I get questions all the time on packing tips. Because I travel so much, people assume I’m an expert on packing. I’m learning, but I’m certainly no expert. I make the same mistake as everyone else--I pack too much and say a few choice words because my suitcase is too heavy to carry.
When my children were growing up, and packing for a trip, they used to ask me all the time, “Mom, can I take ‘this’ or ‘that’ with me on the trip?” My answer was always the same: “You can take whatever you want, as long as you can carry it.” My daughters, now young women, remember those words and repeat them back to me quite often, particularly when I can’t pick up my own suitcase because I over packed
I recently read an article in our trade magazine ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) that had some good pointers that might prove useful when packing for future trips. It is particularly important now when most airlines are charging for checked luggage. Cutting down is the name of the game.
Make a packing list so you don’t forget anything. This list could also help with repacking --not to forget anything hanging behind the bathroom door or a pair of shoes under the bed. Also, if you are one of those unfortunate few who have their luggage lost or stolen, you have a list of the contents for insurance purposes.
Think about where you’re going and plan your wardrobe accordingly. Are you going on a bicycle trip through France, a luxury cruise in the Mediterranean, a business meeting in Chicago or river rafting in Colorado? Consider the events you will participate in, both day and night, and write down what you will need for the different activities. Crosscheck your packing list to see if one piece can be worn with more than one outfit. Pick clothes that coordinate well together.
Over the years my travel wardrobe is basically black, with colorful accessories. Black hides a multitude of sins, and it also matches my shoes. I try hard to get away with two pairs of shoes: shoes for walking and a pair of sandals or flats to change into for the evening. Depending on the trip, I may include my hiking boots.
Since I often have to carry my own suitcase, I long ago stopped packing an outfit for every occasion. Also, since most of my trips are over two weeks, I have started using the hotel ‘s laundry facilities. It can get expensive, but it sure beats packing 14 different outfits. I always pack a windbreaker with a hood and a jacket/sweater. For outdoor activities I layer my clothes to be prepared for cooler weather.
By making a list, I have a good idea what I want to take. Next, I start laying everything out in my guestroom. Actually, I may start a week before the trip and when I remember something, I put it with the other items. Once everything is laid out, I go over my itinerary again and try to eliminate what I think I can live without.
Over the years I have tried folding my clothes, layering my clothes, and using those space-saver airtight bags. The article I just read suggests ironing everything first, then button all buttons, zip all zippers and fold your clothes like they do in the stores. Also, using a piece of tissue paper when folding your clothes helps prevent wrinkling. That seems like a lot of work to me. Again, check your itinerary and think chronologically, placing the items to be worn first on the top. Eliminate wasted space by possibly rolling t-shirts or putting socks and underwear in the insides of shoes.
Several months ago I found a great travel bag at a container store. This bag can be folded flat and has at least 15 pockets of different shapes and sizes. I have my toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, make-up, tweezers, aspires, band-aids, body lotion, liquid soap, deodorant, sunscreen, hair gel, hair spray, etc. This bag always stays packed and after each trip, I refill everything. Now, with the new rules about carrying liquids on board, I put this travel bag in my checked luggage.
Thank goodness for digital cameras. Not having to pack rolls and rolls of film saves me lots of room in my carry-on. I do pack my camera accessories, i.e. a battery charger and lenses and even my laptop computer in my carry-on. I used to carry a corkscrew, a Swiss army knife and razor in the bag, but that is now packed separately in my checked baggage and stays in the suitcase to be used on my next trip. I also keep a small umbrella and rain cape packed, just in case.
As for jewelry, leave the flashy stuff at home. Once again, it depends on where you’re going. In most deluxe hotels and on cruise ships, there is a safe in the room (or cabin), and expensive jewelry can be locked up. If you were going to a third world country, where there is lots of poverty, I definitely would leave my good jewelry home. It doesn’t pay to advertise, or better yet, don’t take what you don’t want to lose.
Always carry travel documents, medications, jewelry and your passport in your carry-on luggage. Label each piece of luggage, inside and out, with your name and telephone number, not your address. I actually put my business card in my luggage tag. Remove old airline tags to avoid confusion. I carry my passport, credit cards and cash on my body, in a holder that fits around my neck. There are several different types of travel holders that fit around your waist or under your arm. Find one that is comfortable for you and if there is not a safe in your room, I’d definitely carry my passport, cash and credit cards with me.
Throughout the years I have learned lots of tricks that make traveling a little easier. I always carry extra zip-lock plastic bags for a wet bathing suit or a bottle of lotion that might leak. I also use disposable shower caps to cover my shoes to protect my clothes. I bring pre-addressed labels that I can stick on postcards. I pack one or two wire coat hangers for drying clothes. I always carry a small bottle of anti-bacterial soap in my pocket.
If you have helpful hints on packing or information you’ve gathered over the years that could prove helpful, please let me know. I’ll gladly pass on your information.
Have a great trip.
Showing posts with label Travel Tip. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel Tip. Show all posts
TRAVEL TIP: Better Safe Than Sorry
In the past few years I’ve written several articles on travel safety. Sometimes we get lax and in a rush to get ready for a trip, we sometimes forget the basics.
When I travel I tend to use credit cards and a debit card whenever I can. Before I leave home I always call my credit card companies and tell them where I am going and the dates I am traveling. I always take more than one credit card; if I should lose one I don’t want to be stranded far away from home without a credit card for unexpected expenses. I do not sign the back of my credit cards. Instead, I write photo I.D. required. That will certainly make it harder for someone to walk into Neiman Marcus in Dallas or Harrods in London and buy that diamond bracelet they always wanted! Seriously, every time you use your credit card having to show photo identification is an added safety factor.
I also make sure I have a photocopy of everything in my wallet--driver’s license, credit cards (both front and back,) insurance cards, etc. Not only will I have the account numbers if my wallet is stolen, I will also have the numbers to call to report the loss. I do not carry my social security card with me. Most of us know our social security numbers and that is not a valid form of identification. Someone who steals your wallet could do serious damage if they also have your social security number.
I recently read in a travel magazine that if your wallet is stolen and you lose credit cards, you should also call the three national credit reporting organizations (Equifax: 800-525-6285, Experian: 888-397-3742 and Trans Union: 800-680-7289) and place a fraud alert on your name as well as the Social Security fraud line (800-269-0271.) If thieves decide to buy a big-ticket item, this could prevent serious damage to your credit and stop the thieves dead in their tracks.
In many developing countries it isn’t always practical using credit or debit cards. In the larger cities there are ATM machines in most banks, but not in small, rural villages. Sometimes carrying cash is a necessity. When shopping at flea markets in Botswana or Honduras, it’s important to have cash in the local currency. Sometimes lots of one-dollar bills come in handy. When carrying cash I always wear a money belt. I do carry a small amount of money for purchases in my pockets or in a purse with a strap that goes across my chest. I also pin a small change purse to the inside of my jacket or blouse. I don’t ever open my money belt in public…that is asking for trouble.
If there is a safe in my hotel room, I leave my passport, but always have a copy with me. Depending on what I’m doing for the day, I will also leave my money belt, credit cards, airline tickets, etc.
Another safety tip I recently read about was locking your car with your automatic door lock on your key. Most of us get out of our car, key in hand, press the locking mechanism and walk away. Apparently thieves have discovered a way to clone your security code when locking your door automatically. This has been working well at tourist attractions and shopping malls when thieves know you will be gone for a while. The police suggest manually lock your car door by hitting the lock button inside your car or using the key itself to lock the door. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
A word about hotel reservations. I know many people like to wing it and don’t want to be tied to a set itinerary. However, trying to find a hotel room at midnight isn’t fun either. When my daughter Erin and I were driving across country several years ago, we arrived in La Crosse, Wisconsin, at 9:00 pm and there wasn’t a hotel room to be found. The entire city was sold out. When I realized we would have to drive to Madison, Wisconsin, a two hour drive, I picked up my AAA book and started calling major hotel chains, i.e. Days Inn, Holiday Inn, Courtyard, etc. There was very little available, but we did manage to make a reservation at the Holiday Inn Express, arriving at midnight. The moral of the story: once you decide on your destination for the night, go online or call ahead and make reservations. Most people stop between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm and hotels sell out. Guaranteeing your reservation to a credit card will guarantee you a place to stay, even if you arrive at 9:00 pm.
One quick word about jewelry…leave the good stuff home!! Seriously, if you are traveling to third world or developing countries, or anywhere, for that matter, there’s no reason to be flashing your two-carat diamond ring. I have had clients look at me and tell me they haven’t had their wedding ring off in 20 years, and they don’t want to take it off now. I understand the sentimentality, but wearing jewelry when traveling attracts too much attention and puts you and the group in a precarious position.
I think the best word of advice is to use your intuition and be smart. Be aware of where you are and who is around you. Traveling is fun and going new places is exciting. Be safe.
When I travel I tend to use credit cards and a debit card whenever I can. Before I leave home I always call my credit card companies and tell them where I am going and the dates I am traveling. I always take more than one credit card; if I should lose one I don’t want to be stranded far away from home without a credit card for unexpected expenses. I do not sign the back of my credit cards. Instead, I write photo I.D. required. That will certainly make it harder for someone to walk into Neiman Marcus in Dallas or Harrods in London and buy that diamond bracelet they always wanted! Seriously, every time you use your credit card having to show photo identification is an added safety factor.
I also make sure I have a photocopy of everything in my wallet--driver’s license, credit cards (both front and back,) insurance cards, etc. Not only will I have the account numbers if my wallet is stolen, I will also have the numbers to call to report the loss. I do not carry my social security card with me. Most of us know our social security numbers and that is not a valid form of identification. Someone who steals your wallet could do serious damage if they also have your social security number.
I recently read in a travel magazine that if your wallet is stolen and you lose credit cards, you should also call the three national credit reporting organizations (Equifax: 800-525-6285, Experian: 888-397-3742 and Trans Union: 800-680-7289) and place a fraud alert on your name as well as the Social Security fraud line (800-269-0271.) If thieves decide to buy a big-ticket item, this could prevent serious damage to your credit and stop the thieves dead in their tracks.
In many developing countries it isn’t always practical using credit or debit cards. In the larger cities there are ATM machines in most banks, but not in small, rural villages. Sometimes carrying cash is a necessity. When shopping at flea markets in Botswana or Honduras, it’s important to have cash in the local currency. Sometimes lots of one-dollar bills come in handy. When carrying cash I always wear a money belt. I do carry a small amount of money for purchases in my pockets or in a purse with a strap that goes across my chest. I also pin a small change purse to the inside of my jacket or blouse. I don’t ever open my money belt in public…that is asking for trouble.
If there is a safe in my hotel room, I leave my passport, but always have a copy with me. Depending on what I’m doing for the day, I will also leave my money belt, credit cards, airline tickets, etc.
Another safety tip I recently read about was locking your car with your automatic door lock on your key. Most of us get out of our car, key in hand, press the locking mechanism and walk away. Apparently thieves have discovered a way to clone your security code when locking your door automatically. This has been working well at tourist attractions and shopping malls when thieves know you will be gone for a while. The police suggest manually lock your car door by hitting the lock button inside your car or using the key itself to lock the door. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
A word about hotel reservations. I know many people like to wing it and don’t want to be tied to a set itinerary. However, trying to find a hotel room at midnight isn’t fun either. When my daughter Erin and I were driving across country several years ago, we arrived in La Crosse, Wisconsin, at 9:00 pm and there wasn’t a hotel room to be found. The entire city was sold out. When I realized we would have to drive to Madison, Wisconsin, a two hour drive, I picked up my AAA book and started calling major hotel chains, i.e. Days Inn, Holiday Inn, Courtyard, etc. There was very little available, but we did manage to make a reservation at the Holiday Inn Express, arriving at midnight. The moral of the story: once you decide on your destination for the night, go online or call ahead and make reservations. Most people stop between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm and hotels sell out. Guaranteeing your reservation to a credit card will guarantee you a place to stay, even if you arrive at 9:00 pm.
One quick word about jewelry…leave the good stuff home!! Seriously, if you are traveling to third world or developing countries, or anywhere, for that matter, there’s no reason to be flashing your two-carat diamond ring. I have had clients look at me and tell me they haven’t had their wedding ring off in 20 years, and they don’t want to take it off now. I understand the sentimentality, but wearing jewelry when traveling attracts too much attention and puts you and the group in a precarious position.
I think the best word of advice is to use your intuition and be smart. Be aware of where you are and who is around you. Traveling is fun and going new places is exciting. Be safe.
TRAVEL TIP: Health Tips for Traveling Abroad
I realize I write a travel column, not a family column. However, when you are sidetracked with a knee replacement, and not traveling, a family column sounds pretty good. The “Cox” family have been in the paper several times this past month; thank you for all your wonderful comments and letting me share the happy events in our lives.
In the past eight years, the majority of my travels have been to developing or third world countries. I’m often asked if I experienced any health problems while traveling, and are there any “secret remedies” to avoid the usual travel maladies.
I have no secret remedies or family recipes to avoid the typical travel woes, but I do pass on lots of advice for those going to a developing country.
The first thing I suggest is to see your family doctor to make sure you have no health problems that would be difficult to treat far from home. Next, I suggest you go to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website: www.cdc.gov/travel/ to see if any vaccinations are needed. You can also check with a local travel clinic for the same information (Loma Linda Travel Clinic, 909-558-4594.) If vaccinations are suggested, it’s best to start several weeks or even months in advance. Some vaccines don’t reach their highest protection until six weeks after the injection. Some viral diseases, i.e. Hepatitis A, require multiple vaccinations at timed intervals. This is also a good time to update routine immunizations, i.e. polio and tetanus-diphtheria. Living in the United States, many diseases have been eradicated, however, that is not the case in many developing countries.
If you’re going to a country with a risk of malaria, the travel clinic, or your personal physician will prescribe anti-malaria medication. Remember to start taking your malaria medicine before you leave on your trip, take it during your travels and keep taking it after you get home. There are several different types of malaria medicine; some you take once a week, others you take daily. Tell the doctor your travel destination, which will determine the type of malaria medicine you need to take. Once you have all the required immunizations, make sure to keep your immunization record with your passport, in case you’re required to show proof of vaccinations in order to enter a country.
The most common problem when traveling in third world countries is travelers’ diarrhea. Even if you follow all the rules: drink only bottled water, avoid ice, don’t eat fruits or vegetables that can’t be peeled, use bottled water to brush your teeth, avoid eating foods from street vendors, don’t eat raw or undercooked seafood or meats, etc., etc., I’m not sure you can totally avoid a day or two of discomfort. It happens to the best of us. Eve John got sick in India and I managed to be down for a day in Vietnam. In both places we received excellent care and managed to be back with the group the next day. In most cases a little Pedialyte will help. I recently read that taking Pepto Bismol four times a day while traveling is a good prophylaxis for travelers’ diarrhea. My only other suggestion is to pack some Imodium and hope for the best.
