TRAVEL TIPS
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Here you will find lots of useful travel tips. You can read the entire list of tips by scrolling down or by topics when you click on the topic in the table of contents below. - Documents - Passports & Visas - Money - Driving - Communicating in a Foreign Language - Shopping - Tipping - Photos - Cruises
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Plan
as far in advance as possible.
Generally, the
further in advance you plan, the better your chances for a lower fare.
However, there are some exceptions. For example, a sale fare may
be put on the market a month before you want to travel and if you book
to far out in advance you would miss the sale fare. In
general, however, the best fares exist more than 21 days before your travel date since
many fares have advance purchase requirements,
usually 21 days, 14 days and 7 days.
Try
different days and times. Fares
are generally lower on low-demand days and times. The lowest-demand travel
days are usually Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday. The highest-demand days are
usually Friday and Sunday. Low-demand
times are often on late-evening flights.
Search
nearby area airports. When
lower fares are sold out at one airport, they may be available at another
nearby airport.
Consider
flying round-trip. Sometimes
a round-trip itinerary is priced less than two one-way trips.
Stay
over a Saturday night. Sometimes
a lower fare is available if you stay over a Saturday night.
Make
holiday plans early. Holidays and school vacations are generally the
highest-demand travel times. The earlier you plan, the better your chance of
finding the lowest fare. Some people plan six months in advance.
Watch for codeshare flights and Alliances. Airlines now have codesharing partners which allow you to get to more destinations at a lower fare, but they can be very confusing.
Avoid
stopovers if possible. They usually cost
more.
Use
coupons in Europe, Asia, Latin America.
Know
the difference between One Way, Round Trip, Open Jaw, and Circle Trips.
Knowing the difference can save you a considerable
amount in fares.
Know
when to use "Internet Fares" or “Published Fares” and when to use “Consolidated” Fares.
Your “Wide World of Travel” travel agent knows
which is best for your situation.
Understand
how BRIGADA works.
Avoid
“Double Booking.”
Avoid
ticketing using “Hidden City”, “Back to Back”, “Churning”.
They are illegal and could cause you to be bumped.
This could cost you considerably if you have to re-ticket.
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1. Passports.
Make sure your passport is current - keeping in mind that some
countries now require that your passport must be valid for six months after
your return to the United States. If
you don't have a passport, get one as soon as possible.
You'll need proof of U.S. citizenship (a birth certificate, for
example), proof of identity (a driver's license will do), two recent two-inch
by two-inch color photographs, and a completed official passport form.
You may obtain a passport from the State Department Passport Agency,
federal or state courthouse, U.S. post office, or contact us at A Wide World of
Travel and we will help you with an application. The fee for obtaining a passport will be listed on your
application. Passports are valid
for ten years from date of issue. We
recommend applying at least three months before you plan to travel.
2. Guard
your passport. Don't hand
your passport over to unauthorized
persons or pack it in your luggage. It's
valuable! Keep a record of your
passport number and the date and place of its issue.
A photocopy of the first page of your passport, plus 2 extra
passport-sized photos packed separate from your passport, is a good idea.
If lost or stolen, immediately notify local police and the nearest American embassy or
consulate. You'll be issued a
three-month temporary passport, but you'll have to fill out a detailed report
and follow the same procedure required to obtain your original passport.
3. Visas.
Some countries require visas. A
visa is an endorsement made in and on a passport allowing entry into the
country you're visiting, testifying that your passport has been examined and
found in order. It permits you to
visit that country for a specified purpose and usually for a limited time.
Apply directly to the embassies or consulates of the countries you plan
to visit (the Congressional Directory, available
in most libraries, has addresses).
For the website for most of the embassies check out
www.embassy.org.
If
you are traveling with a group, some countries accept group as opposed to
individual visas. Your travel
company can arrange this (and can sometimes arrange individual visas as
well-find out in advance). We can help you with obtaining
these visas as well.
4. Carry
extra copies of everything.
Take at least two copies of all your important documents and travel
aids. These include your
passport, tickets, traveler's checks, birth certificate, credit cards, and
visas. Keep one with you, and
deposit the other in a safe place.
NOTE: For a detailed copy of your itinerary (if it is booked through Worldspan with A Wide World of Travel) go to www.mytripandmore.com and put in your last name and the record locator number (PNR number).
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5. Prescription
duplicates. Since foreign
trade names are different from those used in the States, ask your doctor or
pharmacist for the generic drug name rather than a brand name.
Also, carry a prescription for your eyeglasses.
In addition, your basic traveling medicine kit should include:
-
aspirin or aspirin substitute
6.
Medical
documents. Get a medical report. If you have any special health problems, have your doctor
prepare your medical history for a foreign doctor.
It should include:
Similarly,
you might carry a medical alert card in your wallet or purse.
This is a compact card, available at most pharmacies, stating any
special medical conditions, allergies, and your blood type.
Medic-Alert, a nonprofit foundation, will maintain whatever medical
data you entrust to them on their computers.
The information can be retrieved via an emergency phone call
7. Get
your shots before you leave. Ask
your doctor what shots and /or vaccinations you need for a specific area, or
check with the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia. Telephone: 888-232-3228.
You can also find information at www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm
.
Also, because there could be a reaction, get your shots well in advance.
8.
If you're on a special diet,
notify your tour operator or cruise
line in advance.
Some can accommodate you with special meals.
Also remember to notify the airline of your need for kosher,
vegetarian, or low-salt meals.
9.
If you're diabetic, plan ahead
and be prepared. See your
physician or a diabetes professional before you travel, especially if you are
recently diagnosed or if you are an infrequent traveler. You may want to subscribe to The
Diabetic Traveler, a quarterly newsletter devoted to this topic.
Write to The Diabetic Traveler,
P.O. Box 8223 RW, Stamford, CT 06905
for subscription information.
10. If
you have a handicap or disability, there's
an information service to help you plan
trips in the U.S. and abroad.
Contact: Travel Information Service, Moss Rehab M.R. Telephone
service only: 215-456-9600. Or
request an information package from: Society for the Advancements of Travel
for the Handicapped 347 5th Ave., Suite 610 New York, NY 10016.
11. Take
two of everything "medical" prescription glasses, contact lenses,
dentures, and other health-related
items.
12. How
to find medical help abroad. ,While planning your trip, ask your own
doctor and dentist for lists of reliable practitioners in the area you are
traveling to. If you have no such
list, find the nearest university teaching-hospital emergency room, or call
the U.S. embassy or consulate for a recommendation.
A nonprofit organization called the International Association for
Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT) can provide valuable services in the
event you become ill while traveling-from medical charts to lists of North
American-trained, English-speaking doctors practicing abroad (who all accept
standard fees). Membership is
free, but the group relies on donations.
Apply at least 8 weeks in advance.
For information, contact IAMAT, 1623 Military Rd # 279, Niagra Falls,
NY, 14304-1745.
Telephone: 716-754-4883 or
www.iamat.org.
13.
A
dental checklist. No one wants to be saddled with a toothache while on
vacation
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14. Insurance.
Are you covered? Your
regular insurance policy may have a travel clause covering you for personal
injury and loss of baggage, but may have certain restrictions in cases of
other medical emergency. If so,
it is highly advisable to add special low-cost travel insurance for medical
expenses while traveling. Medicare
is not valid outside the United
States.
