Phil Hoffmann Travel recommends the following:

Document Tips  

• Always carry your travel documents (Passport, Health booklet, International Drivers Permit, Traveller’s Cheques, Credit cards etc) in your hand luggage or on you personally - never in your suitcase. Phil Hoffmann Travel recommends neck security pouches that are excellent to protect your valuables.
  
• You will be surprised how many times you will be asked for your passport number and its date and place of issue on an overseas trip. It's wise to keep this information handy on a separate piece of paper.
  
• Carry extra copies of your passport photos for unexpected visas, for identification or for a lost passport! Take a photocopy of the first 4 pages of your passports and visas and place them in your suitcase, wallet and amongst your travel documentation.
  
• Take most of your money in traveller's cheques and record the serial numbers, denominations and date and location of the issuing agency. Remove all unnecessary credit cards from your wallet. Be sure to carry your credit card company's telephone number in case your card is lost or stolen. Always report losses immediately.

 Medical Tips

• Travel with a small "medicine kit" - Band-Aids, aspirin, stomach remedies (we recommend Imodium tablets - you don’t need a prescription, obtain over the counter at Chemist), a sewing kit, spot remover, extra pair of glasses (if you wear them), perhaps even some instant coffee and that Australian favourite - Vegemite. Some people like to carry tea bags. If you are on prescription drugs, take a photocopy of your prescription with you in case of loss and to avoid hassles with customs and immigration and health authorities. Australia prescriptions cannot be filled overseas. Excellent "Traveller’s First-Aid Kits" are available from Traveller’s Medical & Vaccination Service - call 8212 7522 or their Travel Health information line on 1902 261 560.

 Luggage Tips 

• Have a "survival kit" in your carry-on cabin bag in case your luggage is misplaced or lost enroute - a rare occurrence these days but it has been known to happen! (A change of underwear and an extra shirt can come in handy).
  
• Inflatable neck pillows are a marvelous benefit for lengthy journeys. Other "survival" extras you may not have thought of include a travelling alarm clock, a pocket torch, extra batteries, film for your camera (they can be very expensive overseas), an adapter for your appliances, a plastic bag for wet swimsuits, cosmetics or soiled clothes, insect repellant, sunscreen and safety pins.
  
• No matter how warm your destination is supposed to be, pack a lightweight sweater and of course take 2 pairs of comfortable walking shoes, folding umbrella or disposable raincoat. Sandals can double up as slippers.
  
• When packing - use the rule "if in doubt, leave it out". One suitcase should be more than enough for your travel needs. We suggest that your case is firmly strapped and that you have some "unique" form of identification outside - all suitcases can look the same on luggage carousels. Brightly coloured ribbons on handles are an easy solution.
  
• If you plan on posting parcels home (to avoid excess baggage) then lay several sheets of strong brown paper, ball of string, a garbage bag and some sticky tape at the bottom of your suitcase you'll be surprised how difficult it can be sometimes to buy such articles. Bulky shoes and jumpers etc can be sent home surface mail addressed to you personally and marked "Soiled Personal Articles Only". Remember Customs Officers will sight the parcel so don't try and "beat" the system.
  
• Squeeze a small amount from toothpaste or make-up tubes etc and expel a little from spray cans to avoid leakage under pressurisation.
  
• For couples, we suggest you never pack one suitcase for one person and one suitcase for the other person, split belongings between the two cases. If one case goes astray neither person is left without a change of clothes and necessities.

Hotel Tips

There’s nothing worse than driving all day through  traffic only to arrive at the hotel and discover your reservation is expired and there are no more rooms available. The key to never having this happen is knowing how late is too late.

Most hotel chains will hold a normal reservation until 6 p.m. For those arriving later in the night, ask to guarantee the reservation with a credit card number. Even those pulling up after midnight with a guaranteed reservation will find a warm bed waiting. Hotels hold the right to cancel reservations that are not guaranteed. If you are delayed en route, call the hotel and ask to hold your reservation until you arrive.

• If your reservation is lost and was guaranteed, then the burden falls on the hotel to ensure that your new room at the sister location is of equal or greater quality and at no additional cost.

 Tipping & Taxes

• Tipping is a custom that comes hard to Australians but, again, if the locals do it, so should you. Popularity and the standard of service you receive will decline markedly if you are tightfisted. Rules about who to tip and how much varies from country to country. If in doubt, ask the desk at your hotel. Guide books also usually give some idea. The most common amount is between 10 & 15% of the bill. Do not expect change if you hand over a large denomination in cash - they will only thank you for the tip!
  
