Going to another country for the holidays is a great way to learn about a new culture. In some instances, the travel is to visit family located there instead of just for a vacation. Regardless of why you are traveling to another country during the holidays, you need to make sure you are prepared for the trip.
Passports
For most countries, you will need a passport with a photo ID. This will allow you to remain in the country for a specified amount of time. Generally, this time frame is from 30 days to 90 days. You can take your passport photo at any post office, but it will take several weeks to get it back. There is an expedited option, and it is costly. If you wait until the holiday time to obtain your passport, it will take much longer, even for the expedited option.
Make sure you keep your passport and other pertinent travel documents in a safe place. You don’t want them to get lost or stolen, which can delay your travel plans. Make sure you arrive early for your flight so that you can get through all of the necessary inspections and verifications in plenty of time.
2. Travel Vaccines
There may be vaccinations that you are required to get, and you are encouraged to call before traveling to certain countries for the holidays. Plan and find out what these vaccinations are, and then schedule appointments with your doctor.
3. Money Exchange
Depending on where you are traveling, you may have to deal with a different type of currency. You can get your money exchanged at your local bank before you leave. This will save you time when you arrive in the other country for the holidays. There may be language differences as well that you need to take into consideration.
4. Packing
Be careful what you pack when you travel for the holidays. Most modes of transportation have strict guidelines on the size of your luggage, how many bags each person can have, and the weight guidelines. They will be enforcing these restrictions during the holidays because of the volume of people traveling. You don’t want to get rid of some of your items or purchase more bags at the gift shop.
5. Suvinears
Make sure you are aware of how much luggage you have for your return trip as well. At the same time, it can be fun to purchase items while there; think about how you will get them back. It may be a good idea to pack an extra bag in your luggage when you go so you can fill it up for the trip back. Another idea is to have items shipped, but that can be pretty expensive.
While traveling to another country for the holidays can be exciting, you need to remember that their customs may differ significantly from your own. Be respectful of such differences to avoid conflicts while in that country. It is a good idea to read about the various customs in place so you won’t reach them by accident.
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Jeana Kruetzkamp
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