
- Does this place require a visa? Cost of visa? How to apply for a visa? Please keep copies of your visa!
- Does this place require a passport? How much does a passport cost? How do I apply for a passport? Please keep a photo of your passport!
- What currency does this place use? What is the current currency exchange rate? Does my credit card(s) wave international fees?
- What type of electrical outlet does this place use? Can I use my appliances and chargers there?
- Should I purchase travel insurance? Where is or is there an U.S. Embassy? What do I do or who do I call in an emergency? Please keep copies of your travel insurance policy and important emergency information!
- What language do they speak in this country? Please learn a few basic phrases and salutations (hello, goodbye, thank you, please, bathroom, yes, no, good morning/evening etc.) in the local language! Do many people speak English, is English a secondary language of this country, or are the local people willing to speak English/ how widely is English spoken with tourists? Please be polite and respectful to the locals!
- What is the nationality, culture, ethnic diversity, and etiquette of this place? What are the local customs and laws? What are the tipping rules for this place? What is the dominant religion of this place and are there rules around clothing modesty? Please respect the local laws, traditions and customs!
- Should I rent a car? How is the public transportation? Is this place walkable? Will I need an international driver’s license? – Wine Specific: Should I use a rideshare, have a designated driver, or hire a personal driver to avoid drinking and driving?
- Are there any health risks concerning visiting this place: water quality, possible exposure to diseases, possible food poisoning exposure, etc.? Do I need to get any vaccines/immunizations before traveling to this country? Please keep copies of your proof of vaccinations!
- Is this a safe place to travel to, especially for solo travelers, female travelers, disable travelers, and minority travelers? What is the crime rate in this place? Are there any travel advisories or alerts issued by the government or tourism board for this destination? Please be safe and use your discernment!
- What is the cost of traveling to this location: flights, trains, cruises, driving? What is the cost of accommodation in this place? What are the accommodation options: hotel, motel, Airbnb, vacation rentals, hostels, etc.? How much will my daily spending be to visit this place: food, activities and excursions, transportation, etc.? Please keep copies of all travel itineraries!
- Can I use my cell phone there? Should I purchase international service through my cell phone provider or use an international sim card/electronic sim card (esim)?
- What types of food is this place known for? Does this place offer food options for dietary restrictions, especially allergies?
- When is the best time to visit this place? Is this place overcrowded? How long should I visit this place? Please try to be flexible, positive, and open minded!
- What should I pack: clothing, toiletries, skin care, shoes, medications, jewelry, small first aid kit, etc.? What is the weather? Please beware of over packing due to overweight baggage fees and lugging up and down stairs, on public transportation, and on trains!
- What should we see or do when we are visiting this place? What are they best known for? Do I need to make reservations for my activities and excursions? Please research your destination! – Wine Specific: What are the best wineries in the area? Are there any unique wine tasting experiences? Are there any unique wineries or wine makers in the area? Do I want to visit a more popular or up-and-coming wine region? How much are the wine tastings in the area? How many wineries are there in this region? Please use WinedorLust for AVA/Wine Region Research!
- Who should I travel with to this place? Should I travel alone to this place? Please travel wisely, your travel partner(s) can make or break a trip!
- What is my budget for this trip? How do I stay within my budget for this trip? Is it more affordable to travel with a tour group or on my own? Please try to save for a trip and try to stay within your means!
Did I leave any considerations out? Is this a helpful list? Please share your thoughts below!
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