As we come out of the cold months of winter, it is time to start planning some trips. To enhance your trips from here to there, keep the following in mind.

1. Foreign Pay Phones – Picking up the phone in another country can present a host of challenges. For instance, how much does the call cost? In most countries, you can now buy calling cards that work the phones to save you the hassle.

2. American Express Mail – If you have an American Express card, you are one lucky devil. You can have your mail sent to any American Express office in the world. Just hop over and pick it up.

3. Packing for Europe – If you are packing for Europe, pack light! Europe is not another planet. They have soap, books, clothes and so on. You can buy it there. Trust me!

4. Avoid Carrying Souvenirs – If you are on an extended trip, you will start accumulating souvenirs of all sorts. Don’t haul them all over the place. Mail them home and save your back!

5. Russia, Friends and Vodka – Russia is a great place to visit. The people are friendly and vodka drinking is very common. Have fun, but use your common sense. Some Russians are simply too friendly if you know what I mean.

6. Wrinkle Free Pants – Always take a pair of wrinkle free pants. You can roll them up to save space. You will need them to enter churches, museums and other places.

7. Yelling at Thais – Thailand is the land of smiles, but it doesn’t mean everyone is happy. Culturally, raising your voice is a very bad move. Never yell at Thais. It will not help, but will hurt you.

8. Laptop Charging – When traveling, it is vital you know what the ampage is in the country you are in. More than a few laptops have been zapped by being hooked up to a 220 outlet. Take a regulator to make sure this doesn’t happen.

9. Seeing Europe with Children – If you are traveling to Europe and are taking kids, hotels and hostels can be a pain. Try renting a villa and exploring the area around it. They are much cheaper than you think.

10. Walking at Night – One of the great things about traveling is experiencing the nightlife in a new location. When walking on the streets, keep in mind things may be different. In some countries, manholes are not always covered!

I have to admit I am addicted to travel. Experiencing another culture and way of life is just tremendous. Of course, you need to know how to laugh at yourself as well. Have a great trip.
Author :  Rod Tilton