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Get Going

There’s nothing worse than spending months planning a vacation, getting all the details worked out for your flights and your hotels, and then realizing that you’ve forgotten something that will keep your entire vacation from going smoothly…sometimes from even STARTING!

This page is meant to help you remember all of those little details that tend to be overlooked…so you can GET GOING!

Passport Services:

Make sure you secure your passport well in advance of your trip, but if you find yourself needing one last minute, Last Minute Passports is a service that can help you get what you need, when you need it. The following excerpt is taken from their website. Click on their banner below to visit their home page and get started with your passport details.

“Last Minute Passports is a professional, non-government US passport courier service that works with the US Passport Agency and foreign consulates in expediting US passports and visas. We assist travelers, traveling internationally who need a US passport or foreign visa in an expedited manner.

Whether you need a new passport expedited, a passport renewal expedited or just need to add pages to your US passport, rely on the company with honesty and integrity as their motivation.

We take pride in making sure our clients receive their expedited US passports or visas on-time and in doing so we help them feel a sense of relief. It is our commitment to provide fast, reliable and professional service with competitive prices when it comes to expedited passports.

Our knowledgeable, honest, and friendly staff is available to help with any questions, or concerns you may have in regards to expediting your new passport, passport renewal or any other type of US passport.”

Luggage:Having a quality suitcase or backpack when you head out for your adventure will take a big stress off of your mind. Some things to remember when purchasing your luggage are:

1. The type: Backpack or suitcase. If you plan to be traveling to many different locations, and keeping your bags with you at all times, a backpack is the only way to go. Many times, streets aren’t equipped to handle rolling suitcases, and often there aren’t elevators or escalators to help with moving your stuff. By using a backpack, you can strap it on and become much more streamline while traveling from one place to the next. Keep in mind though, that there isn’t the option to roll it if your back starts to get tired. If you are heading straight to the airport, checking your bags, and then getting a taxi or hotel van to take you to your destination, then a regular suitcase should be just fine.

2. The size: Some travelers make it a rule that they will not pack more than they can keep with them at all times. This includes airplane flights. Keep in mind that you must check a bag that is over “carry-on” size. Also, every traveler tends to over pack (us included). To solve this problem…buy a smaller bag! This will limit the amount of stuff you can take with you, and it will help you narrow down your packing to the bare necessities.

3. The price: It’s luggage. In our opinion, brand names and bells and whistles only go so far. Make sure you’re not duped into buying a suitcase or backpack just because “it’s the most expensive one, so it must be the best!” There are some brands that are known for quality, but overall, the backpack/suitcase you should get is the one that fits your needs.

4. The fit: When purchasing a backpack, make sure it is comfortable…there’s nothing worse than going on a trip only to find that the backpack you bought rubs in the wrong places, or doesn’t fit your body correctly. Some popular brands may be beloved by some travelers and loathed by others because of the different shape and fit of unique body types. Make sure to try on your bag before you buy it. Many backpack resellers have knowledgeable staff that can help with adjustments. Also make sure to stuff the bag for weight to see how it will fit once it is filled.

5. The store: Whether buying from a retail store or an online store, make sure of the company’s return and warranty policies. Since you can usually find better deals online, we suggest picking out your suitcase or backpack in a retail store where you can check the quality and fit, and then searching online with the brand and part number for a better deal.

Check out the link below to Irv’s Luggage for quality travel gear.

Car Rental/Hire:Many international destinations provide travelers with adequate public transportation opportunities. However, if you visit a country that does not have a transportation infrastructure, or if you choose to explore further on your own, you will need to rent a car to get you around. It’s fun to rent compact European cars like the SmartCar and whip around carefree to wherever you choose, but make sure to educate yourself on the country’s traffic and road rules to avoid any mishaps that may cause a hiccup in your vacationing.The WorldWide Classroom offers these suggestions for driving while traveling abroad:

“If you rent a car abroad while visiting Spain or countries outside Western Europe, you may need to secure an International Driver’s License from your local auto club.The license is valid for one year and requires two passport-size photos and a nominal fee ($5-$15).

It is issued automatically if you present your valid state driver’s license.

Don’t leave your U.S. license at home, however. You should carry both your state license and your International Driver’s License.

Driving abroad:

Before you decide to drive while abroad, remember that a car can be very isolating. Your reality becomes the inside of the car, not the culture of the country.
Gas is expensive; it’s hard to find a parking space; and you have to deal with unfamiliar driving customs and foreign traffic laws.
Car accidents are the leading cause of death for travelers. The biggest challenge is driving on the left, which is the custom in the United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong and several other countries throughout the world. Allow at least a week to get used to driving on the left.
When driving or getting around using public transportation, think in kilometers, if that’s the standard measure. It’s much easier than constantly trying to convert (a kilometer is .62 of a mile).
Some local rental agencies are cheaper than the big name places. Also, some agencies will not rent cars to people over 70 or under 25.” (www.worldwideclassroom.com)

Once you are prepared to drive abroad be sure to check out CarHire3000. They offer worldwide booking, no cancellation fees, no amendment fees, no credit card fees, plus up to 10% off for online bookings. Drive Safely!