Travel Trends
Travelling 2010: Maintaining Your Security, Health, and Sanity. As summer approaches, and the mad dash for reservations and flight schedules ensues, the smart traveler knows that the only way to survive and actually enjoy your vacation is to “Be Prepared.” This applies to the three most stressful aspects of vacationing; security, health, and overall sanity. By Dina Ismail
Security
Health
With new restrictions on air travel popping up almost every week, the best the intrepid traveler can do is to be as aware as possible of the details of your travel. The first thing to do is to check luggage restrictions, for each leg of your flight. For example, your flight is as follows:
For more exotic travels, check the Internet for any vaccinations you may need before traveling. Although many of these are taken care during the medical examinations needed for visas, you should always double check in order to be safe. Also, travelers should check with their health insurance providers to ensure that their coverage is valid overseas.
Jeddah – London (via British Airways) London – Washington, D.C. (via United Airlines) For this specific flight plan, both British Airways and United Airlines have a luggage weight restriction of 23 kg (50 lbs). A maximum of two pieces of checked luggage and two small pieces of carry on (e.g. one trolley bag and a purse/ laptop bag) are allowed. In addition to packing according to the weight restriction, keep in mind that if you are carrying liquids, they must be under 100 ml (3.4 ounces). At least they make traveling light easy!
Sanity
As for entering the US encountering TSA agents, remember to remain calm, polite and cooperative. However, it is important to be aware of your rights. A female has the right to request the security search in a more private area as well as to ask for a female officer to perform the pat-down. Being aware of your surroundings and rights at all times will ensure a smooth trip through any airport.
Travelling can be a surreal situation to find yourself in. Airports are a world unto themselves and the best defense is preparedness. Keep photocopies of your health and travel documents, visas, and other important papers with you and at home. Familiarize yourself with airport layouts to avoid tight layovers as well as with the local laws and conditions of your destination. A wonderful resource for travelers is www.travel.state.gov
Finally, make sure to check in with your embassy or consulate immediately upon arrival in case of any emergencies.
Although aimed at American travelers, the site provides useful information about whatever country you are headed to.
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