International Travel for Beginners

There are few things more exhilarating than your first overseas travel experience. Smarter Travel has a few helpful hints to ensure an awesome adventure.

Learn the basics: You don’t necessarily need to be fluent in the local language of your destination but knowing a few basic words will certainly be to your advantage.

Understand the currency exchange rate: Most people prefer to control their spending while traveling, a newbie tourist is a red flag for scammers and tourist traps. Knowing the cost of something in your own currency can save you from overpaying for something simply because you don’t understand the price.

How to count to 10 – Knowing basic numbers can help if you are negotiating and can keep you from having to hold up your fingers all the time.

Simple words – Know how to say “yes”, “no”, “thank you”, “hello” and “goodbye”. These words are applicable to almost any situation you find may yourself in. You may think you can coast by with head and hand gestures, but the meaning of such gestures varies based on where you are traveling.

Be less adventurous until you have your bearings: You are susceptible to all sorts of errors and bad choices upon arrival in a new country, don’t start your trip on the wrong foot.

Transportation – Take the hotel shuttle, book a taxi from an accredited taxi booth (you can usually book these online before even reaching your destination and have them waiting for you at the airport), or head for an information desk. Taking simple steps to plan ahead can help you avoid a potentially messy start to your trip.

Prepare for the complexity of international airports: International airports often serve as routine connecting or layover airports for people coming and going from all over the world. You may fly into a county’s major airport and then go to the domestic terminal to connect on a shorter flight. Arriving and connecting at busy international hubs might be a bit of a production – collecting bags and rechecking them, going through security, standing in line for passport control, and taking a train or bus between terminals. Make sure to give yourself enough time (at least 2 hours) for international connections.

Hotel managers run the hotel: International hotels are run similar to independent businesses where the manager is the one in charge. At smaller hotels and even some chains you will likely be doing all business directly with the manager. He or she can frequently negotiate price, add extras like breakfast and more. Emails to the hotel, reservation extensions and complaints are typically handled by one person.

Airport security is a special case: The process for entering the United States may be tricky whether you are a returning citizen or someone visiting from overseas. It isn’t unusual for American security to constantly change, and you may have to go through more than one security checkpoint before boarding. The second security checkpoint is usually run by the United States, so you may not have to go through further security checks once you touch down because you are technically on “United States soil” once you go through the second checkpoint. Be prepared for the fact that you might not be able to leave the gate area once you go through the second security checkpoint.

Another important best practice for international travel is to get travel insurance! You never know what may happen while you are traveling, and you can never be too prepared. TravelersAlly has plans for every type of traveler.

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Traveling Internationally? Get Global Entry

Traveling overseas can be exhausting, and there is nothing worse than waiting in a crazy long line to get through customs when arriving back in the United States. Thankfully, there is a loop hole that accelerates many of these procedures.

Global Entry is a program where you submit a background check and an in-person interview with the United States Customs and Boarder Protection at your home airport. After doing so and paying a fee of $100 (valid for five years), you can go through expedited lines at customs when you return to the U.S., in addition to using TSA pre-check when flying domestically.

Many credit cards such as The Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Citi Prestige Card offer rebates for Global Entry. As part of Choice Benefits, Delta Platinum Medallion and Diamond Medallion members can receive a $100 voucher toward Global Entry Enrollment.

LifeHacker writer Emily Price could not say enough about the benefits of Global Entry:

“It’s a service I recommend to everyone who travels, even a little bit, to get. For instance, earlier this year when my boyfriend and I returned from Italy, I was through customs in San Francisco a full hour and a half before he was, thanks to Global Entry. I walked through the same lines as flight crew at SFO, waited in zero lines and was sipping on coffee at Starbucks outside of security roughly 20 minutes after we landed. If you can save yourself the customs headache a few times over the five-year span, and use TSA Pre a few times, that $100 is well spent.”

