"A journey is a person in itself--no two are alike."
John Steinbeck, Travels with Charley

The following tips have been acquired and used during a lifetime of travel. Tips have been gathered from personal experiences, professional travel publications, friends who share, and fellow nomads.

The best source for up-to-date and accurate travel information is always a professional in the travel industry. If you have a favorite tip for traveling that's not found here, we'd enjoy hearing from you about it. Just post it to the comment blogs below and share it with all FabulousTravel.com readers.

Here's my disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in 101 Travel Tips & Other Amazing Things. The author accepts no liability for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by any traveler as a result of information or advice contained in this guide. With that, it's time to plan a journey, apply some of the suggestions that follow, and begin gathering the joy and happiness that travel brings to one's life.

1. Before traveling, it's a good idea to obtain plenty of post cards and get into the habit of writing for information from places that interest you. Most countries, states, cities, and individual attractions will gladly send you free and/or inexpensive information. Many cities have visitor and convention bureaus as well as chambers of commerce. Your local library can provide you with addresses for chambers, bureaus and visitor centers. Drop them a line and request information.

2. If you plan to take your pet with you on a trip, write to Pets are Wonderful Council, 500 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 200, Chicago IL 60611. They'll send important information for both you and your pet. No matter your mode of transportation, be it car, train, bicycle, plane, recreation vehicle, or on foot, special plans need to be made if you're taking an animal along on your trip.

3. You may obtain a wonderful library of catalogues of travel items by writing: (1) Recreational Equipment, Inc., 1525 11th Ave., Seattle WA 98188; (2) Eddie Bauer, Box 3700, Seattle, WA 98124; (3) L.L. Bean, Inc., Freeport ME 04033; (4) Eastern Mountain Sports, Inc., 2 Vose Farm Rd., Peterborough NH 03458; (5) The Yak Works, 2030 Westlake Ave., Seattle WA 98121; (6) Hobbar Mountaineering, Box 2399, Station A, Berkeley CA 94710; and (7) Travel Accessories & Things, P.O. Box 1178, Agoura Hills CA 91301.

4. A traveler's worst enemy can be a new pair of shoes. Break in any shoes you plan to wear on your trip. You'll be glad you did.

5. Before leaving on a trip, contact your local library to locate books, pamphlets, maps and magazines about travel destinations and related subjects. Before going, check with your local video store. Many of them rent travel videos that provide a great preview to your journey.

6. Begin developing a personal travel file by collecting information about nearby visitor attractions as well as faraway destinations.

7. Extreme care must be taken with your passport. Don't pack it in your luggage. It's valuable and if lost or stolen immediately notify local police and the nearest American Embassy or Consulate. It is also a good idea to keep a photo-copy of your passport in a different place than where you keep your passport. That way, if it is ever lost or stolen while overseas, you have proof of your citizenship.

8. If you travel by bicycle, there are several sources for travel and touring information. In addition to your local bicycle retailer, three sources to begin with are (1) Backroads Bicycle touring, 1516 5th St., Berkeley CA 94710-740, (2) Bikecentennial, P.O. Box 8303, Missoula Mtablespoons 59807, and (3) Vermont Bicycle Touring, Box 711, Bristol Vtablespoons 05443. For the walker, Country Walking Holidays provides a brochure of walks in the beautiful British countryside. Their address is 707 Johnson Ave., Blaine WA 98230.

9. Traveling into Canada can be quite easy for U.S. citizens. However, special requirements need to be considered and planned. Contact each Canadian province for their requirements and information.

10. It's wise to have receipts for cameras, radios, camcorders, lap-top computers, etc., with you when clearing American customs even if the items were purchased before traveling. Otherwise customs officers might try to charge you duty on these items when you return state side.

11. Your American driver license is valid in most of Europe. However, some countries still require an international license or permit. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles for additional information.

12. Curious about foreign currency exchange and related subjects? You can find out current exchange rates from the worldwide Web, your own bank, and by contacting private currency exchange businesses. The following web site is invaluable for currency exchange information: www.oanda.com/.

13. Whether on a tour or traveling alone, it doesn't hurt to carry around a snack pack including boxes of raisins, bags of peanuts, plastic packages of spreadable cheese and crackers, foil envelopes of tea and coffee, and fresh fruit. Instant breakfast drinks help when you need a snack or quick pick-me-up.

14. Do you know the difference between non-stop and direct flights? Non-stops don't stop. Direct flights may stop several times but the passengers don't change planes. Check with your travel agent or airlines if you have any doubt.

15. PLAN AHEAD. The more that you know about the places you will be visiting the more successful your visit will be. But don't forget to be spontaneous as well.

16. Carry your money in travelers checks available through most local banks. Keep denominations to low figures. Remember to keep a list of the numbers of the checks somewhere separate from the checks themselves in case they are lost or stolen.

