Archive for Travel Tips
Tired of High International Flight Costs? 15 Dec 2018
Did you know that Gateway Destinations works with several air wholesalers that can often save you money for Premium Economy, Business or First Class flights? They are also masters at finding schedules that most consumers may never see. Call us to compare for your next international journey.
Lost Luggage – What is the Best Action to Take? 15 Nov 2018
Having your luggage lost by the airline is a rough start to your trip. Knowing what to do in this case and taking some simple precautions will help minimize the inconvenience. First of all, make sure your checked bags are tagged with your contact information and always make sure your claim ticket reads your final destination – know what city you are supposed to retrieve it! If your luggage doesn’t arrive where it should, immediately contact the airline at the airport and file a claim. Also, call your travel insurance provider as they can assist in tracking the bag for you.
What is the Best Way to Purchase Foreign Currency? 15 Oct 2018
The least expensive exchange rate is typically getting cash from an ATM machine in the country you are visiting. See what logo is on your debit card and look for the same logo on the ATM machine. Most large international airports will have ATM machines. Know what your daily withdrawal limit is and ask your bank to increase it before leaving home during your travel if you think you will need to take out larger amounts during your travels. In addition, many US banks require that you let them know where and when you are traveling abroad or they may deny a transaction suspecting fraud (also true for credit cards).
If you want to have some foreign currency on hand for emergencies or a taxi upon arrival, then buy a limited amount from your bank or credit union. Avoid foreign exchange stores in airports as they have expensive conversion rates and fees. Also, stores that say they accept US dollars often do not have a competitive exchange rate – you are better off paying cash in local currency.
Protect Your Cellphone & Data While Traveling 15 Sep 2018
- iPhones have a Find My iPhone setting so make sure it is activated (go to Settings and also turn on Send Last Location). Androids have a Find My Device feature (go to Settings under Security & Location).
- Consider purchasing insurance from your wireless carrier in case it is lost, stolen or damaged.
- Save and display your contact information (first name, email address & alternate phone number) on your screen’s “wallpaper” so someone knows how to contact you if they find your phone. For an iPhone, simply type your information in Notes, take a screenshot of it, then save it as your Wallpaper background.
- Remember to contact your wireless carrier immediately if your phone is stolen.
- If you don’t think you will retrieve your phone, you can even erase the data remotely.
Refunds for Shopping in Europe 15 Aug 2018
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If you plan to do some hefty shopping while traveling abroad, don’t forget that you can request a refund of Value Added Tax (commonly called VAT) that you have paid during your trip. Keep all of your receipts. Make sure the merchant fills out the necessary documents before you leave the store. Have a copy of your passport saved on your Smartphone that you can readily access when completing the reimbursement form. Some larger stores have a desk you can go to for their purchases; otherwise, look for the VAT refund center at the airport when you are headed home. Allow enough time for this process, as it could be busy!
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