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Security checks have these metalic arched things called "metal detectors." Apparently they are used to detect metals that are in, on, or about you. I've gone through many of them in the past, however, for some reason I went through one with loose change in my pocket. Big mistake. You should take it out and put it the conveyor belt. You don't want to call attention to yourself, as I did. Nor you want to spend 5 minutes being poked around with a metal detector. And though, you've got nothing to hide, one gets really nervous while being searched. And the sweating makes you look the more guilty, for some reason. Money Always have small denomination bills on you. There are some establishments that don't accept bills with denomination higher than $50.00 USD. Don't carry wads of cash on you. And if you do, place it in the front pocket of your pants; make sure you leave a few small loose bills somewhere for quick access - $20 bills have come in handy when you see the perfect T-Shirt for a souvenir - "Someone who loves me very much, went to Chicago and got me this T-shirt" says I love you better, than, I don't know, jewelery. I don't do traveler's checks, however, they are widely used. I may try them one day. Insurance Always buy travelers insurance. I have never used it, but, it is good to know that you can visit the Dr. for any type of emergency and it will be covered. North American Hospitals are really, really expensive. Also, there is no excuse not to get insurance - The cost is minimal. For a 3 week trip from Canada to the U.S.A. the average cost runs between $50.00 and $80.00. Food There is too much to say here, I mean everyone eats, right? I will only say one thing: while in cheap restaurant, don't order the most expensive dish. Why? Well, many reasons: If the place is cheap and it hasn't been recommended by the locals, chances are, they don't make that plate too often. Hence, the ingredients may not be as fresh as they should be. Also, if the chef doesn't prepare the dish on a regular basis, how good do you think the dish will be? For example, I like meat. So, everywhere I go, I try some type of cooked animal flesh (I know I'm horrible - I also wear leather shoes), and let me tell you, there is good meat and then there is rubber meat. BTW, don't think I'm snubbing cheap restaurants. I've had some of the best meals under $5.00 at local joints. Work equipment Chances are, that if you are traveling for business, you probably have a laptop somewhere. So, make sure you always have enough battery life to turn it on. Sometimes, airport security personnel make you turn your electronics, just to make sure they are in fact, electronics equipment. Always keep the machine handy in case you need it. If you don't have a laptop, buy one and thank me later. Get the lightest and most powerful machine your budget allows. Trust me, you don't want to carry around 10 pounds (Plus other stuff) in an airport for more than 2 seconds. It doesn't matter how big or strong you are, you will feel the weight. Myself, I have a ThinkPad T40p. I like this machine so much, that I've thought of legally adopting it as a dependent (Ok, it's not that bad - But I do like the thing). Luggage and clothes Get a carry on roller luggage. You don't really need that much clothes for a 3 week trip. Plus, as small carry on bag, lets you avoid the luggage claim line ups - I've seen some grumpy people claiming luggage - Avoid the grumpiness. Don't bring to much clothes to the trip. A 15 day trip doesn't require much. For example I travel with 4 pairs of pants + 4 shirts + 2 sweaters (bring under garment). Also, make sure you have color coordinated all your clothes while packing. Darker colors work best. If you need a 3 piece suit and you don't want to carry it around, I'd suggest to wear it on the plane. Note that it is not the most comfortable piece of clothing you own, but, it won't get as wrinkled (Ok, that's debatable). As per shoes, get a good pair of walking shoes and make sure it goes with everything you have. For example, I travel with one pair of boots and rarely need any other shoes. First Class If you can, get a business class or first class ticket. Much more leg room and the flight attendants treat you like a real person. I personally think, first class is way over rated and overpriced. And for short flies, you don't get to enjoy all the amenities: the champagne, the super-dupper peanuts, the Jacuzzi, the masseuse, etc. etc. BTW, I don't do first class all the time. The few times I have flown in first class, I was doing some consulting for United Airlines and they flew me to Chicago first class. In conclusion I've read somewhere that one doesn't finish anything with the words "in conclusion." But, I can't think of a way to finish my traveling tips. So, in conclusion, I hope your voyages take you to warmer places (if winter) and bring you prosperity, regardless of the season. |
usiness travel is different
than leisure travel. Aside from the obvious differences (the working
and leisure part), business travel has most of the expenses covered
by a third party. |
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Jose Sandoval 2005 - jose@josesandoval.com |