ORIONWOMEN TRAVEL
WOMENS TRAVEL since 2005
orionwomen@bigpond.com
0405 228 560
CONTACT" orionwomen@bigpond.com or 0405 228 560
Travel for women in a small group to Europe & UK
WHAT TO TAKE WHEN TRAVELLING
This is a list of the maximum amount of stuff you should
ever need to cart around (the suggested quantities include those clothes
that you will be wearing).Restrict yourself to one case and leave enough room
to fit in any purchases you make while away.
Wardrobe
- Trousers/skirts (shorts?) 3-4 pairs Denim
jeans make poor travelling clothes: they're heavy, bulky, and take forever to
dry. Several companies now make trousers with zip-off legs (which convert them
to shorts), a versatile solution that may appeal to you.
-
Shirts 2-4 Loose, light, long-sleeved shirts are a great
way to layer your clothing they keep the sun off your arms in warmer
weather and are light to carry around if you need to take them off.
-
3+ tee shirts/tops � best in an easy drying fabric
for quick washing/drying
-
Swimsuit
- for hotel in
-
Jumper (cardigan) Dark A nice cardigan is an excellent layering item, and
can also substitute for a jacket when a less formal appearance is required. A dressy
jacket is an alternative option and ideal for almost any dress-up
occasion.
-
Rainwear there are plenty of opportunities to buy umbrellas
and other rainwear on the streets
-
Socks
4+ pairs Despite the fact that it feels nice and is a natural
fibre, cotton is just about the worst sock fabric available. Walking experts
overwhelmingly recommend socks made of synthetic yarns to keep your feet
comfortable and dry. Blends that add wool or alpaca are also acceptable,
especially in cooler weather; they don't wear as well, though. The goal is to
"wick" (draw) moisture away from the skin. Cotton, unfortunately, absorbs
moisture, leaving your feet moist and more susceptible to blisters, fungal
infection, and odour. It is also notoriously slow to dry, which can interfere
with your laundry plans. And finally, pay attention to fit, which is more
important that you may realize: steer clear of tube socks, one-size-fits-all
types (they don't), stretch socks (too tight), and those with toe seams. Loos
tops are good.
-
Undies/bras
6/3 pairs Look for fast drying qualities.
-
T-shirt (long)or sarong A multipurpose item, this can function as a
cover-up (for beach and bath) and nightshirt. .
An ideal solution is the wonderfully
utilitarian sarong. It also functions as a sheet, beach/picnic/airline
blanket, towel, tote/laundry bag, shower/window curtain, pillowcase, changing
room, tablecloth, and more. There are many ways to wear them.
-
Hat sun / knitted cap Choose a light, soft, floppy sun hat over one
that's too stiff to pack well; If it's cold,
take a knitted cap too.
-
Shoes 1 pair dressy -For the Ritz! Don't
break in a new pair of shoes on your trip.
-
Shoes 2 Pairs comfortable walking /joggers/boots It is a good idea to have two
pairs so that you can change when your feet get tired or sore. Also good if one
pair is rubbing after lengthy walking. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND CROCS!
-
Laundry bag
A garbage bag will do the trick there are Laundromats available close to our
hotels in
-
Luggage lock(s) (cable ties) Your bag should have zippers designed to be locked
with a small padlock. Use combination locks, rather than the keyed variety.
-
Alarm clock/watch (batteries) preferably
a battery operated one � you may want to take a spare backup battery.(Mobile
phone also makes a great alarm clock)
-
Flashlight, A flashlight (torch) can be
surprisingly useful, for navigating dark streets, late night reading, finding
your way to the toilet.
Avoid any light with a simple sliding
on/off switch, or you may arrive at your destination to discover that shifting
luggage contents have turned the switch on and the batteries are flat.
-
Multi purpose tool/Pocket knife/swiss army knife/ spoon One sure way to reduce
travel expenses is to limit the number of restaurant meals. Anyway,lunch in the
park, with fresh bread, cheese, yogurt, and fruit from the local shops, is
likely to be more memorable than another tourist trap pizza *NOTE Anything that resembles a �weapon�
such as a pocket knife will need to be packed in main suitcase.
