • Two bottoms
    • Two formal outfits
    • Casual shoes (2)
    • Dress shoes (2)
    • Underclothes – enough to last a solid week (underwear, bras, slips, socks, etc.)
    • Pajamas and/or gym clothes

What to Consider Bringing

  • Family photos
  • A couple sentimental items for decoration
  • Additional kitchen items such as:
    • Stirring spoon
    • Grater
    • Additional plates, bowls, cups and utensils for guests
    • Strainer
    • Baking dish (microwavable)
  • A few extra outfits
  • Television set (come on, do you really need that TV, especially with so much available online?)
  • A couple more pairs of shoes, but not too many! Shoes are heavy and replaceable. Don’t burden yourself with too many.
  • Your pet, but remember that travel with your pet requires a whole new set of items to remember to bring, including finding a new veterinarian for him or her in your new location. Ideally, see if you can leave your pet with a trusted relative or loved one until you return. Be sure to leave your pet caregiver with all of your emergency contact information and veterinarian contact information.

What to Put Into Storage

Everything else! Unless you absolutely need it to survive, chances are you can live with boxing it up until you return home, especially if you’re renting your place out while you’re gone. There are some things you can do that will be helpful to you in the long run if you’re planning on packing up what’s left:

  • Create a list of everything you’re boxing up. This doesn’t mean write down the title of every book or list every kitchen utensil and bath product, but a general list will help you remember what you have packed away when you get home.
  • Have your worldly goods appraised. If you have some valuable items such as family heirlooms, antiques, paintings, etc. it would be wise to have them appraised by a certified appraiser and documented that these items are being placed into storage with the storage facility and storage number listed. If something happens to the facility, such as fire, flood or other natural disaster, an appraisal will at least make sure that you are properly compensated for your losses.
  • Leave – and take – emergency contact information. Make sure that your close friends and relatives are aware of where you are staying, how long you will be gone and how to contact you in case of an emergency or otherwise. Additionally, make sure you keep emergency contact information on your person at all times in case something happens to you and medical personnel need to reach an emergency contact immediately.

Kenneth McCall is a managing partner for storage.com which provides the online systems to help customers find the best self storage units for their needs. Through Kenneth’s and his team’s work, customers can find Cherry Hill storage units and self storage in other cities. In his spare time, Kenneth likes to hike, ski and participate in other outdoor activities.

Organising a Stress-Free and Effective Home Move

Leave a reply
Charlotte Moving Company Organising a Stress Free and Effective Home Move

Charlotte Moving Company. CC Image by Moving Simplified (Flickr).

According to the statistics by the Office for National Statistics, in 2008, 5.90 million British people went abroad, as individuals and families, be it for business or pleasure. Despite being such a common practice, however, preparing for your big trip can be an emotionally difficult experience that has the potential to cause significant disruption to everyday life. Not only this, but when you consider the logistical processes involved, moving house is also a challenging task to organise effectively.

Managing Your Move: 3 Tips for Success

With these challenges in mind, it is important to manage the process in a structured manner, while also paying attention to your own emotional state of mind and the feelings of those around you. If you can achieve this delicate balance, then you can reduce the stress that the preparation can cause considerably and embrace your well-deserved break in the sun.

  • Be Proactive: Although you may not realise it, there remain two very different types of organization. The first of these is reactive, and occurs only once procedural issues have already begun to disrupt the management of a specific process. The second is proactive organisation, where you assume control of your relocation project at the beginning and plan the process logically and efficiently. This is the first step towards affecting a smooth and stress-free move for you and your loved ones.
  • Employ the Services of a Professional: Part of proactively organising your move is ensuring that you have the correct resources in the first instance, and hiring the services of an expert is key to this. A reputable removal firm is well aware of the exact processes involved in relocating, and has both the training and the experience to ease your burden significantly. This allows you to tend to the needs of those around you, and negate any emotional stresses involved.
  • Protect Your Valuables and Sentimental Items: Another issue which can complicate the travel process occurs when your valuable and sentimental items are damaged. This causes additional distress and makes an emotionally fraught situation even worse, so taking good care of these items helps to protect the well-being of your loved ones. Be sure to organize your goods and package them carefully, and pay special attention to those that may be fragile, costly or heavy with sentimental worth.

It is important to make the most of your available resources when traveling abroad, and professional service providers such as RobinsonRelo.com can help to spare you significant amounts of time and stress and you embark on a new chapter of your life.

