Tag: international travel

Before You Travel: Key Phrases to Learn in the Local Language

While you don’t need to be fluent or have perfect pronunciation, learning a few key phrases in your destination’s language makes a great impression and could also make your travels much smoother. Below is a list of universal phrases worth learning before you leave—be sure to make adjustments to adapt to your own unique travel… Read more »

How to be “Smart” with Your Smartphone When Traveling Abroad

In a recent mobile study, Google reports that 80% of smartphone users don’t leave home without their devices.  Sound like you? For those of you planning to use your smartphone abroad, here are some things you should know—and do—before and during your trip. 1. Find out if your phone will work: This may sound like… Read more »

Keep Your Cool: What to Do If Your Passport is Lost or Stolen While Traveling

Post updated on 12/11/18. What would you do if your passport was lost or stolen while traveling overseas? The bad news—it could eat up a little bit of your time, money, and patience (and potentially delay your trip). The good news? If you’re prepared and know what to expect, you can actually make things a… Read more »

Need a Passport ASAP? A Step-by-Step Guide for the Last Minute Traveler

It happens to the best of us. You’re leaving for your trip soon and you just realized that your passport is about to expire. There is no way you can possibly wait 4-6 weeks for routine service—so now what? On Call members, pick up your phone and we’ll give you a hand—the rest of us?… Read more »

Your Guide for Healthy Travel to Developing Countries

Recent studies suggest that more than 50 million people from industrialized nations travel to developing countries each year (Travel to Developing Countries, ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia). Whether it’s for leisure, or you’re traveling to these destinations for work or study, there are plenty of precautions you can take to protect your health and well-being while… Read more »

Recent Security Threats in Israel…and How On Call Can Help

The security situation in southern Israel and Gaza continues to be unstable following the airstrike on November 14, 2012 that killed Ahmed al-Jabari, the commander of Hamas’ military wing. While it’s strongly recommended that you avoid any travel to the Gaza Strip, if you’re currently traveling in this region, On Call International members can rest… Read more »

How (and Why) to Get an International Driving Permit

Planning to drive on your next trip abroad? Don’t forget your International Driving Permit (IDP)! IDPs are valid in more than 150 countries and contain your name, photo and driver information translated into ten languages. Although many countries do not recognize US Driver’s Licenses, most countries accept an IDP. Even On Call International’s CEO, Mike… Read more »

How to Drive Safely While Traveling Abroad

According to the U.S. State Department, motor vehicle crashes — not terrorism, crime, infectious disease or plane travel — are the number one cause of death to healthy Americans traveling abroad. Often we’re out of our element when we’re far from home, sometimes causing us to forget common sense precautions that could save our lives…. Read more »

Six Safe Travel Tips for the Olympic Games in London

London, always a highly popular destination, will welcome a flood of visitors this summer as host of the 2012 Summer Olympics. If you plan to be among them, you’re probably well aware that the influx of spectators coupled with the usual tourist mobs will make for a crowded capital city. Luckily, we’ve put together some… Read more »

Road Trip: How to Drive Safely in Mexico

Taking to the road to explore neighbor to the south? Driving around Mexico offers great opportunities to see the sights off the beaten path. With the right precautions, you’ll be set for an amazing adventure. Here are some tips to help make your trip safer: *Always purchase insurance. If you’re involved in an automobile accident… Read more »