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PASSPORTS
All U.S. and Canadian citizens must carry a passport valid for six months beyond the duration of the cruise. Non-U.S./non-Canadian citizens must have a passport and any necessary visas. In addition, non-U.S. citizens who have previously been admitted to the United States for permanent residence must carry their Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551.)
Here are a few tips to help you stay safe and healthy during your trip.
1. IF YOU ARE VACATIONING OUTSIDE THE US, make sure your passport is current and you have your tickets, documents and identification with you when you arrive at the airport. Many countries will not permit entry if your passport will expire several months beyond your date of arrival, so make sure you obtain a new passport before leaving home if there is any possibility that your passport will expire while you travel. 2. Don’t leave your country of residence without medical insurance, as you may not have as much coverage as you think. Medical treatment can be very expensive – even if you are travelling within the US – and your health insurance plan usually covers only a limited part of these costs. Make sure to carry proof of travel insurance with you, along with the travel insurance company’s name and phone number. Leave a copy of this information at home with family or friends, as well. 3. Travel arrangements are often non-refundable so don’t risk losing your entire travel investment should something unexpected happen. Purchasing cancellation and interruption insurance can help protect your investment in case you have to cancel your trip, come home early, or stay longer at your destination. 4. Increased security at airports has led to longer waiting times for travellers. Go early to give yourself plenty of time to make your flight. Don’t leave your luggage unattended in public areas and don’t accept packages from strangers. 5. Keep credit cards, travellers’ cheques, passports and other identification in different places. Make two copies of the identification page of your passport. Carry one copy with you, separate from your passport, and leave one with family or friends at home. You can also e-mail yourself this information so that if you do lose your documents you can log into your e-mail and get the relevant information. 6. Use pockets or purses only for items you will need frequently. Otherwise, use a money belt or take advantage of ship safety deposit boxes to store important documents and additional cash, so if your wallet or purse is lost or stolen, you won’t be left without identification or money. If you lose your passport, immediately call the nearest embassy or consulate and contact the local authorities. 7. Make sure you’re up to date on all your immunizations. Contact your doctor or a travel medicine clinic well in advance of your trip to see if you need any specific medication or immunizations. 8. Check to see if any travel advisories or warnings have been issued for your destination. 9. Eat fruits and vegetables that have been freshly peeled or cooked and other foods that have been well cooked. Drink bottled beverages, or hot beverages such as coffee or tea, and avoid ice that isn’t made with purified water. Don’t underestimate the importance of good personal hygiene – wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. 10. Tell your neighbours you’re going on vacation. It helps if they can pick up your mail, park a car in your driveway, etc. Just don’t forget to return the favour when it’s time for their vacation!
