At this time of year there are a couple of things to mention. First, I'm thankful to be able to share something I love with such an amazing group of young people. Parents, thank you for providing such an amazing opportunity for your children. Travelers, thank you for your enthusiasm, curiosity and positive attitude. And thanks for being so nice to Katie & me!
Next, it's obvious that it's a busy time of year. Turn out to the last meeting was very low. Here are the important things... Get an appointment for a physical and dental check up for the traveler soon. You want to have both done before May. That way if there are any complications they can be resolved before we go. While you're with the doctor ask for a prescription for a general/broad spectrum antibiotic. I like Zithromax (Z-pack) because it works well and you only need 3-5 pills, but your doctor will know what works best for you. The travelers will need to pack the actual medicine with them when we go. Also, remember there is no meeting in December.
Finally, It's that week when people start their holiday shopping. Here are a few ideas for your travelers...
1- A suitcase. Don't worry about getting the most expensive model. We'll beat them up pretty well. I recommend a 24" but no more than a 26-27". More than that is too bulky and heavy. Beware of the 4 wheel spinners. They are great for regular travel but make navigating brick and cobbled streets of Europe a challenge. Rolling duffel bags are also a great option. The two section duffels work best. Check the weight of either choice. Depending on the airline, total weight allowed for a packed bag is between 35-50 lbs. Don't waste it all on a heavy bag. Most important, make sure whatever you get can be locked/secured.
2- A camera. Again, get something that works well but doesn't kill you if it gets stolen or broken. Consider size, weight and lens. Nothing too big & bulky but something with a decent zoom. Nikkon is making some great new models. Also think about how to power it up. If it's rechargable consider a second battery pack so when one loses power they can pop in the other one.
3- Watch. These days most kids use their cell phone to keep time but we recommend leaving the cell home. The travelers need to be able to be prompt on a tight schedule.
4- Toiletry Kit Bag. These are convenient as the kids share a hotel room with one bath. It allows them to just grab the kit and head to the shower. Get one that is lined so that if the shampoo bursts during the flight, everything else in the suitcase isn't ruined. LandsEnd.com sells some great ones.
5- Travel alarm. The hotel wake up call doesn't always come. It's best if the travelers don't have to rely on them.
6- Adapters/converter. These allow the kids to power up. The outlets in Europe are different shapes. Adapters adjust our plugs to fit. Europe also uses 220 volt vs. our 110 volt. The converter keeps the extra power from burning out our appliances. Check your gadgets. These days many are dual voltage and you won't need the converter.
7- MP3 stuff. If your kid has an i-Pod/i-Pad or other type MP3, get a wall charger. They won't have a computer to use to charge up. Another idea - noise reducing ear phones. This minimizes the background hum of the plane and bus (or roommates). Most types are rather big but I have a great pair of Sony's that are ear buds.
8- Exchanged money. How about some Euros and/or Pounds as a stocking stuffer? The main branch of Zions or Wells Fargo Bank will exchange. Your bank might have some at their main branch as well or can order some for you. You can also order on line but beware of service fees!
9- A Day Bag. The travelers will need a carry-on that doubles as a day pack. It has to be big enough for all their flight needs and comfortable/compact enough to carry their wallet, sunglasses, water bottle, maps, ect. around for the day. A backpack works great!
A lot of these things can be found around the house. It isn't necessary to buy everything new. Most of what you don't have can be found around town. I get my adapters at OfficeMax or Walmart. The iPod wall charger from Target. I bought my kids duffel at Costco & a CoolPix camera at Sam's Club. Shapiro's and Brookstone (both at Fashion Place Mall) are fun travel stores. They run a bit pricey but have cool gadgets. Some online ideas - LandsEnd.com, Magellans.com, REI.com, Overstock.com. If you have other great suggestions let me know & I'll get the information out to everyone else.
Last thing. Use the days off from school between now and New Years to take care of getting a passport. Time is flying. 205 days to departure!
