re: Common mistakes when traveling internationally?

-Don't ever use your debit card for purchases when the card will leave your sight (don't give it to a bartender to hold for a tab, don't let a waiter take it anywhere, etc). For the most part, you're just better off using a credit card.

-Register with the US Embassy(s) in the countries they plan to visit. This makes it possible for the US Embassy or Consulate to contact a traveler if necessary, whether because of a family emergency in the United States or because of a crisis in the country where the traveler is visiting.

Embassy Registration allows the U.S. government official to:

-Notify you in case of any life threatening situation in the foreign country or evacuation of U.S. citizens.
-Contact your family in the U.S. in case of emergency.
-Contact you if there is an emergency at home or inform the authorized person from your registration how to contact you.
-Expedite the application of renewing or replacing your U.S. passport, if your passport is stolen or lost.



-Learn how to read a menu...basically know what words like chicken, pork, fish, dog, cat, snake, cow, etc.

-Look online and find places that have wi-fi available and how much it costs

-make multiple copies of your passport and keep them in different places (luggage, room, etc)

-Be very aware of pickpockets

-Most importantly remember you are there to engulf yourself in their culture, not bring yours over there. Not saying you would do this, but too many people go places, wear there white sneakers, backpacks and levis looking for "american food" and yelling everywhere they go. Do things you like, go places that interest you but try to "blend in", You won't, everyone will know you don't fit it, but your efforts will be appreciated. You will butcher their language, but they appreciate the fact that you try.