Planning
your trip |
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Pick a location! |
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Scrutinize the web for
information, visit our 'Best
Links for the Independent Traveler' page to help
you get started. |
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Check out available guidebooks
and purchase a few (or see if your local library can
obtain them). Get a foreign language pocket phrase
book or dictionary. |
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Decide if any portion of
your adventure would be enhanced by hiring a guide.
Finding a local operator in a non-english speaking
country might be daunting. Don't be intimidated, anyone
who regularly deals with tourists will speak some English
and many locations have tourist offices that can assist
with locating a licensed guide. Decisons to hire a
private guide or join an existing small group for a
glacier crossing, a difficult via ferrate, or some
other special activity can be made a day or so in advance.
You will be able to assess weather conditions, your
personal fitness, and also take advantage of unique
local opportunities. Prices are surprisingly reasonable
since you are bypassing the 'middlemen' and your guide
will be focused on YOU and YOUR experience. If they
did a good job, don't forget to tip them graciously
when your trip is finished. |
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Check that you and any
other travelers with you have a current passport with at least 6 months validity remaining. |
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Book your
plane ticket. |
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Research local transportation
options and print out schedules (from the airport to...
and back, etc). In most locations there will be train
and/or busses, but even a 100 dollar taxi ride for
2 people is a bargain considering what you might have
paid to a tour company! |
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Create a packing
list (guidebooks will have helpful suggestions) and
lay all the items out, eliminate non-essentials and
consider replacing heavy items. You have always yearned
for that 'super light weight' fleece or backpack?
Now is the time to buy it! |
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Make sure your ATM card
has a 4-digit password and deposit sufficient funds in your checking
account. |
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Make sure your devices have international data plans, download your fave apps and pack your charger. |
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Pack your bags, go and
have fun! |
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