Whenever I travel, I do have my own personal first-aid kit, which definitely includes both Imodium and Pepto Bismol. I also carry antacids, cough and cold medications, Tylenol, ibuprofen, a decongestant and antihistamine for allergies, some antibiotic ointment and hydrocortisone cream for bites, Band-Aids and moleskin for blisters. If you’re going on a cruise or even traveling on a bus over winding roads, make sure you have some Dramamine or Bonine for motion sickness. Also, I always pack sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, lip balm and a good insect repellent that contains DEET. I also carry anti-bacterial cleanser in my pocket, i.e. Purell, and use it throughout the day as needed. According to every article I’ve read on international travel, hand washing is one of the most important practices in preventing illness from infection. In fact, I’ve become so paranoid I even carry Purell in my purse at home and use it several times a day, particularly if I’m not near a restroom.
International travelers should be aware that medical care in some countries might only be available in larger cities and at private clinics. I do recommend buying travel insurance that includes trip cancellation for medical reasons, medical care in case of illness, hospitalization and emergency medical transportation. If you cancel your trip due to illness, or become ill overseas, you must see a doctor in order to be reimbursed for your trip, or the unused portion of the trip. Keep all your receipts.
If you take prescription drugs, make sure you pack enough for the duration of your trip, and have an extra prescription in case of emergency. If you have allergies or are allergic to certain medications, or have a medical condition, I strongly suggest wearing a medical information bracelet. One of my clients, highly allergic to peanuts, learns the word for peanut in the language of the country she’s visiting. In China, she had our guide write out a sentence, in Chinese, that let the restaurants know she could not have any foods with peanuts or peanut oil. If you wear prescription eyewear, make sure to bring an extra pair of contacts or glasses. I always pack two pairs of sunglasses. I found out the hard way that trying to buy a pair of sunglasses in the middle of the Amazon rainforest is impossible!
Traveling to third world countries is interesting, educational, fun and sometimes challenging. The joy of traveling to far off and exotic places is more than compensation for having to take a few vaccinations in order to make travel safer. My philosophy is, I’d rather be safe than sorry. Have a good trip.
In the past eight years, the majority of my travels have been to developing or third world countries. I’m often asked if I experienced any health problems while traveling, and are there any “secret remedies” to avoid the usual travel maladies.
I have no secret remedies or family recipes to avoid the typical travel woes, but I do pass on lots of advice for those going to a developing country.
The first thing I suggest is to see your family doctor to make sure you have no health problems that would be difficult to treat far from home. Next, I suggest you go to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website: www.cdc.gov/travel/ to see if any vaccinations are needed. You can also check with a local travel clinic for the same information (Loma Linda Travel Clinic, 909-558-4594.) If vaccinations are suggested, it’s best to start several weeks or even months in advance. Some vaccines don’t reach their highest protection until six weeks after the injection. Some viral diseases, i.e. Hepatitis A, require multiple vaccinations at timed intervals. This is also a good time to update routine immunizations, i.e. polio and tetanus-diphtheria. Living in the United States, many diseases have been eradicated, however, that is not the case in many developing countries.
If you’re going to a country with a risk of malaria, the travel clinic, or your personal physician will prescribe anti-malaria medication. Remember to start taking your malaria medicine before you leave on your trip, take it during your travels and keep taking it after you get home. There are several different types of malaria medicine; some you take once a week, others you take daily. Tell the doctor your travel destination, which will determine the type of malaria medicine you need to take. Once you have all the required immunizations, make sure to keep your immunization record with your passport, in case you’re required to show proof of vaccinations in order to enter a country.
The most common problem when traveling in third world countries is travelers’ diarrhea. Even if you follow all the rules: drink only bottled water, avoid ice, don’t eat fruits or vegetables that can’t be peeled, use bottled water to brush your teeth, avoid eating foods from street vendors, don’t eat raw or undercooked seafood or meats, etc., etc., I’m not sure you can totally avoid a day or two of discomfort. It happens to the best of us. Eve John got sick in India and I managed to be down for a day in Vietnam. In both places we received excellent care and managed to be back with the group the next day. In most cases a little Pedialyte will help. I recently read that taking Pepto Bismol four times a day while traveling is a good prophylaxis for travelers’ diarrhea. My only other suggestion is to pack some Imodium and hope for the best.
Whenever I travel, I do have my own personal first-aid kit, which definitely includes both Imodium and Pepto Bismol. I also carry antacids, cough and cold medications, Tylenol, ibuprofen, a decongestant and antihistamine for allergies, some antibiotic ointment and hydrocortisone cream for bites, Band-Aids and moleskin for blisters. If you’re going on a cruise or even traveling on a bus over winding roads, make sure you have some Dramamine or Bonine for motion sickness. Also, I always pack sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, lip balm and a good insect repellent that contains DEET. I also carry anti-bacterial cleanser in my pocket, i.e. Purell, and use it throughout the day as needed. According to every article I’ve read on international travel, hand washing is one of the most important practices in preventing illness from infection. In fact, I’ve become so paranoid I even carry Purell in my purse at home and use it several times a day, particularly if I’m not near a restroom.
International travelers should be aware that medical care in some countries might only be available in larger cities and at private clinics. I do recommend buying travel insurance that includes trip cancellation for medical reasons, medical care in case of illness, hospitalization and emergency medical transportation. If you cancel your trip due to illness, or become ill overseas, you must see a doctor in order to be reimbursed for your trip, or the unused portion of the trip. Keep all your receipts.
If you take prescription drugs, make sure you pack enough for the duration of your trip, and have an extra prescription in case of emergency. If you have allergies or are allergic to certain medications, or have a medical condition, I strongly suggest wearing a medical information bracelet. One of my clients, highly allergic to peanuts, learns the word for peanut in the language of the country she’s visiting. In China, she had our guide write out a sentence, in Chinese, that let the restaurants know she could not have any foods with peanuts or peanut oil. If you wear prescription eyewear, make sure to bring an extra pair of contacts or glasses. I always pack two pairs of sunglasses. I found out the hard way that trying to buy a pair of sunglasses in the middle of the Amazon rainforest is impossible!
Traveling to third world countries is interesting, educational, fun and sometimes challenging. The joy of traveling to far off and exotic places is more than compensation for having to take a few vaccinations in order to make travel safer. My philosophy is, I’d rather be safe than sorry. Have a good trip.
TRAVEL TIP: Working in Cyberspace & Luggage Update
I first want to thank Janet Landfried for writing the Travel Tips column these past several weeks. Her articles on Southeast Asia were wonderful and it definitely makes me want to go back.
I have moved from my physical office on State Street to a world of computers, Blackberry’s and phones that are not at all sure how and where they are suppose to ring and also seem to be dropping calls. The world of technology is still a mystery to me and I think at my age I’m on the downward slope of the learning curve. It’s interesting how a dot, dash, or slash communicates something totally different to the computer than I had in mind. And having to learn a completely new airline computer system has been a daunting challenge. For over 20 years I have worked on Apollo, the United Airlines network. Travel of America uses Sabre, a division of American Airlines. The only saving grace in the whole mess is the city abbreviations are the same in both computer systems: LAX is still Los Angeles, YUL is still Montreal and SMF is still Sacramento. (I always remembered that abbreviation because for many years I called the people working in our state capital Smurfs--little blue men from outer space.) But that is about the only thing that is similar!! Thank you for you patience during the changeover. If I’ve “dropped” your call, it isn’t that I don’t want to talk to you, it’s somewhere in cyberspace trying to find the right “static IP address.”
In many ways it’s been lovely. I can now take more time with individual clients, share a cup of coffee going over documents and have fun planning vacations and putting together new and different itineraries. With my daughter, Erin, getting married over the Labor Day weekend, it has definitely given me more time to help her and do a lot of the foot work. In June, Erin started her third year of residency in OB/GYN at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. As a Captain in the U.S. Army, Erin gets very little time off and since she is getting married in Los Angeles, I have done a lot of the calling, planning and running. All mothers of the bride will certainly understand!!!
I now sit in front of my world map and dream. Where next? I know people think I have been everywhere, but there are still lots and lots of places I haven’t been and would love to visit. I haven’t been to Japan. I haven’t been to Transylvania to see Dracula’s Castle. I haven’t been to Greenland, Iceland, or Norway. There is still much of South America I would love to see plus a Gorilla Trek in Rwanda is still a dream of mine. That actually may be possible in August, 2010. Mostly it’s been my knees preventing me from going. According to my daughter, Erin, who was on a trek four years ago when living in Uganda, it is rough terrain and can take from one to eight hours to get to the gorilla families. But, come mid-September I will have my first bionic knee and hopefully my second in December. By April, I’ll be ready for my Turkey group (visiting Cappadocia will be a breeze) and by August I’ll be ready for Kenya, with a side trip to Rwanda.
Several months ago, before my trip to Australia in April, I wrote an article on luggage and bought some new lightweight luggage for the trip. Since then I have received several calls about the luggage, asking me the brand name and where I purchased it. I purchased it through the Internet: www.DiscountLuggage.com. The name of the luggage is Hawa SUB -0-G.
It is lightweight. The 26” case weighs only 5.5 pounds compared to the same size luggage by Pathfinder, which weights 13.5 pounds. However, I did find some problems with the lighter suitcase and would not recommend it. I found the biggest problem to be no handle on the side. Usually a suitcase has a handle on top, along with a pullout handle to help with rolling the suitcase, plus a handle on the side to pick it up to put in a trunk or on a train, etc. When a suitcase weighs 50 pounds I found it awkward to pick it up by the top handle, particularly if you are short. Even at the airline counter, when I put it on the scale to check in, it was awkward for them to put it on the conveyor belt without the side handle.
There are other brands of lightweight luggage. The LA Times did an article on the Hawa luggage and I though it looked good. It does look good, it just isn’t practical for me or anyone under 5’5.”
I’ve also been asked about the next Bill Handel trip. We really haven’t set a date. Most likely it will be a river cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest in June, 2010. I should know more in the next few weeks and will put it on my blog--www.WhereInTheWorldIsIlene.blogspot.com. I’m also putting a link on my blog to Travel of America’s new website. They have some awesome specials on cruises. They even have a rail/cruise package for those people who like to cruise, but not fly to get to the cruise.
Speaking of cruises, even when we book your air as part of your cruise package, you still have to pay for checked luggage at the airline counter. Very few airlines have free checked luggage. Southwest, Alaska and Jet Blue were still allowing a free checked bag, but don’t quote me! Check with the airline before going to the airport. Rules and regulations literally change overnight. This topic came up several weeks ago when some clients were surprised they had to pay to check their suitcases. Get use to it --I don’t seen it changing anytime soon.
Another reminder. If you are going out of the country please call your credit card company. With all the fraud going on they want to make sure you are the one using your credit card. If all of a sudden a charge is made in Bogotá, Columbia, and no one notified the company of your vacation itinerary, I guarantee they will not let the charge go through. Save yourself time, call your credit card company before leaving home.
Take care over the Labor Day weekend!
I have moved from my physical office on State Street to a world of computers, Blackberry’s and phones that are not at all sure how and where they are suppose to ring and also seem to be dropping calls. The world of technology is still a mystery to me and I think at my age I’m on the downward slope of the learning curve. It’s interesting how a dot, dash, or slash communicates something totally different to the computer than I had in mind. And having to learn a completely new airline computer system has been a daunting challenge. For over 20 years I have worked on Apollo, the United Airlines network. Travel of America uses Sabre, a division of American Airlines. The only saving grace in the whole mess is the city abbreviations are the same in both computer systems: LAX is still Los Angeles, YUL is still Montreal and SMF is still Sacramento. (I always remembered that abbreviation because for many years I called the people working in our state capital Smurfs--little blue men from outer space.) But that is about the only thing that is similar!! Thank you for you patience during the changeover. If I’ve “dropped” your call, it isn’t that I don’t want to talk to you, it’s somewhere in cyberspace trying to find the right “static IP address.”In many ways it’s been lovely. I can now take more time with individual clients, share a cup of coffee going over documents and have fun planning vacations and putting together new and different itineraries. With my daughter, Erin, getting married over the Labor Day weekend, it has definitely given me more time to help her and do a lot of the foot work. In June, Erin started her third year of residency in OB/GYN at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. As a Captain in the U.S. Army, Erin gets very little time off and since she is getting married in Los Angeles, I have done a lot of the calling, planning and running. All mothers of the bride will certainly understand!!!
I now sit in front of my world map and dream. Where next? I know people think I have been everywhere, but there are still lots and lots of places I haven’t been and would love to visit. I haven’t been to Japan. I haven’t been to Transylvania to see Dracula’s Castle. I haven’t been to Greenland, Iceland, or Norway. There is still much of South America I would love to see plus a Gorilla Trek in Rwanda is still a dream of mine. That actually may be possible in August, 2010. Mostly it’s been my knees preventing me from going. According to my daughter, Erin, who was on a trek four years ago when living in Uganda, it is rough terrain and can take from one to eight hours to get to the gorilla families. But, come mid-September I will have my first bionic knee and hopefully my second in December. By April, I’ll be ready for my Turkey group (visiting Cappadocia will be a breeze) and by August I’ll be ready for Kenya, with a side trip to Rwanda.
Several months ago, before my trip to Australia in April, I wrote an article on luggage and bought some new lightweight luggage for the trip. Since then I have received several calls about the luggage, asking me the brand name and where I purchased it. I purchased it through the Internet: www.DiscountLuggage.com. The name of the luggage is Hawa SUB -0-G.
It is lightweight. The 26” case weighs only 5.5 pounds compared to the same size luggage by Pathfinder, which weights 13.5 pounds. However, I did find some problems with the lighter suitcase and would not recommend it. I found the biggest problem to be no handle on the side. Usually a suitcase has a handle on top, along with a pullout handle to help with rolling the suitcase, plus a handle on the side to pick it up to put in a trunk or on a train, etc. When a suitcase weighs 50 pounds I found it awkward to pick it up by the top handle, particularly if you are short. Even at the airline counter, when I put it on the scale to check in, it was awkward for them to put it on the conveyor belt without the side handle.
There are other brands of lightweight luggage. The LA Times did an article on the Hawa luggage and I though it looked good. It does look good, it just isn’t practical for me or anyone under 5’5.”
I’ve also been asked about the next Bill Handel trip. We really haven’t set a date. Most likely it will be a river cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest in June, 2010. I should know more in the next few weeks and will put it on my blog--www.WhereInTheWorldIsIlene.blogspot.com. I’m also putting a link on my blog to Travel of America’s new website. They have some awesome specials on cruises. They even have a rail/cruise package for those people who like to cruise, but not fly to get to the cruise.
Speaking of cruises, even when we book your air as part of your cruise package, you still have to pay for checked luggage at the airline counter. Very few airlines have free checked luggage. Southwest, Alaska and Jet Blue were still allowing a free checked bag, but don’t quote me! Check with the airline before going to the airport. Rules and regulations literally change overnight. This topic came up several weeks ago when some clients were surprised they had to pay to check their suitcases. Get use to it --I don’t seen it changing anytime soon.