-
Compass Not
just for backcountry hikers, a simple compass can be invaluable in helping you
navigate the urban mazes of the world. When you emerge from the
-
Inflatable travel pillow These make sleeping (or even resting) on the plane a lot
more pleasant, and may augment your hotel pillow as well. Inflatable pillows
which pack flat travel better. Be careful not to over inflate them on the
ground, as they can burst when airborne (due to reduced cabin air pressure);
slight under inflation makes them more comfortable anyway.
Repairs
-
Safety pins, rubber bands, cord Nylon parachute cord is the most versatile type,
and widely available. In addition to their obvious uses, safety pins will hold
the curtains properly closed in a hotel room, often a prerequisite to getting a
good night's sleep. Stainless steel (non-rusting) safety pins also work well as
"clothespins". Pinning your trousers pockets closed can help to deter
pickpockets in crowded areas (Velcro is even better for this, if you care to
take the trouble).
-
Sewing kit, including large needle to accommodate dental floss Basic coloured thread and a
couple of needles. Dental floss makes good strong thread in the absence of
cotton, however you will need a big eyed needle. The cutter on the dental floss
box makes an excellent thread cutter as well.
-
(Ziploc)
plastic bags, garbage bags The traveller's friend; it's difficult to
have too many small, sealable bags plus a couple of heavy duty plastic garbage
bags take up almost no space, and can serve a variety of uses (rain/dust
covers, picnic blanket, etc.).
-
Duct (or gaffer's) tape A small roll of duct tape can be pretty useful. In
addition to wrapping broken things, tape will remove lint, temporarily repair
fallen hems, and help seal packages.
Toiletries
-
Razor/nail clippers/file/tweezrs Nail files /tweezers must
be packed in main suitcase
-
Hairdryer you will need a plug adaptor � most places offer
hairdryers in the room, so it may not be necessary to take this.
-
Comb and/or hairbrush
-
Shampoo
/conditioner/hair products (good
idea to keep in a Ziploc bag to prevent leakage)
-
Deodorant
-
Bar soap & container /
-
Tissues(doubles as toilet
paper) wipes are very handy to have
in your handbag for all sorts of hand washing occasions
Laundry
-
Temporary clothesline - (shampoo can
double as washing detergent)
-
Analgesic
Aspirin, paracetamol or ibuprofen, or whatever, are best (though not most
efficiently) carried in their original packaging
- Diarrhea treatment (e.g., Lomotil and/or Cipro) The two most popular drugs for dealing with this are Lomotil [diphenoxylate atrophine](prescription only), which essentially blocks your plumbing for a day or two, or Lomitil (over the counter) and Cipro [ciprofloxacin hydrochloride], an antibiotic to kill the bugs that are causing the problem. Be aware that antimotility drugs such as Lomotil (and Imodium [loperamide], do not prevent diarrhea (in fact, they may even increase the risk for it), but they provide prompt though temporary symptomatic relief by reducing muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. Don't use them unless access to a toilet is limited (such as during a long bus ride). And never use them for more than 48 hours.
As a rule, letting nature take its course is the preferred approach, abetted
with plenty of fluid replacement (drink lots of pure water; potassium, sodium,
and calcium supplementation is also advisable). Be aware that rice, wheat,
potatoes, corn, and chicken are foods known to slow the effects of tummy
upsets. And understand that the prevention of dehydration is the most important
consideration: in severe cases, dehydration can be life threatening, particularly
in children. Agitation may be an early symptom; severe indications include
listlessness and a weak pulse, and are causes for serious concern.
-
Sunscreen, lip balm Be aware that sunscreens more than 2-3 years old
have lost their effectiveness. Decent lip balms are hard to find in most areas
of the world, so bring enough to last you.
