International Travel Tips
At Pohlman, our court reporters cover depositions for cases across the nation and the globe. We have extensive experience in international travel, and our team of reporters has gathered a list of important tips for a successful business trip.
- Take time to learn about the country you are traveling to. You need to be aware of the country’s rules of entry. For example, some countries require you to apply for an entry visa on arrival. Also, many countries won’t let anyone enter with a passport that expires in the upcoming six months. It is also extremely important that you check the country’s time zone and accommodate for it when scheduling the business trip’s itinerary. Familiarize yourself with the country’s currency and what a U.S. dollar is worth there. Also, study up on their language and learn basic questions in their language. Downloading a translator app or hiring an actual translator ahead of time may be useful for the trip. It may be helpful to briefly study their culture and read some of its recent news, so that you can make small talk with the people you are meeting with. Being aware of cultural differences and local etiquette can make or break a successful meeting.
- Review your itinerary, and share it with another person. It is extremely important to review your itinerary prior to your departure and to plan ahead. Also, print a hard copy of it to take with you in case your phone/laptop doesn’t work or you have technological issues.
- Be prepared for technology and electronic constraints. Find out if you need to bring electrical adapters, and if so, what kind you need to bring. Also, check if your cell phone provider has an international plan. Find out the costs, and consider texting people back home rather than calling, as texting requires less bandwidth and is more reliable.
- Prepare for jet lag. While jet lag may seem unavoidable, you can help limit its effects by getting enough sleep at least two nights prior to your departure. If your flight is overnight, bring a sleeping mask, earplugs or a neck pillow to help you get some sleep. Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Pack light. A good rule of thumb is to pack less than what you think you need. Research the country’s weather beforehand, so you can plan your outfits accordingly. Then, pack versatile clothing items that you can easily rewear, such as a skirt, dress pants or shoes. Also, if you are checking luggage, pack your essential items in your carry-on, such as a toothbrush, reading glasses, etc. Wear a business appropriate outfit on the plane (or pack it in your carry-on). Then, in the unfortunate case that your luggage gets lost, you can make do. You also may want to check the weight of your luggage beforehand and ensure that you are meeting the weight requirement of your airline.
- Before you depart for the trip, find out who your designated contact is from the firm you are doing business with. If your flight is delayed, you want to be able to let that person know. You can also reach out to that person with any questions you may have about the trip. He or she can also be helpful in travel suggestions, such as nice hotels, restaurants, transport options, etc.
- Plan your downtime. If your trip will last a few days or longer, you will most likely have downtime. To make the most of it, research restaurants and entertainment options near where you are staying. Then, when you have a few hours off, you can enjoy yourself.
- Leave earlier than you need to. This applies to the airport, the client meeting and every other task on your itinerary. Give yourself enough time to get through customs, so you do not miss your flight. Also, leave your hotel early enough in case there is traffic or you get lost.
If you follow these simple tips, your trip should be a success! Are you a lawyer that covers cases across the globe? Our court reporters can cover your depositions and cases, wherever and whenever! If you want to take a break from traveling, we also offer Multi-platform Video Conferencing, so you can attend a deposition from the comfort of your own home or office. Learn more at: http://pohlmanusa.com/our-services/desktop-vc/.
