The stress of planning a trip can seem counter productive to the point of 'vacation'. That’s why Contiki is such a great alternative to other tour packages. The company folds together accommodations, meal plans and transportation, all while providing a balance of free time and preplanned activities. As easy as they make it, there are still some things you’ll have to do for yourself before you take off:

• Get a physical: while not required by the tour, common sense tells us that unexpected health problems won’t add to your fun.

• Obtain prescription information: double check with your doctor for generic names and carry your medicine in its originally prescribed packaging.

• Start taking a multi vitamin: You’ll be exposing yourself to a new world of germs. Keep taking it religiously while on tour and you’ll up your chances for immunity – if not quicker recovery.

• Check immunizations: at the time this is written, Europe is safe from any known plague. Tomorrow, who knows. You can check the Government recommendations at www.cbp.gov (travel). At the very least, dig up receipts/proof of purchase for such items and pack in easily accessible areas.

• Call your health insurance company: ask what your plan offers for traveling abroad. Obtain emergency numbers and precise instructions on what to do in case there is trouble.

• Call your Bank: most branches offer similar services in Europe: but better safe than sorry.

• Register items which may later be questioned by custom inspectors: expensive German made cameras and such, can be registered www.cbp.gov (travel). At the very least, dig up receipts/proof of purchase for such items and pack in easily accessible areas.