Last Minute List

1) US citizens only need a valid passport but I suggest you make a copy of it and put it in a separate place in case your passport is lost or stolen. If you are not a US citizen you might need a visa and must confirm this before you leave.

2) Bring the original or a copy of your professional license with you if you have one. I have the copies if you sent them but I might not be present with you at customs. Optometry School students should bring student IDs. Carry a copy of your passport along with the original but in a separate place.

3) Get to the airport 2 hours before departure. I would take this to heart this time as the flights are very heavily booked and if overbooked seats will be given out on a first come first serve basis. This is the best way to avoid getting bumped.

4) I suggest you pack a carry on bag with a days clothing and your medical equipment so if your bags are delayed you can still work. I try to check as little as possible, which means packing light. The airline has limited us to two checked bags no more then 62 inches in length each and no more than 70lbs each. You can carry on one bag up to 45 inches in length. EVERYTHING MUST BE IN LUGGAGE, NO CARDBOARD BOXES WILL BE ALLOWED. Please confirm that your ticket has you travelling on American Airlines flight #971 from Miami to Managua on January 15th. YOU SHOULD HAVE A TICKET IN HAND AT THIS TIME.

5) If you are separated from the group which will all be merging in Miami due to a missed flight, mechanical problem etc. do not turn back. The contact point in case of this problem would be my home number (401-423-1377) as I can check my home messages from any place. I will be reachable by cell phone (401-862-9665) up to 7:00Am on Saturday. Desi at Clipper Travel (1-800-333-6804) or Ruth at Intercontinental ( 401-461-1640) can assist with re-ticketing. Once you are in Nicaragua you should call William Smith (0-558-0168) and the hotel (0-041-23284) and arrangements will be made to come and get you. If you want to take a cab to the hotel in Jinotepe you can. Check out the tires before you jump in.

6) Travel light and bring comfortable summer weight clothing. You can work in the clinic in shorts, T-shirts, scrubs, jeans. Comfortable shoes are important, as you will be on your feet all day. All the dress is casual outside the clinic also. I suggest a sweater at night but leave your winter coat at home. There are many ideas as to what to bring down there to help people. The greatest donation is the one you already making.

7) You will be able to use credit cards at the hotels. Some cash and travelers checks are a good idea. Do not worry about changing money as this will be easy on Monday. You will not find any ATMs.

8) Bring your willingness to work hard, spirit of adventure, and a sense of humor.

Rest up

Carl @ Mission Control

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