Want to know one women’s secret to shattering the world’s travel record?

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Hey, haven’t you often wondered how you could travel the world and how much time it would cost or could you even afford to do so? I couldn’t even imagine the cost of such traveling and I’m a travel professional. Now, you know I am joking but of course I could figure it out. But really can you imagine!

Not only being able to leave for extended time frames but who would look after your home, plants, etc.  All this comes to mind for me.  With that being said, I came across an amazing article from Travel Pulse, that talks about one women’s journey traveling across the world. Seeing 196 nations in 18 months and 26 days. All I can say is wow.  This must have been an extraordinary task to take on with all the flights and logistics to sort out.

Maybe this will help you to plan your around the world journey and tackle some of your Bucket list items. This could be the inspiration you need to give you some perspective of what it takes to travel like this. Check out the whole article here

Have you considered maybe traveling as a group or simply backpacking alone.  Either way you can’t go wrong when you are doing what you love to do.  I know tons of young students that take off a year of school to see the world and all it has to offer.  Most, will call this enjoying life to the fullest because you are waking up to a different destination about every month of so.   What do you say to that? Sounds awesome, doesn’t it? What may you consider to be the ultimate travel around the world scenario for you.

It could be simple as volunteering on a mission for children in another country or as simple as doing the Semester At Sea program that some of the cruise lines offer. Just a few options for you to consider.  

Looking forward to seeing some of the comments or posting I see regarding this women’s amazing journey and how she captured all the wonderful things she encountered or experience during her travels. I can’t imagine how magnificent she felt being able to enjoy time spent with locals, eat with them and to learn all about their culture.  This would truly be amazing for everyone to enjoy. But back to reality, you have to curve out the vision for yourself if you wanted to do this bad enough.

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Want to Avoid Those Long Airport Lines?

 

Everyone who is a traveler at one time or another has gotten stuck in a long TSA security line. As you stand there waiting your turn, you start to wonder “what are they going to take out of my carry-on this time because it’s not within regulation.

You start stressing wondering if you arrived at the airport early enough to go through security to make your flight without rushing (hoping your deodorant holds). You begin looking around asking yourself “where are all these people going”. Well, there are two different means in which to get quickly through security – not avoid security – but to move swiftly through security.

One is TSA Pre (Transportation Security Administration) which is part of the Department of Homeland Security. The second, Global Entry Program, U.S Customs and Border Protection, which is also part of the Department of Homeland Security.

Have you considered getting either a TSA Pre number or a Global Entry card because there is a difference between the two? Have you ever noticed there are two security check points at the airport? At one station, there is a long line but if you look down the hallway a security guard is looking at tickets and/or a card; these travelers have either a TSA Pre number or Global Entry card – expediting their security screening.

If you travel “only” within the confines of the United States, all you need is the TSA PreBut, if you are someone who travels both in and outside the United States, you should consider the Global Entry card which is also your TSA Pre. To obtain either is easy. The TSA Pre number is valid for five (5) years and the cost is eighty-five ($85.00) dollars. To apply, go to www.tsa.gov and complete the application form.

After completing and submitting the application form, if you qualify, you will receive a TSA Pre eligibility notice via email advising the next step. The Global Entry card is also valid for five (5) years and the cost is one hundred ($100.00) dollars. To apply go to www.cbp.gov  complete and submit the application form. If you qualify, you will receive a notice via email advising of the next step. If you have a TSA Pre number, the Global Entry number will supersede that number (TSA number will be voided).

I just completed the process for a Global Entry card and found it not difficult. The worse part was the length of time waiting for the interview date.

I received notification of preapproval in August and was surprise to find the earliest appointment date was in the month of December- a wait of four (4) months.

Whichever one you choose, TSA Pre or Global Entry card, is totally your choice. But think about how you travel or plan to travel in the future. If you plan to stay within the confines of the United States, I would suggest a TSA Pre.  But if traveling both in and outside the United States, think about a Global Entry card.  Two things – (1) The Global Entry card will not eliminate random searching of luggage.  (2) If you violate any rules or regulations, this privilege will be revoked.

