Travel Guide

International Travel

Do not announce your final destination, or your length of stay to fellow passengers; the information may be overheard

Always check the number of seats or rows to the nearest emergency exit when first boarding the aircraft

Keep passports, traveling documents, money and other valuables either in a concealed money belt, or in a carry-on flight bag that you can keep an eye on; when going to the bathroom take any valuable items and important documents with you

On luggage tags rather give an office address without the name of the company in the holder; do not include personal details

When passing through airport security keep an eye on any items that go through the baggage scanners; try to go through security points as the items pass through the scanner

Always pack your own bag and do not offer to carry any parcels that you maybe unsure as to what is inside

When traveling across borders overland in a vehicle that you do not own, or rent, it is better to get out and walk across the border than remain in a vehicle that might contain goods that you are unaware of

Hotel

Have money for tipping the doormen/porters ready; avoid opening money holders and revealing amounts of currency that you have on you

Lock any valuables and travel documents in the hotel safe, and rather carry around photocopies of your passport and necessary visas

Request a hotel key that does not have your room number printed on it to prevent anyone who might find the key knowing what room it is for, or rather hand in the key to the front desk each time you leave the hotel

Having satisfied yourself that the door locks are in proper working order, remember to check them before retiring for the night

When inside a hotel room, irrespective of the length of stay, always use the deadbolt on the door. If the door has a safety chain, twist it to take up the slack before latching it

Do not open your room door unless you can confirm the identity of the person on the other side. Remember, not all criminals and potential attackers are the tough and aggressive types. Confidence tricksters prey on your vulnerability and will offer many reasons to get you to open your door; they may even claim to be hotel staff members or security staff. If in doubt, call reception to confirm the caller's identity before opening the door

A "Please make up my room" sign outside your door advertises that the room is empty. If you want your room cleaned, arrange it through the hotel housekeeper or reception

If when returning to your hotel, you find that your room door is unlocked or appears to have been tampered with, do not enter the room; request assistance from reception. If your room security has been breached, consider asking for another room

It is advisable to deposit the room key at reception when booking out. Do not leave it in the door and do not leave the door open when you finally leave your room. Should anything be stolen from the room you may find yourself liable for the cost of its replacement

Local Travel

If you are planning to drive in the country you are traveling to, make sure your license is current and a valid form of license for the country

Check-up on the road and traffic laws before driving and also be aware that being a visitor does not exclude you from being fined for any traffic offense you may commit. If you are unsure why you have been pulled over, or if the police approaching you seem suspicious, keep your window closed and show your license through the glass

When walking around consult a map before you go out, by knowing where you are going you will look more confident; be aware of your surroundings and use a pocket size map if looking at one in the street; avoid unlit streets and areas that seem deserted

Have small change or a few low denomination bank notes in your pocket for easy access, especially when traveling on public transport; when going out carry only one credit card, photocopies of important documents, and only as much money as you think you'll need for that day

When catching taxis try to use established taxi companies or ask airport information and hotel reception for reputable taxi drivers; carry around the number of the taxi company for future reference

Take down the taxi driver's name and the car's registration when entering the car as an insurance if you feel the driver needs to be reported; requesting such information also warns the driver not to take you on any 'scenic' routes

Ask someone at hotel reception, or an information bureau, to write down the destination you wish to go to, in case the driver does not speak your language

Passport, Visa and Photography

Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date, that you have the necessary visas and that you have the requisite two blank pages in your passport; take another form of identification with you and leave copies of all documents, and itineraries, at home. Try to keep in regular contact with family and friends through email, phone or fax

The use of cameras and binoculars may be restricted to certain areas in the country, especially near military sites, airports and government institutions; if in doubt ask locals before using any equipment

Health

Before traveling make sure you have the necessary vaccinations, and are aware of any health precautions you should take while away

If you need to take prescribed medicines while traveling, keep the medicines in the original containers, and also carry a doctor's letter explaining the prescriptions.

Etiquette

Before visiting a country find out about local laws, customs and culture to ensure you dress appropriately. Do not break any laws that may be a direct result of the countries culture, or behave in a manner that may seem insulting to locals

Have a phrase book with you at all times, and learn a few key phrases in case of emergencies

In the Case of an Emergency

Civil unrest: stay away from any crowds; peaceful demonstrations can often turn violent; return to your hotel and listen to any local news on TV or radio

Natural disaster: listen to local weather reports and warnings and follow any advice given

Keep in contact with family members or friends to let them know you are safe, visit your country's embassy for further advice

Please contact us for travel insurance.