The Secret to Truly “Blissful” Travels…

Leave a reply

Route 66 The Secret to Truly Blissful Travels...By WORLD FIRST TRAVEL INSURANCE

Have you ever wondered what your blissful travel experience would be?

After all, ‘blissful’ sure is a powerful word; a word that means different things to different people. But whether you’re sipping sangria in Seville or cruising Route 66 in a Cadillac, you can pretty much guarantee your travels will not be blissful if you forget one simple (but super-important) thing…

Good travel insurance gives you financial protection against the unexpected. It keeps your savings secure from holiday cancellation, missed departures, travel delays, strikes, bad weather, the theft of your belongings, lost luggage and so much more. So you can have the peaceful, worry-free holiday you’re looking for. Great!

But with so much choice out there, how do you find the right policy? Let’s take a look.

Good Medical Cover is Key

Slipping and breaking your arm on holiday could cause you more than physical pain. Not all countries have a free medical service like the NHS in the UK. It’s not uncommon for foreign medical bills to stretch in to thousands of pounds. That means your bank account could take a hefty hit if you have to pay for unexpected treatment while you’re on holiday. With good medical cover, your savings are safe.

Already Travelling With a Medical Condition?

Here’s a snippet of info that lots of travellers aren’t aware of: if you don’t tell your travel insurer about a pre-existing medical condition, you risk invalidating your whole policy. The trouble is, many insurers inflate their premiums drastically when they’re asked to cover medical conditions. Some even refuse cover.

Don’t worry. Shop around and you’ll be able to get your policy, without blowing your holiday budget. There are plenty of reputable companies out there who specialise in medical travel insurance and will give you the cover you need at a price that’s fair. No need to pay over the odds, no need to travel under-insured.

What If You Have to Cancel Your Holiday?

Cancelling holidays is no fun. But if you get called up for jury service, a close relative becomes unwell or something major kicks off at work you might not have much choice. Cancellation cover is there to help you claim back unrecoverable costs, such as flights and accommodation. Make sure your insurer’s maximum payout covers the cost of your holiday. And watch out for pricey excesses.

Know Your Limits

So you’re glancing over your policy documents and everything looks ship shape. No need to read all that small print, is there? Oh yes there is! Spending ten minutes getting to grips with the exclusions section of your policy could save you a lot of hassle. Knowing what you’re not covered for on holiday is as important as knowing what you are covered for. For example, you might find that you’re only covered to ride a bicycle if you’re wearing a helmet. Don’t leave it to chance.

You’re Entitled to Your Money Back 

Not happy with your cover? Your travel insurer is legally obliged to give you a fourteen day period from the date you purchase your policy where you can cancel your cover and get a full refund. No questions asked. So if you change your mind after sifting through your policy documents, you won’t be left out of pocket.

This post was written by World First Travel Insurance. If you’d like to stay up to date with more travel tips and holiday advice, connect with their social media boss Tristan Rothwell.

Free Online Language Courses For the Cash-Strapped Traveler

Leave a reply

BBC Languages Free Online Language Courses For the Cash Strapped Traveler

For those that like to travel the world, learning second or third languages is often a must if they wish to easily assimilate into new cultures. Knowing the national language of any country you visit, whether it be Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, or Swahili, makes getting around a country much easier and opens you up to further cultural experiences that you would have otherwise missed – such as finding that great hole-in-the-wall pub or that landing for a better view of natural scenery.

However, learning another language isn’t always easy or inexpensive. To learn another language in a classroom setting, you can expect to pay several hundred dollars and be forced to learn at a slower pace over the course of several weeks. If you choose to purchase software to learn a language, such as Rosetta Stone, you could find yourself spending a couple hundred dollars each time you needed to increase your learning level from novice to intermediate to advanced to fluent. Neither of these options are ideal for travelers wishing to spend more time traveling and their money on local foods and sightseeing.

So if you plan on traveling to a country that doesn’t speak your language in the near future, consider checking out some of the following free accredited online language courses to help you brush up on your language skills:

BBC Languages

BBC Languages offers a wide array of learning courses and appeals to various types of learners. In addition to basics like French, Spanish, Italian, and German, the site also offer audio and video courses in Greek, Chinese, and Portuguese, as well as mini lessons on countless others. If you find that one of the main languages covered isn’t the one you are looking for, BBC Languages also offers several other mini tutorials that will give you enough vocab to get by in numerous other countries whether it be Bulgaria or Hungary. The BBC Languages site is by far one of the most interactive free learning resources, and is definitely worth taking advantage of – even if you just need to brush up.