15. Trip
cancellation insurance is highly recommended,
and available from travel agents
and tour operators. It costs
very little and protects you in case you must postpone your trip--or must
return home suddenly. Be sure
that the cost of a full one-way economy fare home, and not just the package
price, is covered. Bad weather
insurance may also be purchased. (Check your policy carefully.
Most include a clause that limits or denies protection if your
cancellation or early return is due to illness that springs from a"
pre-existing condition."*)
Note: Through A Wide World of Travel, you can obtain one of the most comprehensive insurance policies offered by the travel industry at a low group rate. A Wide World of Travel can provide its travelers with $100,000 of coverage of travel accident insurance for a nominal fee.
* A
Wide
World
of Travel offers insurance that waives the preexisting condition if you
purchase the insurance when the booking
is made.
16.
Know the currency of your chosen
destination, including lesser denominations.
The list below shows the monetary units of various foreign countries.
To estimate how much money you'll need, check the exchange rates listed
in the financial section of your local newspaper.
Then, just before you leave you can ask your bank for the latest rates.
SOME INTERNATIONAL MONETARY UNITS
Country
…… Currency Country……Currency
In early 2002, 12 of the 15 European Union countries
converted to euro banknotes and coins. Over the next 17 months, the dollar
dropped from a high of 1.13 euros to a low of 0.84 euros in May 2003.
That was just a eurocent below what the dollar was buying when the Single
Currency was actually inaugurated in 1999 for banking, credit card and other
electronic transactions.* (Click
for today's exchange rates.)
The euro zone comprises Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Portugal, Poland, Spain, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, and the
United Kingdom, whose old national currencies (marks, lire, guilder, etc.) are
no longer legal tender.
All those nations outside the EU, including Switzerland, Norway and
Iceland; and the Eastern European countries, continue to maintain their own
currencies.
17.
Exchange the bulk of your funds overseas.
Once
abroad, banks usually offer the best exchange rate, much better than hotels,
or exchange shops (identified by signs that say "Cambio, Wechsel,
Change"). To get the most
for your money, you need to compare service fees and surcharges in
addition to the straight rate. And
be aware that the rates for converting from cash differ from those for
traveler's checks. It's best to
change money as needed, because many nations will not re-exchange leftover
currency upon your departure. Finally,
never change money on the black market.
18. Credit
cards. Leave all of your U.S.
store credit cards at home, but do take a few
major credit cards with you (Visa and MasterCard).
It pays to make major purchases via credit card-you get a good exchange
rate, the protection of the card's charge-back provisions, and often an extra
guarantee on your purchase.
19. Conversion Charts. If you don't have a currency converter or calculator, make your own conversion chart and carry it in your purse or wallet for handy reference while shopping, dining, etc.
(NOTE:
Any figures mentioned above (if
printed) are for illustrative purposes only and are based on international
currency values at time of publication.)
20. ATM
cards. If your ATM card is
part of the Cirrus or Plus network here at home, it may also work overseas,
where foreign ATMs also belong to that network.
You use the machines the same as at home, by punching in your personal
identification number (PIN), and the amount of cash you want (in local
currency). You'll benefit from
the wholesale exchange rate banks use for large-scale transactions (sometimes
up to 7% more favorable than at the bank counter!).
A
few caveats: Find out if the Cirrus or Plus network is available in the land
you're visiting. You can
determine this by asking your bank for the worldwide directories.
Make sure your PIN number will be accepted abroad.
Your bank can confirm this, or change your number if necessary.
Also ask your U.S. bank if any charges will be applied for using a
foreign ATM. Finally, the strip
on the back of ATM cards can become demagnetized, and therefore ineffectual,
when passing through airport security checks and x-rays.
Ask the security guard to hand-carry your card through the gate.
A NOTE FROM VISITEUROPE.COM in regards to ATMs:
ATMs accepting U.S. bank debit and credit cards are
available in many cities in most countries, usually with English-language
instructions. For MasterCard, look for machines with the Cirrus logo; they are
widespread. Withdrawals from a checking or savings account, or cash advances
against a credit card are dispensed in local currency.
You can save in two ways: the wholesale exchange rate (up to 5 percent better) applies; and you avoid transaction fees charged by exchange bureaus and banks. (Your home bank's ATM fee does apply, as will credit-card cash-advance fees. A local ATM usage fee may also apply.) A four-digit numeric PIN is standard for most European ATMs. Check with your issuing bank to make sure your PIN will work in Europe.
21.
Cash advances.
Since some countries are now imposing surcharges for cashing
traveler's checks, travelers are finding that it often pays to take cash
advances against their credit card accounts.
Alternately, you may wish to carry larger denomination traveler's
checks (to limit the number of transactions).
22. Traveler's
checks. Buy them in U.S.
dollar denominations from a company that doesn't charge a commission.
Don't exchange a traveler's check for more cash than you'll need for a
short time. That way, you'll lose
less in case of theft and won't get stuck with extra currency when you enter
another country.
23. Personal
checks. Personal checks are
not accepted everywhere, but some stores do take them and occasionally give
you a better price than for credit card purchases.
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DO YOUR HOMEWORK FOR YOUR
TRIP
24. Find
out if there's a tour director on your
tour. If so, does he or she
stay with you from start to finish? It's
always best if your tour director is employed directly by your travel company.
That means he or she will have your interests at heart and will try to
please you. Many companies
contract local overseas operators, who in turn subcontract local guides to
handle their clients abroad. These
guides may have several different groups to oversee, and consequently may not
provide the direct, personal. attention you want.
In addition, if your guide combines groups for excursions or briefings,
find out if they're English-speaking groups - otherwise, you may have to sit
through endless translations!
25. Study
all the material contained in travel brochures.
It's fun to read trip itineraries and enjoy all the photographs, but
it's also important to know exactly what you're getting.
If you're taking a package tour, check the cancellation and refund
policy. Know exactly what happens
if you change your mind. Cancellation
penalties vary; some are more severe than others.
26. Find
out if the tour has been "checked out."
How much does the tour operator really know about your accommodations?
Has someone from the company been there recently?
Things can change drastically, and touted comforts may be promises, not
facts. (A Wide World of Travel uses only tour operators who create and operate
their own tours, so every tour is thoroughly checked before it's offered.)
Most of the tours are operated by USTOA
affiliates which means that they are backed by a consumer protection
program.
27. Ask
the right questions about your hotel.
Are they close to major attractions?
What class rating are they? Do
rooms have individually controlled thermostats?
Are there working elevators or safety ramps? (A Wide World of Travel
inspectors use a checklist of more than 50 questions to evaluate hotels and
ensure your comfort and enjoyment when they make site inspections of
properties.)
28. Read
between the lines. Know
exactly what those descriptive brochures are really saying.
Phrases like "You may want to cruise this glorious isle" may
mean these treats are not included in your trip cost.
Does the itinerary clearly state what sightseeing is included or merely
available, whether the sight is "viewed" or 'visited"?
If in doubt, ask your travel company to clarify, or ask to speak to a
traveler who's taken the tour.
