EFTMUSE

More Travel Tips

Things to consider taking on next trip: headlamp or flashlight, dry laundry soap in baggie (so you can wash clothes), pack using those travel bags for clothes that you can squeeze the air out of- if they search your bag at least they won't be handling your clothes, download Skype to phone or buy local phone card at destination, an empty water bottle so you can fill it once past security, (even if you do then buy water). Don't have free wifi at hotel? Look up wifi hot spots before you go or consider local public buildings-libraries, internet cafes, some restruants etc. 

Travel Tips

Want some great travel tips? Here's 2 interesting websites:

www.worldhum.com

www.gadling.com

Another travel tip

In a new place?  Afraid of getting lost? Not sure where it is that you entered that market or square and you have to meet others there later? Take a digital picture with your camera or phone of a "landmark" you will recognize later for a reference. Happy travels.

Keeping luggage safe

Its always a challenge to keep track of our "stuff" when traveling. it seems some airports are more challenging than others. Get to the luggage pickup pronto in Lima, Peru. Rescued my suitcase a few years ago from someone that was trying to take it. this caution goes for any major city or port of entry. I've been carrying less and less and find it liberating. My theory is if you forget it buy it there or do without and put it on your list next time. TIP: upon arriving home, even though you may be tired, clean case and restock basics-shampoo etc-before putting it away. I also always keep a pair of slippers packed along with a hot water bottle. For the list makers, make a list of all the basics and keep it in the suitcase as a packing list. Safe travels.

Travel hint

Before you pack, take a digital picture of everything that will be in your suitcase + a picture of the outside of the suitcase. Do you have a special color strap or tag, then it will be recorded. Just creates a record + peace of mind

Travel / dangers and alerts

This is the first in a series of travel tips for all but especially women. I DO NOT recommend staying at the SOL Plaza Hotel in Puno, Peru. If you must, take these with you: A bathtub plug but most importantly- a large wedge or alarm wedge to put under door from inside. The reason? As I was in my bathroom getting ready to take a nice warm soak in the tub in the early evening, I heard a key in the door and thought it was my room mate. Wrong, it was one of the staff walking into my room. No knocking on door, no announcing themselves in any way. To say I was upset is an understatement. When I asked for the manager in the am, he didn't speak english (REALLY- in a tourist hotel?) I even spoke to another front desk person who did speak english. Well, nothing done. Since there are NO door signs or chains inside doors.....don't forget your wedge! And go to Rico Pan Bakery for breakfast. The hotel breakfast was the worst we encountered.

A wedge is now on my "don't leave home without it list".