Travel Team Travel Secrets

Surviving Thanksgiving Travel

2009-11-24T11:01:00.000-08:00

Most people already know that the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year. According to AAA, an estimated 33.2 million people will be traveling by car this year, and approximately 2.3 million traveling by air. Another 2.9 million people will take other modes of transportation, including trains and buses.

Considering these numbers, if you are one of the many traveling, brace yourself, it might be a rough day.

Here are some travel tips that should help you get home with the least amount of stress and hassle.

1. Check-in for your flight (or train) online. Most airlines will allow you to check in up to 24 hours in advance and print your boarding pass at home, to skip the long lines at airport check in.

2. Charge your cell phone, laptop battery, portable DVD player, etc, the night before you travel.

3. Pack plenty of snacks and entertainment in case of delays or cancelled flights.

4. Try to avoid checking bags by either fitting everything into a carry-on, or shipping your bags ahead of time.

5. Print out maps of departure and connecting airports and study them: if they change gates or terminals on you, this could be a real time-saver.

6. Don't wrap gifts that you're bringing with you.

7. Last but not least, try to avoid traveling on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving all together, and the Sunday after, if possible.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent for assistance booking your next trip!

10 Best Places to Honeymoon

2009-11-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

Planning your honeymoon, yet not sure where you should go? Below is a list of some of the most popular honeymoon destinations around the globe.

1. Traveling to Hawaii is only a five-hour flight from most U.S. West coast cities, but it feels very much like an exotic oasis far away. Some of the islands’ highlights include the year-round warm weather, beautiful beaches, and ample luxury resorts. Hawaii can be a great honeymoon spot for anyone who doesn’t have a passport and doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of getting one.

2. Jamaica is a couple’s paradise! Gorgeous beaches that go on for miles; clear, warm waters; quiet alcoves and beautiful waterfalls; lush vegetation; and many couples-only all-inclusive resorts make Jamaica a perfect honeymoon destination.

3. Tahiti is the quintessential exotic island paradise. Whether visiting the island of Tahiti, Bora Bora or Moorea, the beauty of these islands scream romance and relaxation. Over-water bungalows, tranquil white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities are yours when traveling to Tahiti.

4. Fiji is another tropical island paradise, and the natives are some of the friendliest people on earth. Although made up of 330 islands, many of its islands are still uninhabited, and most of the island resorts are on small, private, boat-in only islands. The beautiful white sand beaches of Fiji have warm turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling or diving.

5. Mexico is a great honeymoon location for just about any couple who enjoys an easy lifestyle and plenty of sunshine. Head to the Yucatan (Cancun and Cozumel) for white-sand beaches and warm tropical waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming. The Mexican Riviera (Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan) features plentiful beaches, shopping, and accommodations for any budget. For an adventure rich in history, explore the Mayan Ruins, such as Chichen Itza and Tullum.

6. The lush, mountainous island of St. Lucia has tropical rainforests suitable for hiking, as well as abundant marine life for fantastic diving and deep-sea fishing. The soft, tropical air and tantalizing cuisine will make traveling to St. Lucia a vacation to remember.

7. The romantic islands of the Bahamas are suitable for just about any couple as it offers powder-soft sand beaches, crystal blue waters, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, five-star resorts, casinos and ample nightlife.

8. Italy is the top European honeymoon destination and is rich in history with myriad art galleries and museums. Head to Venice for a moonlit gondola ride, relax on the beaches of Positano, or cruise around the island of Capri. Italy is jam-packed with exciting activities for couples of all ages.

9. France, the romance capital of the world, offers travelers a new surprise around every corner. Between world-famous art museums, the French Riviera, and the sights of Paris, it’s a lovers’ paradise.

10. Antigua features powder-white beaches protected by beautiful coral reefs, which make for perfect conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving. Ample luxury resorts offer guests a variety of indulgences, perfect for newly weds.

Check Out Our Website for more honeymoon ideas, or contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started planning your honeymoon.

World's Largest Cruise Ship Arrives in Florida!

2009-11-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, the Oasis of the Seas, arrived in Port Everglades, FL from Finland this morning.

Oasis of the Seas is now the biggest cruise ship in the world! This gigantic vessel is nearly 40 percent larger than the industry's next-biggest ship and five times larger than the Titanic. It is 2.4 million square feet and almost 1,200 ft. long!