Another reminder. If you are going out of the country please call your credit card company. With all the fraud going on they want to make sure you are the one using your credit card. If all of a sudden a charge is made in Bogotá, Columbia, and no one notified the company of your vacation itinerary, I guarantee they will not let the charge go through. Save yourself time, call your credit card company before leaving home.
Take care over the Labor Day weekend!
TRAVEL TIP: Are You a Passport Procrastinator?
Not another column on passports! How many times can you tell people they need a passport to travel outside the United States? Apparently, it still hasn’t sunk in. Of course, it doesn’t help when the government keeps changing the rules.The final phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative went into effect June 1, 2009. It very clearly states that U.S. citizens must present a passport book, a passport card or another document approved by the U.S. government when entering the United States by land or by sea from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda.
I’m not sure if it was the cruise companies or the cruise passengers that complained the loudest, but a tiny loophole was created. U.S. citizens who board a cruise ship at a port within the United States, travel only within the Western Hemisphere and return to the same U.S. port on the same ship may present government-issued photo identification (i.e. a drivers license,, along with proof of citizenship such as an original copy of his or her birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization.
This type of cruise is called a closed-loop cruise. So, for all you cruisers who love the three-, four- and seven-day cruises to Mexico out of Los Angeles or a short hop to the Bahamas out of Miami, or even a Canadian cruise (as long as it comes to the same port in the U.S.) have a temporary reprieve. However, keep in mind that you could be refused entrance into a foreign country without a passport card or a passport book. And, if there is an emergency and you need to fly back to the U.S., you will not be permitted to board the plane without a passport.
One day the government is really going to mean what it says--all U. S. citizens will need to have a passport if they plan to travel to foreign lands, including Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Bermuda. Save yourself a headache-- apply for a passport, or at least a passport card if you frequently go to Mexico or Canada. According to Ann at the passport office on Brookside, it is now taking four to six weeks to get a passport. A rush order takes two to three weeks. If you want to plan a trip or it’s an emergency and you need to depart within 14 days, you can make an appointment at the Los Angeles Passport Office (1-877-487-2778.) You will need proof you are leaving the country such as an airline ticket or trip itinerary. If you are really desperate you can contact a private company that will walk your application through, usually the same day. Be prepared to pay dearly for that service.
There are also some updated requirements for children and groups. Children under 16, who are U.S. citizens entering the U.S. by land or by sea from “contiguous territory” (Mexico or Canada,) may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a naturalization certificate or a Canadian citizenship card.
Children under 19 traveling in groups, including school groups, religious groups, social or cultural organizations or sports teams, who are entering the U.S. by land or by sea from contiguous territory may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a naturalization certificate or a Canadian citizenship card. Hopefully no one will need to fly back to the U.S. because without a passport, they will not be able to board a flight. These new regulations only apply when entering or leaving the U.S. by land or by sea.
Last week my article was about Redlands Travel Service moving from its present location on West State Street. I received several phone calls from clients who don’t own computers and still prefer to use a telephone or meet face to face. That’s great. Our phone numbers will not change and I always enjoy meeting with clients. You will receive the same personalized service plus enjoy the benefits of being affiliated with Travel of America. Between my computer and my cell phone, I can always be reached.
TRAVEL TIP: The Changing Face of Air Travel
I can remember the days when we actually dressed up to get on an airplane, had lunch served and baggage checked for no additional cost and changing airlines in the midst of a trip didn’t up the price of the ticket. Those days are gone. The airline industry has definitely changed and even though many of the changes affect our pocketbook, they have come out of necessity to keep up with the changing economy. I’m not defending the airlines, I’m just stating the obvious facts. Can you imagine our life without air travel? Three days by train to Chicago, five days to cross the Atlantic from New York to Dover, England, and several weeks to get to Sydney, Australia. It takes 14 hours by air from Los Angeles to Sydney. So lets look on the positive side and figure out ways to make airline travel easier.
Today most airlines enable you to get your boarding pass online. Many airlines have made traveling more convenient through new features on their websites. Travelers can obtain their boarding passes from the comfort of their own homes up to 24 hours before the time of the flight. You can ensure that you will be in an early boarding group and can save yourself a step at the airport. Make sure to print out the boarding pass! Many concierge desks at leading hotels also offer this feature. Call ahead to see if the hotel you are staying at offers this option.
Another feature offered by some airlines is paying for that “extra” legroom. Are you the person at the counter negotiating for an exit row seat for each of your flights? If so, many airlines have new programs that guarantee a better seat at a better deal than paying for first class or business class. United Airlines offers its Economy Plus seating starting at $14 more per flight. For lots of travelers, it is a marginal fee to guarantee stretch room and extra comfort for a long flight.
To block out the noise of the plane I’ve started traveling with my own set of headphones. These headphones are great and effectively block out surrounding noise, and definitely help me sleep better on long flights. It’s also much better sound when watching the in flight movies or listening to music.
On domestic flights I’ve also started bringing my own food, or picking something up before I get on the plane. Most of the time the food is better and I definitely have more choices. The food on the plane is also expensive for what you get.
Wear easy to remove footwear for both on-flight comfort and breezing through the security line. It is now customary to remove footwear, jewelry and jackets or over sweaters before walking through security. Save yourself and the people behind you in line some time by wearing easy to remove shoes. They will be just as easy to slip off before you start dozing off on your flight.
Nothing can put a damper on travel plans more than missing a connecting flight. To avoid this, take the time and go online and check out the connecting airport and its terminals. Check out the airport's website to gauge how far you have to walk from your arrival terminal to your next departure terminal. Give yourself the extra time to make the flight, especially if you need to board a tram to travel from terminal to terminal.
Different airlines have varied rules on how much luggage can be carried on board. For certain airlines, passengers are only allowed one small carry-on and a personal bag. This means if you have a carry-on bag, a computer case, and a purse, you are out of luck. Be prepared ahead of time and not when you are at the front of the security line. Also, travel with only what you are able to comfortably carry, wheel or haul. If you are checking luggage, make sure you stay underneath the maximum weight or be prepared to pay a hefty fee.
Have a change of clothes handy. Don't let luggage woes ruin your trip. In case of a mix up with your luggage, keep a change of clothes and other important items such as a cell-phone charger and a spare set of contact lenses handy. This will help get your vacation or business trip off to a decent start even if your luggage is stuck in another city.
I hope some of the ideas that have made air travel easier for me will also help you. Enjoy your trip and make that changing face of air travel a happy face.
Today most airlines enable you to get your boarding pass online. Many airlines have made traveling more convenient through new features on their websites. Travelers can obtain their boarding passes from the comfort of their own homes up to 24 hours before the time of the flight. You can ensure that you will be in an early boarding group and can save yourself a step at the airport. Make sure to print out the boarding pass! Many concierge desks at leading hotels also offer this feature. Call ahead to see if the hotel you are staying at offers this option.
Another feature offered by some airlines is paying for that “extra” legroom. Are you the person at the counter negotiating for an exit row seat for each of your flights? If so, many airlines have new programs that guarantee a better seat at a better deal than paying for first class or business class. United Airlines offers its Economy Plus seating starting at $14 more per flight. For lots of travelers, it is a marginal fee to guarantee stretch room and extra comfort for a long flight.
To block out the noise of the plane I’ve started traveling with my own set of headphones. These headphones are great and effectively block out surrounding noise, and definitely help me sleep better on long flights. It’s also much better sound when watching the in flight movies or listening to music.
On domestic flights I’ve also started bringing my own food, or picking something up before I get on the plane. Most of the time the food is better and I definitely have more choices. The food on the plane is also expensive for what you get.
Wear easy to remove footwear for both on-flight comfort and breezing through the security line. It is now customary to remove footwear, jewelry and jackets or over sweaters before walking through security. Save yourself and the people behind you in line some time by wearing easy to remove shoes. They will be just as easy to slip off before you start dozing off on your flight.
Nothing can put a damper on travel plans more than missing a connecting flight. To avoid this, take the time and go online and check out the connecting airport and its terminals. Check out the airport's website to gauge how far you have to walk from your arrival terminal to your next departure terminal. Give yourself the extra time to make the flight, especially if you need to board a tram to travel from terminal to terminal.
Different airlines have varied rules on how much luggage can be carried on board. For certain airlines, passengers are only allowed one small carry-on and a personal bag. This means if you have a carry-on bag, a computer case, and a purse, you are out of luck. Be prepared ahead of time and not when you are at the front of the security line. Also, travel with only what you are able to comfortably carry, wheel or haul. If you are checking luggage, make sure you stay underneath the maximum weight or be prepared to pay a hefty fee.
Have a change of clothes handy. Don't let luggage woes ruin your trip. In case of a mix up with your luggage, keep a change of clothes and other important items such as a cell-phone charger and a spare set of contact lenses handy. This will help get your vacation or business trip off to a decent start even if your luggage is stuck in another city.
I hope some of the ideas that have made air travel easier for me will also help you. Enjoy your trip and make that changing face of air travel a happy face.
TRAVEL TIP: Using Your Frequent Flier Miles: Joke or Reality?
For years I have been writing about frequent flier programs and was wondering how long it would take the airline industry to realize, and attempt to tame, the monster they created. American Airlines started their frequent flier program 25 years ago to attract loyal customers. The concept was simple, the more you flew on American Airlines, the more rewards you earned. Not to be left behind, other airlines created their own mileage programs. Then came the partnership programs, the alliances, hotel programs, car programs and the greatest earner of all--credit card programs. According to an article in Conde Nast Traveler (June 2008,) at the start of 2007 there were 180 million members of frequent- flier programs worldwide sitting on almost 10 trillion unused miles. To grasp that thought, “that’s more miles than there are stars in the Milky Way (about 100 million,) people on earth (6 billion) or U.S. pennies in circulation (8.23 billion in 2007.)” And you wonder why you have a hard time redeeming miles!!!
In the survey taken by Conde Nast Traveler, I was not at all surprised to learn that 70 percent of readers use their miles for free tickets as opposed to 27 percent that use them for upgrades. Based on airline ticket prices, which for business or first class can be more than 10 times the cost of an economy ticket—you get a better per-mile value by upgrading than by redeeming miles for a ticket, particularly on a long-haul flight. That may be true, but for those travelers that don’t fly frequently and get their miles through credit card purchases, a free ticket is far more important.
Only those clients that take multiple vacations to far off corners of the world realize the significance of saving miles to be able to upgrade to business or first class. They know the cost of business class tickets and they try their best not to pay it!! Beware that mileage programs are constantly changing. When I first started saving my miles for my Australian trip it was 100,000 miles for a “free” business class ticket on Qantas (using my American miles.) When I finally redeemed my miles it was 120,000, and I still couldn’t get business class on my return flight!
So, if I’m serious about using miles for either a free ticket or to upgrade to either business or first class, how do I compete with the other 180 million members of frequent flier programs? Following some simple rules won’t guarantee you a free ticket, but it will put you on the right track and increase your chances of being able to use your miles to your advantage.
---Focus on one mileage program. Figure out which airline you fly the most and try to stay with that airline. And check out the airline partnerships. Almost every airline is now part of an alliance: American Airlines is partners with Qantas, Alaska, British Air, El Al, Air Tahiti, etc. which means you can redeem miles on any of these airlines as long as they are in the alliance. Also, most airlines today issue credit cards that give you miles for dollars spent. Use your card for all your purchases: groceries, gasoline, the cleaners, restaurants, etc. You’ll be surprised how fast you can accumulate miles. I’m not suggesting you use your card indiscriminately. Make the same purchases you would normally and pay off your credit card at the end of each billing cycle. Also, know which partners will give you mileage credit. Which hotel and car rental companies are affiliated with your mileage program.
---Book early. On most airlines you can book your flight 331 days in advance. That’s how far in advance airline schedules are loaded into the computer system. I realize most people don’t plan their life 11 months in advance, but if you want to use your miles to popular destinations, you have to start planning ahead. Remember, frequent flier seats are very capacity controlled--you’re not the only one wanting to go to Hong Kong for Chinese New Year or to the Caribbean during Spring break.
---Be flexible. If you can’t get the exact dates you want, try other dates. Avoid weekend travel. It really is easier to redeem miles for flights in the middle of the week. Also, consider traveling in off-peak times. London may be cold in March, but there are no crowds and the Crown Jewels are indoors and will look the same.
---Don’t waste your miles. Look at the price of a ticket before using your miles. Though I’ve never seen the exact figures, I know the airlines equate dollars to miles when they set the number of miles needed to redeem a ticket. According to the article in Conde Nast Traveler, experts put the average value of a mile at about 1.2 cents. (It may be higher today since fuel prices are up!) If we use these figures, then to use 25,000 miles for a ticket that costs $250.00 doesn’t make a lot of sense. On the other hand, by redeeming 120,000 miles for a business class ticket that cost $6,000 is an excellent value. You just bought a $6000 seat for $1,440.
Most airline mileage programs now enable you to buy miles at an inflated price. Unless it’s really worthwhile, i.e. the $6,000 business class seat for $1,445 I don’t think it’s a good idea. Also, most mileage programs also have a gifting option--maybe your wife or son has miles in their accounts that can be gifted to you. The number of miles you can buy or gift is limited--check with your mileage program.
Remember, frequent-flier program rules keep changing. So keep track of the ones you join so that you can make the most of your miles. Two sites that can help: FrequentFlier.com and InsideFlyer.com. Also, if you absolutely cannot get any flights using your miles, think about using them for a hotel room or car rental for the week. If you’re going to have to pay for those services anyway, you might as well try to cut down costs and use your airline miles.
Good luck and happy traveling.
In the survey taken by Conde Nast Traveler, I was not at all surprised to learn that 70 percent of readers use their miles for free tickets as opposed to 27 percent that use them for upgrades. Based on airline ticket prices, which for business or first class can be more than 10 times the cost of an economy ticket—you get a better per-mile value by upgrading than by redeeming miles for a ticket, particularly on a long-haul flight. That may be true, but for those travelers that don’t fly frequently and get their miles through credit card purchases, a free ticket is far more important.
Only those clients that take multiple vacations to far off corners of the world realize the significance of saving miles to be able to upgrade to business or first class. They know the cost of business class tickets and they try their best not to pay it!! Beware that mileage programs are constantly changing. When I first started saving my miles for my Australian trip it was 100,000 miles for a “free” business class ticket on Qantas (using my American miles.) When I finally redeemed my miles it was 120,000, and I still couldn’t get business class on my return flight!
So, if I’m serious about using miles for either a free ticket or to upgrade to either business or first class, how do I compete with the other 180 million members of frequent flier programs? Following some simple rules won’t guarantee you a free ticket, but it will put you on the right track and increase your chances of being able to use your miles to your advantage.
---Focus on one mileage program. Figure out which airline you fly the most and try to stay with that airline. And check out the airline partnerships. Almost every airline is now part of an alliance: American Airlines is partners with Qantas, Alaska, British Air, El Al, Air Tahiti, etc. which means you can redeem miles on any of these airlines as long as they are in the alliance. Also, most airlines today issue credit cards that give you miles for dollars spent. Use your card for all your purchases: groceries, gasoline, the cleaners, restaurants, etc. You’ll be surprised how fast you can accumulate miles. I’m not suggesting you use your card indiscriminately. Make the same purchases you would normally and pay off your credit card at the end of each billing cycle. Also, know which partners will give you mileage credit. Which hotel and car rental companies are affiliated with your mileage program.
