It seems our world is smaller

than ever – and we want to see

every corner of it. Whether

you’re planning – or just

thinking about – a trip to

Europe, Africa or Asia, we’ll get

you started with interesting

facts and helpful tips.

Courtesy of the Fast Park family of Airport Parking Solutions

International Travel TipsInternational Travel Tips

1 Published September 2015 | www.TheFastPark.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Business Trip Basics

International Travel

International Trips

First-Time Travelers

Tips for Families

See the WorldLet’s get your trip started! Whether this is your first trip out of the country or you’re a jetsetter crossing more international destinations off of your list, we can help ensure your next trip is relaxing and fun. At the beginning of the trip, we know you’re excited about the destination you’re about to visit and are paging through your guidebook while waiting in the custom’s line. On the way back, you probably can’t wait to share those vacation photos and stories, but you have a long flight – and another custom’s line – standing in your way. We’ll

help you navigate the ups, the downs, the requirements and policies and even help you find a little extra room in your suitcase for that one final souvenir.• First-Time Travelers • Best International Trips • Tips for Families • Business Trip Basics • Frequently Asked Questions

InternationalTravel

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First-TimeTravelers

Planning your first international travel experience can be exciting, but you also have a lot to consider. From packing well to planning the perfect itinerary and everything in between, it may feel a little overwhelming at times. We’ll get you started on two very important pieces: getting your passport and managing your money. Without those, you aren’t going to get too far.

Get a passportReady to apply for your first passport? Here is your simple checklist to obtaining one:

Plan ahead: Applying for a passport can be a long process. Allow at least ten weeks to process your application, or you could face steep fees and last-minute approvals that could have you sweating it out right before you’re supposed to depart.

Have important documents ready: You need a proof of citizenship (i.e. a birth certificate) and a proof of identity (i.e. your driver’s license or government-issued ID). Send in original copies of these documents with your passport application.

Get photo-ready: A passport photo must be provided with your application. Among other specifications, it needs to be a specific size (2x2 inches), taken within the last six months and feature a neutral expression. While you can take the photo yourself, we recommend putting the smartphone away and having a professional passport photo service take it for you. Most chain drugstores offer this service at a very reasonable price.

Complete the paperwork: Fill out the DS-11 form and take it to the nearest acceptance facility.

Calculate the fees: For adults, your first passport book will cost $135. A minor (under age 16) passport book is $105. Passport card options cost less, but can only be used when traveling to certain countries by land or sea.

Track the application: You can easily keep track of your application’s status online.

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First-TimeTravelers (continued)

Money mattersAlmost as important as your passport is understanding how to manage your money overseas. Credit cards, cash and traveler’s checks are all options, but the right choice for you should be based on where you’re going. Below is a general list of the pros and cons of each; you should always research the country and/or city you’re traveling to, so you understand your options fully.

Credit cards Pros:• Credit cards typically offer the best-possible exchange

rate.• You can cancel the card easily if it is lost or stolen.• You can review your purchases when you return home

to avoid fraud or identity theft.Cons:• Some cards aren’t universally accepted. Always check

to ensure your card is accepted before you try to make a purchase.

• Review guidelines to determine whether your destination transitioned to “chip and PIN” credit cards, which are making their way to the U.S. in 2015.

Also, make sure you call your credit card provider before you leave to alert the company that, yes, the Parisian pastry will be an authorized transaction.

CashPros:• Cash (in the country’s currency) is accepted

anywhere, whether you’re at a small vendor’s booth or a nice restaurant.

• If you have a few small coins or bills leftover, you can take them home as inexpensive souvenirs.

Cons:• Currency conversion fees can change frequently and

depend on where you’re changing your money. Make sure you research ahead of time and exchange or withdraw from an ATM large amounts to cut down on the number of fees.

• If you misplace your wallet or your purse is stolen, you are not able recover any of your cash.

Traveler’s checks Pros:• They can be replaced within 24 hours if lost or stolen.• Traveler’s “checks,” which are now in the form of

pre-paid cards, are a great item to stow in a safe place – in case of emergencies.

Cons:• Many vendors do not accept traveler’s checks.• Exchange rates are not as good as credit cards or cash.

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Whether you’re looking for a couple’s trip, a solo getaway or a destination for the entire family, we found a few spots that are sure to provide an educational, memorable and worldly experience. A quick Internet search will uncover innumerable lists that highlight the best international vacations, but we’ve summed up a few of our favorites and why we think they’ll be adventures of a lifetime!

