Panama Canal, Here We Come: 45 Days Before Departure

We started our planning over a year ago. I am sure you remember reading our blog post about the planning process. I remember looking up the weather at the places we were going to visit because my wife wants to be prepared. You remember the weather link on our website, right? As for me, I figured that it would be warm and that I would be wearing shorts and my guayabara shirts. We are ready to go, other than packing, I think. I get out my checklist to make sure:

Passports, check!
Cruise booked and paid for, check!
Air travel booked and paid for, check!
Travel insurance in place, check!
Get walking shoes and start walking to get in shape, double check!

I go through my checklist, one item at a time.

As I am thinking about writing this blog, not sure exactly what else I was going to write, when I received an email from Norwegian Cruise Lines. “Forty-Five days until departure, So Many Dining Options, Reserve Now”.

We were already excited about the great adventure, but getting that email really got us pumped up. Our plan on this trip was to try out an excursion at each port and to sample each of their specialty restaurants onboard so that we could share our experiences with all of you on our blog. I even go back and change the title to this blog.

We read through all the the information on the dining options. Well, yes, we had read all of it last year when we booked our cruise, but we read it all again. It made me hungry just reading about it.

We decided that we would book the Italian restaurant, La Cucina, on our first night so that we would be all set considering all of the confusion that would be associated with embarcation.

We are counting down the months. Only a month and a half left to go.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

Look for our cruise travel packing guide, our packing lists and many other travel tips on our website, www.TeamEdwardsTravel.com

Planning Your Next Vacation to a Foreign Country; What Should You Do First?

Well, the first thing that I suggest you do is to go back through our blog posts to make sure you are really ready to travel.

To make that easier for you, I have cut and pasted information from one of our earliest blog posts, but have made some modifications since this trip is a land based vacation, not a cruise.

Here’s a Timeline for A Vacation to a Foreign Country

Although we are only going to Cabo, not to Europe or the Middle East, or Africa, you still need to take some of the same steps to really be prepared so that you can fully enjoy your trip.

So, if you are anything like me, you booked your October 2012 vacation in October of 2011. You’ve already made sure that you have your passport, etc… But, not everyone is like me. So, for everyone else, if you are planning to take a trip to a foreign destination next year, I am providing you the long version of the planning timeline. After your first foreign destination, you will probably start at the 3-month section and move forward from there.

Also, if you have not traveled overseas before, you will soon learn that most travel agents need to have some documents up front when they are processing the booking, such as copies of the front and back of your driver’s license or other state identification as well as the front and back of your your credit card and the facing pages at the front of your passport. It is much easier for your travel agent to get the names spelled correctly and to handle the booking process as well as payments for you. In fact, most will ask you to complete a form, either in person or online, to capture much of the information needed. Here is an example of that type of form. So, we will start our process about 13 months out to give you time to take care of all of these first-time issues.

Some of the things I will cover here may not apply to every trip you take, but there are things here to review to ensure that you don’t miss something important. Also, as part of your trip planning process, we will touch on a very important issue later that is just as important as planning your trip. That is, making sure that you did the things at home you needed to do before you left. You really don’t want to have to call your neighbors and ask them to go to your house to make sure you unplugged the iron before you left, so we will have a checklist for that too.

13 months before your trip

Why 13 and not 12 months out? Because if you are a timeshare owner, you can often book out 13 months in advance so if the place you want to visit is in high demand, you want to make sure you have your location before you do anything else. If you are using a timeshare that is not in your club, you may have to wait until 10 or 11 months out. Check your timeshare options so that you know your time tables.
I assume that you will pay for the trip using your credit card so that you get the miles, etc… along with other types of coverage. If you will be renting a car, check your credit card’s rental car insurance coverage. You can get stuck with a huge, unexpected, charge for car insurance in a foreign country. If your card does not give you the coverage, now may be the right time to look into a new card or maybe only moving up your card from gold to platinum or something as simple as that. Also, make sure to bring the proof of coverage from your credit card company. Bring it in writing!!! I have a little more info about insurance here.
If you are still working, put in your vacation request. In most companies, first come equals first serve.
Check the weather. What? My wife really likes to know the weather before we go do something, so if we are going to be in Rome next July, she wants to know the weather so that she can plan on what to wear. So, by checking the weather when you start your plan, you will have a good idea of what it will be when you arrive. Check this link and you will see. If you try to check the weather three months out, it won’t be accurate for the time that you will be there.
Pull your passport out of the safe and check the dates. Now, check with the State Department as well as the Consulates for the countries you will be visiting. Some countries won’t let you enter on a passport that is brand new or one that is about to expire. So, check it out to determine if you need to renew your passport or not. Also, if the kids are traveling with you, check their passports too. The kid’s passports are only good for 5 years, so they will expire before yours do. Go to our website links. On that page there is a neat drop down link on the left side of the page. When it opens, it is on the TSA page. Great info here. Click on the down arrow then click on US Passports.
Oh, I was just making the assumption that you already had a passport. If not, then it’s time to apply. Here is a link to download the passport application. As one of the guys on TV says, “Get ’er Done!”. See link in previous comment.
Gather the necessary identification needed. If you need to replace a lost birth certificate, apply for a new passport, or renew one that is about to expire, start the paperwork now. Doing it at the last minute is stressful and often costly.
Apply for any visas required by the countries on your itinerary. Use this link, following the instructions above, to get on the Visas page. You will see a link to Visas on that page. If you are taking a river cruise while you are on your European vacation, often times you will need a letter of intent from the river cruise company to present at the consulate to get the visa. Don’t forget to ask your travel agent about it.
While you are on our links page, click that down arrow I pointed out a minute ago and click on the Travel Abroad, Travel Warnings, US Customs and the Travel Health links before you go any further.
Speaking of Travel Health, remember that when you book your cruise, you want to make the travel insurance decision at that time. So take the time now to talk with your travel agent about travel insurance. You can buy insurance through the travel agency as well as through a separate company such as Travel Guard. Lots of options so now is a good time to think about it. You can check out the Travel Guard Insurance link here so that you have already made that decision before you talk with your agent. You are spending good money for this trip, don’t loose it because health issues or some other emergency requires you to cancel the trip.
Go ahead, book your vacation now, especially if you are staying in a timeshare resort. You will get the best prices and of course, for some destinations, you won’t even be able to find an available timeshare resort unit if you don’t book at least 13 months ahead.
International Driving Permit. Not now, look at 3 months before your cruise. They are generally only good for 1 year.
If you don’t already have your Global Entry in place, do it now. If you forget to get it, at least do Pre-Check. As a last resort, load Mobile Passport onto your phone to simplify your return to the US.

6 to 9 months before your trip

I like to make monthly payments toward the vacation after making the initial deposit, or I start setting money aside in my travel savings account, so that I don’t need to worry about a lump sum later, especially if I am making my own air arrangements.
I want to be sure that I have most of the trip paid off before I have to order my air package and rental car, if I am going to use one.
Also, if you have meal preferences, special dietary needs, will need a wheelchair, oxygen, or medications while traveling, talk to your travel agent now so that they can make the appropriate arrangements for you. Your travel agent will have you complete a form showing your special needs.
Get your walking shoes and backpack. Later in this blog I talk about using a backpack rather than dragging a suitcase as your carry-on. We will also talk about carry-on essentials later. It is a good idea to get it now and get used to it. Also, to do that, you should start walking so that you will be in shape for all the walking you will do on those exciting excursions. So, get that new pair of walking shoes now so that they will be broken in before you start the trip. You don’t want a bunch of nasty blisters on your trip. You will even want to start wearing your backpack on those walks to get used to it, and break it in, as well. Fill it with a couple of water bottles for a little weight, or just walk to the market with an empty backpack, pick up a few items, like a bag of apples, and walk back home. Great exercise and you will have saved the cost of gas. You will even have an apple to munch on as you walk back home.