• Hotels and restaurants in many countries add a service charge to their bills. If this is done (particularly in USA) you still should leave a small change for anyone who performs a service for you usually at your table.
  
• You may be expected to give a number of other tips, to sightseeing guides, doormen, concierge, taxi drivers etc. Knowledge of worth of the local currency should be your guide. Very small tips for very small services, and so on. Wherever you go, don't over tip. E.g. If you're New Caledonia bound, don't tip at all, this is not the custom. In Japan tipping is limited. Your Consultant can provide you with a good guide to tipping.
  
• Some countries rebate taxes (VAT/Sales Tax) on large purchases. Ask the sales assistant at time of purchase if rebates apply in that instance. 

Extra Hints 

• Get reliable neighbours and friends to regularly clear your letterboxes, collect newspapers, cut lawns and turn lights on for additional security. If you are away for lengthy periods, try and get someone to stay in your home. House and pet sitting services are available.
  
• If your home is vacant for a long period, turn gas jets and water taps off and pull all electricity appliance cords from the sockets.
  
• Holidays become more enjoyable when you meet the locals. A smile will win you friends everytime. A few words picked up from a "travellers" phrase book such as "thank you" and "good morning" will be appreciated. Your local library and Video stores are also a good source of Travel Information/Guides.
  
• Even if you've never eaten anything but steak and chips in Australia, do try the local foods - it's one of the most exciting things about travelling.
  
• Don’t be 'the ugly' Australian abroad by ignoring local customs because it’s not what you do at home. If locals think shoulders should be covered in church, cover yours!
  
• In the USA an "Entrée" listed on the menu is actually the main course - don't over order in the USA.
  
• Bar wisdom - never order a second drink until you know what the first one will cost you!
  
• Check the public holiday listing for your intended countries. Attractions or shopping may be affected during holidays. Some attractions such as Disneyland have seasonal opening hours.
  
• Beware when purchasing items from a minibar - it is expensive! In some countries you will be charged for the item, as well as a VAT Tax and a service fee (this happens in Vietnam) cost for your purchase becomes very expensive.

Leave only footprints

Take only photographs, leave only footprints. These two simple phrases sum up the heart of eco-tourism. Do not leave litter of any kind, and do not take any souvenirs from historical sites and natural areas. In some instances, like taking a piece of the Great Barrier Reef, it’s a crime.

The road most travelled
Following the basic rules of ecotourism can be as easy as following a well-marked trail, because on the well-marked trail is where you should be. Always follow designated trails and resist the urge to explore the forest.

Do not disturb animals, plants or their natural habitats, and they will not disturb you in return. 

Education

Educate yourself about the geography, customs and manners of the region you plan to visit. This extends past learning about the best restaurants to dine at or which tourist attraction to pass up.

The influx of foreign values can damage a culture more than a bulldozer in some regards. Get to know the culture before you arrive and know which of your actions or standards may not be accepted smoothly.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Respect the privacy of others and always ask before photographing people. Some Australian aborigines believe that photographs steal their souls. Why you may not believe this to be true, respect their beliefs.  Also be respectful of local people's land by asking permission before entering buildings, shrines or sacred lands. Showing respect will gain you the most treasured of souvenirs—trust.

It's a small world after all

Globetrotting with the world in mind provides a more satisfying way to travel; challenging you to learn about the places and people you visit and help sustain their fragile environments, economies and cultures.

Hints on
Currency - Traveller's Cheques and Credit Cards

• Which currency to take where?

                Rule 1: Take the currency of the country you are visiting.

                Rule 2: For simplicity, avoid taking more than two currencies.

• By taking local currency issued by a high profile institution such as American Express, you are reducing the risk of having currency conversion problems. You can then use your traveller's cheques directly for making purchases at shops, hotels, petrol stations, restaurants etc.
  
• The best way to travel is by utilising all three modes of currency - cash/travel cheques/credit cards. Should anything happen to your credit card e.g. lost or damaged or "eaten" by ATM's you can use travellers cheques or cash until a replacement card arrives.
  
• Regardless of the country you plan to visit, get the A$/local currency rates for each destination before you leave home. (Remember that these change daily). Carry a small pocket calculator at all times and convert the local price to Australian Dollars before making a purchase - only then will you know whether you are getting a fair deal. To calculate rates you need to do the following: AUD divide oveseas rate or overseas rate multiply AUD rate.
  
