In brief

Travelers: Sites to see before you go

The far reaches of the earth aren't so far anymore as we globe-trot to Africa, Asia, and South America.

If you're planning such a trip, you need information about exactly which shots to get and other health precautions. The single best source of information and advice is the travel section of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Web site (www.cdc.gov/travel). It has general tips (use the search function to find the all-purpose traveler's health kit). You can also easily look up health advisories and immunization requirements specific to the place you're visiting. The CDC does a good job of keeping the information current.