Traveling to another country can be a thrilling experience. There are so many places in the world that should be seen by everyone. On the other hand, traveling to an unknown country can also be scary. Most people have a ton of questions as the approach their international trip. If traveling internationally you should spend a lot of time researching and preparing. This is actually fun because it is so interesting learning about new countries and cultures.

Finalize Your Itinerary
This is the most basic form of organization. You need to make accommodation reservations, purchase flights and organize travel to and from the airport. This can all be done easily online with today’s technology. A travel agent is not necessary anymore but you can always consult with one if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Passport and/or Visa
You must have a valid passport to get out and back into the United States. Your trip will not happen if you do not have a passport. You can apply for a passport at any U.S. post office. Do this at least five months before your trip because it can take a while. Check to see if you need a visa to get into the country you are traveling to. Countries like China and Australia require you to apply for a visa before you embark on your trip.

Outline Your Activities
If you are going on a trip to sight see you will need to outline what activities you are going to do and when. Research where sites are located. Group them together depending on location and travel to one area at a time. Doing this will ensure that you see everything you had in mind. Look online and search for blogs and websites that have information about your destination. There are so many helpful resources on the internet.

Currency and Amenities
You will need to figure out the currency used within the country that you are traveling to. You can exchange money when you arrive at your destination or before you leave. Most countries will accept American credit cards without charging a fee. Call your credit card company before you leave and tell them you might be using your card in another country. This will avoid the drama of them freezing your card once you are one your trip.

Call the hotel or place you are staying and ask about electrical sockets. Things like phone chargers and hair dryers won’t work in some countries because they have a different voltage. There are converters you can purchase that eliminate this problem. Most hotels will provide the converters free of charge.

Pack it Up
One of the hardest things about travelling internationally is the packing. You want to be sure you remember everything without over packing. Airlines are now charging large fees for bags that are overweight. Make a list of things that you will need and check them off as you put the items in your bag.

These are just a few tips to get you started! Remember to have fun and don’t spend to much time fretting over the logistics of the trip!

Use Little Money in Mexico

Via Pesos roughly means “by pesos” in Spanish. This implies how the traveler or backpacker in Mexico can get by on pesos – literally getting by with very little money. If one wishes to visit Mexico on a small budget, it has been shown as possible to do so. A great reference travel book on the topic is the 2007 text by Carl Franz & Lorena Havens (The People’s Guide to Mexico, Avalon Travel). First of all, it is usually a good idea to visit Mexico with little to no cash. It is suggested that the traveler carry only traveler’s checks and credit cards. This can be a security issue and more security issues will follow below. Also, getting by on as little as possible will help one blend in more with the local people/s.

Laundry and Water

It is possible while backpacking and traveling in Mexico (or most sub-tropical zones for that matter) to get by with very few changes of clothing. This also implies a reduced need for laundry and other services. However, underwear changes and washings will become necessary if one consumes the water in any form in certain areas of Mexico. This becomes obvious to the traveler who has experienced the joys of ‘Montezuma’s Revenge’ and/or ‘Backpacker’s Diarrhea’. Serious consideration needs to be given to treatment of local water before consuming. Even Halazone tablets may not be 100% effective. Boil your pot and drinking water if possible. Otherwise, the traveler will be using more laundry and underwear than anticipated.

How to Get Around and With Whom

Unless one is traveling as a group, there are ways to find other folks with whom to backpack and travel to Mexico. One website (Hobo Traveler) offers tips and a message board on making a budget trip to Mexico. One might wish to search “Backpacking in Mexico” while advance planning. The site is current and will offer messages from many potential travelling companions from around the world. Other sites and even blogs will offer testimonials (independent of Mexican government sites) praising the low cost aspects of travel to the country.

It has been mentioned elsewhere (see Franz and Havens) that there are many ways to get around when in country. Some of these ways may include traveling by RV Caravan or camping in a rental vehicle. Even better, it would seem, is to follow around a caravan in one’s rental vehicle. One may then enjoy the advantages of truly low cost travel and camping while having the help and security of fellow traveler’s nearby. But, this is not always convenient if one has one’s own itinerary and list of objectives. The choice belongs to the traveler.

