How to Retire in Bali

Typically, most retirees yearn to live out their remaining years in solitude by staying in their homes, and only moving about 15 miles away to a retirement community or nursing home when the time comes. Others look upon retirement as an opportunity to see faraway places and do things that were not possible while they were working. A select few retire in Bali, an Indonesian paradise dotted with rice paddies while providing almost endless miles of pristine beaches. Here are a few things to do when you retire in Bali.

Tips

1. Learn all you can about Bali before deciding to give it a try. Simply start by entering "Bali" into your search engine, and read all you can find. Only then will you be in a position to take the next step..
2. Before you take up permanent residence in Bali, stay there for at least six months to see if Bali is where you want to spend the rest of your life. Real estate is very inexpensive there so you will be able to live in the lap of luxury while you decide. For example, you can rent a small house with air conditioning and a pool for less than $1,000 per month.
3. Seek help to obtain a visa for longer than 30 days. Immigration issues in Indonesia are some of the most difficult in Asia, because many foreigners have discovered its beauty, diversity and low cost of living. For that reason, authorities there make you go through hoops to comply with their immigration regulations.
4. Secure medical coverage before you leave. Understand that Medicare will not cover you while you are on foreign soil so some type of private coverage will be necessary. There are numerous private hospitals there to handle certain emergencies. More serious issues usually are referred to hospitals in Jakarta.
5. Become a part of the local community by reaching out to other expatriates and learning the local language. There are over 20 thousand people who have moved to Bali from different parts of the world, and they are concentrated on the southern coast and in Ubud, located at the center of the island. Because there are so many foreigners there, retailers have made a business of satisfying the needs of this special community.
6. Prepare to sharpen up your golf or tennis game because both are very popular in Bali, thanks to the expatriate community which is both well organized and advanced. Finding people with your same passions is easy in Bali.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Seminyak, Bali

The bustling beach town of Seminyak, on the west coast of Bali, is a popular destination for tourists and resident ex-pats because of its high-end resorts and restaurants. Unlike neighboring beach towns like Kuta which cater to backpackers and budget travelers, Seminyak offers a sophisticated night scene with stylish bars like Ku De Ta on the five-star strip of Jalan Oberoi; guests can sip pricey cocktails while listening to live DJs from all around the world.

Tips

1. Splurge on waterfront accommodations. Seminyak offers a wide range of upscale places to stay, from five-star resorts to luxury villa rentals with swimming pools that overlook the Bali Strait. Consider The Samaya or the Sofitel Hotel, both of which occupy prime real estate along Seminyak Beach.
2. Think beyond Balinese batiks. Bali is known around the world for its hand-dyed batik textiles. However, the chic boutiques along the main streets of Jalan Laksamana and Raya Seminyak offer more Balinese treasures. Explore Basia for locally-made cotton, linen and silk chiffon clothing. Choose Pura Vida for bohemian-style T-shirts, dresses, skirts and capri pants. Go to Kiki's Closet for fashionable kids' attire.
3. Sample Seminyak's international fare. The range of food options in this small beach town may surprise you. Try Grocer & Grind for deli sandwiches and gourmet coffee. Order brick-oven pizzas like the Rustica, topped with chopped tomatoes, percino cheese, artichokes, spinach and braesola at Trattoria's. Enjoy authentic Moroccan meals with a shisha pipe at Khaima, or dine on Indonesian dishes like Ika Bakar at Breeze at The Samaya resort.
4. Check out the surf scene on Petitenget Beach. Seminyak's black sand beach is a popular surfing destination. You can rent boogie boards and surfboards at various shacks along the beach, or sign up for a proper surfing lesson at Rip Curl School of Surf.

