Ubiquity International :: Experience. Explore. Embrace the world.

We Are Not Lost Says Founder of Ubiquity International
Travel Expert Thomas Talboy Shares Top Travel Tips for a Better Vacation

Piedmont, CA – May 16, 2006 – It’s that time of year again when travelers dust off their passports and prepare for summertime trips abroad. World traveler Thomas Talboy, founder of Ubiquity International, the premier provider of unique cultural, historical and educational travel experiences throughout the world, offers his favorite tips for successful globetrotting that are sure to make any vacation more manageable and enjoyable.

“These suggestions were learned over the course of many years and trips all over the world,” said Talboy, who through Ubiquity International offers personalized itineraries to Florence, Naples, Pompeii, Paris, Athens and the Greek Isles, Perú, Spain, Ireland and Northern Greece.
The following are Dr. Tom’s 10 Terrific Travel Tips:

1. Think about distance between destinations.
Incorporate travel time between sites and anticipate possible delays - trains in Europe and elsewhere are usually very reliable, but there can be unexpected delays. This applies to driving too: what might look like an easy four hour drive may end up taking you longer simply because you will want to stop an explore along the way.

2. Be realistic about the duration of your trip.
Avoid squeezing 10 days into a seven day trip. You don't have to hit every site mentioned in the guidebook. Plan your itinerary and focus on the sites and activities you want to experience most. Then return again next year. Allow time to visit sites and time to relax and enjoy a new environment. Remember, you are on vacation.

3. Be flexible, open-minded and patient.
Always have a backup plan. Unexpected foreign holidays can lead to museum and historical site closures. Remember you are visiting a different culture and while we are all humans, we have different ways of approaching life. Don’t expect everyone to be an American.

4. Know what you want, but listen to advice.
It is good to have a plan for what you want to do and see, but listen to suggestions from others, particularly if you are encouraged to visit a museum at an early hour or avoid a particular location on a certain day. Communicate your needs to your travel agent, the tour company, the hotel and anyone else. No one can help or advise you without knowing what it is you are after.

5. Let the trip challenge you and learn from it.
Travel is full of exciting adventures. There will always be something that is a little different or not quite what you expected. Instead of being derailed by the unexpected, learn from the experience and come to understand the culture.

6. Get lost.
There is always something new and different around the next corner. Try a left turn instead of a right one on your usual walk. If a sign on a shop says “closed” but it is still during opening hours, knock anyway, maybe they forgot to remove the sign. Enjoy the adventure and embrace a new city!

7. Speak the language.
At least try to learn a few phrases, even if it is just “Buon Giorno” or “Buenos Días.” First impressions go a long way and if you show your willingness to embrace the language and culture, you may find many more doors open to you.

8. Prepare before you go.
Make sure you are aware of how to contact emergency personnel and the location of your embassy or consulate. Know the laws and customs of the country that you are visiting.
9. Make your trip a shared dream.
Travel with friends made up of alumni from your school or friends at your church; meet your family and loved ones for a holiday. Create memories to last a lifetime.

10. Take care of yourself.
Be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen at all times. Walking and visiting sites require energy and water. Carry light snacks with you for a quick boost. Even in cooler weather, outside activities expose you to sunlight, so carry sunscreen – don’t be fooled by overcast skies. Dress in layers so you can warm up or cool down as necessary.