Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your time away. Hopefully, they will help you ensure that your holiday is relaxing -without the worries you left behind.
1. First, make sure you have the correct and/or updated documentation for your trip. To enter the U.S. by land, Canadians require a passport. If you are flying, you need a passport. And, if you are a flying into the U.S. on a non-Canadian passport, you now need to fill out a special online visa waiver form before you go.
2. Nothing is worse than being sick on vacation. However, to be sure you can get the help you need, check your health insurance coverage and make sure you're covered for the duration of your stay.
3. Make a list of all your medications and health conditions to take with you. And while you're at it, make sure you have more than enough medication, in case you want to extend your stay.
4. Don't forget to leave a copy of your itinerary information behind with friends or family, so they know how to get in touch with you.
5. Most of all, remember that you're not just leaving the snow and ice, you're leaving your home as well. Make sure you have made the necessary arrangements to keep your house and belongings safe and sound.
6. Check with your home insurer to see if there are any special things you need to do before you leave. The last thing you need is to have something go wrong and not be covered by insurance because you failed to meet the requirements of your policy.
7. And just before you leave, take a walk around your property and make sure all windows and doors are locked and secured, and that your chimney flue is closed. Inside, you'll want to reset your thermostat, empty out the fridge, and unplug any electrical devices and appliances that won't be used while you're gone.
Now, that you're ready to go -- grab your beach towel and sunglasses and have a margarita for me!
Julia Bryan handles communications and public relations for DeNure Tours in Lindsay, Ont.