Whatever you do, don’t think either of these cards will keep you from a “random search”.  Wrong; no one knows who they will stop at baggage claim and do a random search of your luggage.  No one knows – that’s why it called “random search”.  What you decide is entirely your decision but think about incorporating either a TSA Pre number or Global Entry card as part of your travel information or documents.    Courtesy of B. Hayes

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5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF TAKING A VACATION

Health

Americans leave a lot of vacation days on the table. Vacations are not only beneficial to our health but also for maintaining sanity and stability in life. While so many of us envision lazing in the sun on the beach rather than working in the office, there are lots of health benefits of taking a vacation that just traveling to one of the most popular spots in the world with a friendly climate. Vacations makes you feel alive and free from the daily stress of life. According to the 2009 International Vacation Deprivation Study by Expedia, over 30% of Americans do not go on vacation for fear of losing their job. So what exactly are the benefits of taking time away from work?

Relieves stress

Chronic stress causes a lot of health implications to our bodies and reduces performance levels both in the home and at workplace. In order to effectively manage the destructive effects of stress on our body, it is advisable to take a break from daily stress and take a vacation. Escaping from our normal life gives the body a chance to repair some of the health damages caused by stress.

Prevents heart disease

One of the major causes of high blood pressure and heart disease is stress. It is however, proven that taking a vacation will help reduce the risks of heart disease. Reports by the Framingham Heart Study in 2010 shows that people who travel more often are on average 40% less likely to die from a heart disease.

Stay focused

Everyone needs to unplug at some point in life to maintain a healthy life and stay focused. Chronic stress is not good for the busman health as it can disrupt the activities of the brain and makes us lose concentration. Working all year round can make people have difficulties concentrating. One of the best ways of combating chronic stress and concentrating while working is taking vacation.

Improved productivity

Upon returning from a week-long vacation, you will find out that your productivity level will be fostered with a great feeling. Vacation is a great way that allow people reconnect with themselves, feel refreshed and concentrate more while working, thus increasing productivity level.

Prevents illness

Stress can cause severe damage to your immune system thus making your vulnerable to varied degree of illness such as cold, headache, joint pain, flu and even cancer. There is no better way to prevent such illnesses than getting far away from work.

HOW TO TRAVEL LIKE A ROCKSTAR!

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Travel is fun and exciting. It offers you the chance to escape the stress of life. Why not book a plane and fly off to some far off destination where there’s nothing but fun. Life is an adventure on its own, and there’s no better way to get the most of it than traveling. One of the best things to do at the airport is people watching as you stand a chance of seeing lots of people from different spheres of life such as business travelers, backpackers, luxury travelers, couples, parents struggling with their kids and above all Rock Stars. Rock Stars are always seen on their leather jackets, scarfs and aviator shades with nothing to worry about. These group of persons have visited many top destinations in the world and they pack light. Have you been looking for the best ways to travel like a rock star? There are plenty of ways through which you can travel like a rock star and escape from your normal life for little while. Here are some fun tips on how to travel like a rock star.

  1. The first thing to think about before going on a trip is knowing what your priorities are. You should know the experiences you crave for? Is it exploring the beaches, shopping, or food? Staying in a swanky place? Or meeting people from different background and culture. Once you figured out what exactly your priorities are for this particular trip, then you should know that it will most definitely take a large part of your Rock Star equity.
  2. The next step is deciding where to go. You need to do plenty of research to know where to find the best restaurant, hotels and bars. If you are planning to travel to France for shopping, you can decide to visit some of the hottest shopping centers such as Isabel Marrant, and Hermes in Paris. For the fact that you are in this hot boutiques, makes you feel like a Rock Star. Remember traveling is all about experience and it is not possible to have it all. All you need do is set aside a small budget to buy anything regardless of how small it is such as scarf or a souvenir and you’re good to go.
  3. Do not forget to wear a pair of aviator glasses, scarf, leather jacket with denim and iPhone with good head phones for great rock and roll music. All these accessories are a must have to make you feel like a rock star

5 TIPS TO CREATING PERFECT GROUP VACATION

Create Vacation

If you have a core group of friends or family members that you spend quality time with, then planning a group vacation will further build the bond and love you share with your loved ones. All you need to do is plan properly and encourage constant communication between parties. With these in place, then you can create one of the most memorable group vacation of all time and your friendship will grow stronger after the vacation is over. Here are some of the best tips to create a flawless group vacation.