• Be wary when changing money at train stations or airport moneychangers' etc. even though it may seem a good rate, often a fine print clause on the board will inform you that they take up to a cool 7% commission
  
• You will need additional funds for optional excursions, meals not included, beverages, tips, shopping and incidental expenses. We suggest that you take more money than you think you need. It is time consuming and rather difficult to obtain additional money from home when you're on the move. It is better to cash unused Traveller's Cheques at the end of your holiday. Credit cards are also handy for unexpected expenses - even doctor's bills!
  
• Remember - you will need your Passport as identification to cash Travellers Cheques, obviously the signature on both must agree! We recommend a good balance use of Travellers Cheques and credit cards, don't rely too heavily on only one source of money. 

Traveller's Cheques

• When charging local currency cheques - use the most convenient location….your hotel or bank/money exchanger. Beware hotels may not give you the best rate but is a convenient means at the time.
  
• When you do not have the local currency, cash your cheques where they offer the best rate and least charges - usually the bank - ask up front if they apply any fees. If you purchase American Express Travellers Cheques no fee will be charged to convert into local currency at any Amex office. Or in the UK either the Bank of Scotland or Lloyds Bank will also not charge a fee.
  
• Unused Travellers Cheques are valid forever. They can be cashed on return or held for your next holiday.
  
• Separate Travellers Cheques into two or more separate wallets if you have a large quantity. Always keep your Purchases Agreement separate from cheques. Only carry sufficient value to cover your daily needs - store extra cheques in Hotel safety deposit box or safe. Only countersign cheques at the time of encashment in front of the person accepting the cheques.
  
• Leave a copy of your signature and travellers cheque numbers with a family member at home.
  
• Get some travellers cheques in small denominations if you are moving from country to country - you then don't have to exchange large quantities you will not need. Husband and wife should get individual travellers cheques! Apart from giving some independence it also gives added security and access to cash if one set is lost or stolen, or if an unexpected accident happens.
  
• In the event of lost Travellers Cheques
  
• Report the loss immediately to the local police.
  
• Report the loss to the Bank displaying your Travellers Cheque logo.
  
• You will need - identification e.g. passport, copy of your travellers cheque numbers, copy of the police report.
  
• Lost or stolen Amex Travellers Cheques are replaced within 24 hours.

Credit Card

• When shopping we find that credit cards are the most convenient way of payment. Shopkeepers in competitive cut-price stores and markets will, however, often demand cash or travellers cheques to give the best deals. They often load credit cards by about 3 to 6% because of the commission they have to pay. They are not supposed to do this, but when you shop in places such as Asia and bargain for the best prices, you will invariably run across this experience.
  
• Ask for the carbon copies of all credit card charges (if it is a carbon transaction) or ask for them to be destroyed in front of you to avoid fraud.
  
• Carefully check your credit card slips before signing to make sure that no extra digits have been added, additions are right, and that the currency of the charges is clearly established on the dockets. Keep your charge slips, take them home and check them against your credit card statements as these come in.
  
• Have someone at home paying the minimum amounts on your monthly credit card statements if you are to be overseas for a long time - otherwise you may find your credit cards suddenly "frozen". 
  
• The American Express Card is accepted all over the world. If you take your own credit card remember your PIN number for ATM transactions overseas. (Bankcard is used in Australia and New Zealand only). Most Credit Cards use a four-digit pin number. Should your bank require a six-digit pin number - use only the first four digits. Remember on the third try the ATM will absorb your card. In the States, by law the bank destroys the card within three days. A replacement card will need to be obtained.
  
• Withdrawals from ATM's are convenient but beware of bank charges - these can range from $4-10 per transaction!

Cash

• Take a small amount of foreign cash to meet your immediate needs on arrival. We suggest approximately A$200 equivalent. Foreign Currency can be obtained from American Express Foreign Exchange or via your consultant.
  
• Study the coins and notes as you get to a country. Size and value may not be related and notes can be easily confused in some currencies. (Especially in the United States Dollars - even the $1 and $100 notes look the same due to the same size and colour of each note).

