Finding an apartment and taking care of travel business
We were almost scammed. In the end, we doubt it would have happened, but so close.
Groups on Facebook have been useful for research and travel. And when we joined the Sicily long-term rental group, we thought for sure we’d find an affordable rental here rather than booking through Airbnb or VRBO. A lady responded to our request. Her property was ideal; perfect location with balcony overlooking the harbor at a great price. She even volunteered to lower the booking price if we went directly through her rather than Airbnb. First red flag.
After two trips to the bank, attempting to wire a deposit with the sketchy financial information she provided, we backed out. Sitting with the bank representative with the lady on WhatsApp and me asking for specific routing information, nothing made sense. Frustration proved to be my friend. We had booked private rentals in Ireland and Belgium with no problem. Why should this be any different? My gut told me to walk away. So we did. We secured our booking through Airbnb, providing us protection.
Thank you United Community Bank for smelling the fishy situation.
Protect your money. Do your research on lodging. Read the reviews.
Take care of your travel business early.
Always print your documents. I know, I know. Technology takes care of everything, but when the power goes out, the cell service is down and you don’t have the documents you need, panic sets in. Don’t let it win.
I prepare a folder (placed in my laptop sleeve) that will always be with me. I also provide this to someone at home who will know where we are at all times. It’s also a good idea to screen shot each page and text or email it to your phone.
📍 Passport: Remember it must be valid six months prior and six months beyond your travel date. Print a copy of your passport and place one in each piece of luggage, including your purse.
📍Visas: For a stay of beyond 90 days, a long-term visa is needed. Apply at the consulate about four months prior to travel. And, once you have it, photocopy it as well and place in all bags.
📍ETIAS: Pre-travel authorization to visit EU countries. You can complete online and I always print the email for documentation that I have complied.
📍International Driving Permit: Go online to AAA and it’s easy. It will walk you through the steps and within a week, you’ll have the document in hand. Bring your US driver’s license as well. Honestly, we’ve never been asked for the permit, but we always have one when we rent a vehicle.
📍Travel Insurance: When we were younger, we didn’t have travel insurance. Now, we do. We have insurance through Allianz. Make sure your policy covers pre-existing conditions. Carry a printed copy of the policy (or card) with you. I keep mine in my passport case. I also carry all my active insurance cards for the US.
📍Advance Directive: For older travelers and for those staying for long periods of time, have a trusted person at home that can take care of serious problems. Carry a copy with you as well as emergency contact information.
📍Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard recommended. Have two different networks. Both should have no foreign transaction fees. NEVER pay in US currency when charging abroad. Always use the local currency for better rates.
📍Itinerary: We use TripIt which electronically lists all our reservations, confirmation numbers and everything we need to know about our stay. We print it once everything is finalized and carry it along.
📍Rental Agreement and Proof of Departure: We have our Airbnb reservation printed with the required location for customs’ agents. You must have proof of where you’re staying and when and how you plan to leave the country.
