Americans Abroad.

• Author: Jaferian, Warren
• Position: TRAVEL WISE

I WENT ALMOST A YEAR before I began traveling again-a hiatus I never imagined taking between international trips until the pandemic pulled the emergency brake on nonessential air travel. When you are ready to fly again, whether for business or pleasure, it is best to review the basics to ensure a stress-free return to the skies:

Shopping for the best fares. Airline prices are higher for two reasons. First, there is a significant amount of pent-up demand for travel--people want to travel and spread their wings after dealing with cabin fever. Second, the loss of business and unexpected COVTD-related expenses need to be recouped. Check with multiple carriers and travel sites before booking.

COVID-19. Travelers should do their research when traveling abroad, or even within the U.S. For global travel, vaccines are less widely available abroad than in the U.S. Americans should be cognizant that freedom of movement, without masks, is not the norm overseas. While Europe is opening to American tourists and other nonessential travelers, many restaurants, hotels, and other tourism-dependent locations may be shuttered, some permanently. Without a doubt, people should be vaccinated before going abroad for the best and most unencumbered travel experience. Expect social distancing and masking.

While we are in a better position than last year, with around 60% of Americans being vaccinated to some degree, the rest of the world does not have the same access to vaccines. With new variants appearing, despite highly efficacious vaccines, coron-avirus remains a threat.

Travelers should be sure to carry their CDC COVID-19 vaccination card with them, along with their passport. Also, keep photos of your vaccination record and passport, in the event either or both are lost.

Be sure your health insurance is up to date and inquire whether your policy has global coverage. If not, purchase an international insurance policy as a rider to your existing policy. We purchase insurance for all of our students studying abroad for the duration of their stay. Such policies can be purchased for a few days or a few months and are worth every penny--and are not expensive. Benefits include emergency hotlines that pinpoint your location and direct you to hospitals, clinics, and other health care providers, including English-speaking practitioners.

Pre-travel financial prep. If you are traveling out of state, or out of the country, call your bank and credit card companies. Share your...