There's no place like it
Vacationing in a foreign country can give you the leisure you want, as long as you do the research and plan ahead, in anticipation of any untoward incident which you may come across. Getting around in an unfamiliar country hundreds of miles away from home can be stressful, if you don’t have at least a rough idea of what you’re getting into. The following suggestions may be the help you need in making your trip as stress-free as possible.
The first person you may need to talk to is your travel agent. He should know all about the destination, at least those details which are of lasting interest to tourists. Guides and brochures which are available at the agency are also of help. Consider the trip as valuable as any investment; don’t rely entirely on the information your agent supplies you with, and do some research yourself. Learn about all of the local festivities of the country which may coincide with your visit, so that you may schedule your trip around them. Be in the know with laws and traffic regulations; you’ll also need a rough overview of crime and health risks which come with the trip. An online visit to the Center for Disease Control website will provide you with updated information on current health issues which the country may be dealing with. If the destination is under a drastically different climate, you’ll have to prepare yourself in advance for any health threats by having proper immunization and medications before departure.
Be updated on current events and determine if your destination is tourist-friendly. Heightened alarms are declared for sufficient reasons, such as social unrest or political instability, which may directly or indirectly affect the foreign tourist. Familiarize yourself with the location of your embassy in advance, in case you’ll need its help. Be sensitive to the local customs and norms of the country, so you can sufficiently blend in upon arrival, and not stick out like a sore thumb. Some countries are very particular with dress codes; keep yourself within comfortable limits so you won’t offend the locals. The importance of learning about the language of the country, and memorizing several phrases which may help you in getting around or asking for assistance, may not dawn on you until you arrive; pick up a bilingual dictionary so you’ll have less trouble in communicating with the locals.
Check with your airline in advance if the country has certain restrictions on what items you are allowed to take with you upon entry and departure. Make sure that all the necessary documentation is on hand a week before you board, so you won’t rush yourself at the last minute just to comply with basic requirements. It is advisable that you also book your accommodations in advance, and you won’t have to run around lugging your luggage, looking for a place to check into. It is also better if you get around in a rented car than with public transport, as the latter may pose risks for any tourist; book your slot in advance in order to have your car ready and waiting for you upon arrival.
Get firsthand testimonies about the country. Talk to a friend or relative, or visit online forums, in order to find out details which may not be included in a standard travel brochure. Information from testimony is invaluable, since it comes from real people who have been there; word of mouth brings out the nasty and nice parts in any country, details which you’re agent may be hesitant to share with you.