29. The
brochure should spell out
what is and isn't included. Refer
to the Terms & Conditions - usually the fine print in the back that spells
out all you need to know. Once
you've decided on the trip you want and you've read the brochure, dig deeper.
What about the climate? Off-season
dates may be a bargain, but the weather may not be good.
On the other hand, crowds will be at a minimum.
Decide which you prefer most. If
you're going to mountainous country, ask about the altitude. It can affect your health.
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
30. Research
your destination. Go to the
library and take out some books on the area you plan to visit. Learn something about its history, culture, government, and
people. If possible, learn at
least a few common phrases of the language.
Some
excellent b
Insight Guides, www.insightguides.com
Lonely Planet Travel Guides, www.lonelyplanet.com
Frommer's, www.frommers.com
Foder's, www.fodors.com
Let's Go Guides, www.letsgo.com
Rick Steve's, www.ricksteves.com
Rand McNally, www.randmcnally.com
Distant Lands, www.distantlands.com
The Globe Corner Bookstore, www.globecorner.com
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IMPORTANT ! Keep in mind that most airlines have the following baggage requirements. However, these are constantly changing. Now most airlines are changing to 50 pounds domestically with an additional surcharge up to 70 pounds. If you are traveling internationally you can normally have two bags that can be checked in and they have to be no more than 70 pounds each and be no larger than 62 inches, which is determined by length + height + width. You may also take on one "carry on" bag that should not weigh any more than 40 pounds and not exceed 45". Domestically, many airlines have reduced the weight limit to 50 lbs for the checked baggage. Also, in light of 9-11, changes are being made. Be sure to double-check with us or the airlines for the requirements of the airline you are traveling on. Be aware that security is much tighter since 9- 11 and there are a number of things that can no longer be carried on board For a complete list go to the website of the Transportation Security Administration at www.tsa.gov .
On
the other hand, if you're taking a cruise, you can be a little more liberal in
your packing. Your cruise will
require more formal dress for certain special evenings.
You'll only unpack once, and the ship's porters will carry your bags to
your cabin.
32. Pack
and repack articles in the same order each time.
During short stays, you'll then be able to reach into your bags and
find what you want without unpacking completely.
33. Coordinate
your wardrobe around a single color.
This will automatically eliminate many items of clothing.
Separates (sports coats and trousers for men; skirts, slacks, and
blouses for women) are best because they can be mixed and matched.
34. Be prepared for the weather. Check
your newspaper's temperature listings for the area(s) you'll visit for one
week prior to departure as well as going to
www.weather.com for the
latest weather. To
prepare for a July cold spell or a winter heat wave, use "layering"-
a sweater on top of a shirt on top of a turtleneck, and so on-as layers can be
added or removed according to the local temperature.
35. Use
every square inch of luggage space. Stuff
hosiery into the toes of your shoes. Roll
up sweaters and underwear on the bottom, followed by layers of clothing that
wrinkle more easily. And packing
the bag very full helps keep the contents from sliding around.
36. Minimize wrinkling by
packing shirts and dresses with buttons buttoned. Fold clothes as little as possible, and fold them as close to
the waist and seams as you can. Plastic
cleaner's bags between layers minimize wrinkling, and you should keep each
layer as flat and even as possible. Unpack
as soon as possible after you arrive at your hotel. Instead of bringing a heavy travel iron, try this: Hang your
clothes in the bathroom when taking a shower.
Often, the humidity is enough to de-wrinkle them.
37. Pack
only as many toiletry articles as you’ll use. Small sample sizes are
excellent.
38. Be
sure your baggage is clearly
labeled.
Remove old destination labels and paste your name, address, and
tour group in a prominent place on the outside and inside of each piece of
luggage. The outside tag should
show only your name and tour group; print your address on the reverse
(concealed) side. Enclose a copy
of your itinerary in each bag.
Also, put a piece of bright-colored tape or ribbon near the handle of your
luggage to help pick out your bag from similar models.
39. Don't
pack anything fragile, valuable, or
perishable. Money, jewelry,
valuables, important documents, such as your passport, prescription drugs,
matches, or cigarette lighters should be carried with you.
Leave all your expensive jewelry and furs at home or in safe storage.
40. Pack
some old clothes. You can lighten your load as you go by taking along
old
41. Pack
some of your traveling companion's clothes in
your
bag, and vice versa. Both of
you will then have a change of clothing if one bag is lost. Pack toiletries and a
change of clothes in your carry-on bag.
42. Make
an inventory list for quick checkups.
- Tickets, Itinerary, Passport / Photo ID, Reservations.
- Phone numbers, Phone card.
- Travelers checks, Credit Card or Debit Card (with pin number), Wallet.
-
Currency of the country you're visiting.
Enough for initial expenses, until you
have a chance to change more money.
- Vaccination Certificate.
-
Address book for home and new addresses.
- Language dictionary and phrase book.
- Business/Calling cards.
-
Camera and plenty of film. (It's much cheaper at home.) Pack in carry-on bag.
-
Electrical (with converter-adapter) or battery-operated appliances.
-
Bottle opener, corkscrew, paring knife, etc. (or good Swiss Army knife) for
room snacks and picnicking. (Pack
in checked luggage, not in carry-on.)
-
Face cloth and soap (not all hotels supply them).
-
Extra set of luggage keys (not kept with your regular keys).
-
Travel alarm clock.
- Glasses / Sunglasses (if you use them).
-
Sewing kit / Safety pins.
- Clothesline and clips
-
Toiletries: Comb / hairbrush, mirror, hairdryer, shower cap, deodorant, soap,
toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, shaving supplies,
lotion, cosmetics moist towelettes in packages,
-
Small plastic bag for dirty clothes.
-
Small container of laundry soap for hand wash.
- Warm / Sunny Weather List: Sunscreen lotion, insect repellent, sun hat, scarf, bathing suit / trunks, beach coat / jacket, shorts, thongs.
- Wet / Cold Weather List: Lightweight raincoat / rain hat, fold-up umbrella, boots, muffler, boots, gloves / mittens, parka / down jacket .
- Jewelry, cuff links, tie clasp.
-
Medical supplies. First Aid
Kit. Pain Relievers. Prescription Medicines
PROVIDE
FOR HOME SECURITY
43.
Notify
police and neighbors when you
are leaving and how long you'll be
gone. Put
44.
Arrange
for the care of your house,
lawn, garden, and plants. Well-kept
grounds
45. Always
reconfirm your airline reservations before leaving.
When reconfirming or
making any arrangements, get the name of the person at the other end of the
line. This lends weight to your
claim if there is any mix-up.
46. Arrive
for your flight just a little bit early.
Airlines suggest that passengers on international flights arrive a
minimum of 2 -hours before takeoff, however with the tightening security 3
hours would be better. Breathing
time can make the difference between a "bon voyage" and a
bad-tempered takeoff!
47. Leave
an itinerary with your friends, relatives,
neighbors,-or coworkers, so that they'll
know where you can be reached in case
an emergency arises. (A Wide World of Travel tour members receive extra itineraries to leave with friends
and family.)
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48. If your plane is late arriving and you miss a connecting flight, never
rush to the connecting airline. Instead,
get yourself rebooked and your ticket validated by the airline that caused the
delay. The airline may be
required to provide you with hotel accommodations at its expense, and to
reschedule you on a flight the following morning, if necessary.