17. Visit your doctor before your trip and find out what basic and special medicines to take along.

18. Take an extra pair of glasses if you wear them. You might want to take a prescription for your glasses just in case.

19. One of the most common mistakes made by travelers is packing too much of everything. (See #26).

20. A small, lightweight travel alarm comes in handy and is easily carried. They're available from specialty travel stores as well as discount stores. Frequently travel alarms are sales items, so wait to make your purchase, if you can.  As most cell hpones have alarm clocks built in, you may or may not need this.

21. As you pack, if you make a list of what you're taking with you it becomes a checklist throughout the trip. Having a checklist helps avoid leaving something along the way.

22. It's helpful to take along several plastic bags to hold such things as soiled laundry, damp items and muddy shoes. Small bags are excellent for storing toilet articles, stationery items, and medicine.

23. Your on-board luggage should be packed with any valuables and items necessary to keep you happy (and healthy) in case your checked luggage gets misplaced.

24. Many travelers keep a small spiral notebook handy for making notes, recording impressions, and preparing suggestions for friends who might visit the same place in the future. It's a good way to record travel tips and suggestions to share with others, too.

25. Try getting to the airport at least two hours before your flight time on domestic flights and even earlier on international flights. Take along a book to read or something fun to do (like watching the passing parade of interesting travelers). The time passes quickly and you'll depart in a more relaxed frame of mind.

26. After packing your luggage, carry it around a block or two and see how it feels. You may want to reevaluate the amount you're taking with you. (See tip #19.)

27. Suggestions for enduring long flights include: get a good night's sleep the night before, wear non-confining, wrinkle resistant clothes, and shoes that are fully broken in. It's therapeutic to make several trips to the washroom to wash your face and brush your teeth. Taking a walk up and down the aisles of an airplane is a real life saver and keeps the circulation going.

28. If you're taking a package tour be sure to check the cancellation and refund policy. You need to know what happens (and how much money you're apt to forfeit) should you change your mind about taking the trip.

29. Luggage look a bit shabby? Clean the exterior of leather luggage with a good liquid saddle soap and conditioner; canvas luggage takes a small amount of detergent, 1 cup of water, and a scrub brush (don't get the canvas too wet!); nylon and vinyl luggage takes mild detergent and a small amount of water.

30. Several sources for health information prove beneficial if you have any health questions before your trip. You might contact International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, 417 Center St., Lewiston NY 14092 or International Health Care Service (Cornell Medical Center), 440 E. 69th St., NY 10021 or U.S. Public Health Service by checking your telephone directory for your regional USPHS office. NOTE: The International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers is a non-profit organization dedicated to the gathering and dissemination of health information world wide for the benefit of travelers and to assist them to find qualified medical care overseas.

31. When figuring your travel budget take into account transportation, lodging and meals first. Then figure in expenses such as shopping, entertainment, tips, laundry, and foreign exchange fees. Usually it's the spur of the moment expenses that wreak havoc with travel budgets.

32. Clothes a bit wrinkled? If you travel with a small spray bottle, fill it with water, lightly spray the clothing, and let hang for awhile. This usually helps the wrinkles fall out.

33. Remember that alcohol can be dehydrating and may increase jet lag on a long flight. Drinking water helps prevent dehydration.

34. Insure valuables before you leave home if you must take them with you. The best tip is to take along only what you are willing to lose. It's better to leave valuables at home.

35. Don't exchange a traveler's check for more cash than you'll need for a short time. You'll lose less in case of theft or loss. You also won't get stuck with extra cash when you enter another country.

36. Make at least two copies of all important documents (including your credit cards and passport). Keep one with you and deposit the other in a safe place or leave with a friend or family member.

37. If you're planning a trip that requires a passport, check its expiration date. Be sure the passport is valid for the entire length of the trip.

38. It's wise to take a collapsible type umbrella with you on travel trips. Weather is unpredictable and can ruin a travel experience if you let it.

39. When packing, put small items such as spare glasses, inside your shoes. Shoes are usually rigid and can protect items that might otherwise be broken.

40. Most hotels post a departure time when guests must vacate their rooms. Late checkouts are often permitted if approved by the hotel management in advance. It's a good idea when you plan to check into a hotel to request approval for late arrival as a precaution.

41. Normally you pay a service fee to purchase travelers' checks. However, some automobile clubs and banks offer them free to members and preferred customers. It is worthwhile checking before obtaining your checks.

42. It's wise to toss into your luggage helpful small items that might save the day, such as rubber bands, a small tube of instant glue, bandages, paper clips, and a small amount of masking tape. These items take limited space and can come in handy in solving minor emergencies.