Safe Passage

By following or joining a caravan it is possible that one may enjoy safer travel in Mexico. While the government website TravelState does say that thousands of people go to and from Mexico safely everyday, there are precautions. One should not carry cash if possible and avoid other flashy items like jewelry and laptops. One should always report to one’s local embassy when traveling in Mexico. You may contact the US State Dept. at 1 (888) 407-4747 prior to departure and at (001) (202) (501) (4444) while in Mexico. In general, safe travel equals less costly travel.

The Philippines is composed of 7,107 islands stretching as far as the tip of Borneo and Sabah, and in the northern part of the Philippines, one can travel to Japan by boat in less than 10 hours because Batanes Island is just a couple of hundred miles away from the territorial sea border of Japan.

Practically, boats, mostly old, dilapidated, are the mode of getting from one Philippine island to another. Because islands are situated relatively close to each other, taking a medium-sized boat is the best option for tourist travelers and Filipino commuters. A trip from Manila, the capital city of the country, to one of the islands in the Visayas region will take 24 to 26 hours. That is quiet a hassle for those who are traveling with small kids.

In recent years there have been many sea tragedies that hit the Philippine sea waters. The deadliest one was the sinking of a Sulpicio passenger boat off the cost of Romblon and Masbate which claimed nearly 2,000 lives. The Philippines is facing the vast Pacific Ocean. Understandably the country is a recipient of south monsoon winds from the Pacific. Typhoons always pass by the central part of the Philippines before they proceed to Taiwan or Vietnam or Japan.

Before the arrival of low budget airlines, people had no choice but to take the long torturous boat journey. It was like a monopoly for the traditional big boat operators, mostly Filipino-Chinese businessmen. They lord over the seas and they raise the ticket price without public announcement and as often as they want. Still, Filipino travelers would take the boat since a plane ticket will cost two or three months of an ordinary employee’s salary.

But in the last five years, traveling in the Philippines has significantly been revolutionized. There are now low budget airlines such as Cebu Pacific Air, Air Philippines, Zest Air, or Sea Air that will connect you from one island to another in less than an hour. The flag carrier, the Philippine Airlines, the first airline in Asia, has been forced to slash down its rate as it can no longer compete with low budget airlines. This is good for all Pinoy and foreign travelers. They now have an option. Taking a boat will cost the same as traveling by plane. Why take the boat when you can have the comfort of a plane ride?

What follows is a bit odd. Boat operators are now trying to compete with low budget airlines. They too slash down their fare rate and they have been aggressively advertising their travel offers.

It seems that the era of the shipping industry in the Philippines would be best left for cargo and logistics purposes only.

As for most travelers today, getting around the country’s thousands of islands has been made easier without hurting their pocket. Thanks to low budget airlines. People now have a choice.

What do you think of when you hear American Express Gold? No pre-set spending limit? High annual fees? Prestige? Perks? Big late fees? Actually all of the above can be associated this card. Sometimes it can also mean the best seats in the house or roadside assistance. American Express Gold members share that it seems like the benefits just keep getting better and better each year as American Express continues to try to be the “gold” standard in credit cards.

American Express Customer Service

1-800-528-4800

americanexpress.com

The Ups and Downs, Ins and Outs

1) No Pre-Set Spending Limit

Obviously this could be a double edged sword if you are not careful but the benefit is there none the less to say “yes” and with a very few limitations you can charge what you want. Remember that at American Express the full balance is due each month and sure there are some limitations and restrictions.

What is I can’t/don’t pay off the balance each month?

If you choose to carry a balance, the interest rate is 17 to 19%.

2) Travel Benefits

Roadside emergency assistance, rental insurance, baggage insurance and other privileges like check cashing all come with your membership. If you travel a lot, then these benefits can really be worthwhile and you’ll save on purchasing them individually.

3) Purchase Protection

This credit card offers insurance on new purchases as well as extended warranty benefits.

4) Rewards

Like many other credit cards, AE Gold offers rewards through accumulated points based on spending. The rewards points can be used for travel and entertainment packages and more.

5) Premium Entertainment Perks

Gold does seem to have its’ privileges here. Members can often get premium seats at sporting events, concerts and other venues and there are sometimes discounts available for members too.

Annual Fees?

There are four options available including the Rewards Plus Gold American Express and the Preferred Rewards Gold American Express. They both have a hefty annual fee attached that occasionally can be waived for the first year through special promotions.

The Rewards Plus Gold has a $150.00 annual fee.

