TOP TRAVEL TIPS
Before you go :
- Plan it BUT always leave a few days as FREE TIME to allow for unexpected delights where you may want to stay longer.
- Check the latest travel advice and subscribe to receive free email notifications each time the advice for your destination is updated.
- Tell as many people as you can where you are planning on going – you never know who may have already been and can give you some great first hand tips.
- Check your medications - also find out about taking medication overseas - certain medicines aren't allowed in some countries.
- Pack light – you really won’t need all those clothes and you need to have room to pack all your holiday purchases to bring home.
- Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.
- Have extra passport photos with you in case your passport is lost or stolen and you need to replace it while you're away.
- Cancel any regular deliveries you may have to your home and ask a neighbour to collect your mail.
- Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals, email yourself a copy to your internet accessible e-mail account and leave a copy with someone at home.
When you’re there :
- Take the first day or 2 to just relax and get familiar with the local area.
- Don’t leave valuables unattended or unsecured.
- Eat in busy places where the locals are eating. If the locals love it, it’s generally the safest and tastiest.
- Don't judge just enjoy it for what it is.
- Take photos where appropriate – photography is not permitted in certain situations so be familiar and respectful of local customs and laws.
- Obey the laws of the country you're visiting even if these seem harsh or unfair by Australian standards. Don't expect to be treated differently from the locals just because you're Australian.
- Keep in contact with friends and family back home and give them a copy of your itinerary so they know where you are.
- Always LOGOFF after you’re finished using any internet café computers.
- Be prepared to change plans to make the most of local activities you may not have planned for but are too good to miss!!