Holidaymakers will be stretching their nets wide in this coming year as people seek vacation spots offering better value for money. But will we be biting off more than we can chew? According to the article “Brits risk travel trauma in 2009!” before setting off, we would be well advised to research our destinations to avoid potential pitfalls.
We need to know what is considered acceptable behaviour in an unfamiliar foreign country and most importantly seek out comprehensive travel insurance that will not let you down in the event of something going wrong abroad. If in doubt about your holiday to an unfamiliar country, get in touch with the Foreign Office for information.
Driving in Turkey can be pretty hazardous, make sure your insurance policy and driving credentials are adequate for this location. In Turkey, make sure you always carry some for of photographic ID because if you don’t questions will be asked and you could find your accommodation for the night a lot less uncomfortable than the en-suite double that you’d booked! Similarly, do not deface Turkish money or be rude about the Turkish nation or flag or you could find yourself in deep water! Additionally, check the Turkish dress code to avoid getting dirty looks from the locals, which could put something of a dampener on holiday mood.
Many British holidaymakers will be visiting Dubai for the first time this year, according to Foreign Office and ABTA predictions. Beware you are about to enter very different very strict territory from that which we know in Britain. A good plan would be to pay maximum due care and attention to as much research as you can muster before entering the United Arab Emirates. Beware loving couples your public displays of affection could get you arrested in Dubai. Even kissing in a public place could get you arrested. Alternatively, if you are not married and your pregnant girlfriend is rushed into labour while on holiday in Dubai, you could encounter serious problems with the law, as sex outside of wedlock is illegal. If taking medication for a condition or illness, it could be scrutinized by the authorities and ascertained as illegal. Dubai does not have the same idea concerning what constitutes a controlled drug. Watch out, your medication could lead you into a jail cell for a minimum of four years!
On the subject of appropriate clothing, Egypt is similarly strict about covering up the ladies. Make sure your arms are covered and so too are your legs especially when wandering the souks and especially in the mosques!
Look into the matter of obtaining a Visa when visiting Egypt. In the main part, you will be required to obtain one, although visiting the holiday resort cities of Sharm el-Sheikh, Taba, Dahab and Nuweiba you ought not to require a Visa unless you plan to stay in excess of 14 days.
Driving in Egypt is not for the weak of disposition presenting many hazards and a constant stream of accidents. The roads are shabby on the whole and people tend to be racing about whether they are properly qualified or not! Ensure you wear a seatbelt at all times and if driving, make sure you have suitable insurance and that all paperwork is tip-top to be on the safe side!
Many people will be visiting Cuba for the first time this year. If you are one of the lucky ones, remember Cuba does not accept any American travellers cheques and credit cards such as American Express. Be warned that any electrical item with a high power usage can be taken off you at the airport. Leave travel irons and kettles at home if you don’t want to risk losing them. Additionally, don’t try to take fruit or meat into the country as Cuba prohibits the import of these products.
While in Cuba, you’ll have no use for your American Express cards, Mexico welcomes it with open arms! If travelling to Mexico for the summer holidays this year you will find you can exchange American dollars and cheques more easily than UK pounds sterling. In Mexico, people speak Spanish and outside of the big cities you will need to have a phrase book to hand to get by. Take this opportunity to learn the language!
The import of meat and all dairy product is banned in Mexico, so do not try to bring any into the country. With malaria being rife in Mexico, ensure you have your vaccinations organised well before you set off.
If a holiday in Poland is what you have in store for your family this year, take care that you cross the roads at a crossing or you will be fined. Jay walking here is illegal and drunkenness could buy you a night in a police cell! Another main consideration when visiting Poland is to watch out for theft. The railway stations have high incidences of this crime so take precautions against this particularly if you are on a sleeper train.
When visiting Croatia, ensure you have your passport on you at all times for this is the only form of recognised identity. One last point, if chartering a yacht or sailing a boat, lay of the alcohol as being in charge of a boat under the influence of drink carries a serious penalty. You have been warned holidays abroad are not all fun and flippancy. When you are abroad just do your research and respect the country’s rules and you won’t go far wrong! Happy holidays!