“D” is for the Do’s and Don’t of Visiting Dubai-Our Middle East Adventure

Our cruise came to an end in the city of Dubai.  As we left the ship, we were happy to have completed two of the five legs along the 2023 Island Princess World Cruise. After 55 days on board, this was actually the halfway point of the 110 day cruise and nearly double the length of time we had originally planned on being on board.

It was before 7am as our ship pulled into the port.  The day began with a spectacular orange sunrise.  Normally a red sky in the morning would be a warning for rain or stormy weather ahead, but Dubai sits in the middle of the Arabian Desert. With an annual rainfall of just 4 inches a year, there was little chance of seeing any moisture on this day.  The sunrise was more likely being affected from the permanent haze caused by the blowing sands.

As we sailed past the “Atlantis Dubai”, an all inclusive resort and waterpark reflecting the “Lost City of Atlantis”, it quickly became apparent that we had arrived in a country of opulence.  It is difficult to imagine that this city started as little more than a fishing village.  It has now grown to be the most populated city in the United Arab Emirates Republic (UAE).

Most would assume that Dubai’s wealth was the result of oil.  In fact oil and gas only account for about 2% of all exports!  Real estate and construction are the largest contributors to the economic growth of the country. When 85% of the population is made from expats, it is easy to see why this is one of the fastest growing cities in the world.

Truth be told, I was a little nervous about visiting this city.  This is a country with deep traditions and customs, many of which are quite different from our Western way of life.  Mostly my concerns stemmed from my own ignorance about what to expect.  A little research solved that problem.  Perhaps by sharing our observations, we can help to dispel any concerns about visiting this amazing location.

1. The majority of the population is Muslim.  This is a deeply rooted religion with different rules than those of Christianity.  The most important “do” is to respect this.  Part of being a world traveler is to immerse yourself in new cultures.  Each new location presents an opportunity to learn, embrace it.

2. Muslims pause to pray 5 times a day. Prayers are before dawn (Fajr), afternoon (Dhuhr), late afternoon (Asr), after sunset (Maghrib) and evening (Isha).  There are loud speakers throughout the city which call worshippers to prayer at regular intervals throughout the day. Don’t be alarmed when you hear the calls. Unlike in Christianity Holy day is Friday.  This means many businesses offer limited hours on Fridays, if they open at all.  Do plan accordingly.

3. Do take public transportation or use a taxi.  We rented a car to explore the city and stressed ourselves out completely.  Traffic on the seven lane highways is fast and a bit difficult.  Our GPS had trouble distinguishing from when we were on a highway verses a frontage road, meaning we were often off course, which cost us precious time.  Since we were only in the city for a little over 24 hours, we couldn’t spare any.  The city is beautiful and there is much to see.  Traffic is so busy you will not want to take your eyes off the road which means you will miss some of these spectacular sights.  Take a taxi or take the Metro.  If you choose to ride the train, it will be busy during rush hour.  There are a few cars for women only.  if you are male, don’t ride in these female only cars or you will be fined.  Speaking of fines, do not eat or drink on the Metro, it is prohibited.

4. Dubai is spread out with several distinct districts.  Some are more difficult to access without transportation.  Do know the district your hotel and/or desired activities are in.

5.  With the exception of smoking cessation gum, you will not find gum for sale in Dubai so do bring your own if you need it. Don’t spit or throw your gum on the sidewalk, both are punishable crimes.

6. You are going to be hot, so do dress accordingly.  Dubai is warm year around.  The most comfortable time to visit is during “winter” months of December, January and February.  You can still expect temperatures to be in the high 70’s (25C).  At the opposite end of this spectrum it is up to 113F (45C) during the summer months!   Light, loose clothing will keep you comfortable. Speaking about clothing, do remember you are a guest in these lands.  Different from the western world it is expected that men and women both dress modestly to observe Islamic traditions,  Knees and shoulders should be covered by both sexes.  Don’t forget your sunscreen!

7. Do exchange some money.  When using cash, only local currency (Emirati durham) will be accepted.

8. The best don’t is don’t worry about your safety (within reason of course).  Dubai has an incredibly low crime rate.

9. Do not miss visiting the popular tourist spots!  Be sure to see the Burj Khalifa,  The tallest building in the world is an architectural wonder.  The views from the 124th floor are slightly nauseating and completely awe inspiring. Do expect the lines to be long.  If time is limited most of the tourist hot spots offer a “skip the line pass”.  As an added bonus, the Burj is attached to the Dubai Mall which is another one of the must see locations in Dubai.  We also suggest a visit to the Gold and Spice Souks, Old Dubai and the Miracle Gardens (which we completed all in one day).