---Book early. On most airlines you can book your flight 331 days in advance. That’s how far in advance airline schedules are loaded into the computer system. I realize most people don’t plan their life 11 months in advance, but if you want to use your miles to popular destinations, you have to start planning ahead. Remember, frequent flier seats are very capacity controlled--you’re not the only one wanting to go to Hong Kong for Chinese New Year or to the Caribbean during Spring break.
---Be flexible. If you can’t get the exact dates you want, try other dates. Avoid weekend travel. It really is easier to redeem miles for flights in the middle of the week. Also, consider traveling in off-peak times. London may be cold in March, but there are no crowds and the Crown Jewels are indoors and will look the same.
---Don’t waste your miles. Look at the price of a ticket before using your miles. Though I’ve never seen the exact figures, I know the airlines equate dollars to miles when they set the number of miles needed to redeem a ticket. According to the article in Conde Nast Traveler, experts put the average value of a mile at about 1.2 cents. (It may be higher today since fuel prices are up!) If we use these figures, then to use 25,000 miles for a ticket that costs $250.00 doesn’t make a lot of sense. On the other hand, by redeeming 120,000 miles for a business class ticket that cost $6,000 is an excellent value. You just bought a $6000 seat for $1,440.
Most airline mileage programs now enable you to buy miles at an inflated price. Unless it’s really worthwhile, i.e. the $6,000 business class seat for $1,445 I don’t think it’s a good idea. Also, most mileage programs also have a gifting option--maybe your wife or son has miles in their accounts that can be gifted to you. The number of miles you can buy or gift is limited--check with your mileage program.
Remember, frequent-flier program rules keep changing. So keep track of the ones you join so that you can make the most of your miles. Two sites that can help: FrequentFlier.com and InsideFlyer.com. Also, if you absolutely cannot get any flights using your miles, think about using them for a hotel room or car rental for the week. If you’re going to have to pay for those services anyway, you might as well try to cut down costs and use your airline miles.
Good luck and happy traveling.
TRAVEL TIP: The Art of Packing
I get questions all the time on packing tips. Because I travel so much, people assume I’m an expert on packing. I’m learning, and with every trip I learn something new (silver sandals go with lots of outfits.) I make the same mistake as everyone else--I pack too much and say a few choice words because my suitcase is too heavy to carry. It will definitely be easier with my new lightweight luggage (see April 19 Travel Tips,) but the tendency to take more than you need is inbred. And, with airlines charging for checked luggage, it’s even more important to pack light and stay under that 50 pound limit.
When my children were growing up and packing for a trip, they used to ask me all the time, "Mom, can I take ‘this’ or ‘that’ with me on the trip?” My answer was always the same. “You can take whatever you want, as long as you can carry it.” My daughters, now young women, remember those words and repeat them back to me quite often, particularly when I can’t pick up my own suitcase because I over-packed!
I recently read an article in our trade magazine ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) that had some good pointers that might prove useful when packing for future trips.
Make a packing list so you don’t forget anything. This list could also help with repacking---not to forget anything hanging behind the bathroom door or a pair of shoes under the bed. Also, if you are one of those unfortunate few who have their luggage lost or stolen, you have a list of the contents for insurance purposes.
Think about where you’re going and plan your wardrobe accordingly. Are you going on a bicycle trip through France, a luxury cruise in the Mediterranean, or a business meeting in Chicago? Consider the events you will participate in, both day and night, and write down a possible outfit for the different activities. Crosscheck your packing list to see if one piece can be worn with more than one outfit. Pick clothes that coordinate well together.
Over the years my wardrobe is basically black, with colorful accessories. Black hides a multitude of sins, and it also matches my shoes. I try hard to get away with two pairs of shoes: shoes for walking and a pair of sandals or flats to change into for the evening. Depending on the trip, I may include my hiking boots.
Since I often have to carry my own suitcase, I long ago gave up packing an outfit for every occasion. Also, since most of my trips are over two weeks, I have started using the hotel ‘s laundry facilities. On my most recent trip to Israel and Egypt, I had my laundry done every week. I also hand wash personal items and depending on the material, I will also wash t-shirts and blouses. Hotel laundries can get expensive, but it sure beats packing 14 different outfits. I also discovered that jeans can be worn several times and look none the worse for wear. I always pack a windbreaker with a hood and a jacket/sweater. For outdoor activities I layer my clothes to be prepared for cooler weather.
By making a list, I have a good idea what I want to take. Next, I start laying everything out in my guestroom. Actually, I may start a week before the trip and when I remember something, I put it with the other items. Once everything is laid out, I go over my itinerary again and try to eliminate what I think I can live without. I actually go through the elimination process more than once.
Over the years I have tried folding my clothes, layering my clothes, and using those space-saver airtight bags. The article I just read suggests ironing everything first, then button all buttons, zip all zippers and fold your clothes like they do in the stores. Also, using a piece of tissue paper when folding your clothes helps prevent wrinkling. Again, check your itinerary and think chronologically, placing the items to be worn first on the top. Eliminate wasted space by possibly rolling t-shirts or putting socks and underwear in the insides of shoes. A friend suggested putting a piece of cardboard (cut to fit your luggage) between layers. If you need to get what’s on the bottom you takes out the whole layer, get what you need, and replace the cardboard with all the clothes still neatly folded on top. I did that on my last trip and it worked well.
I usually have everything in my suitcase a few days before I leave. I now put most liquid products in my checked luggage, since all the new travel regulations on taking liquids aboard. Several months ago I found a great travel bag at a container store. This bag can be folded flat and has at least 15 pockets of different shapes and sizes. I have my toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, make-up, tweezers, body lotion, liquid soap, deodorant, sunscreen, hair gel, hair spray, etc. This bag always stays packed and after each trip, I refill everything. That’s the last thing I throw in before I close my suitcase.
My suitcase is packed; it’s now time for my carry-on. I no longer have to worry about film since I bought a digital camera, but I do pack my camera accessories, i.e. a battery charger and lenses, cell phone, and any other electronic device I made need. I used to carry a corkscrew, a Swiss army knife and razor in the bag, but that is now packed separately in my checked baggage and stays in the suitcase to be used on my next trip. I also keep a small umbrella and rain cape packed, just in case. And I always pack extra set of clothes, jut in case my luggage is lost. When I went to the Black Sea in July 2008 my luggage was “misplaced” in Frankfurt. It didn’t get to Istanbul until the following day and I was very happy I had a change of clothes with me.
Check on line, or give your travel agent a call to see what amenities are in your hotel room or cabin. Today, almost all four and five star hotels and most cruise ships have hair dryers. Many hotels even have an iron and ironing board in the room.
As for jewelry, leave the flashy stuff at home. Once again, it depends on where you’re going. In most deluxe hotels and on cruise ships, there is a safe in the room (or cabin,) and expensive jewelry can be locked up. If you are going to a third world country, where there is lots of poverty, I definitely would leave my good jewelry home. It doesn’t pay to advertise, or better yet, don’t take what you don’t want to lose.
Always carry travel documents, medications, jewelry and your passport in your carry-on luggage. Label each piece of luggage, inside and out, with your name and telephone number, not your address. I actually put my business card in my luggage tag. Remove old airline tags to avoid confusion. I carry my passport, credit cards and cash on my body, in a holder that fits around my neck. There are several different types of travel holders that fit around your waist or under your arm. Find one that is comfortable for you and if there is no safe in your room, check at the front desk. Make sure you get a receipt for what you leave in the hotel safe. As a last resort, I carry my passport, cash and credit cards with me, but that is definitely not my first choice.
Throughout the years I have learned lots of tricks that make traveling a little easier. I always carry extra zip-lock plastic bags for a wet bathing suit or a bottle of lotion that might leak. I also use disposable shower caps to cover my shoes in my suitcase to protect my clothes. I bring pre-addressed labels that I can stick on postcards. I pack one or two wire or plastic coat hangers for drying clothes. I always carry a small bottle of anti-bacterial hand wash in my pocket.
If you have helpful hints on packing or information you’ve gathered over the years that could prove helpful, please let me know. I’m always looking for ways to make travel a bit easier and safer.
Have a great trip.
When my children were growing up and packing for a trip, they used to ask me all the time, "Mom, can I take ‘this’ or ‘that’ with me on the trip?” My answer was always the same. “You can take whatever you want, as long as you can carry it.” My daughters, now young women, remember those words and repeat them back to me quite often, particularly when I can’t pick up my own suitcase because I over-packed!
I recently read an article in our trade magazine ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) that had some good pointers that might prove useful when packing for future trips.
Make a packing list so you don’t forget anything. This list could also help with repacking---not to forget anything hanging behind the bathroom door or a pair of shoes under the bed. Also, if you are one of those unfortunate few who have their luggage lost or stolen, you have a list of the contents for insurance purposes.
Think about where you’re going and plan your wardrobe accordingly. Are you going on a bicycle trip through France, a luxury cruise in the Mediterranean, or a business meeting in Chicago? Consider the events you will participate in, both day and night, and write down a possible outfit for the different activities. Crosscheck your packing list to see if one piece can be worn with more than one outfit. Pick clothes that coordinate well together.
Over the years my wardrobe is basically black, with colorful accessories. Black hides a multitude of sins, and it also matches my shoes. I try hard to get away with two pairs of shoes: shoes for walking and a pair of sandals or flats to change into for the evening. Depending on the trip, I may include my hiking boots.
Since I often have to carry my own suitcase, I long ago gave up packing an outfit for every occasion. Also, since most of my trips are over two weeks, I have started using the hotel ‘s laundry facilities. On my most recent trip to Israel and Egypt, I had my laundry done every week. I also hand wash personal items and depending on the material, I will also wash t-shirts and blouses. Hotel laundries can get expensive, but it sure beats packing 14 different outfits. I also discovered that jeans can be worn several times and look none the worse for wear. I always pack a windbreaker with a hood and a jacket/sweater. For outdoor activities I layer my clothes to be prepared for cooler weather.
By making a list, I have a good idea what I want to take. Next, I start laying everything out in my guestroom. Actually, I may start a week before the trip and when I remember something, I put it with the other items. Once everything is laid out, I go over my itinerary again and try to eliminate what I think I can live without. I actually go through the elimination process more than once.
Over the years I have tried folding my clothes, layering my clothes, and using those space-saver airtight bags. The article I just read suggests ironing everything first, then button all buttons, zip all zippers and fold your clothes like they do in the stores. Also, using a piece of tissue paper when folding your clothes helps prevent wrinkling. Again, check your itinerary and think chronologically, placing the items to be worn first on the top. Eliminate wasted space by possibly rolling t-shirts or putting socks and underwear in the insides of shoes. A friend suggested putting a piece of cardboard (cut to fit your luggage) between layers. If you need to get what’s on the bottom you takes out the whole layer, get what you need, and replace the cardboard with all the clothes still neatly folded on top. I did that on my last trip and it worked well.
I usually have everything in my suitcase a few days before I leave. I now put most liquid products in my checked luggage, since all the new travel regulations on taking liquids aboard. Several months ago I found a great travel bag at a container store. This bag can be folded flat and has at least 15 pockets of different shapes and sizes. I have my toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, make-up, tweezers, body lotion, liquid soap, deodorant, sunscreen, hair gel, hair spray, etc. This bag always stays packed and after each trip, I refill everything. That’s the last thing I throw in before I close my suitcase.
My suitcase is packed; it’s now time for my carry-on. I no longer have to worry about film since I bought a digital camera, but I do pack my camera accessories, i.e. a battery charger and lenses, cell phone, and any other electronic device I made need. I used to carry a corkscrew, a Swiss army knife and razor in the bag, but that is now packed separately in my checked baggage and stays in the suitcase to be used on my next trip. I also keep a small umbrella and rain cape packed, just in case. And I always pack extra set of clothes, jut in case my luggage is lost. When I went to the Black Sea in July 2008 my luggage was “misplaced” in Frankfurt. It didn’t get to Istanbul until the following day and I was very happy I had a change of clothes with me.
Check on line, or give your travel agent a call to see what amenities are in your hotel room or cabin. Today, almost all four and five star hotels and most cruise ships have hair dryers. Many hotels even have an iron and ironing board in the room.
As for jewelry, leave the flashy stuff at home. Once again, it depends on where you’re going. In most deluxe hotels and on cruise ships, there is a safe in the room (or cabin,) and expensive jewelry can be locked up. If you are going to a third world country, where there is lots of poverty, I definitely would leave my good jewelry home. It doesn’t pay to advertise, or better yet, don’t take what you don’t want to lose.
Always carry travel documents, medications, jewelry and your passport in your carry-on luggage. Label each piece of luggage, inside and out, with your name and telephone number, not your address. I actually put my business card in my luggage tag. Remove old airline tags to avoid confusion. I carry my passport, credit cards and cash on my body, in a holder that fits around my neck. There are several different types of travel holders that fit around your waist or under your arm. Find one that is comfortable for you and if there is no safe in your room, check at the front desk. Make sure you get a receipt for what you leave in the hotel safe. As a last resort, I carry my passport, cash and credit cards with me, but that is definitely not my first choice.
Throughout the years I have learned lots of tricks that make traveling a little easier. I always carry extra zip-lock plastic bags for a wet bathing suit or a bottle of lotion that might leak. I also use disposable shower caps to cover my shoes in my suitcase to protect my clothes. I bring pre-addressed labels that I can stick on postcards. I pack one or two wire or plastic coat hangers for drying clothes. I always carry a small bottle of anti-bacterial hand wash in my pocket.
If you have helpful hints on packing or information you’ve gathered over the years that could prove helpful, please let me know. I’m always looking for ways to make travel a bit easier and safer.
Have a great trip.
TRAVEL TIP: Light Luggage and Locks
As you read this article I will be snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia. I have been to Australia before, but only to Sydney. On this trip I will be visiting Cairns, Ayers Rock, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Tasmania and Sydney. I’m looking forward to seeing more of Australia; so in about six weeks, start looking for articles on my adventures in Australia.
In preparation for my trip to Australia I actually bought new luggage. With the strict weight regulations on some airlines, I decided lighter luggage could mean an extra pair of shoes and another blouse, important items in any woman’s wardrobe.
In the LA Times Travel Section (March 22, 2009) I read about some new “feather-light” luggage that just came on the market. The article claimed it was the lightest luggage on the market with the 19-inch carry-on weighing less than 4.6 pounds and the 30-inch case weighing less than 6 pounds. Wow, that sounded impressive. I immediately went to the garage and pulled out my old faithful, 26-inch case that has traveled with me around the world. I knew it felt heavy, but I was surprised to see that it actually weighed 13.5 pounds, empty. If their big case weighs less that 6 pounds, the difference could mean more than just an extra pair of shoes and a blouse, maybe another pair of pants or even a sweater set.