This luxury cruise ship accommodates 6,300 passengers, 2,100 crew members and has 2,700 cabins, featuring luxury suites and 2-story loft suites. The ship contains 16 decks, 24 restaurants, 37 bars, 13 retail outlets, a zip-line, a casino, four swimming pools, a mini golf course, volleyball and basketball courts, a carousel and theme parks for kids!

The ship is scheduled for several promotional cruises with travel agents, journalists and guests before making its first revenue cruise on Dec. 1st. It will be sailing in the Eastern Caribbean until May 2010, and then it will alternate between Eastern and Western Caribbean.

To book your next cruise, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Traveling to Australia? Don't forget Your Visitors Visa.

2009-11-12T11:32:00.000-08:00

If you are planning a vacation to Australia, don't forget to get your Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

For U.S. Passport holders traveling on leisure or to visit family or friends, this is typically a very simple and painless process. Most Travel Agents can process it for you in the same day, for a minimal fee, with some basic information such as your passport number, issue date, expiration date, birth date, and full name.

If you hold a passport issued from another country, are traveling for business, or plan to stay longer than 1 year, make sure to plan extra time for the process as you may need to apply directly through the Australian Government.

ETA's are valid for 12 months with stays of up to 3 months on each visit, and can be used for single or multiple entry travel.

Contact an Australia Travel Specialist today for more information, or for assistance booking your next trip to Australia!

Go Downunder for some Sun this Winter!

2009-11-06T10:13:00.000-08:00

If you're aching to get a break from cold weather this winter, Australia or New Zealand are both great options!

Their warmest months are December, January and February, our winter! In Australian cities such as Sydney or Brisbane, the temperatures typically reach into the mid-upper 70's, and in the Tropical North (Cairns), temperatures often reach the upper 80's in their summer months. While New Zealand tends to be a bit cooler, they're still usually seeing sunny skies with highs in the low-mid 70's, while most U.S. cities are buried in snow.

Why not do something different this winter? Go scuba diving at the stunning Great Barrier Reef, get inspired at Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia's great Outback, or drive through peaceful New Zealand in a camper van.

Contact an Australia Specialist today to get started planning your next trip to the Land Downunder!

Vampire Vacations Popular this Halloween Season

2009-10-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Now more than ever, the fascination with vampires seems to be ingrained in our culture. Vampire lore has been around for ages, becoming mainstream with movies like "Dracula", "Interview with a Vampire", the "Underworld" movies, and the recent and very popular "Twilight".

Many tour groups around the world are now offering tours and excursions that are helping the vampire imagery come to life.

Dracula's Castle (Bran Castle), located in Transylvania, Romania is the most popular vampire vacation spot in the wolrd. Tourists who come to this area usually make sure to also visit Dracula's birthplace, in Sighisoara, and Dracula’s burial grounds at the Snagov Monastery.

New Orleans Vampire tours and Haunted History tours are also very popular among Vampire enthusiasts. These chilling yet fun tours take guests to locations mainly in the French Quarter that are based on real diaries, city archives, and very real legends will make a believer out of anyone.

Forks, Washington, is home of "Twilight's" Cullen family of vampires. The popular "Twilight" series has given this small town (with a population of 3,175) a new life, with tourists coming from all over the world to see the real life town that was portrayed in the books and movies.

San Fransisco is not usually known for vampires, but there is an underground history of vampire lore. With the San Fransisco Vampire Tours, participants visit some very haunted places around the Nob Hill neighborhood.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next spooky, or not-so-spooky vacation!

First All Female Flight Crew in the Middle East

2009-10-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Royal Jordanian flight number 132 recorded a first for Jordanian Airlines, and aviation history when it landed in Amman this week.

Returning from Athens, the plane flew with an all-women cockpit and cabin crew. The plane was led by Captain Carol Rabadi and co-pilot Hadeel Khamash. Captain Rabadi said her first flight as captain, together with co-pilot Khamash, would be a landmark in her life and the airline's history where women play a major role.

Way to go Royal Jordanian!

Australia's "Sunshine State", Queensland

2009-10-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

Queensland is Australia’s second largest state. Commonly called the “Sunshine State”, it boasts a warm climate, tropical beaches, World Heritage rainforests, a portion of the outback, the Great Barrier Reef, cozy beach communities and Brisbane, the third largest city in Australia.

