if any of these mishaps ever come your way,
you will certainly wish you had.
“We had clients that booked an airfare online.
They had a cruise they were taking. They assumed it wouldn’t change from three months
ago,” Lombardi says. “They showed up and the
flight had already left. Don’t let down your
guard until you get on a plane or get on a
train or get on a bus.” Communicate any special needs to your providers well in advance
to be sure they understand your request,
Rees says. Make sure you understand the
documentation requirements for the country
you visit; some countries require a visa if you
stay for over a certain period of time.
Check online at CultureGrams.com for concise reports on customs, holidays, faux pas
and etiquette rules in foreign places.
12
Protect Your Belongings
Security lines at airports are the biggest culprits for lost and stolen items, according to
Lombardi. She advises travelers to be ready
to gather their belongs as soon as they come
out of the X-ray machine. “People walk away
all the time and forget things like credit cards
and money. It’s no fun to be en route for a trip
and have something swiped.”
Watch expensive electronics like cameras in
places where they could be a hot commodity, and never leave anything expensive in a
hotel room if it’s not locked up. Many newer
hotels have safes in the rooms and using one
is a great idea if available. There is no good
reason for a hotel maid to swipe your new Tag
Heuer or that diamond bracelet, but it does
happen, so just don’t leave it accessible. ✤
March 2014
INSIGHT