The initial step in applying for Global Entry is filling out an online form for your background check. Click on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security image below to get the ball rolling on your application:

After a preliminary approval, you will schedule an in-person interview which may be a hassle because it sometimes takes several months to get an appointment. Emily recommends doing a walk-in appointment:

  • All Global entry offices take a few walk-in appointments each day. Arrive before they open or before lunch (Emily arrived around 10:45am).
  • Upon arrival, tell the person at the door that you are there as a walk-in for a Global Entry appointment. They will have you write down your name and tell you that you aren’t guaranteed to be seen that day but will try to be worked in.
  • Bring something to occupy yourself for a few hours. You may be called upon soon after arrival but come in with the idea that you will likely have to camp out for a while.
  • Emily was called for an appointment within 2 minutes of putting her name on the signup sheet. Her boyfriend who tried a few months later was called within 15 minutes.
  • From what she could tell (and judging by her own experience), appointments take around 5 minutes but are scheduled for 15, so there is a solid chance they will find room for you in a reasonable amount of time.
  • Make sure to bring your valid passport and one other form of identification (such as a driver’s license or ID card with your current address) to the interview.

Your wait experience might vary based on where you live, but the ease and benefits of having Global Entry are well worth the effort. Upon returning from the Caribbean recently (and waiting in a claustrophobic customs line for over an hour), I noticed the Global Entry kiosks that people were literally breezing through and not having to wait in line with the rest of us. I only travel internationally once a year, but you can bet that I will not leave the country again without this perk.

Add travel medical insurance from TravelersAlly to your vacation plan for peace of mind and security.

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National Insurance Awareness Day 2018

When did the concept of insurance fist start? Surprisingly, a lot earlier than one would think. Insurance is found inscribed in the Code of Hammaurabi: the first written laws. It even predates what was considered the first official foundation of law. Earliest known versions are found in 3000-2000 BC. Modern age insurance as we think of it today came into existence around the time of the Great Fire of London. The devastation of this event sparked the idea of property insurance.

Up to this point in history, insurance had just been considered a type of convenience. It soon became clear to the people of London that insurance could protect a family fortune, or in this case, an entire estate in the event of disaster. Modern day insurance opens the option to insure just about anything: from your car to your vacation, and even medical insurance for your pets.

June 28th is National Insurance Awareness Day, celebrating the history and necessity of insurance and encouraging people to understand the important role it can play in their lives. Assess your plans with an agent and discuss the various types that can protect you and your family. Use the hashtag #NationalInsuranceAwarenessDay to share on social media!

TravelersAlly offers worry-free travel medical insurance, whether you’re taking a holiday, going on a short trip, or flying overseas for business.

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Graduation Adventure Safety

Graduation is an exciting milestone. Many people take overseas vacations with family, friends, or sports teams in celebration of this important life event. As exhilarating as travel can be, it is imperative to act responsibly and always be aware of people and surroundings.

USA Today recommends taking a few simple steps to increase your trip safety:

  • Choose your ground transportation wisely  – Did you know that the number one cause of death for US citizens abroad is motor vehicle crashes? (World Health Organization) Travel in a vehicle that is in good condition and has working seat belts whenever possible. Research the safety records of transportation companies prior to using them.
  • Check in with the state department – The state department provides up to date safety information for every country in the world, from suggested vaccinations to local laws and travel warnings. Register your travel plans using the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and you will be contacted and guided in the event of an emergency.
  • Review the escape route in your hotel – Take a look at the hotel’s emergency escape routes soon after arriving. It is obviously more appealing to check out the amenities right away, but if an unexpected emergency arises, you’ll be glad you prioritized safety first!
  • Leave an itinerary and emergency contact – Eliminating outside contact while on vacation can be liberating but try not to go too under the radar (especially if you’re traveling alone). Give a copy of your itinerary to a trusted family member or friend, even if its as simple as what city you are visiting and when you will return. Try and check in as much as possible so if something happens, they can alert the authorities on your behalf.
  • Scan a copy of your passport – Scan a copy of your passport and take a photo of it to save on your phone before leaving for a trip. If you need your passport while you’re out and about but its locked up in the hotel safe, you will still have full access to all your details. This will also make getting a replacement easier if your passport is stolen.
  • Don’t flash your cash or valuables – Keep your cash in a separate safe place when you go out and only take a little bit at a time. That way, you aren’t showing off a big wad of cash every time you pay for something. Use a credit card instead of a debit card because the anti-theft protection is usually better.
  • Save emergency numbers – You can’t call 911 everywhere; find out what the local emergency hotlines are and save them to your phone. Research the closest U.S. embassies or consulates and save those address and phone numbers also.

