Our goal is to make travel easy and to lend support when necessary!

Since our goal is to make travel easy and to lend support when necessary, we thought that perhaps we should deal with travel tips to smooth out those bumps in the road that will undoubtedly arise as we leave the comforts of out armchairs to discover and explore.  But remember, that ultimately, we are here.  Just a phone call or an email away.  With a travel professional you are NOT on your own.  

 Tip #1  Check you passport.  Be sure it is not due to expire until at least 6 months from the end of your trip and also be sure there are at least 2 blank pages for "stamps", so as not to render the passport invalid for entry to some countries.  Make a copies, leave one with a trusted contact at home, and place another with you in a place apart from the actual document.  We recommend passport holders that can be worn under your garments, but easily accessible.  There is nothing that can ruin a trip faster than a stolen, lost or invalid passport.

Tip #2  PACK RIGHT, PACK LIGHT.  The best way to achieve this goal is to make a detailed checklist , lay out your items before placing them in the suitcase, coordinate "interchangeable garments" in similar colors , and then eliminate, don't add.  We also suggest that when traveling with a companion that you "share" suitcases.  Put some of each type of garment for each person in separate cases.  If one gets lost, you will still have a useful wardrobe.  And don't forget at least some small "essentials " in your carry-on.  A light ,complete change could save the day.   Don't forget the new 3-1-1 security rules for liquids, gels, creams and pastes.  For the latest info and other invaluable airport info visit www.tsa.gov . 

Tip #3  Notify your credit card companies.  There is nothing more frustrating than having you bank freeze your card while you are using it half way around the world for "suspected fraudulent use".  While you are at it, check your banks policy on international fees. They can vary from free to over 3% on top of international exchange rates.  Be sure to record the banks contact number in a place apart from the card (not just the toll free, which will not be valid from abroad).  Take at least two cards, and carry them in two distinct different places.  i.e. one with you passport, one in your wallet.  If you have two cards and there are two travelers, each of you carry a different card.  In the event of theft, loss, or a "frozen card you will still have the ability to charge.

Tip#4  Travel Insurance. Buy it!   I can't say enough about this invaluable protection, which should also have 24 hour emergency assistance.  This could be a literal life saver.  Check with us to see which policies best suit your individual needs.  Personally, I never travel without it.

Tip #5  USE A TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL.  When those unexpected "bumps" appear, pick up the phone and let us assist you.  We strive to avoid problems before they occur, but when unavoidable, it is better to correct them NOW rather than to accept disappointment.  We want to help you make the most of your trip.