Common Travel Problems

Common Travel Problems

Below is a list of common travel problems and how to deal with them. Match 7 of the problems on the list with their SOLUTION and with the TIPS to ensure trouble-free holiday trips (page 3). Write your answers in the chart provided below. There are TWO EXTRA STATEMENTS on each of the lists (2 extra problems, 2 extra solutions, 2 extra tips) that do not match, so you should complete a MAXIMUM OF 7 SOLUTIONS AND 7 TIPS FOR 7 OF THE PROBLEMS. IF YOU COMPLETE MORE THAN 7 SOLUTIONS AND 7 TIPS, THE TASK WILL NOT BE VALID.

Letter a) is an example, and is not included in your total of answers.

TRAVEL PROBLEM SOLUTION TIPS
a) Jet lag is ruining your holiday. 0 A
b) The food is a disappointment.
c) You are attacked by mosquitoes.
d) You feel homesick.
e) You have sunburn.
f) You lose your luggage.
g) You lose your passport.
h) You miss your flight.
i) Your luggage weighs too much.
j) Your wallet is stolen.

SOLUTIONS

0. On the plane set your watch to the time of the destination. Avoid too much alcohol, caffeine, fat and salt. If you arrive in daylight, stay awake. Do anything you can to stop yourself falling asleep.
1. Complain to the manager and remain calm. They will probably offer you a change or an upgrade. Otherwise, be sure to write a letter to the manager when you arrive home.
2. Contact the local police immediately. Report any missing cards to your bank. File a report with your travel insurance company.
3. Cool the skin with a cold compress and drink lots of water. Apply a hydrating lotion to relieve the discomfort and speed the skin cell turnover.
4. Don't argue or panic. Put some of the stuff in another bag. Wear some of the heavier items or swap your shoes for the heaviest pair in your suitcase.
5. If it hasn't shown up on the conveyor belt, go to the airline's counter to file a report. Your travel insurance policy will probably cover loss too, so check the wording on your policy.
6. Report it with the local police. Find out what you need to do to be issued a replacement.
7. Stay calm. Staff may have the power to waive reissuing payment. Make sure you're polite and apologetic.
8. Stay hydrated and sip lots of water. Eat bland foods. Avoid spicy or fatty foods. Avoid immediately resorting to medication as it's best to let the condition take its course.
9. The more you scratch, the more it will itch. Go to the local chemist for some remedies. Topical anti-itching cream can reduce swelling.

TIPS

A. Prepare ahead of time by changing your sleeping and eating patterns.
B. Always cover your arms and legs, keep bedroom lights off in the evening and the curtains closed.
C. Always have a copy in your suitcase and on email.
D. Ask reception for a wake-up call if you've got an early flight time. Don't leave right at the last minute - you never know what hold-ups there will be on the way.
E. Avoid the rays at peak sun times, wear a hat, use a protection lotion, and regularly reapply cream.
F. Avoid water that isn't bottled and bottles where the seal has been broken. Stay away from food that has been standing around for a long time and exposed to flies, as well as reheated food.
G. Keep your cash and cards in different locations. It’s best to avoid flashing the cash. Be sure to know your bank's emergency number.
H. Label your bag clearly. Keep all valuables (as well as medication and glasses/contact lenses), plus a change of clothes, in your carry-on bag.
I. Take lots of photos/video evidence of the place. You may be able to claim the money back when you get back.
J. Travelling light means having a stress-free flight! If you really must pack a lot - take some portable luggage scales with you and make sure you weigh your bags on both legs of the journey.

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