10. Alan and I are very affectionate with each other,  There is rarely a time when we aren’t holding hands.  Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Dubai.  In fact, if you are not married, even holding hands is frowned upon. It was a tough don’t for Alan and I to remember.   Along these same lines, unmarried couples should not plan on staying in the same hotel room.  Doing so, could lead to fines and/or deportation.

11. As a traveler it is fun to photograph different cultures.  People can be so different but do be polite and ask permission before taking someones photo.  Alternately you could take photos of other things and just happen yo capture the environment.

12. Don’t take pictures of Government Buildings.  As we were cruising down the above waterway, there was a cool bridge just before our boat turned around to return us to our starting point.  Shortly after taking this picture there were also numerous signs warning no photography beyond a certain point. I am not sure what lay beyond that bridge but if the Emirates might consider your photo an issue of national security, you really don’t want to be in trouble with the law in foreign lands. Do follow the rules, punishments may be strict for seemingly minor (and perhaps innocent) infractions.

13.  Speaking about laws, Alcohol is available in most hotels, licensed restaurants and clubs. One thing is certain, the U.A,E does not tolerate public inebriation. Do not ever drink and drive, the legal limit is zero.

14.  Finally, do not try to carry prohibited items.  It is especially important to remember that you packed a pen knife in your carry on luggage before you pass through security at the airport.   Failing to do so might bring a search of your bags and a very serious security agent to your side!  Thankfully I wasn’t carted off to any back rooms.  Do expect that you will be questioned and asked to surrender your “weapons”, if you forget.

Dubai is one of the most liberal countries in the Middle East.  With the large expat community there is a tolerance for most differences.  With these few simple guidelines you should have enough familiarity to feel comfortable in this amazing country.

“T” is For TSA Approved Travel Snacks-Travel Tips & Tricks

TSA APPROVED TRAVEL SNACKS

  • Apples *be warned, they make some people gassy.  If you slice these before travel, make sure to treat with Fruit Fresh or lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • Baked oatmeal
  • Bananas
  • Bell Pepper strips
  • Blackberries-whole
  • Blueberries-whole- *Blueberries can be frozen and used as an icepack that TSA won’t confiscate
  • Breakfast bars
  • Breakfast burritos (scrambled egg with diced veggies
  • Breakfast cookies
  • Breakfast sandwich
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Cheese sticks/slices
  • Cherries
  • Coconut
  • Cooked ground beef or turkey
  • Cookies
  • Crackers
  • Cucumber
  • Dehydrated/dry fruit
  • Deli meat *perishable item
  • Dry cereal
  • Edamame
  • Energy balls
  • Fruit roll ups
  • Granola/Granola bars
  • Grapes-whole or cut *grapes can be frozen and used as an ice pack which TSA won’t confiscate.
  • Grilled beef, chicken, pork, turkey
  • Hard Boiled Eggs*perishable so shouldn’t be kept at room temperature for more than a couple of hours.
  • Jerky
  • Kiwi-whole or cut
  • Melon-cut, cubed or balls
  • Muffins
  • Nut butters
  • Nuts *unsalted are best
  • Oatmeal (dry packets/cups)-just add hot water
  • Oranges-whole or peeled
  • Pasta (cooked)
  • Peaches (whole or cut up) *treat cut fruit with fruit fresh or lemon juice to prevent browning
  • Pears (whole or cut up) *treat cut fruit with fruit fresh or lemon juice to prevent browning
  • Pineapple (cut up)
  • Plums (whole or cut up)
  • Popcorn
  • Potato wedges
  • Pretzels
  • Quinoa (cooked)
  • Raisins
  • Raspberries-whole
  • Rice (cooked)
  • Rice cakes
  • Roasted chickpeas, pumpkin seeds etc
  • Roasted potatoes and/or veggies
  • Salad
  • Salad dressing *must be put in a container 1 oz or less and passed through with your liquids
  • Sandwich/wraps *Some sandwiches can be frozen the night before to help with transport. Lunch meats are perishable so make sure to keep the sandwich cool when traveling.
  • Smashed potatoes
  • Sugar snap peas
  • Strawberries-whole or sliced (no juice)
  • Trailmix
  • Veggies-mixed
  • Watermelon-whole, cut, or balls
  • Whole grain, vegetable and bean salad

Foods to Avoid-These foods can leave you feeling bloated and/or dehydrated.

  • Salty snacks such as potato chips
  • Very sugary snacks
  • Caffeine
  • Heavy foods such as pizza and hamburgers
  • Smelly foods which could disturb other passengers

 

Tips for Food and Drinks

Fill an empty water bottle, or purchase a bottle of water once you are on the other side of security.