Proper Plan
One of the things to do when putting together a group vacation is proper planning. Bring all parties together and discuss on extensively on the parameters of the trip including where, when and how to go, things to do, what to pack, type of trip (hiking, beach or skiing) and much more. The next thing is appointing one or two persons, either by voting or volunteer, who will be in charge of the trip. The individual will be saddled with the responsibility of providing detailed information on the latest developments such as hotels, flight or restaurant reservations to the other group members.

Destination
Another great factor to consider when putting together a group vacation is choosing a perfect destination. Opt for a destination that everyone would really love to explore. This can be easily done by coming up with an idea you feel everyone would enjoy and take a vote.

Create a unique Facebook page
Nowadays almost everyone has a smartphone with a Facebook profile. One of the easiest ways of communication to other group members and have them actively involved in the group is creating a Facebook page. This page also offers great opportunity for participants to upload and share photos related to the trip.

Budget
The next step is coming up with a budget and even create an account where participants can deposit money. This will make plans for the trip go smooth and easy. With this, you can easily make reservations for hotels and restaurants without having financial issues.

Put things in perspective
When planning a group vacation, it is important that you engage in activities that will involve every member- rather than focusing on individual activity. Make sure the aim of the trip is accomplished which is to spend quality time with each other and get to know more about yourselves. On the other hand, you don’t have to be too rigid. You can decide to give some few hours of freedom for participants to explore the area on their own and at their own pace.

BEST GROUP VACATION DESTINATIONS IN THE U.S.

Group Activities

One of the most incredible things to do in order to ease off the stress of life is taking a group vacation with family and friends. A perfect group vacation can be at a beach resort, a theme park, or a national park. However, there are plenty of great destinations in the U.S. today but which is perfect for a group vacation? Here is a list of places to consider visiting when planning a group vacation.

Ohio

Ohio is an incredible destination that draws thousands of travelers annually and it has something on offer for everyone. Located in Allegheny Plateaus region in Ohio is Hocking Hills, one of the most impressive natural formations in the world. Renowned for its high cliffs, stuning waterfall, deep gorges and rock shelters, this beautiful destination is a place not to miss out on visiting when planning a family vacation. There are plenty of places to visit here such as Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, Lake Logan State Park, Hocking Hills State Park and much more. Ohio also boasts several lovely activities for people of all ages including fishing, boating, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding and much more.

Telluride, Colorado

Considered one of the best destinations to enjoy plenty of activities, fine dining experience and a memorable group vacation, Telluride is famous for its natural beauty and hospitality. Here you will find plenty of world class hotels offering great comfort and hospitality to guest. Take a trip to the Alta Lakes and enjoy scenic views. One of the great spots worth exploring is the Telluride Town Park State Park where you can enjoy loads of fun filled activities and also meet friendly locals.

The Resort at Pelican Hill, California

The Resort at Pelican Hill is one of the most serene places to stay that features lots of spacious rooms for the gang. Renowned for its magnificent settings, the resort boasts beautiful golf courses and a world class on site restaurant serving great tasting dishes. Here you will enjoy plenty of group fun. Some of the places to explore include hiking the Irvine Ranch Land Reserve and relaxing at the Crystal Cove State Park. One of the reasons why the resort at Pelican Hill is considered a great destination for group vacation is because of the vast activities it has to offer such as fishing, scuba diving, boating, surfing as well as whale watching. There’s never a dull moment here.

Why Don’t Adults get a Spring Break?

Spring Break

As most of us know, Spring Break is that time of the year where students plan to burn off some steam from school & exams. But we often forget about the parents that have to take off from work or arrange for their children to spend time with other family members, if they aren’t already in daycare.  But most daycare providers close down as well.  Over the years, I often wondered about what most of the adults; like myself do.  If anyone needs a Spring Break it should be us, right?

