As we come out of the cold months of winter, it is time to start planning some trips. To enhance your trips from here to there, keep the following in mind. 1. Foreign Pay Phones – Picking up the phone in another country can present a host of challenges. For instance, how much does the call cost? In most countries, you can now buy calling cards that work the phones to save you the hassle. 2. American Express Mail – If you have an American Express card, you are one lucky devil. You can have your mail sent to any American Express office in the world. Just hop over and pick it up. 3. Traveler Fanny Packs – Fanny packs are a very popular option for holding important documents such as money, passports and so on. They also stick out like a target to thieves and pickpockets. Don’t wear them. 4. Montezumas Revenge – If you get diarrhea in a country, you need to focus on keeping hydrated. Try drinking one glass of carbonated water with a table spoon of sugar. 5. Russia, Friends and Vodka – Russia is a great place to visit. The people are friendly and vodka drinking is very common. Have fun, but use your common sense. Some Russians are simply too friendly if you know what I mean. 6. Really Cheap Flights – If you have the urge to travel, but little money, there is one really cheap flight option. Charter flights are usually dirt cheap. On the downside, you get what you pay for and there are limited flights. 7. Taking Travel Guide Books - If you are traveling to multiple destinations, travel guide books can become an issue. Simply put, they are heavy. Pack one for the first destination. You can trade books with other travelers you meet. 8. Solo Travelers and Hostels – If you are traveling by yourself, you may eventually need some social time with other travelers. Hostels are the place to get it. 9. Kids and Trip Planning – Do not plan a trip without getting your kids input if you are taking them. If they are not involved, they will complain endlessly. If they are, they will be more open minded. 10. Japanese Rice Etiquette – When eating rice in Japan, never stick your chopsticks in the rice such that they are standing up vertical. It is a symbol of death. I have to admit I am addicted to travel. Experiencing another culture and way of life is just tremendous. Of course, you need to know how to laugh at yourself as well. Have a great trip.