Travel alerts and warnings: always research as much as you can about the international destination you’re interested in exploring. The U.S. Department of State provides safety and security information as well as up-to-date travel warnings.

Copenhagen, DenmarkOfficial language. Danish; most Danes understand and speak some English.

Currency. U.S. dollars must be exchanged for the Danish Kroner; all international credit cards are accepted, although many shops require a card that uses the “chip or PIN” system.

Where is it? Denmark is a country in Northern Europe. It borders the Baltic Sea and the North Sea on a peninsula north of Germany. In comparison, it is slightly less than twice the size of Massachusetts.

Must-see attractions. The Christianborg Palace is a great place to spend the entire day. You can see the royal stables, climb the tower and even venture under the palace to see ruins. Treat yourself to some shopping at Strøget, and be sure to climb The Round Tower – it’s the oldest functioning observatory in Europe.

Family-friendly tips, Denmark is a safe and relaxed country with many family-friendly sites. Copenhagen is home to The Little Mermaid statue in the harbor, Amalienborg Palace (the Danish royal family residence since 1794), Tivoli Gardens, Wheel of Copenhagen (a Ferris wheel similar to the London Eye), Bakken (the world’s oldest amusement park) and a wonderful zoo, aquarium and national museum.

When to go. June is highly recommended with its long

days and warm weather, while July and August are good alternatives. However, July and August are also the most popular tourist months, so you will experience more crowds. If you want to avoid the high season altogether, May and September are good months to target.

BelizeOfficial language. English, but unique dialects are spoken throughout.

Currency. U.S. dollars are accepted throughout the country but can also be exchanged for the Belize dollar. Most accommodations and tours will be listed in U.S. dollars while most restaurants, shops, etc. are listed in Belize dollars.

Where is it? Belize is located in Central America. It is bordered to the north by Mexico, to the south and west by Guatemala and to the east by the Caribbean Sea.

Must-see attractions. Grab your hiking boots and climb Ca’ana, the tallest Mayan structure in Belize. Towering 140 feet high, the pyramid has amazing views of the jungle surrounding it. No trip is complete without a stop at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. As the world’s first jaguar preserve, it has made great strides to protect the animal in its natural habitat.

Family-friendly tips. The average yearly temperature in Belize is 84°F, so it’s always warm, yet comfortable. If your family loves to be outdoors, this is the place for you. From exploring ancient Mayan temples to scuba diving inside and outside the Belize Barrier Reef, the incredible beauty of this country will not disappoint. There are also beautiful beaches where “shirts, shoes and worries are optional.”

When to go. While the weather in Belize makes it a great place to visit nearly year-round, the high season is from November to May while the low season is from June to October.

InternationalTrips

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Florence, ItalyOfficial language. Italian

Currency. The Euro is the official currency.

Where is it? Florence is in northern Italy.

Must-see attractions. The city has an endless number of stunning cathedrals that could fill days of sightseeing. Rent a Vespa to tour the town instead of booking a bus or renting a car. Art lovers will get lost in the Uffizi Gallery. Try to pre-purchase your museum tickets, otherwise you could be waiting in a five-hour-long line!

Family-friendly tips. Italy has a reputation for being very child-friendly. Its paved streets make Florence easy to navigate with strollers and with gelato on every corner travelers of all ages will be very happy. From its antique wood carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica to its many museums and tours, Florence makes for the perfect family trip.

When to go. High season in Italy is mid-June through August, while low season is November through March.

The Galapagos IslandsOfficial language. Spanish

Currency. The U.S. dollar is the official currency on the Galapagos Islands.

Where is it? The island group is located on the Equator in the Pacific Ocean.

Must-see attractions. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike through the island’s lava tunnels. While the trek will involve a little crawling, we promise it’s worth the effort! Don’t miss your favorite bird, reptile, mammal or fish while you’re on the islands. Visit the Galapagos Island online photo gallery to see where each animal lives.

Family-friendly tips. You will be following in Charles Darwin’s footsteps when you travel around the Galapagos Islands. Animal lovers will have a great time exploring the islands and seeing the amazing natural life. From walking paths to boat rides, you’ll find a tour the entire family can enjoy.