49. Take
a sweater and a pair of slipper-socks
in your tote to wear on the plane in
case it gets cold, as it
often does. Ask the
flight attendant for a blanket and a pillow as soon as you are seated; they
may be impossible to get later on.
50. If an airline loses your luggage, complete the "lost baggage"
report with the airline responsible
for the loss - regardless of any
inconvenience. Leave your
itinerary with the airline, so that when your luggage is found it can be
returned to you wherever you are. Keep
receipts for any items you may have had to
purchase while your bags were missing, to make it easier to recover losses
from the airline.
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51. Find
out beforehand about the international driver's license, available from most
branches of the American Automobile Association (AAA).
Rental companies in some countries-among them, Ireland-will not allow
people over a certain age (generally 70) to rent cars.
There may also be other restrictions.
Contact your nearest motor vehicle department for information.
52. Familiarize yourself with international road signs.
These signs use pictorial symbols instead of words, and you'll come
across them in most European countries. Remember
also that many European countries, Germany and Italy, for instance-have very
high speed limits (some. highways have no limits).
Never drive in the left-hand lane unless you are prepared to travel at
high speeds-often the equivalent of 90 mph or more.
53. Know
your kilometers. One
kilometer is .62 mile; 100 kilometers equals 62 miles. 1 (You will also have
to adjust to the fact that in Europe gasoline is sold in liters and is more
expensive.)
54. Map
two routes for each auto trip. One
should be the quickest route, the other the most scenic.
Rand McNally and AAA are good sources of maps in this country.
In Europe, Michelin road maps noting scenic roads (outlined in green)
are sold at bookstores, newsstands, and gas stations.
55.
Don't drive too long.
Remember that 100 miles on an American superhighway and 100 miles over
narrow, winding European roads and cobblestone streets are two very different
trips.
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56. Get
a map of the city with your hotel location clearly
marked. Also, get a map of
the bus and subway lines. (The concierge or front desk can often oblige you
with this.) You might also ask a hotel employee to explain the local public
transportation system, and for advice on reasonable charges for taxis.
57. The
front desks of better hotels often have amenities you may need-travel irons,
hair dryers, voltage converters, etc.
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COMMUNICATING
IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY
58. Bring
a phrase book. No matter how
widely English is spoken, it pays (and it's good diplomacy) to try to learn a
few words in the native tongue. Besides
the basic “please” and “thank you,”
practical phrases to know include: “Please speak slowly”; “I don't understand”; and “I’ll see if I can find it
in this book."
59. Carry
the name of your hotel in writing. Have
a native write out the name and address of your hotel or lodging on a piece of
paper, or carry a postcard or book of matches with the hotel name and address
on it. It makes life much easier
to be able to hand over a legible piece of paper to a taxi driver or someone
giving you directions. This is
especially important in countries such as China, where the alphabet is totally
different from ours.
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60. Bring
an extra bag. Pack a
collapsible bag or tote in the bottom of your suitcase to carry home your
souvenirs, then put all purchases in it.
It will ease your way through customs.
61. Keep
a log of all your purchases. Include
what you paid in foreign currency and the equivalent in U.S. dollars. This will make it easier to fill out customs forms.
62. Tuck
plastic or string bags into your carryall or purse when you shop. In exotic parts of the world bags are unknown, and even in
many European stores, customers are expected to supply their own bags.
63. Do some preliminary shopping
research before you leave. Make
a list of items you want to buy, sizes you'll need, then check prices in your
local stores. That way, you'll have a basis for comparison.
Excellent resources are the Born
to Shop guides by Susan Schneider Thomas.
There are separate books for various places (London, Hong Kong, Paris,
Italy, and more), and each offers tips on prices, where to find factory
outlets, flea markets, etc.
64. There
may be more to the price than meets the eye. Know
duty charges. Rules vary with
each country, so be sure to check with the consulate of the country you're
visiting for the most current and accurate information.
65. If
traveling abroad, before you buy that antique, hand-loomed rug or work of art,
make sure you can get it out of the country.
Many nations have laws against the export of such items. Be sure to get a clear copy of the vendor's name, address,
and fax number should you need to contact them once you return to the states.
Keep in mind that if you are having your purchase shipped home, it may
take 1-9 months, depending on what type of service the vendor uses.
66. Beware
of duty-free shops. Most do
not offer any real bargains. A
few exceptions: cameras and jewelry at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam,
Lalaounis and Zolotas gold jewelry in the Athens airport, and jewelry at the
H. Stern shop in Tel Aviv; the airport shops in Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Rio
are good.
CLOTHING
SIZES
CODE: A=American, J=Japanese,
E=English, C=Continental
MEN A
J
E
C
Coats 39R A7 39R 50-6
Sweaters 38E
SAB4 38ES 44-4
395 ABS 395 46-4
405 AB6 405 48-4
41R AB7 41R 50-4
Shirts 15
3/4 40 15
3/4 40
16
41
16
41
16 1/2 42 16 1/2
42 17
43
17
43
17 1/2 44
17 1/2 44
18
45
18
45
Shoes 8
25
6 1/2 41
8 1/2
26
7
42
9
26 1/2
7 1/2 42
9 1/2
27
8
43
10
27 1/2
8 1/2 43
10 1/2
28
9 44
11
28 1/2
9 1/2 44
11 1/2
29
10 45
12
29 1/2
10 1/2 46
WOMEN'S
A
J
E
C
Dresses
8
7
10
38
Suits
10
9
12
40
Coats
12 11 14
42
(Women's 14
13 15
44
sizes)
16 15
18
46
18
17
20
48
Sweaters
10
M
34
40
Blouses
12 M
36
42
14
L
38
44
16
L
40
46
18
LL
42
48
20
LL
44
50
Shoes
5
22 1/2 3 1/2
34 1/2
5 1/2
23
4
35
6
23 1/2
4 1/2
35 1/2
6 1/2
24
5
36
7 24 1/2
5 1/2
37
7 1/2
25
6
38
8
251/2 6 1/2
38 1/2
8 1/2
26
7
39
9
26 1/2
7 1/2
39 1/2
10
27
8
40
NOTE: This table is
meant as a guide only. Sizes will
vary somewhat depending on country of manufacture.
67. Many
Common Market countries impose a value-added tax (VAT) on
goods and
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68. Find
out when discount phone rates apply. You'll
not only save money; you'll also
69.
Ask for instructions on how to
use public phones, and whether you need special
70.
Before calling long distance
from your hotel, find out if
your hotel belongs to
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71.
Don't
worry about whom to tip.
If someone performs a service you appreciate,
DOORMAN: $1 per bag if he carries your luggage to the desk, 500 each if he
brings
BELLHOP:
$1 for showing you into your room, more if he opens drapes, checks for towels,
ROOM
SERVICE: For ice and glasses, $1; for drinks, $2; for meals, 20%.
MAID: Generally $1-$1.50
per day.
71.
Check to see if tipping is
customary!
In many cultures,
like Singapore, China, and
73. Check your tour brochure carefully to see whether tipping for
local guide and bus
74. Get
plenty of small bills and coins for tips as soon as you enter the country.
