Many professions require travel. Inexperienced travelers find heading to vastly different cultures daunting. International business travel imposes extra layers of responsibility, but can enrich and reward those who take precautions and use common sense. To make your first-time travel experience to Asia less of an ordeal, so you can enjoy the journey, the destination, and the people ; team Clark & Kent present a short checklist of tips :
Prepare the necessary travel documents
Obtain a passport or ensure it’s up to date. If you don’t have a passport, allow adequate time for government offices to process and approve your application. Some countries also require visitors obtain travel visas. TripSavvy notes that neither U.S. nor E.U. passport holders need visas to enter Hong Kong if their visits are less than 30 days, but mainland China does. U.S. travelers to India do need a visa.
Protect yourself from disease
Travel to many countries requires visitors be inoculated against certain diseases like yellow fever, cholera, and malaria. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s Travelers’ Health page offers up-to-date recommendations by country for vaccinations. For instance, the World Health Organization also offers lists of recommended immunizations. Allow at least six weeks after vaccination for your body to build up immunity.
Take care of finances
International Business Seminars recommends travelers notify their credit card issuers of their travel plans, verify the fees for international transactions, and acquire some cash in the currency of your destination country. An unexpected foreign transaction might trigger the credit issuer to freeze your credit.
Bring power adapters for your electronic devices
You won’t be traveling without your cell phone or laptop computer and maybe an e-reader, too. They’ll need to be recharged. Power outlets in Asia differ from those in the USA and Europe. Purchase the correct power adapters and chargers before you depart. Know what devices are allowed. For instance, India prohibits satellite phones.
Minimize connections and allow for jet lag
Fewer connections that allow sufficient time for meals and maybe a little rest help reduce the physical toll of international travel. Schedule some time upon arrival to rest and acclimate yourself.
Pack lightly and appropriately for the weather
Hotel laundry services generally provide efficient and inexpensive service. Make sure your tops and bottoms mix and match for a coordinated wardrobe using the fewest pieces possible. Remember that shoes take up a lot of room, so a couple of pairs that work with your travel wardrobe are the best bet.
Learn some useful phrases in the local language
English is the de facto world language these days, but knowing a few key phrases in the local language improves communication with locals and helps you get around better. Many will be happy to help with correct pronunciation.
Purchase travel insurance
The cheap price of travel insurance purchases priceless peace of mind just in case something unfortunate happens. Travel insurance protects you and your belongings, and most policies include evacuation plans if you are seriously injured while abroad.
Prepare to negotiate
In many countries, haggling is a way of life. Learning to negotiate without offense protects you from spending more than necessary. That also includes knowing whether to tip for good service–many cultures frown upon the practice–and insisting that taxi drivers use their meters.
Schedule sensibly
Business travelers often enjoy social excursions during their trips, but remember that business comes first. HuffPost advises first-time travelers to schedule more time that you think is needed to get to meetings and appointments and to ensure you get plenty of rest.
No matter where you go, learn the local business etiquette of the country you’ll be visiting. Understand that social interaction, like drinks and karaoke in Japan, is considered part of the business relationship—not just what goes on in the office or meeting room.
If you’re a CXO looking for placements in Asia, there’s no one better than Clark & Kent. We can provide you with not only the best job opportunities in asia but also invaluable assistance to help integrate you into Asian cultures, once we place you. Reach out today : mayuri@clarknkentinc.com
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