Articles Web Log

Travel to Brazil is no different than travel to other major cities in developing countries. There are dangers that you need to be aware of and prepare for so that you can avoid or, at least, minimize the risk of becoming a victim. Brazil is a fascinating country with many natural wonders and a warm, friendly people. Follow the tips below to insure your trip is a safe, rewarding one.

You will need a valid U.S. passport and Brazil travel visa to enter the country. Apply early to avoid problems. Before departing, make two copies of your passport and take extra passport photos. Leave one copy with a friend or relative and take the other with you but keep it in a separate place from your passport. You should keep your copy with you at all times for identification.

The major cities in Brazil have very high crime rates. The best advice one can receive is to use common sense. Always be alert. Try to blend in by wearing discreet clothing and little, if any, jewelry, especially if yours is valuable. Use a money belt to carry currency, credit cards and any needed documents that can’t be left in a hotel safe.

Armed assaults occur frequently. One recommendation is to always carry a small amount of cash in an easily accessible location. Having nothing to hand over to a robber may cause him to react aggressively. Under no circumstances should you react or attempt to run away. Many people have lost their lives unnecessarily by doing this.

It is wise to review your health insurance policy before you travel. In some places, particularly at resorts, medical costs can be as high as or higher than in the United States. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States.

Many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations. If your insurance policy does not cover you outside of the United States, it is strongly recommended that you purchase a policy that does. Short-term health insurance policies designed specifically to cover travel are available.

Adequate medical care can be found in all major cities. Some remote areas may have few or no medical facilities. For these reasons, in addition to medical insurance, consider obtaining insurance or joining a medical assistance program to cover the very high cost of medical evacuation in the event of an accident or serious illness.

Food and waterborne diseases are the number one cause of illness in travelers. Travelers’ diarrhea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which are found throughout the region and can contaminate food or water.

To avoid such problems, drink only bottled water, wash your hand often and remember this simple rule concerning food: Boil it. Cook it. Peel it. Or forget it.

This few practical tips, if followed, should help you to keep safe and secure on your trip. While the above comments may have focused on some negative aspects of Brazil, you can rest assured that no matter your destination, whether it be the fascinating rainforest of the Amazon, the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro or the exuberant tropical beaches of the Northeast, the extra effort you exert to ensure your safety is well worth it in order to experience this marvelous country which is Brazil.

Remember, if you haven’t already obtained one, you will need a U.S. passport and a Brazil travel visa.

You’ve no doubt started to hear a lot about bluetooth technology and for good reason. Thanks to its technology, users of bluetooth can enjoy low bandwidth benefits through their wireless connections. With its short-range, low power technology, users can easily network without wires. By being able to send and receive data at up to 720kbs, bluetooth technology customers can use radio waves to communicate with each other, or their Bluetooth enabled devices.

Imagine a world without wires.

Bluetooth Specs
The specifications for bluetooth technology devices allows for different classes of radio transmission ranges. These ranges can reach up to about 300 feet by boosting the radio power. This technology isn’t limited to line of sight as the waves it utilizes are directional waves, which are capable of transmitting through various obstructions.

Industry Model
Quickly becoming the wireless communications industry standard, the real benefit of bluetooth is that it goes beyond the old-world uses and connects all types of devices. Imagine connecting your computer to your cell phone, digital camera, laptop, PDA or any other digital device - without messy wires. It shouldn’t take you long before you see that bluetooth is going to completely redefine wireless. No more wires. You can share information like never before. Need to print something from your cell phone? No problem. With bluetooth technology enabled devices, you can.

Imagine a world without wires! Bluetooth removes the need for wires while still providing the connectivity our businesses need. Thanks to this low cost solution, you can link all of your bluetooth enabled devices and experience communications the way it should be.

How many times have you tried to move information from one device to another, only to find that you dont have the proper adapter? Wouldn’t it be great to be able to download your family photos from your digital camera and cell phone camera easily, regardless of where you are?

One of the current downsides of wireless technology is the strength of its signal. Often you’re worried about whether or not there will be any interference or interruption of your signal by other devices that operate on the same frequency. Worry no more. Bluetooth is known for its solid signal, and ability to operate with efficiency even when other devices operate on the same frequency.

