On money, etc.

So you are going out of the country, and you don't want to carry much cash. Makes sense. So bring some to exchange when we get there, but also check with your bank and find out the following things:

• Does your bank participate in any of the major ATM networks, especially ones that include some Serbian banks?
• How much does your bank charge for cash withdrawals in other countries? Don't forget to also see if there is a foreign transaction fee above and beyond the ATM fees.
• If you are bringing a credit card, make sure that you have called your card company and given them your travel dates. Make sure to tell them we will be traveling via Munich, in case you want to use a card in the airport.
• Also, find out what the foreign transaction fees are for the credit card.
• You will NOT want to do cash withdrawals with a credit card, but you may be able to use an ATM card with the Visa or MC logo in some places. Mostly, you'll need cash -- hence finding out about how much cash you can access directly from your account, and what fees will be charged.

And in the meantime, here's a picture of the van we'll be traveling in:

And...just a reminder: Check your baggage limits, pack as lightly as possible with layers, bring any valuables (if you must) and prescription meds in your carry-on (a spare pair of underwear and an extra t-shirt is also not a bad idea), and make sure you obey the TSA restrictions on traveling with liquids, ointments, gels, creams, and even mascara/lipstick. If it can't fit into a one-quart zip-lock bag, AND/OR is over 100ml, it has to be checked> Checking anything liquid? Double zip lock bags. If you have blood pressure, circulation, or are out of shape/overweight, you should probably call your doctor this week and ask if it's a good idea to start taking one baby aspirin a day to keep your blood thin. You may also want to buy a pair of compression socks. Here's a short pamphlet put out by the FAA. Make sure to drink plenty of water in the few days before we leave. You may want to bring a water bottle with you. If you do make sure it's empty before we get in line before security. And also? if you are a panic bunny like me, you'll want to make sure you know where your Passport is now!