-
Bandaids
-
Menstrual supplies
- Vitamins, necessary medications If you need to carry any prescription drug, be sure to bring along a copy of the prescription, both to replenish your supply in an emergency, and to verify your need for something that might otherwise be illegal in your destination country. The drug should be listed by brand and generic name, and include the dosage. If you have a serious condition, a letter from your doctor (translated into the local language) is a wise precaution. Carry more medicine than you expect to need, especially if travelling somewhere without Western medical standards.
Have your prescription filled in tablet form when possible, as capsules and
liquids are less stable, particularly in hot, humid climates.
-
Sunglasses
-
Reading glasses, lens cleaning cloth a spare
pair of reading glasses is recommended
-
Earplugs, eye mask, Earplugs can be extremely useful in situations where you're
trying to get some sleep. Best are those
that you compress by rolling between your fingers .If you're planning to sleep
on a long flight, you may also find an eye mask helpful.
-
Pens, small notebook, glue stick Post-it notes, Most journeys will
yield interesting items of information along the way (addresses of people you
meet, the locations of hotels, restaurants, and other recommended attractions,
a record of photographs taken, even a trip diary); make sure you bring
something in which to write them down. It can be as simple as a small
coil-bound notebook, or elaborate as a hardcover journal into which you glue
the ticket stubs, business cards, and other memorabilia that will recall your
adventures in years to come. Post it notes make great bookmarks etc.
-
Personal address book (stamps?) Don't forget to send postcards to those stuck back
home; remember that the stamps from your home country won't work in a foreign
one. Some people like to carry pre-addressed envelopes, others to buy postcards
as they go. Another solution is to bring along pre-printed address labels for
all your intended missives, and affix them to cards or envelopes as necessary
(this has the added benefit of keeping track of what you have yet to send).
Obviously, all of this depends on how much you plan to write.
-
Maps, guidebooks, phrase books, business/calling cards, telephone
access numbers
Most maps and travel info
is provided in your wallets. Extra guidebooks and maps will add to the weight
of your luggage and these can be picked up at each airport/station as you
arrive then thrown away when departing.
Long distance phone calls can be expensive from foreign countries (for that
matter, any phone calls made from a hotel room are likely to be very
costly); come prepared with a list of access numbers to reduced cost services. Even better is the use of international phone
cards (with Personal Identification Numbers), widely
available at newsstands and the like in industrialized countries.
Business/calling cards are an ideal way
to leave your address(es) with newfound friends, and are occasionally useful
for impressing local officials. Finally, consider carrying a photo or two of
your family & home, and possibly a few postcards of your city; these help
establish your identity as a "real person" to those you meet along
the way.
-
Reading material If you're a reader, travel prepared; reasonably priced books in
your preferred language are not always easy to come by in foreign countries.
Choose paperbacks with dense print; discard (or trade!) them as you go.
- Large envelopes One way to keep your bag light as you travel is to mail accumulated stuff home; having a few large manila envelopes or padded bags aids and encourages this.
Passport need to have more than 6 months left on it
-
Copies of important documents If you should manage to lose your passport,
a photocopy of the main page will make replacing it a lot easier.
Similarly for prescriptions, charge/ATM card account numbers, drivers license,
traveller's cheque serial numbers, etc. Carry the copies separate from
the originals. It's also a good idea to record the special telephone numbers
necessary to deal with the loss of any charge/ATM cards you carry; leaving an
additional copy of all this information with a trusted friend back home can
save you a lot of long distance calls in case of disaster (many 1800-type
numbers don't work very far from home ).
-
Driver's license, health insurance information In general, you'll want to
leave at home most of those cards you carry around in your wallet; leave the
wallet at home too. Something that is not too bulky or with too many
compartments is best.
