What to do when you are stranded overseas

Being stranded far away from home can be a frightening and frustrating experience. A lot depends on where you are stuck, who you are with and what options are available to you. Being stranded can mean a lot of different things. Most importantly, you need to keep your wits about you and consider all the options.

If you are going to be stranded longer than just a few hours, you need to consider finding accommodations. When stranded in an airport, this isn't hard to do. Most airports have tourist desks where you can get help finding a room. If you are not in an airport then the local tourist office or visitor center would be the best place to head.

Having access to a computer will make finding them a lot easier but isn't necessary.

If there is a chance that you will run out of money, you need to make contact with someone back home who can help you. Almost anywhere in the world, you can get money transferred to you through Western Union. If you are an American Express cardholder, their local office can cash checks drawn on an American Bank even in foreign countries.

If you are an American traveling abroad, the American Embassy can be of assistance to you. They can help you contact people at home and they can help you get back on your feet if you have been robbed or lost your documents or credit cards. It is always a good idea to know where there is one when you are traveling outside the U.S.

If you are just stuck and money isn't an issue then this could be one of the best adventures of your life. I can't imagine anything better than being stuck in London for a day or two, or three or four. The same can hold true for almost any city, large or small. Cities like Amsterdam, have tours that will pick you up at the airport and take you on a tour for the number of hours that you have. This is also great if you have a long layover.

Try to think of being stranded as an extension of your vacation or a vacation added to your business trip. Use your time to make new friends, have a great meal, see some new sights, go to a spa and have a massage or just take a nap.