Traveling out of the country can be an exciting and very educational experience for you and your family. However, a large amount of preparation is involved, but it doesn't need to be stressful. There are some things you can do in order to get you and your family ready for a great trip. First, be sure to obtain valid passports and visas if you need them. Spend a moment and fill out the emergency pages in your American passport in case you misplace them.
A credit card is always a better option over cash in a foreign country. Having a credit card saves you from having to exchange money, which comes with a conversion fee. It also protects you from people who recognize that you are a foreigner and try to rip you off. Do your best to learn the conversion rate. Shopping can often be misleading if you don't know exactly how much you're spending in American Dollars.
Avoid dressing like you’re from out of town. You don't want to make yourself stand out from the crowd, which can make you a good target for criminals. Don't use your expensive handbags and don't wear your expensive jewelry. Take all Social Security cards, library cards out of your wallet and put them in a pouch to keep around your neck. Taking the unnecessary credit cards out of your wallet along with other forms of identification can ultimately protect you from identity theft should your purse or backpack get stolen. Make copies of your ID and your passports, and make sure they are in a very secure place. These will be your best friends in case your stuff gets stolen.
Learn a few key phrases in the local language. You would be surprised how far this gets you in a foreign country. The locals with appreciate the effort you make in trying to blend in with their community as opposed to expecting to be accommodated. Make sure you know the local laws and customs. When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to these laws, even if you are not a citizen. Also, knowing the customs help more than you would think. In some places, burping is considered a compliment. Knowing these customs prevents you from accidentally offending anyone.
Keep first-aid with you at all times. Keeping some ibuprofen, antibacterial ointment, bandages, and other medical necessities such as prescriptions on you frees you from having to figure out another country's equivalent. Also, bring your own water or a filtering water container. Even if the water is clean, it may be treated to different chemicals or minerals that your stomach may not be used to. Make sure you and your family are up to date with your shots. Different immunizations are suggested for every country you may enter, and making sure your family gets these shots can potentially save you from a really terrible sickness.
Some great memories and experiences await when you are traveling the world. With a little preparation and some good advice, you and your family can have a great time exploring other countries. So get your family some U S passport using one of the reputable passports services, and pack your bags, because the whole world is yours for the discovering.
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