When hiking in the back country, first aid kits are always a good idea. But, should you pack one for other types of trips? If so, what should you include?
You can easily make a small kit that includes things like a few individually wrapped alcohol ads, small packets or a stick of antibiotic ointment, some bandages, and a small LED flashlight.
Do you ever pack a whistle in your carry on bag or purse? Traveling in areas where earthquakes, blizzards, avalanches, or tornadoes are frequent…a whistle might be a good thing to have. Speaking of earthquakes…we hear about earthquake survival kits we should have ready. These should also include a whistle.
You’re in Florence, or Rome, or Paris, or anywhere for the first time. You want to see everything. This is a special trip. You have a list of things to see and do.
Slow down. There is no possible way you can see everything in one trip. If you continue to speed through a city or a country…you really won’t see anything. And, you certainly won’t remember anything.
Plan on a few ‘must see’ spots. Then, relax and take time to wander around. Get to know the city or the country instead of speeding by at mach five. Whet your appetite for a return trip.
Sure, those ‘nine countries in 12 days’ tours sound like the way to get an overview. But, in reality…all you see is the view from a speeding train or tour bus. You never get to walk the streets of Venice at sunset, or watch the Eiffel Tower come alive with lights at dusk, or savor your wine while you watch the river boats along the Rhine.
Relax and take your time. Your vacation will be much better…
You’ve probably read a guidebook or three before you travel. Now, what do you visit, what do you see, where do you eat…? There can be so much information that you really aren’t sure which guidebook to follow.
Keep in mind, guidebooks are great at giving information, at pointing you in the right direction, and giving you background information on places you’re visiting. They can be a valuable resource.
However, they are not the only source of things to see and do. There’s much more to the world than the guidebooks can include.
So, what do you do? Read the guidebooks and use them as a base. Then, ask locals or people who have traveled where you are going. Does someone know of a little cantina in a back street that serves the best wine in Venice? Does the bartender at that cantina know the best place to eat lunch? Does your waiter at lunch know where you should go to buy pastries for breakfast?
Guidebooks are important…just not the only source for a great trip.
You’ve probably already made sure the thermostat was set correctly, the house sitter has the keys, and your bag is packed before you leave for that two week trip to Venice.
Have you also charged all of your devices? Recently…like in the last hour before you leave?
Have you unplugged home electronics or shut down your home computer? Anything you or your house sitter won’t be using…unplug it before you leave.
Have you double checked your documents you will need while traveling? Do you know where they are in your purse or carry on bag?
Have you checked your flight status?
Have you checked your email for any last minute changes to reservations?
Have you checked the wait time at the airport?
Have you checked traffic on the way to the airport?
Have you placed all important medication in your carry on or purse instead of your checked bag?
Have you taken photos of your checked luggage and your travel documents? Take photos of both the exterior and interior of your luggage. Take photos of your passport vital info. Take photos of your itinerary, any other identification, reservations, and anything else you will need. If you take these with your phone, make sure your phone is password protected.
Wine Lovers…support this great cause and enjoy the possibility of winning some amazing wines.