You
A HANDY TIPPING GUIDE
out
Hairdresser
Services
AUSTRALIA
Included
in
10%
A$1.00
A$1.00
bill,
but extra
5-10%
optional
BRAZIL
10%
if not
included
in bill
10%
10%
10%
EGYPT
Included
in
None
10-20%
25-50
bill,
but extra
piasters
10%
customary
included
in bill,
10%
DM 1-3
DM 1-2
but
leave small change for
waiter/waitress
Leave
15% if not
10%
10-20%
HKD2
included
in bill
15%
Optional
10%
50-100
pesos
PORTUGAL
5-10%
it's never
5-10%
100-500
100-200
included
in bill
escudos
escudos
10-15% if not
10-15%
10-15%
20 kopek
included
in bill
SPAIN
Included
in bill,
10-15% 10-15%
10-25
but
extra 5-10%
pesetas
customary
SWITZERLAND
Included
in bill
15%
15%
None
TURKEY
Included
in bill,
None
10-20%
500-$1.00
but
extra 5-15%
customary
UNITED KINGDOM
10-15% if not
10-15%
10-15%
L1.00
included in bill
75. Take
$25 to $30 in U.S. $1 bills for emergencies.
Bellmen and chambermaids in hotels that have a foreign exchange desk
will accept American bills (but not coins) as, tips.
76. Outside
the U.S., always ask if service has been included in the restaurant bill.
If it has, it's usually customary to leave your change, or an
additional 3-10% extra (depending on service).
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77. Don't
feel you have to see everything to get your money's worth.
If your tour is cramming too many things into one day, sit some of them
out. (A Wide World of Travel is always mindful of how many experiences most
travelers can reasonably absorb, and plans its tours accordingly.) Don't
overdo!
78.
Check
museum and shopping hours.
It's very disappointing to find things closed
GENERAL HOURS OF OPERATION
Australia 9am-5:30pm, 10am-3pm
(Th) 9am-9pm,
(Sa) 9am-4pm
Brazil
10am-6pm,
10am-4:30pm
Shopping Centers
10am-10pm
China
9am-7pm
9am-4pm,
(Sa)9am-12
Egypt
(TuW, F)
(Sun-Th)
8:30am-2pm,
9:30am-7pm
(Sa) 9:30am-2:30pm
(Sa) 8:30am-lpm,
1:30pm-4pm,
(Th) 8:30am-
(Th) 8:30am-
8:30 pm
12:30pm,
1:30pm-6pm
Hong Kong
(Daily)
10am-3pm,
10:30am-9pm
(Sa) 9:30am-12
Japan
(Daily)
9am-3pm
10am-7pm
New Zealand
(M-Th) 9am-
(MW-F) 9am-
5:30pm,
4:30pm
(F) 9am-9pm,
(Sa) 9am-4pm,
Portugal
9am-lpm, 3pm-7pm;
8:30am-3pm
(Sa) 9am-lpm
Russia
(M-Sa) 10am-8pm
9:30am-lpm,
(Exchange offices)
(Daily) 9am-7pm
Singapore
(M-Sa) 10am-9pm,
10am-3pm,
(Su) llam-8pm
(Sa) 9:30am-
11:30pm
Spain
(M-Sa)
9am-2pm,
9:30am-1:30pm,
(Sa) 9am-lpm,
4:30pm-8pm
closed Sa end of
May -2nd wk Oct
Switzerland
8am-6:30pm,
8:30am-4:30pm
(Sa) 8am-4pm
Turkey
(M-Sa) 10am-
9am-12pm,
7pm
1pm-4:30pm
United Kingdom
(M-Sa) 9am-
9:30am-4:30pm
5:30pm
Note: Days are Monday to Friday unless otherwise noted.
Use this schedule as a general guide
79. Accept
the customs of the country. Being
tolerant is more than good manners it's practical.
If you don't pay heed to the ways of the land you're visiting, you may
end up thwarting your own plans. Remember
that many tropical and Latin countries close everything in the middle of the
day for a long siesta ... that many Spanish restaurants are unprepared for
diners till late in the evening ... that most French restaurants serve the
salad last ... and so on.
80. Be
flexible. Allow time for the
unexpected, as well as for planned exploring.
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81. When
photographing religious sites, certain foreign peoples, or members of certain
native American cultures, be sure to ask permission first.
Many cultures have taboos against taking pictures, or are simply
offended by the notion. At the
same time, some of your subjects may expect a little reward for their
posing-particularly in third world countries.
Take along an instant camera if you have one. Snapping a photo and immediately handing the result to your
model brings incredible smiles as reward.
82. If
you own several camera bodies, three or
four lenses, tripods, etc., don't load yourself down with all of your
equipment, "just in case." You'll only regret being encumbered, and you may lose
precious time going through lengthy customs checks, too.
83. Put a
haze filter over your camera lens and
leave it on. It won't
interfere with your photography and it will keep your expensive lens from
getting damaged while you are traveling.
Carry
a spare set of batteries for your camera.
More pictures are lost through battery failure than any other reason.
Batteries are not always available overseas and often cost three times
more than at home. Similarly,
take more film than you think you need; it's much less expensive at home than
abroad.
84. Beware of airport
x-ray machines. If you don't
have a film-shield bag, hand your film (and camera, if it's loaded) to the
guard for a manual inspection. Film-shield bags can be purchased at any
camera shop.
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85. Choose
the right size ship and cruise line for you.
Cruise lines vary in many ways besides price. Atmosphere is a critical distinguishing factor.
Ask your travel agent or tour company about the general style of the
ship: elegant? casual? oriented towards mature travelers, young singles, or
families? These issues can have a
big impact on your overall enjoyment of the cruise.
Ships
come in four basic sizes: intimate, up to 10,000 gross registered tonnage (grt);
small (between 10,000 and 20,000 grt); medium (between 20,000 and 30,000 grt);
and large (90,000 and over). Obviously,
the larger the ship, the more passengers it holds, which will affect your
possibilities for socializing, service, convenience (waiting in lines for
events, excursions, etc.), and general atmosphere.
Ask about the crew-to-passenger ratio; the higher the ratio, the better
your service is likely to be.
Remember
that larger ships often cannot dock right in the port.
In these cases, your ship will anchor at sea, and ferry you to shore by
tender. These small craft make
frequent round trips, so you can. get back aboard ship at various times. just
ask a crew member for the schedule. The
inconvenience of tendering ashore may be offset by the other advantages of a
large ship. This is a matter of
personal preference.
86. Choose
the right type of cruise for you. If
you're interested in doing in-depth sightseeing, inquire whether your cruise
offers pre- or post-cruise extensions.
These packages usually include a few nights at a hotel in your port
of embarkation or debarkation. It's
a great way to make the most of your sightseeing time, and your package often
includes some touring, meals, or special event.
For more in-depth land exploration, a cruise-tour
fits the bill. Part of your
itinerary will be spent cruising (with several port stops), and then you'll
disembark for a land tour (with overnight stays in hotels).
Alaska is one popular destination for this kind of cruise, which really
offers the best of both worlds.
If
your goal is to enjoy a relaxing getaway where you can simply pamper yourself,
consider a transoceanic crossing, or
a cruise to nowhere. These let you
take full advantage of the "resort at sea" your ship really is.