3 months before your trip

Just in case I did not mention it earlier, if your camera uses specialized batteries, you may want to order a couple of extras. Hopefully you and your partner use camera with the same batteries and lenses so that you can share if needed. Modern cameras can burn through batteries if you are shooting video as well as stills.
International Driving Permit. If you plan to drive and need an international driving permit in addition to your home driver’s license. They are generally only good for 1 year. You can get it through AAA. You can type in the boxes on the form then print it out and mail it to AAA or take it to your local AAA office. Read the document carefully and it will explain what you need, such as photos, etc… Again I will say, go to our website links, and click on the International Travel link and to see if there are any special requirements for the country in which you will be driving. If you are planning a European vacation you really want to make the best of the expensive air fare so you should probably plan to spend more than just a week there. A great plan is to schedule a Mediterranean Cruise or a River Cruise as the core of your European vacation. That way, you can plan for a few days before a cruise and then a few days after a cruise to see part of Europe by car, or better yet, by train.
If you have not already done so, make the final payment on your vacation, if it were able to set it up on a payment plan. If you have a cruise as part of your exotic foreign vacation, you will need to make the final payment for your cruise. Due dates vary by cruise lines and certain itineraries, but your travel agent should remind you when the payment date draws near. Failure to submit the balance due on time can result in the cancellation of your reservation. Wouldn’t that be a bummer, after you went to all the trouble to get your passport.
Look over your Packing Lists and print out a list for each person for whom you will be packing. Check out our tips page for more info. You can also check out some earlier blog posts for great packing lists. There is a list for men, and women, and travel essentials.
Start planning your wardrobe now. Try things on to ensure they fit and are in good repair (it’s amazing that they fit the last time you wore them). Set things aside in your closet. In fact, if you have an extra bedroom, start putting your travel clothes in there, so you won’t accidentally pull them from your travel wardrobe. Please understand that I am a guy, although my wife does edit these posts, and I may miss out on some issues that are important to women but not to us guys, so, please don’t hesitate to make a comment below if you notice that I have missed something important.
If you are a woman and need to shop, get started so you have time to find just the right thing (and perhaps to return or exchange just the right thing). I don’t think us guys really know anything about just the right thing. You may also need to allow time for alterations. Start early—last minute shopping for just the right thing can be hazardous to your nerves and your pocketbook. (This is an example of what I noted above. I have no idea about just the right thing, but my wife insisted that it was really important. Hey, shorts and a nice guayabera and some sandles and I’m set for Cabo.)
If you have pets, it is time to make kennel reservations. (If you are traveling during a holiday period, you may need to do this even earlier.)
If you are going to have a house sitter, make your arrangements now.
If you purchased your vacation package through your travel agent, call for the details of your airline schedule. Request seat assignments and any special airline meals. Ask your travel agent to sign you up for email or text notifications of any flight changes.
If you did not purchase an vacation package from your travel agent and are going to purchase your own air travel, you should be on Kayak.com checking out the airfares and or car rental info. If you don’t know it already, domestic air service (non-international air service) does not support the travel agent industry if you buy just airline tickets by themselves, so most agents will recommend you buy the complete package, so that they can get you a discount, or having you do your own air or car rental. If you are traveling overseas, buy the complete package, including the excursions. Also, you need to pre-purchase your Euro-rail pass from home to get the best rates.

If you are vacationing, but your kids are staying with a trusted family member: (I don’t know about you, but we never had one of those around, so we waited until the kids were older, or we took them along with us.)

Make childcare arrangements.
Go over children’s schedules to ensure they’ll have everything they need while you are gone (a gift for Jimmie’s birthday party, supplies for school project, a permission slip for the field trip). You may need to check in with the children’s teachers to get field trip permission slips ahead of time.
Ensure the person who is taking care of your kids has been signed up at the school and the after-school program and with your daycare provider, so that they can legally pick up your kids. You have to authorize it with your provider beforehand. It is a good idea to take the person in and introduce him/her to your after-school provider.
If you have small children, you may want to put together a small bag of treats for them to open each day while you’re gone—tape yourself reading a favorite bedtime story or singing a lullaby (as long as it’s you, it will sound fantastic to them).

1 month before your trip

If your children are going with you, start laying out their clothes now. I did not suggest it earlier because they grow so much when they are little; the ones you would have laid out 3 months ago might not fit them now.
Make appointments for any personal services you wish to have prior to your cruise. For example, a haircut, manicure, pedicure, spray tan, etc.
Get out your luggage, and check the locks and zippers. Check for anything that might have spilled inside on a previous trip. (Yes, you should have done that before you put everything away, but just in case you didn’t, do it now.)
If you need new luggage or want an extra piece to bring home your souvenirs, do it now. I sometimes pack the smaller suitcase full, then pack it inside the larger suitcase with clothes around it, so that I can take it out and fill it with souvenirs or new clothes on the trip home. You might even plan on packing a lightweight backpack in your suitcase to haul the souvenirs home. One of the other things I have done is to pack my old undershirts/t-shirts, and tossed them out after using them so that I had room for gifts to bring home. Hey, I was going to toss them or use them as rags anyway, so what the heck.
If you did not book those excursions when you booked the trip and did not add them 2 months ago when I discussed it again, do it now. Go back and read the 3 months before your trip and you will remember why.

2 to 4 weeks before your trip

If you have planned a River Cruise or a Med Cruise in the middle of your European Vacation, pick up your cruise documents from the travel agent (or receive them by mail or emailed e-documents). If you have not already done so, you should order any excursions you take during your port visits. Talk with your travel agent about these excursions. Examine the documents for accuracy (correct cabin number, sailing date, and dining arrangements) and make sure that names are spelled correctly. If there is something you don’t understand, ask your travel agent or the cruise line now. Read all the literature in your document package for suggestions specific to your cruise. Most cruise lines include helpful information.
Go over your personalized packing list again. Finish shopping.
Do you remember earlier, about a year ago, I suggested that you check out our links page, click that down arrow I pointed out and click on the Travel Abroad, Travel Warnings and the Travel Health links before you go any further. Well, this is a good time to do it again.
If you will need ground transportation from the air port to the resort, make arrangements now. You can check with your travel agent or go to TripAdvisor.com and look for some options. You may find out that doing it ahead of time will save you a lot of trouble and money.
I like to order a little cash for the countries that I am visiting so that I am ready for a taxi, Uber, Lyft or train. I even carry a few dollars because they are accepted most places. In fact, at some locations, that is all they accept. If you are going from Kenya to Tanzania, you have to have about $100 in newer clean crisp 20 dollar bills to pay for your visa. They don’t accept credit cards or old worn out money. Forget the traveler’s checks, no one uses them anymore. Get a supply of one-dollar bills for tipping baggage handlers (at the airport, hotel, pier, etc.). Keep in mind that you can use your ATM card to get cash at most banks abroad. Make sure to check with your bank before you leave.