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How to Get to Bali

Bali is a remarkable Indonesian island, home to a vibrant cultural scene and the country's most popular tourist hot spots. Coral reefs, black sand beaches, a vast array of wildlife species, and bustling cities draw visitors from all of the world. There are several different ways to get to Bali and, though it's out of the way, your trip will be well worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

• Passport
• Visa
• Plane ticket
• Train ticket
• Bus ticket
• Reservations for a cruise

Tips
Traveling to Bali

1. Research travel websites for the best airfare. Bali is listed as Denpasar on flight timetables. To find cost-effective tickets, visit travelzoo.com or travelocity.com. There are some direct flights from different countries, but generally it's quite difficult to find them, so a layover in another country or major city is often necessary. You may find cheaper tickets into the country's capitol of Jakarta, from where you can take a domestic flight into Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport.
2. Take a ferry from Ketapang in Java to Gilimanuk in Bali. The ferries run 24 hours every day. They leave every half hour and take 15-25 minutes based on water conditions. Once you arrive you can jump on a number of buses that will take you into the main cities.
3. Board a bus from Surabaya, Yogya or Jakarta. While it is impossible to take a bus all the way there, these bus lines meet up with the ferry that takes you to Bali. Lorena is one of the most popular bus lines for its comfort and safety. You can purchase tickets for buses and ferries at a tourism center or at the Ubung terminal.
4. Take a train from Jakarta's Kota Station or Java's Surabaya Gubeng Station. The ride takes roughly eight hours and travels across the straits to Bali. The train terminals can be accessed by taking a taxi from the Jakarta or Java airports.
5. Cruise your way to Bali in style by buying tickets for a luxury cruise ship. There are a number of cruise lines that travel to the various islands of Indonesia. Seven Seas, Silolano and Ombak Putih are popular among tourists. On these ships you'll enjoy fabulous Indonesian cuisine, breathtaking views, spacious cabins and a stress-free journey to Bali.

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How to Pack for a Trip to Bali

Bali boasts some of the world's most beautiful beaches, renowned surf and dive spots, and intriguing religious monuments. Whatever your pleasure, prepare for hot, humid conditions.

Things You'll Need

• Long Pants
• Long-sleeved Shirts
• Sandals
• Shorts
• Skirts
• Sundresses
• Sunglasses
• Sweaters
• Tank Top
• Thongs
• Walking Shoes
• Wide-brimmed Hats
• Travel Adapters And Converters
• Insect Repellents
• Sunscreen

Tips

1. Pack light and casual for your visit to Bali, as the heat and humidity persist year-round. Bring clothes that are easy to wash. The intense humidity may have you changing clothes often, and laundry facilities are hard to find.
2. Take shorts, tank tops, sundresses, skirts and T-shirts made of cotton and linen to remain as cool as possible. Thongs or slip-on sandals are a must, as are walking shoes if you plan to do extensive sight-seeing.
3. Bring lightweight pants, long skirts, long-sleeved shirts and a sweater for visits to the temples. You'll be required to keep your skin covered, and because some sites are high atop dormant volcanoes, such attire will keep you warm.
4. Remember your beach attire: swimsuit, sunblock, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
5. Stash bug spray and mosquito repellent in your bag.
6. Pack an electric converter and adapter.

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How to Travel to Bali

Bali is a popular tourist destination in the Indonesian island chain. From sandy beaches to Hindu temples, Bali has many interesting places that attract visitors. Bali has unique cultural and religious practices that require respect. Do your homework on Bali to make your trip a great success.

Tips

1. Tell the agent your travel plans when renting a car. Avoid signing the contract until discussing your itinerary. Some rental contracts restrict the areas to which you can drive. Get a special permit letter from the rental agency when traveling to restricted areas.
2. Avoid scams on the highway. Ignore people who try to get you to pull over to "fix" problems with your car. The problems are usually fictitious, but you still will be charged for repairs. Be careful about similar warnings from car rental operators.
3. Expect physical contact as part of conversation. The people of Bali are very polite. Touching and smiling is the norm.
4. Gesture with your whole hand. Don't point with your index finger. Avoid signs of anger such as placing our hands on your hips and crossing your arms.
5. Avoid touching food or people with the left hand because Balinese consider it unclean.
6. Wear a sash when visiting Balinese Hindu temples. Rental sashes are available onsite for a fee. Avoid wearing shorts or other above-knee clothing in a temple. Either dress appropriately or take a sarong when visiting holy places.
7. Familiarize yourself with the types of Indonesian toilets, some of which are crude by Western standards. Most restaurants and tourist hotels have Western-style toilets. Sinks are often outside the restroom. Sometimes people are charged a small fee to use the restroom in public places. Ask for the WC "way-say" if you need to locate a restroom.

