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Overseas travel, whether for business or pleasure can sometimes be stressful without careful planning. You may end up paying a high room rate or worse still without hotel accommodation if you book too late. You may even end up with insufficient cash or get lost while trying to find your destination. Here are some tips to avoid the unpleasant surprises:

First of all, choose a reputable airline that has years of experience flying to the destination of your choice. Nowadays, several airlines have partner airlines that they do business with and so your trip overseas may comprise flying one leg of the journey in one airline and a second leg with another. In cases like this, make sure both airlines are reputable. Additionally, you want to ensure that there is sufficient time between the arriving time of the first airline and the departing time of the second airline. Consult with the airline office ahead of time regarding their policy on accommodations in case the second airline takes off before the first lands. Many reputable companies will pay for a hotel room and meals while you wait for the next connection. Missed connections are by far the biggest headaches of overseas travelers and you do not want to be arguing with the airline offices in the midst of the crisis. Pre-planning is always helpful.

Secondly, find out the correct rate of currency exchange prior to your travel and see if you can get a small amount of currency exchanged for sundry expenses as soon as you land at your destination. Get to know ahead regarding approximate taxicab fares and rates for meals at your destination so you are budgeting properly for your trip and at the same time do not get overcharged at every step of the way just because you are a tourist. Keep a list of credit card numbers for the credit cards that you plan to carry and make also a notation of the telephone number to call and cancel and get replacement cards just in case your wallet or purse gets stolen.

Thirdly, learn some of the basics of the local language of the place you are planning to go to. You do not need to become an expert, but knowing the basics of the language, especially the emergency terms such as heart pain, stomach pain, need a doctor, calling the police, needing an ambulance, etc can be of great help especially under dire circumstances. Try to see if you can give your whereabouts and local contact data to friends and family back home everyday so they know about your safety and any special needs that you may end up having. Knowing the basic local language will also help you to find directions to your destination and order food in the restaurant or café or even haggle for souvenirs. These tips are likely to make your overseas travel safe and enjoyable.

Your travel can be enjoyable and safe if you plan and prepare ahead. Always bring a small notepad and pen to write in case of emergency or in case you need to ask for directions. With the conveniences of modern technology, information can be gathered at the click of the mouse or a dial on the phone.   

Tags: safety tips for budget travellers, tips for a safe holiday