Redefine News

Whenever you arrive in any country, whether it be by boat, plane or whatever you are vulnerable. You have all your cash, cards, documents and anything else valuable on you right at that moment. It is even worse if you have never been there before and look like you haven't, there are always people who are willing to "help". Every precaution you take will help to avoid any potential problems. After all you do not want someone to "help" themselves to your belongings, when you have just arrived. Here are a few tips that should help.

Before leaving for your trip, try to get some prior information as to the rough layout of the airport where you will be arriving. This will help, to have a vague sense of where you should be going and where the taxis are located etc.

Whenever possible, especially in certain countries we recommend taking either the airport limousine, or a hotel pick up.

Never take a taxi that seems just to be hanging around, offering its services when there is a taxi queue available.

Try to keep your wallet and valuables safely secured in a handbag or in one of your hand luggage.

Change some money into the local currency before you depart. This gives you one less thing to worry about, and will stop you from pulling a large amount of money out at the airport arrivals.

Keep a small amount of this local currency, easily accessible in a pocket or something, and away from the majority of your well earned money. You will need sufficient for the ride into town, a tip (perhaps) and a little for unforeseen needs like toll ways or a bottle of water.

If you have not been able to find anything out about the airport that you are visiting then ask one of the airline staff, or the government tourism booth (if they have one at the airport) for some assistance, or tips on the best way of travelling.

Most countries really are very safe, but in others it is really very advisable to take to take as many precautions as possible. No matter what, the most important is that you have a great holiday.

Hotels, especially of the four and five star category are normally extremely safe; providing you with a safe in the room and at the reception area, security guards hiding around the place, and cameras that can be as much your friend as your enemy . However still things do occasionally disappear, sometimes without the owner ever knowing that they have gone.So here are a few tips to avoid your valued possessions from taking a walk:

If the hotel has an in room safe use it and keep all your valuables in there. However, if the safe is electronic, wipe the touch keys down before operating it with a damp cloth, and then dry it before entering your secret code. Try to do this every time you use the safe.

Also after you have keyed in your code and closed the door firmly locked on the safe. Press all the other keys /numbers that do not make up your code, and press them firmly. Doing this may set off a small alarm from the safe but it stops quickly and no one will pay any attention (!!).

The reason to do this is because certain hotels have caught their own hotel staff placing, a light oil residue or powder on to the touch keys that shows them when using a certain light what numbers were pressed. They were managing to open the safe, and one very clever thief was taking only 1 or 2 US$ from each room. Would you have noticed ? It is not a lot but in a 400 or 500 room hotel the guy was doing quite well for himself.

Never leave valuables in soft/material bags with pockets even if they are padlocked like Alcatrass. This avoids any potential of somebody simply splitting a seam to a pocket with a knife and removing select contents. This has happened to one of our friends and he never even noticed until he went into the and bag and pocket a while later.
This should also apply to luggage that you check into the airplane.

Never get drunk and invite a stranger to your room. This seems funny, indeed, but better safe than sorry.

Backpacking is an enjoyable way to experience nature and access remote terrain. The folks at Camp Trails offer the following tips to help you get started:

Study a map or guide to know the terrain you'll be hiking and estimate the time it will take to arrive at your destination. Pad your estimates with extra time to account for delays.

Obtain necessary permits and reserve campsites in advance, and check local regulations to avoid fines. Know the area's weather patterns and accommodate for time of year. Always be prepared for the worst weather.

Remember, it's very easy to perspire, even in the winter, so dress appropriately in layers and be prepared for changing conditions, temperature changes at higher altitudes, and evenings. Avoid wearing jeans or cotton clothing. Wear polypropylene, wool or other breathable materials that wick moisture away and dry quickly.

Always pack rain gear.

Get to know your gear before heading out. Seam-seal the tent and familiarize yourself with its design and set-up. Learn how to operate your stove so you're not caught in the dark or the rain trying to figure it out. Know what you can carry and how long you can carry it without straining yourself. The pack shouldn't weigh more than 25 percent of your weight, so take only what you need.

Camping: Anytime of Year in All Kinds of Weather

Often thought to be reserved for summer, camping is fast becoming a year-round activity. And while camping trips are planned with hopes of good weather, severe weather always is a possibility, but it doesn’t have to diminish the enjoyment of camping. To make the most of the camping experience, it’s important to consider the weather before packing up the camper or travel trailer.

There’s no avoiding the weather when camping. “The United States has the most extreme weather conditions in the world, second only to China,” says Susan Weaver, of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service. “Weather can change quickly and is very specific to each area.”

Lightning Does Strike Twice

Severe weather can occur anytime of year and often with little warning. According to NOAA, lightning is one of the most underrated severe weather hazards because it usually claims one or two victims at a time and does not cause mass destruction.

“You are in danger of lightning if you can hear thunder,” states Weaver. “Seek shelter inside an enclosed structure; if that is not possible squat low to the ground, with your feet close together and your head between your knees.” Maintain minimal contact with the ground and do not lie flat.

It’s a Twister...

In the Southern states, peak tornado season is March through May. Northern states are more likely to be hit with tornadoes during the summer. People know that during a tornado warning they should move to an interior room with no windows, or in a basement. When camping, that’s not a viable option. Experts suggest retreating to a ditch or other low area, get as low to the ground as possible and cover your head from possible debris. “Do not seek shelter under an overpass; they act as wind tunnels during a tornado,” Weaver warns.

Author Brad Herzog and wife Amy of Pacific Grove, Calif., have been camping for nearly eight years. During their first trip, Brad authored “States of Mind,” a book, which chronicles their experience. One night, while camping in Mississippi, they encountered severe weather. “There were late-night tornado warnings and we were able to track the warnings by keeping tuned to a local station,” Herzog explains. They were aware of the warnings in advance and took precautions in case of a tornado strike. Fortunately the storm passed without any tornados touching down.

Rain, Rain Go Away

Floods and flash floods also are serious threats to campers. “Most people underestimate the threat of water,” Weaver explains. “Never attempt to drive through standing water. It only takes 18 to 24 inches to float most vehicles.” According to Weaver, canyons are particularly prone to flash floods. She recommends not only paying attention to the weather around you but also upstream. If flooding is a possibility in your camp area, immediately move to higher ground.

Running Hot and Cold

Not only should campers remain cognizant of possible severe weather; they also need to be mindful of extreme temperatures or sudden climate shifts. “Extremely cold temperatures and winds rob heat from the body,” says Weaver. This, increases your risk for hypothermia and frostbite. When camping in the winter, pack extra blankets, food and water to reduce these risks.

Be Prepared

It takes planning to handle any weather Mother Nature might throw at your camping trip. Simply following some basic tips can lead to a much more enjoyable camping experience.

• Check the weather before you leave home. A variety of Web sites offer weather forecasts seven days in advance. NOAA’s Web site can be found at www.weather.gov.
• Carry a weather radio at all times. Available at most electronics stores, a weather radio can be programmed to a specific location and provide life-saving notification of a fast-developing storm.
• Talk to your camping group and develop a contingency plan should bad weather arise.

When it comes to providing peace of mind and safety while camping, nothing rivals a reliable power source. Onan, a leader in power generation products, recently introduced a generator designed specifically for the smaller, towable RVs. Onan’s Camp Power is the first installed generator to provide power to the towable RVs so popular with millions of campers. Now when RVers are caught in severe weather, they can have the electricity they need to operate communication devices to monitor the storm and signal for help if necessary.

Brad Herzog knows how reassuring it is to have reliable power with you when the weather turns bad. “When the weather is iffy, it’s nice to be able to tune into a news station to know what’s up.” Since weather can change quickly, it is important to constantly keep track of it while camping.

In addition to powering weather devices for travelers, generators can make camping more comfortable by supplying power to air conditioners to cool the RV or run heaters on cold days.