Always pack some food when you are traveling.  You do not know when/if you might get stranded on the tarmac, or in the airport.    If the plane pulls away from the gate, flight attendants are not allowed to dispense food or drink until the plane is in the air.

Keep hot food hot by packing in an insulated thermos.

Consider freezing some foods (such as sandwiches/muffins) the night before you travel.  Freezing them helps to protect them longer.  By the time you are ready to eat, they will defrost.

Carry condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo etc) in individual sized serving packets.  These must be passed through security with your other liquids.

Almond butter, peanut butter, hummus etc are considered “creams” and must be passed through security with your other liquids. *However, if these are spread on a sandwich, they are acceptable to pass through in a food bag.

Avoid drinking coffee/tea on a plane.  The water used to prepare these is stored in a holding tank, which is never cleaned.  Choose canned sodas, bottled water and boxed/bottled juices instead.

Fruits, vegetables and meats are generally allowed on a flight, however many international flights will not allow you to remove these items from the plane once you land (due to agricultural laws).   Food should be consumed while in flight and/or disposed of carefully.

Foods such as sandwiches and cut fruits/vegetables must be wrapped or in a container.  Whole foods such as apples and bananas do not need to be packed in containers.

Pack a  plastic spoon, fork, knife, napkin and wet wipe (for each person) with your food kit.  *I also pack a travel straw, but this is optional.

“F” is For Fifteen Tips to Plan For Vacations Over 30 Days-Travel Tips & Tricks

As we prepare for our 42 day travel adventure, it occurs to me that getting ready for a long vacation is far different than preparing to leave town for a week. Being away from home and/or work for long stretches of time requires substantial planning.  For each extra week of adventure, there are more things to consider.  For each change in location there are more preparations to make.  One thing is certain, most trips over 30 days are going to need a little structure. There are many moving parts to long vacations, especially when they take place in foreign locations. There are reservations for flights, trains and buses.  There are accommodation arrangements to be made and cars to be rented.  There are visas, passports and sometimes vaccinations to obtain. There are questions to be asked about cultures, weather, rules and activities. There are financial considerations to make.  Having a big picture of the way you want things to go, will generally help you achieve the results you hope to gain. The goal to all planning is to eliminate as much potential stress as possible.  For me, this always begins with a dream, pencil and paper (or a computer) and an investment of time.

 

Here are 15 steps to help prepare for your own long adventure:

  1. Plan, plan, plan! This process can be a lot of work, but it is worth putting in the time and effort before your vacation.  You will see more  and experience more by having a general idea of what options you have available.
  • Daydream then set some travel goals. The vision might be as simple as creating memories and having fun.  If your goals are a little more complex (such as when my son wanted to hike Mt. Fuji), then you may need to consider your health, conditioning and the time of year you will travel. How energetic or quiet does the trip need to be? How rugged or refined do the accommodations need to be?  Goals may be different if you are traveling with children and/or elderly etc.
  • Decide where you want to go. Will you stay in one location or visit many cities?  Will you travel between countries and/or continents?  Does your destination fulfill your travel goals?
  • Map it out. It doesn’t make financial sense to hop over a city, or country, then return to it (unless you are doing a circular tour).  It doesn’t make sense to travel half way across the world and miss “that one location”, if a quick detour can take you there.  Many times it can be as simple as adding to a multiple stop plane or train ticket to add the destination while en route.  It can often be surprisingly economical and sometimes cost even less than purchasing a direct fare.
  • Pick a date. Start at least 6 months in advance. Many popular locations and activities are often booked out months in advance.  If you are taking time off of work, can you add national holidays and or weekends to the beginning or end of the trip to give you a few more days?
  • Set a budget. Long vacations may mean you lose income, plan for it.  Long vacations may require airfares, hotel expenses, transportation fees, restaurants etc, plan for it. Long vacations may require a new wardrobe, plan for it.  Adjust your plans, not your budget. Build a little cushion into the budget for unexpected emergencies.
  • Research airfares, train fares etc. Does moving your dates affect the pricing?  How often are flights available?  If a flight leaves only once a week and is cancelled, it will be another week before you will have an opportunity to leave.  Are there other airports in the vicinity?  If you miss a connection,  could you hire a car or take a train to get to a more serviced area?
  • Research visa and other requirements such as passports, vaccinations etc. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Many locations require vaccination for things like malaria or yellow fever.  Sometimes these vaccinations need to be completed so many days in advance of travel.
  • Leaving home and/or work responsibilities, there is much to think about before departing on a long vacation. Who will handle your mail, take care of your pets and/or your home? How will you pay your bills or know if you have a power outage?  Will your phone and/or email work in another country? Plan, plan and plan some more.
  1. Start a travel notebook or file folder
  • In the many months leading up to your adventure, you are going to be writing and rewriting your plan. Having one place to gather details makes it simple to quickly locate the information. This organization allows you to brain dump as you are going through the planning process.  It is easy to move your plan around on paper. In time, this notebook will also be a great place to store confirmation numbers, insurance contracts, itineraries etc.  Your notebook keeps the entire process organized.
  1. Educate yourself.
  • Once you decide where you are going, gather as much information as possible. When planning for a long vacation I will scour You Tube, Trip Advisor, Pinterest, Google Maps and travel guides to glean as much as possible about the area I want to explore. This is how we might come to realize we don’t really want to rent a car in a difficult to drive city.  We might realize there is a cool cafe, then note that it is located within walking distance to a botanic garden or museum we are planning to visit.  By reading others comments and suggestions, I have been known to change the smallest of details.  I usually know which side of the bus or boat will give me the most panoramic views of a location.  I usually know if a sunset or sunrise will be more spectacular at a particularly beautiful location.  I usually know how safe an area is.  I can’t stress enough how important it is to educate yourself.  Some would argue that they just want to “discover” a place but this early research has always allowed us to see more, do more and experience more.   If you don’t know what is available, you don’t realize how much you can miss. If you know in advance that an area is prone to pickpockets, you can take many safety precautions in advance.
  • Try to gain an understanding of the country’s history, geography, customs, politics, and their approach to tourism. This shows a level of respect and will help you engage with the local people more. Having this up front knowledge also means that your trip will start off a bit smoother.
  • Figure out the best and worst seasons to visit. Are there certain holidays and festivals occurring around your planned travel days? Is this something which attracts you or would you rather avoid crowds?
  1. Make lists– Ask yourself tons of questions.
  • What cities do you want to visit? What do you want to experience (culture, architecture, museums, landscapes etc)?  What sites are there to see?
  • How will you get there? Is parking available if you are driving?  How difficult is traffic?  Is there an easier transportation method?  Are there discount coupons/passes available to reduce costs?  Do you require a special license to drive?
  • How are cultures different? How are they the same? Do you need head coverings to enter religious sites? Are women expected to dress or act differently than men?
  • What is the expected weather/temperature for the time of year you are traveling? Do you need special clothing for weather or cultural differences?  What activities will you participate in? Will you be hiking, biking, swimming etc which requires special clothing and/or footwear?
  • Do you need to shop before packing? Will you do laundry while you are on this trip?
  • What is the maximum weight and size restriction for luggage for every plane you are traveling on?  What other restrictions are there in your transportation mode or at your accommodations?  Constantly asking questions will allow you to build a plan.
  1. Check for Opening and Closing Times.
  • Is the attraction you want to see open all day? Is it open 7 days a week and/or at night?  What are the busiest times of day?
  • If you are using public transportation, do the busses and trains run all night?