1 week before your trip

Finalize your packing list, and continue organizing everything in that guest bedroom.
Buy extra media cards and check the batteries in your camera if it uses AAA or AA batteries. Since you don’t want to carry a lot of extra weight, leave the rechargeable batteries at home because you would have to carry the charger too. Plan on using disposable batteries during the trip. If your camera does not use these types of batteries, I hope you ordered a couple of extras earlier so that you can shoot pictures all day.
If you take medications, make sure to refill prescriptions so that you don’t run out during the trip. Bring along a copy of the prescription, if this is critical medication and put medication in your carry-on bag. It is not a good idea to take the medications out of their prescription bottles and dump them together to save space. If you are taking prescription drugs for pain, such as morphine sulfate, you might want to check with the to see if there are any special travel restrictions for carrying these types of medications. Also, check with your doctor about these since they usually only issue a 30 day supply. Your doctor will be able to adjust your prescription for travel to cover you until your get home.
Make two photocopies of your passport or ID and credit cards. Leave one copy with a friend and carry the other separately from the originals.
If you are visiting Ports of Call other than in the Caribbean, you might want to exchange some money ahead of time. (I will be writing a blog about exchanging dollars later.)
You may also want to put valuables and jewelry that you won’t be taking with you on the trip in your home safe or in the safety deposit box while you’re at your bank. (You may want to put some of the contents of your wallet, like your extra credit cards, in the safety deposit box as well.) In fact, I don’t carry a wallet while I am travelling. I put a credit card and a credit card in my pocket while I am out and about.
Did you contact your bank to let them know that you will be using your credit cards and ATM cards overseas? If not, do it now.
Arrange to have your mail held at the post office, or ask a neighbor to pick it up.
Stop newspaper delivery, or ask a neighbor to bring it in for you.
Arrange for lawn and houseplant care, pool maintenance, or snow removal, during your absence (if necessary).
Leave your itinerary and a house key with a relative or friend. If you are cruising, leave the ship’s telephone number (plus the name of your ship and your stateroom number) as well.
If traveling with small children, purchase little games or toys to keep them occupied while en route to your embarkation port.

3 days before your trip

Confirm your airline flights; departure times are sometimes subject to change.
Put a card with your name, address, and itinerary inside each suitcase.
Fill out your luggage tags, and follow the instructions in your cruise documents regarding attaching them if you are going on a cruise.
If you taking a cruise and took our advise and are flying into the port city the day before, always a good idea, don’t put on the cruise luggage tags until you are at the hotel the night before your cruise. Complete any other paperwork that the cruise line included with your documents (foreign customs & immigration forms, etc). Do NOT wait until you are standing in the pier check-in line to fill them in! You can now buy very nice luggage tags that allow you to slip the cruise baggage tags into them. Much better than trying to stable paper tags onto your bags.
Do last minute laundry and tidy up the house.
Pull out the luggage and begin packing.
When you lay out your clothes prior to packing, don’t pack all of your stuff in your bags and all of your partner’s stuff in their bag. If two of you are traveling and you are taking two bags apiece, in addition to your personal carry-on, then divide your stuff into four equal piles and put one quarter of it into each bag. Your partner does the same. That way, if a suitcase is lost by the airlines, each of you will have clothes to wear.
Finally, when you pack your carry-on bag, make sure to follow our carry-on checklist because it will suggest that you pack your swimsuit, etc… in your carry-on along with your personal stuff, like your medications and a book to read on the airplane, because your luggage may be awhile before you get access to your cabin or your condo. And remember, this is vacation.
While we are talking about your carry-on bag, I highly suggest that it is a backpack-style bag rather than a suitcase style bag. When you get on the airplane, you don’t want to be carrying or dragging a small suitcase with you. A backpack is so much easier, and you will love the freedom it gives you. If you don’t have one, look for the narrow ones so that you are not banging the seats as you walk down the isle.

The day before departure

Take pets to the kennel.
Water houseplants and lawn (if necessary).
Dispose of any perishable food in the refrigerator.
Mail any last minute bills.
Set timers for indoor lights.
If you didn’t already to it, clean out your wallet/purse. Remove anything you won’t need (check cashing cards, department store, or gas credit cards, etc), and put them in your home safe, or in your safe deposit box at the bank.
Finish packing and lock your suitcases. If you are flying, make sure the locks are approved by the TSA.

Departure day

Adjust the thermostat and double-check the door locks.
Turn off the water if there is danger of frozen pipes while you are away.
Unplug the iron.
If you didn’t already, read my “Leaving Home Checklist” to ensure you didn’t forget to do something before you leave.
Arrange to be at the airport a minimum of two hours before your departure time. (Or earlier for international flights—follow the airline’s instructions.)
Have photo ID and/or passport ready for check-in.
Slip your car keys, parking claim checks, and airline tickets into your (backpack) carry-on luggage. Never check these items.

You’ve arrived! RELAX! Now is a great time to get the beverage of your choice, find a place on deck or patio where you can enjoy the view, and say goodbye to the rush!

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

We’re On Vacation; What Did We Forget?

We are on our timeshare vacation to Hawaii. We went through the planning and packing process to make sure we would have everything we would need and to bring things from home so that we did not have to buy them in Hawaii. Of course, the reason we want to bring things from home is that everything is about twice the cost here in Hawaii as compared to home.

Now that we are in place, what did we forget, and what should have been added to the list?

The first thing to come up is that there really are not enough places to hang things up. Not enough clothes hangers either, although we did ask for more of them and got them.

So, on my next trip, I will bring some of those “3M Command Hooks”. I checked here and they are about $3.75 for a package of two. I bet they are much cheaper at home.

These are the peel and stick plastic hooks that can be easily removed. In fact, you can get extra sticky sheets so that you keep the hooks and re-use them on your next trip.

The second thing we noticed was that we really missed having honey or jam with our toast at breakfast. We have some of those small jars of jam that come with those picnic packs that you get from Harry & David or Swiss Colony from the mall. They have crackers, cheese, smoked sausage, and usually a couple of small jars of jam. I don’t want to carry a full size jar of jam, so these are ideal. I will also check with the local restaurant supply for those small blister packs of jam like you see at the table at Denny’s. I would not suggest that you fill your purse with them the next time you visit though.

A small container of Parmesan cheese would have come in handy too. It is pretty expensive here on the island. Maybe I will just put enough into a Ziploc Bag for the next trip.

Speaking of Ziploc bags, I don’t think we brought enough. Need 3-5 in the gallon size and 3-5 in the quart size plus some sandwich and snack sizes too. After opening chips, we like to put the chip package into a gallon Ziploc to keep the moist sea air from making them go stale too fast. I also suggest that you double bag your fruit when you shop because the extra bags will come in useful around the condo. After cutting up the pineapple, we put the remainder in a small bowl and shoved the bowl into a fruit bag from the market. Twisted it tight, tucked the extra under the bowl and put it in the fridge.

Another thing to make your budget stretch further is to plan your meals so that you can use things from one meal to another later in the week. Say, for example, you make spaghetti on Monday. Save the extra noodles and the extra sauce for later in the week and put together a spaghetti casserole. Make it like you would make a lasagna with your leftover pre-cooked spaghetti noodles rather than using lasagna noodles. All you need is a little extra sauce and some parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

I’m Flying to Hawaii With My Children. What Documents Do I Need If My Spouse Is Not Traveling With Me?

Do I need some sort of written permission to take my child on a trip without the other parent being present?

I should say, “It Depends”, because on his last trip to Hawaii, our son traveled as a single parent with his son, and no one at the airport asked for any travel documents from the child’s mother allowing the travel, so it may depend upon the person at the gate.

