· Pick a destination

You may already know in your heart where you always wanted to go, but it's always a smart idea to spend some time researching the place, local customs, seasons etc etc. You'll be starting a new life there so make sure you know the main in's and out's of a place before you get there. Make note of all the sites and regions you want to visit before you get there. The internet is a great place to research... Try these sites;

www.lonelyplant.com

www.101travelsites.com

www.planetrider.com

· Financing your trip

There are different ways of paying for your overseas experience and you need to suss out which is the best option for you. Saving for the trip yourself would be ideal, but you could also investigate getting a loan or paying for the trip on a credit card. Be sure to use a foreign exchange calculator so you know what you are in for.

· Foreign Currency...

Be sure to arrive at your destination with some money in foreign currency - you'll probably need it for a taxi and be sure to check if you need to tip.

·  Insurance

Travel insurance is a must-have. In many countries you will not be protected if you are involved in an accident or get sick and do not have insurance. Of course you also need to prepare for covering your belongings - you wouldn't want to lose all those precious pics if your camera goes AWOL. And remember - tourists are an obvious pick for petty thieves so ensure your belongings are protected.

·  Paperwork

Make sure all your paperwork is in order and that you have spare copies of everything. You'll need your passport and visas to be sorted well before you leave and if they do go missing, having a copy of the document will make the replacement process a lot less painful.

· Health and Safety

In some countries you must have been inoculated before entering the country, so be sure to check with your doctor on what jabs you need to get and when you need to get them. Put together your own basic first aid kit as well - you never know when you will need it.

· Credit Cards

If you don't have one, it is wise to get one before you head off overseas. You don't have to use it but it's nice to know it's there - just in case!

·  Contact

Phone calls from overseas can be very pricey - it is wise to get an international calling card and set up an email address where people can reach you at and you can access from any computer. Gmail (www.gmail.com) is great and it's free. If you are taking a mobile phone, speak with your provider to ensure that it is able to be set to roaming overseas and if you don't want to pay for people to ring you or text you, you may be able to put a bar on the phone.

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