When does it rain in Acapulco? (June). How many cigars are duty-free in Algeria? (50). What should you do if sickness strikes in Nepal? (Leave).
If these and other worries keep you awake before venturing abroad, there are several publications designed to take the anxiety out of travel-especially for seniors.
”Get Up and Go: A Guide for the Mature Traveler,” by Gene & Adele Malott (Gateway Books, San Francisco, $10.95) addresses many perplexing questions including, who, exactly, is a senior, and what senior discounts are available.
”Going Abroad: 101 Tips for Mature Travelers” is a brochure published by Grand Circle Travel, a Boston-based direct marketer of international travel for people over 50. It offers easy-to-read practical information and is available free by calling 800-221-2610.
”The Traveler`s Handbook” (The Globe Pequot Press, Chester, Conn., $15.95) answers questions you didn`t even think to ask.
These experts agree that a good trip starts before departure with thoughtful planning and ends with a successful re-entry.
Here are some suggestions to keep in mind before leaving:
– Do your homework. Use the ”armchair” phase of your trip to gather information. There are magazines, brochures, offices of tourism and toll-free numbers available.
– Get your documents together. Nothing assures that good night`s sleep like knowing your passport, visas and traveler`s checks are set. But have you thought of trip insurance? How about prescription duplicates or other medical papers? These should contain such vital information as Social Security number, blood type, drug allergies and a brief medical history.
– Pack carefully. Nothing is more frustrating than having too much with you-or too little. For clothes, try organizing around a central color and plan for ”layering” to accommodate changes in weather. Keep all prescription drugs in hand luggage and take double supplies.
Here are a few tips for the journey:
– Transportation. If you travel by plane, you may order special meals in advance. For long flights, take a sweater in your flight bag, something to put your feet up on and a small bottle or tube of moisturizer to combat dry air. If you drive, arrange for an international driver`s license and road maps in advance.
– Shopping. This is one of the favorite pastimes of all travelers, so pack a soft extra bag to bring back your finds. A pocket calculator is useful for figuring exchange rates. Know your duty charges and that the $400 per person duty-free allowance applies only to items you carry.
– Health care. In addition to routine necessities, such as taking care of shots and medication and being careful about food and drink, there are options for people with special problems.
If you have a disability, contact specialists at: Travel Information Service, Moss Rehabilitation Hospital, 12th Street and Tabor Road,
Philadelphia, Pa. 19141. Phone: 215-456-9600. For general health information, contact the non-profit International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, 417 Center St., Lewiston, N.Y. 14092;: 716-754-4883.
– Preparation for the worst. If, despite the best-laid plans, something goes awry, there is help. One good choice is the closest of our 250 consular offices abroad. A consular officer can`t pay medical or legal fees or put up bail, but may help in a variety of emergencies from lost money to getting medical assistance.
You can also contact the Citizen`s Emergency Center in the State Department in Washington, D.C., which can serve as a hot line between you and friends or relatives while you`re abroad. For emergencies, call 202-647-5226 and ask for the Overseas Citizen`s Services duty officer.
