In the latest issue of
National Geographic Traveler there was a list of tips one should use when driving in a foreign country. The list is below along with a comment by your humble correspondent.
- Avoid driving in places where you don't speak the language or can't understand the alphabet. I can't imagine driving in China and asking for directions to the nearest Chinese restaurant.
- Drive during the day if possible. It's difficult driving at night in an unfamiliar area in the States, let alone in a foreign country with narrow roads and live-stock roaming the streets. On a similar note...last month when traversing on the back roads of Montana around 1 A.M....I came within inches of hitting a cow. Its a good story...email me if you want to know more.
- Ask for a car with GPS navigation. Make sure your navigation device speaks American.
- Don't be an easy target. Request that stickers or other indications that your vehicle is a rental to be removed. While visiting Hawaii, a friend of mine belongings (including cash and check book) were stolen when he "secured" his items in the trunk of his rental car. The police told him that is the worst place to place items as it is easier to break into the trunk than locked doors of a vehicle.
- Bring car seats for your children. Laws for car seats are different in each country. Don't assume the country you are visiting will have a car seat that fits the standards that you want for your youngster.
- If driving your own car south of the border, purchase Mexican insurance. Almost every major U.S. insurance policy specifically excludes coverage in Mexico. This should be a red flag for everyone. Traveler suggests purchasing a day-to-day policy on-line or in Mexico?? No Thank You. If I ever drive to the border. I will leave my car on the American side and either hire a driver or rent a car with rental car insurance.
- ...And my own personal suggestion when driving over-seas...Avoid "round-a-bouts". Whatever you think of American round-a-bouts...In Europe they are much worse, its like Thunderdome...there are no rules!