  • If you are driving to a National park are the car parks open during the time you want to be hiking or exploring?
  1. Plan for complications-Flights get delayed. Luggage gets lost. Hotel and car rentals get cancelled.
  • Leave plenty of time between connecting flights.
  • Leave plenty of time to clear customs and security when transferring flights between countries (usually at least two hours is recommended).
  • If you are planning a cruise, always plan to arrive the day before it sets sail.
  • Always pack a spare pair of underwear, a toothbrush, prescription medication, some cash and a small snack in your carry on when flying. If your flight is delayed and/or your luggage lost you will have a few essentials to help.
  • Look for cancellation options with all reservations. If you are delayed or suddenly fall ill, this may offer the most financial protection.  If you decide you want to be more spontaneous in your adventures, having the option of cancelling reservations makes the entire process less complicated.
  • Purchase travel insurance. Of course we want to assume that nothing will go wrong, but it does happen. Luggage gets lost, purses get stolen, people get sick and injured. Believe me, when anything like that happens you’ll be happy you have travel insurance!
  1. Plan for safety– Part of a travel experience is to take the back roads and/or wander and just get lost, which you should do.  Surprises should always be part of the vacation, however understanding if an area is safe or not should never be.  Several times in my adventures, I have wandered just a block away from an attraction only to find myself in a drug infested slum and sometimes precarious situations. In my defense, most of these mishaps were before information was so readily available online.  Today, even a little research prevents this.
  • Research if there are high crime areas. What types of crime occur?  What, if any, precautions should be taken?
  • It is also really important to understand (and respect) cultural differences. Never assume that because a rule is one way in the country you are from, it will be the same in another country. Things we consider minor infractions in the USA (littering and jaywalking for example) may bring substantial penalties in foreign countries.
  • Review your government travel advisories for any country/location you will be visiting. These will often give you information regarding disease outbreaks, political instability and geographical disruptions (such as due to hurricanes etc).
  • Know where the embassy for your country is located.  If war or a major disaster suddenly breaks out, or if you lose your passport, this may be the only way to be repatriated.
  1. Plan your free time. I know, I know…this seems crazy After researching an area for safety, build the opportunity for unplanned discovery into your itinerary. If you have already mapped out the highlights you hope to visit, you will know about how much free time you should have left. By scheduling this free time in chunks around your “must see/do” itinerary, it allows you to still be surprised but ensures you have seen all which you set out to discover.
  2. Plan some down time-Rest and relaxation are especially important on long itinerary packed trips. Unless you are relaxing on a beach all day, you may be continuously moving and exploring.  Your brain may be filled by all the new information you are processing.  Sometimes you just need a bit of quiet.  Build these moments into your day/trip. Perhaps a little rest in your room, a coffee at a local café, sitting by the sea or pool, a picnic in a park and/or quietly watching a sunset can all be good ways to just unwind for a minute.
  3. Plan some nighttime activities-A city or location can have a completely different feel at night. If it is safe to do so, consider exploring during this time.
  4.  Make an itinerary
  • Once you have your plan, you can make an itinerary. The key to visiting a lot of locations is to not waste time.  You would be amazed at the amount of time which is wasted just by trying to figure out what to do next.
  • By planning your days, you will know about how much time to dedicate to each activity. You will know what time you will need to start a day, or when an attraction opens and closes. You will know if there is “extra” time and where/when to detour.
  1. Start packing-Yes, it may be a good idea to start thinking about what you need, as much as 6 months out.  Consider the following:
  • Will you need specialized clothing such as bathing suits or wet weather gear? Will you be able to purchase these items during your season of travel?  If I know I am traveling to a warm destination during the middle of my winter, I know I am going to have to purchase clothes quite a bit in advance of my trip!
  • Try on your clothes. What works, what needs repairing/replacing?
  • Will you need extra camera batteries, first aid kits etc?
  • Make a list of the extra items you need, then begin picking these things up early. This allows you to take advantage of sales and return things if they don’t fit.
  • Weigh your luggage as you get it packed. There is nothing worse than realizing your bags are overweight as you are rushing out the door. The more you do ahead of time, the less stressful it will be when it finally comes time to pack.
  1. Break in new shoes-If you will be purchasing new shoes, be sure to wear them regularly before traveling. Do they cause blisters or pinch? Would it be helpful to add liners, lifts or arch supports? It is easier to make changes before you need them.
  2. Make copies of important documents- If these documents are lost or stolen, they can be difficult to replace. Which may mean an end to your vacation.   Having a copy of these important documents stored with a family member or trusted friend, or on an encrypted flash drive (or all of the the above) will make the process much easier.
  • Passports/visas
  • Drivers License/photo id
  • Greencards
  • Credit cards
  • Insurance policies
  • Confirmation numbers
  1. Order local currency-Cash is king, no matter where you are visiting. Get it in small denominations.
  • If the power goes out, so do the ATM’s and credit card machines.
  • If your credit card gets frozen because you forgot to notify your bank that you were traveling, you will appreciate being able to get a meal/accommodation until you figure out what to do.
  • If your taxi, bus driver, or favorite coffee shop refuse to take credit, having these small bills available may be the difference in a good day or a complex day.
  • Many places won’t take credit cards, farmers markets, food trucks, craft stalls etc.  Keep your purchasing power by keeping cash on your person at all times.