Expedition cruises focus less on luxury (though amenities are at your disposal), and more
on adventure, education, and exploring. Your
destinations may be more exotic, rugged, out-of-the-way places like the
Galapagos Islands, Antarctica, Patagonia, or the islands of Micronesia.
Generally, your vessel will be smaller in order to navigate in narrower
passages large cruise vessels cannot reach.
Nature is a common focus) and your cruise line may feature naturalists
on board who'll present slide shows, conduct lectures-, and guide shore
expeditions. Other themes may be
archaeology, marine wildlife, or astronomy.
Theme
cruises are offered on vessels both large and small.
Topics can range from health (with well-known physicians aboard to
conduct lectures and workshops) to Big Band music (with well-known musicians
and celebrities aboard to set the rhythm!), to bridge tournaments. There are even Murder Mystery cruises where you can play
sleuth.
Yacht
cruises offer the ultimate in luxury. Personal
service, gourmet dining, elegant surroundings, and easy access to intimate
ports are part of the allure. River
cruises may be aboard barges, steamers, ferries, even old-time Mississippi
paddleboats. Every day brings
another port, and though the activities and amenities are not as luxurious as
those offered on ocean liners, you'll still enjoy fine service.
87. Consider
the trade-offs when choosing your cabin location. Most people prefer outside cabins because they feature
portholes or windows. These are
more expensive than inside cabins. But
be aware that your cabin may look out onto a lifeboat or, if on a promenade
deck, may have windows that passersby can look into.
On the other hand, cabins towards the center of the ship are generally
more stable and less affected by noise and vibrations.
You may wish to consider an inside cabin if you're prone to
seasickness. Diesel-powered ships
may vibrate towards the stem. You
may save some money by requesting a cabin towards the bow, but be prepared for
occasional morning noises (such as the anchor being lowered or raised).
Bear
in mind that your cabin is not a hotel room and will consequently be smaller. Generally, some older ships that were built for long
transoceanic crossings tend to have larger staterooms.
88. Select
the dinner seating that best fits your needs.
There are generally two seatings: early is around 6 p.m., late around 8
p.m. You will sit at an assigned table of 4, 6, or 8 for the duration of your
cruise. Some diners prefer the
late seating because it tends to be less rushed (you won't be whisked out to
make room for the next shift), and it allows a longer day on shore.
On the other hand, early seatings leave you more time for evening
shipboard activities. (You'll be the first in line for top seats at the
shows.) And you won t feel as full at the next meal.
As
soon as you get on board, go to your cabin and look for the confirmation of
your dining assignment. If this
card is not in your cabin, make a beeline for the office of the Chief Dining
Steward or Maitre d'. Even if
you've given your dining preferences to your travel agent, these are simply
requests and not confirmed till you board.
Though you may have indicated that you want a table for 4 perhaps your
table mates are not to your liking.
It's
wise to ask the Maitre d' discreetly if he can change your assignment.
Make these requests as early in the cruise as possible.
89. Find
out about the appropriate attire for your cruise.
"Formal" evenings are gala affairs requiring either tuxedos
or dark suits for men gowns or cocktail dresses for women.
There are usually two formal nights for every seven days at sea.
"Informal" means that men should wear a sports jacket and
tie, and ladies a dress or good pants suit.
"Casual" indicates that open sport shirts for men and slacks
for ladies are permissible. Every
day, you'll receive a bulletin indicating the dress for the evening. At no time should you wear shorts or bathing suits in the
main dining room. (You can sometimes wear shorts there for breakfast.)
90. Consider
proper table etiquette when ordering wine. Wine and other alcoholic beverages are not usually included.
If you order a bottle of wine with dinner, it's customary to offer some
to your table mates. They, in turn, will do the same the next evening.
91. Run
a tab for convenience. If you
use the ship's barber or hairdresser, or purchase optional shore excursions,
photos from the ship's photographer, or drinks from the bar, you can simply
charge them to your cabin on most cruises.
A bill will be presented at the end of your cruise, which you will pay
at the Chief Purser's office.
92. Learn
the correct nautical terms. Here
are a few common ones:
Aft:
near, toward, or at the rear of the vessel.
Amidships: at the middle of the
ship.
Bow: the
forwardmost part of the ship.
Bridge: the navigational
command center of the ship.
Galley: the ship's
kitchen.
Leeward: the side
sheltered from the wind.
Windward: the side
towards which the wind blows.
Starboard: the right side of the ship when facing forward.
Stern:
the rearmost part of the ship.
Tender: a small craft used to
ferry passengers from ship to shore.
Free port: a port where no
customs or duties are levied.
93. Know
how to call home if it becomes necessary.
You can phone home when you're at sea by calling from your cabin or the
ship's radio room using radiotelephone or satellite.
Satellite calls are clearer, but more costly. When in port, you must use local phone facilities.
And you can send a telegram or telex from the Purser's office.
94. Refer
to the information provided by your cruise line for tipping
policies. They vary
from cruise line to cruise line. Some
include tips in your fare, others don't.
Some request a single gratuity at the end of your stay (to be
distributed among all staff), others encourage individual tipping.
In general, you can abide by these rules (rates are per person): Dining
room waiter, $2.50-$3.50 per day; Busboy, $1.50-$2.50 per day; Cabin steward,
$2.50-$3.50 per day. You may also
wish to tip the Maitre d' if he has rendered any particular service.
If a cruise escort is provided, he or she usually
receives $2.50 per day.
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95. Be prepared. As soon as
you leave the plane, have your passport and any receipts for items purchased
abroad handy.
96. Know
the regulations. Generally,
each U.S. citizen may bring in $400 worth of merchandise duty-free ($800 if
you're coming in from Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa); the
next $1,000 is taxed at only 10%. There
are extra allowances for items from certain "favored nations"
(underdeveloped countries) and U.S. possessions.
If you've been out of the country within the past 30 days and already
claimed your $400 exemption, or have been gone for less than 48 hours, you are
allowed to claim only $25 worth of duty-free goods.
The
$400 per person duty-free allowance applies only to items you carry home with
you. All items mailed home are
subject to duty. A package,
however, mailed home and marked "unsolicited gift" with a value
(also indicated) of $50 or less will not be subject to duty.
Appropriate mailing forms are available at foreign post offices.
97. When
you bring valuable imported goods with you on a trip, bring a receipt or other
proof of ownership. Otherwise,
customs agents may try to impose a duty. (Register cameras or appliances
that have serial numbers with customs before you leave.
If your jewelry is insured or appraised, a copy of relevant documents
may be helpful. Even your foreign
designer originals may be suspect; if receipts are missing, ask your dry
cleaner for a descriptive letter.)
98. Don't
bring home fruits, meats, vegetables, or any goods made in Cuba, even if
purchased in another country.
99. Many
items made from endangered wildlife are not permitted in the U.S.:
All
products made from sea turtles
All ivory, both Asian and African
Furs from spotted cats
Furs from marine mammals
Feathers and feather products
from wild birds
All live or stuffed birds from
Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay,
Venezuela, and some Caribbean countries
Most crocodile and caiman leather
Most coral
100.
Cash in your unused traveler's
checks as soon as you can. Although the issuing companies say you may hold on to
them indefinitely, why shouldn't you be earning interest on your money?
