On the Ground--Hotel Bound

Hotel Bound—Some hotels offer shuttle service from the airport that can be arranged in advance.  Remember that some shuttles service several hotels, meaning several stops to drop off passengers.  It may be easier and faster to catch a cab or Uber/Lyft.  Never accept a ride from a stranger and wait in the proper queue where there is usually an airport official to see you properly into the cab and translate your hotel and meeting destination.

On the Ground--Dealing with Jet Lag

Dealing with Jet Lag—Years of long-haul travel to Asia have given me considerable experience with jet lag both ways.  Take jet lag seriously, and give yourself a least a day to recover before you go into meetings or events in another country, especially long-haul, east-to-west travel.  

So far, the only remedy I have found helpful is a little champagne before bedtime.  If a bar is handy you might also consider a cocktail called a "French 75"--champaigne or cognac with a shot of gin.  The alcohol helps the head and the bubbles aid the tummy.  A warm bath will help you relax as well as provide rehydration through the skin.  Always drink plenty of water especially in countries with dry heat--you may not notice it immediately that you are becoming dehydrated.

On the Ground--Show Them the Jacksons (or International Equivalent)

Show Them the Jacksons (or International Equivalent)—People fuss a lot about travelers’ checks and credit cards when traveling.  In many places, travelers’ checks simply aren’t accepted or are accepted with great hassle.  Credit cards or ATM cards typically carry a fee for withdrawals.  Some banks and credit card companies offer an international travel card with no transaction charge.  Do research ahead of time about the prevalence of ATM's at the destination.  

Against conventional wisdom, I feel it is important to carry a healthy amount of cash—preferably in $20 denominations or international equivalent.  Cash is still king in most places, and currency still has considerable clout around the world.  I advise a mix of credit and cash.  You should have both a credit card and an ATM card.  

In countries that don’t accept your currency, I recommend exchanging money at a local bank if possible, followed by a local exchange shop with good exchange rates.  I have found the hotel and airport exchange shops to have the highest exchange rates, but the airport shops are safe and handy in a hurry.  Shop around for the best rates, but don’t let the search take time away from your vacation!

Use pickpocket-proof clothing and bags.  And don’t overlook the small safe now common in most hotel rooms.  Finally, while it may be cheaper or more fun to use the subway (such as Tokyo's elaborate subway system), a cab or Uber/Lyft may be safer.

On the Ground--(Don't) Dress the Part

(Don’t) Dress the Part—Nothing says Westerner tourist like brand names, sports gear, and tennis shoes, as well as expensive jewelry, pocket electronics, or sunglasses.  Wearing shorts is considered gauche or juvenile in some countries, even in those with hot climates.  I have found a pair of boots and a dark-colored shirt tucked into a pair of jeans to be sufficiently generic, anonymous, and possibly stylish in some quarters.  If walking a lot, some companies, e.g., Clark's, make surprisingly comfortable ankle boots.  Some bucket list destinations like Machu Picchu and the Great Wall can be fairly rigorous, so be prepared to hike. Be conscious of your movements and body language--nothing says "tourist" like someone walking and at the same time head tilted back and gawking at street shops, architecture, or skylines.      

On the Ground--A Little Lingua Franca Goes a Long Way

A Little Lingua Franca Goes a Long Way—You need not take an immersion course in a local language before traveling there.  There is nothing more distressing or funny to many hosts than a traveler butchering their language in a strange accent.  Many of them were forced to take years of English in school and will jump at the chance to practice with you.  However, common etiquette is a worldwide standard, and all hosts will appreciate your use of a few phrases of greeting, gratitude, and thanks.  Body language is very important in overcoming cultural differences.  A relaxed face and body movements are universal, but interpretations of smiling and laughter can differ culturally and may make you seem disingenuous.

On the Ground--Being a Good Guest

Being a Good Guest—Negotiating for great deals is a fun part of travel and expected in many countries.  However, haggle too hard and you will soon be persona non grata in the marketplace.  Spend too much and you will become a potential mark.  If you learn to strike a balance between spendthrift and sucker, you will have friends in the host community for many years to come.  Think about how much you spend in an average weekend back home.  I always like to pay a little extra for those unique, one-of-a-kind items, e.g., crafts, paintings, and sculptures (provided it will fit into your luggage or that it can be shipped), that will remind you of a great trip and enliven your home décor for many years to come.  

However, the art need not be expensive.  For example, I bought a couple of inexpensive Krama scarves during my trip to Angkor Wat and when I got home I simply put them in a hanging shadow box with pictures of me wearing them.

On the Ground--Social Studies

Social Studies—Travelers often overemphasize spoken language and underestimate body language:  they should know more about a country’s customs, etiquette, and protocol.  Check gifts for appropriate color and value.  Respect locals when taking pictures—politely ask for their permission to do so and be prepared to offer a small tip.  Finally, respect local laws, as penalties for relatively minor infractions back home mean major trouble abroad.  It is my experience that most travelers who get into trouble abroad are doing things or saying things they ought not be doing or saying.  And remember, “if you get into trouble” (actual language once in the U.S. passport), contact your local embassy.