Well, I asked a several of my friends how did they feel on this subject and I was astonished at the answers I got. They had never even thought about Spring Break for themselves.  I know for most adults we are so stuck on going to work and living the same routine life we’ve always lived.  But if one year you decided to do something out of the norm.  Try Spring Break for yourself.  I suggested to my husband next year we are going to do Spring Break.  Matter of fact, I will make a plan to try to break as often as the kids do.  Why not, we deserve it, right?  Nah, maybe not taking that many breaks because who’s going to pay the bills. HaHa

Spring Break tends to be the most promising time of the year for hotels, resorts and sunnier destinations to end their first quarter strong.  Florida and Cancun seems to be the #1 big hit amongst college students from my experience.  Budget playing a crucial factor when students are planning their Spring Break for most do not work while they are in school so they have limited financial resources. We are also aware that many of the popular resorts will not let anyone under the age of 21 to check-in to their properties so often older siblings or college mates will tag along to chaperone.  I will definitely look at areas that don’t attract the Spring Breakers, just out of curiosity.

So remember when you child states that can’t wait for Spring Break you have to chime in as well and say, “Me either.”  That will throw them off just a little. But you get my drift.  It’s time for us adults to enjoy life a little and take some much needed breaks to regroup or just relax a little.

 

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5 Tips from a Travel Insider

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As you know in this day and time, there are a lot of you who like to take charge and plan your own travel or pretty much do things for yourself. So we took a moment to list 5 Tips from a Travel Insider that will point you in the right direction.

1. Keep in mind that engines like Orbitz and HotWire are at the mercy of the airlines and hotels that put the deals on their website but if you don’t see what you want you can always call a travel professional. They have access to different systems than your online engines most of the times.

2. Speaking of traveling, when purchasing airfare it’s always best to look for rates either on Monday evening or Tuesday. This is when the airlines release their discounts after the weekend sales were unfavorable. So make sure you check back if you had a long weekend of searching and nothing seem appealing.

3. Another little tidbit. The best time to fly would be Saturday to Tuesday or Wednesday to Saturday you’ll find cheaper fares instead of Thursday to Sunday or Friday to Monday.

4. Our all time favorite is the new TSA Prescreening check-in. You don’t have to stand in those long lines when returning from your vacation. This has made it so easy to come back and slide you card to avoid the headache of going through customs. Make sure you apply before your next vacation.

5. Last but not least, forgot your charger at home. No problem. Most hotels or resorts are able to help. Normally they have a variety of chargers on hand from previous travelers leaving them behind. Hotels like Sheraton’s Ballantyne would lend you curling irons – also other items that clients may have left behind.

Hope these insider tips has given you some informed information to a smooth travel experience on next vacation.

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Tips on Group Travel

Tip on GT

Group Travel comes in all shapes and sizes- luxury travelers, adventure, 65+ and students.  Usually led by a tour director.  Group travel offers many perks such as: pre-planned itineraries, all-inclusive pricing for hotels, meals, flights, cultural experiences and other opportunities to socialize with members of the group.  Some groups can be restrictive meaning you have a tight planned to stick to.  Not allowing you to explore a destination on your own. Be very careful in choosing a group tour that will suit your needs.  If you desire to be less restrictive than an easier flowing schedule may work for you; one in which you can have some downtime away from the other members of the group.  But safety first, definitely let someone know where you are exploring.

Be open-minded when traveling with a group there are lots of cultural elements to experience.  Being shut off to new explorations will keep you from fully enjoying the group travel experience.  Group travel offers unique amenities you may not enjoy as an individual traveler such as ATV cruising, camel riding in the dessert or club crawl.  Enjoyment of activities have increased amongst group members.  The level of excitement is a huge factor because most travelers have reported they wouldn’t have participated in any of the activities if it wasn’t for the camaraderie of the group.  Friendships are amongst many of the benefits one can walk away with along with always having someone to travel with.  Being able to travel with someone is a huge one for many in groups.  Not saying traveling alone isn’t a good thing because sometimes you do need time away to reflect or decompress from everything and everyone.

Be flexible, as you know some things do not always go as planned.  And with large groups it could be a little challenging.  Unforeseen events can take place to throw your whole schedule off, like a city-wide strike on public transportation.  This can cause major upheaval but be patient.  The tour operates will figure out an alternate solution to get you back on track.  That’s the beauty of being in a group, hotels and resorts are more willing to accommodate because they desire building great relationships. Take time to ponder on your last trips and make a decision to at least try one group trip.