Most visitors to Queensland arrive in Brisbane, as it is the main gateway to this region. Brisbane is a city for every traveler, offering an abundance of outdoor activities, art galleries and museums, shopping, beaches, fine dining and nightlife.

Here are some of the most popular attractions in Brisbane:

South Bank is a community vibrant in arts and culture, situated on 16 hectares of waterfront property. It is full of outdoor markets, cafes, restaurants, walk ways and bike paths. And for those warm Aussie days, cool off at Streets Beach by taking a dip in the swimming lagoon. Home of the Queensland Art Gallery, Queensland Museum, Queensland Gallery of Modern Art and the Performing Arts Center it’s a great destination with those who have art in their hearts.

Story Bridge. Bridge tours are available on this famous bridge. A guide will take you on a 2 ½ hour climb, almost a kilometer up the bridge, providing stunning 360 degree views of the city, the Bunya Mountains and the Brisbane River.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. The Sanctuary offers opportunities to get close to many different types of Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, dingos, and of course koalas! You can even experience holding a koala. The soft marsupial will cling to you like a young child; it is not your average animal!

Riverlife Adventure Center is a perfect way for any outdoor adventurer to spend the day. Located on the edge of the Brisbane River, they offer rock climbing, abseiling, kayaking, cycling and rollerblading.

Moreton Bay Islands are just a short drive and ferry ride from Brisbane. Offering dozens of sandy islands in the sheltered blue waters, Moreton Bay is a favorite getaway for Brisbane locals and visitors alike. Here you can feed the wild dolphins or make the rewarding hike up to the summit of Mount Tempest.

The Gold Coast is a very popular destination. In fact, it is where many Aussies go for holiday. With 70 kilometers of sandy beaches, theme parks, restaurants and shopping, you can’t go wrong.

Here are some highlights of the Gold Coast:

There are 35 beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast boasting activities like sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, speed boating, deep sea fishing, and simply enjoying the beach. Some of the more popular ones are Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta, Broadbeach and Currumbin.

The major theme parks in this region include Dreamworld, Sea World, Warner Bros Movie World, Wet N Wild Water World and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. These parks are a wonderful way to bring out the kid in you!

The Gold Coast is home to some of Australia’s best National Parks and Rainforests. Lamington National Park is where you will find Australia’s largest preserved subtropical rainforest. If you visit Lamington, make sure to try the Tree Top Walk. It is an elevated track, 15 meters above the rainforest floor made up of 9 suspension bridges. This park also has many walking and hiking trails, and picnic areas complete with bbq’s.

Also in this area are Springbrook National Park and Tamborine Mountain. Both have a plethora of gorges cascading water, interesting native flora and fauna and scenic walking trails.

The Sunshine Coast is located just 1 hour north of Brisbane. It is known for its 100 kilometers of gorgeous beaches and quaint villages. It is also home to the internationally renowned Australia Zoo.

Here are some highlights of the Sunshine Coast:

Glass House Mountains

Underwater World (largest oceanarium in Southern Hemisphere)

Noosa

Fraser Island is just about 180 miles north of Brisbane. At 120 km long and 15 km wide, it is one of the largest sand islands in the world. It is well known for it’s beautiful white sand beaches, dense rainforests and over 100 fresh water lakes. Unfortunately the beaches on Fraser Island are not safe for swimming due to strong undertows and tiger sharks in the area. There are many great swimming spots at most of the lakes, however.

Just north of Fraser Island is Great Keppel Island. It’s tropical climate and 17 km of fine, white sand beaches have been attracting visitors for years. Since about 90 percent of the island is covered in natural bushland, there are many hiking options. Some other popular activities here include snorkeling, diving, swimming, water skiing, and parasailing.

The Whitsunday Islands is described by many as pure island paradise. They are made up of 74 islands, however only 8 are inhabited. These beautiful islands are bordered by the Great Barrier Reef. They are most popular for sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, golf and tennis.

Cairns is a tropical relaxed city bordered by rainforest mountain rages on one side, and the Coral Sea on the other. It is the primary gateway to this area and the Great Barrier Reef. Some of the main highlights of Cairns are;

The Cairns Esplanade, an oceanfront promenade full of restaurants, outside cafes, shops, waterfront hotels and even a saltwater swimming lagoon.