The FBI has provided a brochure that introduces possible threats that may be faced while traveling and provides tips on avoiding unsafe situations.

 

Visit TravelersAlly for your trip cancellation protection and medical coverage just in case there is a bump!

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The World is Your Classroom When Studying Abroad

Imagine swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat off the coast of Australia. How about spending the afternoon in a New Zealand landscape so stunningly beautiful, films such as The Lord of the Rings have filmed there? No, you aren’t on vacation: you are earning credits for Oceanography and biology while studying abroad!

It is a unique educational experience that will remain with you for the rest of your life. Many people have a very limited view of the world we live in and international travel is a relief from that.

In an article for the Huffington Post, employers across a vast spectrum of industries explained why applicants who studied abroad stood out during the application and interview process. Students grew both professionally and personally, learning intangible life skills along the way:

  • Creative problem-solving experience in unfamiliar situations
  • Adaptability within culturally diverse environments
  • Excellent listening and communication skills
  • Practical knowledge of a specific culture and language

Nicole van Renesse studied abroad in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji during her junior year spring semester at The University of Georgia. She shared a few of her MANY experiences:

In Australia, she learned about human geography and the colonization of Terra Nullius, the great unknown continent. Her group explored the Outback and Aboriginal communities, as well as the marine diversity of the Great Barrier Reef (Prior to the trip she was terrified of the ocean, Nicole is now a certified scuba diver that never wants to leave the water!). New Zealand taught her about environmental issues and how to live clean, green and pure. She hiked mountains, volcanoes and glaciers, learning the ancient language and culture of the Maori. Attending a lecture at Massey University in Wellington was an interesting highlight to the trip. While in Fiji, Nicole and her peers discovered the various ways in which cultures have impacted the environment and stayed with a family in a traditional Fijian village.

Studying abroad gives students the alluring experience of taking in the culture of a new land, one of the best ways to experience culture is to live it.

“The amount of knowledge that can be gained by experiencing another person’s perspective on life or their culture is something you cannot find in a book. This trip has truly changed the woman I have become today”

–  Nicole van Renesse, The University of Georgia

Choose from many unique programs to find the perfect fit for your personality and earn a variety of credits without ever having to step foot in a classroom. Study abroad is just as accessible as a regular college semester. The cost is even less than regular tuition and scholarships can still be applied to help fund the cost. Yes, you still have to take tests – but you may be sitting on the side of a mountain while doing so!

TravelersAlly has a unique set of plans designed specifically for Student Travelers. Get a quote today!

 

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Honoring Black History Month in 2018

Honoring Black History Month in 2018

Posted by Catherine Wardach on Thu, Feb 01, 2018 @ 09:45 AM

 

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Beginning on the first of February each year, our nation spends the month honoring the history and contributions of African Americans. The theme for Black History Month 2018 is “African Americans in Times of War”, spotlighting the brave men and women who served their country in the armed forces, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the American principles of freedom and democracy.

More than 2.5 million black men registered for the draft during World War II and one million served as draftees or volunteers in all branches of the armed forces. A majority of black men were assigned to segregated combat groups a decade before the American civil rights movement even started. Recognition of the African-American contribution to the war effort would eventually lay the foundation for the civil rights protests of the 1950s and 60s.

Alonzo Herndon was an African barber and entrepreneur who was also founder and president of the Atlanta Life Insurance Company, one of the most successful black-owned businesses in the nation. He was distinguished for his involvement and support of local institutions and charities devoted to evolving African American business and community life. Although born into slavery, at the time of his death in 1927, Alonzo was Atlanta’s wealthiest black citizen, owning more property than any other African American.

