Here are a few good web sites with ideas to consider before traveling abroad:

•from the U.S. Department of State: 

            http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html   

   and   http://www.state.gov/travel/

•from MSNBC about getting the best exchange rate using ATM's: 

            http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16994358/

•a good departure checklist:                      

            http://www.internationalcenter.umich.edu/swt/travel/checklist.html