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How to Buy an All-Inclusive Resort Package

Resort vacationing is a trendy and convenient way to travel and get away from it all. Besides the natural beauty and seclusion offered by many resorts, travelers save on overall cost because they don't pay for separate amenities. Buy an all-inclusive resort package if you want your dream escape to be comfortable, affordable and no hassle.

Tips

1. Figure out what part of the world you would like to visit. Think about what sorts of activities you and your travel mates or family would like to participate in and what sort of amenities you desire.
2. Decide whether you would like to buy an all-inclusive resort package directly from a well-known resort, such as Club Med, or through a travel agency like American Express Travel. Know that some travel agencies have access to better discounts and may offer more variety. Although, some resorts offer their own deep discounts if you buy your all-inclusive resort package directly from them.
3. Consider who will be traveling with you before you buy an all-inclusive resort package. Some resorts are adult only while other resorts are family- friendly.
4. Make a decision about where you would like to vacation exactly, either with the help of a travel agent or on your own. Keep your options in mind. Shop online and telephone travel agencies or resorts for general information. Check also with local travel agencies.
5. Contact a travel agent or resort representative and ask them about the all-inclusive resort packages that they offer. Ask them to send brochures featuring pricing and amenities information to you. Start thinking about travel dates.
6. Choose a resort destination. Book and buy an all-inclusive resort package that will satisfy you and your travel mates. Reserve your all-inclusive resort package way in advance, keeping in mind the competitiveness of peak season and holiday travel

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How to Pack Minimal Clothing for a Trip

Traveling light has various benefits. It won't be difficult handling your luggage from one place to the next. Lighter luggage means less strain on your body. You will also be able to have more room for souvenirs. However, traveling light doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style for simplicity. When planning out your travel wardrobe, you can have a solid grasp on what you will wear and incorporate looking good.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet Connection
• Telephone
• Books on Destination
• Suitcase
• Packing List

Tips

1. Do research on the location that you will be visiting. If you want to fit in with the locals, find out what they wear. For example, churches in some European Catholic countries have a strict dress code that forbids shorts, skirts above the knee and bare shoulders. In comparison, a tropical Hawaiian vacation will be more laid back.
2. Create a packing list. When planning out your wardrobe, take into account factors, such as the length of your stay and the location's weather.
3. Decide what your limitations are. In his blog, author Tim Ferriss states that he is a fan of Exofficio lightweight underwear whose tagline is "17 countries. 6 weeks. And one pair of underwear." Some people wouldn't mind saving a little space by cutting down on underwear, while others may cringe at a potential hygiene hazard.
4. Figure out a laundry strategy. This is key in maintaining your minimalist travel wardrobe. Do research or make a phone call and find out whether laundry service is readily available where you will be staying. Consider hand washing and air drying your items overnight in order to get multiple use of your pieces.
5. Reuse items. Some pieces can be worn multiple times, such as a pair of pants
6. Seek out reversible and multipurpose clothing. There are pieces that are made to transform into different styles, such as a top that can also become a skirt or a dress.

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How to Plan a Holiday Party for the Office

In large corporations the annual holiday get-together just happens, as if by magic. Pros - or the boss's assistant - handle all the details and all the employees have to do is show up. In smaller companies and the nonprofit sector it's a different story.

