What type of research should
I do before I travel?
- Do some research, learn as much as you can about
your destination.
- Check to see what type of weather the area has
so you can plan accordingly.
- Check to see what type of paperwork and documentation
you will need to travel.
- Find out what type of diseases are common to the
area you¡¯ll be visiting and take actions to prevent
your exposure to those diseases.
- Check your own medical coverage to see what type
of coverage you¡¯ll have when away from home. Consider
purchasing trip insurance.
- If you plan on driving, get your car ready and
investigate the local road conditions, laws and other
driving requirements.
- Do some research about the costs of local items
so you can set your budget. Don't forget to budget
for taxes and tipping. Many governments charge high
taxes for travel related services.
Check the dates of local major holidays or festivals,
since services may be limited on those dates
What additional research should
I do when planning foreign travel?
- Find out if you will need a passport to enter the
country. Make sure your passport is up to date and
valid. Some countries will not let you in if your
passport will expire within six months of your return
home, extend it, if you are close to expiration.
- Find out if you will need any visas to enter the
country.
- Check with the U.S. State Department concerning
safety warnings for U.S. tourists at your destination.
- Find out what types of vaccinations you will need
to enter the country, there may also be medications
you¡¯ll need to take before, during and even after
your trip.
- Check the financial section of your newspaper,
they usually post exchange rates and checking in advance
can give you an idea of how much you¡¯ll need to budget.
- Do some research with U.S. Customs to find out
what you can take with you and what you may bring
back.
- Build some basic language skills in the local language.
Most of the world uses the metric system, so try to become
familiar with this system. 1 kilometer = .62 miles so
100 kilometers per hour = 62 miles per hour. |
