With summer vacations on the brain, STANFORD asked five alumni travel writers for tips before we head out the door with our fanny packs and Bermuda shorts.

Q: What do you wish you’d known when you began traveling?
A: Jerry, ’71, and Janine Sprout, Oahu Trailblazer: Traveling is seeking the unknown to discover the joy of the unexpected. You need to plan things, but overplanning turns travel into an exercise.

Mel, ’71, and Judy (Anderson, ’61, MA ’62) Malinowski, Snorkel Kauai: You cannot believe all that is written, even in major guidebooks. Some content is copied, unverified or just plain wrong. Keep an open mind, consult several sources and read between the lines.

Q: What’s one thing new travelers often overlook or forget?
A: William Friar, ’85, MA ’89, Moon Handbooks: Panama: It’s what they don’t forget that’s the problem. When packing, lay out everything you know is essential. Then put half of that back. You’ll never miss what you leave behind, and getting around will be much easier.

Susan Stellin, ’90, How to Travel Practically Anywhere: How much time you need to really enjoy a new place. Even veteran travelers sometimes try to cram too much into one trip, which can really spoil what is supposed to be a relaxing, fun vacation.

Q: What is the most important custom to abide by when traveling?
A: Sprout: Smile and learn how to say hello, please, excuse me
and thank you. People of all lands are generous to a traveler with good intentions.

Maxine Schur, MLA ’99, Places in Time: Reflections on a Journey: In France, always greet the shopkeeper before making a request and say goodbye before leaving the store.

Friar: In Panama, dignidad (dignity). Panamanians take slights and disrespect seriously. Travel etiquette is a lot like houseguest etiquette: be considerate, clean up after yourself and don’t outstay your welcome.

Q: Name the destination you’d keep going back to.
A: Friar: India. I’ve been three times and I’ve only touched the surface of this extraordinary place.

Mel Malinowski: China. Asia will become a major world power in the next 50 years because of the good, strong character of the Chinese people, and the changes will be fascinating.

Schur: Mexico, for the warm climate, kind people, food, music, art and Mexico’s great, legendary history.