“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.”
– Anonymous
Do I need Travel Insurance?
Why travel insurance? Because unexpected things happen in life. Since a portion of every trip is non refundable, this is designed to protect your investments should something go wrong. Some choices include purchasing travel insurance from the cruise line, land operator or from your travel agent who gets it directly from a travel insurance company.
There are multiple types of policies from medical coverage only, to evacuation coverage, to cancellation and interruption and some combination.
In addition some companies offer a waiver to let you cancel for "non covered" reason. Other waivers include covering "pre existing conditions." If you are not sure what these things mean, then be certain to ask questions. If you understand the policy that you are purchasing, then you will know what is considered a "covered reason" and what is not. Most importantly be sure that that your travel dates reflected on the policy match your actual travel dates, and not simply the cruise or tour dates.
This is for overview purposes only, and not intended as legal advice, be aware that insurance policies do vary, especially with respect to pre existing condition coverage, so be certain to request a copy of your policy.
There are multiple types of policies from medical coverage only, to evacuation coverage, to cancellation and interruption and some combination.
In addition some companies offer a waiver to let you cancel for "non covered" reason. Other waivers include covering "pre existing conditions." If you are not sure what these things mean, then be certain to ask questions. If you understand the policy that you are purchasing, then you will know what is considered a "covered reason" and what is not. Most importantly be sure that that your travel dates reflected on the policy match your actual travel dates, and not simply the cruise or tour dates.
This is for overview purposes only, and not intended as legal advice, be aware that insurance policies do vary, especially with respect to pre existing condition coverage, so be certain to request a copy of your policy.
Do I need a passport for my trip?
Selected itineraries that begin and end at the same port, and originate from the USA, do not require a passport for US citizens. Instead an original state issued birth certificate and a photo id, plus any marriage licenses to show name change.
However should something happen and you need to get off the ship in a non US port, you will have to wait to get a passport in order to return home.
Additionally some cruise lines, such as Oceania, REQUIRE a passport, even if the actual cruise itinerary does not necessitate it. Do not assume, check the cruise lines requirements when you check in online .
Any cruise that begins in one port but ends in another even if it is a US port, if it ports outside the USA, this trip will require a passport. Please check the links below for the exact passport requirements for US citizens.
It is important to remember that many counties require that your passport be good for 6 months beyond your return date, so this is a good rule of thumb. From the US State Department.
"Europe Travel via Canada and UK – Europe’s 26 Schengen countries strictly enforce the six-month validity rule. If you are transiting through Canada or the UK – which do not have that requirement – your passport must be valid at least six months or airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe."
However should something happen and you need to get off the ship in a non US port, you will have to wait to get a passport in order to return home.
Additionally some cruise lines, such as Oceania, REQUIRE a passport, even if the actual cruise itinerary does not necessitate it. Do not assume, check the cruise lines requirements when you check in online .
Any cruise that begins in one port but ends in another even if it is a US port, if it ports outside the USA, this trip will require a passport. Please check the links below for the exact passport requirements for US citizens.
It is important to remember that many counties require that your passport be good for 6 months beyond your return date, so this is a good rule of thumb. From the US State Department.
"Europe Travel via Canada and UK – Europe’s 26 Schengen countries strictly enforce the six-month validity rule. If you are transiting through Canada or the UK – which do not have that requirement – your passport must be valid at least six months or airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe."
Important information for US citizens visiting Canada
Should your trip be visiting Canada, even if you do have a US passport, there are additional requirements that you MUST be aware of. Canada has entry restrictions for anyone that has had a felony or even a misdemeanor conviction. This includes something so simple as a DUI. Canada has full access to US records, so you could be flagged at the border.
From the Carnival Cruise lines website:
"Entry into Canada is solely determined by Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials in accordance with Canadian law.
Anyone with a criminal record may be excluded and denied entry into Canada due to heightened security and enforcement. For this reason, more people with past criminal charges or convictions are refused entry into Canada. Almost all convictions (including DUI, DWI, reckless driving, negligent driving, misdemeanor drug possession, all felonies, shoplifting, theft, etc.) make a person inadmissible to Canada, regardless of how long ago they occurred.
It is recommended that persons who have been charged in the past or who have past convictions obtain the necessary documents before attempting to enter Canada. A waiver of exclusion may be issued but several weeks are required and a processing fee must be paid."
Check out this link to the Canadian government website on the matter.
From the Carnival Cruise lines website:
"Entry into Canada is solely determined by Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials in accordance with Canadian law.
Anyone with a criminal record may be excluded and denied entry into Canada due to heightened security and enforcement. For this reason, more people with past criminal charges or convictions are refused entry into Canada. Almost all convictions (including DUI, DWI, reckless driving, negligent driving, misdemeanor drug possession, all felonies, shoplifting, theft, etc.) make a person inadmissible to Canada, regardless of how long ago they occurred.
It is recommended that persons who have been charged in the past or who have past convictions obtain the necessary documents before attempting to enter Canada. A waiver of exclusion may be issued but several weeks are required and a processing fee must be paid."
