• Before you leave, take time to learn and research as much about your destination as possible. Are your immunizations up-to-date?
• Undergo an individual risk assessment either at a reputable travel clinic or consultant your family physician, he / she is familiar with your health history.
• Obtain appropriate travel health insurance is highly recommended.
• Do you require special health certificates to be presented at your destination (e.g. AIDS or tuberculosis).
• Do not wait until the last minute to be inculated, in cse you have a negative reaction to the vaccine, as well some vaccinations require a series of shots or taking of medication 6-8 weeks before you leave.
• Is there a concern around food and water precautions, insect bites or contaminated soil at your destination, if so, ensure you bring the appropriate medications, as prescribed by your physician.
• Upon your return, should you become sick or feel unwell, see your doctor immediatlely. Inform the doctor that you have been travelling and any treatment you may have recieved or possible risk exposure you may have experienced during your travels.

• No sharp objects, like scissors, nail file etc., in your carry on bagput in your checked luggage.
• Make sure electronic devices (cell phone, lap top, camera, electric razor) are charged and ready to turn on for inspectionyou are not allowed to take them onboard, unless they work.
• No aerosol cans on flights.
• Pack prescription medicine in its original container, in your carry on luggage.
• Also include, in your carry on, any breakable items, and anything you cant do without, .contact solution, glasses etc.
• For two people traveling togetherpack half of each persons belongings in each suitcase..if one suitcase gets lost, both people will still have some clothes.
• Purchase all film, sundries etc. and take with youalways more expensive and time consuming to buy in the destination
• Carry a medical travel kit with sunscreen, mosquito repellent, Imodium, bandaids etc. that way you have them for emergencies, even in the middle of the night..

• Photo copy your photo ID (drivers license) and/or passport and credit cards, and keep a copy with you and leave one copy with your home contact.easier to replace with a copy in your hand.
• Leave a copy of your itinerary and contact numbers with someone at home.
• Label your luggagehide home address or business titleuse tags that have covered flaps to hide the details.
• Leave room in your carry on bag for any breakable purchases on your returnor pack a larger carry on bag in your checked bag for use on the way home.
• Wear layered clothing, appropriate for your home climate, that can be removed when arriving in a hot climate.
• Drink juice or water during your flight, to keep you hydrated, instead of coffee or alcohol.
• Stretch or walk in the aisle, several times during a long flight, for circulation.
• LASTLY.once you are seated in the boarding loungetake several deep breaths and RELAXyoure on your way!!!

Phyllis Marlowe