OT - I'm doing a worldwide tour for about 18 months or so, I need help Options

[Bewildebeest]

Welcome for when you get to our little island. PM me for contact details if you want/need any help or info while you are over here. Can you post a link to the show you are doing - sounds like my boys would be interested.
Andrew

[auerbach]

pack a power strip. Plug the strip into the local adapter and you don't have to worry about plugs

[seanery]

Walking With Dinosaurs Web

As far as money goes, I get paid direct deposit, however, I should get my Per Diem in cash, but I have no idea what currency to expect.

[hcdmueller]

A lot of the countries you are going to deal in Euro. It makes things pretty easy. Most people in Europe speak English. That makes things really easy most of the time. Like other people have said, don't assume the person you are talking to speaks english and you will be okay.

I have never had a problem with using ATM's outside the US. Most of the time the ATM gave me a better conversion rate than the local exhange places.

Don't try and use your phone in Japan. It is illegal to use a non japanese phone there (frequency issues or something).

Enjoy the trip. There is not a bad place on your list.

[Gint]

Looks like a great experience Sean! I've been to London, Finland and Estonia (and of course both ends of Canada and Mexico) but only for vacations. I can't add anything to what's already been said here (great advice BTW), except I hope you don't ahve to spend all your time working and you get to have some fun and enjoy the experience.

[maf914]

It's been almost 20 years since I lived in Europe and the Middle East. All of the advice offered applied then. (Except for cell phone use because there were no cell phones then. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) )

The advice on security measures is very good. There are some recommendations that I never thought of in the past.

I especially agree with being polite and curteous to the locals, afterall we are visitors. The concept of the ugly American is unfortunately real and when you see how some Americans act you will understand why. I also agree with the advice to eat in small restaurants with the locals. Just like here in the US you can find some of the most enjoyable food in the low-key places.

Have fun, Sean. This sounds like a great opportunity, one you will never forget.

Oh, and thanks for the 914 tee shirts and very quick delivery!

[neo914-6]

Sounds like fun!

If you're in a large city it shouldn't be a problem but English TV can be limited. Bring DVD's for your laptop or book(s).

Find a bar or coffee shop catering to Americans and you can get current info from other travelers or ex-pats. They are always willing to give you tips.

I've never had money I've left out "missing" in Asian Hotels but use the Hotel lock boxes or safes if provided just in case.

Hotel exchange rates are usually higher, I usually go to a local bank. If you know the rate is low for the day, use your credit card. It should charge for that day's rate.

Have someone take care of your bills at home.. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[PanelBilly]

I'd pick up the language training kits from Rosetta Stone, My company supplied their office furniture years ago when they were first getting started and the saleman who worked with them said the training program was excellent. Anyways, they have been pretty sucessful over the last few years so it must be working and I understand the progam you get teaches a langage really fast.

I'm just thinking it would be so much more fun if you could blend into the culture of one of the countries you stay in.