Things You'll Need

• Mystery Kits
• Party Decorations
• Beer
• Liquor
• Party Food
• Soft Drinks
• Wines
• Bar Supplies
• Cocktail Mixers

Tips

1. Find out if your co-workers want to honor the year-end holidays. If your group is small enough, gather everyone around the conference table and discuss it; otherwise, distribute a survey. Don't expect many unanimous decisions, just strive to please the majority.
2. Encourage everyone to be blunt about everything from how they feel about holiday celebrations in the first place to what time of day would suit them best. An evening or weekend bash that singles might love could be a logistical nightmare for single parents or working couples.
3. Decide how you'll finance the festivities. Be sensitive to varying income levels within the company, as well as to all the other expenses people have at holiday time.
4. Ask everyone whether they'd prefer an employees-only gathering or one that includes spouses and significant others. Expect a mixed response. To some people a couples' party is a delightful evening out with their romantic partner; to others it's just one more time they have to find (and pay) a baby sitter; to still others it's a time they feel compelled to produce a date whether they want to or not.
5. Be prepared to throw tradition to the wind. For instance, if you've always had an event at a restaurant, have a catered lunch or after-work party instead. You'll all be able to chat more freely than you could at a restaurant table.
6. Plan some games and activities. By the time the office party rolls around, the holiday social scene has grown a bit stale for some folks. If your work group numbers only a dozen or so, consider playing a murder mystery game you buy in kit form (see "How to Plan a New Year's Eve Mystery Party").

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How to Book Travel on Maldivian

The national airline of the Maldivian aims to provide friendly service throughout the islands and abroad. The short flights make island-hopping quick and easy. Despite its small size, the airline's staff and crew works hard to satisfy the needs and concerns of both tourists and locals in providing quality service. Follow these steps to book your flight.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Telephone

Tips
Book Your Tickets on Maldivian

Visit www.maldivian.aero for reservations and ticketing at your convenience or phone our call center at 011 (+960) 333 5544 to book your tickets.

Alternatively, you can visit one of the sales offices and large network of sales agents located at all of the Maldivian destinations for reservations and ticketing.

Choose a Departure City and Destination Served by Maldivian

Check the airline's Web site for domestic and international schedules before making any travel plans (see Resources below). Flight schedules change from season to season.
Base your Maldivian adventure around the capital city of Male'. All flights between the islands start or end at Male' International Airport. From here, you can easily catch flights to Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo, Hanimaadhoo and Gan.
Fly to Hanimaadhoo, the northernmost airport, to reach the resorts and islands of the Maldives. A flight here is a good way to get away from other tourists. These islands are for the most part not frequented by foreigners.

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How to Find Cheap Hotels in Male Maldives

How to Find Cheap Hotels in Male Maldives. Male is the capital city of the Maldives, an archipelago of more than 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean about 400 miles southwest of the southern tip of India. The Maldives are noted for their stunning white-sand beaches and amazingly blue waters, reputedly the clearest in the world. As a result, they have become a major tourist destination for divers and other devotees of water sports.

Things You'll Need

• Evidence of sufficient finances for the duration of your stay
• A computer with Internet access for booking reservations
• A return ticket
• A valid passport

Tips
Find Cheap Accommodations in Male, Maldives

• Get help booking your lodgings for Male from the Maldives Tourism Promotion Board at 960-332-3228 or via their Web site (see Resources below).
• Consider booking a package that includes air, hotel and car rental. Rates for each element of the package can usually be obtained for a relatively cheap price when booking all at once as opposed to booking each element separately.
• Sleep onboard your ship if you've traveled to Male as part of a cruise. Male's many attractions are within a short distance of the water.
• Consider renting a cottage in Male for a 'next to nature' way of experiencing the islands--what you lack in amenities, you'll make up for in budget.
• Look into renting cheap accommodations onboard a houseboat or other vessel moored long-term in Male. Rooms are usually available for the hearty traveler willing to experience tight sleeping quarters for a modest price.
• Book well in advance to get the best rates. Most of Male's hotels offer discounts for travelers who book and pay for their accommodations far ahead of their arrival.

Schedule Travel to Male, Maldives

• Book a flight with any of the several dozen international airlines and charters that fly to Male, Maldives.
• Sail to Male. Several cruise lines stop here, and a number of the resorts have mooring facilities for private vessels.

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All Inclusive Packages in the Maldives

The Maldives are a chain of islands located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 435 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. The islands' major industries are fishing and tourism. Many island resorts offer all inclusive packages which may be booked directly on the resort's own website or through various travel companies. The Maldives consist of 1190 islands with more than 100 vacations resorts to choose from. All inclusive resorts accept credit cards and U.S. dollars for additional items such as excursions and sailing cruises.