I ordered the luggage. When it arrived at my office a week later the first thing I did was pick up the box. It felt light--the two together felt lighter than my one big suitcase. I took the cases out of the box and was amazed when I picked them up. They really are lightweight. I ordered the 26-inch case, which weighs 5.10 pounds and the 19-inch carry-on weighed in at 4.6 pounds, as was advertised. They are sturdy, according to the literature on the bags, they are made using ultra-light fiberglass frames.
What did I pay for these lightweight, sturdy bags? The 26-inch bag was on sale for $99.95 and the carry-on cost $79.95. I ordered them online from discountluggage.com. They come in black and red. Neither case has the expandable zipper that lets you stuff those last minute souvenirs into your suitcase. You’ll have to do what I do, buy jewelry; it doesn’t take up any room at all!!!
My clients often ask me if I lock my bags. The answer is yes, and I use a TSA lock. TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has worked with several companies to develop locks that can be opened by security officers using universal "master" keys, so that the locks may not have to be cut. The locks are combination locks, either three or four numbers.
If you travel infrequently, you may be interested in some of the newer regulations concerning what you can and cannot take in your carry-on bag and checked luggage. The catchphrase for carry-on bags is 3-1-1: any liquid or gel must go into a 3.4oz. bottle or less, all bottles need to be put in a quart size plastic bag, one bag per person going through security.
Obviously, 3-1-1 is for shorter trips. Since most of my trips are two to three weeks I put most of my liquids in my checked luggage (wrapped in a plastic bag).
There are some exceptions to these rules: medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.
I would suggest having everything sorted and in the proper size bottles and bags before going through security--each time they stop the line to check carry-on items it causes a back-up and, from personal experience I can tell you that people tend to get cranky.
As of January 1, 2008, the Department of Transportation (DOT) through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) no longer allows loose lithium batteries in checked baggage. Keep batteries and equipment with you, or in carry-on baggage, not in your checked baggage! It has something to do with a fire hazard and the situation can be better controlled if the batteries are in your carry bag or purse.
In August, 2008, TSA came up with new guidelines for laptop computers. To help streamline the security process and better protect laptops the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow passengers to leave their laptop computers in bags that meet new "checkpoint friendly" standards. For a bag to be considered checkpoint friendly it should meet a designated laptop-only section:
Have a safe trip and travel lightly.
In preparation for my trip to Australia I actually bought new luggage. With the strict weight regulations on some airlines, I decided lighter luggage could mean an extra pair of shoes and another blouse, important items in any woman’s wardrobe.
In the LA Times Travel Section (March 22, 2009) I read about some new “feather-light” luggage that just came on the market. The article claimed it was the lightest luggage on the market with the 19-inch carry-on weighing less than 4.6 pounds and the 30-inch case weighing less than 6 pounds. Wow, that sounded impressive. I immediately went to the garage and pulled out my old faithful, 26-inch case that has traveled with me around the world. I knew it felt heavy, but I was surprised to see that it actually weighed 13.5 pounds, empty. If their big case weighs less that 6 pounds, the difference could mean more than just an extra pair of shoes and a blouse, maybe another pair of pants or even a sweater set.
I ordered the luggage. When it arrived at my office a week later the first thing I did was pick up the box. It felt light--the two together felt lighter than my one big suitcase. I took the cases out of the box and was amazed when I picked them up. They really are lightweight. I ordered the 26-inch case, which weighs 5.10 pounds and the 19-inch carry-on weighed in at 4.6 pounds, as was advertised. They are sturdy, according to the literature on the bags, they are made using ultra-light fiberglass frames.
What did I pay for these lightweight, sturdy bags? The 26-inch bag was on sale for $99.95 and the carry-on cost $79.95. I ordered them online from discountluggage.com. They come in black and red. Neither case has the expandable zipper that lets you stuff those last minute souvenirs into your suitcase. You’ll have to do what I do, buy jewelry; it doesn’t take up any room at all!!!My clients often ask me if I lock my bags. The answer is yes, and I use a TSA lock. TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has worked with several companies to develop locks that can be opened by security officers using universal "master" keys, so that the locks may not have to be cut. The locks are combination locks, either three or four numbers.
If you travel infrequently, you may be interested in some of the newer regulations concerning what you can and cannot take in your carry-on bag and checked luggage. The catchphrase for carry-on bags is 3-1-1: any liquid or gel must go into a 3.4oz. bottle or less, all bottles need to be put in a quart size plastic bag, one bag per person going through security.
Obviously, 3-1-1 is for shorter trips. Since most of my trips are two to three weeks I put most of my liquids in my checked luggage (wrapped in a plastic bag).
There are some exceptions to these rules: medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.
I would suggest having everything sorted and in the proper size bottles and bags before going through security--each time they stop the line to check carry-on items it causes a back-up and, from personal experience I can tell you that people tend to get cranky.
As of January 1, 2008, the Department of Transportation (DOT) through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) no longer allows loose lithium batteries in checked baggage. Keep batteries and equipment with you, or in carry-on baggage, not in your checked baggage! It has something to do with a fire hazard and the situation can be better controlled if the batteries are in your carry bag or purse.
In August, 2008, TSA came up with new guidelines for laptop computers. To help streamline the security process and better protect laptops the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow passengers to leave their laptop computers in bags that meet new "checkpoint friendly" standards. For a bag to be considered checkpoint friendly it should meet a designated laptop-only section:
- The laptop-only section completely unfolds to lie flat on the X-ray belt,
- No metal snaps, zippers or buckles inside, underneath or on top of the laptop-only section,
- No pockets on the inside or outside of the laptop-only section, and
- Nothing packed in the laptop-only section other than the computer itself
Have a safe trip and travel lightly.
TIP: Lost Luggage and Passport Safety
For the past several weeks I have been traveling and can’t wait to share with you my adventures on the Black Sea. I still get excited when I have the opportunity to visit new places and this was a new destination for me. I had been to Istanbul and Athens before, but had never visited the Ukraine, Bulgaria or Romania. I absolutely loved Romania and hopefully will have an opportunity to see more of Romania in the next year or so.
Before I start my articles on the Black Sea, I want to cover a few subjects near and dear to my heart: reading and understanding your itinerary prior to travel, lost luggage and passport safety.
I can’t emphasize enough the need to read your travel itinerary prior to leaving on your trip. Most of the time travel agents go over the itinerary with their clients to make sure all the reservations are correct. However, there are times when clients are in a hurry or they request the travel agent mail the documents. Even though we strongly suggest the client go through their documents upon receipt, that does not always happen. I have heard horror stories of clients getting to the airport only to find their flight was scheduled for the previous day (or the following day) or the mini-van they thought they reserved turned out to be a mini car. None of this is funny and it’s a travel agent’s biggest nightmare. The best way to avoid the problem is to read your documents and make sure you have what you paid for and what you expect.
Every passenger hopes their luggage will end up in the same city they are flying into. Unfortunately, that does not always happen. Lost or misplaced luggage has become a major problem for the airlines and a headache for the passenger. You would think with all the bar codes, flight numbers and city codes, lost luggage would be a thing of the past. Not so. Here are some suggestions that may help in the future:
---When you check your luggage, make sure the agent types in the correct city code. We’re all familiar with LAX, but what about Sacramento (SMF) or Nashville (BNA). Know the three-letter city code of the city you are flying into and make sure the luggage tag is correct.
---Make sure your name tag is securely attached to your luggage. I slide my business card into my luggage tag so it has my business address and telephone number. It’s never a good idea to put your home address on your name tag. You don’t want wandering eyes to know that your home is vacant, while you’re traveling. Also, be sure to put a name tag inside your suitcase, just in case the outside one gets torn off.
When going on a cruise, always go in at least one day prior to embarkation. Between airline cancellations and missed connections, you definitely want to give yourself an extra day just in case you or your luggage doesn’t show up due to airline scheduling, weather conditions, etc. Most cruise companies offer one or two night pre-packages. If they are too expensive ask your travel agent to look for a less expensive hotel. However, when you don’t reserve the hotel through the cruise company you may have to find your own way to the port--complimentary transfers are usually not included. In the long run, it may be less expensive to book the hotel through the cruise company.
So what’s your next step when the carousel stops and one or all of your bags does not appear? Head to the airline claim counter with your checked baggage tags in hand. If you were on two different airlines, go to the counter of the last airline you flew. Like it or not--they are responsible for finding your luggage.
Next, ascertain if your luggage is delayed or missing. On my last trip I flew from LAX to Istanbul via Frankfurt. In Istanbul my luggage was not on the carousel. I went to the Lufthansa claim counter and using the bar code on my claim tags we discovered that my bags were still in Frankfurt and would arrive in Istanbul the following morning. They apologized for my inconvenience and gave me an emergency overnight kit with toothbrush, toothpaste, comb and brush, a t-shirt, hand cream and other incidentals. My suitcases were at the Four Seasons the following morning. I had also packed a complete change of clothes in my carry-on, just in case. They definitely came in handy.
What happens if your luggage is missing? You might think that with all the bar-coding, scanning, bag-matching, and security in general, it is impossible for bags and passengers to get separated. Unfortunately, it is still very possible for this to happen, and--suggestion--don't get into a detailed and heated discussion on this point with the lost baggage claim representative at the airport! It isn't his fault and it isn't something he can control or fix. By all means write a letter to the airline subsequently, but for now, concentrate on resolving your missing bag problem as best you can.
If the baggage claim representative does tell you your bag is currently completely lost, don't panic. 98 percentof all bags that are missing at this stage will be found in the next four or five days, and most of those will be found in the first 24 - 48 hours. Keep in contact with the airline and make sure they know where to find you---even if you’ll be on a cruise ship in the Black Sea.
Some airlines now have websites where you can key in their lost bag tracking number and get real time information on the status of the bag. Other airlines force you to rely on old fashioned phone calls, and usually they do not have 24 hour service at their lost bag centers. Get--and give-- as much contact information as possible.
Make sure you ask them when is the soonest they might get an update on the bag's status.
On the brighter side of things, let’s hope you bought travel insurance and that your policy contains a lost luggage reimbursement. That, plus airline reimbursement (that’s negotiable), should enable you to pick up a few outfits to get you through your vacation. If you bought new clothes for your trip, keep the receipts until you get home. You may need to make copies to send to the insurance company.
Passport security. When you’re staying in a foreign city I strongly suggest you leave your passport in the safe at your hotel. If there is no safe in your room, use the safe at the front desk. I carry a COPY of my passport in my wallet for identification, but not my passport. If you have ever lost a passport when traveling you will understand exactly what I am saying. To get a passport replaced in a foreign country takes time and patience. To avoid the problem, keep your passport at your hotel under lock and key.
Hopefully these hints will prove helpful for your next trip. Have fun and stay safe.
Before I start my articles on the Black Sea, I want to cover a few subjects near and dear to my heart: reading and understanding your itinerary prior to travel, lost luggage and passport safety.
I can’t emphasize enough the need to read your travel itinerary prior to leaving on your trip. Most of the time travel agents go over the itinerary with their clients to make sure all the reservations are correct. However, there are times when clients are in a hurry or they request the travel agent mail the documents. Even though we strongly suggest the client go through their documents upon receipt, that does not always happen. I have heard horror stories of clients getting to the airport only to find their flight was scheduled for the previous day (or the following day) or the mini-van they thought they reserved turned out to be a mini car. None of this is funny and it’s a travel agent’s biggest nightmare. The best way to avoid the problem is to read your documents and make sure you have what you paid for and what you expect.
Every passenger hopes their luggage will end up in the same city they are flying into. Unfortunately, that does not always happen. Lost or misplaced luggage has become a major problem for the airlines and a headache for the passenger. You would think with all the bar codes, flight numbers and city codes, lost luggage would be a thing of the past. Not so. Here are some suggestions that may help in the future:
---When you check your luggage, make sure the agent types in the correct city code. We’re all familiar with LAX, but what about Sacramento (SMF) or Nashville (BNA). Know the three-letter city code of the city you are flying into and make sure the luggage tag is correct.
---Make sure your name tag is securely attached to your luggage. I slide my business card into my luggage tag so it has my business address and telephone number. It’s never a good idea to put your home address on your name tag. You don’t want wandering eyes to know that your home is vacant, while you’re traveling. Also, be sure to put a name tag inside your suitcase, just in case the outside one gets torn off.
When going on a cruise, always go in at least one day prior to embarkation. Between airline cancellations and missed connections, you definitely want to give yourself an extra day just in case you or your luggage doesn’t show up due to airline scheduling, weather conditions, etc. Most cruise companies offer one or two night pre-packages. If they are too expensive ask your travel agent to look for a less expensive hotel. However, when you don’t reserve the hotel through the cruise company you may have to find your own way to the port--complimentary transfers are usually not included. In the long run, it may be less expensive to book the hotel through the cruise company.
So what’s your next step when the carousel stops and one or all of your bags does not appear? Head to the airline claim counter with your checked baggage tags in hand. If you were on two different airlines, go to the counter of the last airline you flew. Like it or not--they are responsible for finding your luggage.
Next, ascertain if your luggage is delayed or missing. On my last trip I flew from LAX to Istanbul via Frankfurt. In Istanbul my luggage was not on the carousel. I went to the Lufthansa claim counter and using the bar code on my claim tags we discovered that my bags were still in Frankfurt and would arrive in Istanbul the following morning. They apologized for my inconvenience and gave me an emergency overnight kit with toothbrush, toothpaste, comb and brush, a t-shirt, hand cream and other incidentals. My suitcases were at the Four Seasons the following morning. I had also packed a complete change of clothes in my carry-on, just in case. They definitely came in handy.
What happens if your luggage is missing? You might think that with all the bar-coding, scanning, bag-matching, and security in general, it is impossible for bags and passengers to get separated. Unfortunately, it is still very possible for this to happen, and--suggestion--don't get into a detailed and heated discussion on this point with the lost baggage claim representative at the airport! It isn't his fault and it isn't something he can control or fix. By all means write a letter to the airline subsequently, but for now, concentrate on resolving your missing bag problem as best you can.
If the baggage claim representative does tell you your bag is currently completely lost, don't panic. 98 percentof all bags that are missing at this stage will be found in the next four or five days, and most of those will be found in the first 24 - 48 hours. Keep in contact with the airline and make sure they know where to find you---even if you’ll be on a cruise ship in the Black Sea.
Some airlines now have websites where you can key in their lost bag tracking number and get real time information on the status of the bag. Other airlines force you to rely on old fashioned phone calls, and usually they do not have 24 hour service at their lost bag centers. Get--and give-- as much contact information as possible.
Make sure you ask them when is the soonest they might get an update on the bag's status.
--Ask what hours their lost bag service center is open for taking phone calls.
--Ask them how they will get your bag to you, and how long that takes from when the bag arrives on a flight to when it is delivered to your hotel/home/wherever.
--Ask them how long it would be before your bag is declared lost and gone for good. Will you then need to fill out a lost bag form (almost certainly, yes). If so, and just in case the worst does come to the worst, can you take a copy of that form with you now, so as to avoid an extra trip to the airport?
