What ID to take on a trip?

One of my biggest fears is losing my ID.  Then I worry if I will remember what to cancel should I be unfortunate enough to have it stolen or misplaced.

1. Consider leaving most of it behind.  We all have too many cards, right?  Do you really need that gas credit card this trip if you are flying?  Take only 1 or 2 picture ID, a credit card and bank card, health care and passport if you are going out of country.
2. I photocopy some of my ID, like my health card and my SIN number.  That way I always have the original and it saves  on wear of the card. (they are expensive to replace!)
3. Split up your credit cards from your cash, and your passport from your other ID.  That way if you lose one set, you still have other ID and access to money.  I put one set in my camera case, and the other in my purse or backpack.  
4. If you are leaving items in your room, use the hotel safe. If there isn’t one in your room then find a good hiding spot.  Just don’t forget to take them with you when you check out!
5. Finally, have a sheet of paper in your suitcase that itemizes your ID and where to phone to cancel your cards if they are stolen.  Then relax and enjoy your trip!

Rammed Earth Makes an Impression

The best thing about living in a resort town is the amazing amount of material there is to write about.  

The rammed earth wall at the visitor center at Nk’Mip Cultural Center in Osoyoos, BC, Canada always intrigues me.  The construction method is actually a revival of an age-old method used in regions where wood is scarce.  This structure rises over 18 feet high and curves over 262 feet and involves mixing concrete and soil to create beautiful natural colours that blend so well with the desert environment.  So unique is the Desert Centre that is was written up in the Architectural Digest.  

The First Nations invites visitors through these unique  doors into the theatre and exhibits that are housed behind the wall.  Beyond the displays of snakes and native history, the desert landscape opens to a walking trail with interpretive signs that allow you glimpses of the native habitat and wildlife.  Don’t worry, the guides do a regular walk to clear the path of any resident rattlesnakes who may decide to slither by!

Canadian Rights for Air Travellers

So many flight cancellations and airline closures makes a person worry about the traveller’s rights.

If you are a Canadian, you may be interested in knowing:

•  Airlines must make efforts to inform passengers of delays and changes 
• Travellers have a right to the flight, and the airline must provide the passengers another flight, or a refund
• When luggage does not arrive on the same flight, the airline must take steps to deliver it to the hotel asap, and will keep the person informed of status
• Carriers must make the terms and conditions of travel easily available to passengers

If you, as a passenger, feel that you have a complaint, or that the airline has not met the standard you expected, you may seek corrective measures.  If the airline does not address your concerns, you have the right to contact the Canadian Transportation Agency at          1-888-222-2592.

For more information on the Code or Conduct of Canadian Airlines you can visit http://www.tc.gc.ca/air/menu.htm

Great Way to Speak the Language-

I came across this great tip and wanted to pass it on.  If you are like me and find it challenging to learn a foreign language there is a neat way to communicate.

Fresh vegetables

 

 Take along a little “scrapbook” filled with pictures of simple items you may want help to find.  For example:  a taxi or bus, a bowl of rice, a cup of coffee, a bottle  of water, glass of wine, whatever.

Simply show the picture and shrug your shoulders, and someone will read your bewildered look and interpret your needs!