Cairns also features an abundance of adventure activities, such as sky divining, bungee jumping, white water rafting, and tours to the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is a must-see for anyone visiting Australia. It the largest reef system in the world, at more than 2,000 kilometers long. It is home to more than 400 types of coral reef, fish and sea life. It can be viewed by boat, plane, helicopter, or underwater observatories.

There are hundreds of snorkel and dive tour options for the Great Barrier Reef, as it offers some of the best diving in the world.

Approximately one hour north of Cairns is the sophisticated yet laid-back town of Port Douglas. Here one can find the pristine 4 Mile Beach, many fine dining options, upscale boutique shops, and a variety of oceanfront resorts and hotels.

Kuranda is a vibrant little village hidden high in the rainforest. It is very famous for the Kuranda Markets. Making your way to Kuranda can be even more fun than the actual visit.
The two main options are;

Scenic Railway departs from Cairns, going through 15 tunnels and over more than 30 bridges.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a cableway, that runs between Caravonica to Kuranda, above the Barron Gorge National Park.

Cape Tribulation is the most northern settlement in Queensland. It is a beautiful, small village in the rainforest, where the rainforest literally meets the reef!

Daintree Rainforest is the largest rainforest in Australia, and is over 135 million years old. It also has the largest and most diverse range of plants and animals on earth. For visitors, it features hiking trails, camp sites, picnic tables, swimming holes and beaches. Guided tours are available, including river tours on the Daintree River.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your dream vacation to Australia!

Some Airlines now Charging for Seat Assignments

2009-10-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

Airline fees are on the rise again! On October 7th, British Airways began charging fees for all pre-assigned seat assignments. This even includes discounted business class.

The cost for a pre-assigned seat on a trans-atlantic flight in coach or premium economy class is $30 USD per flight! Passengers traveling on a discounted business class must pay $90 per flight! For exit row seats the fee is $75 each way! These fees are non-refundable.

No U.S. Airlines have started charing for seat assignments yet, but they most likely will start soon.

This is a perfect example why to use a Travel Agent for international travel. Most Travel Agencies can still book British flights without charging for seat assignments.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next trip!

5 Helpful Tips for Women Traveling Alone

2009-10-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

If you are a woman who travels alone, or will be, as many women do these days, here are some helpful tips to ensure safer travels.

1. Pack Smart. Pack light so you won't be weighed down or look weighed down, both of which could make you an ideal target for pickpockets. Also, avoid using expensive looking baggage and clothing, lock all suitcases and only use covered luggage tags with your office address written on it rather than your home.

2. Be Familiar with Your Surroundings. Download maps of the area where you will be staying at home before you go, and try to familiarize yourself with surrounding streets and neighborhoods, to avoid looking like a lost tourist. Ask the hotel concierge where to go and where not to go.

3. Hotel Safety. Ask for a room on a higher floor near the elevator but away from emergency exits, stairwells, and any renovation work. Never accept a room if the clerk loudly calls out your name and room number.

4. Know Before You Go. Try to learn as much about the destination as possible, especially when traveling to a foreign country, before you go. An area's religious or cultural beliefs can directly impact you, compelling you to adapt your dress and demeanor to comply with local customs.

5. Getting Around Safely. Grab a card or matchbook from the front desk with the hotel's name, address and phone number on it, and keep this card on you at all times. This is especially helpful in foreign countries where you taxi driver might not speak English or in case there are several hotels with similar names in the area. Also, explore transportation options available at your destination ahead of time, especially if you will be arriving late in the evening. If renting a car, it's probably a good idea to also rent a GPS to help you navigate unfamiliar roads.

There is also safety in knowledge. With advance planning and the advice of a Professional Travel Agent, your vacation or business trip can be safe, hassle-free and memorable.

Disney Announces Give-A-Day, Get-A-Day Promo

2009-10-08T11:36:00.001-07:00

Disney parks announced last week, that beginning January 1, 2010 they will be giving away one million free admission tickets in exchange for one day of volunteer service.

What a great promotion! This encourages people to volunteer one day of service at a participating local charity organization and get involved in their community, and in return will get one day admission to either Disneyland, Disney World or Disney's California Adventure FREE!

This promotion is limited to one ticket per person and will last until December 15, 2010, or until all one million tickets have been givien away, which ever occurs first.

For more information go to Disney's website.

10 Tips for Traveling Abroad

2009-09-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

Make the best of your international trip with these 10 tips:

1. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date, and make sure it is signed and the emergency information is filled in.

2. Give yourself plenty of time to get any required travel visas.

3. Make at least 2 copies of your passport. Bring one with you, but keep it separate from the original and leave one copy along with a copy of your itinerary with family or a friend at home.

4. Get travel insurance that includes medical benefits.

5. Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws of where you will be traveling.

6. Register with the U.S. Embassy or consulate before you leave, and also keep the number of the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate with you at all times.

7. Learn enough of the language to at least ask for directions or help.

8. Carry some of the local currency with you, but not too much. You never want to travel with very much cash on you.

9. Bring any prescription medications in their original containers.

10. Schedule a doctor appointment about 6 weeks prior to your trip to see if you need any vaccines.

Contact a Travel Professional today to start planning your next international trip!

Dining in a Tree?

2009-09-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

Yep, that’s right. The Yellow Treehouse Restaurant, located approximately 45 minutes north of Auckland, New Zealand recently opened for business.

The tree-house concept is reminiscent of childhood dreams and playtime, fairy stories of enchantment and imagination. This whimsical tree house was built up in a redwood tree, designed to look similar to a chrysalis. It is in a meadow on the edge of a forest overlooking a stream.

The circular café is 33 ft x 40 ft, with the split-level floor sitting 30 feet off the ground. The Treehouse seats 18, with the restrooms and kitchen on the ground. It was designed to be weather resistant using acrylic sheeting fixed to the roof under the fins with vertical roll-down café-style blinds within.

This is something that I would make sure to do, were I going to New Zealand!

To get started booking your next trip to New Zealand, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

New Laser Technology Could Reduce Pirate Attacks

2009-09-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

Somali pirates could face a new space-age weapon used to stop hijackings on the high seas. This would be a giant laser gun, similar to the laser pens used to disorientate pilots coming into land.

The Laser Dazzle System can disable pirates from 1,000 yards away. It won't harm the pirates, but is designed to confuse them when shone on their boat as they prepare to board tankers and cruise ships. It is part of a range of James Bond-style devices for shipowners shown by BAE Systems at a defense exhibition in London's Docklands. There is also a radar that can spot a dinghy from 15 miles and a device that can even turn off the pirates' engines remotely.

The technology is designed to counter the threat posed by Somali pirates off the coast of East Africa. Nato and the EU have deployed naval forces across the Indian Ocean to keep the shipping lanes to the Suez Canal open. But the area is so vast that shipowners need new ways to beat the pirates.

BAE Systems says the radar can detect the pirate dinghy 15 miles away, further than any other commercial radar, giving captains time to escape and alert naval ships. BAE System's chairman Dick Olver said: "We can put radar on the ships which looks over the horizon and can see a rubber boat. When it gets a bit nearer we can turn the engine off."

Normally reserved for military use, BAE Systems has adapted the devices for the commercial sector.

Tour Company now Offering "Divorce Tourism"

2009-09-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

An Indian travel company, KVTours and Travels, based in Mumbai, recently launched "Divorce Tourism" packages, designed to get spouses who are considering divorce to reconsider.

The tour operator wants warring couples to hold off consulting lawyers and go on vacation instead - with a relationship counselor. "With divorce tourism, what we're trying to do is to bring together couples who are heading towards divorce to stop them," the company's chief executive Vijesh Thakker said. India, where marriage is still viewed as the bedrock of society, has traditionally had one of the world’s lowest divorce rates.

Only about one in 100 marriages fail, compared with one in two in the United States. But the divorce rate is rising, particularly in India's big cities. Reasons for the rise include the greater empowerment of women in urban India through better education and employment, also interference from in-laws, many of whom live with married couples in the joint family structure, or imported ideas of "love marriages", as opposed to ones arranged by families along social, religious or caste lines.

There are various Divorce Tourism packages available, from week-long stays in hill station resorts costing about $860 US dollars to more expensive foreign destinations. "We're trying to send them where they have not been before, where there are not many people - and no relatives," said Thakker. Experienced marriage counselors, whose costs are paid through deals made with hoteliers and travel agents, will accompany the married couples, encouraging them to patch up their differences and make a fresh start.

To get started booking your next vacation, contact a Professional Travel Agent!

Wi-Fi on Airplanes Not so Popular When it's not Free

2009-08-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

The Wall St. Journal reports that more than 500 airlines are now flying around the U.S. with wireless internet access up and running! But airlines are finding that the technology that they hope will bring new revenues may be more like in-flight meals: People gobbled up food when it was free, but they find it a lot less appetizing when they have to pay.

Airlines and in-flight Wi-Fi providers say usage has been strong and is growing as more travelers sign up for the service and find it on more flights. Virgin America and AirTran Airways have Wi-Fi hotspots installed on all their aircraft and Delta has them on more than 225 of their planes.

But in tests and now in regular service, usage drops off considerably when travelers must pay for the service. Alaska Airlines even tested charging just $1. The result: a lot fewer laptops, BlackBerrys and iPhones signed on. "There's a very substantial decline in passenger usage the minute you start charging for the service,'' said Michael Planey, a consultant specializing in in-flight passenger technologies. "It really begins to invalidate the model on which this service is being built for the next 10 years."

Mr. Planey believes that ultimately Wi-Fi will be free for most fliers, and the best use for airlines will come in having that seat-back connection to customers. A Wi-Fi hotspot can allow airlines to sell tours and tickets in destinations travelers are flying to, and could possibly one day allow in-flight updating of flight connections or baggage problems before landing.

River Cruising: a great way to see Europe

2009-08-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

A cruise through Germany’s Mosel and Main rivers is like taking a step back in time: rolling hills and steep vineyards that cascade along the horizon. Castles perched high above, with the sound of cathedral bells ringing in the town square. All this viewed from the AMA Waterways ms Amalyra ship, which I personally cruised on June 29, 2009 from Trier to Nuremburg, Germany. Everything on this ship impressed me: great service, large and comfortable staterooms, internet service in every room, and a smiling, helpful crew on board.

River cruising is quite different from ocean cruising with the major cruise lines. Calm seas, proximal shores and lower ship capacity (maximum 148 persons) all make for a more intimate cruising experience. Although you won’t find a wave pool or a Broadway style theater on board, you will enjoy five-star cuisine along with a cheerful and attentive staff endeavoring to meet your almost every need. In fact, on our particular ship there were just 105 guests aboard. This was a great number both in terms of access to the dining and lounge areas as well as offering the opportunity to get to know one another better while onboard.

Shore excursions are included with AMA Waterways, so you can choose to do as many of the offered tours as you like, or simply sit back and relax in the air-conditioned comfort of your stateroom or lounge. One benefit of small ship cruising is that the boat docks right in town, so disembarkation takes only a few moments and the tour guides can wait alongside the ship. This was a great plus in cities such as Mainz and Frankfurt, where we were within walking distance to attractions such as the Gutenberg and Goethe Museum. The local guides are enthusiastic and quite knowledgeable about their areas of expertise, shedding light on the lesser-known aspects of a particular region. This made for an “insiders” tour experience and greatly added to the enjoyment of the cruise.

If you’re looking for a different way to see Europe, consider an AMA Waterways cruise!

Contact a Professional Travel Agent to get started booking your next cruise!

Jet Pack Flying is Coming to New Zealand!

2009-08-14T11:31:00.000-07:00

Forget bungy jumping and river rafting, New Zealand's tourists will soon be able to whiz around in a strap-on mini helicopter to get their thrills.

The Kiwi inventor, Glen Martin, will launch public flights early next year, with plans to expand to Australia soon after. The Martin Jetpack, literally a personal strap-on aircraft, is a two-liter jet-powered engine designed to soar across the skies at 60 miles per hour at heights of up to 160 feet!

The first public flight program will be limited to low and slow flying in a controlled area while the Christchurch-based company road tests the safety and limits of the engine. "It will still be flying as it's never been done before, just in the confines of a rugby field-type space." said the inventor. "Just because we have to stay under 30 feet high and under 6 miles per hr doesn't mean it won't be an incredibly exciting experience."

The flights are expected to cost about the same as a bungy jump or a tandem skydive, and will require just a few minutes training before a person can strap in and take a solo flight. Inventor Glenn Martin dreams of the day commuters will hop into the contraption to fly to work, missing rush hour traffic in their cars.