When to go. While it’s never a bad time to visit the islands, high travel season usually ranges from mid-June through early September, then again from mid-December through mid-January. The rainy season lasts from December through May, but it’s a little warmer during this time.

Quebec City, CanadaOfficial language. French, but more than a third of city residents can also speak English

Currency. The Canadian dollar is the official currency, but the U.S. dollar is widely accepted.

Where is it? Quebec City is the second largest city in Quebec after Montreal. Located on the north bank of the Saint Lawrence River, the low-lying city is surrounded by the Laurentian Mountains and Cap-Diamant (Cape Diamond).

Must-see attractions. Take a stroll through Old Québec. This UNESCO World Heritage site has beautiful architecture, horse-drawn carriages and street performers – you’ll think you stepped back into history! Before you leave, stop by Montmorency Falls Park to see the 83-meter-tall waterfall. Even taller than Niagara Falls, this breath-taking site is visible from either a gondola ride or by trekking along walking trails.

Family-friendly tips. The French-Canadian culture is very child-oriented with walkways built to accommodate strollers and breastfeeding-friendly decals in many restaurant windows. Families love the annual Expo Quebec, not only for the fun rides and activities for all ages, but also for its farm animals, science pavilion and fascinating exhibits.

When to go. The best times to visit Quebec City are June through September and December through February. These times are packed with festivals and seasonal celebrations like Carnaval.

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Paris, FranceOfficial language. French

Currency. The Euro is the official currency.

Where is it? Located on the bank of the Seine River, the city of Paris is in the northern central area of France. With more than two million inhabitants, it is the fifth largest city in the European Union.

Must-see attractions. After your obligatory stops at the Eiffel Tour and L’Arc de Triomphe, tour the city’s amazing museums. Say “hi” to the Mona Lisa at the Louvre or visit the Musée d’Orsay to see the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art – in a converted railway station. Shop for food and wine on Rue des Martyrs. From fruit and fish to high-end pastries and chocolatiers, you’ll find great food – and enjoy great people watching.

Family-friendly tips. Paris is often recommended as the best place to visit for families traveling to Europe. The city is packed with child-friendly activities like the bird market, marionette shows, and the Luxembourg Gardens’ toy sailboats and carousel.

When to go. The best time to visit Paris is from June to August. The temperatures are in the mid-70s and the days are longer, allowing more time to enjoy all the outdoor dining and cafés the city has to offer.

Sydney, AustraliaOfficial language. There is no official language, but around 75 percent of the residents speak English.

Currency. The Australian dollar is the official currency.

Where is it? Sydney is located on Australia’s east coast, surrounded by one of the world’s largest natural harbors and the Blue Mountains to the west.

Must-see attractions. If you can plan a trip in January, stop by the Sydney Festival. The city center transforms into a cultural event filled with music, art and surprise performances. Even if you can’t make it to the Sydney Festival, you’ll find great live music throughout the city all year long. From major concerts to local performers, you’ll find something to fit your tastes.

Family-friendly tips. Australia offers lots of great opportunities for family fun including Bondi Beach, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the famous Sydney Opera House. The view from Mrs Macquaries Point is renowned for being one of the best in the world, with full views of both the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

When to go. Although Sydney has comfortable temperatures year round, the best time to visit is from late September to early December to avoid the high tourist season during the start of America’s winter.

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TipsForFamilies

Everyone needs a passportYes, even the baby needs a passport to travel internationally. Once you apply, it could take anywhere from four to six weeks for the passports to process, so plan accordingly. For first-time applicants a passport book is $135 (age 16+) or $105 (under age 16). Passport applications for minors must be submitted in person with the child accompanied by both parents or guardians. If one parent/guardian is unable to appear in person, a signed and notarized Statement of Consent form must be submitted. Visit the U.S. Passports & International Travel site for more info.

See a doc before you departIn fact, you may want to schedule doctor visits for each family member a couple of months in advance of your trip. Some immunizations and vaccinations can take up to six weeks to be fully effective. Also, check your health insurance to understand what it covers if you need medical attention overseas.

Research the best time to goThose darn work and school schedules often dictate when we are able to travel. However, if you are afforded some flexibility, it pays to research your destination’s high and low seasons. It could save you significant time (less crowds) and money (better rates).

Learn about the cultureThe best part about traveling internationally is teaching your kids about a culture that’s different from their own. Travel books and online resources are readily available and can help prep them for all kinds of exciting adventures. Visit our Family Travel pages for more tips on planning an educational vacation.

