Security
* Lock all windows and doors securely and remove any keys hidden outside the house
* Tell neighbours that you'll be away and how they can reach you in an emergency
* Turn on your telephone answering machine. You may want to change the message on your answering machine at work to
let your business contacts know you are out of town
* Set lights and a radio on timers. Turn up the radio loud enough so it can be heard outside
* Close blinds and curtains
Kitchen
* Store food in your freezer to prevent having to run to the grocery store as soon as you return home
*Remove perishable items from your refrigerator
*Empty all waste baskets & run the garbage disposal to eliminate the possibility of unpleasant odours
*Wash the dishes (You'll be sorry when you come back if you forget this!)
Getting Your Car Ready
* Check your spare tire and jack to ensure they are both in working order
* Check oil level, tire pressure, and coolant level, and all other fluid levels
* Pack a first-aid kit into the trunk
Personal Preparation
* Schedule a medical check-up before the trip. Ask your doctor about necessary vaccinations, and have any medical
procedures done before you go
* Update any personal identification so that it contains current information and a photograph
* Pick up cash, change, and traveller's checks at the bank
* Get a telephone calling card and take it with you
* Fill out and send in your tax return form if you will be out of town at the deadline
*Fill out an absentee voter form if you will be out of town at election time
* Tell your friends where they can write to you at your vacation or out-of-town address
* Pay the rent and other bills. If you’ll be gone for an extended period of time, arrange for a friend or relative to pay the bills
* Wash clothes that you’re not packing so that you’ll have a clean set of clothes at home when you return from your trip
* Break in new shoes to prevent blisters
Sanity Savers
* Make a "fun bag" for each child and include games, books, toys, a tape player with headphones, and snacks
* Print address labels of people to send postcards to. It’s much lighter to carry a sheet of labels than your address book
Your vacation in Britain
* England is effected by 'typical oceaniac island weather' which means ever changing weather patterns. Please prepare for ocasional cold and wet patches. To make the most of your stay in England, Astral Travels reccommend bringing 'all weather' clothing inc. fleece overcoat. waterproof jacket, walking shoes and sun-cream.
Prepare Travel Documents
• Passports should be valid for the duration of the stay abroad, and should have blank pages for stamps.
• In addition to a valid passport, some countries require visitors to have a special visa or vaccinations. Check consulate websites for information about specific entry requirements.
• Countries that grant free tourist visas on arrival may request proof that visitors intend to leave before the visa expires. Some airlines will ask passengers who do not hold a round-trip ticket for evidence of onward travel before permitting them to board the plane. Travelers should ask their airline about its policy.
• Bring printed boarding passes and/or the reservation confirmation code to the airport.
Organize Finances
• Many international airports charge travelers an airport tax that must be paid before departure.
• Get a small amount of foreign currency from the bank before leaving, or plan on changing money upon arrival, before exiting the airport.
• Travelers should notify their credit card company if they plan to use their card abroad (otherwise the account may be blocked due to suspicious activity).
• Make sure that debit cards will be compatible with international ATM machines.
Pack Smart
• Fasten a name tag to all bags, including carry-ons.
• Make it easy to identify the correct suitcase by attaching something colorful, bright, or unique to all checked luggage.
• Respect baggage allowances. Gate agents have no problem charging fees for overweight bags, or asking travelers to remove items.
• Don’t pack prohibited items (including scissors, tweezers, lighters, liquids, etc.). They will be confiscated, and will slow down the check-in process for everyone.
• Cosmetics and toiletries tend to be heavy and take up a lot of space. With the exception of prescription medicines or specialty products, these items can be purchased upon arrival.
• When traveling with a laptop computer, make sure it is accessible so that it can be removed quickly and easily at security checkpoints.
Dress Appropriately
• Wear comfortable shoes that can be taken off easily. International airports are big, and getting to the gate may require a lot of walking. Also, shoes must be removed at security checkpoints. And remember, feet can swell as much as one shoe size during the flight.
• Avoid accessories that may set of security alarms, such as large jewelry and metal belts.
Have Reasonable Expectations
• Best efforts aside, crowded airports, surly airline staff, long lines, lost luggage, and delays are all a common part of international travel. Don't get anxious, frustrated, or upset. Instead, plan on dedicating the entire day to traveling, and try to be patient and cooperative.
Enjoy your trip (hoiday)...........
