Get out and about...

On a recent trip abroad I was amazed once again at the perspective that getting out of the US does for people of color. In the states one may be poor but there are plenty of places that allow you to instantly transform into a rich American.

The same American dollars which the sweat of our fathers (not to mention our own contributions) has made strong is the dollar that in some places can be exchanged for lots of other currency. I went to Asia and in China the US dollar is worth seven dollars at the time of my trip. The Chinese economy also allows everything to remain very cheap (by Chinese standards). This situation means that one can spend seventy dollars in China while parting with roughly seven US dollars.

The real treasure though when abroad is to experience how differently people treat African Americans versus the situation at home. Once you broaden your horizons it is fair to say that you will never again look at the world in the same way.

Making the trip is also very easy. Here are some tips.

1. Get your passport from the US Post Office (application is free but there is a fee for the passport photos and the passport itself). In my case I used a digital camera, a printer and some photo paper to take the passport pictures (not sure if I saved any money that way). You will need lots of ID for the state department to issue the passport so get it all ready.
   
2. Get your tickets through a travel agency that specializes in the country you want to visit (it's cheaper that way and lots cheaper than anything online)
3. Learn some part of the language of the country you are visiting and if possible go with someone you know from that country.
4. Run away from anyone offering to help you with your luggage when you are fresh off of the "boat, plane, train or boat". There are tons of scam artists. Just take normal marked cabs, buses, etc. to get around. Take the tour if you cannot get a friend to go with you.
5. Feel free to be casual but learn a few things about the place where you will visit. Most people will treat you with a ton of respect for making an effort. Don't expect or insist that people speak English and you will make people want to help you.
6. Protect your passports, documents and wallets just as you would on a crowded New York City subway. Other than that just relax and enjoy the vacation.