Statistics show that 60% of Canadians have a passport, compared to only 36% of our U.S. neighbours to the south and under 75% of the Brits and Aussies who are known for their international travel. There is more to this valuable little book than meets the eye. The way we use and view passports today has changed from years gone by when it was “nice” to have one just in case you had to prove your whereabouts or you forgot your driver’s license at the border. Now it is a powerful document loaded with information.Explore

Air Canada now has an application for excess baggage. Not a reason to add in a few extra pairs of shoes, the application process is for humanitarian purposes, including the transportation of live rescue cats and dogs.Explore

Security is always changing, so read details online about the particular airport you are flying into or out of to insure you know what to expect. I was in too many airports to mention this past summer, and one airport in particular asked me to remove my watch…which was a first for me. Chatting with a woman in the same line, she said she’d been asked her to remove her earrings. As I travel often, I wear either open-toed sandals or slip on shoes and minimal jewellery; all my liquids are carefully measured in a clear zip lock bag.Explore

Since the dawn of time, man has been fascinated by the sea. “What lays beyond” has driven mankind to explore new horizons – literally and figuratively. With 71% of the earth’s surface covered by water is it any wonder humans are passionate about sailing.Explore

We’ve all heard the horror stories about travellers who thought they had the right coverage, but then find out too late about the exclusion clauses. Understanding travel insurance is difficult and interpretation is always present in these lengthy legally binding policies. Hopefully I can shed some light on what to look for so you never get caught. This is one time you will want to read the fine print.Explore

How can someone sum up in a short column all the things they need to know to stay safe travelling in this unpredictable world? Parents do it all the time with their children and good travel agents do it all the time with their clients. Educate, advise, remind and set by example.Explore

A Cruise for Every Budget

Cruises used to be for the wealthy, but now there are cruises to suit every type of traveler and budget. Explore