The Preferred Rewards Gold has a $130.00 annual fee.

American Express also offers a Senior Card just for senior citizens that have just a $35.00 annual fee. Apparently it does pay to be a senior.

If you are have investments with Fidelity, then there is also an American Express Fidelity Gold card available for Fidelity customers. This is a joint venture between Fidelity investments and American Express and there is no annual fee as long as you maintain the Fidelity investments accounts.

What do American Express Gold Card Members have to say?

-The benefits are great.

-This card offers more flexibility with their rewards. For example points can be transferred to frequent flyer, hotel or airline points.

-Customer service is really good.

-They also say, never make a payment late. It will cost up $30.00 or more.

Members and this reviewer also remark that if you take advantage of the benefits, perks and rewards then this gold card is the one to have. If you’re not going to, then the annual fee and slightly higher interest rates can make a Visa or Master Card a better deal.

Going other places is an exciting activity that most of us dream about. Before venturing out to a destination, preparation should be taken to make traveling a hassle free experience. What type of travel experience do you want? Do you prefer adventurous and full of fun activity? Take heed because I will be revealing a wonderful place to experience adventure.

Peru is one of the most favorite destinations of travelers who are willing to spend their money for adventure. I know it’s a bit expensive and luxurious and not everyone can afford it. But travelling to Peru is a wonderful experience that is worth every penny you spend on it. You may have heard about the Peru treks or lares trek that most tourists take while in Peru. You will be delighted to take the treks in the Inca trail for its magnificent mountains, cloud forest and other ecological varieties. The classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is also a great option for some mountaineers because of its extraordinary view.

Going to Machu Picchu can be done in two ways: either by train/bus or traveling through the Inca trail on a 4 day and 3 night hike. Travelling through the trek means walking 4,200 m above sea level while witnessing the sunrise and enjoying the wind. The hike starts with 82k m of the railroad from Cusco and hiking around 45 km to reach Machu Picchu. This is such a different kind of experience, much different than the daily city life.

Machu Picchu was reconstructed for months due to the January 2010 mudslide. It was closed for awhile, but is operating again and is ready to welcome its visitors.

So are you thinking about taking a trip to Peru? Ask a travel agency about Peru tour package prices so you can begin saving money and preparing for this exciting event. This adventure will truly make a difference in your life!

If it’s your first time on an international flight to Asia, things may be a little confusing. Your trip will require a lot more planning than the short flight you took to visit Uncle Joe in Peoria last year. Here’s a few tips for making that long trip go a little more smoothly.

1. Make sure your ticket has the same name as your ID and passport. If your passport says “Daniel” for example, don’t book your ticket under “Dan.” And if your passport has your maiden name, book your ticket the same way.

2. Get to the airport on time. Plan to get to your departing airport at least two hours before your flight leaves. Remember too that airport traffic can be very congested, and it may take you longer to even get to the airport than you anticipated. Confirm that your flight is still on schedule before you leave your home.

3. The comfort factor. You will be sitting in a small seat in close quarters for hours on end. Chicago to Tokyo for example, might be a 12 hour flight. Sitting that long in a small seat is going to be more uncomfortable than you ever imagined (unless you’re lucky enough to be flying first-class). Even under the best conditions, it’s hard to sleep, it’s not very comfortable, and your legs may cramp. It’s important to keep your circulation flowing to your legs by getting up every now and then just to stretch or walk down the aisle. You can even do a little exercise right in your seat if the aisle’s blocked-just move your legs around a bit at your seat, cross and un-cross your legs, and stretch them in and out. Removing your shoes will also increase your comfort factor-but make sure you have clean socks when you do!

4. How many suitcases? The rules are tighter, and not all airlines are the same. Don’t assume you can bring two big suitcases to check in and two more to carry on. Many international airlines now only allow you one large and one small check-in, one carry-on and one handbag or laptop, so check the allowed dimensions ahead of time before packing.

5. What to pack? Don’t overdo it. Basic items like razors, shaving cream, toothpaste or shampoo are available there, too. If you have children with you, a few comfort foods from back home will go a long way. Take into account the local weather-if you’re leaving from Minnesota in January and landing in Kuala Lampur, bring some light clothes and sandals with you, it’s going to be hot. And of course, be aware of the restrictions regarding sharp objects and liquids.

