45 Travel Tips for First Time or Infrequent International Travelers

Thanks for the post.

I will add one:

Even if you aren't a detailed itinerary kind of person, have one for your first day (if you are arriving somewhere without much sleep). I am happy to wing-it based upon a loose plan most days, but I am too tired day 1 to make decisions.

Also -- have detailed directions to all your hotels. Nothing like hitting a town (at night, in the rain, on foot) and not know where you are going.

My $.02...

I disagree with #9- isn't it cheaper to get cash from the airport ATM than to exchange cash at the bank? My research and experience says so.

thank you! my husband and i are planning our first international trip this summer (my first--not his--but his was a loooong time ago, and with school) and that was and will be very helpful!

Need to respond to this one:

41. Another very clever idea from Patrick F.: When you reach your destination, go to the first grocery store you see. Make a note of the open and closing times for further reference if you have an emergency (need some Pepto, etc.) and to give you an idea of the shopping times in the area

In Italy or France, if you need Pepto, you're not likely to find it at a grocery store. Most over-the-counter pharmaceuticals need to be bought at a pharmacy.

Reiterating on Steve's posting, I find major bank ATMs to be readily available and give the best rates. Every time I have arrived in Germany (Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich airports) I have found a major bank's ATM. In Munich, it's in the baggage room. The ATM has always charged me the exact Interbank exchange rate - no additional fees. One of my banks charges me no fees or percentage over that, the other bank charges me 1% plus about $1.50 (which one do you think I use?)

Frank II and Ron, welcome back.

"For women, a knee-length dress or skirt and blouse will work"

I don't even wear dresses or skirts at home... pants are more comfortable and pratcial...

Otherwise, mostly very good reccommendations.
Thanks for sharing FrankII !!!

I agree, Toni! Who is this man to suggest how women should dress, anyway?

Who is this man to suggest how women should dress, anyway?

Ralph Lauren, Karl Lagerfeld, Pierre Cardin, Gucci, Lacroix, etc...

:)

Thanks, Frank II. It's good to review before each trip.

i, too, think this should be at the top of the list. it was really helpful, as i'm about to be a first time international traveler in less than three months (YAY!)

also--found this interesting article in the NY Times...

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/18/travel/18praceuro.html