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Have a question for The Grannies?
We’d love to hear from you and answer questions that you may have about travel. Submit a question!
Question
You guys go to a lot of exotic places in the world, can you name any such places in the US? Scott S., Valparaiso, IN
Answer
A good question because there are a lot of exotic places in the US that one can visit. How about the Florida Everglades? Climb aboard an airboat and take a trip into a land filled with all types of wildlife and adventure. The Ivey House (http://www.iveyhouse.com/) and Butcher Swamp Cottage (http://clydebutcher.com) have comfortable accommodations. In fact, at the Butcher swamp Cottage don’t be surprised to see alligators in the front yard – be careful!
Question
I just got a new Kindle for Christmas as I love reading while traveling. Are there any restrictions on carrying it on board my airplane or getting it charged in other countries? Pat W., Madison, WIAnswer
Congratulations! Granny Regina also got a Kindle as a gift and took it with her on our last trip out of the U.S. The reader cannot be used during take-off and landing – it has the same restriction as other electronic devices but is fine during regular flight. Good news! The Kindle can download books in about 100 countries.Question
My family is visiting friends in India and I was told that I should not wear shorts and tank tops. Is there a dress code for this country? Rachel M. Portland, OregonAnswer
Our advice is to take time to learn about the country you are visiting to ensure you are aware of the cultural differences—you can find lots on the web about this topic and by country! In some countries it is not appropriate for women to wear revealing clothes, and in other countries you might be uncomfortable or unsafe wearing what might be appropriate in our country. Our advice is to err on the conservative side, be comfortable—good shoes, and practical clothes.Question
The world has changed a lot since 9/11 and I am a little skeptical about traveling in the Middle East, parts of Asia and Africa. Should I consider going to places that have had major incidents? Cindy D., Rocheseter, NY
Answer
Dear Cindy: Yes, we live in difficult times and there are many parts of the world that have suffered from major trauma. However, most people in these countries are peaceful citizens who enjoy having tourists and travelers visit their country. Our advice would be to carry a smile on your face, be respectful of cultural differences that you may encounter and be open to different and new experiences. If you are going to a country that is on government alert lists, by all means register with the US Embassy or Consulate in the city you are staying.
Question
I would like to take my nine year old grandson with me on a trip to Europe, but his parents are concerned that he might be bored with the activities that are normally included on travel packages to Europe. How can I convince them that I can prepare an interesting trip for him? Raymond C., Chicago, IL
Answer
I am sure you will find interesting as well as educational activities for your grandson in Europe. After all, Europe is full of children and their parents aren’t taking them to museums and churches all the time. First of all, check out city websites for your destinations and look up programs for kids during the time of your trip. Check out restaurants that cater to children, and I don’t necessarily mean McDonalds. If you are going during the summer, see if there are amusements parks near where you are staying. A visit to one of them will usually please any child. If your grandchild has a particularly hobby or interest, see if there is an outlet for this interest on your itinerary. And lastly, ask your grandson to do some research on his own before the trip so that he can have some familiarity with the location. Also engage him in the trip by providing him with a camera and maybe a video cam to document his experience.
