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International Travel Tips
Traveling overseas can put you in unfamiliar territory. There are lots of book, articles and websites packed with information about
how International traveling. Most of us don't have time to digest several books full of information, especially before a big trip. That's
why we've created the International Travel Top 10 List. Print this out and throw it in your briefcase or backpack. You'll find it as an
easy way to learn how to maximize the effectiveness of your travels.
- Safety First
When visiting a new country it is important to understand the good and bad parts of town. This does not mean that you should find these through
a process of trial and error. Search on sites like Yahoo Travel and read user comments. Other travelers share their experiences online and
you can learn a lot about how to stay safe by learning more from them. Ask the concierge at your hotel if there are any areas you should stay-away
from. By taking this simple precaution you are doing more than 95% of all international travelers to protect your safety.
- Global Travel Service
It's important to have someone to call if something goes wrong while you are overseas. Should you become sick or injured, getting to a hospital
where they speak your native language could be a matter of life and death. That's why it is absolutely essential that you have some kind of global
travel service. Many credit card companies offer this with their cards. One of the top providers is American Express which offers emergency travel
medical, cash, and other benefits while abroad. You shouldn't pay a fortune for this but a few hundred dollars a year could go a long way towards
your own piece of mind.
- Luggage and International Travel
One of the most frequently overlooked facets of International travel is luggage requirements. Each country has a different set of rules for what size and
weight luggage can be brought onto their airplanes. Australia for example has a weight limit much lower than in the U.S. which may force you to do some
last minute bag rebalancing while trying to make your flight. Take the time to understand the luggage requirements of each country you visit. It will only
take ten minutes to do the research but could make the difference between making your flight or not later on.
- International Travel Health Insurance
Make sure you are covered by either your own insurance or an international provider. You can even purchase insurance just for a single trip. You should have
insurance on-top of a Global Travel Service even if some form of insurance is already incorporated within the service. While this might cost you $30-$40 extra
it is well worth it should an accident happen and your Global Travel Service not be able to provide the resources you need.
- Airport Lounges
Check to see if any of the credit cards you own give you access to any airport lounges. American Express Platinum cards give members access to American Airlines,
Continental, and Delta lounges. These lounges are essential for international travel where you oftentimes have long wait times in the airport. A lounge makes your
time at the airport enjoyable with free food, hot and cold drinks, televisions, and oftentimes Internet or computer access. Just getting away from the hustle and
bustle of the airport terminal is soothing amidst the rush of a long trip.
- Travel with one airline
If you travel internationally frequently you'll want to stick with the same airline for each trip. As a member of an airline rewards program you can build miles
very quickly with international flights. These miles will oftentimes give you access to free upgrades, flights, and even lounge memberships. You will enjoy priority
boarding on your flights as well as perks for passengers traveling with you from airlines like United. By sticking to just one airline all of your miles go towards
one account so you can get higher status quicker.
- Food
With food there is one golden rule. Go ahead and try new things, but everything in moderation. It can be tempting to emerge yourself in the new country immediately
by trying food you have never had before. There is nothing wrong with this, but make sure that you don't go overboard. It will take your body to get used to the new
bacteria in the foods you eat. Try to eat new food along with some comfort food that you know your stomach will be happy with.
- Hotels - Location, Location, Location
This should obvious but it's amazing how many travelers overlook this. When you are traveling most of your time is spend outside of your hotel. This is why you'll want
to make sure your hotel pick is in a great location. Maybe you'll have to get a 3 instead of 4 star hotel but the great location will more than make-up for the hotel.
If you have just one week a year to live somewhere why live in a mediocre neighborhood?
- Guard your Passport
Your passport is very valuable to thieves. Remember that not everyone is just after your wallet. Keep a careful eye on your passport as it is much easier to get money
on a trip than replace a passport.
- Understand the Customs
In some cultures it is custom to give those you visit a small (or large) gift upon arrival. Make sure you understand the customs of the region that you visit. This sometimes
small thought can go a long way towards showing your respect for someone's country and culture. You can also make sure that you don't accidentally offend anyone by making
a comment that might be culturally inappropriate.
Morgan Linton
Podcaster - Traveling Man Podcast
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