For many travelers, going to a country on the other side of the world is the fulfillment of a dream. Crossing a large part of the globe to find oneself in unknown lands remains very exciting. But it also requires preparation and good organization. To make a long trip far from home can indeed hardly be done on a whim. So to be sure to leave in good conditions and to avoid unpleasant surprises, here is a practical guide to scrutinize in the smallest details
Leave with the right papers, and in good standing!
In order to travel to the other side of the world, it is first of all essential to take stock of the papers you need to have with you to cross the borders. You must have a valid passport and, in most countries outside the European Union, a visa. People who do not have a passport or who need to renew their passport can pre-apply online. A visit to the town hall in person is then necessary to finalize the application.
The second point to check is the visa. To find out if the country you wish to visit requires it, all the information is available online, notably on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is also very easy to apply for a visa on the Internet.
For those of you traveling to the other side of the world with children, the latter are also concerned by the passport and visa, regardless of their age. To apply for a passport for a minor, you need to bring your family record book, abirth certificate with a parent's name on it, proof of address, 2 recent passport photos of the child, the parent's ID and a tax stamp
Think about travel insurance
We don't always think about it, but taking out travel insurance is really useful for trips abroad. Especially when you go far away, make stopovers and have planned a multitude of activities once there. Incidents can occur such as the delay or cancellation of a connecting flight, the loss of luggage or the need to consult a doctor or be hospitalized following an illness or injury. Travel insurance is the best way to protect yourself and be compensated in case of problems. Please note that in some distant countries such asAustralia, the United States, Canada, Brazil or Singapore, medical expenses are expensive and can be very costly.
Take stock of necessary vaccinations
Some countries advise or require travelers to have certain vaccinations before entering their country. In any case, it is always wise for all those who travel to the other side of the world to consult their doctor to find out which vaccines need to be renewed or taken.
For example, for those who plan to visit an intertropical endemic area in Africa orSouth America, it is important to know that a yellow fever vaccine is mandatory. They can then take advantage of the opportunity to request an international vaccination booklet, issued in international vaccination centers. This booklet contains the last vaccinations administered. It is very useful for frequent travelers, but is optional.
It is also recommended that you take with you prescriptions and treatment authorizations that will serve as proof in case of customs control. It is also a good idea to carry a medical report translated into English if you have to treat a chronic illness.
Make all reservations as soon as possible
Once you are in good standing with the administrative documents, it is imperative to make reservations to go to the country and have a roof over your head. Going to the other side of the world requires in most cases to take the plane. It is then advisable to surf on flight comparators in order to find the ones with the best prices. It is best to avoid departures and arrivals on weekends. It is better to travel during the week and outside the busy periods.
Whether you wish to stay in a hotel or in a rental house or apartment, it is also best to book as soon as possible, in order to have the choice and to benefit from better rates. When we have the possibility to book the plane tickets and the accommodations 3 or 4 months in advance, we don't hesitate!
We rarely go to the other side of the world to stay there. It is almost certain that we will move to the four corners of the territory to see as much as possible. Another reservation to make in advance is that of a car. Most airports have several agencies.
So, all these precious advices are to be followed to leave serenely. A tourist guide and another of the language spoken on the spot in your pocket and off you go! Enjoy your trip!
