It’s that time of year when the cold starts to bite and we dream of
next years summer holiday. As a travel expert I am regularly asked for
tips and advice for travelling so I thought I would start my blog with
some simple basics. I am a travel addict and have been to lots of
lovely places – each month I will highlight tips and travel hot spots.
Try these ideas to save you some time and more importantly stress. This month I am focusing on that all important checklist for before you go.
Firstly do the things that take the most time
Get your relevant visas sorted
Vaccinations can take time to organise so prioritise these
If travelling within the EU visit you will need a health card - order online at www.dh.gov.uk
Passport (Some destinations require a validity date of 6 months after return).
Get an appropriate insurance policy
Tell friends and neighbours when and where you're travelling to. Ask them to
Check your house regularly
Move mail away from the front door (you don’t want to look like you are on holiday).
Put your bin out on the correct day
Jobs to remember before you go
Cancel all newspapers, milk and organic veg box deliveries.
Make sure that all windows and doors are locked and that all appliances are turned off and disconnected
Put electrical timers on lamps in various rooms so that light shines through your windows.
Photocopy your passport if you are travelling overseas, and pack it in a different place from the original. If the passport is lost or stolen, the photocopy may serve as proof that you have a valid passport.
Buy a good guide book and read up about your destination – this will help you get the most out of your holiday.
For those going skiing this winter ensure that your insurance covers you for wintersports…..often forgotten in my experience. I am just back from Florida so next month I will be looking at how to make the most of this amazing holiday destination.
