The CIA World Factbook is a good source for maps of countries and regions. To convert currency and find out local exchange rates, visit Oanda . Making Reservations Most major airlines and hotel chains have their own websites, so if you have a favorite, start there to check for availability, prices, and to make reservations. Before you can make reservations however, you need to establish an account with the site. OneTravel Smarter Living Saving Money Register with your favorite airline websites to receive e-mail alerts when bargain fares become available.
Some airlines now offer discounted Internet-only fares, as do many hotels.
It's worth hunting for these special deals. It never hurts to know at least a few words of the local language. For some pointers, visit Travelang , Foreign Languages for Travelers. If you want to take a free online language course, try Parlo . Michael Lerner Productions.