Health & Safety: Some hints which will make your flight and holiday more enjoyable

• The healthier your body is, the easier it will be for you to adapt to the effects of jet lag. If you plan a few days ahead, however, even the most out-of-shape may be able to head off the misery of jet lag. Several days before you leave, try going to bed a little earlier or a little later (if you are flying east or west, respectively), and start a stretching regiment. Hydrate yourself and eat lightly the day you travel. The headache, light-headedness and nausea associated with jet lag should lessen significantly when such measures are taken.

Common Travel Ailments:

• Motion sickness is an unpleasant problem for many travellers; however, there are some over-the-counter and prescription medications available. If you wish to combat motion sickness on your own, try the following:
  
• When travelling by car, try to sit in the front seat and, if you can, avoid reading as it only heightens the feeling of motion sickness.
  
• When travelling by boat, sit as close to the middle of the vessel as possible and look straight ahead at the horizon, a fixed point that will not move. Today’s high-tech cruise ships are built for comfort, with stabilizers for smooth sailing, and most passengers experience little or no motion sickness.
  
• When flying, try to sit near the wing of the plane, or the side where you are accustomed to driving. Ear plugs also may help.
  
• Heatstroke and Hypothermia, to avoid heatstroke, stay out of the sun for prolonged periods of time. By the same token, try to avoid unusually cold water to prevent hypothermia.
  
• Dehydration, it's very easy to get caught up in the excitement of a vacation and get dehydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and don't wait until you feel thirsty. Avoid caffeinated drinks, which can dehydrate you even more.
  
• Allergies, people who suffer from allergies should take the same precautions on vacation as they do at home. Bring any medications used on a regular basis. It’s also a good idea to bring an antihistamine in case of accidental exposure to a substance that triggers an allergic reaction.
  
• Arthritis, the inflammation of the joints that occurs with arthritis may be especially troubling during long trips that restrict movement. Taking frequent breaks to walk around and relieve stiff joints and muscles can make car, plane and cruise trips more enjoyable. Remember to pack aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or any prescription medications you normally use for arthritis.
  
• Diarrhea, there’s nothing more miserable than getting sick while on holiday. For most destinations, the major health risk to travelers is diarrhea, which may be easily avoided. In general, common sense prevails. When in doubt, steer clear of uncooked meat, raw fruits and vegetables and unpasteurized milk products, and drink only bottled water (although the tip of the bottle may be contaminated, so wipe it clean before drinking from it) or water that has been boiled for at least 20 minutes. If you begin to feel sick or develop a fever, rest and drink tea or purified water. Most cases of traveller’s diarrhea clear up within a few days.

First Aid Kit

It’s a good idea to keep a first-aid kit handy for any emergencies that may arise during your trip.  It should include:

• Recommend bottled water for consumption. Some hotels will have complimentary bottles in the room free of charge. If you take anything from the mini-bar - remember you will be charged! 
  
• Although Phil Hoffmann Travel is not aware of any conclusive evidence linking long haul flights to deep vein thrombosis (know also as economy class syndrome or DVT), for extra precaution we recommend when flying (regardless of class of travel), clothing should be loose, casual and lightweight. Tight jeans are as uncomfortable as a tight necktie on a flight.
  
• Exercise is also important, walk around the cabin a bit, use mouthwash regularly, do a few knee bends, wiggle your head, stretch your jaw, wiggle your toes and anything to keep your muscles from tensing and your blood on the march. Whilst sitting, draw circles with your toes to avoid fluid-retention, do not remove your shoes!
  
• The real enemy of contentment on a long flight is boredom. Over eating and drinking is the temptation caused by this and one of the major causes of discomfort. On long flights, try and skip some meals, usually the first meal is good but all airlines serve something on every leg, sometimes twice and it can get too much. Who would expect to be comfortable after 7 meals in 24 hours! Drink lots of water and limit alcohol.
  
• Eating local foods is one of the joys of travel, not to be missed but some caution is necessary. In destinations with "suspect" drinking water - avoid chewing the ice in drinks which can be made of "tap" water. Lettuce or other salads can be washed in local water and could cause stomach pains. Only eat fruit if you peel it yourself. Imodium tablets may need to be added to your medical kit to avoid the discomfort of a uncomfortable stomach. One of the best tips is to wash your hands frequently or carry packaged towelletes - handling money and handrails can be a major cause of "bugs". A little common sense and care will ensure a problem free journey.

Vaccination Certificate

• Certain countries may require an "International Certificate of Vaccinations" against cholera, yellow fever and other infectious diseases before you are allowed to enter. Specific information on entry requirements can be obtained from your travel agent, physician or the embassy of the country you will be visiting.
  