And rain won’t put a damper on campfire cooking for campers with Camp Power installed towable. A generator can power almost any electrical kitchen appliance. Travelers can cook meals in the microwave or on an electric grill when the weather doesn’t allow them to build a campfire.

Turning Lemons into Lemonade

Despite all your preparations, sometimes the weather simply won’t cooperate with your outdoor plans. But that doesn’t have to ruin the camping experience.

Herzog recalls when he and his wife were traveling through Kansas and they encountered severe storms. “Other people began to pull their cars over and panic,” Herzog explains. “We pulled over to the side of the road made some grilled cheese sandwiches and relaxed while the storm passed.”

“The great thing about being in an RV is if you don’t feel that the weather is conducive to driving, you can pull over and you have your house with you. With powerful generators in your RVs, you can be anywhere and have the conveniences of home,” says Herzog.

Stay Safe

With planning and preparation, it’s possible to camp year round in almost all kinds of weather. Checking the weather forecast regularly, listening to a weather radio and knowing what your group is going to do in the event of bad weather allows campers to have a safe and fun trip anytime of year.

• Follow these safety camping tips and make the best out of your camping:
• Make camp before dark. Traveling after darkness has resulted in many accidents from falls, so travel during daylight whenever possible.
• Check for potential hazards. Be sure to check thoroughly for glass, sharp objects, branches, large ant beds, poison ivy, bees and hazardous terrain.
• Avoid areas of natural hazards. Check the contour of the land and for potential trouble due to rain.
• Inspect the site. Look for a level site with enough room to spread your gear.
• Build fires in a safe area. Your open fires and fuel burning appliances must be far enough away from the tent to prevent ignition from sparking flames and heat.
• Make sure your fires are always attended. Be sure you have an area for a fire that cannot spread laterally or vertically – a grill or stone surface is ideal.
• Beware when encountering wildlife. Use a flashlight at night – many animals feed at night and the use of a flashlight may warn them away. To ward off bears, keep your campsite clean and do not leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment or utensils out in the open.
• Watch out for bugs. Avoid attracting stinging insects by wearing light colored clothing and avoiding perfume and cologne.
• Beware of poisonous plants. Familiarize yourself with any dangerous plants that are common to the area where you are camping.
• Think before you drink. No matter how clean or pure stream water looks, it’s likely to contain water-borne parasites and microorganisms that can cause discomfort or serious illness.

It is very important to enjoy yourself when on a trip, whether it be for business or pleasure and you must not be constantly thinking about what you should or should not be doing. Instead the tips below are meant purely as a guide, for you to take some points from and others to leave all together.

Try to look as if you know where you are going, this may not be so easy if after all it is the first ever time in that country, but even still look confident as IF you know.

Carrying maps around looking perplexed, and stopping to look at monuments or buildings, obviously shows that you are from out of town, and may attract the wrong type of attention.

Using travellers cheques, will always be helpful, as will using a credit card for any purchases made so that you can take advantage of the additional insurance offered.

Do NOT pull large amounts of cash out of your pocket. This will catch attention, no matter what country you are in. It sounds so silly, but it is amazing how many people pull out a mound of cash to be some small item. I see it all the time in Thailand, and it always amazes me. There have been times when even I was tempted to follow the guy and .... (rest assured I didn't !

Try to think about where you are going that day and carry sufficient cash for that and any unforeseen extras, plus a card. That should cover all you need and will limit any losses if anything did happen.

Do NOT accept drinks from anybody that you have just met, especially if in dubious surroundings or do not know, they could be laced with any type of concoction.

Try not to go on "wonderful trips" or to a "super shopping centre" rides with people who approach you in the street. This could lead anywhere, and will probably cost you a lot more than by taking a normal taxi. Ask your concierge or read through this site.

Check on your first day whether you need to reconfirm your next flight, if so do it then. Some airlines do not require this anymore but it is still worthwhile calling them so that they at least have your contact details, in case the flight is delayed or whatever.

Do not carry your passport around, leave it in the safe in your hotel. A photocopy will suffice if local law states that you need to.

Taking the family to Disney can be one of the happiest times you spend with your children but it can also be the hardest. The same fun which creates smiles also provokes over stimulation, exhaustion and general crankiness in both child and parent. And as with many things, big fun can also mean a big price tag. Admission into the Magic Kingdom for a family of four costs almost $200 for one day without any discounts or special rates. Add on sodas, snacks, souvenirs, hotel and travel to and from Orlando and your Disney World vacation can leave you wishing upon a star.

Seasoned parents will tell you that there are secrets to maximizing the magic of your Disney World vacation. Here are just a few.

Stay at one of the Disney hotels located on the Monorail
Although the transportation system within Disney is easy to navigate, accommodations located on the monorail system allow you to get back to your room quickly and with few stops. Nap time is easy to fit into the schedule when you are only one monorail stop away. For family with older children, the close proximity of your room provides a level of comfort when the family decides to split up or when a teenager wants to stay in the park long after you've gone back to shower. Disney offers three properties with direct access to the monorail: Contemporary Hotels, The Polynesian Hotel and The Floridian.

Gain early access to the park by staying at a Disney hotel
Staying at a Disney hotel comes with Guest privileges. Each day, Disney offers early admission into Guests who stay at a Disney property. This privilege allows you to get the most popular rides out of the way prior to the park opening to the public. For early risers, try booking a breakfast with the Characters in the park at The Crystal Palace or Cinderella's Castle.

Begin at the back of the park
It's a known fact that people will stop at the first attraction they reach so start at the back and work forward. For parents with young children it's wise to ride Dumbo's ride as early as possible. The line is always long later in the day. Leave the shows and indoor attractions for the hottest part of the day when you'll appreciate the cool air conditioning.

Discover Disney fun outside of the park
This is easiest to do with younger children. There are plenty of fun things to do outside of the parks. Take the bus over to Fort Wilderness Campground for some free fun. There is a general store, over-sized petting zoo and several well designed playgrounds. In the evening, try the Mickey character dinner at the Contemporary hotel. Book your reservations so that dinner will be over at 8:45pm and then take a walk outside to the parking lot. From the Valet stand you will have the best and least crowded view of the Magic Kingdom's Fireworks. (Make sure to confirm the days and times of fireworks.)

Take a break
A full day at Epcot, The Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom or MGM Studios can take a great deal of energy. You'll find that the day will be more enjoyable if you leave the park at midday to recharge your batteries with a short nap or dip in the hotel pool. Re-enter the park late afternoon when others are leaving or having dinner. You'll find the lines will be shorter and you'll be more tolerant too.

Purchase multiple day passes
Disney admission passes never expire and it's always cheaper to purchase multiple day park passes. Use what you need on this visit and save the card for future trips. Florida residents have the opportunity to save on tickets in the off-seasons. Visit www.disney.com for complete pricing on admissions and vacation packages.

Buy your Disney t-shirts prior to arriving at the park
Visit your local Wal-Mart, Target or K-Mart prior to leaving for the land of Mickey. You are certain to find a t-shirt of your child's favorite character on a sale rack. Surprise your kids with a new shirt while unpacking. They'll feel like they've received a souvenir and you'll be pleased with your frugal accomplishment

When traveling with pets in extremely hot weather: Check out the air conditioning unit in your car for functionality before traveling. Use a fan that plugs into the cigarette lighter as well. Place ice cubes into a sealed plastic bag and tie it in front of the duct of the air conditioner, passing the cool air over the ice - makes a swamp cooler affect. Use freezer blocks, (used for picnic coolers) - place a large freezer block under your pet, with a sheet between the block and pet. Check to make sure your pet isn't shivering - just comfortable from the blocks. It goes without saying, to keep plenty of fresh, cool drinking water available for your pet at all times. Also apply sunshades to back windows and the tailgate window (the kind you can see out of to drive safely).

Before you go, gather information regarding veterinarians in the area of your destination:

• Ask your own vet if s/he has any associates in the area.
• Check with members of newsgroups on the web for vets who are trusted and low cost. Rescue groups often have this information, and many are very involved with newsgroups.
• Check on hours of availability. You may need to have two names handy, one for normal hours, and one for after hours emergencies.
• Keep the address and phone number of the vets you've found with your vaccination records.
• This may be a good time to obtain medical insurance for your companion animal.

Animals can very well suffer jet lag. Basically, it works the same as it does with humans. Keep your pets active and in the sunlight, keep habits the same, and don't allow them to oversleep.

There is a great series of books: On The Road Again with Man's Best Friend, by Dawn and Robert Habgood. They actually go out and check out all the B&Bs, inns, and hotels that they recommend and write about in their regional guides. I have the New England one and it is great - 2 to 3 page descriptions on each of the places. They also have a huge 900-page United States version.

Long international flights can be as hard on your dog as they are on you. If you have long layovers (more than two hours) think about checking your pet to that destination and picking it up. Many European airports allow you to walk about with your pet on a leash - so it's a nice break for the dog to get out and walk and be with you. Take a care kit in your carry on - bottled tap water from your home, baby wipes (good for accidents or when something "comes up" - they are non- toxic and leave a nice smell behind), a small brush for drool mats, and a cookie or treat. Place a shirt or some socks that have been well worn by you (i.e. odiferous) in your pet's carrier. It's a big comfort. If you'll be staying overseas for a while, try to stick to your routine as much as possible. Keep walks on the same schedule. Find food that's as similar as possible to what your pet eats at home. Most of the pet stores and supermarkets in Germany, where I lived, had the major supermarket and premium brands. Take advantage of the fact that many establishments allow (well-behaved) dogs inside. Most of all, travelling with your pet can be a pleasant experience for you and your pet if you remember to PLAN AHEAD!! Don't buy your carrier or plane tickets at the last minute. Call the airlines and get SPECIFIC information about requirements AND charges. Not all airlines charge the same amount for the same size dog and costs can be high. Get the proper certifications for both your origination and destination, descriptions of which are available from the USDA/APHIS website. And certainly, gauge your travel plans on your pet's needs and personality. Bon voyage and good luck to all you animal lovers!

It is important that your pet have ID tags at all times. Our pets all have ID tags with our home number and address on them. We also include our RV license plate number on their tags, as we use our RV a lot during the summer. I have made "shrink it" tags as well. These are simple tags made using the craft "shrink it" sheets. I have made several "blanks" and I put their name and the name of the campground, camping site number and the phone number of the RV park or campground on these tags and punch holes in the top. I then put them in the oven and they "shrink" to a regular ID tag size. These are inexpensive to use and easy to create for each site you visit. If your pet should get loose while in an RV site these tags give your current location. Additional information may be placed on the tags, i.e. the address, etc. of your next destination. These tags helped us recover our dog who broke loose from his leash. He was found by another RVer in our campground who commented on how easy it was to find us because his tag contained our site number. We also use these tags when we are visiting relatives or friends and the dogs are with us. There are "professional" tags like these available, but this is an easy, inexpensive method. "Shrink It" sheets are available at most craft stores and cost about $3.99 for 10 sheets (8 1/2 X 11). You trace your outline on the sheets, write your information using a permanent marking pen, cut them out and place on a cookie sheet at 250 degrees for about 10 minutes.

When traveling with cats, always make sure that their carrier is clean and fresh. Line the bottom of the carrier with about a centimeter of newspaper. Then put an old blanket or towel on top. Remember to pack fresh newspaper and old towels or blankets in a bag, so that every time you stop you can put in fresh newspaper and a blanket if necessary. When the time comes, close all windows and doors, then take your cat out of the carrier and clean it. Wash the bottom, put in new paper and a clean blanket, and then put your cat back in. You must do this all ONLY when the car is parked. If you want to take your cat outside to stretch, make sure to have a leash and harness handy. DO NOT let your cat off the leash - he will run away and try to find your house. If you are going to be traveling in the car for more than 2 hours, make sure you bring a container of fresh, cool water. Remember to stop a few times during the trip to give him a drink of water. If you do this all right your cat should be very calm and relaxed during the trip. If he gets calm enough you may let him sit on your lap, but the windows have to be shut. Just keep the air conditioning on.

Before you travel with a pet, be sure that it is well protected against loss. Have in place a system that allows to others connect your pet back to you. If your pet goes missing in a strange place you will want to be prepared. Creatures Global Pet Registry provides a comprehensive system for protecting your pet against loss. They provide your pet's finder with an easy method of contacting you by phone or through the net without compromising your privacy. Creatures Global also supplies a web profile for your pet in the searchable database with links to all the major shelters, a package including an ID tag, posters, fliers, a guide booklet and more.

When travelling with your dog by air, it is easy to put a stubborn dog in its kennel by backing it in. It is a natural reaction for a dog to push backwards in defense; thus walking itself backwards into the cage. If you try to push it forward into the cage, the dog will resist by pushing backwards.

Acclimate your pet. Be certain that your pet is accustomed to traveling in a car. If not, try a series of shorter trips before taking a long one.

Before driving. Feed your pet lightly before beginning the trip, about one third of their normal amount. Save the remainder and feed it once you've reached your destination.

While driving. If the weather is warm, use your air conditioning. Always make sure that air is being circulated frequently. Restrain your pet, using a pet seat belt or secured carrier. Never let your pet ride unrestrained in the back of a truck. Don't allow your pet to stick its head out the window. Take breaks at least every three hours to allow your pet to exercise and relieve itself.

During rest stops. Don't allow your pet to run loose at rest areas. A pet can become lost, run into traffic, or get involved in a fight with another animal. Never leave your pet unattended in the car for any amount of time, especially during warm or cold weather. A car parked in the sun can quickly become overheated - and shade moves. Additionally, your pet can become a target for theft. If you want to leave your car for any length of time and can not bring your pet, contact a local kennel or veterinarian for their day rates.

If staying at a small establishment that accepts pets, it is good to find out how many OTHER animals, (dogs, cats, etc.) will be there at the same time. That way you know what to expect upon arrival at your destination.

When we travel in the car with our pets for fairly long distances, we use the "nothing in nothing out theory". If you do not feed or water your animal right before you leave, they are less likely to need frequent stops. They are more comfortable, not needing to make frequent potty stops.

Vacationing with your pets can be extremely rewarding if you take the time to do some research in advance. If your pets will be staying with you in your room here are some of the questions you should ask when making your reservation:

• Do you accept pets? Guide books and hotel directories are a great resource but pet policies change often so you should always verify the current policy. Are there any pet fees or deposits? Are they per pet or per room? Are they daily or one time only? Is the deposit refundable?
• Am I limited to certain type rooms? I recently stayed in a hotel that would only let us have a smoking room. Many places will also limit you to a street view.
• Are there any areas that I can't go with my pet? I once stayed in a hotel that allowed the dog in the room only, we had to walk them in a grassy area in front of a neighboring restaurant.
• Do you offer anything special for pets? There are places that cater to those traveling with their pets, so it doesn't hurt to ask. There are 5 star resorts that offer pet sitting, pet walking, welcome gifts and room service items.
  Make sure that if you must transport your pet in a kennel that the kennel is large enough for it to stand up, lie down, and turn around.

  Your pet may need a health certificate from your veterinarian before travelling. Check with the appropriate authorities to ensure that you comply with all regulations well in advance of your travel date.

If your child is traveling alone, you should write all the numbers that would be helpful for the child on a note, or in a little date book for when she/he arrives at the final destination.

Don't count on your toddler being willing to eat airline meals and snacks! Little chewy fruit snacks work great during takeoff and landing for keeping his ears comfortable, and the different shapes keep him interested.

One of the best toys we have found for keeping our toddler occupied on trips is a travel-sized MagnaDoodle. When he drops the 'pen', it is attached by string; there are no pieces to lose; and he doesn't run out of paper. We write easy words on it, and he learns to read them, and gets really excited when he knows one ... or, we draw simple pictures and he figures those out. It should be great for kids of all ages - Mommy & Daddy have fun with it, too!

Look into purchasing some Goodnites. These protect kids from accidents (which tend to happen often while travelling) but are more underwear-like. They fit kids over 125lbs. Any kids who you are travelling with (especially in the car) should wear them just in case. It can really save clothes and car interiors in heavy traffic. Goodnites can fit kids anywhere from 3 to 16 years old too.

When traveling with children by air, if at all possible book at non-peak times (late at night, midday and Monday to Wednesday). This gives you a chance at a free seat for your child to stretch out and sleep. Arrive at the airport early. Sprints down an endless terminal are difficult enough, but nearly impossible when packing a baby on your back and holding a small child's hand. When traveling by car and you bring along "treats" NEVER give out them out too fast! Try every hour. You might even take a timer.

When travelling with small children, take along a package of outlet covers. Most hotel rooms neglect to provide these little shock savers, and there are often outlets placed tantalizingly at child height. For rooms equipped with stoves/ ovens, remember to bring knob covers, or simply remove the knobs while not in use.

When travelling with children, be sure to pack a change of clothes for yourself. Time and again my children have spilled sticky drinks all over me on the plane and I was glad I had thought to bring extra clothes for myself! Also it helps to premake airsickness bags at home as the ones the airlines provide are not always there. Another tip--put some cold drinks such as Capri Sun or juice boxes in your carry-on. If your child is thirsty and it will be a while for the drink steward to come down the isle, you will be glad you have them.

While traveling, particularly with small, wandering children, one worry seems to enter all our minds; "What happens if I loose my child?" Here's a tip that will help defray some of that worry. Before starting on the trip, visit a local hospital and ask if they will make one of those plastic bracelets for each of your children. Usually, they will. Then you can put whatever information you'd like on a slip of paper and insert it into the bracelet. If you're traveling to/through foreign countries, you may want to put the information in several languages.

The most successful idea we use is crafting in the car. We use serving trays to create their crafts on top of. Before we leave, I prepare all of the projects we can make, and once we are travelling, it is up to them. The serving trays also work wonderfully for puzzles, board games, and play dough.

Go to the dollar store and buy a bunch of cheap make-up, toys, and anything that looks like fun for kids (age-appropriate items) and if they don't whine, argue, complain, or attempt to hurt each other - they get prizes every 50 miles or every 45 minutes. When they were really young we did this every 30 minutes. It's a lot of fun, and they have all new stuff to use on their vacation.

When traveling in the car or on an airplane, a great entertainer reusable stickers. Your children can stick and restick them on the windows of the car or airplane. Also, lollipops are good for earaches during flying. I travel with my 2-year-old at least once a year by airplane, and when we have to change airplanes, I put a safety bracelet on her connecting her to me. That way I can put my backpack on my back, she's connected to my wrist, and my hands are free to carry her carseat. By the way, I tell her it's a bracelet - and I point out that I am wearing one, too, and that she can take it off when we reach the next gate.

Take lots of children's stories and music on tapes, plenty of cheap toys, and new books.

Wrap individual goldfish, gummi bears, and (a small amount) of M&M's individually in aluminum foil. Small children will delight in unwrapping them to see what's inside. This is a great tip for plane rides. (Make sure to keep a trash bag next to him, though).

When taking long road trips with younger children (6 and younger) have them wear diapers or pull-ups (or for older kids, goodnites) while riding in the car. This has saved us from many accidents. If they refuse to wear them, keep a couple in the glove box and have them put the diaper on when they need to go.

Sounds obvious, but ... Make sure you have your children go to the bathroom before you leave the airport - and have something for them to do so you have a nice flight there and back. Good Luck!!!!

Always keep a recent photo of your child in your wallet - in case you loose them in a crowed area, and need help in locating them.

When travelling with children, especially if one parent only may accompany the child(ren) out of the country - make sure that you have a signed and notarized letter from both parents stating that permission is given to the accompanying parent (or temporary guardian) to take the child out of the country. Make sure also that the accompanying parent or guardian also has the necessary medical release forms for said child(ren). This is especially important when travelling to Mexico. Travel agents or the airline should have these forms available.

To keep children entertained and well behaved during long airplane trips, buy a small carry on (children's size), with wheels. Go to an "everything is a dollar" store, and fill the bag with "surprises". Have the children carry/roll the bag around the airport etc., and during the filght, give them one surprise every 30 minutes or so. You will be amazed at how entertained they can stay, and perhaps give you a chance to "catch a nap".

Pack an entire day's worth of clothing, a change of clothes, sufficient disposable diapers, and food in a Ziploc bag. Make one Ziploc bag for each day of travel. Each day, one outfit goes on baby, the rest of the supplies go in the diaper bag and you are ready to go.

When traveling with children with medical concerns ... Make sure they have their own identification, whether it be a medical necklace or an identification card. Make sure it has your telephone number, the name and number of their physician, and their medical concerns.

When travelling with children, write down the name, address and telephone number of the place you are staying at on a piece of paper, and "I'm lost, please call my parents" or something of the sort, and make sure your child carries it in his/her pocket/wallet. Tell the child that whenever he or she gets lost, he/she should hand the piece of paper to a woman (make sure your child hands it to a woman, much safer than a man usually!) so someone can help them. I've found children don't remember hotel or street names, while a piece of paper makes sure they get it right.

Buy hand sanitizer from Bath & Body Works or Linens 'n Things - it works without water and is perfect for cleaning grimy, sticky hands when you can't find a restroom.

Buy an inexpensive camera (with flash) for children old enough to use it. The trip is then photographed from the child's prospective. My daughter absolutely adores doing this. She then creates a memory book with her photos.

Use baby wipes not only for wiping hands, face, etc., but also for getting out stains on clothing.

For long road trips with children, take a little spiral notebook and ahead of the trip write down names of all the cities you will be passing through. Then on the trip, as you get to each city, point it out to them and they can check it off their list. They get sort of a visual idea of how much more of the trip they have left and it gives them something to do every so often. On the return trip, they start at the bottom of the list and work backward. This worked really well with a six and eight year old on a trip from Michigan to Florida.

To help our kids remember their trip in their own words we buy postcards of the places we go and on the back of each one they write down whatever they want to remember. At the end of the trip we punch a hole in the corner of the postcards and put them on a ring so they have their own special mementos of the vacation.

Prior to your trip, prepare a homemade "book" with a page for each day you will be gone. Write the day/date at the top of each page. As you travel, your child can use any sit-down time to fill in what you are doing that day, draw pictures of interesting things you saw, paste brochures, or get the autographs of anyone - from your waiter to the occasional celebrity! Your book will be just the thing to share with your friends when you return.

Here is a great activity for long road trips with the whole family: Write down the names of your children's favorite songs on separate pieces of paper. Mix them up in a small box or bag (an empty wipes container works great!) While you are traveling, have your children take turns pulling one piece of paper out of the box. Everyone in the car has to sing the song that's written on the paper.

Car Doldrums: There's nothing like a good long stretch to help relieve car seat cramps. If your children are in booster or car seats, they will definitely need to move around every so often. Look for parks, rest stops and other locations that offer not only the chance to stand up, but an opportunity to play. Rule of thumb: a 20-minute break for every two hours on the road -especially with little ones.

Snack-Time Tips: Juice boxes, easy-to-eat snacks, wipes, napkins and trash bags are important. Car trips are the perfect opportunity to use those Tupperware containers that are really too small to be useful at home. Be sure to prepackage each snack for each child - that way you're not trying to pass food back and forth.

Games: You played them as a youth - now it's your chance to pass along the family favorites to the young un's. The license game - ever so popular on those cross country journeys - would work for the preteen set. Toddlers and preschoolers can help learn their colors by identifying the colors of cars. And be sure you learn a few family type songs. Even if your voice isn't of concert quality, you're sure to at least amuse your children. And if that doesn't work, you can always pawn them off on other drivers by getting them to wave to people from the back seat!

Airplane Advice: Pack some finger foods, like fruit, pretzels and cereal for your children to enjoy during the flight. These items might help them adjust to in-cabin pressure changes. For younger children, try using bottles, "sippy cups" or pacifiers to help ease inner ear pressure. For older children, chewing gum can serve the same purpose.

Prepare your children in advance for the trip you will be taking. If you are traveling by car or plane, you can show them on a map the route you will be taking. Even young children enjoy following the route on a map. Show your children travel brochures on the places you will be visiting, and if you can check out some books from your local library about where you will be going, you can use them too.

Memory making is a very important part of your trip. Your children can enjoy creating their own special memories. Have them keep a scrapbook or journal for your vacation. They can cut pictures out of brochures and paste them in, keep their ticket stubs, have new friends they meet sign their books, and much more! Even young children can color or draw things to represent what they have seen on the trip. Mom and Dad can help the younger ones by writing down some of the things they really enjoyed doing on their trip.

If you are going to fly, have younger children's ears checked before you leave. Nobody wants to travel with a child who has an ear infection.

In planning a road trip with younger children, prepare surprise packets for them to open periodically during the trip. Perhaps you could plan for two a day - one midmorning, the other mid-afternoon. In these packets could be such items as books, travel games, snacks, small toys. This gives the child something to anticipate . . . as well as something to do.

Do the research so you’ll know the particular risks you face.

Know the local laws and abide by them.

Register your whereabouts with the U.S. Embassy if you are staying longer than two weeks or are in a particularly dangerous area.

Dress conservatively and try to blend in. If you are in an area with groups of people hostile to the United States, and there are many, avoid clothing or other items that openly label you as a U.S. citizen. You might be safer if they think you are a Canadian.

Take care when choosing your hotel and transportation providers.

If you haven’t left your valuables at home, leave them in your hotel’s safe.

Don’t draw attention to yourself, avoid wearing flashy jewelry and don’t display large amounts of cash. Carry only enough cash to make it through the day and leave the rest in the hotel’s safe.

Avoid traveling alone.

Be careful about sharing your traveling plans with strangers.

Stick to the main roads and avoid taking shortcuts down narrow alleys and/or poorly lit streets.

Always be aware of what is going on around you.

Only use taxis, tours and other transportation services with official markings. Only select transportation from official pickup points at transportation hubs.

Be very careful if you are asked to sell or part with your personal items. Many countries have restrictions on items foreigners can sell or give away and you can get into serious trouble for violating those laws.

Never accept gifts or packages from unknown parties.

Don’t accept items from locals to carry out of the country and deliver or mail to someone they know.

Approach any "special deals" with caution, especially if you have to go off the beaten path to get them.

Know the laws about exchanging money. Only use official exchange facilities since this is another area that can get you into trouble fast.

Where can I find information on issues that will effect my safety while I’m traveling?
travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html - The U.S. State Department’s Travel Warning and Consular Information web page. This site contains detailed information on foreign countries’ entry requirements, safety, crime, medical facilities, traffic and aviation safety, customs, criminal penalties, and special issue information. It also includes contact information and web links to foreign Embassies and Consulate offices.

www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/ - The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency’s country listing section of the CIA’s World Factbook web page. This site contains extremely detailed information on foreign countries. Much of this information would be useful to the business traveler, but it also includes information that would be helpful to the tourist.

How can I avoid being the victim of a pickpocket?

• Don’t travel in narrow alleys or poorly lit streets.
• When possible, avoid having crowds of people surrounding you.
• Carry a dummy wallet and put your money in your front pocket.
• Place a rubber band around your wallet, it will make it much more difficult to remove from your pocket without your knowledge.
• Carry your purse under your arm.
• Carry your money under your clothes.

Shopping the Internet can be the quickest and best way to compare many Rental Car rates.

If you are planning on purchasing extra items such as a damage waiver or insurance, you should also comparison shop those rates.

Make sure their mileage policy is favorable to you so you can avoid extra charges.

Airport fees can be quite large so you might see if it is worth it to use an off-airport facility. However, if the off-airport company picks you up at the airport, you'll probably still have to pay some of the fee.

You can check their national reservation centers and their local offices; one may be offering a better deal than the other. ASK, if this is the best rate they have available.

Make your reservation as soon as you have decided on plans. Most Rental Car Companies increase their rates as reservations come in and their fleets become booked. Also, certain classes of cars will sell out and you may have to end up reserving and paying for a larger vehicle than you want.

Being flexible about your travel plans can save you money. Rental Companies that focus on the business or replacement market customers often have great weekend specials. The best rates are found during the off season and at other times when the Rental Companies have extra cars sitting around.

Check into booking your vacation as a package. You might be able to save by booking your car along with a certain airline, hotel or attraction ticket package.

Book the smallest car that you will need and hope for a free upgrade. But, remember you may get stuck with that small car.

Check into other size class vehicles. They may have extra cars in a certain class and be offering discounts for that size class.

Use coupons, but read them carefully for exceptions. Most upgrade coupons are "based on availability", so if you have an upgrade coupon that you wish to use and also have a monetary discount coupon, bring them both. If they can’t honor the upgrade, they may still give you the monetary discount. Also, remember to book any coupons or discounts in your reservation.

Apply any special discount programs for which you are eligible.

When you get to the counter, ask if there are any upgrade specials available, they might have some good deals.

What credit cards do I need to take with me?

Take your major credit cards, such as, Visa, Master Card and American Express.

Make sure they are really credit cards and not just debit cards with a credit card company’s logo on them. Many locations require a credit card and will not accept a debit card, so they may have limited use on your travel.

Leave all your local store credit cards in a secure location at home; there will be no need to carry them with you.

Why should I contact my credit card companies before I leave?

You want to notify them of your trip. They may delay you if they are unaware you are traveling. The unfamiliar spending patterns might cause them to suspect that the card is being used fraudulently and delay your approvals.

They will be able to explain many of the services that they can provide while you are on your trip.

How can my credit card company help prepare me for my trip?

You can arrange to pay bills that will come due while you are gone.

They will be aware that you will be making charges from another country.

They will be able to give you an idea of how acceptable their credit card is in that particular country.

They can verify acceptance at certain foreign locations.

They’ll be able to see if your PIN number will work in the countries you are visiting. They can also issue you another PIN number if your current PIN is unacceptable to the foreign bank’s system.

They can explain cash advance, ATM, foreign purchase and foreign exchange rate policies and fees.

They can explain any services they offer, such as, extra insurance for your rental car, luggage or purchases. Make sure the coverage offered extends outside the United States and will be valid in all the countries where you’ll be traveling. Also, be sure to note any other exceptions.

They may need to give you another phone number to call in case you need to reach them. The 800 number listed on the back of your card may not work from foreign locations.

You can find out if they charge a currency conversion fee, so you can find the most economical card on which to place your foreign purchases.

Should I use my ATM card while traveling?

Yes, you’ll have access to cash during your trip so you won’t have to take as much cash with you and using your ATM card can also be a good way to get cash in foreign countries.

The ATM will issue money in local currency.

You should exchange at the bank’s wholesale exchange rate. You may still want to shop around to different banks since some will charge a high usage fee for their ATMs. Although, even high ATM fees may be less than others will charge for currency exchanges.

Don't wait until you're out of money to go to an ATM, the machines can run out of money or break down.

What should I know about using travelers checks?

If the particular brand of travelers checks are accepted in the country you’ll be visiting.

How widely they are accepted within the countries you’ll be visiting.

Any fees for purchasing and using the travelers checks.

The travelers check company’s loss, replacement and refund policies.

How can I protect my travelers checks while traveling?

Take the same precautions you would to protect your cash. Be sure to learn and follow the procedures required if you lose your travelers checks. You’ll also need to make copies of your travelers checks before you go and keep separate from them the following information.

The serial numbers of the travelers checks.

The denomination of the travelers checks.

The date and location of their purchase.

The phone number to call to report them missing.

If you have any food allergies, learn the names of those foods in the languages used in the countries you’ll be visiting. This way you’ll be better equipped to stay on the look out for them.

Find out what types of diseases are common to the area you’ll be visiting and take actions to prevent your exposure to those diseases.

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. Get your vaccinations early in case you have a reaction and need some recovery time.

You should consider a dental appointment if you haven’t had a check up in a while.

Be careful what you eat and drink.

Carry complete health information with you on your trip.

Where can I find information that will help keep me healthy while traveling?
www.cdc.gov/travel/ - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Information web page. This site contains updated information and articles on diseases. It also includes guidelines for travel to areas that have suffered a recent natural disaster. The most valuable section of the site is the destinations section. This area of the site contains detailed specific information on diseases common to particular regions of the world, along with the recommended precautions and vaccines advised to avoid those diseases.

www.who.int/ith/ - The World Health Organization’s Geographical distribution of potential health hazards to travelers web page. This site contains information, divided by regions of the globe, on potential health hazards for travelers within that region.

How can I protect myself from traveler’s diarrhea while traveling abroad?

• When you are traveling abroad, don’t forget that drinking another country’s water can be dangerous.
• Stick with bottled or boiled water and carbonated soft drinks.
• Remember that the ice in your drink turns into water, so order them with out ice.
• Wipe off the tops of cans before you drink from them, or better yet, bring some straws to use for drinking.
• Avoid raw foods, as they can also be a good way to get sick.
• Only brush your teeth with bottled water and keep your mouth shut when you’re in the shower, even an accidental spray can get you sick.

• Go for at least 4 nights if you want a true perspective.
• Arrive at a reasonable hour even if you need to leave work early.
• Meet with spa coordinators immediately...
• Choose a spa that fits your needs; overseas spas usually emphasize beauty rather than exercise, nutrition etc.
• Some spas are really resorts with a few spa facilities.
• A good gauge of a spa is the number of professionals on staff.
• Does the manicurist also do facials; if so, this is not a true spa.
• Read health and fitness magazines for a few months in advance and formulate questions; this is your chance to ask specialists everything: don't forget to have questions for the cook, hairdresser, class instructors, hikers, nurse etc.
• Have a goal; this helps you to schedule properly and make priorities. i.e.: weight loss. stress reduction, learning about new ideas, menopause considerations etc.
• List all the machines from your hometown gym; you can get a trainer to teach you how to use them more effectively.
• Figure out how fast you walk so that when you join a morning walk you know your level. Instructors will say " this is the 12 minute mile group" etc.
• Before you pack, find out about laundry facilities so you don't over pack. If facilities are not available, buy 9 Hanes Beefy T Shirts to wear on top--they will be cheaper to throw out than most spa laundry services.
• Leggings and spandex shorts are easy to pack and to wash in your room.
• Do carry some exercise clothes on the plane and wear your sneakers.
• If luggage is delayed, you will find the spa store very pricey!
• Packing in two small bags increases the chances that one will arrive with you.
• Do not overindulge immediately on fresh salad, fruits or high fiber foods. Ask about ingredients, ie. some chocolate sauces contain prune nectar. You will pay the price!
• Spread your appointments so that your body has a rest from exercise; i.e.. book a massage and longer services on the second and fourth days as you will probably be too tired to continue exercising.
• Use your services for information you cannot get from your hometown: ie don't waste time on a manicure if the spa offers for the same price a physical trainer or hydrotherapy.
• Ask a physical trainer for a short stretch routine to do in your room before you jump into the early morning walk, especially if you are not in great shape.
• Bring minimum make-up and no jewelry; most spas are very casual and women wind down quickly. Spas are not a fashion show.
• Do bring something from your college or your children's' school especially if you are going alone. Great way to identify new friends from the same background.
• Try one new class or lecture each day even if you walk out before the end. These include meditation, tai chi, alternative health proposals. Try two new services; even picking what you consider "off the wall". Professional spas do not offer services which have no benefit.
• Remember you will drink lots of water; get rid of your bathroom and locker room qualms. Some of those spandex girls used to look like you so don't be embarrassed. In the same vein, never look at the other people in a class; you are there for yourself not to compete with anyone else.
• Keep an open mind and you will learn not just from the professionals but from the other guests.

When travelling to Europe, consider off-season which is mainly from October to April. You will be able to save on airfare, and find more budget rooms.

Use a guidebook. Guidebooks cost approximately $20 and will save you a lot of money. An up-to-date guidebook pays for itself on your first day in Europe and you will learn about best places to stay, eat and visit to get more value for your dollar.

Use ATMs rather than travellers checks. You'll get your cash cheaper and faster. Note that they come with transaction fees, but you can minimize them by making fewer and larger withdrawals.

There's something "zen" about long bus trips; being an anonymous face in the sea of travelers, being away from all the stresses and distractions of your every day life, losing yourself in a good book or allowing yourself to kick back and "zone out" as mile after mile rolls by you-- sometimes for days-- demanding patience and affording leisure time that you will rarely find elsewhere. Bus travel is inexpensive, flexible, and widely available throughout the continental US, parts of Canada and Mexico. With a bit of knowledge aforehand, your itch to wander can be satisfied on a motor coach.

Before purchasing a ticket, look into all possible options for the best deal. Students, seniors, persons in the military and children can usually ride at discounts. Companion fares offer a discount on one fare with the purchase of a full fare ticket. Advanced purchase tickets are usually cheaper than last minute. For the more free-spirited adventurer, Greyhound Discovery Passes can be purchase for virtually unlimited traveling freedom within your chosen region for anywhere from four to sixty days.

Be sure to inquire about limited time specials that might be running; even if you are making a round trip, sometimes taking advantage of sale prices on two one-way tickets can save you money. Keep in mind, however, that tickets purchased for limited sales usually have traveling limitations, such as blackout dates during which the ticket will not be honored.

Rules regarding baggage are very strict, so it is to your benefit to make certain that the amount, size and weight of your luggage are within required limits to avoid hold ups at the terminal or additional fees (contact the bus company before departure to ensure your luggage is within restrictions and get details on insurance and reimbursement policies). Carry on bags must fit in the overhead rack or under your seat. Special rules apply to such items as skis and bicycles; contact the bus company for specifications before your trip. Remember that, when transferring buses, your bags are not handled for you by employees. You are responsible for claiming your baggage when you leave one bus, keeping it with you and checking it when you board another bus.

Greyhound suggests arriving at the terminal at least an hour before departure; get there even earlier, especially when traveling during busy seasons. Seats are not assigned, and boarding is usually on a first-come-first-serve basis. The earlier you arrive, the more choice the seating options will likely be.

When choosing a seat, remember for your own comfort: the back row does not recline, and, if you plan to read while traveling at night, the very front seats do not have working overhead lights. If you like to get up and down a lot, you might want to choose an isle seat to avoid bothering any passenger that might sit next to you. If you don't like to get up and down a lot, you might prefer a window seat to avoid being bothered. In my experience, if you want to try to get two seats all to yourself so you can really stretch out, sitting on the isle seat seems to discourage others from squeezing into the window seat next to you (unless the bus fills up and they have no other options). Also remember that in coaches equipped with lavatories, the bathrooms can sometimes get-- well, rank!-- and getting stuck sitting near them can be unpleasant, to say the least.

I have always found it beneficial to befriend the bus drivers. While you're not supposed to talk to them when they are operating the coach, take a moment to chat with them before departure or during brief stops-- that way, if unexpected layovers occur, or if there is any confusion, you will find it easier to get their help or, at the very least, get information from them.

During maintenance stops, when the bus is cleaned and serviced, everyone is required to exit. You can leave your carry on bags, jackets, etc., on the coach; keep in mind though that the bus company is not responsible for anything you might find missing. At the very least, make sure everything is off the floor, as the clean up crew will mop without much concern about your personal belongings.

Any time the bus stops, know that it will depart without you if you are not back before the scheduled time. Make no mistake-- the driver will not wait for you, nor will any belongings you leave in your seat or on the overhead racks be removed. If the bus makes a stop to pick up new passengers, those already on that coach will get to reboard ahead of new people (make sure you get a reboarding ticket from your driver before exiting the coach during the stop). If you miss the reboarding call, someone just may end up in your seat, leaving you stuck at the terminal to wait for the next bus.

With unrestricted fares, you can make stopovers at any point on your route, should you decide you want to spend the day sight seeing in an interesting town, or get a room for a good night's sleep before continuing your journey. Be sure to have the driver or ticket agent make the proper notation on your ticket when doing so. Remember when re-boarding that seats are still on a first-come-first-serve basis.

1. Coordinate your clothes around one or two basic colors. This cuts down on the number of shoes and accessories you have to bring.

2. Take as few clothes as possible. Plan on laundering. One person suggested one week's worth of clothes. I take fewer unless they are my washable silks.

3. Wear and carry washable silk clothing whenever possible. It is as warm as and as cool as cotton. It dries overnight and 10-15 pieces take no more room than two pair jeans. There are some other manmade fabrics that travel as well if not better, but they cost quite a bit more.

4. Plastic rain coat can double as a bathrobe or windbreaker.

5. Take older clothes that can be discarded along the way. Great for growing children. Many places, the local people are pleased to get these castoffs. There are travelers who take nothing but old clothes so they have that much more room for bringing souvenirs home.

6. Jeans - I never take them as they take so long to dry. If both the time and money for laundering are concerns, take lighter weight pants.

1. Find your dream boat. The biggest mistake cruising newbies make is booking the wrong ship. Most people focus on the destination (Caribbean, Mexico, etc.) and don’t pay enough attention to the ship itself. &nbspCruise lines—and even individual ships within a line—vary greatly in terms of atmosphere and facilities. Some have a party-all-the-time ambience and/or a great gym and spa; others are ideal for curling up on deck with a good book. So work with a travel agent who& nbspspecializes in cruising. Discuss your budget and what you are looking for, or & nbspbetter yet, arrive at the agency with your personal wish list in hand.

2. Book early. There are two ways to get the best price on a cruise: book early or book at the very last minute. Both will save you money, but early bookers get the best choice of cabins for roughly the same “sale” price as late bookers—and avoid being disappointed because their ship is sold out. "Early" usually means three to six months before the cruise; the savings generally are 25 to 50 percent off the published brochure price per person.

3. Get the best cabin you can afford. Some people say that it doesn’t matter what your cabin is like, since you’ll only dress and sleep there. Not so! If this is your honeymoon, you’ll want every detail to be perfect. Don’t assume anything: queen-size and even double beds and bathtubs are not givens on a ship. While some cabins do have oversized beds, in others single beds are pushed together for couples. In some cases (mostly on older ships), the beds are nailed to the floor, not exactly a honeymoon dream come true. Most cabins have small (single-occupancy) showers, not bathtubs, so if you like to soak ask for a room with a tub. Most important, a nice cabin makes you more inclined to enjoy things like room service and sipping morning coffee in your PJs. The ultimate luxury: a private veranda so you can leave your sliding-glass doors open and fall asleep to the sounds of the sea.

4. Take care of business. A bit of preparation pays off in a carefree trip. In the pre-wedding whirlwind, it’s easy to forget that life will go on while you’re away. Such as the mail (stop it.) And bills (pay them.) And your pets (kennel them.) Tape a "To Do" list to your fridge, and check things off as you go. Don’t forget to shop for film, extra batteries, sunscreen and travel-size toiletries. These are more expensive to buy on the ship, and you may not find your favorite products. Consider filling small plastic containers with conditioner and shampoo from the big bottles, which you can leave at home.

5. Pack light, pack right. Be prepared for the off chance your luggage will get misplaced. Even if your bag isn’t lost, it often takes hours before it gets to your cabin. So pack for survival: Put a little of everything you’ll want and need in &nbspa carry-on bag. This includes undies, shirts, socks, a bathing suit and &nbspsomething to wear to dinner. As added protection, buy travel insurance that covers you for lost, stolen, damaged or delayed luggage.

6. Beat the rush. On most cruises, you’ll want to schedule all kinds of things. So will everyone else usually at the same time. Shore excursions are described in a brochure that comes with your cruise tickets; book any excursions you can’t bear to miss early on (Increasingly, lines allow you to book them before you leave home.) It’s also a good idea to make your spa appointments and specialty restaurant reservations on the first day of the cruise so you don’t lose out.

7. Be shore-savvy. Some shore excursions are worth taking.&nbspOthers are not. How do you know the difference? Take shore excursions when they offer a chance to do something really spectacular—like helicopter flightseeing. A car and driver can be a more personal (and less costly) way to sightsee. To make it more fun (and affordable), put your own group together and share the ride with newfound friends you’ve met on board. But note: if you go solo and miss the boat, you’re on your own.

8. Get the royal treatment. Ask your agent about cruise lines that pamper their passengers with in-room extras like terry cloth robes, fruit baskets and the like. Let the cruise director know you’re newlyweds. Ask about honeymoon and anniversary parties, dinner at the captain’s table and other special recognition. You can also buy packages that include things like a formal portrait in an engraved frame and a champagne breakfast in bed. Most lines also tailor packages for couples who want to kick off their honeymoon with a wedding.

9. Stuffing the envelope. The last night of the cruise is a bittersweet time. You’ve had fun. You’re going home. And then there’s that little business of tipping to take care of. Remember that tipping is always entirely up to you. Most cruise lines will recommend just how much to tip. (About $3.50 per passenger for the waiter and cabin steward and $2 a day for the busboy.) These are only guidelines; tip what you want. You should never feel pressured. The maitre d’, for example, need not be tipped just for asking, "How was your dinner?" On the other hand, if he made your cruise extra special by finding that table for two, let him know with a monetary gesture that says, "Thank you."

10. Cruising for romance. On most cruises, you’ll be assigned a dinner table (usually with other passengers) and time (early or late) for the entire trip. See the maitre d’ as soon as you board to specify which seating you prefer; also let him know if you prefer a table for two and be sure to advise him of your newlywed status. After dinner, remember that the hot tubs never close, and you’ll probably find yourselves alone under the stars. For more alone time, stay on the ship when everyone else goes ashore it’s like having your own private yacht.

1) Costa Rica Adventures
From the dense rainforests to the sparkling seashores, Costa Rica belongs at the top of everyone's favorite destination list. Surfing, whitewater rafting, pristine backcountry adventures, culture, stability, freedom of movement, exploring the forest canopy, rappelling waterfalls, diving, fishing...the list of reasons is long.

2) New Zealand - The Land of the One Ring
Even if film innovator Peter Jackson didn't film the "Lord of the Rings" epic in New Zealand this year, it would still be a grand spot for adventure -- as more and more will be discovering in the New Year thanks to the publicity provided by the epic adventure films. While the orcs and goblins of the movie are all make-up and CG programming, the landscapes are real. Enough said!

3) South Africa Adventures
The Dark Continent ever remains a popular destination for adventurers worldwide. From great waterfalls and massive, rolling rivers, to abundant wildlife and nature events that rank among the best the world over, the diversity of this region lends itself to travelers looking to see several attractions in the same area. Explore the forests, the plains and the beautiful beaches of South Africa - an experience long remembered.

4) Siberia - Land of Mystery
Closed to most of the world for so many long years, Siberia -- the vast land of the Russian Northeast - is quickly gaining attention as a favorite adventure destination for those willing to experience the wilderness in the raw. From dense forest to rolling tundra, the great outdoors of Eastern Russia are ideal for those wanting to adventure away from the mainstream. Outdoor activity opportunities abound in this little discovered travel Mecca.