--Ask them how they will get your bag to you, and how long that takes from when the bag arrives on a flight to when it is delivered to your hotel/home/wherever.
--Ask them how long it would be before your bag is declared lost and gone for good. Will you then need to fill out a lost bag form (almost certainly, yes). If so, and just in case the worst does come to the worst, can you take a copy of that form with you now, so as to avoid an extra trip to the airport?
On the brighter side of things, let’s hope you bought travel insurance and that your policy contains a lost luggage reimbursement. That, plus airline reimbursement (that’s negotiable), should enable you to pick up a few outfits to get you through your vacation. If you bought new clothes for your trip, keep the receipts until you get home. You may need to make copies to send to the insurance company.
Passport security. When you’re staying in a foreign city I strongly suggest you leave your passport in the safe at your hotel. If there is no safe in your room, use the safe at the front desk. I carry a COPY of my passport in my wallet for identification, but not my passport. If you have ever lost a passport when traveling you will understand exactly what I am saying. To get a passport replaced in a foreign country takes time and patience. To avoid the problem, keep your passport at your hotel under lock and key.
Hopefully these hints will prove helpful for your next trip. Have fun and stay safe.
...and if you'dl ike to join me on another adventure somewhere in the world, check my upcoming trips at:
...........................
Have you lost your luggage or passport? Have any advice for other travelers? Tell me about it.... Click "comments" at the end of the column.
TIP: Rail or Car in Europe?
Even though the dollar is weak against the Euro, people are still asking about trips to Europe and the British Isles. There are many ways to travel through Europe--you can join a tour, take the train or even rent a car and drive. There’s no one way or better way, only the way you feel most comfortable. When clients ask me to help plan their trip, we talk about all the options.
I recently read an article that compared road travel with rail travel in Europe. The article was interesting and brought up the pros and cons of both modes of transportation. Train travel has a long history in Europe--trains go everywhere, or almost everywhere. It was once the cheapest way to travel, short of hoofing your way across the continent or sticking out your thumb. Today, rail passes are no longer the bargain they once were. In the latest study by Travel Age West, they found the cost of rail and auto travel very comparable when two or more people are traveling together cost of gasoline has always been more expensive in Europe, so that was not a significant factor in the study.)
---Traveling alone: Rail is almost always the better deal for the solo traveler. In most cases, the cost of a rental car, tolls and gasoline will be about twice as much as the cost of the train.
---Visiting only a few major cities: Train travel between the major cities of Europe is gen
---Traveling on day of arrival: After a grueling, 10 hour, overnight flight, I would hate to pick up a rental car and drive for any length of time. Sometimes it’s better to take the train to your first location and rest a day before picking up a car.
---Save on hotel rooms: During my youth, when I was working and living in Europe, I found taking a night train and reserving a “couchette” saved me the cost of a hotel. You also meet lots of interesting people. On one trip between Nuremburg (Germany) and London, I shared my compartment with five members of the German Soccer team. Unfortunately they spoke very little English and my German was very rusty, but we managed to communicate and had a fun trip.
The reasons for renting a car are just as compelling:
---Traveling with the family: Whenever three or more people are traveling together, a car becomes the most economical way to get around Europe. However, after arriving in a city, park the car and take public transportation.
---Escaping other tourists. Travelers with cars can escape major tourist centers and have the opportunity to discover parts of Europe that are not overrun with tourists.
As I said at the beginning of the article, there is no one-way, or right way, to see Europe. For the most part, the roads in Europe are fantastic. You drive on the same side of the street as you do in the US. But if driving is not your thing, you hate to read a map and won’t ask for directions (for a bit extra you can now request a GPS unit in your rental car which is really nice if you’re not one to ask for directions), than you should consider the merits of a planned tour. Or if you’re just traveling between large cities, absolutely consider the train.
Rail Europe has published a wonderful brochure, Europe on Track, which talks about the different rail packages offered. There are packages that combine three days of train travel with three days of a car rental. The train also offers discounts for students and for two or more people traveling together. There are flex passes that allows travel for four, five or seven days within a two-month period. Remember, all Eurail passes have to be purchased in the United States.
My last word of advice when planning your trip to Europe, don’t try to see everything. Pick a country or a region, and explore. Have a great trip.
I recently read an article that compared road travel with rail travel in Europe. The article was interesting and brought up the pros and cons of both modes of transportation. Train travel has a long history in Europe--trains go everywhere, or almost everywhere. It was once the cheapest way to travel, short of hoofing your way across the continent or sticking out your thumb. Today, rail passes are no longer the bargain they once were. In the latest study by Travel Age West, they found the cost of rail and auto travel very comparable when two or more people are traveling together cost of gasoline has always been more expensive in Europe, so that was not a significant factor in the study.)However, there are still plenty of reasons to take the train, according to the article:
---Traveling alone: Rail is almost always the better deal for the solo traveler. In most cases, the cost of a rental car, tolls and gasoline will be about twice as much as the cost of the train.
---Visiting only a few major cities: Train travel between the major cities of Europe is gen
erally fast and easy and public transportation within the cities is good. You definitely don’t want to drive in the big cities, as the traffic is terrible, plus parking is a nightmare. However, before rushing out to buy a rail pass, compare the price of a point-to-point rail ticket; the passes are not always the best deal if you are visiting only a handful of cities.
---Check out the road conditions: The deciding factor here is the difficulty of driving mountain roads in many European countries. A lot depends on the time of year you are traveling. The mountain roads in Switzerland in the middle of winter would be treacherous. During the summer the roads are very crowded with tourists. Trains allow passengers to enjoy the beautiful scenery and leave the driving to them.
---Traveling on day of arrival: After a grueling, 10 hour, overnight flight, I would hate to pick up a rental car and drive for any length of time. Sometimes it’s better to take the train to your first location and rest a day before picking up a car.
---Save on hotel rooms: During my youth, when I was working and living in Europe, I found taking a night train and reserving a “couchette” saved me the cost of a hotel. You also meet lots of interesting people. On one trip between Nuremburg (Germany) and London, I shared my compartment with five members of the German Soccer team. Unfortunately they spoke very little English and my German was very rusty, but we managed to communicate and had a fun trip.
The reasons for renting a car are just as compelling:
---Exploring small towns and the countryside: a car is the only way to reach many small towns, inns and castles, historical sites, natural attractions, roadside shrines and other interesting places not served by the train. If time is a major factor you can also take the train to the larger cities and either rent a car from there or take a tour to visit the nearby attractions.
---Traveling with the family: Whenever three or more people are traveling together, a car becomes the most economical way to get around Europe. However, after arriving in a city, park the car and take public transportation. ---Rambling: My favorite. No timetables, no running to catch a train or plane. You can leave when you want to leave, stop when you want to stop. If you are a wanderer by nature and like to do things on a whim, you really need to have a car in Europe.
---Eating and drinking off the beaten path. Many interesting restaurants and vineyards of Europe are well off the rail lines; in fact, the Michelin Red Guides list hundreds of eateries and lodges that are not reachable by train. Plus, there is nothing better than stopping in a small town to pick up some freshly baked bread, cheese from the neighborhood dairy and wine from the local vineyard, and have yourselves a picnic.
---Escaping other tourists. Travelers with cars can escape major tourist centers and have the opportunity to discover parts of Europe that are not overrun with tourists.
As I said at the beginning of the article, there is no one-way, or right way, to see Europe. For the most part, the roads in Europe are fantastic. You drive on the same side of the street as you do in the US. But if driving is not your thing, you hate to read a map and won’t ask for directions (for a bit extra you can now request a GPS unit in your rental car which is really nice if you’re not one to ask for directions), than you should consider the merits of a planned tour. Or if you’re just traveling between large cities, absolutely consider the train.
Rail Europe has published a wonderful brochure, Europe on Track, which talks about the different rail packages offered. There are packages that combine three days of train travel with three days of a car rental. The train also offers discounts for students and for two or more people traveling together. There are flex passes that allows travel for four, five or seven days within a two-month period. Remember, all Eurail passes have to be purchased in the United States.
My last word of advice when planning your trip to Europe, don’t try to see everything. Pick a country or a region, and explore. Have a great trip.
Have you experienced Europe by rail or car? Click on "Comments" and tell me which you preferred.
Need help planning a trip? Get in touch with us at
TIP: Baggage fees and limits, passport check
So much is happening with travel in today’s economy, it really is hard to keep up.It’s not a secret that gas prices are through the roof. The cost of oil worldwide has definitely affected the cost of an airline ticket---everywhere. In defense of the airlines, they really have no choice but to pass on their increased costs, I just don’t like the way they are doing it! Fuel surcharges, like security charges, have been added directly to the cost of an airline ticket, and that does not seem unreasonable. However, that has not been enough to cover the skyrocketing cost of fuel. Many of the US airlines have now started charging for checked luggage. Of course, each airline’s policy is a little different and is changing rapidly, so I do suggest you contact your carrier immediately prior to travel.
American Airlines is not the only airline that is charging for all checked luggage. United and U.S. Air will also be charging $15.00 for the first bag and $25.00 for the second bag. That fee is in each direction. So far Delta and Continental are still allowing one free checked bag. If you plan to check a second bag it will cost you $25.00.
Most of the airlines are also cracking down on overweight luggage. When my daughter, Heather, flew to New York the end of May, Delta Airlines charged her an additional $80.00 for one of her checked bags because it weighed 54 pounds--four pounds over the legal limit. Most of the other airlines are only charging an extra $50.00 for luggage weighing between 51 and 70 pounds. For over 70 pounds it will cost an extra $100.00. It does seem prudent to make sure your luggage is within the 50 lbs limit, or take a second bag, even if it costs $25.00.As for carry-on luggage, most of the airlines are still allowing one bag plus one personal item, i.e. a purse, a briefcase, a laptop computer, camera case, etc. The weight limit for the carry-on bag is 40lbs and a maximum of 45 inches (total length plus width plus height).
Most of the rules above are for domestic travel. Most international rules regarding checked luggage have not changed: two checked bags (no charge), maximum weight is 70lbs with no one bag weighing more than 50lbs. I’m sure there are exceptions to these rules so I would definitely check with the airline prior to your trip.
Most of these restrictions apply to passengers in economy class. Business and first class passengers can check up to two pieces of luggage at no additional charge. Also, for those members of mileage programs that have reached “gold” status, the rules for checked luggage have been waived on most airlines
Since the baggage rules have taken effect, or will be enforced soon, I have read several articles about traveling light, packing suggestions, traveling with only a carry-on bag, etc. That is fine if you can do it. However, remember that there are still rules regarding liquids, pointed or sharp objects, batteries, etc in carry-on luggage. If you’re going for a long weekend you might be able to get away with small bottles (3 oz) of liquids--shampoo, conditioner, cleansers, liquid make-up, contact lens solution, etc. It may even be cost effective to leave those items home and buy travel size bottles when you arrive at your destination. Don’t forget to pick up a razor while you’re at it. I personally prefer to check a bag with all the restricted items than worry about what I forgot.
I can certainly understand airlines passing on higher costs, however, I would prefer them raising the cost of an airline ticket than nickel and diming everyone with luggage fees, soft drink charges (some airlines have started charging $2.00 for soda) and other fees they will most likely tack on in the future. Southwest has a great ad showing people scrambling for change to get into the bathroom on a competitor’s airline. To my knowledge that hasn’t happened yet, but anything is possible. By the way, Southwest Airlines is not charging for checked luggage, soda or peanuts.
It’s been several weeks since I asked everyone to check the expiration date on their passport. I thought by this time most people who were planning to travel had either applied for a new passport or had renewed their existing passport. Wrong. Most countries today are requiring at least six months be left on your passport from the return date of travel-- and that rule is being enforced. I realize the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative has relaxed its rules concerning everyone needing a passport by January 2008, when traveling outside the United States. The biggest problem was the sheer number of people who applied for passports. There were an overwhelming number of passport applications and the backlog kept growing. That problem has been resolved with additional employees, so if you’re planning on traveling outside the US this year, I would download a passport application or pick one up at the post office. Start your application process now.
If you need to talk with a travel agent, please call Redlands Travel Service (800-339-8417/909-792-8100),
TIP: Have a professional on your team!
It’s nice to have a travel professional on your team.
I often get calls at the office from people who are planning a trip using the Internet, and want information about hotels, airline flights, car rentals, etc. I even get calls from people who have already made their reservations on the Internet and now want to change them, and ask for our help.
I often get calls at the office from people who are planning a trip using the Internet, and want information about hotels, airline flights, car rentals, etc. I even get calls from people who have already made their reservations on the Internet and now want to change them, and ask for our help.
Over the years I’ve written numerous columns explaining the importance of using a travel professional when booking travel. What took place last week, with the demise of three airlines, the difference between going “online” and working with a travel professional became even more apparent. When I heard the news that Aloha Airlines had filed for Chapter 11, I immediately looked up all our clients that were holding tickets on Aloha Airlines, called them, and attempted to rebook them on any available flights. The same thing happened a few days later when American Trans Air declared bankruptcy. I heard the announcement at 5:00AM when I turned on the morning news and was in the office by 6:00 to see if any of our clients were caught in this unfortunate turn of events. And I wasn’t alone.
On Saturday, April 4th, I was at a travel conference in Los Angeles and heard the same story time after time, travel agents scrambling to find flights for their clients who were ticketed on either Aloha or American Trans Air. I wonder if Travelosity or Orbits were also on the phone, notifying people who used their sites and purchased tickets through the Internet?
I’ve come to the conclusion that some people are under the impression that they get far better rates on tours, hotels, cars, cruises, airfares, etc. over the Internet. Most of the time that is not the case. Plus many people purchase their vacation package and really don’t know exactly what they have purchased. Also, when you book a cruise directly with the cruise company, a Hawaiian vacation directly with Pleasant Hawaiian Holidays, a biking or hiking trip with Backroads, a rafting trip through Row Adventures or a European trip directly with Globus Vacations, for example, the price is not any lower than if you booked it with a travel agent. What you do get for the same price is the same reservations through a travel agent, with the bonus that you have a professional on your team, someone who takes care of any problems that might arise and makes sure you get what you pay for.
First, let me clear up some confusion about how travel agents get paid. The cruise companies, the tour companies (wholesalers that put together packages to Hawaii, Mexico, Europe, etc.), hotels and car companies pay commissions to the travel agent. Because the airlines no longer pay commissions to travel agents, most travel agencies have attached a fee for airline reservations and ticketing, from $25.00 to $35.00 per ticket. Some agencies have also created a “plan to go” fee, usually $100.00 for their expertise in putting together a custom trip. That fee is usually applied toward the reservation and deducted from the final payment. If you decide not to go, the fee is non-refundable and pays for the travel agent’s time and knowledge.
For example: if you go to an accountant to have your income taxes done and he spends an hour or so talking to you, and then you decide you’ll do it yourself on Turbo Tax, should you have to pay for the original appointment? If you go to a lawyer to draw up a will and then decide you can do it yourself online, should you have to pay for the time you originally spent with the lawyer? Absolutely. Why is it different with a travel agent? Professionals should be paid for their expertise.