Talk about the foodDepending on where you’re going, this can be a tricky venture in particular for picky eaters. All the more reason to explore and talk about local foods ahead of time. Buffets are often good choices abroad to offer a wide range of options. Or visit an ethic restaurant or grocery store and plan a meal or two to get them acquainted with what they may find on the trip.

Discuss the importance of safety Without scaring the kids too much, it is important to talk about being vigilant and staying safe in a foreign country. Depending on where you’re going, it’s important to talk about being respectful of the culture and understanding the

differences. It’s always important to be vigilant and alert while sight-seeing. Make sure you have a pre-determined meeting area; know where the U.S. consulate or embassy is located and show the kids what local law enforcement officers look like if they get lost. If your children are younger, write down your contact information on an index card and place it in each child’s pocket.

Prepare for the long flightLet your little ones pack their own small carry-on so they can make decisions on activities to bring – coloring books, electronics, headphones, you name it! Don’t sit idle in the terminal. Let them burn off some energy before you board. Many airports now have interactive play areas for kids. Our Family Travel section has more tips on keeping your children amused during the flight.

Pack smarterInstead of having a suitcase for each person, mix up the clothes inside. This way if one luggage gets lost or delayed, one person isn’t completely out of luck. Again, have the kids participate in packing so they can decide which favorite outfits and toys they want to bring. And pack lightly! You can (and should) repeat outfits. Most accommodations have washers and dryers, but it’s a good idea to check ahead of time just to be sure. Check out more Last-Minute Tips in our Family Travel section.

Update your child’s teachersAs much as you try to avoid it, sometimes planning a trip during the school year is your best option. If you need to schedule a getaway while your little one is still in school, work with his or her teachers to develop a plan. Not only can your child do a little homework on the flight to avoid getting far behind in classwork, they might be able to give a presentation when you return about everything they’ve learned. It’s never too early to start working on those public-speaking skills!

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BusinessTripBasics

Many of the international jetsetters we see are heading off to a business trip. But, it doesn’t have to be all business and no pleasure! From fighting jetlag to squeezing in some incredible sightseeing, we’ll help you make the most of your next international business trip.

Overcome jetlag fasterOften, there’s little time between stepping off the plane and heading into your first meeting. Jetlag can easily delay you from giving an important presentation or impressing a key client. Instead of suffering through the time change, these small changes could save your trip and get you back on track faster.• Shift your bedtime before you leave: Check the

time difference and start moving your bedtime by an hour or two in the weeks leading up to your trip so your body adjusts faster to your destination’s time zone.

• Eat right: Choose the chicken breast instead of the heavy pasta for your in-flight meal. A lighter, protein-packed meal in the air will help you recover faster on the ground.

• Avoid alcohol or caffeine: Don’t sip on anything that might prevent you from sleeping those first couple of nights. Keep yourself awake as long as possible, but relaxed enough to fall right asleep when it’s time.

• Change your watch: It may sound simple but before you take off, set your watch to the local time. Getting your mind adjusted is part of the battle. Avoid calculating what time it would be at home – that may just make you even more tired.

Schedule sightseeingWe know your schedule is probably going to be packed with meetings and important dinners. Even if you only have 30 free minutes, squeeze in any opportunity to see the sights. Try these tips:• If you book your own travel, choose a hotel located

near attractions. Keep in mind, prices will be higher near the hottest sights.

• Talk with the concierge as soon as you arrive to identify the quick tours or must-try restaurants you can squeeze in before you leave.

• If appropriate, suggest meeting your contact at a museum café or a restaurant near an area you’d like to explore. What could be better than talking shop in a restaurant within walking distance of the Louvre?

• Give yourself a little extra time when you’re heading back to the U.S., especially if you’re gaining time when you fly back. Those extra minutes will pay off as you marvel about life’s mysteries at Stonehenge.

Use your phoneIt’s critical to check your phone plan before you leave. If you want to use your smartphone to stay connected to the office, or your loved ones, you’ll need to do a little pre-trip planning.

Most major U.S. carriers offer pay-as-you-use-it voice and data packages for customers traveling overseas. Check your carrier’s website for the cost of roaming fees for calls, text messages and data.

