When in Rome...

I’ve finally been able to get away after a fun but crazy season of the Real Housewives of New York City and the kick off of my book tour. It was time for a much-needed break, although promoting my book has been a savior to me. It’s kept me very busy with appearances and I have more dates scheduled when I return nice and rested from the south of France.

Why not go explore other countries? You can always go back home. Remember being interested is what makes you interesting. Take chances and follow your instincts. Travel makes us look outside ourselves and our everyday concerns and elevates our sensibilities and compassion for others. It increases our sense of wonder and intensifies the pleasure we find in the familiar.

I’ve always been curious and willing to learn from everything and everyone. My older brothers and sisters can attest to my adventurous nature and to the fact that my fearlessness got me into some sticky situations that required their first aid skills when I was young. I haven’t changed much since then but instead of climbing tall trees to see what is out beyond, I have the good fortune to fly to foreign lands. I think travel is a great way to look beyond ourselves and our everyday lives especially if we immerse ourselves in the culture that we are visiting.

I have some suggestions that will greatly enhance your travel experiences.

• Before you go, learn a few key phrases in the language and you will receive warmer welcomes. Be able to say “hello”, “goodbye”, “thank you” and “excuse me”.
• Learn about the country before you arrive by reading a guidebook or using online resources. Familiarize yourself with customs that are different than ours.
• Dress nicely everywhere you go, including on the plane. Sweat suits are never appropriate. Instead, wear comfortable wrinkle resistant knits.
• Learn the currency so that your transactions go more smoothly and so that you can bargain for items you must have.
• Try native cuisines and gather recipes for dishes you loved to share with friends back home.
• Carry a card from your hotel with you when you are out and about, especially if you don’t speak the language.
• Keep track of your passport and money at all times. Losing either can turn a fun trip into a bureaucratic nightmare.
• Remember to show respect to everyone you meet on your travels. That alone can go a long way to dispel the reputation of Americans as uncouth travelers.

Tip: You only live once so save your money, be adventurous and explore the unknown.