MIT

For those interested in learning French, German, Spanish, Japanese, or Chinese, MIT offers several courses to help you obtain the language skills you desire. Set up much like an online college course, MIT’s language courses are offered in series of I-III or higher, and cover everything from language to customs and histories. So if you want a little more than just a language course, consider looking into MIT’s online language learning resources for a more comprehensive learning experience.

My Language Exchange

My Language Exchange is a unique and incredibly valuable online language learning resource because it actually lets you practice the language you would like to learn with a native speaker – for free. Normally, you have to pay a substantial amount of money for a private tutor, and with My Language Exchange, you get the same kind of learning experience without the high price. Not only that, but you also will be more likely to learn relevant slang terms that will help your get by in whatever country you are interested in visiting.

Users should note, however, that not all languages are easy to come by on the site. While My Language Exchange tries to do a good job finding a partner for everyone, more remote or less mobile countries aren’t going to have the same level of connectivity for obvious reasons. So finding someone to practice your Spanish or French with might be easier than finding someone to practice your Swahili with.

The Internet is full of online learning opportunities for the traveler – even those of us that like to keep our budgets low. So if you are looking to travel abroad, don’t simply buy a translation dictionary and hope for the best. Go to one of the several online language learning resources to learn some basic vocabulary – not only will the locals appreciate it, but you’ll be able to enjoy your travels a bit more too.

The Essential Travel Checklist

6 Replies

Passport The Essential Travel Checklist

By EMILY BUCKLEY

You’ve packed your towel, flip-flops, swimwear, shades, shorts and hat but have you thought about all the essentials? While a pretty summer dress or an excellent paperback might seem like essential items, you won’t get very far if your passport isn’t up to date or you haven’t had the vaccinations legally required to enter your destination country. We’ve put together a quick checklist of essential things to do so that you can tick them off and really enjoy your travels, knowing that everything is taken care of.

Passport and Visas

The most important thing to do before you travel, ideally well before you jet off, is to check that your passport is valid. Many countries require it to have at least 6 months validity but if you have left it to the last minute most offer a fast-track service. Some countries also require a visa to enter – check with your country’s foreign office to see if you will require one for your destination. It is also a good idea to note down your passport number and photocopy both he information page and the page with the relevant visas.

Travel Insurance

Don’t ever think about travelling anywhere without travel insurance – the holiday of a lifetime could soon turn into the holiday from hell if you find yourself stuck with a load of medical expenses or forking out for a brand new wardrobe because the airline has lost your luggage. When you book your insurance, ensure it covers you for everything you plan to do, such as extreme sports.

Vaccinations

This is another thing you need to check well before you’re due to depart as some vaccinations need to be administered over a course of weeks or even months. Go to a travel clinic and check what’s required to enter the country and also what is recommended.

Driving License

If you plan on hiring a car whilst abroad, don’t forget your driving license and ensure that it’s valid. It might be a good idea to read up on the basic driving laws of the country you’re visiting too.

Money

Shop around for the best exchange rate – research banks, the post office, even supermarkets but don’t, whatever you do, wait until you get to the airport as their rates are always sky-high. If you plan on using your debit card to withdraw money whilst you’re abroad or your credit card to pay for large items, let your bank know or else you might find that they block any transactions.

Share Your Plans

Tell family and friends where you are going and share your itinerary with them if you have one. It’s wise to leave your contact details and insurance policy information with someone back home too, or store them using one of the many online data storage facilities available.

Emily Buckley is a travel writer and often writes for Good2Go Travel Insurance, a leading travel insurance website that offers a range of insurance options, depending on your travel circumstances. For further help on what to do before you leave, and what you should be aware of whilst you’re away, take a look at their travel checklist.

Support Local Communities With Pack For A Purpose

1 Reply

packforapurpose Support Local Communities With Pack For A Purpose

Ever wished you could make a difference and give back to the countries you visit, as a way to say thank you, but didn’t quite know where to begin?

Founded on the belief that every little helps, Pack For A Purpose encourages travelers to save a small space in their luggage for educational materials or medical supplies to local community-based projects around the world.

“Five pounds (2.27kg) can be as much as 400 pencils or five deflated soccer balls,” said Rebecca Rothney, chairperson of Pack For A Purpose. “It’s startling to see just how little some schools and clinics have to work with. I believe we can all find a little space in our luggage for a bag of supplies. If enough people make small contributions, we have the potential to make an enormous positive impact.”

Getting involved is easy. Visit www.packforapurpose.org and select your destination plus lodging to see the community project and needed supplies. Choose which supplies to bring, pack them in your luggage and deliver them to the camp manager upon arrival.

