FAQ - Vacation Planning

Hundreds of "Check Lists" have been written for travelers over the years and we have included a basic outline here.  Of course, you probably have many to add for yourself.  The most important thing, whether planning your vacation a year in advance or if you must wait for last minute specials...planning takes some time and today's travel requirements such as Passports and Visas mean that the earlier the better. 

If you are planning a Group, early booking is even more important.  It may mean better pricing, reduced deposits, fewer guests required to receive group benefits, and the ability to block space while you communicate with the members of your Group.  Timetables are important and we will take care of all these details for you.

          At least a few months ahead:

• Call us to start planning your vacation.  Remember that generally speaking, the earlier you book your trip, the more choice and better rates will be available.
• Research the area you'll be visiting and take note of not-to-be missed sights.  Make a list of sights you definately don't want to miss. 
• Check to ensure that your passport is valid if you're planning to leave the country, and will be valid for at least 6 months after you plan to return.
• Arrange for the necessary vaccinations.
  
  Three weeks ahead:
                                                                                                       
• Visit the internet to check your destination's weather sites, then start planning what you wish to pack. 
• Make sure there is room for emergency expenditures on your credit card.
• Purchase automatic timers for your lights and make arrangements to have someone watch your home while you are away. 
• Buy lots of film and batteries for your camera.
• Arrange for the post office to hold your mail.
• Book lawn care or snow removal. Uncut grass or a driveway filled with snow tells every burglar in town that no one is home.
• Ask a neighbour to start your car periodically if the weather is very cold or very hot.
• Make arrangements to board your pets.
• Wear the shoes you'll be taking on your trip to make sure they're comfortable.
• Eat yogurt to strengthen your digestive system, particularly if you will be traveling to foreign countries where you may encounter challenges to your digestive system.
   
  Two weeks ahead:
  
• Reconfirm reservations and make sure you have all your tickets.
• Travelling abroad? Make arrangements to purchase foreign currency and travellers cheques.
• Renting a car? Check your insurance coverage to ensure that you won't have to pay extra.
• Traveling by car? Get a tune-up and have the oil changed. Don't wait until the last minute - parts may need to be ordered.
• Put your valuables and jewelry in a safety deposit box.
• Take your travel clothes to the dry cleaner, if necessary.
  
  
  One Week Ahead:
  
• Get out suitcase and start your packing.  Be sure to check the luggage dimensions allowed for your Airline.
• Make sure your luggage is clearly marked, inside and out.  Put a unique ribbon on your suitcases and you'll be able to recognize them immediately on baggage racks.
• Make two lists of your credit card numbers and the serial numbers of your travelers cheques - keep them in separate places.  Doesn't hurt to leave an extra copy at home.
• Check your prescriptions for necessary refills; bring a list with the generic drug name listed since brand names can differ from place to place.  
• Send your Itinerary to your family members and give them our phone number as well in case of Emergency.
• Pay any bills that will come due while you are away.
  
  
  One Day Before you Travel:
  
• Walk around the room with your packed luggage to see how heavy it will actually be.  Remember we always take more than we need!  Condense.
• Move your houseplants out of the sun, water thoroughly and wrap the pots with plastic. Most plants can hang in for up to two weeks.
• Empty the refrigerator of anything that might spoil.
• Cancel your newspaper delivery.
• Fill the car with gas and check the fluid levels and tire pressure.
• Turn your refrigerator to its lowest setting. Set automatic light and radio timers.
• Take out your garbage so that I won't make the house smell while you are away.
  
  
  The Day you leave:
  
• Turn the water heater level to its lowest setting.
• Leave shades or drapes as normal.
• Lock all doors and windows including basement and garage.
• Unplug electronic items to protect them from power surges.
• Pack the car inside the garage, with the door down, so passersby won't know you're leaving.
  
  
  
  With all those details taken care of, have a safe and wonderful trip!