Also, if you have a lot of leftover foreign currency, change it back.
If you have only some small bills or coins (usually coins cannot be
exchanged), you might keep them as souvenirs-or give them to a friend who's
going to the same country.
There
is no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can bring into the United
States. However, any amount over
$10,000 must be reported (either when you leave the U.S. or upon return) on
U.S. Customs Form 4790.
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101.
Help ensure that your next trip
is the best ever by giving your travel agent or tour operator your impressions
of this experience. Write
them a letter or fill out any post-trip questionnaire they may leave with you.
Be sure to tell everything about your trip, both good and bad. (A Wide
World of Travel really
appreciates this information and uses it to improve its services for your next
trip, as well as for the travelers who will come after you.)
And here's the best tip we can give you: Travel with an open mind.
When you leave the United States, don't expect to encounter our way of
life again until you return home. Enjoy
all the new sights, people, and sounds around you. Sample the food, make a stab at the language, ask questions,
smile a lot, and you will come home a more knowledgeable person with a
lifetime of happy memories.
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Start an exercise regimen several weeks
before your trip. Carrying
suitcases, prolonged sitting or standing, sleeping in unfamiliar beds, and
other activities that you're not accustomed to can aggravate aches and pains.
Build your flexibility and stamina gradually -before
you leave. Walking and stretching
exercises will help you get ready. You'll
probably find it so enjoyable that it will become part of your lifestyle.
0
Try to get as much sleep as
possible before you leave.
0 Bring sunglasses
that deflect 100% of ultraviolet rays. You
also may want to bring eye drops for long flights, bright days, and hot/dry
environments.
0 Before you leave, have
your feet tested for orthotic inserts in your shoes. Once
you have them, you won't believe you ever lived without them!
Sports stores also sell insoles for running shoes that can make any
shoe more comfortable. Look for a
good fit and firm arch support.
ON
THE PLANE
Your
airline flight is often the most tiring part of your trip, and it can leave
you feeling stiff and disoriented. Here
are a few suggestions to help you feel much better when you arrive at your
destination.
Move
around as much as possible. Walk
the aisles frequently. Movement
minimizes swollen feet and ankles. Also,
while you're sitting, get your feet up on a small travel bag to keep the edge
of the seat from cutting off the circulation in your legs.
Put
a cushion behind the small of your back.
Use the airline cushion, or even better, bring your own roll-shaped
cushion.
Avoid
falling asleep with your head cocked to one side, and regularly exercise your
neck muscles. Sitting erect, but
relaxed, VERY SLOWLY lower your head until it comes as close to resting on
your chest as is comfortable. Hold
for a count of five, then very slowly and smoothly raise it to the upright
position. Repeat twice.
Then turn your head VERY SLOWLY to each side, three times in each
direction. Now tilt your head
slowly to one shoulder, leading with the ear.
Hold for a few seconds. Repeat
three times each side.
Loosen
your shoulder muscles. Shrug and
hold the shrug for a count of five, then slowly and smoothly move your
shoulders back and down, as if trying to make
Relieve
facial tension. This can help you
avoid headaches, but you may want to do this one in the lavatory or while the
plane is dark! Open your mouth as
wide as you can, letting your tongue hang out.
At the same time open your eyes as wide as possible.
Relax and repeat twice.
Stimulate
your abdominal and buttock muscles. Sitting
tall, contract abdominals and count to four slowly; then release slowly in
four counts. Your lower back will
tend to flatten or slightly round into the chair back.
Repeat five times. Now
contract buttocks slowly in four counts, then release in four counts.
Repeat five times.
Exercise
your feet. Sit with your feet
flat on the floor, then lift your heels 10 times, keeping your toes on the
floor. Now reverse, lifting your
toes 10 times, while keeping your heels on the floor.
Move
your foot around in a circular motion from the ankle, 5 times in each
direction. Repeat with the other
foot. You can also try moving
your legs up and down, as if you were walking, with the toes pointed. Take 10 “steps."
Frequently
flex your hands. Hands that
aren’t busy with the usual activities of home need to be kept flexible. Hold your arms out in front of you and spread the fingers as
wide as you can for a count of 5, then relax.
Then make a fist and hold tightly for a count of 5, then relax.
Repeat both steps. Now, rotate your wrists 5-10 times clockwise and
counterclockwise. Give your hands
a gentle shake.
Drink
plenty of fluids. At least four
ounces of water per hour of flight is recommended.
And avoid alcohol, which will accelerate dehydration.
Also, to counter the effect of the dry airplane air, use a moisturizer
on your face and hands. Or spray
your face often with water from an atomizer bottle.
If
you suffer from earaches while flying, try this: A half-hour to 45 minutes
before takeoff, take an antihistamine or decongestant. just before takeoff,
"pop" your ears by holding your nose shut, closing your mouth, and
attempting to blow air through your nostrils.
This helps to clear the eustachian tube, which often becomes swollen
and blocked when cabin pressure changes.
While in flight you should swallow frequently, chew gum or candy, and
"pop" your ears frequently when the pressure builds.
It's especially important to take these precautions if you feel a cold
coming on-if the tubes are blocked, fluids can become trapped, causing painful
ear infections.
If
you suffer from jet lag, you might try the "Feast-Fast jet Lag Diet"
developed at a U.S. Department of Energy lab.
For details send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Antijet Lag
Diet, Office of Public Affairs, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass
Ave., Argonne, IL 60439 (tel) 630-252-5575; or consult your local bookstore for
Overcoming jet Lag.
ON YOUR CRUISE
SHIP
Maintain your normal exercise regimen as
much as possible. If you
already work out when you're home, try to keep it up while you travel, even if
it's modified for convenience. Most
cruise ships have fitness facilities. Always
warm up with rhythmic limbering exercises before beginning an intense
work-out; then cool down after intense exercise to lower your heart rate
gradually. Also, stretch after
you exercise to prevent muscles from tightening and becoming painful the next
day. Of course, it's also
important to wear proper shoes for exercising.
If you're in good shape, take advantage of sightseeing opportunities to
burn calories. Climbing
to the top of a cathedral or hill can be marvelous exercise.
Remember to lean forward when heading uphill, and don't speed up on the
way- down, which is harder on the joints.
On cruise ships, you can walk on the promenade deck to get some
exercise. Swing your arms to burn
more calories and improve your stride.
Use the availability of exercise facilities on your cruise ship to get
started on a fitness program. If
you've been putting off beginning a regular exercise program, your trip may
give you an -ideal opportunity to start one that you can continue when you get
home. The fitness director on
your cruise ship can help you design a personal routine.
And what could be more convenient while you're cruising from one place
to another? However, avoid
aerobics on cruise ships; the ship's movement can cause injury. And before you leave, be sure to consult your personal
physician for any exercise instructions that may apply to you specifically.
Climb the stairs instead of using the elevator.
Avoid prolonged sitting or standing.
If
you're waiting in line for any length of time, have someone save your place
and walk purposely to a nearby spot and back.
Do simple exercises in your room or cabin,
such as those described earlier for the plane.
Here are a few others:
After
a day of standing and walking, here's a way to relieve sore calves and prevent
shin splints. Sit on a bed or the
floor with legs straight out in front of you and toes pointing up.