43. It's a common misconception that a travel consultant will cost more. Some times the opposite is true. Travel consultants are able to provide you with considerable information regarding reduced and special rates.

44. When packing put all liquids in plastic bottles or containers. It's always wise to place the bottle into a well sealed plastic bag as well. Don't depend on protecting breakable items with clothing.

45. Avoid most duty-free shops in airports and train stations. Prices are often higher in these places than in quality department stores.

46. One easy way to find out about the ins and outs of public transportation is to ask the staff in large hotels for instructions and help. They enjoy being of assistance to the traveler.

47. A picnic's one of the best ways to keep food costs down. Besides, picnics can often provide you with a relaxing and long remembered experience. Why not give it a try.

48. Go to bed early for three or four days before flying abroad. This helps the body adjust for time changes to come.

49. Never leave money, valuables, or your passport unattended at any time!

50. Travelers with special needs should not hesitate to travel. Airlines, hotels, campgrounds and attractions are usually well equipped and prepared to accommodate unique requirements that make a person's travels pleasant.

51. Make it a practice to try the local foods wherever your travels take you. Otherwise you could spend the rest of your life eating hamburgers and french fries and wouldn't that be a shame. Bon appetit!

52. If you're traveling with a group and want to go off on your own, do so! Just be sure that you know the area is safe and that you return on time for planned activities. If you have a guide or escort, always check with that person before going out on your own.

53. Is traveling new to you? An excellent chance for you to practice is by visiting your own home town. Approach your city as though it were totally strange to you. What would you do? Where would you visit? Eat? Stay?

54. You might want to consider packing a "wake up kit" which includes a mug, spoon, instant coffee or tea, sweetener, dry creamer, and a plug-in immersion heater. It's a great way to start the day.

55. The US Customs Service puts out an outstanding publication detailing custom regulations affecting travelers. It is available free of charge by requesting "Know Before You Go," United States Customs Service, P.O. Box 7404, Washington DCup20044.

56. If you travel with medicine it's wise to carry it in the bottle the prescription came in to avoid any confusion during custom inspections.

57. A micro-cassette and/or camcorder are wonderful travel companions. Information can be recorded in advance about destinations. Also, information can be recorded as the trip progresses. A microcassette often weighs considerably less than travel guides and books. When you return, it's exciting to hear and view a tour guide, entertainers, or musicians enjoyed during your journey. Avoid taking heavy travel guides with you (make copies of pages of interest). When you arrive at your destination, you'll usually discover plenty of information developed locally to help the visitor know where to visit and what to see.

58. It's fun to read itineraries and to enjoy all the beautiful photographs in a travel brochure. A word to the wise, however. Read all of the small print and details to find out exactly what you're getting. Don't be taken in by advertising glitz or travel brochure hype.

59. It doesn't hurt to take a few personal checks along with you. Although they won't be accepted everywhere, some stores will take them and often give you a better price than for credit card purchases.

60. Tipping is always of concern. If in doubt, ASK! Tips to local guides are usually covered on all-inclusive tours. On optional sightseeing excursions it's usual to tip the local guide and bus driver. It's also customary to tip the tour director at the end of the tour if service warrants it.

61. It's helpful to pack and repack articles in the same order each time. During short stays, you'll then be able to reach into your bags and find what you want without unpacking completely.

62. Pack some of your traveling companion's clothes in your bag, and vice versa. Both of you'll then have a change of clothing if one bag is lost. It's a good idea to take a change of clothes in your on-flight bag.

63. Solar powered equipment is useful to take along if possible. Batteries are often quite heavy and need to be replaced when you least want to.

64. Send for a copy of the Feast-Fast/Jet Lag Diet developed by the US Department of Energy. Request a copy from Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Ave., Argonne IL 60439. Some libraries and bookstores stock jet lag diet books.

65. Leave your itinerary with your friends, relatives, neighbors, or co-workers. They may need to contact you.

66. Find out in advance who to call in case your checks or credit cards are lost or stolen.

67. If you're staying in a hotel or motel ask the desk clerk if they have a safe for storing any valuables you may have with you.

68. Take a sweater in your tote to wear on the plane in case it gets cold, as it often does on planes. Ask the flight attendant for a blanket and pillow as soon as you are seated.

69. If you intend to do much shopping on your trip, pack a flat fabric bag in the bottom of your suitcase. On your home bound trip, put all of your purchases in this bag. It speeds up your custom inspection to have all purchases in one convenient location.

70. It doesn't hurt to keep a list of credit card numbers, telephone numbers, and driver license information in a convenient location such as a purse or wallet.

71. Ever think of taking an emergency dental kit with you when you travel? Try including some oil of cloves, aspirin or aspirin substitute, small container of hydrogen peroxide and water, dental floss, a dental mirror, and gauze.

