Confessions of a Social Climber

Who doesn’t want to take a vacation? I’m not sure anybody will turn down an invitation to a luxury vacation in Bali or a ski weekend in Aspen. However before you pack your bags, ask yourself these questions. If you answered positively to all 10, then it’s time to take that holiday vacation.

• Did I save enough to go on a trip?

The first and most fundamental question to ask yourself when going on a trip – really, if you don’t have enough money, how can you go on a trip? Forget backpacking because in reality, you’d still need money. With the current threat of recession affecting most major cities in the world, fares and lodging don’t come cheap.

• Am I bringing the necessary clothes?

You maybe a tourist but you don’t have to look like one! Nor should you bring those haute couture items you oh-so-treasure. Lightweight, breathable clothes (preferably made from cotton) for summer, and enough thick clothes for the cooler seasons. Know what season it is, and you’ll be able to strategize what clothes to bring.

• Do I have the necessary documents?

Valid Passport. Visa. Credit/Debit cards (just in case you get too happy shopping and lose cash). Airline tickets. Printed itinerary. Health Documentation. Emergency Information (in case you lose you way after a drunken escapade, anybody who finds you will know who to call). Insurance. Traveler’s checks. Guide books. Personal Identification. Provide a close relative or friend with a photocopy of your documents so in case of loss, you can ask them fax it to you.

• Did I get my shots?

Many destinations offer not only the best food, entertainment & adventure you can find, but also the worst diseases (remember SARS? How about Yellow Fever?). Get your vaccine around 4-6 weeks before your trip and you’ll enjoy your trip even more knowing you’re safe from local diseases.

• What gadgets will I have on board?

Load up your psp with games so you won’t get bored in the plane. Leave anything you equate with work. Most people forget the most important gadget during traveling - the camera! (don’t fall victim to resorts who charge exorbitant fees for disposable ones) What better way to remember your trip than by taking a picture of you getting kissed by that Camel in Dubai?

• Did I bring a book?

If your plane departs from the airport at a later time, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a book while waiting. Brush up on your foreign language by reading a foreign language book. Time well spent!

• Did I bring my toiletries?

Would you want to scare the natives with your obviously-haven’t-slept, haven’t-shaved, haven’t-combed-my-hair-look?? Freshen up before you reach your destination. For airports that don’t allow liquids in the check in luggage, toiletries are provided in flight.

• Have I told my boss/college professor mentor/landlady about my trip?

Would you really want to lose your job/fail a subject just because you “forgot” to inform your boss/professor of your trip? Your landlady on the other hand should be informed you’re leaving for a while lest you’re reported missing. She can also collect your mail and check on your place from time to time.

• Did I pack medicine?

You can never tell if you’ll be allergic to a certain item in the food, or you’ll get sick from over-exhaustion. Be the girl/boy scout your mom has always been proud of! Bring Aspirin or analgesic, mosquito repellent and anti-diarrhea.

• Are you truly ready to leave the hustle and bustle of your life (albeit temporarily) and experience an adventure of a lifetime?

Ready. Set. Off to holiday you GO!