Know Before You Go: Traveling the U.S. and Abroad

Traveling to an unknown destination ignites our desire for adventure. It opens the door for us to step outside our “box” and see the world from a new perspective.

But there is also the practical side of traveling: the rules and regulations, getting through the ever-increasing airport security, entry/exit requirements of foreign countries, safety and health aspects from being exposed to new environments abroad—and finally what your budget says you can afford.

In order to travel from our side of the world to another, we need to know what is required—and the list is long. There is more apprehension about traveling abroad…and even in the U.S. With our increased vulnerability to terrorist attacks and other security threats, there are heightened security measures at airports, hotels, train stations, and other public places that necessitate forethought when traveling.

What sets this book apart is that it goes far beyond “travel tips” to travel specifics. It covers not only the “typical” traveler, but includes those with special health issues or disabilities, our honorable soldiers in the military…to those with unusual circumstances. It takes you through each step of the planning process—which is especially vital when traveling abroad. It is an easy-to-follow format—allowing for quick reference on your specific needs. It clears up those grey areas that are oftentimes confusing.

Missing a so-called “minor” detail (such as not having enough blank pages in your passport) can cause major problems. You may not be able to board the plane or enter your destination country. Or you may find yourself abroad with no way of getting cash, because the pin number of your ATM card is not accepted at foreign ATM machines; or you didn’t realize that your passport is considered invalid in the country you are traveling to, because it will be expiring within six months of your return date.

Many travelers (including myself) have experienced complications that could have been avoided, had they known what to expect in advance. Here are just some of the problems travelers have encountered:

- Paid exorbitant fees to get cash or when making purchases abroad

- Had no cell phone reception or paid excessive amounts in roaming fees

- Became ill or injured while abroad and found out later their insurance would not cover them

- Were in a minor accident in their rental car that ended up costing thousands of dollars out of their pocket, because they were

not insured properly

- Came home to bills with foreign transaction fees that they were not even aware of

- Their “waterfront hotel” was not on the ocean, but on a duck pond

- Were severely beaten up and robbed by thieves posing as “taxi drivers”

- Arrived at their “beach” vacation spot only to find it was hidden among steep jagged rocks or rough surf—and the list goes on.

Many a vacation has been ruined by the unanticipated “potholes” in the roads of travel.

If you are planning a beach vacation, are you aware of the dangers of rip currents and how to spot them? Rip currents can be found on oceans and large lake beaches worldwide and pose a serious threat to swimmers, people wading in the water, or even children playing along shore. You will learn how to spot them and how to safely swim out of them. This information could save your life.

Tourists are a prime target for thieves abroad. This book will make you aware of their scams and how they operate (like using children to cause a distraction). Let's keep you from becoming their next victim.

You’ll learn about alternate lodging options you may not be aware of that could make your travel more affordable. Avoid paying unnecessary fees and expenses and find out how to get the best prices available. I’ll step you through the planning and packing phase of your trip and provide you with resources on how to stay healthy, avoid food poisoning, and stay safe and much more.

Stuff happens—know what to do if it happens while traveling.