We are going to tackle the simple trip first…domestic U.S. travel with a minor child, but without both parents being present on the trip.

We will tackle the more complicated situations in a later blog; going to a foreign country with only one parent, or under the care of someone other than the parents because that brings up the issue of passports and visas in addition to permission slips. The same goes with your child traveling to a foreign country with a school group or sports team, as a foreign exchange student, People to People International, etc… unaccompanied by a parent or guardian.

Let me cover some basics before I answer the initial question raised in this blog.

Every parent should make sure to get a copy of the official birth certificate when their child is born. Don’t forget to order the social security number too. With these two items in hand, get the child a passport. It does not make any difference that you are not planning to take the children out of the country. What happens if there is an opportunity for them to take a trip with their grandparents or an aunt and uncle? Without a passport, they may miss out on an experience of a lifetime. If they have the passport, half of the challenges are already taken care of. Remember, for kids, the passport is only good for give years, not 10 like the adults, because they change so much as they grow up.

Similarly, if one of the parents is being deployed by the military, a permission slip should be signed by the deploying spouse granting the remaining parent the ability to travel, domestically as well as internationally, whenever necessary. Wouldn’t it be terrible if you got leave and could meet the family in Australia or somewhere you have always wanted to visit, but the family could not join you because your spouse did not have a permission slip? There are probably several other documents the remaining parent may need signed and notarized before deployment, but that is for a different blog, not a travel blog. Additionally, what if the minor child has to travel alone to meet up with you. You will need a permission slip for this as well.

Finally, don’t wait until the last-minute to deal with this issue. Please don’t show up at the departure gate at the airport or cruise line without a properly executed permission slip. It can really be a bummer if you don’t have the proper documentation, and what about the cost of rescheduling the trip?

Here are some of the questions I have heard regarding this issue.

1. Do we need a passport or visa?
2. If only the mom or only the dad is traveling with the minor child; do they need a letter from the other parent?
3. Does it have to be notarized?
4. Do we need the child’s birth certificate?
5. What does the letter have to say?
6. Do I need a lawyer to draft the letter?
7. If the child is traveling with grandparents, or other persons, and we can get a letter from the parents, do we need a letter signed by both parents?
8. What if we can only get one parent to sign? Can we take the child with us or not?
9. What if the other parent is in the military and cannot be reached?
10. What if we are grandparents who are raising the grandchild, and the parents have flaked out and not available to sign any sort of permission slip, but we are not legal guardians? What do we do?

What are the answers?

So, first of all, since we are not leaving the U.S., we don’t need to worry about having a passport.

If only one parent is traveling, they should have a permission slip from the other parent. You can also just print out the Travel With Minors Permission Letter created for use by grandparents and other temporary guardians and just fill in the blanks. By the way, when you make reservations, you have to put the child’s name on the reservation along with the child’s age. Will you be asked to prove that the child you are taking is the child on the reservation or will the airlines believe you? Generally, if you have the permission slip with you and the information on the permission slip matches the reservation information, there will be no problems boarding the airplane and enjoying the vacation. Remember, if both parents are taking the trip, you don’t need any sort of permission slip.

Although it is not required that you have the permission slip notarized, it is a good idea to do it, especially for foreign travel. That means that both parents, along with the children, should set up a meeting with a notary.

It is a good idea to bring a copy of the birth certificate along when you meet the notary. The notary does not need to take a copy, but may want to see it since the notary does not know you or the children.

As you saw from the link above, the letter must clearly state who is giving permission, what permission is being given, and generally the time frames for the permission. It is also helpful to provide the contact information for the parent not traveling, so that a call can be made to verify the permission if needed.

As long as the permission slip clearly provides the above information, a lawyer is not needed, unless we get into custody or legal guardianship issues.

If the kids are traveling with anyone else, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc…, a permission slip signed by both parents is required. In this case, in addition to having a Travel With Minors Permission Letter, you should also make sure to carry a Medical Treatment Authorization Letter as well.

The next couple of questions are more difficult to deal with.

If you cannot get both signatures, you probably will not be able to take the child on the trip. If one of the parents is no longer available to sign, the remaining parent may have to get a court order declaring them the parent with sole custody, and that parent could sign the permission slip, but you may have to bring the additional documentation showing that the single parent does have the legal authority to grant the permission.

The same type of court action may also be required if the parents are unable to provide a permission slip to a grandparent or other guardian caring for the kids. This is something that would need to be taken care of long before considering a vacation. There may come a point when such guardians need to become legal guardians for all the care issues involving the minor children. Also an issue for a completely separate blog, and one that would require the assistance of a lawyer.

All of this can get very complicated if the parents are divorced or separated, or one of the parents is deceased. Copies of divorce papers, separation agreements, child custody agreements, death certificates, etc… may need to be shown to a notary to obtain a valid permission slip, especially if both parents cannot appear before a notary.

So, just plan ahead so that you get your vacation off to a good start.

One final note, you will see this info in other blogs but I though it would be especially important in this blog. It has to do with carrying extra documentation while traveling. For example, every parent, especially one traveling alone, should have a current photo of the child or children in your wallet or purse. It is easy to get separated from your kids with both parents watching, it is even easier when you are by yourself, in unfamiliar surroundings, away from home. Also, make sure your children carry emergency notification information on their person. If they are very young, then pin it inside their clothing. Also, make sure the emergency number on said notification is the cell phone you are carrying as well as a number back home. What happens if there is a vehicle accident, the lone parent is killed or seriously injured, and the authorities don’t know how to contact the other parent or guardian? Who will take care of the child. Is there another family member on the trip that can be contacted? If so, make sure that the person’s contact info is on the notification document on the child. That goes for the parent too. Do you have clear instructions in your wallet for emergency notifications? If you are injured, it is not likely that your three-year old will be able to tell the authorities anything that they need to know. What info should be included:

1. Your itinerary.
2. Name of ship or hotel or condo where you are staying. (Address & phone & room number too.)
3. Emergency phone number for someone in your traveling group.
4. Emergency phone number for someone back home.
5. List of important contact numbers such as medical, dental, etc… with descriptor.
6. Medical Insurance Numbers.
7. Photo of child with the parent and photo of parent with child. (If traveling in a group, put all of the individual photos of everyone on a sheet of paper and xerox a copy for every person in the group.)
8. Copy of passport.

We hope this part was not a downer for you. I just know that being prepared is always best. I would rather have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Now that we are finished with this issue, lets relax and enjoy our vacation.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

I Am Staying at My Timeshare. What do I need to bring?

In addition to using our regular packing lists for Women and Men’s personal belongings, you really need an itemized list of what to bring when you are staying in a condo. Since we usually drive to the condo we are staying at, it is much easier to bring items from home that we know we will need.

It is a bigger challenge when flying to Hawaii or Florida or Cabo to stay in a condo. Do you really want to bring half the kitchen with you, especially when you have to pay for extra suitcases? Heck, at $25 or more for an extra suitcase, you can probably buy and toss most of the “Bring from Home” items and save some money as well.

Of course, the first thing you need to do is check with your timeshare company, either by phone or on their online site, to see what is provided at the timeshare. Then, of course, you need to decide what you will want to eat and do so that you can create your personal shopping list.

To give you an idea of what we bring, check out “Our Must Haves List” below.