 

“T” is For Trip Insurance-ABC Travel (General tips)

 

I have a love/hate relationship with insurance.  I love having it when I need it, I hate paying the extra when I don’t.  However, insurance is something you hope you never need to use, but you get it anyway.

It seems there are insurance plans for everything….your car, your home, your teeth, and your health… But oftentimes people forget that their normal insurance policies typically won’t cover stolen items or accidents/health issues which occur overseas. This is where travel insurance comes in.

Actually, there are many reasons for taking out travel insurance.  Seasoned travelers are well aware that flights, hotel reservations, car rentals, cruises, land excursions and medical expenses are often not covered in the event of a trip interruption, illness, injury or even death.  Let’s not forget about the large numbers of travelers who found themselves stranded when a global pandemic broke out and the world came to a halt.

More commonly someone suddenly falls ill or is injured before leaving on a trip or while abroad. Maybe there is an unexpected job loss or a death in the family and the trip needs to be cancelled.   Without insurance, you are likely stuck with the cost of your ticket and you may find yourself on the hook for any hotel and car reservations you have made.  These expenses can really add up.

In a different scenario, maybe you made your first flight, but perhaps the plane sat on the tarmac or the flight was rerouted due to weather.  Perhaps this caused you to miss your connection or even to  miss the departure of your cruise.

If you have “missed connection coverage” on your travel insurance, you will have the option of taking another flight to the next port-of-call, or taking the next available flight to your destination,  You might even be able to stay in a nice hotel while waiting.  Without trip insurance, you may be stuck.

Imagine that you are on your dream vacation when a storm damages the area.  Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, blizzards and more can all disrupt your plans and/or cause damage to your property.  Travel insurance can protect you during these times.

Let’s say you fall or become ill during your trip.  Maybe you require emergency dental care or surgery.  Without travel insurance, you will be paying out of pocket for these expenses.  Many health and dental plans will not cover expenses out of network and even fewer emergencies may be covered when you are out of the country.

In a worst case scenario, you or your partner dies while on vacation, there will be expenses to get the body home.  Since preparations must be made to move a body, these are likely more significant than booking a seat on the next flight.

Most people think of travel insurance as a way to cover their expenses should they need to cancel, however travel insurance may offer so much more:    It may pay for replacement clothing and supplies if your luggage is delayed;  it may reimburse you for lost luggage;   It may cover medical expenses if you are injured or fall ill;   If your trip is cancelled or interrupted for any reason, your trip insurance may provide some protection and/or cover all or at least part of the associated expenses;   If you injure someone while driving a rental vehicle, your travel insurance may offer third party liability;  If you are the victim of a hotel/motel burglary, or you have items stolen while on a train (or at the beach, or while on tour or….) your insurance may replace your valuables;   If you have a death  or dismemberment while traveling, your policy may provide repatriation and/or offer liability coverage;  If political unrest suddenly breaks out and repatriation is required, you policy may provide for emergency evacuation.

Like most insurances, a small investment up front can protect you for most disruptions while offering peace of mind while you travel.

In general, the more complicated and/or expensive the itinerary, the more beneficial it is to have insurance.

For most international travel it is worth taking out insurance.

The more challenging your health history, the more beneficial it is to have additional insurance.

Trip insurance is usually less expensive the further out it is purchased.  Sometimes there are incentives to purchasing within days of finalizing your plans (such as covering pre-existing health conditions).

Always read the fine print to understand what your insurance will and won’t cover and the terms for each portion of your policy. Not all policies cover everything,

Always check with your existing policies (homeowners, auto, medical and life) to see what coverage you may already have.

Some credit cards offer additional protections based on your status.

If you will be doing high risk adventures such as scuba diving or jumping from planes, you may consider adding accident insurance to your travel insurance.

It can be overwhelming to choose a travel insurance.  There are many insurance companies to choose from and depending on your itinerary, activities, health and expenses, you may need different coverage.  We like using the website www.insuremytrip.com to help narrow down which policy will best suit for our needs.

 

“T” is for Tips and Tricks-ABC’s of Airline Travel

Here is a list of our best tips for airline travel:

  • When booking your flight, allow enough time between connecting flights. We usually strive for 1 ½ hours.  Generally this allows for minor delays.   If we are traveling internationally, these layovers may involve clearing customs and security.  In this case we allow between 2-2 1/2 hours layover because we must claim our bags and go through the security check all over again.   In either case, we look to see how many more “chances” there will be to catch another flight, if for some reason our connecting flight gets cancelled or delayed.
  • Choose your seat. I prefer knowing where I am going to sit.  I want to be with my family if possible.  My husband has very long legs, so he must always have an aisle seat.  If we can upgrade to gain a for a few more inches of legspace, we often do so.  Websites such as seat guru can often tell you the advantages and disadvantages to choosing certain seats.  Surprises such as finding you are sitting next to a bathroom, or that the seats don’t recline, can make travelling a very unpleasant experience.
  • Download airline/airport apps. These can help you see gate changes and flight delays.  The airport apps often offer layouts for each terminal.  Knowing where you are going if you are rushing can save precious minutes.
  • Purchase or borrow luggage which can be pulled or pushed. Carrying heavy bags when you are also having to run for a flight is never easy.  A backpack is also a good option.
  • Check size and weight restrictions of luggage before flying. Realizing you are 1 lb over the limit and getting charged an extra $50-$100 because of it is a sure fire way to start off on the wrong foot.  The same is true for oversize luggage. Many airlines have overall dimensions of luggage.  This is the length x width x depth.
  • Know how many pieces and what constitutes a personal item. Carry on luggage may be subjected size and weight restrictions.  Again, this helps to avoid those extra charges.   Some international flights are very specific about what constitutes a personal item.  Small commuter planes often don’t have the ability to store even regular size carry ons (see gate checking luggage).
  • Place a contact sheet and itinerary page inside each suitcase and carry on. This is usually the last thing I pack so that if the case is opened, it will be the first thing someone sees.   If my luggage is lost, this simple piece of paper will help reconnect me with my bags.
  • Label all luggage on the outside. Use a luggage tag, or one of the tie on pieces located at the check in desk.  For safety, your personal information should be covered (the tie on tags fold and tuck).  If you are shopping for luggage tags, look for the kind with a security flap.
  • Pack all prescriptions in original containers. Always carry your prescription medication in your carry on.  If this is not possible, make sure to have a few extra days of the medication in the carry on.
  • Pack your carry on as if you might need to gate check your case. Full flights often run out of overhead storage.  When this happens, the remaining passengers will be asked to gate check their luggage.  Always remove your id & passports and anything else of importance if you are asked to gate check.  Gate checked luggage is different than normal checked baggage.  The carry on items will be tagged and stored in a special location on the plane.  Ground crew will deliver the luggage to the walkway once the plane lands.  Unfortunately gate checked luggage is not tagged to move on to your next destination, so if there are challenges with the machines/people who are unloading it, it can make you late to catch your next flight since you must wait for this luggage.  This is what happened to about half the plane on our last flight, after the hydraulics broke on the lift which bring the bags up.  I have never seen so many angry people.
  • Having a foldable shopping bag packed on top of your luggage or in a side pocket is helpful. This can be a store bought pouch or a paper shopping bag.   If you are forced to gate check your carry on, this bag allows you to transfer your most needed items quickly, just remember this is going to go under the seat in front of you, so take only your essentials. *Always keep cash, ID, passports and prescriptions with you.
  • Before leaving for the airport, think about how you will dress.  Dress for speed. No underwire bras (they set off the alarm and almost guarantee a pat down).  Easy to remove jackets or cardigans are easier than those which need pulling over your head.  Slip off shoes ae easier than lace ups (remember to wear footies if you are not wearing socks, you don’t want to stand in that line barefoot…yuck).  *Always wear shoes you can run in…you never know when those gate changes are going to happen or when your flights make a connection very close.  If you want high heels or flip flops, carry them in the carry on and change once you reach your gate.
  • Dress in layers. Planes can be too hot and too cold.  Extra clothing can always double as a pillow.
  • Speaking of pillows, they do not count as luggage.  If you find you don’t have enough space in your carry on, you can put a coat, clothing or other soft items in a zippered pillow case.  This will serve multiple functions as you travel.
  • Arrive 2-3 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. In large international airports, you may need every minute of this time to clear security.  Smaller airports may only need 1-1 1/2 hours.   If you find yourself with extra time, go shopping, get a bite to eat, look at art or hang out in a lounge but don’t stress yourself by arriving at the airport late.
  • If you are parking a car, write down your parking space number and/or take a photo with your cell phone.  You will thank me when you return.
  • Always carry some cash. If you become stranded at an airport or while en-route, there is never a guarantee that ATM’s and/or online credit card systems will be functioning. Depending on how far I am traveling, how many overlays I have and where I am going,  I usually carry enough to pay for a meal, a car rental and a hotel room.  (Generally about $50-$250).  There is a limit to how much cash can be carried (usually $10,000) , so make sure to declare it, especially if you are transiting between countries.  When declaring your cash, be sure to include travelers checks and cashiers checks.
  • Carry some food and snacks. If a flight is cancelled, you may find yourself overnighting in an airport.  Stores may be closed.  If a flight is delayed and sitting at a gate or on the tarmac, there will be no food/drink service.
  • Pack a USB charger. Our phones carry the equivalent of a computer these days.  They replace cameras, MP3 players and books.  They carry our calendars, address books, maps and more.  Having them functioning at all times can prevent a lot of stress. There are many ways to use up your battery on a cell phone…photos, reading,  listening to music and/or watching movies.  Having a USB charger allows you to recharge while waiting for a flight and/or if your flight is delayed.  The charger can often be used on the plane too.  Just toss one in the carry on, you will be happy you did!
  • Check in online when possible. This helps to prevent standing in line.
  • Pack liquids and gels in a see through quart sized zip lock bag. Place the bag towards the top of your carry on case or in an outside pocket for easy removal.  You will be asked to remove these if you do not have Global Entry.
  • Pack electronics toward the top of your carry on. You will be asked to remove these if you don’t have Global Entry.
  • Choose the furthest left queue in the security line, it is generally less busy.
  • Remove jewelry, belts and jackets before you get in line, or while standing in line. Don’t be “that” person who slows the process by not being ready to move through security.   All of these items can be placed inside luggage if you have room.  Otherwise follow the steps below:
  • Remove your passport and boarding pass (these are carried through the scanner).
  • Place jackets and coats in the first bin.
  • Place electronics (laptop, Ipads, Kindles etc) in  a separate bin.
  • Place shoes and wallet/purse and jewelry together in the last bin, that way you will never forget to pick up your wallet and valuables.
  • Send your luggage through the scanner.
  • Once past security, purchase or fill a water bottle. Hydration is the best way to combat jet lag and helps to prevent airborne illnesses.
  • Consider purchasing coffee or tea before boarding the plane. The water on the plane has been stored in large containers which are never cleaned.  This is the wate tea and coffee are made with.
  • Listen for announcements. It is easy to pass the time by plugging into headphones but miss the announcement of a gate change and you can be left running.
  • Watch for changes around the waiting area. Did everyone suddenly leave?  You better check the departure board.

