Comments on: 8 Tips to Stress-Free International Travel

By: Syndi Seid

Syndi Seid — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 20:50:19 +0000

Here’s a MUST READ resource that is absolutely free, by simply downloading it online at the below URL.

“World Citizen’s Guide… Practical Ideas for American Business Executives traveling abroad.”

http://worldcitizensguide.org/pressDownloads/BDA.WCG%20BusinessGuide.pdf

In fact, I’m editing the blog to include this in the body of the article.

By: Syndi Seid

Syndi Seid — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:58:00 +0000

John’s comment about keeping local currency is a great idea. I do it myself for the same reason. However, what if you don’t want to keep any local currency? Here’s a brilliant tip from a protocol colleague, Chris Young, who suggests: Upon checking out of the hotel. pay down your final bill with as much cash as you have left and then have the balance of the bill charged to your credit card. Of course, keep enough local currency for the taxi ride to the airport and perhaps a drink or snack.

By: Elaine Masters, RYT

Elaine Masters, RYT — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 02:38:03 +0000

Hi, Great information. It’s been years since I’ve taken an international trip over 2 weeks long – but many of your suggestions are helpful for even the shorter frequent flier journeys. I stretch often through out my long flights and have put together a tips booklet of moves and breathing techniques that truly make a difference. It’s wonderful to arrive feeling calm and relaxed instead of dull headed and stiff.
Happy travels,
Elaine

By: John Muir

John Muir — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:35:16 +0000

Syndi,

One more thought: upon leaving the foreign country, if I think there is a chance I will return, I always keep a small amount of their currency (enough for transportation from the airport to my hotel) because the airport is usually the worst place to converts your dollars. Then I keep the currency in a special wallet along with my passport.

John

By: Jo Lynne Lockley

Jo Lynne Lockley — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:30:56 +0000

Thanks Syndi,

Off to see about a house in Switzerland on Tuesday, then down to the Adriatic.

Here a couple more: Second folder of travel documents and copies in a pocket in the suitcase. For Women small handbag that can be stuffed into expandable carry on, since baggage and carry on allowances vary even, it seems, within the same airline company or flight group.
Consider an electronic reader if traveling more often.
Small flat notebook and pen at all times.
Put copy of document copies on electronic reader, PDA or Smart phone. (Apps such as “Documents to Go” allow storage, retrieval and editing of basic office applications.)
Send yourself all travel documents and itineraries as attachments, which you can then download from your GMail, Outlook, Hotmail etc account wherever you find a computer.
Use plastic “Ties” to secure suitcase closures and tame electronic cables.
Use baggies for meds, cables and anything else that gets in the way.
Pack a Swiss army knife, safety pins, scissors, needle and thread kit, bandaids.
TAke at least two electric converters with you. They always cost more there and are often hard to find.
Unlock your cell phone and get a foreign Sym (I have a dedicated travel phone) rather than using your American carrier. The price difference is great.

By: John Muir

John Muir — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:25:16 +0000

Syndi,

I just check “foreign voltage adapter kit” on Google, and Amazon.com has the exact kit that I use for $18.99

Cheers,
John

By: John Muir

John Muir — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:20:07 +0000

Hi Syndi,

I enjoyed reading your 8 tips for foreign travel. I always include a “foreign voltage adapter kit” that includes a wattage converter and 5 adapters that will work in any country. I got mine at a flea market but I once purchased a set at Radio Shack

Cheers,

John