Many decisions for teen’s first trip

My 19-year-old daughter wants to go on a trip to the Caribbean with a group of her friends during reading week in February. My daughter is mature, responsible and has never been a problem, but it would be the first time she would be travelling out of the country with just a group of friends and without my wife and I. As a parent, you can’t help but worry about what could possibly happen on this sort of trip. I don’t want to deny her this experience, but is there any advice you can provide to give some peace of mind?

Many parents have found themselves in your position and it is natural to have some concerns. There are a few things you can consider before and after the booking process to give your daughter a good head start before she sets off on her journey.

First, I would encourage your daughter and her group of friends to get together to ensure they all agree with some important details. Where do they want to travel to in the Caribbean and how much can each of her friends afford to spend? It is a good idea to do some research, or better still, start by seeking the assistance of a travel professional.

A travel agent will ask the right questions and ensure that the travel services being purchased are appropriate and meet everyone’s expectations, including their budget. When there are several individuals involved, some who may be inexperienced travellers, the guidance and counselling that an experienced travel agent can provide is invaluable.

A travel agent will help your daughter understand what travel services are included if they purchase an all-inclusive package, as well as the standard of accommodation being offered. It is important for your daughter to consider that different living standards and practices exist outside Canada, which may differ from what she is familiar with.

Your daughter should also consider making herself and her friends aware of any local laws that could have a bearing on the trip. For example, at what age can someone legally consume alcohol in the destination country?

In addition, a travel agent will be able to advise everyone of the proper travel documentation required to enter the country. It would be very disappointing if your daughter or one of her friends were denied boarding due to lack of proper travel documentation to meet the entry requirements.

I can’t stress enough the importance of ensuring that your daughter purchases cancellation and medical insurance. A travel agent will be able to assist her with that as well.

I would also recommend she pack an adapter for her cellphone or tablet. Many countries have different size plugs and voltage, so you always want to make sure you can charge these items to maintain contact.

If taking a cellphone, consider contacting the service provider to inquire about an international roaming package to save on costs. Encourage your daughter to stay in touch with family and friends back home, whether by email, social networking or by phone.

Lastly, I would encourage her to maintain a buddy system with her group of friends while travelling and caution her around safety issues, such as venturing off the resort property at night.

Travel can be an enriching experience and can provide an opportunity for growth. A little research, the assistance of a travel agent and some preparation can make all the difference before she sets off on her trip. Dorian Werda is vice president, operations for the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), a non-profit corporation that regulates 2,500 travel retailers and wholesalers registered in Ontario. Send your travel questions to askdorian@tico.ca. Not all questions can be answered.