Tips for the 'Scaredy -cat' traveler

Friday, May 26, 2006

I recently recalled a great time in my college years where I helped introduce friends of mine to the adventures of traveling in their own country. It made me remember that there are a lot of people who have never traveled beyond their own borders. It inspired me to put forth a few tips for the timid or 'scared-cat' traveler. So here goes.

2) Plan your trip. It doesn't matter if you are traveling to visit a town near you or going to another country. A planned trip will ensure you have a good time without the worries. Places like Triple A (Automobile Association of America), can help you plan your trips.

3) Learn a little bit about where you are going. When planning a trip consider the following things, travel,accommodation, food, excursions, souvenirs, and last but not least, emergency cash for the unforeseen. Plan per person and you will have a better idea of the cost and what you will need to have an enjoyable trip.

4) Be flexible in your plans. I know it sounds like a contradiction to rule #1. Plans don't always go the way you want and sometimes the elements, natural and human can bring about unforeseen problems. Learn to work around the inconvenience.

5) Protect yourself and your belongings. Make sure you make copies of all your important travel documents, credit cards and other vital contact information and leave it at home with someone you trust. Check to see if your hotel has a safe and keep all you documents and valuables locked up.

6) Inform your credit card company that you are traveling and will be using your card elsewhere so that you do not have problems using your card. Carry unsigned travelers checks. Safer than cash but accepted almost everywhere.

7) Check with the local staff for safe places to visit if you want a night out on the town. They know where to send you and unless you know a native* who can escort you around, then stick to the ones recommended by your hotel or tour guide.

These are just a few of the things that can make traveling safe but fun. I hope if you haven't traveled before or know someone who hasn't then you will use these guidelines to help you start your travel adventures.

Until next time - happy travels.

*P.S. - when I say native, I mean someone authorized to take you on tours who is a native of the place you are visiting OR someone you have know for more than a few days. Ladies especially please be careful about trusting strangers. The rule is the same no matter where you live, don't trust strangers.

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Friday, May 26, 2006

Tips for the 'Scaredy -cat' traveler

I recently recalled a great time in my college years where I helped introduce friends of mine to the adventures of traveling in their own country. It made me remember that there are a lot of people who have never traveled beyond their own borders. It inspired me to put forth a few tips for the timid or 'scared-cat' traveler. So here goes.

2) Plan your trip. It doesn't matter if you are traveling to visit a town near you or going to another country. A planned trip will ensure you have a good time without the worries. Places like Triple A (Automobile Association of America), can help you plan your trips.

3) Learn a little bit about where you are going. When planning a trip consider the following things, travel,accommodation, food, excursions, souvenirs, and last but not least, emergency cash for the unforeseen. Plan per person and you will have a better idea of the cost and what you will need to have an enjoyable trip.

4) Be flexible in your plans. I know it sounds like a contradiction to rule #1. Plans don't always go the way you want and sometimes the elements, natural and human can bring about unforeseen problems. Learn to work around the inconvenience.

5) Protect yourself and your belongings. Make sure you make copies of all your important travel documents, credit cards and other vital contact information and leave it at home with someone you trust. Check to see if your hotel has a safe and keep all you documents and valuables locked up.

6) Inform your credit card company that you are traveling and will be using your card elsewhere so that you do not have problems using your card. Carry unsigned travelers checks. Safer than cash but accepted almost everywhere.

7) Check with the local staff for safe places to visit if you want a night out on the town. They know where to send you and unless you know a native* who can escort you around, then stick to the ones recommended by your hotel or tour guide.

These are just a few of the things that can make traveling safe but fun. I hope if you haven't traveled before or know someone who hasn't then you will use these guidelines to help you start your travel adventures.

Until next time - happy travels.

*P.S. - when I say native, I mean someone authorized to take you on tours who is a native of the place you are visiting OR someone you have know for more than a few days. Ladies especially please be careful about trusting strangers. The rule is the same no matter where you live, don't trust strangers.

0 comments: