For a week in April , most of Europe's airspace was shut after the eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano.
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What ensued was a nightmare for stranded travellers from the Continent and those in transit to the Americas, Asia and Africa. Here's a handy guide to help you stay afloat if disaster strieks while on vacation.

While you book tickets, check if the insurance covers natural calamities.

Most of us take insurance without checking the fine print for cover against trip cancellation or interruption. Opt for a plan that includes travel delay benefits.



Keep in hand a small guide or map of the destination as well as connecting cities of your trip. If you're permitted outside the airport, go ahead and discover several new places.

Keep tabs of the amount you're spending or withdrawing on your card at the airport.

Contact the Indian consulate in the city of your travel. If there isn't one, contact the neighbouring city's consulate. They would be of help when you're stranded.

Befriend the internet. Catch up on movies you've missed by getting a Netflix subscription. Worried about the meeting you were to attend?
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Opt for video conferencing. Skype to the rescue! Become a citizen journalist by starting your own blog, take photographs and give the world your first-hand report of what's going on.

Find a new hobby. Exchange coins with international passengers around you. Share music. Learn their language and teach them yours.

Solve a crossword or a puzzle. Read a book or a newspaper. After you're done reading the news, try your hand at origami.