When thinking about your next travel plans consider a Group Trip you will never look at travel the same way.

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Create your own SCANDAL! The Hottest Hotels in Washington DC – Part 2

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Here are some more hotels to add to the list of Hottest Hotels in Washington. Renowned for being the capital of the United States, Washington DC is a very popular destination in North America that attracts millions of tourists annually from different parts of the world. As the seat of the United States Government, a trip to Washington DC is a must for every traveler especially fun seekers. This magnificent capital city is home to hundreds of incredible attractions, monuments, great shopping and amazing hotels. Whether you are planning a vacation to Washington DC with family and friends or on business trip, you will definitely find an exotic hotel accommodation that best suits your needs. There are plenty of luxury hotels in Washington that offer easy access to world class attractions including parks, museums, nightlife venues and monuments. Residents are hospitable and friendly. Fortunately, finding luxury hotels in the city is not as hard as it seems to be. However, when it comes to choosing an accommodation, it always matter to every individual’s preference. If you are looking for the best 5 star hotels in Washington DC that offers great hospitality and comfort like no other, then you should consider choosing from the list of luxury hotels listed below.

Four Seasons
Located in the beautiful Georgetown neighborhood, Four Seasons is one of the leading 5 star hotels in Washington DC. Are you visiting the city for vacation or business? You can relax in one of the fully equipped rooms and enjoy a wide range of rejuvenating spa services. Featuring 222 fully equipped rooms, comfortable guest rooms, illuminated public spaces and great ambience, Four Seasons is most likely a top choice among business travelers and tourists looking for a relaxing, comfortable place to stay. The hotel is divided into two sections namely the East and West wing. All rooms come with amenities such as minibars, air conditioning, deep soaking tubs, comfortable bed, flat screen TV and much more. The hotel has 6 presidential suites including a Royal Suite beautifully designed with bulletproof glass for additional security measures. Four Season is also home to some of the most exotic restaurants in the city of Washington. Breakfast is superb as guest can choose from a wide range of items including lemon ricotta pancakes and egg white frittatas with fresh berries. For dinner, enjoy handcrafted cocktails served by friendly, experienced bartenders and great tasting meal prepared by seasoned chefs. One of the major reasons why people retreat in this hotel is its unmatched attentiveness and high quality service. Renowned for being one of the best spa hotels in the United States, Four Seasons is definitely a place to be!

Park Hyatt
Located in the gorgeous neighborhood of Georgetown, Park Hyatt Washington DC offers a sleek modern escape for all kinds of guests. Built in 1986 and renovated in 2006 to give it such breathtaking look, Park Hyatt features 216 room well equipped with great amenities that ensures a memorable stay for guests. It has lovely public spaces, spacious rooms (the smallest being 408 sq. ft.), professional service and offers great dining options. It’s just so nice and comfortable that it keeps attracting tourists and business travelers not only in the United States but from different parts of the world to enjoy matchless service and hospitality. With close proximity to the National Mall and other interesting attractions, Park Hyatt boasts a fitness center, a spa, meeting space, business center, 24 hour room service, concierge service, high speed internet rain showers in the limestone bathrooms, and Blue Duck Tavern – an onsite restaurant which is loved by locals and tourists alike!

W Washington DC
W Washington DC Hotel has close proximity to the White House and several top attractions including Lafayette Park, National Aquarium and the Corcoran Gallery of Art. The hotel’s rooftop bar and terrace offers stunning views of the city and its environs. The 317 rooms are beautifully designed and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to suit visitors of all kinds including leisure travelers and business travelers. Modern convenience at the W Washington DC Hotel include DVD players, direct-dial phones, iPod docking stations and much more. Each rooms offer stylish decors and comes with mini bars, tea/coffee makers, LCD Televisions, toiletries, air-conditioning etc. Regarded as the city’s oldest hotel, W Washington DC Hotel combines Italian Renaissance with a col modern twist. The hotel is perfect for everyone!