6. Connecting flight confusion. You may need to connect to another flight in a strange airport in a country you’ve never been to before. Typically, these connecting flights are in a major hub, such as Bangkok, Tokyo, or Seoul, all of which have very large and busy airports. Rest assured, there will be signage in English directing you to your destination. Be aware though that not all staff speak English, but if you ask around, you should have no problem finding a staff member who can understand you. Announcements about flights are usually made in multiple languages, but the announcer may have a heavy accent and may be hard to understand-so make sure you have also checked the flight board to make sure you know when your plane is leaving.

7. Review your airport transportation options. When you arrive in a foreign country, finding your way from the airport to your hotel may be a challenge, especially if you are unable to read the signs. Your hotel may have a shuttle; alternately, there is probably a taxi stand at the airport. Be sure to take a taxi directly from the official taxi queue. In some airports, you may find rogue taxi drivers circulating the airport perimeter. These taxis don’t use the taxi stand for a reason-they may be trying to rip you off. They may not have a meter, or they may even have more sinister motives in mind.

8. Get some local money, in small denominations. Major Asian airports will have money exchange booths, some of which are open 24 hours. Some airports, such as Tokyo’s Narita, even have an automated machine for exchanging currency. As soon as you get through customs, before you leave the airport, avail yourself of this service, even if you think you can get a better rate elsewhere. You will need local currency as soon as you walk outside of the airport. Greenbacks, Loons, Euros, or Pounds won’t do you any good if you want something to eat or need a ride. Make sure to get small denominations, as taxi drivers and food stall operators are unlikely to carry much change-and if all you have are thousand baht notes in your pocket, you may be stuck giving your driver a much larger tip than you intended.

9. Getting to your hotel. Once you leave the airport, finding people that speak English may be a little more difficult. Check the web site of your hotel-it will probably have directions and a map written both in English and in the native language. Print out a copy of this, so you can show it to your driver. Airport drivers, even if they don’t speak English, are usually familiar with most of the major tourist hotels.

10. Don’t have a tight schedule. If you’re planning on getting to a meeting an hour after you land, forget about it. Plan on at least two hours to get your bags and go through immigration. Also keep in mind that large airports tend to be quite some distance from the center of town, and your taxi ride to your final destination may easily consume another hour’s worth of time.

Restaurants and Bars – You do not get water for free, you have to pay for it. If you order water you will get carbonated water. In most restaurants you can request tap water and they may or may not charge you but it is most likely straight from the sink. In some American fast food restaurants, (i.e. McDonalds) you must pay for ketchup as well. Be aware that the menus at most fast food restaurants in Germany are not exactly the same. You may also notice that a sandwich that you recognize from back home may taste a little different or it could be smaller. When you enter a restaurant you will not be seated, just walk right in and pick the table of your choice!- the tip should be much smaller than you would give in the States (this is because the waiters/waitresses get paid more than in the states) A tip of two or three EUR would be considered a good tip for very good service.

Supermarkets – If you shop for groceries in Germany you will notice the supermarkets have all of their large rolling carts outside in a designated area and they are locked to one another. In order to utilize a cart you must place one EUR in the cart itself, you will see the slot on the handle. Upon leaving the supermarket you latch the cart back to the other carts and pull the device out where you placed the coin, now you can retrieve your coin. When you have all of the groceries you want, proceed to the check-out counter. You will have to purchase plastic bags to put the groceries in or you can take one in yourself. If you decide to purchase one they are usually visible at the counter and normally only cost a few cents. If there is a long line do not put all of your groceries in the bag, put them back into the cart and bag them away from the line.

Closing hours – On Sunday everything is closed except for some restaurants, bars, gas stations and shops at the main train station and bigger airports. Some bigger stores are realizing that they can make much more money if they open on Sunday so they are doing just that, but I would not rely on it. During the week shops in bigger cities close at 8 PM at the latest. You may see shops in smaller cities closing even earlier.

Public Phones – Public phones are very rare in Germany. If you find one you will notice that they only take telephone cards. You can buy a telephone card in different shops like “T-Punkt”, “Telekom”, “Post”, and “Vodafone” or you can go to an Internet cafe.

Miscellaneous – “Bad” in front of a towns name does not mean that the people or the city is bad for example, “Bad Homburg”. Bad in front of a towns name normally means that the town is designated as a healthy location normally with very clean air and water.