Our experience has shown us that the items in the first group on the left are not available in most timeshare condos, so we bring them from home. The second column at the top are items we bring from home so that we don’t end up buying things in larger quantities at the store that we won’t completely use on this trip and we already have them at home. Also, depending upon the size of your family group, it may be cost effective to bring pancake mix and/or Bisquick from home too. The home-made apricot jam, of course, goes with the peanut butter. But we also spoon it over pork chops along with a little white wine for a great juicy pork chop. Also works great if you are doing a little sweet and sour sauce, use the jam and the vinegar. The celery seeds and vinegar can also be used for making coleslaw. Buy it ready-made if you prefer.

“Our Must Haves List”

Bring from Home (If Driving)
Utensils & Misc.		Spices & Misc
	Apron		Apricot Jam (Home Made)
	Baggies-Ziploc		Celery Seeds
	Cookie Sheet		Cinnamon
	Duraflame Logs		Flour (2 cups for roux)
	Foil (Aluminum)		Garlic
	Lighter for BBQ		Pappy’s or Grill Mates
	Recycled Grocery Bags		Popcorn
	Robber Gloves		Rosemary
	Sharp Knives		Salt & Pepper
	Storage Containers		Sugar
	Tongs		Taco Seasonings
	Wine Opener		Vinegar (1/2 cup)

With the following items, we can make breakfasts, lunches and dinners throughout the week.
Don’t forget to plan on a couple meals out. Don’t want to be a slave to the kitchen!

Pick up at Store
	Apple or Orange Juice		Pancake Mix & Syrup
	Bread, Croissants & Butter		Peanut Butter
	Biscuits or Bisquick		Pork Chops
	Chips & Dips		Shredded Cabbage
	Deli Meats & Cheese		Shredded Cheese
	Eggs & Bacon & Sausage		Soda & Beer
	Fresh Fruit & Veggies		Sour Cream (2)
	Ground Beef & Steaks		Spaghetti & Sauce
	Ground Italian Sausage		Tortillas (for Tacos)
	Hamburger Buns		Valveeta
	Lettuce & Tomato		Vegetable Oil
	Mayo/Ketchup/Taco Sauce		Water
	Milk & Cereal & Fruit		Wine & Wine Coolers

Click here for our Timeshare Packing List which includes meal plans, shopping list, etc… The bottom line is that if you do a little pre-planning, you can save some money, eliminate some stress, and have a great vacation!

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

Cruise – Women’s Clothing & Sundries Packing List

I am not even sure why I am writing this blog post. My wife should be writing it, but she is working on another project now, so I guess she will have to edit it to make it right. I am sure that I will forget something that she would want or need.

As with the list for the men, remember, you are packing much lighter than you usually do. They charge extra for those suitcases on the airplane, so cut it down a bit. Also, I have heard from others that when packing for a cruise, follow your list and do your packing, then take a break. Come back a day or two later and remove half of what you packed. Sounds good to me.
Also, as with the list for the men, I suggest that the women also decide now, black shoes or brown shoes. You can only pick one. Ok, since you chose black shoes that means a black belt and mixed and matched outfits that go with black. Right, everything goes with black. That is why I chose it. I love my wife in red shoes, but we are trying to pack light here!

Enough said about that unless you are planning to dress up; then bring the skirt or dress that works with the black shoes. Don’t make the mistake of bringing the brown skirt when you are bringing the black shoes.

I prefer the freestyle cruising, so I am leaving most of the dressy stuff at home. If I were packing my wife’s stuff, it would be shorts, a blouse or two, hat and sandals or walking shoes. This is a vacation, right? Well, let’s be truthful here. If my wife wants to have a dressy night at the Captain’s table, who am I to deny her that special event?

On this list I am including things for a tropical cruise as well as an Alaskan cruise. So, if you are going north, you may want to opt for warmer clothing. If you are going south, leave the heavy coat and gloves at home, and take more shorts and lightweight shirts.

Finally, since I wear glasses, you will see that I suggest bringing an extra pair. Also, since I don’t want to lose my glasses as I look over the edge of the ship to the water below, I always use eyeglass straps to keep the glasses from dropping. I can take them off and they just hang down like a pair of binoculars. And speaking of binoculars, there will be another list of general items to bring along but are not included in the clothing and sundries lists.

Clothing

Underwear (Bras, include strapless, panties, camisole/slips.)
Sleepwear (Lingerie, pajamas, sleep shirt, robe, etc…)
Shoes & Belts (Black, remember we already decided.)
Sox & hose, as needed, to go with shoes
Shoes (Yes, add some sandals, flip flops, walking shoes, etc…)
Thongs (You can decide which ones I am talking about.)
Exercise wear, including a jog bra, if you are into working out
Purses, please no more than a couple
Swimsuits and cover-up
Jewelry and accessories
Dress, skirts, blouses
Dressy wear for the Captain’s dinner
Shorts, Capris, Slacks
Windbreaker
Sweatshirt
Heavy Coat, Hat & Gloves, if needed
Raincoat with hood, if needed

Sundries

Leave the blow dryer and curling iron at home
Leave the iron at home
Ladie’s version of the DOPP kit with the various sundries that you need. Don’t forget to squeeze out the air and put the liquids in a Ziploc bag.
Lighted makeup mirror
Nail polish & remover (Don’t forget the cotton balls.)
Nail file, clippers, etc… (In the checked baggage.)
Band aids and Antiseptic Cream
Seasick Tabs (ginger root)
Lip Balm
Cold medicine/Pepto Bismol
Aspirin/Tylenol/Midol/Excedrin, etc…
Sleep Aid

Miscellaneous

Don’t pack your jewelry; put it in your carry-on baggage or purse or fanny pack. With that in mind, leave your fancy jewelry at home. Thieves target women with lots of fancy jewelry.
Make sure to pack your prescription meds with the prescriptions, also in your carry-on baggage.
Pack light. Heavy suitcases are a pain in the back and cost more when you fly to the ship.
Camera and Charger
Smart Phone and Charger
Power Strip
Extra memory cards for your camera
Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
Duct Tape (to patch suitcases, etc…)
Maps and Travel Guides
Books or Kindle
Copy of Passport
Flashlight
Alarm Clock

Click Here for a printable packing checklist.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

Cruise – Men’s Clothing & Sundries Packing List

Remember, you are packing much lighter than you usually do. They charge extra for those suitcases on the airplane, so cut it down a bit. Next, decide now, black shoes or brown shoes. You can only pick one. Ok, since you chose black shoes that means black sox and a black belt. Enough said about that unless you are planning to dress up; then bring the tuxedo or dark suit or sport coat that works with the black shoes. Don’t screw up and bring the brown sport jacket when you are bringing the black shoes.

I prefer the freestyle cruising, so I am leaving most of the dressy stuff at home. If I really had my choice it would be shorts, a Hawaiian shirt, hat and sandals or walking shoes. This is a vacation, right? Well, let’s be truthful here. If my wife wants to have a dressy night at the Captain’s table, who am I to deny her that special event?

Finally, since I wear glasses, you will see that I suggest bringing an extra pair. Also, since I don’t want to lose my glasses as I look over the edge of the ship to the water below, I always use eyeglass straps to keep the glasses from dropping. I can take them off and they just hang down like a pair of binoculars. And speaking of binoculars, there will be another list of general items to bring along, but are not included in the clothing and sundries lists.