Using a 2.4GHz frequency, bluetooth allows you connectivity throughout the world. It doesn’t matter where you are, more than likely, there is a signal waiting for your bluetooth device.

Security is one of the major drawbacks to wireless security. Blue tooth provides its users with advanced technology that will ensure security of your information. Its difficult for conversations to be heard or data compromised through Bluetooth enabled devices. There have even been questions raised about whether or not the police, FBI or CIA would be able to tap into Bluetooth cellphones.

Did You Know:

- The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) is still reviewing whether or not it will allow Bluetooth devices aboard commercial and private aircraft.
- Well over 250 million bluetooth enabled devices, including computers, headsets and printers are shipped out annually.
- The technology known as blue tooth technology earned its name from the Danish King Harald Bluetooth Blaatand, who is credited with unifying Norway and Denmark. When Bluetooth technology was created, it too had the aim of unifying the computing and telecom industries.

Another great feature of blue tooth is its ability to optimize its power consumption. The radio feature is very power friendly and the device itself only consumes a minimal amount of power that it ‘borrows’ from a cell phone.

India, the world’s largest democratic republic, has a very diverse population, geography and climate. This wide diversity has lead to India’s becoming such a popular travel destination. While it may appeal to those seeking adventure, there are certain risks that must be considered and precautions taken to guarantee that you have a safe journey.

U.S. citizens are required to possess a valid passport and visa to enter and exit India for any purpose. You can obtain visas at an Indian Embassy or Consulate prior to entering the country.

If you plan to stay a month or longer or will be traveling to remote areas, be sure to register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Report a lost or stolen passport immediately.

Some terrorist groups are active in India. According to the U.S. Department of State, there have been occasional terrorist bombing incidents in various parts of India in recent years. These bomb blasts have occurred in public places as well as on public transportation, such as trains and buses, in markets and in other public areas, resulting in deaths or injuries.

Demonstrations can occur or escalate spontaneously, posing risks to travelers’ personal safety and disrupting transportation systems and city services. You should avoid demonstrations and rallies as they have the potential for violence, especially immediately preceding and following elections.

Petty crime, especially theft of personal property, is common, particularly on trains or buses throughout the country. Pickpockets can be very adept, and women have reported having their bags snatched, purse-straps cut or the bottom of their purses slit without their knowledge.

Theft of U.S. passports is common, particularly in major tourist areas and on overnight trains. If you travel by train, be sure to lock your sleeping compartment and take valuables with you when you leave your berth.

Take advantage of free transportation by your hotel if they offer it. If you must travel by taxi, use a taxi service with an office inside the airport. Ask for the taxi’s registration number and compare it to the number on the vehicle before getting in. Be alert for scam artists who offer cheap transportation.

Consult with your medical insurance company prior to traveling to confirm whether your policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. An emergency evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars. You can avoid such an expense with a short-term policy that costs very little.

Travel by road in India is dangerous. A number of U.S. citizens have suffered fatal traffic accidents in recent years. Travel at night is particularly hazardous.

In order to drive in India, you have either a valid Indian drivers’ license or a valid international drivers’ license. Because of difficult road and traffic conditions, consider hiring a professional driver.

While the above list of tips may paint a picture of India that is quite negative, the intention is not for you to desist but, rather, prepare adequately. Few experiences can be as rewarding as travel to India. However, there are risks that must be considered so that your trip is, in fact, a safe one.

To begin your preparation, you will need both a passport and a visa to India to enter.

Most investors think of the major stock exchanges when trading stocks comes to mind. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ), and the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) are among those that first come to mind. Often overlooked by the mainstream media, penny stocks are a low ticket security for companies that are valued at under five hundred million dollars and often trade in low volumes. These stocks also trade on ‘Over the Counter’ exchanges such as the OTCBB or Pink Sheets.

The very fact that microcaps trade at such low volumes increases the risks involved in investing in them. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strongly suggests traders of microcaps to remember that these stocks typically trade with very low volumes on average. This makes finding buyers when you want to sell, and sellers when you want to buy more difficult. As a result, you may not get the stock at the price you want. This can result in buying too high

Despite the risks involved, small caps are often attractive investments to investors for various reasons. If you are new to investing and looking for the chance to return a high yield for a relatively low investment you are likely to come across some penny stocks. The attraction often lies in the fact that at such low prices any changes are often measured by the hundreds of percent this means that your investment can literally double in one or two days time.

