Travel Advice

Saturday, May 08, 2010

Did you know unlike Russia, a Visa is not required to the Ukraine?

For USA, Canada, Japan, EU Nations, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Vatican, Iceland, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Mongolia, Lithuania and the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (except Turkmenistan).

This questions comes-up quite frequently. US Citizens can stay in the Ukraine for up to 90 days. If you plan on a longer stay, only then is a Visa required.

A passport valid for six months beyond the planned date of travel is a requirement.

Written by:

Gabriela Thomas
gabriela@atlastravelweb.com

Sunday, January 31, 2010

As you get ready to travel?

Here are some tips to give you peace of mind while you are away and make sure you do not make your house as a target of opportunity. These are some simple precautions from the experts.

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

Friday, December 04, 2009

General Travel Tips

• Make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your date of travel. Some countries insist that your passport be valid for at least a six-month time period.
• Place an envelope in one of your checked bags containing copies of your passport, birth certificate and a back up form of photo I.D. in case your passport is lost or stolen.
• Place a copy of the detailed itinerary of your trip inside each piece of luggage. If your luggage is lost, this will help the airline locate you while you're traveling.
• If you are on Medicare and traveling outside the United States, be aware that Medicare does not cover any of your medical bills abroad. It's a good idea to get a travel protection policy that will cover these costs.
• Plan at least a day or two after your return home before scheduling any commitments; you may be tired after your journey.

Don't Forget

• Stow away some antibacterial wipes-they're a convenient way to clean up on the go.
• Bring a voltage converter with you, along with an adapter (to fit electrical plugs into foreign outlets). Note that some adapter kits don't include converters.
• Pack an extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts in case they are lost or broken.
• Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are a must. Never pack new shoes.
• Wrap a long strip of duct tape around a pencil and bring it along for the ride. Duct tape is the magic fix for everything from torn suitcases to a broken sandal strap.

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Saturday, November 21, 2009

Whether you are taking a cruise or land vacation, as you prepare for your adventure, remember that the dynamic environments you'll be exploring, as well as your daily activities, call for a different approach to packing. Above all, think comfort first.

Packing

When packing, remember that the weather in this part of the world can change dramatically in a very short time - from sunny and pleasant to breezy, cool, and misty. Ensure you're prepared for any conditions

-Layers, including a sweater for fleece pullover, waterproof and windproof jacket, and knit shirts. When conditions change, you'll appreciate having the ability to add or shed a layer.

-Lightweight shorts and pants as well as both long-sleeve and short-sleeve shirts.

-Comfortable pants and dress slacks.

-Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and warm socks.

-Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunblock, as you're going to be spending a majority of your days outdoors.

Other Essentials

Passport; camera, with extra film of memory cards; insect repellent for shore excursions; resealable plastic bags to prevent water damage to certain items; bathing suits; workout clothes; eveningwear.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

We just received this question from a client, and thought it was worth posting, as many travelers have similar concerns.

Q.  I'm confused about luggage, specifically carry on. Is my purse considered a carry on item? How about my husband's camera case? My husband wants to bring his computer, it is slightly over the 12x11x6 Is this a problem?

A.  #1.  A purse or camera case is not considered a carry on. You can still have a separate carry-on bag.

#2.  As far as your husband's computer, carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation. If it is a very minimal difference, (1 inch,) then it should still fit in the overhead without a problem, but these measurements are given to ensure you will not have any issue while touring.