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Create your own SCANDAL! The Hottest Hotels in Washington DC – Part 1

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ABC’s Scandal has been rocking the television airwaves since 2012. Because of the sexiness Kerry Washington emits as Olivia Pope and because everyone loves a, well, scandal, in politics, it’s no surprise that more and more people are wanting to visit Washington D.C. to enjoy their own scandalous adventure. If you are one of the many people looking to hangout where the politicians play, below is part 1 of 2 of the hottest hotels you can stay in while you are in Wahsington D.C. These hotels are so steamy we had to break this post into two!

The Jefferson: The Jefferson has been catering since to Washington’s most elite visitors since the ‘90s, supplying a taste of European luxury in the center of the United States capital. The Beaux Arts age rules supreme here, with sculptures and 20th century paintings lining the checkered floors. The Jefferson’s tasteful accommodations are furnished with custom made duvets, plush bathrobes, slick flat-screen TVs and a complimentary Wifi. For a bit more space, upgrade to a suite, that will come equipped with a Nespresso coffee maker and, in a few suites, private balconies overlooking the Washington Monument. Luxury never gets any better with The Jefferson.

The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington DC: The very first ‘hot’ thing about this Ritz-Carlton is its Georgetown location. The second is its décor; Red brick walls adorn both the exterior and the interior of the property, while the cool tones located throughout the hotel are reminiscent of the nearby waterfront. In addition, its trendy lodgings are appointed with 400-thread count Egyptian cotton linens, luxurious feather beds, DVD home theater systems and high speed Wifi accessibility. Escape to the luxurious Boutique Spa to indulge in a rejuvenating massage Nonetheless, what actually sets the Ritz apart, aside from its top notch comforts – is its refined, comfortable ambiance. Guests cannot stop raving about the modern, airy layout of the Lobby Lounge, which features an inviting wood burning hearth.

The Hay-Adams: Situated at the border of Lafayette Square, Hay-Adams boasts a magnificent vantage point of the National Mall as well as the White House. Here, head to toe magnificent decor welcomes the guests; while guest rooms feature neutral tones with elegant bedspreads, the reception is decked out in rich wooden paneling and marble floors. Lodgings additionally house luxurious Asprey London bathroom products, 37-inch flat-screen TVs and Bose music systems. The Lafayette – the elegant dining room of the resort – garners high praise from delicious culinary offerings and striking views of the White House. More still, if you’re a history buff, then Hay-Adams gets even ‘hotter’, as it’s names after the previous tenants of the site; journalist Henry Adams and Secretary of State John Hay.

Come back soon for part 2 of our Scandal-worthy hottest hotels of Washington D.C.

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Tips for Traveling During the Holidays

faye

One of the most hectic times of the year to travel is during the holidays. But, this year, you can rest easy because we’ve got several tips you can use that will make traveling just a little less stressful.

 

  1. Book your travel as far in advance as possible. If you are waiting until the last minute you could be risking the loss of the cheapest and most convenient accommodations.
  2. Arrive everywhere early. Arrive at the airport, train station, bus station, cruise ship, etc… at least two to three hours before your departure.
  3. Three words- early check in!
  4. Bring snacks if you’re flying- No, you can’t bring drinks from home, but yes, you can bring snacks on board. Some trains, buses and cruise ships also allow snacks, but check their policies ahead of time. Why bring snacks? Nothing is more stressful than trying to travel while hungry!
  5. If traveling with children, bring entertainment! Whether this means tablets loaded with games, activity books or a portable DVD player- an entertained child is a quiet child. Oh, and do everyone a favor and make sure you bring headphones too so you won’t be that family that is making too much noise.
  6. Don’t carry too much cash or valuables, and certainly don’t put either on display. This can make you an easy target for thieves and getting robbed is highly stressful!
  7. Bring all medications you may need for your trip along with information on local pharmacies should you need additional meds while traveling.
  8. Make extra copies of travel documents including passports, transportation tickets, directions to the hotel, etc…
  9. Write down credit card numbers and emergency phone numbers on a piece of paper that you keep with your valuables.
  10. Try not to wait until last minute to pack either. This almost guarantees you will forget something.
  11. Keep an eye on weather reports for delays and canceled travel itineraries.
  12. Avoid traveling on major holidays. If you are hoping to get somewhere in time for a special occasion, book your arrival time prior to the big day.

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What are your best travel tips to avoid stress during the holidays? Leave a comment below and tell us about it!