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- Before leaving on your trip to a foreign country, inform your credit card company and debit card bank that you will be traveling outside of the US. They will typically ask what countries and when.
- Avoid the money exchange kiosks at the airport if possible; withdraw cash at ATMs in the foreign country as they have better exchange rates.
- Although being conscious of your budget is important, be spontaneous and flexible. Make compromises where they will make your trip more enjoyable.
- Make intra-country and inter-country air, train, and automobile arrangements online before leaving the US.
- Remember that the straightest and fastest route is not always the most memorable.
- Make lodging arrangements online before leaving the US.
- Use trip-planning websites like www.visitacity.com to determine what attractions to visit and how to arrange your sightseeing day.
- When traveling with companions, get everyone’s input when deciding on what to see and do, where to stay, and where to eat.
- In addition to printing important documents (i.e. airline tickets, train reservations, etc.) to carry with you, back them up online on websites like Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Download offline maps on Google Maps of the countries being visited just before leaving the US.
- Bring inexpensive earbuds on the trip to use with the handheld self-guided listening devices at the many attractions, particularly at museums.
- Avoid wearing shorts unless going to the beach, swimming, or visiting a thermal bath.