I’ve traveled extensively and have a lot of experience from which I’m able to draw. I use reliable companies for my clients. I have my favorite hotels (from experience) in Paris, Rome, London and many other locations. I’ll tell you if there is construction going on at the Four Seasons in Lanai and suggest an alternative hotel or destination. Is August a good time to take a Caribbean Cruise? I’ll talk to you about insurance, is it always necessary? Should you drive from Rome to Florence or is it better to take the train? Do you need to reserve seats on European trains? The list goes on and on.
If you don’t travel extensively, there are many terms used by the airlines, cruise companies, tour operators and insurance companies that are confusing.
What is the difference between a direct flight and a non-stop flight? A non-stop flight goes from point A to point B, without a stop, i.e. LAX to Miami. Some flights, though they appear to be non-stop when you look on the computer, can actually stop one or two times prior to your final destination, but you do not change planes, i.e. LAX to Miami with a stopover in Dallas. That is considered a direct flight.
What is the difference between ‘bulk” air and published air? These terms are usually associated with tour operators that have contracts directly with the airlines. Many large tour companies, because of the large number of people they send to specific destination, have contracted with the airline for a lower price on certain routes. Examples of this are LAX to Maui or Honolulu. A tour company may be able to get you a ticket to Maui, as part of your vacation package, for $400.00 roundtrip. When you try to book it on the computer, that same flight may cost you $500.00.
On the subject of travel insurance--when you purchase travel insurance be sure to ask your travel agent what it covers. Most of the time it is for medical reasons or illness or death in the immediate family. It will not cover you if you decide to get a divorce, are called to jury duty, or are refused a visa (into a country) after you bought your trip and purchased airline tickets. It’s also important when you purchase your insurance. If you purchase your insurance within a certain time limit of paying your deposit (usually a week to 10 days) the insurance will cover pre-existing medical conditions. If you have been under a doctor’s care for a heart condition and you end up canceling your trip due to a heart attack six months down the road, your insurance would pickup any cancellation fees incurred. Many insurance premiums also cover lost baggage, trip cancellation insurance, trip delay, medical evacuation, doctor’s visits, etc. Also, most travel insurance sold by independent companies is based on the cost of the trip and your age. Talk to your travel professional to see what type policy would be best for you.
If you’re planning a trip in the near future, remember, call your favorite travel agent and have a professional on your team.
I’ve come to the conclusion that some people are under the impression that they get far better rates on tours, hotels, cars, cruises, airfares, etc. over the Internet. Most of the time that is not the case. Plus many people purchase their vacation package and really don’t know exactly what they have purchased. Also, when you book a cruise directly with the cruise company, a Hawaiian vacation directly with Pleasant Hawaiian Holidays, a biking or hiking trip with Backroads, a rafting trip through Row Adventures or a European trip directly with Globus Vacations, for example, the price is not any lower than if you booked it with a travel agent. What you do get for the same price is the same reservations through a travel agent, with the bonus that you have a professional on your team, someone who takes care of any problems that might arise and makes sure you get what you pay for.
First, let me clear up some confusion about how travel agents get paid. The cruise companies, the tour companies (wholesalers that put together packages to Hawaii, Mexico, Europe, etc.), hotels and car companies pay commissions to the travel agent. Because the airlines no longer pay commissions to travel agents, most travel agencies have attached a fee for airline reservations and ticketing, from $25.00 to $35.00 per ticket. Some agencies have also created a “plan to go” fee, usually $100.00 for their expertise in putting together a custom trip. That fee is usually applied toward the reservation and deducted from the final payment. If you decide not to go, the fee is non-refundable and pays for the travel agent’s time and knowledge.
For example: if you go to an accountant to have your income taxes done and he spends an hour or so talking to you, and then you decide you’ll do it yourself on Turbo Tax, should you have to pay for the original appointment? If you go to a lawyer to draw up a will and then decide you can do it yourself online, should you have to pay for the time you originally spent with the lawyer? Absolutely. Why is it different with a travel agent? Professionals should be paid for their expertise.
I’ve traveled extensively and have a lot of experience from which I’m able to draw. I use reliable companies for my clients. I have my favorite hotels (from experience) in Paris, Rome, London and many other locations. I’ll tell you if there is construction going on at the Four Seasons in Lanai and suggest an alternative hotel or destination. Is August a good time to take a Caribbean Cruise? I’ll talk to you about insurance, is it always necessary? Should you drive from Rome to Florence or is it better to take the train? Do you need to reserve seats on European trains? The list goes on and on.
If you don’t travel extensively, there are many terms used by the airlines, cruise companies, tour operators and insurance companies that are confusing.
What is the difference between a direct flight and a non-stop flight? A non-stop flight goes from point A to point B, without a stop, i.e. LAX to Miami. Some flights, though they appear to be non-stop when you look on the computer, can actually stop one or two times prior to your final destination, but you do not change planes, i.e. LAX to Miami with a stopover in Dallas. That is considered a direct flight.
What is the difference between ‘bulk” air and published air? These terms are usually associated with tour operators that have contracts directly with the airlines. Many large tour companies, because of the large number of people they send to specific destination, have contracted with the airline for a lower price on certain routes. Examples of this are LAX to Maui or Honolulu. A tour company may be able to get you a ticket to Maui, as part of your vacation package, for $400.00 roundtrip. When you try to book it on the computer, that same flight may cost you $500.00.
On the subject of travel insurance--when you purchase travel insurance be sure to ask your travel agent what it covers. Most of the time it is for medical reasons or illness or death in the immediate family. It will not cover you if you decide to get a divorce, are called to jury duty, or are refused a visa (into a country) after you bought your trip and purchased airline tickets. It’s also important when you purchase your insurance. If you purchase your insurance within a certain time limit of paying your deposit (usually a week to 10 days) the insurance will cover pre-existing medical conditions. If you have been under a doctor’s care for a heart condition and you end up canceling your trip due to a heart attack six months down the road, your insurance would pickup any cancellation fees incurred. Many insurance premiums also cover lost baggage, trip cancellation insurance, trip delay, medical evacuation, doctor’s visits, etc. Also, most travel insurance sold by independent companies is based on the cost of the trip and your age. Talk to your travel professional to see what type policy would be best for you.
If you’re planning a trip in the near future, remember, call your favorite travel agent and have a professional on your team.
TIP: Lessons learned to have a smoother trip
2008 has been the worst year ever in the United States for flight delays and cancellations. Due to oil prices and the economy, many airlines have cut the number of flights by almost 25 percent. With fewer planes in the air, the remaining flights are now filled to capacity. If you should miss a flight, or if your flight is cancelled at the last minute, finding a seat on another flight may be impossible. I know from personal experience how frustrating it is to have your outbound flight delayed, only to miss your connecting flight and have to spend the night at the airport. In the past few years I have changed my own “flying” patterns. Here are some tips that might help you avoid those travel inconveniences that can put a real damper on your vacation or business trip.
I try hard to find a non-stop flight to my destination. That is often difficult to do out of Ontario, so I bite the bullet and drive into LAX. If I’m leaving on a cruise, I usually go in a day or two early, so I don’t have to worry about luggage or making a connecting flight. Also, during the winter months when weather can be iffy, I try never to fly through Denver or Chicago if I’m flying east; you’re asking for problems and the probability of a flight delay is high. Many years ago I was stranded in Chicago in a mid-winter storm. It took me two days to get out.
If there are no non-stop flights to my destination, I build extra time into my itinerary for the connection. I swear the airlines are in “lala” land when they schedule only 45 minutes between flights in Dallas or Chicago. It may be a legitimate connection, meaning the airline will protect you on another flight if you miss your connection, but the chances of making the connection are mighty slim. Plus, I’m anxious the entire flight wondering if I’ll make the connection along with my luggage. It’s not worth the anxiety. I now schedule myself at least two or more hours between flights. I bring a book or sit and people watch. Airports are great for people watching. It sure beats missing my connection and possibly spending a day or two waiting for an available flight to my destination.
On my trip home from New Jersey this past October I had a four-hour layover in Atlanta. I read, got a flu shot, and listened to a pilot give an explanation on why his flight was going to be delayed for at least an hour. Actually, I was very impressed how concerned the captain was that his flight was late. Usually no one tells you anything. This captain gave updated accounts every fifteen minutes. Most unusual and very refreshing. There is hope for the airlines yet!
Certain flights are chronically late. All airlines try to compete and schedule flights near the same time. If Delta, American and United all have flights going to Chicago between 9:00am and 9:05 am, you know they cannot all take off on time; there are just not enough runways. As the day goes on, planes begin to back up and sometimes you have an hour wait on the tarmac just to take off. Most of the time I try to book the first flight of the day to my destination. It’s similar to making a doctor’s appointment--I usually don’t have to wait if I’m the first appointment of the morning.
I really do try to cover all my bases. Before leaving for a trip, particularly if I have connecting flights, I check to see what my alternatives are if I miss my connection or my outbound flight is delayed or cancelled. Some airlines will put you on a competitor’s next flight out if the delay or cancellation was their fault (i.e. mechanical problem). Others won’t. If you’ve joined the computer age and your flight is delayed, just pull out your Blackberry and pull up the Official Airline Guide so you can see the alternate flights available and book them. If you’re technologically challenged, I suggest you line up at the airline counter and call your travel agent on your cell phone and have her book you on the next flight out. By the time you get to the front of the line your reservations will be waiting for you. If you don’t have a travel agent (shame on you), call the airline. It’s important that you try to make a reservation since there will be a lot of other people in the same situation and everyone wants a flight out.
Sometimes all the preparation is for naught. Sometimes there is absolutely nothing you can do to salvage the day; you’re booked on the next flight out and that’s not for another four hours. I remember traveling with children; keeping them from getting bored was always a top priority. Make sure you have books, games and plenty of DVDs (a DVD player also helps!!!) Also, many airlines sell day passes to their club lounges, a more attractive option than sitting at the gate in uncomfortable chairs for several hours.
If you’re heading out for a special occasion, i.e. a wedding, funeral, Bar Mitzvah or a special birthday celebration, and your flight is cancelled or delayed, and you’re going to miss the event entirely, let the airline know and request a refund. I’m not promising anything, but it’s sure worth a try.
Once upon a time, “getting there” was half the fun. Today, traveling is more difficult with all the restrictions imposed by the Department for Homeland Security and several other government agencies--all for our own safety. Keep your sense of humor and remember, what doesn’t seem at all funny today will probably make you laugh tomorrow. Happy traveling.
I try hard to find a non-stop flight to my destination. That is often difficult to do out of Ontario, so I bite the bullet and drive into LAX. If I’m leaving on a cruise, I usually go in a day or two early, so I don’t have to worry about luggage or making a connecting flight. Also, during the winter months when weather can be iffy, I try never to fly through Denver or Chicago if I’m flying east; you’re asking for problems and the probability of a flight delay is high. Many years ago I was stranded in Chicago in a mid-winter storm. It took me two days to get out.
If there are no non-stop flights to my destination, I build extra time into my itinerary for the connection. I swear the airlines are in “lala” land when they schedule only 45 minutes between flights in Dallas or Chicago. It may be a legitimate connection, meaning the airline will protect you on another flight if you miss your connection, but the chances of making the connection are mighty slim. Plus, I’m anxious the entire flight wondering if I’ll make the connection along with my luggage. It’s not worth the anxiety. I now schedule myself at least two or more hours between flights. I bring a book or sit and people watch. Airports are great for people watching. It sure beats missing my connection and possibly spending a day or two waiting for an available flight to my destination.
On my trip home from New Jersey this past October I had a four-hour layover in Atlanta. I read, got a flu shot, and listened to a pilot give an explanation on why his flight was going to be delayed for at least an hour. Actually, I was very impressed how concerned the captain was that his flight was late. Usually no one tells you anything. This captain gave updated accounts every fifteen minutes. Most unusual and very refreshing. There is hope for the airlines yet!
Certain flights are chronically late. All airlines try to compete and schedule flights near the same time. If Delta, American and United all have flights going to Chicago between 9:00am and 9:05 am, you know they cannot all take off on time; there are just not enough runways. As the day goes on, planes begin to back up and sometimes you have an hour wait on the tarmac just to take off. Most of the time I try to book the first flight of the day to my destination. It’s similar to making a doctor’s appointment--I usually don’t have to wait if I’m the first appointment of the morning.
I really do try to cover all my bases. Before leaving for a trip, particularly if I have connecting flights, I check to see what my alternatives are if I miss my connection or my outbound flight is delayed or cancelled. Some airlines will put you on a competitor’s next flight out if the delay or cancellation was their fault (i.e. mechanical problem). Others won’t. If you’ve joined the computer age and your flight is delayed, just pull out your Blackberry and pull up the Official Airline Guide so you can see the alternate flights available and book them. If you’re technologically challenged, I suggest you line up at the airline counter and call your travel agent on your cell phone and have her book you on the next flight out. By the time you get to the front of the line your reservations will be waiting for you. If you don’t have a travel agent (shame on you), call the airline. It’s important that you try to make a reservation since there will be a lot of other people in the same situation and everyone wants a flight out.
Sometimes all the preparation is for naught. Sometimes there is absolutely nothing you can do to salvage the day; you’re booked on the next flight out and that’s not for another four hours. I remember traveling with children; keeping them from getting bored was always a top priority. Make sure you have books, games and plenty of DVDs (a DVD player also helps!!!) Also, many airlines sell day passes to their club lounges, a more attractive option than sitting at the gate in uncomfortable chairs for several hours.
If you’re heading out for a special occasion, i.e. a wedding, funeral, Bar Mitzvah or a special birthday celebration, and your flight is cancelled or delayed, and you’re going to miss the event entirely, let the airline know and request a refund. I’m not promising anything, but it’s sure worth a try.
Once upon a time, “getting there” was half the fun. Today, traveling is more difficult with all the restrictions imposed by the Department for Homeland Security and several other government agencies--all for our own safety. Keep your sense of humor and remember, what doesn’t seem at all funny today will probably make you laugh tomorrow. Happy traveling.
Care to comment? Click "comments" at the end of the column.
Want to join us on our next adventure? :
TIP: Now is the time to get your passport
I hope everyone is home safe and sound from your holiday travels. If you're planning any foreign trips in the near future, please check your passport. Rules have changed and your passport needs to be valid a minimum of six months from the date of your return trip.
By Jan. 23, 2007, all U.S. citizens are required to have a valid passport when traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda and all other international destinations.
As of Jan. 1, 2008, all U.S. citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport when crossing any land borders, in addition to air and sea travel. The bottom line here is if you want to travel outside the United States, you'd better have a passport. To help you secure a passport the Redlands post office and the University of Redlands are sponsoring a Passport Faire from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20, in the Hunsaker Center lobby at the university. You must bring the following documentation:
Proof of citizenship: Acceptable documents include a previous passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate issued from your state's Office of Vital Records or a Naturalization Certificate of Citizenship.