John Merrick was also born into slavery and relied on his social knowledge, entrepreneurial spirit, and inner drive to achieve great personal affluence. He founded various companies, most notably the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company. Through philanthropy, portions of his wealth were guided back into the black community. Merrick’s business insight and social awareness made him one of the most influential members of the African-American community in his lifetime.

Whether your trip is simple or luxurious, TravelersAlly will help find the perfect plan to keep you protected.

Topics: international medical insurance, international travel, Travel, black history month

WRITTEN BY CATHERINE WARDACH

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The Dangers of Non-Disclosure

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Many travelers are confused about which pre-existing conditions they need to declare when taking out travel medical insurance. Others fail to declare in attempts to cut costs. As a result, it seems that some decide to relinquish insurance or hide their past from the insurer. Stacy Williams is the Director of Client Relations at MissionSafe and spent years leading mission trips to destinations all over the world. She shared her firsthand experiences of the chaos that ensues when an individual fails to disclose certain health conditions on their enrollment:

  • Risk Not Getting Coverage – By failing to disclose a pre-existing condition, you run the risk of not being able to claim for a situation that is a result of, or could be tied to an undisclosed condition. You also put yourself at risk of not being covered for any possible complications that arise during treatment that are a result of the pre-existing condition.
  • Delays the Team – The team can’t proceed with their scheduled activities because someone is too sick or too unstable to travel. In situations that occur towards the end of a trip, someone will need to stay behind with a sick person while the rest of the team returns to the United States.
  • Pulls Leaders Away from the Team – Typically, a team leader plus an “in country host leader” must go with a sick person for treatment which is sometimes in another city.  Or, they will have to stay at a guesthouse/hotel or hospital with a sick person as they get treatment. All leaders want to be out in the field to experience situations with their trip participants. Leaders need this perspective to help their teams work through what they are seeing because they are often involved in circumstances that are very difficult to process.
  • Difficult Decisions – Team leaders are often required to come up with additional funding to cover medical expenses and must make hard decisions on whether to keep someone back at the hotel/guesthouse. A leader will rarely leave a sick person alone, so that means two people lose a day or days of their trip.
  • Distracts the team – Teams are fatigued after traveling, even to destinations close by like Haiti. Most psychological issues arise early on in a trip and people who are not mentally stable just seem to “freak out”. I don’t know if it’s the exhaustion or their mental instability, but we see it right away most of the time. I’ve had people threaten to kill themselves and demand to be put on the next flight home. Unfortunately, there is only one flight per day to some of the international locations. This is a total distraction for the entire team because they are concerned about the person, the situation, and confused about what to do: that is NOT how you want to start a mission trip. Teams are usually nervous anyway about what is ahead, and most have first time trip participants who are already on edge because of the “unknown” in visiting a foreign land. Having someone on suicide watch means that a fellow team member must stay up all night (sometimes after traveling for 24 hours) to make sure the individual doesn’t really do what they are threatening.
  • Events Happen in Countries 8 Hours Ahead of U.S. EST –  If a team is on the other side of the world, there are time differences to deal with. This causes the U.S. sending organization to work during the night or after hours in addition to working regular day hours.
  • The U.S. Office and Our International Office Must Scramble –  In a serious situation, the Country Directors or Executive Directors will have to get involved.  They must drop what they are doing and many times travel to be in the physical presence of the sick person, in addition to dealing with logistics.
  • Everything Else Stops – Literally. Everything comes to a halt and many people are pulled into the mix. If an organization has a Crisis Management Team (and all should), that team is “activated”, pulling them away from normal tasks to handle the situation (logistics, insurance, family in the U.S., etc.)
  • Unexpected Costs are Incurred – Due to unplanned expenses, (hotel, additional staff to monitor, transportation in country, medical expenses, flight home, etc.) someone must make all the arrangements and money is always involved. Then it comes down to who is going to front the cost and how quickly money can be wired or arrangements made through insurance.
  • U.S. Families are Disrupted – No one wants to receive a call that their loved one is unwell and sustain unexpected expenses when they must fly overseas: we can’t put a sick or distraught person on a plane by themselves, so someone must either cut their trip short to fly home, or a family member must come and retrieve them.
  • People can DIE – Failure to disclose medical conditions means being completely unprepared in the event of an emergency, which can result in catastrophe.

