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You have decided to spend up large and go on vacation. It’s costing a lot, but hey – you only live once, right? If you are new to traveling, you will want to optimize your chances of having an enjoyable time by considering these tips for before, during, and after travel.

1. Look for the best fares

Competition for passengers is strong amongst major airlines. Look online for specials – booking online can be considerably cheaper than booking through a travel agent. However, you need to take care that the airline you choose has a good reputation for safety – online research will help you make such decisions.

2. Do your homework

While there is a lot to be said for serendipity in travel, there is even more to be said for knowing where you are going. This includes finding out about the climate (both physical and political) of the countries you will be visiting and taking notice of any travel advisories concerning political unrest, disease and so on. For example, travel in Zimbabwe is not a safe option at present, because of the military regime and a widespread cholera epidemic.

3. Get the shots

Find out in good time, before you travel, what vaccinations you need for the countries you will visit. Arrange with your doctor to have the shots well in advance so you are feeling fine by the time you leave home.

4. Organize your life

Make arrangements to stop mail and newspapers; ask someone to care for your pets and water your plants – do whatever is needed to enable you to gain peace of mind and to depart with a light heart.

5. Travel light

One suitcase (preferably with wheels) as checked luggage and one carry-on bag should see you right around the world. Depending on where your travel leads you, two of each basic item (skirt, trousers, shirt) plus a warm jacket and enough underwear for a week (for women – ditto for men minus the skirts) will be enough. It is likely you will find places to do laundry, so keep it simple, making use of color co-ordination as much as possible.

6. Take toiletries

In small containers, pack soap, toothpaste, essential cosmetics, sunscreen – all the items you may not be able to find away from home base. Do not try to carry toiletries in your carry-on luggage – you may be asked to throw them away before boarding your plane.

7. Remember medications

If you need to get a prescription filled, make sure it is ready before you leave. Some countries require that you carry a note from your doctor concerning certain medications. Over-the-counter drugs are more easily obtained at home.

8. Watch the water

Drinking water, that is, including water for brushing your teeth and water that is used to wash fruit and vegetables. Remember that people who have lived in an area all their life have built up immunity to local diseases. You have not. Drink bottled water where possible. When that is not possible, stick to well known drinks like Coke.

9. Stay visible

Leave a copy of your itinerary (and of your passport) with a friend or family member and arrange to contact them a couple times while you are away, by phone or email, so someone knows where you are (or should be) at all times.

10. Have fun

When all your preparations have been made, relax. Meet people, talk, see new places and be open to new experiences. And don’t forget the photos, to show those envious folk back home.

See Also:

• Thinking About Traveling?
• Mauritania Travel
• BEAUTY Calls! - A Travel to Deserts in INDIA