-
Travel tickets (i.e., airline tickets, rail & bus passes, hotel
reservations, etc.)NOTE: We will have these
- Charge & ATM cards, cash, traveller's cheques It used to be that traveller's cheques were the preferred method for carrying money; this is no longer the case. For purchases, use charge cards whenever possible (in much of Europe & Asia, this includes even taxis & fast food outlets); you'll get a much better currency conversion rate (generally 1% over the commercial bank rate) than by any other (legal) means. You'll also postpone the final reckoning. Make sure that your cards have sufficiently high credit limits to cover what you'll need. It's also advisable to call your credit card company prior to travelling far from home, to let them know your plans; this will save you the inconvenience (and possible embarrassment) of having your card refused because the computer doesn't know you're in Rome.
Be aware that some charge card issuers (as distinct from the networks,
such as Visa and Mastercard, which make their money from the 1% mentioned
above) levy extra fees (two to four percent!) for foreign currency conversions.
If your card is one of these (find out before you leave), change cards (and let
them know why you did.
To obtain local cash, use a bank ATM card (make sure yours is part of one of the global networks, like Cirrus or
Plus); both MasterCard and Visa have Web-based ATM-finding
services. It's better not to use credit cards for this, as you'll incur
a cash transaction fee and begin accumulating interest immediately. Be aware
that 4-digit Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) are standard in most
countries; should yours be longer, arrange to get a new one. If your bank
levies a charge for foreign ATM transactions, don't withdraw $20 at a time.
Note that an American Express card also acts as a cheque guarantee card,
allowing you to cash a personal cheque at any American Express office (making
this the best non-ATM way to transfer money from home).
Yet another solution
allows you to bypass most of the charges that are sometimes attached to the use
of ATMs. This is the so-called stored value card, available from Visa and also AAA.
It's sort of like a telephone card: you load it with money and can then collect
that money from ATMs along your way, paying only the local dispenser fee.
If you do use traveller's cheques, bring more than you think you'll need, in
both large and small denominations (some currency exchange places charge by the
monetary amount of the transaction, some by the number of cheques converted).
Stick with "major labels" (e.g., American Express or Thomas Cook). As
a rule, banks (and American Express offices) will give you a better deal than
the many late-night bureaux de change you will encounter (the "no
commission" signs merely indicate that their cut is built into the exchange
rate; conversely, good exchange rates imply high commissions). Keep some cash
handy for essentials, but any significant amount safely stored (see
"security pouch" below).
Pay attention to your money. Understand all charges included in any
transaction (ask to have bills itemized). Particularly in highly touristed
areas, assume that you'll be shortchanged; always ask how much, do your own
arithmetic, and don't let yourself be hurried. Be friendly, but vigilant.
- Security pouch This may be the single most important item on this list. Street crime is rampant in most parts of the world; to compound the problem, you will usually find it difficult to avoid looking like a tourist. So never, ever, put any of the items (except document copies) from this section of the list anywhere but in a security pouch, worn under your clothes (and not accessed in any public place).
These pouches come in a variety of styles;
the safest are those worn around the waist. The type that loops around your
belt (assuming you're wearing one) and hangs down inside your pant leg, is
almost as safe, and somewhat more convenient and comfortable. Look for light
weight, and sufficient dimensions to hold what's necessary
Finally, in these days of increased airport security, with official/officious
people checking our identification/tickets/receipts/whatever at every turn,
some travellers have found it helpful to wear a handy neck pouch to hold all of
these, making them instantly available when necessary. These are not the
equivalent of a proper security pouch, and should not be used as such,
but they can reduce one's stress level when en route via air.
-
Camera (lenses? flash? tripod? film? extra batteries? Charger
-
Mobile telephone (charger?) Before you depart, ensure that the phone's technology,
your calling plan, and the battery charger are all compatible with the area(s)
you intend to visit. Also have international roaming put on your phone by your
carrier. It is imorative that you bring a mobile phone with you on the trip as
it is a great way of us all connecting with each other via SMS if we get
separated.