Many of the circumstances discussed are specific to mission trips, but extremely similar rules apply to ANY situation that involves traveling abroad. Knowing what medical information to share is not as straightforward as one might think. A good rule of thumb is to disclose any part of your medical history (or that of your travelling companion) you would be concerned about not being able to claim for. When it comes to your health and well-being, it is imperative to be safe rather than sorry. TravelersAlly can provide worry-free travel medical insurance for the world traveler, no matter what the purpose of the trip is.

Topics: Understanding Travel Medical Insurance, Travel Blogs, international medical insurance, travel abroad, Travel

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Hot Travel Trends for 2018

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2017 is coming to an end, which means its time to start planning adventures for the new year. With numerous go-to Caribbean islands damaged by the season’s hurricanes, travelers are looking for alternatives such as the Spanish island of Tenerife. Experts say that northern destinations such as Alaska, Canada and Iceland are also increasing in popularity. The combination of spectacular landscapes, scenery and overall safety factor make it easy to see why.

According to USA Today, prices are increasing: global airfares are expected to rise 3.5% in 2018 and hotels will increase 3.7%. The inflation rates are slightly higher than the predicted 3%, so it will pay to plan ahead when booking

Airbnb’s most booked global cities:

  1. Tokyo
  2. Paris
  3. Osaka
  4. New York City
  5. London
  6. Rome
  7. Orlando
  8. Miami
  9. Sydney
  10. Lisbon

In the United States, midwestern cities such as Indianapolis, IN and Columbus, OH are seeing some of the strongest growth, motivated by busy downtown districts buzzing with new restaurants, local arts, and nightlife. Other high-growth destinations consist of towns offering abundant nature lodging close to popular national parks.

Destinations in North America, particularly those within driving distance of the Canadian Rockies are attracting a rising number of guests. Edmonton, as well as the mountain towns of Fernie and Kelowna feature an abundance of year-round outdoor activities such as cross- country skiing, fly fishing and wine tasting.

Travelers heading to South America are flocking to the countless seaside communities along Brazil’s extensive coastline.  Destinations such as Matinhos and Guarapari are drawing travelers to miles of beautiful beaches and away from the urban bustle of bigger cities such as Rio and São Paulo.

Trending big cities in Asia such as Guangzhou are consistent with high growth overall in China. Sparkling waterfronts and centuries old architecture complete with cosmopolitan amenities make up the cities of Hanoi and Da Nang in the neighboring country of Vietnam.

The highest surges in Europe are taking place in the Mediterranean, specifically the Cyprian towns of Paphos and Gazimagusa, notorious for gleaming rock beaches and ancient ruins. The seaside resort of Bournemouth along England’s southern coast is also seeing a significant increase in bookings since last year. The combination of dramatic seascapes, warm climate, and energetic nightlife of casinos and clubs make Bournemouth an alluring destination.

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Travelers are more concerned about safety then ever. As stated by Carrie Pasquarello, executive director of Global Secure Resources, “Travelers need to be proactive with risk mitigation strategies to ensure a safe and secure trip”. Consider brushing up on safety knowledge with one of numerous safety courses offered online.

Count on TravelersAlly to provide unparalleled coverage from relaxing on the beaches of Greece to hiking a glacier in Iceland.

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Protecting Local Culture From Tourists

 

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One of the main reasons people travel is to engage in different cultures and experience foreign traditions and pastimes, such experiences are difficult to have when so many travel destinations are overrun with tourists.

It is becoming increasingly harder to find places that have not yet been tainted by tourists because international travel is progressively more accessible. Flight prices are decreasing and prosperity is rising, yet the number of beloved destinations basically remains the same. Another major cause of over tourism is the rapid growth of global middle class.

In many areas, the number of visitors trumps the local population. According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council, the number of tourists has risen from 674 million in 2000 to 1.2 billion in 2016, and is predicted to increase to 1.8 billion by 2026.