Clothing

Underwear
PJs (leave the robe at home)
Shoes (sandals, walking shoes, dress shoes, flip flops)
Shoes (Jogging or workout shoes if you are into it)
Sox (as needed for above shoes)
Sox (If it is a long flight and you are my age, you may want to wear some of those compression sox to prevent swelling.)
Black belt
Shirts (Hawaiian, Gayabera, Golf, and maybe a dress shirt)
Shorts, Khakis, and even some dress pants
Swimsuit or two
Hat and Sunglasses
Sweaters & Sweatshirt (If going to a cold climate)
Windbreaker (Good for anywhere)
Jacket/Coat and Gloves and Knit Cap
Lightweight or Heavyweight Raincoat with Hood
Dressy Stuff (Shirt, Tie, Sport Coat, Dress Pants)
Very Dressy Stuff (Tuxedo and all the trimmings)

Sundries

My DOPP Kit (It is always ready to go from the last trip.) Just check it to make sure you refilled everything as needed. I should not have to list the stuff: eg. razor, extra blades, after shave, deodorant, shampoo, bar of soap, etc… Also, if you have plastic bottles of shampoo, etc…, make sure that you squeeze out the air and put them in a Ziploc bag in case they explode.)
Tweezers, Nail Clippers, Pocket Knife (things you cannot carry on the plane)
Sunscreen
Insect Repellent
Seasick Tabs (ginger root)
Chapstik
Band aids & Antiseptic Cream
Safety pins
Aspirin/Tylenol/Excedrin
NyQuil or generic Cold Medicine/Pepto Bismol
Sleeping Aid (Especially if you have trouble sleeping.)
Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
Prescription Meds and copy of prescription (all in carry-on)

Miscellaneous

Binoculars
Camera & Charger
Extra Memory Cards for Camera (Bring twice as many as you think you will need.)
Thumb Drive or Flash Drive to save your photos.
Power Strip
Smart Phone & Charger
Duct Tape
Maps & Travel Guides
Books or Kindle
Copy of Passports
Flashlight
Alarm Clock

Click Here for a printable packing checklist.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

Can I Use my Cell Phone When I am Traveling?

It really depends upon where you are traveling. If you are stateside, then the only issue may be the cost for roaming and using a system other than the one provided by your carrier. If you are using a no-contract system, like MetroPCS, then make sure that you pay for nationwide coverage. The last time we did that, it only cost an extra $5 per month.

Most service providers have excellent information on their websites about where they provide coverage. We have never had an issue with coverage in the Continental US, Alaska or Hawaii, but check with your service provider.

As for using your existing phone in Europe, that may be a different situation, completely dependent up on where you want to call.

For example, it may be cheaper to get a couple of disposable phones, or better yet, walkie-talkies, to use if you are just wanting to stay in touch with family members who are on the trip with you. If you are looking for a phone to call family members back home, then read on.

1) The first requirement for using a cell phone overseas is to have a phone that uses GSM (Global System Mobile) technology. T-Mobile, some AT&T phones, and the newer Sprint and Verizon smart phones are equipped with this technology. Check this out before you go if you plan to use your existing phone overseas since it often needs to be “turned on” before you leave home.

Before you get into the issue of “Unlocking” your phone, you may want to consider buying a used GSM phone, or use one of your old ones since you probably still have one around if you upgraded to a smart phone. You may not want to make these changes to your brand new smart phone.

2) You need the “unlock codes” to unlock your phone and use it overseas.

3) You will need a country-specific SIM card to buy pre-paid minutes for the country in which you are traveling. You can buy pre-paid minutes from telestial.com. The company will send you a SIM card that you use to replace the current SIM inside your phone.

Let me know how it worked for you, so that I can make necessary changes to this blog.

Thanks, and have a great trip.

P.S. I have written some additional information about using your cell phone while traveling since technology has moved forward since this blog was written. More Info Here.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

What do You Have in Your Essential Cruising Carry-on Bag?

Although men and women may see this list differently, I believe this list will meet the needs of both, especially when you consider that they each may already have in their pockets, purse or fanny pack. Everything noted here would easily fit into a lightweight backpack (day-pack), like the kids use for their book bag in school these days. And, to make things easier for all, I will suggest that everything that you both need is laid out on the bed, then packed into the two backpacks so that each of you is carrying an equal amount of weight; maybe the guy will carry a little extra. Yes, I am over 60 and I am a gentleman.

The essential carry-on bag –

	passport/money/documents/keys		toothbrush/toothpaste
	book or Kindle/deck of cards		hand lotion (3 oz or less in Ziploc bag)
	smart phone or cell phone		germicidal hand cleaner (in Ziploc bag)
	lightweight jacket/windbreaker		bottle of water
	medicines		camera/memory cards/batteries/
	ear plugs		MP3 player
	sunglasses/reading glasses if needed		Ziploc bags
	shorts, shirt/blouse, sandals		watch/jewelry
	mini flashlight/binoculars		folding tote bag/fanny pack
	pedometer		sun screen (3 oz or less in Ziploc bag)
	international diver’s strobe light (if you are worried about falling overboard)

Each person should have his or her own passport, identification, money, etc… in their own carry-on bag. Don’t include aerosols, use pump sprays.

If you stayed the night before departure in a hotel, because you arrived a day early so that you were not worried about a flight delay causing you to miss your ship, as I recommended, then you may want to transfer some stuff from your luggage to your carry-on bag and vice versa. Depending upon the flight and the amount of time I expected to be sitting in the airport, I may have had my phone chargers and even a portable DVD player or mp3 player and charger in my carry-on bag for the flight. On the other hand, my pocket-knife or mini-Leatherman would have been in my luggage. I will put the chargers and DVD player back in the luggage and the pocket-knife in my pocket so that my carry-on is lighter and only has what I will need until my luggage has arrived at my cabin.

When I get on the ship and find my cabin, I will change into my shorts, short sleeve shirt and sandals, maybe grab a book, and head up on deck to enjoy the departure. Only when it is time to dress for dinner, will I actually wonder if my luggage is in my cabin. If it’s not, then it will be casual dress for dinner, with a quick check with the cabin steward to ask about the luggage.

You will see that the laptop is not on the above list. If I do have to bring it, it will be in my backpack. I am trying to leave it at home. I can do most everything I need to do on the smart phone, except easily update my websites. I can even update my blog with my smart phone. If I save enough money, maybe I will add a tablet or notebook to the list. Have I missed anything? Is there something you would add to this checklist?

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

How Ready to Cruise Are You?

Here’s a Timeline for Cruise Planning

If you are anything like me, you booked your April 2012 cruise in April of 2011. You’ve already made sure that you have your passport, etc… But, not everyone is like me. So, for everyone else, if you are planning to take a cruise next year, I am providing you the long version of the planning timeline. After your first cruise, you will probably start at the 3-month section and move forward from there.

Also, if you have not cruised or traveled overseas before, you will soon learn that most travel agents need to have some documents up front when they are processing the booking, such as copies of the front and back of your driver’s license or other state identification as well as the front and back of your passport and your credit card. It is much easier for them to get the names spelled correctly and to handle the booking process as well as payments for you. In fact, most will ask you to complete a form, either in person or online, to capture much of the information needed. So, we will start our process about 12 months out to give you time to take care of all of these first-time issues.

Some of the things I will cover here may not apply to every cruise you take, but there are things here to review to ensure that you don’t miss something important. Also, as part of your cruise planning process, we will touch on a very important issue later that is just as important as planning your cruise. That is, making sure that you did the things at home you needed to do before you left. You really don’t want to have to call your neighbors and ask them to go to your house to make sure you unplugged the iron before you left, so we will have a checklist for that too.