To book your new vacation to New Zealand, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Why is Airport Food so Expensive?

2009-08-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

USA TODAY recently posted a good article regarding airport food and it’s pricing. Different airports have different ways of how to calculate food costs, the article mentions.

Many airports have adopted so-called "street pricing" policies, which means they require airport shops and restaurants to charge prices comparable with similar stores in town. But many haven't. Most retailers claim the operating costs are too high at airports to follow these guidlelines. Los Angeles International, for instance, doesn't even have a policy, while others, such as Atlanta's Hartsfield, allow retailers to charge a set premium over street prices.

Since airlines have cut back drastically on meals and snacks on flights in recent years, this leaves travelers with little choice then to pay higher prices.

The complete story can be found at http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2009-08-06-cost-food-airports_N.htm

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next trip!

Celebrity Introduces Chair Concierges

2009-08-04T10:25:00.000-07:00

Celebrity Cruise Lines' new "Chair Concierges" will help passengers arriving at Solstice and Equinox pool decks find a spot.

The "chair concierges" will keep tabs on where chairs are open so they can quickly lead passengers to them. A Celebrity spokesman said the line is getting more aggressive about stopping passengers from "saving" unoccupied chairs for long periods of time. Both the Solstice and the Equinox ships do not have as much deck space as some of the other ships. The chair shortage issue only comes up on Solstice on the sunniest sea days, in certain warm-weather destinations where most passengers want to be on deck at once, and the level of complaints have been few. However, the cruise line made a design change to Celebrity Equinox; widening and lengthening the Solstice Deck at the front of the ship to allow for 100 extra deck chairs.

Celebrity has not made a final decision on what to call the new position but "Chair Concierge" works for now.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent to get your next cruise booked!

Know Your Rights if You're Bumped from a Flight

2009-07-31T09:56:00.000-07:00

Even though there has been a significant decrease in air travel recently, airlines are operating fewer flights, so planes are still packed.

Typically airlines sell more tickets then there are actual seats, in anticipation of cancellations and no-shows, or sometimes airlines have to substitute a smaller plane with fewer seats. These things sometimes result in a shortage of seats. Last year, approximately 63,000 passengers were bumped from their flights, according to government figures, and this year is shaping up the same way.

It is good to know that if you get bumped, the federal government has set rules on bumping and occasionally fines airlines for breaking them. This month, the Transportation Department fined Delta Air Lines $375,000, although it may waive about half if Delta improves its procedures for handling oversold flights.

Airlines must ask for volunteers first, and pay passengers some type of compensation who are bumped against their will. If you are bumped from a domestic flight, the airline must pay you the price of a one-way ticket, up to $400 cash if you are rescheduled to reach your destination between 1-2 hours of the original arrival time. If it is longer, the maximum doubles to $800.

While there are federal rules on bumping, there is no requirement for airlines to provide accommodations or meals for passengers who are stranded overnight, even if it's the carrier's fault, according to the Transportation Department.

Sometimes gate agents put out a sign or simply announce that they're looking for volunteers to skip the flight. It's often best to wait until departure time nears to accept any type of offer, as the bidding will usually get stronger. Experts warn about accepting travel vouchers, as they can be hard to redeem, especially at peak travel periods. Make sure you understand any limitations before accepting one.

Since summer airline travel often comes with delays, experts advise that you know what flights are available if yours is cancelled. Also, if your flight should be delayed or cancelled, get on your laptop or phone to see if you can rebook, rather than waiting in long lines.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent for assistance booking your next trip!

Some of Mexico's Beaches are Being Restored

2009-07-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

In an effort to preserve Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, Cancun, the Riviera Maya and Cozumel are having their beachfronts restored in time for the winter vacation period this year. The plan will add sand to an 11-mile stretch of beachfront, helping the area guard against erosion for the next 10 years.

In five months, the dredging company that presented the winning bid, Mexicana de Dragados, plans to extract nearly 247 million cubic feet of sand from underwater and use it to widen the beachfront. When the project is finished, Cancun’s beaches will be 44 yards wide, Playa del Carmen’s 33 yards wide and Cozumel’s 22 yards wide.