Over tourism is becoming such an issue that locals are starting to protest:

  • Amsterdam: mayor has prohibited the opening of any new souvenir stores or fast-food restaurants
  • Barcelona: government ban on new vacation homes and hotels
  • Venice: protestors block cruise ships from entering the lagoon to dock
  • Santorini: limiting number of cruise visitors to 8,000 per day

That only covers a few; attractions such as Mount Everest and Machu Picchu are setting limits on the number of visitors and requiring them to be accompanied by a recognized guide. Proposals are starting to be put into place to limit tourists through a reservation system at Zion National Park. Anti-tourism marches are taking place across Europe.

Putting a cap on tourism is an extreme measure and often seen as an absolute last resort for destinations who don’t see any other choice. Barcelona was put in a virtual state of emergency as it was overrun with 10 million travelers by day and 8 million overnight guests in 2016. The repercussion from over tourism threatens to limit growth along the entire spectrum, from restaurants and hotels to airplane manufacturers. The crowds in popular destinations have become so large that they hinder the way of life for locals and ruin the entire tourism experience.

In an article for The Guardian, Taleb Rifai, secretary general for UNWTO, discussed his take on the rapid rise in tourism: “It should not be given up for the sake of mismanagement. Ensuring that tourism is an enriching experience for visitors and hosts alike demands strong, sustainable tourism policies, practices and the engagement of national as well as local governments and administrations, private sector companies, local communities and tourists themselves”.

While there are countless popular tourist attractions that people rave about, there are just as many hidden gems that are completely under the radar. Some of the world’s most beautiful and interesting places are the ones you don’t always hear about.

Business Insider put together a list of unknown places to visit, and I chose my favorites:

  1. Hinatuan River Island of Mindanao, Phillipines
  2. “Crooked Forest” Western Poland
  3. Jiuzhaigou Valley Sichuan, China
  4. Hot Springs of Rotorua New Zealand
  5. Lofoten Islands Norway
  6. Hitachi Seaside Park Ibaraki, Japan
  7. Pangong Tso Lake India and Tibet
  8. Rangiroa French Polynesia
  9. Namaqualand Namibia and South Africa
  10. Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve Wulingyuan, China
  11. Jericoacoara Beach Brazil
  12. Capuchin Crypt Rome, Italy
  13. “The Door to Hell” Derweze, Turkmenistan
  14. Saint Pierre et Miquelon Canada
  15. Salina Turda Transylvania, Romania

Instead of going to the places friends and family expect you to go, venture out of your comfort zone and into the amazing unknown. After all, isn’t that what travel is all about? Keep your adventures protected with Travelers Ally, and watch us for more hidden gems to explore.

 

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Inbound U.S. Travelers Face Additional Screening to Increase Airline Safety

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U.S. bound travelers should expect a longer check-in process for flights at numerous global airlines as anti-terror measures are increased worldwide. Part of the new screening includes a more detailed approach to the detection of explosives in electronic devices, as well as additional screening questions.

Possible discussions include the purpose of a trip, if a bag has been in the traveler’s possession at all times, if the traveler packed their own bag, and others that have not been disclosed by the government.

For several U.S. airlines, the requirement has minimal impact because such interactions have already been in motion with U.S. bound passengers on many flights. The U.S. Travel Association said that travelers will benefit in knowing that the policy changes are caused by “specific vulnerabilities” in aviation security.
“The world should hear that they are not intended to discourage travel generally, and that legitimate business and leisure travelers are as welcome as ever in the U.S.,” – USTA Executive Vice President Jonathan Grella.

The security of airline passengers and staff is the number one priority, and The White House has insisted that the new controls are designed as anti-terror defenses. U.S. lawmakers from the House Homeland Security Committee have recently visited airports in Europe and the Middle East to inspect security conditions and discuss counter-terror collaboration.

“The timing of this visit to Europe and the Middle East was critical, as terrorists remain intent on taking down aircraft,” said Representative John Katko in an announcement Wednesday. “We must do all that we can to stay ahead of the evolving threat to the global aviation sector.”

Travel medical coverage should be a part of planning your trip. Unexpected health care costs can be an expensive interruption to your visit. Protect yourself and your wallet with Inbound Cover from TravelersAlly website here.

 

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