Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/129419
PERU in advance and are cheaper than taxis, and the bigger the group, the more affordable (which is definitely the case in Costa Rica). Or check out cheap interconnecting flights. ATTRACTIONS/TOURS: Booking an excursion online in advance may net you a cheaper price, because hotels often up the ante for their share of the profit. • Check your guidebook for reputable tour guides, prices for different tour operators, whether lunch is included, etc. If there are more than two people, request a group rate. TRIP INSURANCE: When planning a trip that includes airfare, hotels and other nonrefundable expenses, a little insurance goes a long way. • American Express Card holders are eligible for cheap travel insurance, in case something goes wrong. Airlines also provide insurance. VACCINATIONS, MEDICATIONS: Going to the tropics? Those pesky mosquitoes can be carriers of diseases ranging from malaria to yellow fever to dengue fever. Check with your guidebook, doctor or local travel clinic to make sure you are vaccinated against diseases that may be present in the area you are visiting. • Ask your doctor or travel clinic nurse for antibiotics in case of emergency. Most will say yes. Better to have and not need than to need and not have. • "Trips help you recharge your teaching battery, get some new motivation and find inspiration," says Ed Campos, shown trekking to Machu Picchu (above) and sampling the food in Costa Rica (right). "It's wonderful to bring back that enthusiasm to the classroom and refocus your students." Save on carrentals! Renting a car, SUV, or minivan in the United States? Take advantage of the savings on car rentals from Enterprise, Hertz or Alamo, thanks to CTA Member Benefits. The CTA Rental Car Program provides you vehicle rentals at reduced or low flat rates, regardless of location. While it doesn't include other potential rental-related charges, like optional insurance, the flat rate is competitive in many locations. It's fast and easy to make arrangements. Go to CTAMemberBenefits.org for details. Joe Massaro in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. May 2013 www.cta.org 13