The project is supported by the Quintana Roo State Government and Tourism Secretariat, Mexico’s Environment and Natural Resources Secretariat (SEMARNAT) and Mexico’s Federal Electrical Commission, by a 900-million-peso (68-million-dollar) trust with federal, state and municipal (Riviera Maya, Cancún and Cozumel) government funds.

Airlines Increasing Baggage Fees

2009-07-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

Airlines are raising fees again, this time it's for checked bags. American and Delta have recently joined US Airways, United and Continental in raising fees for checked baggage.

Each of these airlines are now charging $20 for the first bag and $30 for the second bag checked at the airport. Some of them offer a $5 discount for checking your bags in online.

Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are still charging $15 for the first bag and $25 for the second.

Southwest Airlines is still allowing checked bags for free.

Taking a Look at Tasmania

2009-07-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

Tasmania is an island off the South Eastern coast of Australia, separated from the main land by the Bass Strait. Tasmania is the name of the island as well the state. Sometimes referred to as the Natural State, or the Island of Inspiration, almost 40 percent of Tasmania’s land is preserved as a World Heritage Listed area. This temperate island paradise boasts 20 national parks, and the mild sunny climate makes this a prosperous region for making fine foods and wine.

The capitol of Tasmania is Australia’s second oldest city of Hobart. With the River Derwent running through it and Mount Wellington just behind, Hobart does not lack charm and beauty. Many of the historic colonial houses and buildings in Hobart have been preserved, and are now used as restaurants, art studios, cafes and boutique hotels.

Some of the most popular attractions in Hobart include:

Bonorong Wildlife Center offers visitors the chance to interact with native animals, including koalas, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, emus and wombats. Open year round, except for national holidays. Tours run twice daily.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is located near the city center and is home to historic plant collections and a large number of significant trees, some dating back to the nineteenth century. Open year round except for Christmas day and Good Friday. Admission is free!
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a great place to find out about Tasmania’s history, including its Aboriginal heritage. Also features traveling art exhibits. Open year round. Admission is free!
Salamanca Place is Hobart’s entertainment hotspot, offering a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, galleries, pubs and nightlife. It is also home to the famous Salamanca Market, which is open every Saturday.
Kayak tours are one of the best, and perhaps most interesting way to see Hobart. Dozens of tour companies offer these tours year round. Most are about 2 hours long.
Walking tours can be a fun way to see this scenic city. There are many different tour options available, one to suit just about everyone, including historic tours, coastal walks, treasure hunts and ghost tours.
Mount Wellington stands right behind the city of Hobart. When it is not covered in snow, there are many walking trails to explore its heavily forested slopes. Near the top is an enclosed look out which provides spectacular views of the city below.

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs are located approximately 80 miles south of Hobart. The richly decorated cave is one of the few caves in Australia formed by dolomite. It began forming over 40 million years ago. Admission to the Cave Tour also includes use of the thermal springs pool, changing rooms, hot showers and barbeques for the day. Open year round.

Port Arthur Historic Site is the best preserved convict settlement in Australia. Every feature of this historic site has a story to tell. Besides the historic buildings, Port Arthur also features magnificent gardens, guided tours and a restaurant and café. It is open every day of the year, except Christmas.

The Cradle Mountain – Lake St Claire National Park is one of the most popular and beautiful natural areas in Tasmania. The park contains a network of walking trails and paths, many of them leading to lookout points with breathtaking views below. There are many picnic areas complete with barbeques throughout the park.

Vineyards and Wineries. Tasmania has over 60 vineyards and wineries, spanning over seven wine regions, mainly on the east side of the state. The wines produced in Tasmania include Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling and Pinot Noir, just to name a few. Many of the wineries offer tours and free wine tastings.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your dream vacation to Australia!

Looking for an Inexpensive Trip? How about Argentina?

2009-07-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

Looking for an inexpensive, yet exotic trip? Argentina is a great choice right now! With the Argentine Peso at 3.80 to the US Dollar, the lowest it's been in over 6 years, the dollar goes farther here than most other countries.

There is plenty to see and do in this beautiful country, from Ushuaia in the far south to Iguazu Falls in the north, and Mendoza and it's beautiful vineyards to the west. Buenos Aries is known as the Paris of the West and is as beautiful as the major cities in Europe.

If you've ever wanted to visit Argentina, now is the time!

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next vacation!