72. Keep a log as you go of all of your purchases. Include what you paid in foreign currency and the equivalent in U.S. dollars. This really helps when it's time to complete customs forms.

73. Before calling long distance from your hotel, find out the hotel's added fee for making calls from your room. Look into taking prepaid calling cards. They're often less expensive and easy to use. NOTE: If you need a gift for someone who's taking a trip, pre-paid telephone cards make a wonderfully useful present.

74. Remember this advice for sightseers: Never stand when you can sit, never sit when you can lie down, and never pass up a chance to use the bathroom.

75. Get plenty of small bills and change for tipping purposes as soon as you enter a country. This way you won't waste money over tipping because you don't have change.

76. Don't economize by skipping meals. Sightseeing takes energy.

77. If you have a special diet, notify your travel agent, airline, or tour operator in advance. Most can accommodate you with special meals.

78. Always check museum and shopping hours in advance. It's very disappointing to find things closed when you expect them to be open. Remember to check on special holidays as well. Remember the old adage: They have a 4th of July in England, but it's not a holiday!

79. Give yourself some spare time for visiting a fascinating place, a special shop, a hidden cafe. Don't program yourself too tightly.

80. A Swiss army knife can solve a lot of problems. It's light weight and handy to carry with you in your shoulder bag. You may be asked about it as a safety precaution, but it's worth any amount of time it takes to show it to security.

81. A collapsible cup is worth its weight in gold when you need some liquid from a faucet or hose. These cups are inexpensive and light to carry.

82. On a cruise vacation you do what you want to do. If you'd rather be a sports spectator than a sport, that's perfectly OK. You can do everything or you can lie back and do absolutely nothing. It's your vacation!

83. Carry a spare set of batteries for your camera, radio, camcorder, etc. Batteries are not always available overseas and often cost considerably more than in the United States.

84. Don't feel that you have to do everything to get your money's worth. There's not a thing wrong with relaxing and taking a breather along the way.

85. It's a good idea to carry the name, address and telephone number of the hotel where you are staying. Simply ask for a business card when you check in. It comes in handy should you get lost and need to find your way or for taxi drivers.

86. Buying gifts? Make a list before leaving home of the names of people you want to purchase gifts for. Check the names off as you make your purchases.

87. Going on a cruise? You might want to contact the Cruise Lines International Association, Pier 35, Suite 200, San Francisco CA 94133 and request a copy of "Answers to the Most Asked Questions about Cruising."

88. Accept the customs of the country you're visiting. In some places everything stops in the middle of the day for a long siesta, and dinner is very late. Go along with it! Part of any vacation is escaping from your normal routines. And remember, you're in their country!

89. If you have an instant camera, take it along. Especially in an off the beaten path place, a photograph often brings incredible smiles from the local residents.

90. Don't worry about tipping. If someone performs a service you really appreciate, go ahead and tip. If someone's not deserving, don't tip. It's that simple!

91. Ask your travel consultant about weather in the places you'll be visiting. Another source for this information is your local library. It's best to be prepared by taking along a light, inexpensive raincoat.

92. Never be without some toilet paper in your shoulder bag. It's light to carry. It doesn't hurt to carry along sanitary toilet seat covers as well.

93. Check on the holidays in the countries you'll be visiting. They can make a difference in what facilities and attractions will be available for you.

94. If you are traveling by air, ask for a seat away from the galleys, partitions, or toilets. If you're traveling with one other person, reserve the window and aisle seats in a three seat section. Few people select middle seats unless a plane is fully booked. If someone shows up for the middle seat just ask to exchange, it usually works.

95. Obtain the name and address of the state and national tourist offices for places you'll be visiting. Write them well in advance of your trip. They'll send you a wealth of information about their location.

96. It doesn't hurt to take along a light weight plastic flask. It can be filled with water, booze, fruit juice, or whatever. Carry it in your shoulder bag.

97. Packaged flower seeds from home can make a great gift for a foreign friend. They are lightweight and easy to carry. Flower seeds from places visited make a wonderful souvenir. Plant them on your return and as the flowers grow so will your memories.

98. Always check in advance the amount of luggage you may take. Planes, trains, motorcoaches all have regulations regarding amount and size of luggage they will allow. It's courteous to stick to their requirements and can save you a lot of embarrassment, added expense, aggravation, and trouble.

99. It's wise to check the handles and zippers on your luggage before leaving home. Usually if they're going to break it'll be just when you need them the most.

100. Travel requires patience, a positive attitude, and an ability to laugh. If you can't relax and enjoy the unexpected then don't travel. Anything can be an unpleasant experience if you make it so. Otherwise, traveling will be one of the most exciting experiences you can have.

101. Do it! Don't put it off! Go and enjoy!