 

When you have done all that you can to prepare, you can sit back knowing that you are ready for “almost” anything.  Enjoy your stress free vacation

“L” is For Lightweight Luggage-Packing Tips and Tricks

Don’ t waste your weight limits by owning heavy suitcases!  On a recent trip, I weighed our cases before I even began packing.  They weighed over 13 pounds and this was before I had even added one pair of socks!

With average weight restrictions on most flights being only 50 pounds, I was frustrated with giving up over 20% of the maximum allowance to the suitcase.  But where to begin looking for a new case?

There are so many options when it comes to luggage.  Since we would be making a substantial financial investment in them, I wanted to give some thought to what we needed.

My body is aging and lifting cases has become more difficult over the years.   I want to be able to move the cases easily.  I was looking for a case which could be pushed or pulled.  My last wish was for adjustable handles, since there is a significant height difference between my husband and I.

We knew we would be taking these cases around the world.  I needed them to be sturdy but as light as possible since we might be away for long trips, which might require a lot of clothing.

There were many things which distracted me while I was shopping, such as built in power banks, but sticking to my original wishes, I realized these would just  weigh the bag down.

A little research and a shopping trip later, we ended up with these great bags from Travel Pro.   With over 8,000 reviews, customers consistently expressed how happy they were with the cases.  Many had completed hundreds of trips and still saw the bags outperforming others.  I was sold.

The Travelpro Maxlight 5 is regularly featured on many travel blogs (which is how I had found it).There are 4 different size options ranging from carry on to 29″.  There is also an underseat tote.

We chose the 26″ for our needs.  This large suitcase weighs just 7.5 pounds!  This gave me an additional 5+ pounds of wiggle room, compared to our older luggage.

With 10 choices of colors, the most difficult decision was which one to choose. In the end, we defaulted to our trustworthy black.  Although we loved many of the color choices, we worried that some of the lighter ones might show the dirt (even though they are stain restistant), we just wanted low maintenance.  We also knew that we would eventually tire of the colored cases,  or they would become obsolete in time.  Since we expect to keep these for a while, we stuck with the tried and true.

There were additional features which attracted us to this luggage such as:

  • spinner wheels- so we don’t have to pull the case.
  • multiple locking positions on the handle-adjusts for tall/short people.
  • a water and stain resistant exterior- which is handy if the case sits outside in inclement weather (as ours did on our 2021 trip to England).
  • side handles AND top handles-for easy grabbing in every direction off of those overfull baggage carousels.
  • an expanding zipper- which adds an additional 2 inches of depth to the case.  Great when you buy too many souvenirs.
  • many zippered sections-to tuck in those odd items.
  • a separate lid pocket-great for separating and organizing.
  • patterned interior-this was especially helpful with the small tote.  No more caverns of dark fabric when reaching into a deep bag.
  • interior straps-to keep the contents snug.

 

 

Airline Travel Tips & Tricks

There are many things about airline travel which can make your journey just a little easier.  We have organized these tips and tricks alphabetically.  If it is highlighted it will link to a supporting story.  Check back often as we add to our growing list of tips & tricks.

A

Airline Lounges

 

B

Boarding Passes

 

C

Connecting Flights

 

D

Delayed Flight Benefits

 

E

Emergency Travel Budget

 

F

Flight Apps

 

G

Global Entry

 

H

Hydrate

 

I

Inflight entertainment

 

J

Jetlag

 

K

 

L

Luggage

 

M

Meal Orders in Advance

 

N

Noise Cancelling Headphones

 

O

 

P

Priority Pass

 

Q

 

R

Reward Members

 

S

Security

 

T

Tips & Tricks

TSA Approved Snacks

Transport Services

 

U

Understanding Airline Rules

 

V

 

W

Water and Liquids

X

Y

Z