Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Is it possible to deviate from the group itinerary?

Some trips, especially international destinations, have a tighter schedule. In order to stay on track, we need everyone to follow the itinerary. If free time is allowed, it will be indicated on the trips schedule.

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Can I bring along family or friends if they are not uOttawa alumni?
Yes, you are welcome to bring guests of your choosing.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a valid passport is required of Canadian and U.S. citizens for travel to the countries you will visit. Your passport must remain valid for at least three months beyond your planned return date.

For more information, visit the Foreign Affairs and International Trades Canada or the Service Canada websites.

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What if I become ill while travelling overseas?
If you become ill while travelling in a foreign country and wish to find a hospital and/or English or French speaking doctor, you should: Ask the tour director or the concierge at the hotel in which you are staying for recommendations or ask for the hotel doctor, who may be able to offer assistance. The tour director will provide his or her contact information at the beginning of the trip. Contact the Canadian Embassy or Consulate for their recommendations.

For more information, visit the Foreign Affairs and International Trades Canada website.

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What medical precautions should I take prior to departing on a trip?
It is wise to visit your doctor for a check up prior to a planned vacation overseas. You should also ask the doctor regarding inoculations or immunizations that may be either recommended or required by the country you plan to visit. Carry a completed medical information record with you.

If you take prescription medication, please refer to the question below.

For more information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada or the Foreign Affairs and International Trades Canada websites.

If I take prescription drugs, what should I do?
It is recommended that you take an adequate supply of the prescription medicines you use regularly to last throughout your trip. Carry them in the original containers to identify them as legally obtained drugs and pack them in your carry-on bag.

To guard against complications in the event of loss, carry duplicate prescriptions written for a generic equivalent of any regular medications and, if needed, an extra pair of eyeglasses with your important travel documents.

It is a wise idea to carry telephone numbers of immediate family members or emergency contacts as well as your physician's name, office address and telephone number.

For more information, visit the Foreign Affairs and International Trades Canada.

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I have questions about travel insurance. Where do I go?
The Alumni Association, in partnership with Johnson Inc., offers MEDOC® Travel Insurance. Take advantage of comprehensive year-round travel insurance coverage at preferred rates.

For more information: www.johnson.ca/medoc_mx or 1 866 60 MEDOC.

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What kind of luggage should I bring?
Always try to travel light. If you do, you can move more quickly and will be more likely to have a free hand. You will also be less tired and less likely to set your luggage down, leaving it unattended.
Carry the minimum amount of valuables necessary for your trip and plan a place or places to conceal them. Your passport, cash and credit cards are most secure when locked in a hotel safe. When you have to carry them on your person, you may wish to conceal them in several places rather than putting them all in one wallet or pouch. Avoid hand bags, fanny packs and outside pockets which are easy targets for thieves. Inside pockets and a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are somewhat safer. One of the safest places to carry valuables is in a pouch or money belt worn under your clothing.
Put your name, address and telephone numbers inside and outside of each piece of luggage. Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity or nationality and if possible, lock your luggage.

Also, carry an extra set of luggage keys, perhaps in the care of your travelling companion. If your luggage does not have a built-in lock system, invest in a small padlock and a luggage strap.

For more information, visit the Transport Canada or Foreign Affairs and International Trades Canada websites.

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How should I dress?
Multiple use is the key, and every item you pack should mix and match in several different ways or serve more than one purpose. For example, take a robe that can double up as a beach cover-up. If you can wear something only once or in only one way, leave it at home.

Avoid bulky or heavy garments that occupy a lot of luggage space. Take clothes that can be worn in layers and added or removed as the weather changes. Layers trap air and insulate; a T-shirt or turtle neck under a shirt, topped by a sweater, then a blazer and a lined raincoat are very warm.

Pack a comfortable pair of weather-proof walking shoes. Preferably, a pair that has been well broken-in as opposed to a new, stiff pair that may cause blisters or abrasions.

Most importantly, all your travel clothes and especially your shoes should be previously worn and comfortable. Shoes should have low, wide heels and be well broken-in. Try everything on before departure day to ensure that all coordinate, fit well, and are in good repair.

It is suggested that you not bring or pack any expensive or sentimental jewellery. Opt instead for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that these items can't be lost or stolen because they're safe at home!

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What documents should I bring with me?
Make a detailed list of all items that you've packed. Make two photocopies. Leave one copy at home with a relative or neighbour; take the other with you in your carry-on bag with your important travel documents.

Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one at home with a relative or neighbour; take the other with you in your carry-on bag with your important travel documents.

Most likely, you may not need to refer to these photocopies again during your trip. However, in the event or a lost or stolen bag or passport, the few minutes you spend on this preparatory effort will pay off in perhaps hours saved if you need to fill out a lost baggage report of file for a passport replacement.

Place a photocopy of your itinerary and a card with your name and address, both in North America and where you're staying abroad, INSIDE your luggage.

Bring travelers checks and one or two major credit cards instead of cash.

For more information, visit the Foreign Affairs and International Trades Canada website.

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