1. Use a travel agent. Agents rarely charge for their services, and, thanks to their expertise and computerized systems, good travel agents almost always save their clients money as well as time.

2. Begin planning early. The sooner the better. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to research your trip it’s actually part of the fun! and you’ll be able to get exactly what you want. (Some places are reserved as much as a year in advance for popular dates.)

3. Share the planning. After all, this honeymoon is for both of you. If you make all the decisions, you’ll feel guilty if things don’t go perfectly. Conversely, if you don’t take part in planning, you may end up dissatisfied.

4. Set a tentative budget. Talk about your expectations and priorities so you can agree before you go about what you’ll splurge on and where you’ll skimp. This way, you’ll avoid money hassles en route. Suggestion: Splurge on your accommodations. Even if you think you won’t spend much time in your room, you’ll probably be sorry if it’s not special.

5. Take it easy. The first few days so you can recover from post-wedding exhaustion and focus on each other. Don’t try to do too much remember, you’ll have lots of time to travel together, but only one honeymoon.

6. Take advantage of free info. Call your destination’s tourist board many have toll-free telephone numbers and websites for free information on hotels, restaurants, activities and festive events. Some even provide discount-coupon books.

7. Register for your honeymoon with a travel agent or tour operator. Gifts are put toward the total cost of your trip. The average couple who uses a registry gets $500 to $1,000, which can really makes a difference.

8. Planning to take your spouse’s name? Unless you’re taking a delayed honeymoon, you won’t be able to amend your passport, driver’s license, etc., until after you’ve returned from your honeymoon. Even though you’ll be anxious to start using your married name, it can be a real nightmare if you haven’t legally changed it yet. Instead, use your maiden name on visas, airline tickets, etc., so they match your name as it appears on your official documents.

9. Pack a sense of humor. A bit of flexibility can go a long way on a honeymoon. Expect that things won’t always go as planned. Do what you can to remedy the situation, then relax and enjoy your honeymoon. Years, or even a few hours from now, you’ll probably laugh.

10. Tell the world you’re honeymooners! Don’t be bashful about your status you’re likely to enjoy special treatment such as complimentary champagne in-flight, or a gift basket in your room.

Never accept the first fare quoted. Half the time, some other airline's flight within hours of the one you booked has a special, less expensive deal.

Take advantage of "illegal" connections. These are connecting fights usually less than 45 minutes apart-too close for airlines to feel safe in making them connect. Result.- These flights usually do not even show up on the computer when your trip is being routed. Way out Have your agent write up your flight on two separate tickets. The second is for the illegal connection that originates at your transfer point.

Example: You arrive at O'Hare in Chicago on the way to San Francisco. Instead of waiting three hours for the safe connecting flight, you already have a separate ticket from O'Hare to San Francisco on an illegal connection. If you miss the connection, you turn that ticket in for the next available flight. Cost for two separate tickets.- No more than one through ticket. Baggage.- Waiting for it to be unloaded can cost you valuable time on this tight schedule. Best.- Travel with carry-on luggage.

Some supersaver fares are so low that even if you can't stay as long as their requirements (some ally seven days), you will save by buying two round-trip tickets-one from your home to your destination for the day you want to leave and one from your destination to your home for the day you want to return. The total may be less than the regular round-trip fare.

If you miss your flight and there's just time to catch another, go right to the other airline's departure gate instead of to its ticket counter. If it has an empty seat, the second airline will usually honor the ticket for the flight you missed.

Best seat in the plane. After first class, the choices center on your priorities. For comfort and a smooth ride, pick a seat over the wings. For silence, sit as far forward as possible, but avoid the galley and rest rooms. For leg room, try the first row or seats beside the emergency exits.

 

It's always important to take care of your health, but there are additional concerns to keep in mind when you're travelling.

Whether you're taking a quick trip with your family or studying abroad for several months, it's easier to get sick when you're in a new place because your body hasn't had a chance to adjust to the food, water, and air in a new environment. Travelling can bring you in contact with things that your body isn't used to.

Here are some tips on keeping your travel experience as healthy as possible.

Don't Take a Vacation From Health

The stress and excitement of travel can make you more likely to get sick, but if you follow a few simple tips, you're more likely to stay healthy throughout your trip — and your trip will definitely be more enjoyable. The good news is that as a teen, your immune system is as strong as an adult's, but lack of sleep and a poor diet can make it easier for you to become sick.

The first thing you should do if you're heading overseas is to find out what kinds of vaccinations you'll need in advance because different countries have different requirements. In the United States, contact your doctor or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for a list of necessary vaccinations. You'll want to allow plenty of time for this step in case you need to get vaccines that require more than one dose.

Common Travel Troubles

Three of the most common health problems that you may experience when travelling are jet lag, altitude sickness, and diarrhea. When you fly across time zones, the differing amounts of light can change your internal body clock, resulting in a condition known as jet lag. Jet lag may cause some symptoms that are bummers on a fun trip, including upset stomach, insomnia, and tiredness.

There are some things you can do to combat jet lag; for example, if you're travelling from west to east, you should stay out of the sun until the day after your arrival. If you're flying from east to west, go for a brisk walk as soon as possible after you arrive.

Altitude sickness is caused by dry air, a decrease in oxygen, and low barometric pressure when you travel to a higher altitude than you're used to. As a result, you may have problems, such as headaches, dehydration, and shortness of breath. Some people are affected at 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), but others aren't affected until they reach altitudes of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) or more. Find out what altitude you're travelling to before you go to see if altitude sickness could be a problem.

The best prevention for altitude sickness is to gradually increase your altitude every day to get used to it. If that isn't possible, a drug known as acetazolamide can help relieve and even prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. If you think that you might get altitude sickness, talk with your doctor before you leave home.

The topic of diarrhea may seem gross, but it can be a serious problem. Traveler's diarrhea, known as turista, often occurs when a foreign type of bacteria enters your digestive tract, usually when you eat contaminated food or water. The best way to prevent turista is to be very careful of the food you eat and the water you drink on the road.

Safe Eats and Drinks

So what foods are safe to eat? Any foods that have been boiled are generally safe, as well as fruits and vegetables that have to be peeled before eating. Avoid eating uncooked or undercooked meat or meat that is not cooked just prior to serving.

Stay away from foods that require a lot of handling before serving. Here's an example: Nine friends ate at a restaurant when on a school trip overseas; eight had diarrhea the next day. The one who didn't get sick was the only one who had ordered a dish that didn't need to be touched by human hands right before serving.

One of your favourite foods at home is on the safe list on the road — pizza! Pizza dough, sauce, and cheese are foods that are less likely to spoil than others, and the high heat of a pizza oven tends to kill any harmful bacteria in the food.

You've probably heard that you shouldn't drink the water in some countries overseas, but did you know why? Water supplies in many developing countries are not treated in the same way as water supplies in developed countries; various bacteria, viruses, and parasites are commonly found in the water. Many experts suggest you drink only bottled water when traveling. If you need to use tap water, you should boil it first or purify it with an iodine tablet. Even if you're brushing your teeth, rinsing contact lenses, drinking a small glass of water to wash down pills, or adding ice to your drink, first take precautions to ensure the water is safe.

You Can Take It With You

 

When you're packing, you'll want to include any medications and other medical supplies you use on a daily basis because they may be hard to find in another country if you run out. Even if you can find them, there's a good chance the formulations will be stronger or weaker than the ones you're used to. These may include any prescriptions you already take, such as inhalers, allergy medication, and insulin, as well as contact lens cleaners and vitamins.

Packing an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen and diarrhea medication is also a good idea. It's a good idea to pack some over-the-counter allergy medication even if you don't take it at home. People sometimes unexpectedly develop allergic reactions to the pollens and other allergens found in a new environment. Those with asthma or other allergies can unexpectedly react to these new substances.