LEARN ABOUT THE COUNTRIES THAT YOU PLAN TO VISIT

Preparation is half the battle! The following suggestions and sources may be useful:

"?¢ Read as much as possible about the countries in which you plan to travel, especially about the nation's history, culture, customs and politics. Such information can be found in most libraries, bookstores and tourist bureaus.

"?¢ Although English is spoken in many countries, learning even a bit of the language of the country you are heading to is a great idea. People love the fact that visitors can speak even a few words.

"?¢ Travel agencies stock a large number of brochures and tourist information about many different countries.

"?¢ Even airlines can supply travel brochures about the countries they fly to. As well many countries have tourist information offices in some main cities in the United States where travel brochures and even maps can be obtained.

"?¢ Most foreign embassies or consulates in the US provide up-to-date information on their countries. Addresses and telephone numbers of the embassies of foreign governments are listed in the Congressional Directory, available at most public libraries.

Check out www.state.gov for information about Foreign Consular Offices in the United States.