Kuredu Island Resort

• The Kuredu Island Resort offers all inclusive vacation packages. The resort is located on the northern reef of Lhaviyani Atoll (a ring shaped coral reef) on Kuredu Island, 80 miles north of the international Hulhule Airport. Travel to the resort will take 40 minutes by seaplane or four hours by speedboat. Accommodations comprise of 383 bungalows and villas in six categories ranging from Garden Bungalows to Sultan Villas. The resort amenities include seven restaurants, seven bars, two coffee shops, indoor gymnasium, two swimming pools, snorkel center, water sports, two spas and the largest dive center in the Maldives, with a hyperbaric chamber attended by medical professionals. There are several all-inclusive packages that may include breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main restaurant and beverages served in allocated bars. A discount to all-inclusive guests is offered at the a la carte restaurant. Tennis, golf and spa treatments may also be included.

  Kuredu Island Resort and Spa

  Lhaviyani Atoll

  Kuredu

  00960-662-0337

  www.kuredu.com

Thulhagiri Island Resort and Spa

• The Thulhagiri Island Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive vacation destination situated in North Male' Atoll and approximately eight miles from Male' international airport. Airport transfers take approximately 25 minutes by speedboat. Accommodations offer a choice of 34 water bungalows or 52 deluxe beach bungalows; all with palm thatched roofs, verandas and views of the Indian Ocean. An all-inclusive package provides accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner at the buffet restaurant while beverages are available from a choice of two bars. The resort does not allow guests to entertain others on an all-inclusive account. The resort has weekly entertainment including live bands, discos, magic shows, acrobats and crab racing. The Coconut Spa provides a range of treatments and packages while amenities include a small swimming pool and a sub aqua diving center.

  Thulhagiri Island Resort and Spa Maldives

  North Male' Atoll

  Republic of The Maldives

  00960-664-5930

  thulhagiri.com.mv

Gasfinolhu Island Resort

• The Gasfinolhu Island Resort is a small, private island, located on the North Male' Atoll. Transfer from Male' International Airport is a 40 minute speedboat ride. The all-inclusive resort package includes accommodation, meals, spa treatments and on site activities. A choice of 40 beach bungalows with thatched roofs and coral exterior walls are available for lodging. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet style at the Ilaa Restaurant while the beach bar serves specialty cocktails overlooking the Indian Ocean. The Duniye Spa treatments include massages of the world, body care and rituals. The resort organizes excursions including fishing trips, snorkeling and island hopping on a small boat. A weekly nighttime program is provided with entertainments such as a Bodu Beru Cultural Dance Show and a DJ disco.

  Gasfinolhu Island Resort

  North Male' Atoll

  Republic of Maldives

  00960-664-2078

  gasfinolhuisland.com

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How to Plan a Holiday Trip

Each year, millions of people load up the family car and set out on a holiday trip. Whether it’s to grandma’s house, a family reunion or simply a holiday getaway, these yearly road trips can often be the source of dread and stress. The thought of being trapped in the car with restless children or the possibility of car trouble along the way is enough to make anyone consider staying home. Luckily, with a little planning, these situations can be avoided.

