International Travel? What’s In Your Wallet?

A Cautionary Tale

Janet and her husband, Paul had just arrived in Switzerland one afternoon. Janet laid down for a rest while Paul went out to find a coffee shop. Two hours later Janet woke up to find that Paul hadn’t returned. She went down and checked at the front desk but nobody had any idea where he was.

It wasn’t until the next morning, with the help of the hotel, that Janet learned that he was in a hospital.

Paul had suffered a stroke on the street shortly after leaving the hotel and was now in intensive care. The police at the scene tried to access Paul’s cell phone but it was locked. He had his passport on him so they contacted the U.S. consulate. At the consulate they reached out to the police in Pauls town, who sent a patrol car to the address in his passport but nobody was there and there were no neighbors around.

Had Paul been carrying a simple emergency ID card that included Janet’s cell number somebody would have contacted her within hours of his stroke.

For a couple of dollars and a few minutes filling out an ID card most of the anguish suffered in the story above could have been avoided – again, what’s in your wallet?

The Intentional Travelers have for years offered an inexpensive Emergency Identification Card in either hard copy form or as a downloadable document in our shop on Etsy. At this time we have given up the Etsy shop but are planning on integrating the Etsy into a download shop on The Intentional Traveler.

In addition to Emergency ID cards The Intentional Travelers will also offers free Living Wills and Advanced Medical Directives you can download, fill out and print. Look for the new shop items in the near furture…

International Medical Care

In addition to the above things got even worse. While Paul and Janet had both Medicare and supplemental health insurance their coverage didn’t extend to areas outside of the United States. Because they hadn’t purchased additional international travel insurance the medical bills from Switzerland far exceeded US$100,000. For additional information on international travel insurance click HERE.

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Pragues Vltava River, A Photo Essay

Sunset on the Vltava River in Old Town, Prague, The Czech Republic. Peddle boats still on the river with Prague Castle and St. Vitas Cathedral standing as a backdrop.

Summer along the Vltava River in Prague becomes the center of the city’s life. Boating, walking the riverside paths, picnics, festivals and concerts turn every day into a celebration along the river in Prague.

Vltava river cruises are a popular way to enjoy scenic views of Prague that shouldn’t be missed. They offer a unique perspective of the historic city, making it a popular activity for locals and visitors alike.

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Exploring South America

with From Cartagena, Columbia to Ushuaia, Argentina the South American continent is an amazing land of natural wonders and human accomplishments. Explore the islands of the Galapagos or hike around Iguazu Falls, climb up to Machu Picchu or cruise through the Panama Canal. You can even cast off for a trip to Antarctica or walk…

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Where In The World #5?

It seems so other worldly, like Mars or the Moon but it’s right here on Earth. It’s so alien that the NASA space program uses it to test rovers and other equipment. Find the answer HERE. Here Are A Few Of Our More Recent Postings You might Find Interesting…

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Todays Featured Images • Mykonos

The Iconic Windmills Of Mykonos. Traditionally, these windmills are heavy, three-story buildings made of stone, circular in shapeD, and reflecting the simple yet functional design typical of the Cycladic islands.

They were primarily built by Venetians in the 16th century and continued to be constructed into the early 20th century and were mostly for milling wheat.

One of Greeces most visited islands, Mykonos features amazing beaches, great vibes and just enough culture and history to keep visitors engaged.

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Todays Images • Venetian Glass

It was around sunset as we walked through St. Marks Square on our way to meet friends when we passed a Venetian Glass Shop glowing like jewels in the dark colonnade.

Venetian glass is renowned for its beauty, intricate craftsmanship, and rich history. It has captivated the world for centuries, becoming synonymous with luxury, elegance, and artistic mastery.

The art of Venetian glassmaking originated on the island of Murano, just off the coast of Venice, Italy. Murano’s strategic location, surrounded by water and easily defensible, made it an ideal place for glassmakers to establish their workshops. The Venetian Republic, recognizing the potential of this craft, enacted strict laws to protect the secrets of glassmaking and ensure the exclusivity of Venetian glass.

Todays Image • Going To Somerset Bridge In Bermuda

Somerset bridge is in the Guinness record book as the world’s smallest draw bridge. So while visiting the island we decided this one was worth a visit. With bus passes in hand we found the way to Somerset and with the help of the driver we got off at the nearest stop.

Off the bus we found ourselves on a narrow, two lane road with several cuts through coral rock barley wide enough for the bus. While the posted speed was 15Km, no car that passed us went anywhere near that slow. To get to the bridge we actually had to dash through the cuts but shortly we arrived at Somerset bridge.

The bridge is actually across a narrow channel that connects to a small boat basin. If you look at the face of the bridge you’ll see a small black strip in the center – that’s the size of the drawbridge. It was designed and built to allow sailboats to pass through providing for a gap that just the boat’s mast will fit through. Today boaters call the bridge keeper, who comes out, closes the bridge and flips open the 12″ gap.

If some day you find yourself in Burmuda with a bit of time on your hands we’d recommend not wasting it on Somerest bridge…

Todays Image • End Of A Perfect Day

Spending Time At Sea

I’ve spent a lot of time at sea and truly believe that there is no experience that matches the peace one feels looking out at the vastness of it. Henry David Thoreau had his Walden Pond and John Muir his wilderness while my muse is the sea…

At the age of 18 I went to sea with the U.S. Navy and spent almost five years on ships. I fell in love with the sea and its many and constantly changing moods. From calm sunsets to roller coaster swells I loved it all. Now in my 70s I’m still going out to sea, mostly on cruise ships with over 70 cruises so far.

If you haven;t gone on a cruise you’re missing one of lifes great experiences.

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