Proof of identify: Acceptable documents include a valid state issued driver's license, valid government-issued identification card or military identification card.
Passport photos: Two passport size photos, 2 by 2 inches in size. Photos can be taken on site for an additional $15 per person. The government is very strict regarding passport photos; I do not recommend trying to print your own.
Payment for fees: Payment must be made in cash or by personal check. Do not make checks out until being instructed to do so. If paying by cash, there is an additional 95-cent money order fee. Prices vary with age.
Ages 16 and older: $97 - $67 payable to Passport Services and $30 payable to Postmaster. Your passport is valid for 10 years.
Younger than 16 years: $82 - $52 payable to Passport Services and $30 payable to Postmaster. If you are younger than 16 your passport is valid for only five years.
All applicants must appear in person, including minors under the age of 14. For children under 14, both parents or the child's legal guardian(s) must appear with the child. If only one parent appears, that parent must submit one of the following: the second parent's notarized written statement consenting to the passport issuance for the child, primary evidence of sole authority to apply or a written statement made under the penalty of perjury explaining the second parent's unavailability.
To access forms or obtain travel information, visit the U.S. State Department's Web page at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport1738.html
Today, with all the added security at our airports and borders, it really is important for everyone to have a passport for proper identification.
Speaking of airport security, if you plan to lock your checked luggage, make sure you have Transportation Security Administration-certified locks. If airport security needs to inspect your bags, they won't have to break your lock. You can buy TSA-certified locks at most large stores (Target or Kmart, for example) or luggage stores.
For added safety, just in case your luggage doesn't get to your final destination, make sure you have a luggage tag with your name, current address (business address is preferable), phone numbers both inside and outside your baggage, and a copy of your itinerary. This is the fastest way for the airlines to get your bags back to you when something goes wrong. Several companies have recently come out with tracking luggage tags; they have a unique tracking number to recover lost luggage around the world. I just ordered some for my office; hopefully, I won't have to activate the tracking system.
At check-in, make sure the agent or skycap has tagged your baggage to the correct and final destination. If you're not sure of the airport's three-letter code, ask the agent what the letters on the tag stand for. LAX is easy, BNA (Nashville) or SMF (Sacramento) are not easily recognizable. Use a colorful nametag or ribbon to easily identify your luggage and protect yourself from what the airlines call "bag swaps."
Black luggage is so common; it's easy to see how people can unintentionally pick up the wrong bag. My luggage is bright red and stands out at baggage claim. It's also a good idea to itemize what you packed. If you bought new clothes for your trip, keep the receipts until you get home. If your luggage should be lost, you can turn in the receipts with your insurance claim. Even if you did not take out a travel policy, your homeowner's policy may cover some of the loss. Expensive jewelry or hard-to-replace items should be packed in carry-on luggage, along with prescription medication, cash and travel documents.
Happy traveling.
By Jan. 23, 2007, all U.S. citizens are required to have a valid passport when traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda and all other international destinations.
As of Jan. 1, 2008, all U.S. citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport when crossing any land borders, in addition to air and sea travel. The bottom line here is if you want to travel outside the United States, you'd better have a passport. To help you secure a passport the Redlands post office and the University of Redlands are sponsoring a Passport Faire from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20, in the Hunsaker Center lobby at the university. You must bring the following documentation:
Proof of citizenship: Acceptable documents include a previous passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate issued from your state's Office of Vital Records or a Naturalization Certificate of Citizenship.
Proof of identify: Acceptable documents include a valid state issued driver's license, valid government-issued identification card or military identification card.
Passport photos: Two passport size photos, 2 by 2 inches in size. Photos can be taken on site for an additional $15 per person. The government is very strict regarding passport photos; I do not recommend trying to print your own.
Payment for fees: Payment must be made in cash or by personal check. Do not make checks out until being instructed to do so. If paying by cash, there is an additional 95-cent money order fee. Prices vary with age.
Ages 16 and older: $97 - $67 payable to Passport Services and $30 payable to Postmaster. Your passport is valid for 10 years.
Younger than 16 years: $82 - $52 payable to Passport Services and $30 payable to Postmaster. If you are younger than 16 your passport is valid for only five years.
All applicants must appear in person, including minors under the age of 14. For children under 14, both parents or the child's legal guardian(s) must appear with the child. If only one parent appears, that parent must submit one of the following: the second parent's notarized written statement consenting to the passport issuance for the child, primary evidence of sole authority to apply or a written statement made under the penalty of perjury explaining the second parent's unavailability.
To access forms or obtain travel information, visit the U.S. State Department's Web page at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport1738.html
Today, with all the added security at our airports and borders, it really is important for everyone to have a passport for proper identification.
Speaking of airport security, if you plan to lock your checked luggage, make sure you have Transportation Security Administration-certified locks. If airport security needs to inspect your bags, they won't have to break your lock. You can buy TSA-certified locks at most large stores (Target or Kmart, for example) or luggage stores.
For added safety, just in case your luggage doesn't get to your final destination, make sure you have a luggage tag with your name, current address (business address is preferable), phone numbers both inside and outside your baggage, and a copy of your itinerary. This is the fastest way for the airlines to get your bags back to you when something goes wrong. Several companies have recently come out with tracking luggage tags; they have a unique tracking number to recover lost luggage around the world. I just ordered some for my office; hopefully, I won't have to activate the tracking system.
At check-in, make sure the agent or skycap has tagged your baggage to the correct and final destination. If you're not sure of the airport's three-letter code, ask the agent what the letters on the tag stand for. LAX is easy, BNA (Nashville) or SMF (Sacramento) are not easily recognizable. Use a colorful nametag or ribbon to easily identify your luggage and protect yourself from what the airlines call "bag swaps."
Black luggage is so common; it's easy to see how people can unintentionally pick up the wrong bag. My luggage is bright red and stands out at baggage claim. It's also a good idea to itemize what you packed. If you bought new clothes for your trip, keep the receipts until you get home. If your luggage should be lost, you can turn in the receipts with your insurance claim. Even if you did not take out a travel policy, your homeowner's policy may cover some of the loss. Expensive jewelry or hard-to-replace items should be packed in carry-on luggage, along with prescription medication, cash and travel documents.
Happy traveling.
TIP: If you have a long layover, make the most of it
Long layovers can have a pleasant outcome.
The rules are changing - you now have less than six months to get your passport, if you want to travel outside the United States, including Mexico and Canada. In the past, passports were needed for most international travel, but not to visit our neighbors to the north (Canada) or our neighbors to the south (Mexico), only proof of citizenship (birth certificate). As of Dec. 31, 2006, that is changing: everyone will need a passport if they travel internationally.
Speaking of international travel, I recently read an interesting article about the various services available at large international airports. As a travel agent, I make every attempt to get my clients to their destination as quickly and seamlessly as possible. If there is a nonstop or direct flight (one stop but no change of plane), that's the one I try to book. However, stopovers sometimes can't be helped. Where you stopover depends on the airline you are flying.
If you're going to Italy and fly on Lufthansa, you will stopover in either Frankfurt or Munich. If you're flying on British Air to Italy, you will definitely change planes in London. If you're flying to Vietnam on Cathay Pacific, your stop will be in Hong Kong. These cities are referred to as an airline hub; each airline has one, two or more hubs and airlines are required to stop in their hub prior to continuing on to a further destination. It's no different if you fly domestically: American's main hub is Dallas, United uses Denver and Delta uses Atlanta.
When a stopover is necessary, you hope it's short. Flying these days is time consuming enough with all the security checks; no one wants a long layover. But, there are times when a long layover can't be helped and airports around the world are adding services to help passengers pass the time happily.
If you happen to have a layover of five or more hours in Singapore, consider signing up for a free, two-hour city tour. There are three themes: Colonial, Cultural or Lifestyle. English speaking tours depart daily at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and at 1, 3, 4 and 5 p.m. To register for the tour, passengers should visit the tour counter at the Singapore Visitors Center in the departure/transit halls of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Make sure you have your boarding pass for your connecting flight. Passports are retained by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority when passengers leave for the tour. Passengers may store their hand-carried luggage with the "Left Baggage" desk at the airport. After the tour, clients will not need to check in again, just reclaim their passports and hand-carried luggage, and clear security.
In Vancouver you have several choices to pass the time, from a power nap in one of their new MetroNaps Pods, to a massage in one of several "day spas." In the post-security, U.S. departure area near Gate 82, there are several MetroNaps Pods, which look like a narrow, flat bed with a bubble at the top. Apparently, these Pods block out light and sound, and according to the article, people who have tried them give them thumbs up.
Passengers and visitors with time on their hands can experience a wide range of luxurious treatments, including manicures, pedicures and full body massages at three convenient locations in Terminal 3 (in Vancouver). The Absolute Spa experience is available daily and is certainly a pleasant way to pass the time at an airport. If you're into art, don't miss the art exhibit in the international terminal. The exhibit depicts British Columbia's native wildlife, mountains, rivers, forests and aboriginal heritage. I visited this exhibit on my last trip through Vancouver, on my way home from Alaska, and it's absolutely wonderful.
Speaking of art, if you have a stopover in Amsterdam, don't miss the exhibition on display at the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Schiphol located between Piers E and F on Holland Boulevard after passport control. The exhibit presently on display, "Really Rembrandt," celebrates Rembrandt's 400th birthday.
If you have a connecting flight in Sydney, and have been traveling all night, a shower would definitely be a plus. At the Sydney Airport, complimentary shower facilities for all passengers (not just first class passengers in airline lounges) are available at several locations. According to the article, you have to bring your own towel, but how hard could it be to pack a hand towel along with a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage?
Two of my favorite airports, regarding available services, are Hong Kong and Tokyo. Golfers, take note. Transit passengers at Hong Kong International Airport will soon be able to hit the links while on a layover. The new $100 million Sky City Nine Eagles Golf Course, a nine-hole course with "undulating greens," an artificial lake and extensive sand bunkers, is slated to open by year's end right on the airport property. I'll be in Hong Kong in February on my way to Vietnam, I'll definitely check out the golf course.
Not surprising, the airport for Tokyo, Japan, Tokyo International Narita Airport, offers an abundance of services for the flying public. Shower facilities, guest rooms, a foot massage, a body massage, a nail repair, a full scale pedicure and manicure, a children's play area, even a private lounge for American Express Platinum and Diner's Club International card holders, are all available at Narita Airport. Even with a two-hour layover, you could partake in some of these services. The time would certainly fly by.
I just named a few of the services offered at the larger international airports. You can go online and check out the location you will be traveling to. The long layover made turn out to be not long enough when you view all the things to do while you're waiting for your connecting flight.
Happy traveling.
The rules are changing - you now have less than six months to get your passport, if you want to travel outside the United States, including Mexico and Canada. In the past, passports were needed for most international travel, but not to visit our neighbors to the north (Canada) or our neighbors to the south (Mexico), only proof of citizenship (birth certificate). As of Dec. 31, 2006, that is changing: everyone will need a passport if they travel internationally.
Speaking of international travel, I recently read an interesting article about the various services available at large international airports. As a travel agent, I make every attempt to get my clients to their destination as quickly and seamlessly as possible. If there is a nonstop or direct flight (one stop but no change of plane), that's the one I try to book. However, stopovers sometimes can't be helped. Where you stopover depends on the airline you are flying.
If you're going to Italy and fly on Lufthansa, you will stopover in either Frankfurt or Munich. If you're flying on British Air to Italy, you will definitely change planes in London. If you're flying to Vietnam on Cathay Pacific, your stop will be in Hong Kong. These cities are referred to as an airline hub; each airline has one, two or more hubs and airlines are required to stop in their hub prior to continuing on to a further destination. It's no different if you fly domestically: American's main hub is Dallas, United uses Denver and Delta uses Atlanta.
When a stopover is necessary, you hope it's short. Flying these days is time consuming enough with all the security checks; no one wants a long layover. But, there are times when a long layover can't be helped and airports around the world are adding services to help passengers pass the time happily.
If you happen to have a layover of five or more hours in Singapore, consider signing up for a free, two-hour city tour. There are three themes: Colonial, Cultural or Lifestyle. English speaking tours depart daily at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and at 1, 3, 4 and 5 p.m. To register for the tour, passengers should visit the tour counter at the Singapore Visitors Center in the departure/transit halls of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Make sure you have your boarding pass for your connecting flight. Passports are retained by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority when passengers leave for the tour. Passengers may store their hand-carried luggage with the "Left Baggage" desk at the airport. After the tour, clients will not need to check in again, just reclaim their passports and hand-carried luggage, and clear security.
In Vancouver you have several choices to pass the time, from a power nap in one of their new MetroNaps Pods, to a massage in one of several "day spas." In the post-security, U.S. departure area near Gate 82, there are several MetroNaps Pods, which look like a narrow, flat bed with a bubble at the top. Apparently, these Pods block out light and sound, and according to the article, people who have tried them give them thumbs up.
Passengers and visitors with time on their hands can experience a wide range of luxurious treatments, including manicures, pedicures and full body massages at three convenient locations in Terminal 3 (in Vancouver). The Absolute Spa experience is available daily and is certainly a pleasant way to pass the time at an airport. If you're into art, don't miss the art exhibit in the international terminal. The exhibit depicts British Columbia's native wildlife, mountains, rivers, forests and aboriginal heritage. I visited this exhibit on my last trip through Vancouver, on my way home from Alaska, and it's absolutely wonderful.
Speaking of art, if you have a stopover in Amsterdam, don't miss the exhibition on display at the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Schiphol located between Piers E and F on Holland Boulevard after passport control. The exhibit presently on display, "Really Rembrandt," celebrates Rembrandt's 400th birthday.
If you have a connecting flight in Sydney, and have been traveling all night, a shower would definitely be a plus. At the Sydney Airport, complimentary shower facilities for all passengers (not just first class passengers in airline lounges) are available at several locations. According to the article, you have to bring your own towel, but how hard could it be to pack a hand towel along with a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage?
Two of my favorite airports, regarding available services, are Hong Kong and Tokyo. Golfers, take note. Transit passengers at Hong Kong International Airport will soon be able to hit the links while on a layover. The new $100 million Sky City Nine Eagles Golf Course, a nine-hole course with "undulating greens," an artificial lake and extensive sand bunkers, is slated to open by year's end right on the airport property. I'll be in Hong Kong in February on my way to Vietnam, I'll definitely check out the golf course.
Not surprising, the airport for Tokyo, Japan, Tokyo International Narita Airport, offers an abundance of services for the flying public. Shower facilities, guest rooms, a foot massage, a body massage, a nail repair, a full scale pedicure and manicure, a children's play area, even a private lounge for American Express Platinum and Diner's Club International card holders, are all available at Narita Airport. Even with a two-hour layover, you could partake in some of these services. The time would certainly fly by.
I just named a few of the services offered at the larger international airports. You can go online and check out the location you will be traveling to. The long layover made turn out to be not long enough when you view all the things to do while you're waiting for your connecting flight.
Happy traveling.
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