Check out this link to the Canadian government website on the matter.
Do I need a VISA?
While there are many countries that US citizens can travel with simply a passport, some countries require more. Before your trip take the time to search the list of your destinations, and be certain that no visa is required.
Here is a link to the state department website, where you can check by country.
Here is a link to the state department website, where you can check by country.
What about health insurance while abroad?
Once your trip is planned, take the time to visit the US State Department website on travel health, or the CDC website for information on individual countries. Some countries do require vaccinations, while others simply suggest they may be helpful.
One important thing to remember is the Medicare does not cover you outside the USA, so be certain that you have some type of plan in place.
One important thing to remember is the Medicare does not cover you outside the USA, so be certain that you have some type of plan in place.
Currency Converter
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Here is a great resource from Expert World Traveler for airline baggage fees
** Please be aware that fees can change at any time
How to Choose Travel power Adapters
When you are preparing to travel internationally, you need to be aware that in most cases you will need an adapter plug.
As a general rule on any device that heats up, you will need a voltage converter or a transformer.
Generally most devices that have a square block plug (such as the iphone) are multiple voltage, so require only the adapter plug.
When in doubt always read the voltages printed on the block plugs.
The world runs on two types of electricity: 110/125V or 220/240V. North American devices run on 110/125V electricity while the majority of the world runs on 220/240V. Converters and transformers change the voltage of electricity to match the voltage of your device.
You can buy an inexpensive multiple plug on Amazon by searching "universal power adapter"
This article from REI gives a good overview on travel plugs, and voltage.
As a general rule on any device that heats up, you will need a voltage converter or a transformer.
Generally most devices that have a square block plug (such as the iphone) are multiple voltage, so require only the adapter plug.
When in doubt always read the voltages printed on the block plugs.
The world runs on two types of electricity: 110/125V or 220/240V. North American devices run on 110/125V electricity while the majority of the world runs on 220/240V. Converters and transformers change the voltage of electricity to match the voltage of your device.
You can buy an inexpensive multiple plug on Amazon by searching "universal power adapter"
This article from REI gives a good overview on travel plugs, and voltage.
Credit & Debit Cards
It is a good idea to notify your credit card company that you will be traveling, and the countries you will be visiting.
Additionally, check your credit cards and see of they charge a "foreign exchange fee." This fee can add up to 3% to the purchase price of your items.
Don't allow the store to convert the price of the transaction to US dollars for you. When this happens they choose the exchange rate, rather than the daily bank rate, and you will be paying more for your purchase
When using a credit card overseas, most countries are now on a "chip & pin" system. Because of this, your credit card will not work in most train stations kiosks, and you will be asked to sign at other locations. Take cash for these transactions.
Debit cards are the best way to get cash in foreign countries without using a money change kiosk. This allows you to take smaller amounts of money out, so you are not traveling with large amounts of cash. I recommend setting up a separate debit card specifically for your trip, so your primary account is protected. Even here, be sure the bank you choose, for your debit card does not change a foreign exchange fee. Most ATM machines also charge you a fee, as do most US banks. Check before you leave to find out your banks policy. One bank that does not currently charge a fee is the Charles Schwab debit card, and they even rebate some foreign bank fees.
Additionally, check your credit cards and see of they charge a "foreign exchange fee." This fee can add up to 3% to the purchase price of your items.
Don't allow the store to convert the price of the transaction to US dollars for you. When this happens they choose the exchange rate, rather than the daily bank rate, and you will be paying more for your purchase
When using a credit card overseas, most countries are now on a "chip & pin" system. Because of this, your credit card will not work in most train stations kiosks, and you will be asked to sign at other locations. Take cash for these transactions.
Debit cards are the best way to get cash in foreign countries without using a money change kiosk. This allows you to take smaller amounts of money out, so you are not traveling with large amounts of cash. I recommend setting up a separate debit card specifically for your trip, so your primary account is protected. Even here, be sure the bank you choose, for your debit card does not change a foreign exchange fee. Most ATM machines also charge you a fee, as do most US banks. Check before you leave to find out your banks policy. One bank that does not currently charge a fee is the Charles Schwab debit card, and they even rebate some foreign bank fees.
Cell Phone Service
If your current phone does work overseas, be sure of your phone companies plan rates before you leave the USA. Additionally if you have data, there is a separate fee for roaming data. If you will not be using data be sure to turn on "airplane mode." Many US companies now have international plans, like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
If you choose not to purchase a plan, if your phone is unlocked you can buy a local SIM card. While you pay more at the airports, you can sometimes get help setting it up. Different countries use different providers, so be sure your sim card works in the countries that you are visiting. You can often find current information by country in the forum on www.flyertalk.com
If you choose not to purchase a plan, if your phone is unlocked you can buy a local SIM card. While you pay more at the airports, you can sometimes get help setting it up. Different countries use different providers, so be sure your sim card works in the countries that you are visiting. You can often find current information by country in the forum on www.flyertalk.com
Global Entry and US ports
Do you have global entry? If you do and are cruising out of a US port, there is good news. Some US ports now support global entry.