-
Exercise: We will be doing a lot of walking during our tour so
we recommend that you start walking and getting a bit fit before you leave
-
Power adaptors- You will need to bring one that suits the
A FEW CLOSING WORDS
People over pack because of timidity and fear of the unknown, both largely results of inexperience How will you know if your ultimate choices are good ones (preferably prior to that once-in-a-lifetime trip)? Here's a simple test... Pack your chosen bag with the items you plan to take. Put on the shoes you plan to wear. Then take a one-hour walk around town, including an ample assortment of stairs, poor roads, and the like. If you're still happy at the end of your excursion, make your travel reservations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We do encourage you to take only 15kg if possible you wont
regret it.
CHECKLIST
-
3-4 pairs trousers/skirts (shorts?)
-
2-4 shirts
-
3+ tee shirts/ tops
-
swimsuit
-
cardigan/ jumper
-
jacket
-
6undies/3 bras
-
4+ pairs socks
-
long T-shirt / sarong
-
sun hat / knitted cap
-
2
Pairs comfortable walking shoes/joggers/boots (laces) 1 pair dressy shoes
-
lightweight duffel/laundry bag
-
luggage lock(s) (cable ties)
-
alarm clock/watch (batteries) -can
use mobile phone
-
flashlight, extra batteries & bulbs
-
Multi purpose tool/Pocket knife/swiss army knife- mustnot be packed in
handluggage/ spoon
-
compass
-
inflatable travel pillow
-
safety pins, rubber bands, cord
-
sewing kit, including large needle to accommodate dental floss
-
Power adaptors (UK-Europe)
-
(Ziploc)
plastic bags, garbage bags
-
duct (or gaffer's) tape
-
toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
-
razor/nail clippers/file (must not be packed in hand luggage)
-
hairdryer comb and/or hairbrush
-
shampoo
/conditioner/hair products deodorant
-
bar soap & container
-
tissues(doubles as toilet
paper)/washcloths
-
temporary clothesline
-
analgesic
-
diarrhea treatment (e.g., Lomotil and/or Cipro
-
Bandaids
-
Menstrual supplies
-
vitamins, necessary medications
-
Sunglasses
-
Reading glasses,lens cleaning cloth
-
earplugs ,eye mask
-
pens, small notebook, glue stick Post-it� notes,
-
personal address book (stamps )
-
maps, guidebooks, phrase books, business/calling cards, telephone
access numbers
-
reading material
-
large envelopes
-
passport
- copies of important documents
driver's license, health insurance information travel tickets
-
charge & ATM cards, cash, traveller's cheques
-
personal security pouch
-
camera (lenses? flash? tripod? film? extra batteries? Charger)
-
Mobile phone plus charger
NOTE : this
is a suggested list only obviously you will pack what you think you need ,
however you will be surprised at how little you need to travel with and it
certainly makes the load lighter, which is important because we have quite a
lot of dragging of suitcases to do!!
PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE WHILE TRAVELING
International Airline passengers departing
Australia must follow restrictions on liquids, aerosols and gels in their hand
luggage.
Passengers leaving
You may still carry on board prescription medicines. Baby products and non-prescription
medicines that you need for the flight are also allowed. Proof of need may be
required.
Please Note: These
restrictions do not apply to checked-in baggage
Travel lightly one suitcase only
if possible you can move more quickly and will be more likely to have
a free hand. You will also be less tired and less likely to set your luggage
down, leaving it unattended
Carry the minimum amount of
valuables leave expensive jewellery or valuable items at home
Have a money belt (waist or neck)
for your valuables passport/credit card/travellers cheques etc
Have a sturdy handbag preferably
with a strap worn across the chest avoid outside pockets if possible.
If you wear glasses pack an extra
pair.
Put your name address and phone
number on all luggage
Consider a combination lock for your suitcase.
You will be asked at check-in if you packed your own bag and know what the contents of the suitcase are. Be sure that you did pack it yourself and that nobody put anything extra in it after you had finished.
To avoid problems when passing through customs, keep medicines in their original, labelled containers. Bring copies of your prescriptions and the generic names for the drugs. If a medication is unusual or contains narcotics, carry a letter from your doctor attesting to your need to take the drug.
Bring travellers cheques and one or two major credit cards instead of cash.