12 months before your cruise

If you are still working, put in your vacation request. In most companies, first come equals first serve.
Check the weather. What? My wife really likes to know the weather before we go do something, so if we are going to be in Rome next July, she wants to know the weather so that she can plan on what to wear. So, by checking the weather when you start your plan, you will have a good idea of what it will be when you arrive. If you try to check the weather three months out, it won’t work out so easy.
Pull your passport out of the safe and check the dates. Now, check with the State Department as well as the Consulates for the countries you will be visiting. Some countries won’t let you enter on a passport that is brand new or one that is about to expire. So, check it out to determine if you need to renew your passport or not. Also, if the kids are traveling with you, check their passports too. They are only good for 5 years, so they will expire before yours do. Go to our website links. On that page there is a neat drop down link on the left side of the page. When it opens, it is on the TSA page. Great info here. Click on the down arrow then click on US Passports.
Oh, I was just making the assumption that you already had a passport. If not, then it’s time to apply. Here is a link to download the passport application. As one of the guys on TV says, “Get ’er Done!”. See link in previous comment.
Gather the necessary identification needed. If you need to replace a lost birth certificate, apply for a new passport, or renew one that is about to expire, start the paperwork now. Doing it at the last minute is stressful and often costly.
Apply for any visas required by the countries on your itinerary. Use the link above to get on the Visas page. You will see a link to Visas on that page. If you are taking a river cruise, often times you will need a letter of intent from the river cruise company to present at the consulate to get the visa. Don’t forget to ask your travel agent about it.
While you are on our links page, click that down arrow I pointed out a minute ago and click on the Travel Abroad, Travel Warnings, US Customs and the Travel Health links before you go any further.
Speaking of Travel Health, remember that when you book your cruise, you want to make the travel insurance decision at that time. So take the time now to talk with your travel agent about travel insurance. You can buy insurance through the cruise company as well as through a separate company such as Travel Guard. Lots of options so now is a good time to think about it. You can check out the Travel Guard Insurance link here so that you have already made that decision before you talk with your agent. It is also a good idea to log onto the public site for the cruise line you will be taking and read their insurance page so that you can compare coverage. You are spending good money for this trip, don’t loose it because health issues or some other emergency requires you to cancel the trip.
Go ahead, book your cruise now. You will get the best prices, the best choice of cabins, etc… In fact, if you are going to be on a ship you have sailed before and loved the cabin and already know where everything is from that cabin, you can even book the same cabin if you plan early enough.
International Driving Permit. Not now, look at 3 months before your cruise. They are generally only good for 1 year.

6 to 9 months before your cruise

I like to make monthly payments toward the cruise after making the initial deposit, or start setting money aside in my travel savings account, so that I don’t need to worry about a lump sum later, especially if I am making my own air arrangements.
I want to be sure that I have most of the cruise paid off before I have to order my air package and rental car, if I am going to use one.
Also, if you have meal preferences, special dietary needs, will need a wheelchair, oxygen, or medications while traveling, talk to your travel agent now so that they can make the appropriate arrangements for you.
Get your walking shoes and backpack. Later in this blog I talk about using a backpack rather than dragging a suitcase as your carry-on. We will also talk about carry-on essentials later. It is a good idea to get it now and get used to it. Also, to do that, you should start walking so that you will be in shape for all the walking you will do on the ship and on those exciting excursions. So, get that new pair of walking shoes now so that they will be broken in before you start the trip. You don’t want a bunch of nasty blisters on your trip. You will even want to start wearing your backpack on those walks to get used to it, and break it in, as well. Fill it with a couple of water bottles for a little weight, or just walk to the market with an empty backpack, pick up a few items, like a bag of apples, and walk back home. Great exercise and you will have saved the cost of gas. You will even have an apple to munch on as you walk back home.

3 months before your cruise

International Driving Permit. If you are planning a European cruise you really want to make the best of the expensive air fare so you will probably plan a few days or a week before or after the cruise to see part of Europe. If you plan to drive and need an international driving permit in addition to your home driver’s license. They are generally only good for 1 year. You can get it through AAA. You can type in the boxes on the form then print it out and mail it to AAA or take it to your local AAA office. Read the document carefully and it will explain what you need, such as photos, etc… Again I will say, go to our website links, and click on the International Travel link and to see if there are any special requirements for the country in which you will be driving.
If you have not already done so, make the final payment on your cruise fare. Due dates vary by cruise lines and certain itineraries, but your travel agent should remind you when the payment date draws near. Failure to submit the balance due on time can result in the cancellation of your reservation. Wouldn’t that be a bummer, after you went to all the trouble to get your passport.
Look over your Packing Lists and print out a list for each person for whom you will be packing. I am currently working on updating the individual packing list for men, women, babies and travel essentials.
If you have not already done so, log on to your cruise company website and fill out the info they need for each of the passengers, so that they can prepare your e-docs.
Start planning your wardrobe now. Try things on to ensure they fit and are in good repair (it’s amazing that they fit the last time you wore them). Set things aside in your closet. In fact, if you have an extra bedroom, start putting your cruise clothes in there, so you won’t accidentally pull them from your cruise wardrobe. Please understand that I am a guy, although my wife does edit these posts, and I may miss out on some issues that are important to women but not to us guys, so, please don’t hesitate to make a comment below if you notice that I have missed something important.
If you are a woman and need to shop, get started so you have time to find just the right thing (and perhaps to return or exchange just the right thing). I don’t think us guys really know anything about just the right thing. You may also need to allow time for alterations. Start early—last minute shopping for just the right thing can be hazardous to your nerves and your pocketbook. (This is an example of what I noted above. I have no idea about just the right thing, but my wife insisted that it was really important. Hey, shorts and a nice guayabera and I am set.)
If you have pets, it is time to make kennel reservations. (If you are traveling during a holiday period, you may need to do this even earlier.)
If you are going to have a house sitter, make your arrangements now.
If you purchased an air/sea package, call your travel agent for the details of your airline schedule. Request seat assignments and any special airline meals. Ask your travel agent to sign you up for email or text notifications of any flight changes.
If you did not purchase an air/sea package, you should be on Kayak.com checking out the airfares and or car rental info. If you don’t know it already, domestic air service (non-international air service) does not support the travel agent industry if you buy just airline tickets by themselves, so most agents will recommend you buy the complete package, so that they can get you a discount, or having you do your own air or car rental, if you don’t do them when you order your cruise. If you are traveling overseas, buy the complete package, including the excursions. You will save big money over doing it separately. Also, if your travel agent books the air with the cruise, and your flight is late, the cruise company will take care of getting you to the ship. If you book it on your own, sorry, but you missed the boat. Also, if your agent has booked your excursions through the cruise line and it is running late getting back to the ship, the ship will wait for you. If you booked the excursion on our own, or from some cheap operator at the dock, and they are late. Guess what, yes, you missed the boat. Hope you have some $$ in your pocket along with your passport because you will need to get yourself to the next port of call before the ship sets sail again.

If you are cruising, but your kids are staying with a trusted family member: (I don’t know about you, but we never had one of those around, so we waited until the kids were older, or we took them along with us.)

Make childcare arrangements.
Go over children’s schedules to ensure they’ll have everything they need while you are gone (a gift for Jimmie’s birthday party, supplies for school project, a permission slip for the field trip). You may need to check in with the children’s teachers to get field trip permission slips ahead of time.
Ensure the person who is taking care of your kids has been signed up at the school and the after-school program, so that they can legally pick up your kids. You have to authorize it with your provider beforehand. It is a good idea to take the person in and introduce him/her to your after-school provider.
If you have small children, you may want to put together a small bag of treats for them to open each day while you’re gone—tape yourself reading a favorite bedtime story or singing a lullaby (as long as it’s you, it will sound fantastic to them).

