Hotel/Resort Reviews
Reading reviews of hotels is sometimes a fine way to get acquainted with an area and to learn about specific hotels. Tripadvisor.com is a great place to find reviews written by people who have stayed in specific hotels. Unfortunately, some hotels write their own glowing reviews, and competitors write hostile reviews; however, after reading through some reviews, the traveler should get a good feel for the area.
Passport/Visa/Travel Warning Information
The State Department has accurate and up-to-date information on passports, visa requirements, and travel warnings for all destinations. Visit www.travel.state.gov/travel/travel_1744.html
Travel Health
Some destinations require certain inoculations. Other destinations may have a health advisory. Visit www.cdc.gov/travel
Currency Information
Currencies around the world can be confusing. A traveler can check the destination’s type of currency and its value compared to the US dollar at www.xe.com/ucc.
Using a Credit Card Abroad
While traveling overseas, keep these tips in mind to ensure that the best credit card deals do not end up costing you more than converting cash:
- Use the local currency – Ask merchants to charge your credit card in local currency. Many retailers in high tourist traffic areas may offer to convert your purchase to dollars, but at exchange rates that may be less favorable than your bank’s rates.
- Get your PIN – If your credit card contains an embedded EMV smart chip, ask your bank for its personal identification number before you leave the US. You will need this PIN in some parts of Europe where merchants fear getting ripped off by cloned magnetic strips.
- Conserve your cash – Remember that your bank may charge an extra processing fee and a higher APR for cash advances made at ATMs.
- Recommended cards – Discover, Capital One Venture and Chase Sapphire Preferred
Weather
No one can control the weather. However, people can record its past and predict its future. Visit www.weather.com
Maps
Maps help gauge travel time. They can also help locate certain travel highlights. Visit www.maps.live.com