5 Keys to Traveling Without Stress

8 Replies
barcelona culture 5 Keys to Traveling Without Stress

Lunch time in Barcelona.

By LINDA RIPOLL and MYRA MCKELVIE

As the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When it comes to your overseas trip, some careful preparation could be the difference between a lifetime of memories, and a nightmare you’d rather forget.

Many travelers solve this problem by hiring a full-service tour operator to ensure a worry-free experience, packed with nothing but highlights. Other travelers, however, consider this approach to be far too choreographed for their tastes. They think it will take away from the authentic travel experience. Do independent travelers take more risks? Not if they’re smart. You can retain all the spontaneity you want, if you’re ready for the unexpected.

Know the Culture and “How They Do Things Around Here”

Studying the culture of ancient Greece is one thing. Understanding how Greeks interact today is quite another. We’ll assume you know a few phrases to get what you want to eat at restaurants. However, while the server won’t bother you unless you request something, it is common to order more than once, and to ask about dishes that look interesting. Some Americans can be put off by what seems like poor service and leave thinking they were being ignored. Those who know to ask for service, on the other hand, discover that dining out in Greece is a friendly and relaxing experience.

If you are fortunate to have been invited to dinner, don’t even think about grabbing for the check – it’s humiliating for the host. But if you invited a guest to dinner, don’t expect him to split it with you. When it comes to cultural standards, there is a lot to learn. When should you tip and how much? What kind of dress is appropriate? What kinds of gestures are seen as rude? Going with the flow of the culture you visit does more than give you a sense for their way of life. It makes personal connections easier, and opens the door to more of the experiences you’re after.

Know the Law

Last year, a young couple was arrested in Dubai for kissing in public. Their sentence to a month in jail and a $270 fine, followed by immediate deportation, was upheld in an appeals court. An extreme example of surprising and confusing laws, to be sure, but this is a cautionary tale worth hearing, not just to bone up on what’s allowed and what isn’t in the country you’re visiting, but about how justice works.

Many parts of the world take law enforcement at it’s word, and presume suspects guilty until proven innocent. In many of those same places, police officers consider payoffs (especially from confused tourists) as part of their retirement plans. Knowing this, would you decide to part with $50 cash to avoid a trip to the station, or would you attempt to fight the injustice? Deciding how to navigate (and avoid) these touchy subjects in advance can help you decide, for example, whether you should rent a car, or use public transportation.

Buy a Calling Card or Cell Phone

Paying for international calls from abroad can be very expensive. A pre-paid calling card can help to mitigate that expense and make calling home a little easier. Of course, even if you have a card, many countries don’t have phones in every hotel room, which means waiting in line.

If you want more access to communication, consider buying or renting a cell phone that includes international rates. That way, you can always be reached and you always have your own “lifeline” available in any situation. Some travelers like that extra feeling of security. If you secure the phone in advance, you can often share the number with family and friends before you leave.

Build Extra Time (and Money) into Your Plans

Cancelled flights, severe weather, lost bags, getting sick – you can’t predict everything, but you can expect something to take longer than planned, and end up costing a little more. While travel insurance can help offset the price of misfortune, nothing helps more in the moment than some time to take a breather.

In addition to things going wrong, don’t forget that travel can be tiring! There’s nothing wrong with taking a nap before hitting the town for a late dinner. Besides, many people around the world aren’t nearly as concerned with time as Americans are. So, your schedule won’t always hold, no matter how much you try.

Carry an Extra File of Vital Info

Photocopy your passport, including the pages with the entry stamps and visas for the countries you are visiting, your driver’s license, birth certificate, credit cards, contact info for your hotels, and the US Embassy. Keep this information in your hotel safe or other secure place, away from your real passport, credit cards and cash. While you are en route with your bags, keep the envelope separate from your wallet. Recovering from a lost or stolen wallet is a whole lot easier when you have back up at the ready, and have followed our advice above and bought or rented a cell phone.

For the footloose traveler, going with the wind can be the most rewarding experience of all, but just because your activities aren’t planned out, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your homework.

Linda Ripoll is a senior editor at Without The Stress, a passport, travel visa, and immigration advisory firm located in Los Angeles. Myra McKelvie is one of the world’s foremost UK Immigration experts. She is currently offering consulting services at UK Immigration Without The Stress. Prior to her current role, she was an entry clearance officer (ECO) at the UK Consulate in Los Angeles for 15 years. Myra is originally from Glasgow, Scotland.