If you’re a frequent overseas traveler, consider upgrading your plan to include international travel. These packages add an extra fee to your monthly bill, but will “unlock” your phone to use anywhere in the world.

Make sure you can driveWhile many countries will accept your U.S. license, some will not. If you are traveling to an English-speaking country, you should be just fine. For those traveling to a non-English-speaking country, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP). The permit will allow you to get behind the wheel of vehicles in more than 150 countries.

You can get an IDP from AAA or the National Auto Club. Just visit one of these organizations with your valid U.S. driver’s license, $15 and two passport-size photos. The entire process should take around half an hour, and you can walk out with your permit. No driving test required! If you cannot visit an office, just fill out the application and send it to one of the organizations. Mail requests are usually processed in two days.

Remember that the IDP is just a permit. You will still need to present your U.S. license to drive a vehicle.

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BusinessTripBasics (continued)

Be on your best behavior Even if you’re well acquainted with the customer or client you’re flying to visit, it’s important to research common etiquette and culture for your destination. A guidebook and a quick Google search are great places to start. Understanding nuances, like Spanish business dinners lasting long into the night, Germans preferring to avoid business talk at a meal and Japanese people appreciating the time you take to admire their business card, will keep you from accidentally offending your hosts or their colleagues.

If you’re traveling to a non-English-speaking country, try to learn a few basic phrases in the native language.

While no one will expect you to be fluent, being able to say, “hello,” “thank you” and “nice to meet you” will go a long way.

Gift giving can cause another sticky situation. In some countries, like Poland, China or Hong Kong, a gift is expected. Elsewhere, like Portugal, Finland or Venezuela, gifts are only expected if you’re making multiple trips, and in countries like the U.K., Australia and Italy, gifts are infrequently given. Guidebooks will help you determine whether you need to bring a gift and what kind would be well received.

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FrequentlyAskedQuestions

We asked around and found some of the most frequently asked questions about international travel. Did we miss your question? Ask us on Facebook or Twitter, and we’ll find an answer for you!

1) How can I pay less for my plane ticket?We know international travel can be pricey. Our blog post about when to book your flight helps suggest good times to purchase your tickets; but the number of days before your trip is only part of the equation.

You might also save money if you are able to book your flight out of one city and into another. For example, if you live in Washington, D.C., you could save some money by booking your flight out of DCA and your return flight into BWI. Don’t forget to drop your car off at BWI before you leave then hop on the Metro!

2) Do I really need travelers insurance?The short – and indecisive – answer is maybe. Travelers insurance can cover trip cancelations, lost luggage and even medical expenses during your trip. The price you’ll pay varies by the state you live in and what is included in each package, so you can tailor your insurance to your needs. Do your research before you buy and make sure you’re not purchasing more insurance than you need.

3) Where can I find travel warnings?The U.S Department of State keeps all alerts and warnings updated on its website. Alerts are generally issued for any events travelers should be aware of, for example, an upcoming election that could draw protests or an area prone to hurricanes during a specific season. Usually, it’s fairly safe to travel during these types of events, as long as you are aware of your surroundings.

Travel warnings are much more serious. These are issued when the State Department suggests you reconsider your visit to a country because of civil war, frequent terror attacks or general unrest. For some countries, like Iraq, Afghanistan or North Korea, travel warnings can be in place for many years.

4) What can I bring home?Whether you’re a coffee lover trying to bring home a few bags of a great new blend or you found an exotic fruit your loved ones have to try, you likely won’t get them past customs officers. When you arrive at U.S. customs, you’ll be asked to declare any fruits, vegetables or plant products you plan to bring back. If your specialty coffee isn’t on the list of permitted items, get ready to leave it at the airport. The USDA has a full list of regulations about what you can and can’t bring back with you.

5) What if I lose my passport?Misplacing your passport in a foreign country can be scary, but don’t panic. Ask your hotel concierge to help you find the U.S. embassy and the staff there will help. They will ask you for a passport-size photo, identification (i.e. a driver’s license), proof of citizenship (i.e. your birth certificate), your itinerary, a police report if your passport was stolen, a completed DS-11 application and a competed DS-64 statement about lost or stolen passports.

They understand you probably won’t have a birth certificate and may not have your driver’s license. Just stay calm, the embassy staff will help you get back home.

6) Do I need shots or a visa?The need for a visa or immunizations varies by country. The State Department’s website is a great resource to see requirements for any country you’d like to visit.