Important Tips for Traveling Abroad

You might think that touring a foreign country is easy and that you don't need to know a whole lot in advance. To make the most of your traveling experience, however, there are many things you should know about your destination ahead of time. Being a good tourist does not just mean collecting a lot of souvenirs and taking a multitude of photos.

Here are important tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable stay in a foreign country.

Make several photo copies of your passport.

Leave in secure places with people you trust 100 percent. Carry a copy with you in a secure place away from your original passport. Doing so will help expedite an emergency replacement in case you lose your passport (or it gets stolen).

Before you board the plane, learn about the culture of the country you are visiting.

Your stay in a foreign land will be more pleasant if you know something about the social habits and customs of the country you are visiting. The internet makes this much easier. Cultural tidbits are just a few keystrokes away.

Do not carry large amounts of cash.

No matter which country you are visiting, or how safe you may feel, there is always the chance you will be mugged. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Opt for travelers checks which can be replaced if lost or stolen.

Do not wear flashy jewelry.

Avoid looking like a "rich American tourist." Leave expensive-looking jewelry at home. You don't want to tempt thieves.

Stay alert.

Criminals such as pickpockets often target tourists because tourists tend to be distracted and weary. Maintain an alert profile and practice common sense with your attire--for instance, carry your wallet in your front pocket rather than in your back pocket.

Do not assume customer service follows the same guidelines everywhere.

What is considered appropriate and respectful differs from country to country. Rules regarding Tips, for instance, vary greatly. In the parts of Germany I have been to, for instance, one never leaves a tip on the table. Politeness dictates that if you do tip, you either hand it directly to the server or indicate that you do not need change.

Learn important emergency phrases in the language of your destination.

Learn how to ask for general assistance. Learn how to request medical assistance. If you have a medical condition, learn the name for it and how to pronounce it in the language of the country you are visiting.

Carry a map and a phrase book with you.

Unless you are already fluent in the language and really know your way around, do not leave your hotel without these important items.

Learn the locations of the nearest hospitals.

Additionally, if you take medications, or have a medical condition, carry this information on you in both English and the language of the country you are visiting.

If you follow these guidelines and practice common sense and courtesy during your trip, your trip abroad should go much more smoothly.