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	Obtaining a Passport or Visas

Chances are, you will need a passport for your holiday. If you don't have one, leave plenty of time to get one because you don't want this type of last minute hassle. In Canada, you can access the Canadian Passport Office website at www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/passport/menu.asp. In the US, you can access the American Passport Service website at http://travel.state.gov/passport_services.html. To locate embassies worldwide, check out EmbassyWeb.com at: www.embpage.org. Keep in mind that EmbassyWeb.com is not an official government site, but functions to offer general, contact information. For Visa information, it is recommended that you contact the official government site of your destination country, or talk to your local travel agent.


	National Tourism Offices

You might want to look at the National Tourism Office for your holiday destination. That way, you can find additional information about that destination, including facts regarding culture, customs, and national holidays. A great website to locate National Tourism Offices around the world is the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory site, located at: www.towd.com


	Medical Information

Using the latest technologies, San Francisco based company, MedicinePlanet, offers on-line healthcare information and service. The company provides tailored information for women, families, seniors, students, as well as special needs and business travelers. Information can also be obtained regarding immunizations, diseases and safety alerts. Check out the website at: www.travelhealth.com/home/
The American-based Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers helpful information about health issues in specific destinations. To view this site, go to: www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm


	Travel Insurance

It is important to make sure you have travel insurance before you go. You may be covered under existing policies, but always check before you travel. There are many travel insurance companies, talk to your local travel agent for one that is best for you and your needs.


	Travel Advisories

Many countries issue travel advisories for their citizens. The website for the Canada Travel Information and Advisory Reports is: http://voyage.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/destinations/menu_e.htm. The American Travel Warnings and Consular Information is located at: http://travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about your destination, talk to your travel agent.


	International Driving Permits

In order to drive in other countries, it may be necessary to obtain an International Driver's Permit. In some countries, your foreign driver's license is valid for a certain number of days, and then becomes invalid. For information about International licenses, contact your national Automobile Association. In Canada, contact CAA (the Canadian Automobile Association), and in the US, contact AAA (the American Automobile Association). Otherwise, talk to your local travel agent to find out if you will require an International Driving Permit.


	Travel Maps

Maps are a great way to get acquainted with a country and its cities. Refer to an atlas or check on-line for maps and quick facts about your destination.


	Newspapers

Reading local news is one great way to find information about a destination. By reading newspapers of your destination, you can understand the issues of that country, including daily occurrences, politics, business, sports, etc. Check newspaper shops or surf on-line to see what newspapers are available.


	Travel Books

Many people buy travel guidebooks to take with them on their vacations. There are different guides you can purchase that cater to different types of travel. Depending on the type of travel you are doing, look around in your local bookstore or check on-line.


	Travel Magazines and E-zines

Depending on the type of travel you are doing, you may choose to peruse different travel magazines, or even travel e-zines. Take a look at your local bookstore or on-line for travel magazines or e-zines.