Tips

1. Plan out the route for your car trip. If you're planning on driving to your holiday destination, a little planning can help make your trip easy and uneventful. Consider your starting point and desired destination, and investigate several possible routes. Remember, it's likely that you won't be the only person on the road during the holidays, and traffic is always a factor. Alternate routes or shortcuts can help reduce time spent in traffic jams and get you to your destination sooner. This information can also come in handy in case of detours, road construction or other situations that might block your primary route.
2. Book airline tickets. Although traveling by air can be quick and convenient, it can also be much more expensive. Start planning your trip early to take advantage of advance purchase discounts and avoid sold out flights. Many airlines become extremely busy during the holidays so booking in advance can also help ensure that you get the flights that you want. High traffic destinations such as New York, Los Angeles or Atlanta can be extremely congested during the holidays. If you have the option, consider booking your flight to a nearby airport and renting a car for the short drive to your destination.
3. Consider your luggage needs. If you're traveling by car, the issue of luggage is only important with regards to the amount of room needed. Before you begin packing, think about how many people will be in your vehicle and how much room they will need to travel comfortably. This could affect the number of bags that you can take along. For traveling by air, the number of bags that you take is a much bigger concern. Not only is the possibility of lost luggage an issue, but most airlines now charge extra for checked baggage. For a family of four, carrying a few bags each could result in several hundred dollars worth of baggage fees during your trip. Try to pack as lightly as possible.
4. Plan your trip to avoid peak travel times. If you have the flexibility, consider planning your travel on days or during times when you are less likely to encounter others. Highways are typically more busy on Fridays and Sundays, so traveling on Tuesday or Thursday will help you to avoid traffic jams. Traveling at night is also a great way to miss the traffic and the kids will sleep during the trip. Although the same general theory works for airline travel, overnight travel is not usually an option. Airline websites often show the difference in fares during non-peak times, which can help you plan your trip. Traveling during non-peak times can also reduce the possibility of delays or canceled flights.
5. Consider alternative travel options. As an alternative to driving or flying, check into the possibility of traveling by train, bus or even boat. These options will allow you to enjoy your trip and reduce the stress of driving or running through airports. Given that these options are less popular, you can also find great deals on holiday travel.

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How to Plan a Holiday Getaway

Nothing makes a holiday more fun or exciting than deciding to pack a bag, grab your camera and take a holiday trip. A holiday getaway can mean long travel times, delayed flights and increased costs , though, if you don't plan your trip wisely. Whether you're going out of state or planning a trip around the world, here are some tips to help you plan a great holiday getaway

Tips

1. Start planning early. The holidays are always a hectic time to travel because there are a lot of other people traveling too. Begin making your travel arrangements as far in advance as possible. This will guarantee that hotel rooms will be available, rental cars can be obtained at a reasonable price, plane tickets can be purchased at normal rates instead of the inflated holiday fares and special events can be anticipated and planned out.
2. Budget for the holiday. Traveling during the holidays is always more expensive than traveling at normal times of the year. Airfare is higher, gas prices tend to skyrocket and there are smaller but necessary expenses, like food and gift purchases, to take into account as well. To avoid this become stressful during your holiday getaway, budget your trip according to a holiday-friendly budget. Account for these extra added expenses and set aside a little more money to cover them so that you can keep track of your money and still have a great time on your trip.
3. Pack accordingly. If you're hitting the slopes for Christmas, you've already got the sweaters and the parka out and ready to go ski. But if your holiday getaway is taking you somewhere tropical, you will be required to do a little extra packing. Begin packing at least a few days prior to your departure so that you can make sure that everything you will need for your getaway destination has been accounted for, laundered if necessary and packed in the appropriate luggage. This will keep you from rushing around right before you leave and will help eliminate the possibility that you will forget something important.
4. Look for holiday deals. While the holidays can be an expensive time to travel in some ways, that particular time of year can also be a great time to find exceptional travel deals and discounted travel packages. Look into travel packages that allow you to purchase your airfare, rental car and/or hotel rooms at one rate. Packages like this will often offer a substantial discount for purchasing them together, especially if you book them well in advance of your anticipated travel date.
5. Account for holiday closures. You will need to visit a variety of places when taking care of your last minute errands and shopping before leaving for your holiday getaway. The bank, pharmacy, dry cleaners and dog boarder are all places that may be important to your pre-travel preparations. Many of these places have shortened hours during the holiday season or are closed for periods of time during the holidays so make sure that you find out if they will have special hours.
6. Anticipate delays or obstacles. Because travel is heavier during the holidays, be prepared for flight delays and long lines. It is rare that travel plans happen exactly on time, especially during the holidays, so keep this in mind when planning departure and arrival times and when meeting people at airports and hotels. Leave yourself a little extra time to get to the airport and through security and pack a few toys to keep the kids occupied or a book to help you pass the time in case you get stuck waiting for a flight or a rental car.

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