• As more and more exhibitors hit the road – out of country – you may hit an all time stress level in all aspects of international exhibit and event planning. Foreign travel can be overwhelming and daunting so having a large percentage of our account executives traveling all over the map – here are some of their thoughts. Remember to use this website, www.state.gov/travel for the latest travel information. You will also find information for the countries that require visas along with passports, emergency information, and many travel resources.

• Make a photocopy of your passport to leave in a hotel safe deposit box. Also always leave a copy at home – for your hysterical call to your husband or wife.

• Don’t use hand signals overseas as they often mean something else in another culture. There are also differences in body language.

• Before leaving for the airport check current rules regarding carry-on baggage for airports and airlines. Make this call a week ahead – not the night before!

• Take electrical plug adapters purchased in your home country as searching for these once you land can be horrific. When all else fails, at least purchase in the airport.

• Learn a few important words in the language for the country you are traveling to such as please, thank you, counting in small numbers (one, two, three). Invest in a pocket size translation guide, particularly for use in restaurants.

• Contact your bank to verify your ATM card will work overseas. Many banks charge an ATM transaction fee but it is convenient and the exchange rate is often better than changing currency or cashing travelers checks.

• Don’t use hand signals overseas as they often mean something else in another culture. There are also differences in body language.