On the other hand, the price of microcaps can drop just as drastically and equally fast. Those who are inexperienced investors would do well to avoid small cap stocks until they have a better understanding of how things work. It is also important to note that because of the relatively low ‘worth’ of the companies that are often listed on the OTCBB are often considered questionable investments. Some of these companies have such a limited financial history that no accurate determination of their actual value can be made. Many of these companies are either very new or dangerously close to bankruptcy.

There is also a strong potential for fraud with some buyers artificially ‘enhancing’ or driving the costs by buying large amounts of shares and raising the perceived value of essentially worthless stocks. Most traders who fall for this lose many when it comes time to sell.

A common definition for microcaps is any stock that trades below $5.00 per share.

Penny stocks are not for everyone. Consider speaking to a financial advisor to see if trading microcaps fits in with your risk tolerance.

It is important to remember that not all of these companies are frauds and many of them have a great deal of potential. Some are new businesses that are working hard towards their goal of earning a spot on the larger exchanges. Do your research in order to decrease your risks of landing with a declining or dishonest company. Often, most investors are often convinced that one good investment can make them a nice tidy profit. While this is true it is better to invest in a company that is showing slow and steady growth than one you are hoping will sky rocket over night. Take the time and do your research rather than gambling with your investment.

Russia is a very popular travel destination. Moscow and St. Petersburg are, by far, the two cities most visited. However, Russia is a vast country with many intriguing places to see. No matter where you go, the tips below will help you to have a safe trip.

Before leaving for Russia, it is a good idea to photocopy your passport and leave a copy or it, along with a detailed itinerary, with a friend or relative.

U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport and appropriate visas for travel to, or transit through, Russia and many of its neighboring countries, whether by train, car, ship or airplane.

A business visa requires a letter of invitation from a business contact in the country to which you are traveling. A transit visa requires a copy of your confirmed ticket and visa, if required, to your onward destination.

An exit visa is usually required to depart Russia. For short stays, the exit visa is issued along with the entry visa and is only valid until the date listed on the visa.

The Caucasus region of Russia experiences civil and political unrest. The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to the areas of Chechnya, all areas bordering Chechnya, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Dagestan, Stavropol, Karachayevo-Cherkessiya and Kabardino-Balkariya.

One of the first things you should do upon arriving in Russia is register at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, especially if you plan to stay for a month or longer or you are going to a place where communications are poor.

Carry your photo identification and the name of a person to contact with you in the event of serious illness or other emergency.

Keep copies of your passport, visa, airline or other tickets and a list of your traveler’s checks with you in a separate location from the originals and leave copies with someone at home.

It is always a good idea to use a money belt or concealed pouch for your passport, cash and other valuables although you should leave expensive jewelry, unnecessary credit cards and anything you would hate to lose at home. Never display large sums of money when paying a bill.

You should take food and water with you when traveling by train or car. The availability or quality of these goods is not reliable throughout the region.

Avoid driving at night and never drive alone during this time. Highway crime is always a risk, especially at night. Never, under any circumstances, pick up hitchhikers.

A valid U.S. driver’s license, a valid international driver’s license or a valid license from the country in which you are traveling are necessary to drive a vehicle in Russia.

Crime against foreigners is a problem. Use common sense to avoid assault, robbery, or pickpockets in the large cities. Keep alert in bus and train stations and on public transportation.

If you have been the victim of a crime, immediately contact the U.S. Embassy or the nearest U.S. consulate or consular agency. For addresses and telephone numbers, see the end of this pamphlet. You should also report the crime to the local police immediately.

Medicare/Medicaid does not cover you when you are outside the United States. If your insurance policy doesn’t cover you outside the United States, you should consider purchasing one that does. You can find a short-term policy for as low as $50.00 for a trip of 30 days.

Bring any necessary medications with you and keep them in the original, labeled containers in your hand luggage.

Following the above tips will help minimize risks during your trip and increase your chances of experiencing a fun, rewarding journey.

Remember to get your passport and Russian travel visa.