Final ticks on the 'To Do' List

With just ten days to go, I’m counting down the sleeps. My ‘to-do’ list is almost completed but there are a final few items to go.

The Australian dollar plunged to below 70 cents this week, which does not auger well for travelling out of Australia. However, we had anticipated a drop so locked our currencies in while the exchange rate was higher. We have enough cash to cover those few things we haven’t paid for up front, including food, fuel and other costs, so don’t anticipate having to access too much more while we are away, barring unforeseen expenses of course.

I remember being a bit put out at the VAT (Value Added Tax, similar to our GST) added to purchases when I was last travelling in Europe. The tax on food, transport and accommodation (unless it’s a business trip) can’t be claimed back, but for souvenirs and gifts, it is possible, and worth it for larger items when you consider that the tax ranges from 15 to 25 percent. I doubt that I will be buying anything of great value, but if I did, I would certainly consider applying for a refund. If you want to know more, here is a site that explains how to obtain a refund - https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/vat-refunds Good luck!

On a lighter note, I’ve carried out my usual ‘test pack’ and managed to fit everything into a case that measures 45x35x20cm with room left over. I’m considering finding a small, fold-up soft bag to pop into my case. This will do for our return, when we may have a few more items to pack. I do like to travel light, considering that it will be me who has to lug and throw the bag around.

I have copied of all my documents, cards, passport and so on, and have left one copy here at home, and have placed a copy into my bag. The originals will be with me, and I also have digital copies on my iPad and also on USB. I’ve made sure that family have a copy of our itinerary, and that they know how to contact us if necessary.

Because there will be someone in my home while I’m away, I don’t have to worry about my mail. But there will be bills arriving while I’m away, so I need to organise payment for these. It wouldn’t do to arrive home to a house with no power and insurances expired!

I also need to notify my bank of my plans. Knowing where I will be and the dates I will be in particular countries will help them keep my banking secure.  I’ll also give them my Travel SIM mobile number, in case there is a problem and they need to contact me.