When packing...
Pack light - upon returning home, you will see all of those shoes and other clothing you didn't wear but dragged around 4 countries! - and bring dark colored clothing with you on your travels. We also suggest putting a fabric softener in your luggage - it will keep your clothing smelling fresh. Remove any previous destination tags from luggage and place a red stripe around the handles - it will help you recognize your luggage when it is on the carousel. Spend some money on a luggage cart - save you wear and tear on your suitcases, as well as, your body!

Carry-on list...
Basic toiletries, books/magazines, cassette tapes, cassette player with headphone, camera, extra film, inflatable pillow, luggage keys, make up, medications, moist towelettes, reading glasses, bottled water, sun glasses, sweater, travel organizer, warm socks or slippers.

48 hours before your flight, make 2 important phone calls. First, call the airline to confirm your flight, and second, call the car company to confirm your pick up.

On the plane...
Try to avoid the front row which is normally kept aside for babies. The back row doesn't recline as much, so those of you requiring more leg room, should not sit there. Also, it is wise not to sit near the toilet nor next to the gallery, where the food is prepared. If the plane is NOT full, put your sweater/coat on a better available seat, and once the flight has begun, move to that seat.

Weather...
Check out the weather in your destination city...pack and dress appropriately.

Currency...
Shop around for the best currency rate available...go to 2-3 different exchange places. Avoid changing money from "street dealers" and at airports, they usually have a higher rate. It is best to exchange a small amount of money at a time, and try to use your credit cards as often as possible.

Traveling with kids???
It's a good idea to have surprises and toys for them.

When booking transportation to and from the airport, always take a confirmation number. If the company does not have "confirmation numbers", it usually indicates that they are not computerized, and hence, they may lose your reservations. If this is the case, don't choose them and go with another outfit.

Avoiding jet lag...
Before getting on the plane, set your watch to the time of your destination city. This will get your biological clock working correctly.

Safety matters...
For travel assistance, please call 202-647-5225, 24 hours a day, or go to the US State Department website at travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html

Passport...
In recent years, warning of passport theft has been issued. Always know where your passport is and it is a good idea to make 3 copies of it - one in your carry-on, one in your suitcase, and one in your hotel safe. Should you lose your passport, notify the local authorities and the nearest US embassy. If you return to the US without a passport or with an expired passport, you will be subject to a passport waiver fee of $80. It is recommended to make copies of all other documents (driver's license, medical card, airline tickets, etc.) and keep them with your passport copy. Should you find yourself in any type of difficulty abroad, contact the US consulate office.

Traveling alone...
Keep a low profile when traveling alone. Dress and behave conservatively, avoid flashy dress, jewelry, luggage, rental cars, or anything that will draw attention to you. Women should carry bags with the strap across the chest and the purse in front of you...not behind or to the side. Always act purposely as you walk about the town. Don't look or act like a victim. Your hotel concierge is your best friend, get his/her advice on the neighborhoods you are visiting.

Hotel safety...
Keep your hotel door locked at all times. Read the safety and fire instructions pertaining to the hotel you are staying at. Don't leave a "please clean this room" sign on the doorknob...this invites thieves. Instead, call the housekeeping department and let them know that your room is ready for cleaning. Avoid leaving personal/valuable items in your room...place them in the hotel safe.

Medical help...
Some medical resources can be found online at www.tripprep.com/clinics/clinics.html You can also call the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers at 716-754-4883. They provide a network of doctors in Europe and North America. These doctors are on call 24 hours to members at a reasonable fee. Most major credit cards provide a network of doctors as well.