Consider getting a telephone calling card. It is a convenient way of keeping in touch. If you have one, verify that you can use it from your overseas location(s). Find out your access number before you go.
A Few Things to Bring AND Leave Behind
Make two photocopies of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver's license and the credit cards that you plan to bring with you. Leave one photocopy of this data with family or friends at home; pack the other in a place separate from where you carry your valuables.
Leave a copy of the serial numbers of your travellers cheques with a friend or relative at home. Carry your copy with you in a separate place and, as you cash the cheques, cross them off the list.
Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home in case they need to contact you in an emergency.
Things to leave behind
Valuable or expensive jewellery
All unnecessary credit cards or other cards you would normally carry in your purse
SAFETY ON THE STREET these are just a few common sense tips mostly these things wont apply to us as we are travelling together, however it is best to be informed and aware of what to look out for.
Use the same common sense travelling overseas that you would at home.
In
Be especially cautious in or avoid areas where you are likely to be victimized. These include crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, market places, festivals and marginal areas of cities.
Don't use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly-lit streets. Try not to travel alone at night.
Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments. Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.
Avoid scam artists. Beware of strangers who approach you, offering bargains or to be your guide.
Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will:
- jostle you,
- ask you for directions or the time,
- point to something spilled on your clothing,
- distract you by creating a disturbance.
A child or even a woman carrying a baby can be a pickpocket. Beware of groups of vagrant children who create a distraction while picking your pocket.
Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.
Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going. When possible, ask directions only from individuals in authority.
Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token on hand.
Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal your need for
help, the police, or a doctor. Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you
may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest
If you are confronted, don't fight back. Give up your valuables. Your money and passport can be replaced, but you cannot.
SAFETY IN YOUR HOTEL
Keep your hotel door locked at all times. Meet visitors in the lobby.
Do not leave money and other valuables in your hotel room while you are out. Use the hotel safe or carry it with you in a money belt.
Let someone know when you expect to return if you are out late at night.
If you are alone, do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside.
SAFETY ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Taxis. Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked cabs.
Trains. Well organized, systematic robbery of passengers on trains along popular tourists routes is a serious problem. It is more common at night and especially on overnight trains.
If you see your way being blocked by a stranger and another person is very close to you from behind, move away. This can happen in the corridor of the train or on the platform or station.
Do not accept food or drink from strangers.
Do not be afraid to alert authorities if you feel threatened in any way. Extra police are often assigned to ride trains on routes where crime is a serious problem.
HOW TO HANDLE MONEY SAFELY
To avoid carrying large amounts of cash, change your travellers' cheques only as you need currency. Countersign travellers' cheques only in front of the person who will cash them.
Do not flash large amounts of money when paying a bill. Make sure your credit card is returned to you after each transaction.
Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money. Do not change money on the black market.
If your possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims and as an explanation of your plight. After reporting missing items to the police, report the loss or theft of:
- travellers' cheques to the nearest agent of the issuing company,
- credit cards to the issuing company,
- airline tickets to the airline or travel agent,
- passport to the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Some new
regulations now apply for carry on luggage.International Airline passengers departing
Passengers leaving
You may still carry on board prescription medicines. Baby products and non-prescription
medicines that you need for the flight are also allowed. Proof of need may be
required.
Please note: these
restrictions do not apply to checked in luggage.
Temperatures in Capital Cities on the days we are visiting, for the last seven years, all in degrees Celsius
2000 32-26
2001 33-27
2002 32-27
2003 31-27
2004 31-25
2005 33-26
2006 27-25
2000 24-12
2001 18-13
2002 21-9
2003 31-15
2004 16-10
2005 21-11
2006 20-13
2000 25-13
2001 15-13
2002 22-9
2003 32-14
2004 15-9
2005 24-12
2006 25-10
2000 22-15
2001 26-13
2002 19-10
2003 16-10
2004 16-7
2005 18-5
2006 23-11
2000 16-11
2001 11-7
2002 25-10
2003 12-9
2004 22-13
2005 16-7
2006 17-10
