Wednesday, 9 March 2011

Wrinkle Release

If anyone finds the travel size wrinkle release can you post a comment here telling others where to get it?  Thanks!

US Cash

Don't wait until the last minute to get US Cash.  The rate is good and the bank said they are having a big demand for it right now. 

Small Bills

It is good to have some smaller US bills to buy water on the bus (1.00).  Taxi money if you go shopping at night.

Small souivners.  Bargain better with small bills.  Hold up 2.00 and say "2.00?"   If you have a 20 they will say "5.00".

So if you are able get some 1's, 5's and 10's as well as your 20's. 

Caution:  all bills are green.  Don't confuse a 20 for a 1 !!!  It happens often!

Remember the tip also to only have a small amount in your purse that you carry on the outside.  Store other cash in money belt or pouch underneath clothing.

Our preference is this belt one.  You can put on belt and flip over under your skirt or pants or you can pin to your skirt underneath by the tab section.  Holds passport as well.


Antihistamines

Many people suffer from allergies when they travel to new areas especially in the spring time.  It would be advisable to carry some non drowsy antihistamines on your trip. 

You can get the 24 hour non drowsy tablet.  Another method would be to use a 12 hour regular tablet at night to help you sleep and then a 12 hour non drowsy for the day.

Monday, 7 March 2011

Good quote!

He who would travel happily must travel light.
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Good Tips I found

  • Make sure that someone knows your travel plans, and can deal with emergencies (do they have a key?) in your absence.
  • Suspend your mail delivery, or have it forwarded appropriately (to a rented P.O. box if a long trip makes it necessary).
  • Cancel your newspaper delivery.
  • Inform your credit card issuer(s) of your travel dates & locations, else they might suspend your account(s) when unexpected charges appear from far afield.
  • Make arrangements for the care of any pets in your charge.
  • Adjust your thermostat settings & check its batteries as appropriate.
  • Clean your toilets, and anything else prone to "growing" stuff when you're not around.
  • Check your refrigerator & other storage locations for food that could spoil.
  • Turn off taps, on washing machines and anything else that could leak or freeze while unattended.
  • Dispose of your garbage.
  • Schedule the payment of any bills that might come due during your trip; switching to on-line payment options can facilitate this. If using a cellular telephone with a prepaid plan, ensure that it has sufficient remaining time.
  • Inspect all your doors and windows to ensure that they are secure; garage doors can be "locked" by inserting a large bolt through one of the tracks in which the door rides (there are usually holes for this; if not, drill one). If you use an alarm service, notify them of your plans, and let them know who to contact for emergencies.
  • If you live in snow country, consider how a virgin snowfall (or drift) makes it obvious that your house is unoccupied. When appropriate, arrange with a neighbour to create car and foot tracks into the house. Or even shovel/plow.
  • Unplug things (don't just turn them off); your gadgets will be safer and more rested, and why pay for electricity to keep remote controls functional while you're away? That said, leaving a couple of lights on when you're away gives your house an "occupied" look; use energy-saving bulbs, ideally on a timer. For an even more crafty/elaborate approach, consider using a fake TV.
  • Water your plants.
  • Get Travel Insurance

One Week to Go!

The countdown has started!!!  One week to go!

Watching the weather and not liking it so far.  Lots of rain.  Hopefully that will all pass and we will have sunshine!  Be prepared with an umbrella and waterproof jacket. 

The temp has varied so much I am not sure what to take as of today.  I will make that decision closer to departure.

You will need a sweater or light jacket even if the forecast says it will be warm.  For the plane which can be very chilly, the nights, and Frankfurt.  This won't add weight to your suitcase if you wear it on the plane.

Also, we know we can never completely trust the weather man!  You don't want to get stuck without a sweater or jacket and be miserable.  Layering is for sure the key!