• As an added precaution, make sure that your measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria and tetanus shots are up to date.

Travelling with Children

• Family holidays can create long-lasting memories and fun learning experiences for parents and children alike. But travelling with children can sometimes be a test of preparedness -- and of patience. We have created a list of suggestions to help make the sometimes daunting task of preparing for a trip with the kids manageable and fun for the entire family.

Before Leaving

• Create anticipation for the family trip by starting a countdown calendar with perhaps a photo or illustration of the destination. Let kids pack their own bags. Decide what type of clothing (preferably loose and comfortable), but allow them to choose their favorites and to pack a special toy. In a carry-on bag, pack some hard candies and gum, hand wipes, tissues, books, paper, markers in a small, tightly sealed plastic bag and perhaps a surprise toy for each child.
  
• Update immunisations for the entire family. If travelling overseas, check on any vaccinations that maybe required.

At the Airport

• Allow plenty of time for check-in and also between connecting flights. Arriving early to board together prevents last minute delays and confusion, especially with the new security regulations. Be sure to have a safety plan in case anyone gets separated at the airport. Discuss where to meet and what to do.
  
• Review screening procedures with children before entering security checkpoints so they will not be frightened by the process. Every person, including children and babies, must undergo screening at security checkpoints. Also, all child-related equipment must go through the X-ray machine. To speed the process along, remove children from their strollers/infant carriers and collapse/fold the equipment so it may be examined or put through the machine. When going through metal detectors, with an infant, have one parent hold the baby and walk through the machine. Do not hand off the baby under the detector, or hand the baby to the screener to hold. Children who can walk should go through the metal detector independently. For older children, it is important to stress that the process should be taken seriously and that threats made even as a joke could result in law enforcement being summoned.

On the Flight

• Getting your seat assignment in advance can help ensure families are seated together and that children and adults will be seated next to each other. If a flight is full and obtaining seat assignments in advance is not a possibility, advise the airline personnel at the airport. The airline may need to ask other passengers to change seats so children are not seated apart from parents.
  
• Bring bottled water to drink and lotion to apply to skin to rehydrate during the dry flight; gum, pacifiers and bottles to reduce air pressure on the children's ears; and a variety of toys in carry-on bags to keep the child's interest from waning.

Travelling By Car

• Plan ahead with the rental company to make sure they offer car seats and installation. If not, you'll have to bring your own in addition to a collapsible stroller. If nothing else, a simple call to the rental car company may save you the hassle of bringing along one extra piece of equipment.

Once There

• Have a daily schedule planned with some flexible, free time for each family member. Provide friends or relatives with phone numbers and addresses of hotels where the family will stay, transportation information and emergency contact information. If possible, each member of the family should have a cell phone or walkie-talkie to keep in touch at all times. Coming up with an emergency plan or meeting point is also a good idea in case family members become separated.

At the Hotel

• Put safety first by avoiding a myriad of possible accidents. Bring outlet protectors and make a sweep of balconies and bathrooms for any potential dangers. Hide away small objects, accessible medications and cleaners children could get their hands on. Familiarize yourself with the hotel’s fire and emergency evacuation routes and procedures. 

Some Extra Precautions

• If your vacation includes a trip to a pool, ocean, water park or any other place involving water, the number one rule is to never let children venture off alone. Even if they know how to swim, children should wear a life jacket at all times. Also, it is important to know what is in the water, such as chemicals or jellyfish. Very cold temperatures, currents, and sudden drop-offs are all things to avoid, especially with children.
  
• Always bring a hat with a wide brim and sunscreen of at least 30 SPF to shield children’s skin from the sun's harmful rays. Sun poisoning can ruin any vacation.
  
• It is important to bring along needed medications. Diarrhea treatments (although these should not be given to very young children), pain relievers, insect repellants, antihistamines and adhesive bandages are good staples. Consult your doctor about “over the counter” remedies before using them. Bringing a doctor's number, even if travelling to a foreign country, is a good idea, as well.
  
• To prevent diseases spread by drinking contaminated water, use only bottled or boiled water to mix formula and juices, or simply go with pre-mixed liquid formula whenever possible, if an infant is not being nursed.

MOST IMPORTANTLY...Maintain a good sense of humor while travelling to give your children a vacation to remember in spite of any unforeseen obstacles. Remember that problems do arise and accidents do happen, but being prepared may help avoid hassles and undue stress.