In a time when technology has taken over most business activities such as communications, some people think that business travel is no longer necessary. With the internet, a computer, and tools such as video-conferencing, business people can now interact in real-time without having to travel. Despite all those possibilities, studies still predict an increase in business travel in the coming years. Here’s why business travel is important.
Although business executives can still interact online, face-to-face meetings bring in the element of real-life human connection that lacks in technology. That goes a long way in building a stronger foundation for future relationships. Whenever people engage with each other face-to-face, it is also much easier to eliminate miscommunication and promote some kind of unity between them. Physical meetings also allow the parties involved to understand each other’s communication skills, which is important in business.
Typically, business travel refers to traveling for work purposes. However, there is a lot involved in business meetings such as meeting new people and sharing ideas. Whether it is just a meeting to make a presentation or charity diner, you will always have opportunities to meet other business travelers, executives, and even investors. Stepping outside the office expands your network, thereby creating better prospects of growth in your career and personal life.
Despite the frequent meetings and work-related activities, business travel also offers lots of opportunities for fun. Even if your schedule is so jammed-up, there is still some bit of time you can get between the shifts to experience new cuisines, go shopping, or enjoy the beaches at your destination. That not only helps to beat the boredom but, also allows your body and mind to rejuvenate along the way.
While technology has done greater things to ensure the convenience and safety of doing business, it cannot replace the human face. Traveling for business promotes human interaction, creates opportunities for growth, and allows you to have fun working.
…Today, most countries will not allow travelers entry unless their passports are set to expire at least six months after the end of their trips. As a result, it is highly unlikely that you can travel internationally with a passport that has less than six months to the expiry date. Even if you manage to travel with the passport, getting back home could be a serious problem.
If you are flying within the United States, there is no reason to worry even if your passport is expired. But, you must have a valid form of ID recognized in the US like a driver’s license. There is no requirement for using a passport on domestic flights.
Flying internationally with a passport that is about to expire is almost impossible. However, there are two options to go about it. The first option is attempting to get an expedited passport before the one that you have expires. It is possible to get an expedited passport but, it might take time and a lot of input.
As soon as you realize that your passport is about to expire, contact the US Passport Office immediately for an expedited passport. You can also liaise with a reliable passport agency for the same. Make sure you confirm with the people expediting the passport about all the requirements for processing it. Sometimes, you may be asked to give proof that you are scheduled to travel in the next two weeks.
To get an expedited passport, you will also need to pay a fee for processing the document. The fees may vary but, it usually costs about $170 to process an expedited passport.
Expediting your passport is convenient but, can sometimes conflict with your travel schedule. The other option is to simply cancel or reschedule the trip. Nevertheless, it is always best for every traveler to keep the expiration dates of their passports in check to avoid the trouble.
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