Travel

Pismo Beach, California

Chongqing, China

Leshan, China

Seoul, South Korea

Ilsan, South Korea

Osaka, Japan

Ogori, Japan

Kumamoto, Japan

Bangkok, Thailand

What do you think?

• Do you like travelling? Where have you gone?• Where are some good travel places in China?

Why?• Have you ever traveled abroad? Where did

you go? When? What was it like?• Describe your best trip. How about your

worst trip?

Passport

The first thing you will need for international travel is a passport. To be clear, a passport is a document issued by your own country, and it serves as your identification around the world.

Visa

The next thing you will need is a visa. A visa is a travel document issued by the country you will be visiting, not your own. A visa goes on one of the empty pages of your passport, so if you don’t have any empty pages left, you can’t travel anywhere!

Note: “Visa” is also the name of a credit card company in many English speaking countries, so be clear about what you’re talking about.

Visa-Free Travel

Because of international treaties, many countries let citizens of other countries visit for a short time without having to arrange a visa first. Usually visitors may stay for a period around 90 days.

Visa Requirements for PRC Citizens

Phrase Book

Another essential item for travelers to a new country, is a phrase book. A phrase book is a short guide to a foreign language. Phrase books are usually feature essential phrases divided by theme, as well as a short dictionary.

Of course, the ability to speak an international language such as English, French, Chinese, or Spanish is even better than a phrase book.

Travel SafetyWhen traveling to an unfamiliar place, it is important to look after your belongings and take measures to protect yourself.

In crowded areas such as airports, train stations, and markets, it is very important to watch out for pickpockets.

At other times, particularly late at night, it is important to watch out for muggers. While pickpockets only want your valuables, muggers can actually threaten your life.

Tips for avoiding theft

•Think about getting a money belt.

•Clothing With Secret Pockets

•Don't Look Like a Tourist

•Don't Put All Your Money In One Place

•Always lock your luggage

•First Floor Rooms Are Not the Most Secure

Tips For Choosing Your Travel Buddy

Planning a trip across the globe is one thing, but picking the right travel buddy can get a bit tricky. The process is sort of similar to finding a roommate, except that instead of seeing each other for a few hours each day, you will be spending every waking moment together.

•Compare Schedules•Consider Finances•Morning vs. Night Person•Single vs. Unavailable•Determine Travel Goals

What do you think?

• What kind of interesting people have you met while travelling?

• What kind of travel buddy would you like to go on a trip with?

• Are you concerned about pickpockets or muggers in this city? Why or why not?

• What do you do to protect your belongings when traveling?