1 month before your cruise

If you have not already done it, you may want to take care of onboard gratuities now, so that you don’t have to worry about having to pay for them with your credit card at the end of the trip. Hey, if you are like a lot of people, you will be floored by your bar bill and you don’t want to add insult to injury with a lot of extra expenses.
If your children are sailing with you, start laying out their clothes now. I did not suggest it earlier because they grow so much when they are little; the ones you would have laid out 3 months ago might not fit them now.
Make appointments for any personal services you wish to have prior to your cruise. For example, a haircut, manicure, pedicure, spray tan, etc.
Get out your luggage, and check the locks and zippers. Check for anything that might have spilled inside on a previous trip. (Yes, you should have done that before you put everything away, but just in case you didn’t, do it now.)
If you need new luggage or want an extra piece to bring home your souvenirs, do it now. I sometimes pack the smaller suitcase full, then pack it inside the larger suitcase with clothes around it, so that I can take it out and fill it with souvenirs on the trip home. You might even plan on packing a lightweight backpack in your suitcase to haul the souvenirs home.
If you did not book those excursions when you booked the cruise and did not add them 2 months ago when I discussed it again, do it now. Go back and read the 3 months before your cruise and you will remember why.

2 to 4 weeks before your cruise

Pick up your cruise documents from the travel agent (or receive them by mail or emailed e-documents). If you have not already done so, you should order any excursions you take during your port visits. Talk with your travel agent about these excursions.
Examine the documents for accuracy (correct cabin number, sailing date, and dining arrangements) and make sure that names are spelled correctly. If there is something you don’t understand, ask your travel agent or the cruise line now.
Read all the literature in your document package for suggestions specific to your cruise. Most cruise lines include helpful information.
Go over your personalized packing list again. Finish shopping.
Do you remember earlier, about a year ago, I suggested that you check out our links page, click that down arrow I pointed out and click on the Travel Abroad, Travel Warnings and the Travel Health links before you go any further. Well, this is a good time to do it again.

1 week before your cruise

Finalize your packing list, and continue organizing everything in that guest bedroom.
Buy extra media cards and check the batteries in your camera. Since you don’t want to carry a lot of extra weight, leave the rechargeable batteries at home because you would have to carry the charger too. Plan on using disposable batteries during the trip.
If you take medications, make sure to refill prescriptions so that you don’t run out during the trip. Bring along a copy of the prescription, if this is critical medication and put medication in your carry-on bag. It is not a good idea to take the medications out of their prescription bottles and dump them together to save space. If you are taking prescription drugs for pain, such as morphine sulfate, you might want to check with the cruise line to see if they need any special notification.
Make two photocopies of your passport or ID and credit cards. Leave one copy with a friend and carry the other separately from the originals.
Get cash and/or traveler’s checks at the bank. If you use traveler’s checks, keep a separate record of the serial numbers. (Does anyone use traveler’s checks anymore?) Get a supply of one-dollar bills for tipping baggage handlers (at the airport, hotel, pier, etc.).
If you are visiting Ports of Call other than in the Caribbean, you might want to exchange some money ahead of time.
You may also want to put valuables and jewelry that you won’t be taking with you on the trip in your home safe or in the safety deposit box while you’re at your bank. (You may want to put some of the contents of your wallet, like your extra credit cards, in the safety deposit box as well.)
Arrange to have your mail held at the post office, or ask a neighbor to pick it up.
Stop newspaper delivery, or ask a neighbor to bring it in for you.
Arrange for lawn and houseplant care, or snow removal, during your absence (if necessary).
Leave your itinerary, the ship’s telephone number (plus the name of your ship and your stateroom number), and a house key with a relative or friend. If the ship’s telephone number is not included in your documents, your travel agent can obtain it for you.
If traveling with small children, purchase little games or toys to keep them occupied while en route to your embarkation port.

3 days before your cruise

Confirm your airline flights; departure times are sometimes subject to change.
Put a card with your name, address, and itinerary inside each suitcase.
Fill out your luggage tags, and follow the instructions in your cruise documents regarding attaching them.
If you are flying into the port city the day before, always a good idea, don’t put on the cruise luggage tags until you are at the hotel the night before your cruise.
Complete any other paperwork that the cruise line included with your documents (foreign customs & immigration forms, etc). Do NOT wait until you are standing in the pier check-in line to fill them in!
Do last minute laundry and tidy up the house.
Pull out the luggage and begin packing.
When you lay out your clothes prior to packing, don’t pack all of your stuff in your bags and all of your partner’s stuff in their bag. If two of you are traveling and you are taking two bags apiece, in addition to your personal carry-on, then divide your stuff into four equal piles and put one quarter of it into each bag. Your partner does the same. That way, if a suitcase is lost by the airlines, each of you will have clothes to wear.
Finally, when you pack your carry-on bag, make sure to follow our carry-on checklist because it will suggest that you pack your swimsuit, etc… in your carry-on along with your personal stuff, like your medications and a book to read on the airplane, because your luggage may be awhile before you get access to your cabin. Don’t forget that tonight is casual night. If your luggage is slow in arriving, you can show up for dinner in your travel clothes. And remember, this is vacation.
While we are talking about your carry-on bag, I highly suggest that it is a backpack-style bag rather than a suitcase style bag. When you get on the airplane, as well as when you board the ship, you don’t want to be carrying or dragging a small suitcase with you. A backpack is so much easier, and you will love the freedom it gives you.

The day before departure

Take pets to the kennel.
Water houseplants and lawn (if necessary).
Dispose of any perishable food in the refrigerator.
Mail any last minute bills.
Set timers for indoor lights.
If you didn’t already to it, clean out your wallet/purse. Remove anything you won’t need (check cashing cards, department store, or gas credit cards, etc), and put them in your home safe, or in your safe deposit box at the bank.
Finish packing and lock your suitcases. If you are flying, make sure the locks are approved by the TSA.

Departure day

Adjust the thermostat and double-check the door locks.
Turn off the water if there is danger of frozen pipes while you are away.
Unplug the iron.
If you didn’t already, read my “Leaving Home Checklist” to ensure you didn’t forget to do something before you leave.
Arrange to be at the airport a minimum of two hours before your departure time. (Or earlier for international flights—follow the airline’s instructions.)
Have photo ID and/or passport ready for check-in.
Slip your car keys, parking claim checks, and airline tickets in your carry-on luggage. Never check these items.

You’ve arrived! RELAX! Now is a great time to get the beverage of your choice, find a place on deck where you can enjoy the departure, and say goodbye to the rush!

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you. Check out the important links below.

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!

You may also want to visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/TeamEdwardsTravel

Team Edwards Travel

Turning Dreams into Memories

What to Bring

Panama Canal, Here We Come: 45 Days Before Departure

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Planning Your Next Vacation to a Foreign Country; What Should You Do First?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

We’re On Vacation; What Did We Forget?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

I’m Flying to Hawaii With My Children. What Documents Do I Need If My Spouse Is Not Traveling With Me?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

I Am Staying at My Timeshare. What do I need to bring?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Cruise – Women’s Clothing & Sundries Packing List

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Cruise – Men’s Clothing & Sundries Packing List

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Can I Use my Cell Phone When I am Traveling?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

What do You Have in Your Essential Cruising Carry-on Bag?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

How Ready to Cruise Are You?

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories, One Vacation at a Time. Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!