The Lonely Planet guide has published its list for top 10 places to travel to in 2011. The very first one is New York City, and the issue of safety is at the heart of this trip. This is due to the fact that in September of this year, the former World Trade Center will reopen as the National September 11^th Memorial.

The site has remained a huge gaping hole since the disaster occurred. But now, it will become a six acre green area with trees, and a 30 foot waterfall. At night, the victim’s names will be illuminated along the rim of the site. This unveiling will be so significant that it is expected to supersede anything else that will take place in the metropolis for some time to come. As such, this makes it a wonderful time to visit NYC.

While traveling as a child with my father through Ireland I took up the habit of wishing everyone a safe journey when parting ways. Something about those specific two words seemed the perfect sentiment to reflect my thoughts at the point of separation. My whole life I have been one who dreads goodbyes, and the simple phrase of safe journey is the perfect way to show respect, and best wishes without having to utter goodbye. Now, some twenty years after the time my father and I explored the beautiful country of Ireland, I continue to use the send-off. Along my travels I have picked up other salutations and practices that seem to suit me, and my lifestyle, wholly. I consider these to be among the greatest of things I take away with me from a trip. Also, by picking up on the customs of the area, I have learned that I am more easily accepted, and thus safer on my journey.

Though we are sure it goes without saying, do not buy any deadly, exotic animals while traveling. Actually, ever for that matter. We have learned that a gentleman visiting Thailand decided it would be prudent to buy an extremely venomous snake and keep it with him in his hotel suite. He was later found dead in that very room with the serpent very proudly lying nearby.

Although, this is not to say that you should not interact with intriguing creatures through safe and legitimate means. One of the top ten things that I have done in my travels, and perhaps my lifetime was to pet a sleeping python in the brush of Madagascar. I strongly state that it was done under the watch of a guide, and neither me, nor the intimidating snake, were harmed in any way whatsoever.

Before setting off on a great adventure to destinations far off, you will want to check the status of that locale. Aside from being up on current events, you should go directly to a country guide. It will help you to prepare for your travels by telling you about any health, weather, or security updates. For example, you will want to know whether or not it is safe to eat raw foods, and whether or not the water is safe to drink. Should you not research this, you could encounter severe health problems that may not only ruin your trip, but could put your life in jeopardy. But, read up on these things prior to departing and you can skip the potential salmonella, cholera, and parasites. Which means foregoing the possibility of diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. As you can see, this can be some very important information, and it is your responsibility, and no one else’s to make sure that you are aware of what should, and should not, be consumed on your travels.