Hold the ends of a bath towel in your hands and loop around the ball of
one foot. Pull towards you gently
and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat
five times for each foot.
Tense
shoulder muscles can make you feel more tired than you are.
To relax and condition them, stand with your arms straight out in front
of you with your palms down. Bend
the elbows as you move your arms back, as though trying to make your shoulder blades touch.
Straighten arms and repeat 5 times.
Don't skip meals. Sightseeing
takes energy! You can still economize by buying, say, bread, cheese, and fruit
and enjoying a picnic in a park instead of going to a restaurant; it's a great
way to get a flavor of local life.
Don't overdo it at mealtimes! You'll
be offered a seemingly endless array of courses at meal times, and you can
order as many as you wish. Still,
there's hope for the health conscious. Most
cruise lines offer low-cal, low-cholesterol, and low-salt choices on their
menus, and many of the meal plans are approved by organizations like the
American Heart Association.
Don't be afraid to ask how something is prepared.
It's one thing to be adventurous when trying new
delicacies in a foreign land - in fact, we encourage you to give them a try!
But temper that with a little caution to avoid overdoing very rich
foods. If language is a problem,
ask your program director to teach you a few key phrases, such as "no
salt" or "no butter" and how to identify "broiled"
and "steamed" items on a menu.
Be aware of what you eat. Steer
clear of salads and foods that have been left out in the sun.
Also, avoid dairy products where refrigeration is suspect.
A little caution can help prevent diarrhea and other internal
distresses common to travelers.
Eat fruits and vegetables whenever possible. This
can help you avoid constipation. You
may also want to try carrying fiber supplements.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially in the tropics or during a day of
vigorous walking or exercise. Mild
dehydration, resulting from excessive perspiration, can cause fatigue. The best fluids are fruit juices, bottled water, and soft
drinks. Bring two small water
bottles with you everywhere! (And while sightseeing, never pass up a chance to
use the bathroom-even if you think you don't need to at the time.)
In
certain countries you must never drink tap water or any drink with ice in it.
This means taking precautions not to swallow any water during your
shower, and using purified water even for brushing your teeth.
Most U.S. drugstores sell water purification tablets.
When dining out, always order mineral water, and be sure you see the
waiter open the bottle in front of you. (Your Wide World of Travel agent will
give you reliable advice.)
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Travel Agent: A retailer who sells independent travel or travel packages created by
tour operators or wholesalers. Generally,
you do not pay for a travel agent's services, which are covered by commissions
from hotels, airlines, and wholesalers on packaged tours.
Tour operator or wholesaler: Typically, the creator of the travel packages sold
through travel agents or other organizers. (A Wide World of Travel
is a tour operator that makes its vacations available directly to the
traveler - without using middlemen.)
F.I.T.: Foreign
Independent Travel. An individual
trip arranged specifically for you by a
Escorted tour: A tour which is accompanied throughout by the same tour director or tour
escort, who stays in the same hotels as the tour members and is available to
them throughout the tour for advice and, planning.
Hosted tour: A tour that uses the services of different local agents or hosts in each
major destination for a limited time period per day, to assist tour members
with optional sightseeing and independent plans.
Tour director vs. local guide/agent: A tour director is generally employed by your
travel company and will have no other passengers to attend to other than those
traveling with your company. (A Wide World of Travel uses tour operators that
are in this category.) A local guide or agent may be subcontracted by your
company or one of its agents. He
or she may have other clients to attend to sometimes from other countries.
If your groups are mixed for excursions or social activities, events
may be conducted in several languages.
All-inclusive: A tour that includes
transportation, hotels, most meals, a full-time tour director, sightseeing,
transfers, most gratuities-almost all of the costs of your travel except
personal expenses (laundry, extra beverages, personal tips).
Meal plans: European Plan (EP) and Bed
and Breakfast (B&B) usually include continental breakfast.
American Plan includes three meals a day; Modified American Plan (MAP)
includes two meals a day. Table
d'hote: a fixed-price menu with limited choice.
Outside the United States, coffee or tea is rarely included with meals
other than breakfast and must be paid for separately.
Check the tour conditions in your brochures to see if they are
included.
Continental breakfast: Coffee, plus rolls and or bread with jam.
No juice. American
breakfast, English breakfast, Dutch breakfast, etc., are generally full
breakfasts with eggs, juice, meats, cheese, and so on, according to the
customs of the country.
Taxes, service charges, and gratuities:
Outside the United States, most hotels and restaurants, by government order,
must charge 10% to 15% taxes on board and lodging.
Most then also add a 10% to 15% service charge for tips to staff. When service is included, waiters and other service personnel
also expect an additional tip of approximately 3 % (use our "Tipping
Guide" on page 31).
Hotel categories: Deluxe, first-class (superior or standard), moderate, and tourist class
are generally the designations used, but the standards vary greatly from
country to country. (You can consult government tourist offices for official
classifications, but keep in mind the variations.) A hotel listed as
"deluxe" by one tour operator may receive only a "first class"
listing by another. It's wise to
depend on the reputation of the tour operator for clarity. (A Wide World of
Travel uses the Official Hotel and Resort Guide classification.)
Airfares: Promotional airfares,
generally the lowest fares available at any particular time, go under many
acronyms such as APEX (Advance Purchase Excursion Fare) or promotional names
such as Visit Italy Fare or Senior Citizen Fare. Depend on your -tour operator to obtain the lowest
promotional fare for you at the time of your departure.
He has specialists on staff who keep abreast of the almost daily
changes in airfare regulations.
Direct flight: A direct flight is one that requires no change of plane prior to
reaching your destination. Though
your flight may stop to pick up passengers in another city, no connecting
flight will be required.
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Know Before You Go. A
booklet on customs regulations is available free from the U.S. Customs
Service, Box 7407, Washington, DC 20044, (tel) 202-927-6724.
Travelers' Tips on Bringing Food, Plant, and Animal Products into the
United States.
From
the U.S. Department of Agriculture,
Health Information for International Travel. For price information and orders, contact the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, (tel)
202-512-1800, or call the International Traveler's Hotline of the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention, (tel) 404-332-4559.
Travel Advisories. State Department's
Citizen's Emergency Center, (tel) 202-647-5225.
Background Notes. These brief pamphlets
offer facts on the culture, geography, people, history, government, economy,
and political conditions of more than 170 different countries.
For price information and orders, contact the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, (tel)
202-512-1800.
WEIGHTS
AND MEASURES
To Convert Into
Multiply
Centimeters Inches
0.394
Inches
Centimeters 2.540
Feet Meters 0.305
Meters Feet
3.281
U.S.
gallons Liters
3.785
Liters
U.S. gallons 0.264
Grams Ounces 0.035
Ounces Grams 28.350
Miles Kilometers 1.609
Kilometers Miles
0.621
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FOR THE WEATHER WATCHER
For the weather watcher may we suggest a website at www.internationalweather.com or 900-WEATHER. For domestic travel try www.weather.com.
NOTE: All of the information provided here can be reproduced without permission. The information was correct at the time of printing and some of the contents may have changed since then...so if there are telephone numbers that have changed, rules and conditions that have changed, etc. we certainly do apologize. We will make every attempt to keep this updated. More Tips will be added over time. Thank You.