When leaving home for a vacation, most people experience a slight nervousness. “What if something goes wrong?” they ask themselves. Usually, it’s a concern that’s quickly forgotten when they reach their final destination. However, for an unlucky few, sometimes vacations do go “south”. Here are some situations you may run into while abroad, and how to make the best of them.

Poor Weather

When most people travel, they generally hope that it’s going to be sunny and warm; or at least that it won’t be storming. But, it’s always a possibility, even if the locale hasn’t seen rain in 100 years. If you’re on a sightseeing trip and the rain isn’t too heavy, don a poncho and check out the landmarks anyway. The unique atmosphere may lend itself to a stronger memory! Otherwise, look for indoor attractions. Are there any museums in the area? Sometimes architecture is just as remarkable as nature.

If you took a trip to a tropical resort specifically to enjoy beautiful weather, the situation may seem more hopeless. Fear not¾there’s a solution. Unless you bought out the entire resort for yourself, the other travelers will be just as forlorn when looking out the windows. Nothing builds camaraderie quite like shared misery. Strike up a conversation about the weather and ask them where they’re from. Before you know it, everybody will be painting the hotel red.

Illness or Injury

Unlike unfavorable weather, illness or injury has a better chance of putting the kibosh on a good time. The most important thing to do in this situation is to stay calm and seek adequate medical care. If you’re in unfamiliar territory, the staff at your accommodation will likely be able to help you get what you need. Make sure you keep the hotel phone number handy, just in case something happens while you’re away.

Once your medical situation has been dealt with, anyone along for the trip who isn’t sneezing or bleeding might spend some time trying to recoup costs from upcoming activities on your itinerary. If you had any tours booked or nights left at the hotel, you may be able to get a refund or partial refund, especially if you explain the situation.

Losing Your Luggage

Getting separated from your bags is a huge bummer. If you made a few connecting flights and your stuff never turns up on the carousel when you finally arrive, it might seem like a bad omen for the rest of your trip. Don’t worry¾it’s probably just delayed. Either way, immediately file a claim that your baggage was lost so that you start a paper trail. If you’re traveling within the U.S., you should also know that the Department of Transportation requires airlines to compensate you for their contents up to $3,300.

Robbery

When traveling, do your best to keep a low profile. Don’t flash money or expensive purchases around. Also, try to avoid secluded areas, especially at night. The best way to deal with robbery is to prevent it. If it can’t be avoided, comply with any requests in order to avoid violence. Your wallet is not more important than your life.

Once you’re back to safety, report the robbery to local police. They may be able to help you get in contact with your embassy in order to replace any important documents that were stolen, like your passport.

More than likely, you won’t have to deal with any of these troubles. However, it’s always better to be prepared!

Original Source: http://lmcu.frc.finresourcecenter.com/Travel_78930.html?article_id=2385