However, you MUST have your Global Entry card with you to use this service, as they do not have the fingerprint machines at the ports at this time.
Check out the new App!
However, you MUST have your Global Entry card with you to use this service, as they do not have the fingerprint machines at the ports at this time.
Check out the new App!
Travel Apps
- Tripit, is a great app for keeping all of your vacation information in one place. It offers free and paid versions.
- PackPoint factors in the weather and even ability to do laundry and provides a suggested list of what to pack. The premium version even links to tripit, and can be shared.
- The Priority Pass app locates their lounges worldwide. This is a premium lounge access program that is offered with select premium credit cards, or for purchase. For frequent travelers out of the country it is an excellent way to reduce the hassle of waiting for flights.
- For currency conversion the XE Currency Converter is a great way to keep up with the actual exchange rate.
- For dining reservations, try The Fork in Europe, similar to OpenTable in the US, available in Europe, Australia and Brazil. Some reservations are even offered at a discount.
- Uber is available some places worldwide. It makes transportation easy, so you dont have to deal with the local currency or the language barrier. There are other apps for rides including Lyft as well as others depending on your destination
Whats included on your cruise?
With most large cruise lines, such as Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, and NCL the price of your cruise vacation includes:
Your accommodations
Ocean transportation
Most meals onboard
Some beverages onboard (like water (not bottled), lemonade iced tea, and coffee)
Most entertainment onboard
The following services are typically not included in the cruise price:
Dining in Specialty Restaurants (some exceptions would be offered for suites on select lines, and Blu on Celebrity)
Spa and Salon services
Gambling (Including Bingo)
Art Auction
Purchases made in the gift shops onboard
Shore excursions
Photos
Medical Services
Internet
Transfers
Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Ship to Shore Telephone calls
Gratuities
Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages (including sodas, specialty coffee, bottled water, typically any bottled drinks)
Your accommodations
Ocean transportation
Most meals onboard
Some beverages onboard (like water (not bottled), lemonade iced tea, and coffee)
Most entertainment onboard
The following services are typically not included in the cruise price:
Dining in Specialty Restaurants (some exceptions would be offered for suites on select lines, and Blu on Celebrity)
Spa and Salon services
Gambling (Including Bingo)
Art Auction
Purchases made in the gift shops onboard
Shore excursions
Photos
Medical Services
Internet
Transfers
Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Ship to Shore Telephone calls
Gratuities
Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages (including sodas, specialty coffee, bottled water, typically any bottled drinks)
Whats included on a premium cruise?
With most large cruise lines, such as Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, and NCL the price of your cruise vacation includes:
Your accommodations
Ocean transportation
Most meals onboard
Most beverages onboard (some upmarket lines like Oceania and Viking dont include alcohol, most other upmarket and premium lines do)
Most entertainment onboard
The following services are typically not included in the cruise price:
Dining in Specialty Restaurants (most upmarket and premium cruise lines like Regent, Oceania, AMA, Silversea and Viking include specialty dining)
Spa and Salon services
Gambling (Including Bingo)
Art Auction
Purchases made in the gift shops onboard
Shore excursions (some upmarket and premium lines include them, Viking, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea on select voyages, and most river cruises)
Photos
Medical Services
Internet (most upmarket and premium lines include some internet)
Transfers (some premium and upmarket lines, and river cruise lines include transfers if you get the air with the cruise)
Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services (some lines have free do it yourself laundry, on others some room categories get free laundry)
Ship to Shore Telephone calls
Gratuities (most premium lines do include gratuities, except upmarket Oceania and Viking)
Your accommodations
Ocean transportation
Most meals onboard
Most beverages onboard (some upmarket lines like Oceania and Viking dont include alcohol, most other upmarket and premium lines do)
Most entertainment onboard
The following services are typically not included in the cruise price:
Dining in Specialty Restaurants (most upmarket and premium cruise lines like Regent, Oceania, AMA, Silversea and Viking include specialty dining)
Spa and Salon services
Gambling (Including Bingo)
Art Auction
Purchases made in the gift shops onboard
Shore excursions (some upmarket and premium lines include them, Viking, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea on select voyages, and most river cruises)
Photos
Medical Services
Internet (most upmarket and premium lines include some internet)
Transfers (some premium and upmarket lines, and river cruise lines include transfers if you get the air with the cruise)
Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services (some lines have free do it yourself laundry, on others some room categories get free laundry)
Ship to Shore Telephone calls
Gratuities (most premium lines do include gratuities, except upmarket Oceania and Viking)
The best travel app for folks that dont have global entry? Download the Mobile Passport Control app, offered by US Customs and Border Protection, this app can help speed up your trip through Customs and Immigration.
U.S. Passports & International Travel Information
Passports
- How to Apply for a Passport
- Where to Apply for a Passport
- Lost or Stolen Passports
- Passport Photo Requirements
- Get Your Passport in a Hurry
- Life or Death Emergencies
- Current Processing Times
- Passport Fees
- Application Status
- National Passport Information Center Contact Information
- Schengen Countries Travel
