TYW Travel Tips

Make two copies and scan all important documents such as your passport and credit cards. Email yourself a scanned copy, leave one copy at home and take one with you – just in case!
Get a good night’s sleep before your voyage. If traveling east get to bed earlier and if traveling west and stay up a bit later.
Hydrate! Drink plenty of water and cut out caffeine at least two days before you leave. This will help with jet lag.
Make sure all your immunizations are up to date and any shots you may need are done.
Inform your bank of your trip if you plan on using any credit cards or bank machines and be sure your personal identification number is four digits!

Make a list of everything you think you’ll need. (Most hotels provide hair dryers and shampoo.)
Don’t over pack! You will be responsible for your own luggage. In order to enhance your experience we often stay in historical hotels that may not have elevators.
Plan to dress comfortable and casual, with one dressier outfit.
Avoid bringing new shoes; chances are you’ll be walking a LOT.
Leave expensive jewelry at home. If you like that diamond bracelet, so will a pick-pocket.

Arrive early. Security measures and unknowns in airports can cause delays.
Only a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes is allowed in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. Containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less per item. Speed up your screening by separating these from your other carry-on baggage in advance. Larger containers must be transported in checked baggage.
Avoid wearing accessories containing metal as they may trigger the metal detectors.
Chew gum or candy to alleviate pressure in your ears during take off and landing.

Enjoy everything! This is your “Once in a Lifetime” journey.
Read, learn and embrace the culture around you. The more you know about the place you are visiting the more you can appreciate it.
Keep a journal. Document what you have done each day and include ticket stubs, menus brochures and maps.
Have an open mind and always expect the unexpected. If you want your destination to be like home; stay home. Not all trips go as planned. There may be inevitable delays, bad weather or other inconveniences along the way. Keep a positive attitude.
Be mindful of your cell phone. International calls and roaming charges can quickly add up. Instead, ask your guide about buying a phone card in the country you are traveling.
Keep all money and valuables in a money-belt, on your person. Alternately you can choose to keep your valuables in the hotel safe.
Take a ton of pictures! These photos will help you remember and document your travels.
Respect the culture. When entering a church or place of worship, women are expected to have their shoulders and knees covered. Men should wear longer shorts or pants.
Have Fun!