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Wednesday, November 12, 2008
More Airline Fees
Today Airtran has followed the lead of other airlines in charging a fee for the first bag checked. They followed suite with Delta who just started last week and United, US Airways, American, Spirit and Allegiant who started last summer. Airtran officials claimed it needed all the revenue it could get after a rough summer. Just because there's been some relief with current oil prices doesn't mean you'll see ticket prices drop. Many airlines have been operating at a deficit to remain competitive while we have experienced the highest fuel prices in history.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
La Tomatina-The Spanish Tomato Fight
During this summer in Milan, Italy a huge pillow fight broke out and was captured on video. It made the rounds of youtube and facebook and others. Now it's showing up in television advertisements. While watching, the pilot told me about a tomato fight that takes place in Spain every year. Naturally, I had to find out more. Here's what I found: In the Spanish town of Bunol in the Valencia region of Spain, there is an annual tomato fight where 240,000 pounds of tomatoes are thrown at festival goers. This festival is held on the last Wednesday of August and called La Tomatina. Here's a video from youtube that shows the fight from 2006 and shares the colorful history.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Don't Buy Gas From the Rental Car Company
On our last trip to the Eastern Seaboard in early October, we rented a car. We got outstanding service from Avis. In fact, we liked the car so much we're considering buying one when we make our next vehicle purchase. The pilot took care of all the arrangements. The friendly person behind the counter asked him about taking care of his gas so he wouldn't be so inconvenienced when he returns. The pilot inquired about gas and thought he was getting a great deal. This was when gas was the highest EVER. Georgia had some of the highest prices in the country at the time, so the gas price he got looked very good. Well, as we drove along we were totally shocked at the low gas prices. Georgia has taxed gas so highly that it remains fairly high compared to other states. Lesson learned-no more gas from the rental car company.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Virginia Beach Can Kiss My A@@
From the title you can figure out the pilot and family did not have a good experience in Virginia Beach. Due to our stand-by status with the airlines, we travel off peak which makes good economic sense (although it does have its downside). Since the Atlantic coastal beaches have their peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, it seemed like the shoulder season during the first week of October would be ideal. The weather still remains fairly nice in that area during the time of year and this was no exception. Well in Virginia Beach they damn near rolled up the boardwalk. First, we had to walk and walk to find a restaurant that wouldn't call for selling any organs in exchange for lunch. While we were walking along, rather than keep going back and forth to the boardwalk to each restaurant, we walked along the bike path to the side. Some rude person on a bike nearly hit us and loudly pointed out that the boardwalk was "over there." We finally did find a little local owned restaurant. There were still a few people there on the covered patio eating and drinking beer. We didn't even sit down when the waitress nearly broke a marathon record to tell us they were closed. We questioned it since it was only 12:30. She nastily told us that they closed at 1:00. We pointed out that was still 25 minutes away. She then stated in her most exasperated voice, "Well it's off season." So we again wandered away only to find Quiznos where we spent $25 on a wrap, a half-sandwich, whole sandwich and one bag of chips.
Rest assured that we will never intentionally go back to Virginia Beach. We went for a long weekend trip to the Outer Banks and Norfolk which more than made up for the rudeness and overpriced Beach in Virginia. More on that later.
Rest assured that we will never intentionally go back to Virginia Beach. We went for a long weekend trip to the Outer Banks and Norfolk which more than made up for the rudeness and overpriced Beach in Virginia. More on that later.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Be Prepared
The Scouts had it right to make this their motto. The other day when I was merging from one interstate to the other my tire blew. Everything was okay-my husband was home to change the tire and take care of business (my hero!). That added about another 45 minutes to a day filled with activity. I had to go potty, but figured I would be home shortly. Needless to say, once the tire was changed and we were back on the road, the first order of business was to find a bathroom. The moral of the story is that whenever you have a chance to stop then stop. You never know what's in store for you--a traffic jam, a tire blow out, etc.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Your Travel Profile
This little widget will help you find your travel profile. It gives you a series of pictures and you pick the picture that best fits for the question they are asking. I found it to be quite accurate. So take a look and find out what your travel profile. Mine was Easy Rider. Have fun!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Kentucky Wines
As I was driving through Kentucky recently, I kept seeing signs for wineries. It was a pretty regular occurrence. It got me to wondering if there were really that many wineries or just a way to draw some tourism, so I did a little research when I got back home. Kentucky is home to 34 wineries. Who knew! When you think of wineries in America, Kentucky doesn't ever come to mind. Due to time limitations, we weren't able to check any of them out personally. For more information, check it out here. www.kentuckywine.com.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Traveling Abroad with Your Child
If you are a single parent or if you have re-married and take your child abroad, make sure you have a notarized letter from the non-traveling parent giving permission. Some countries require it. On our last trip home from Greece, the border agent intensely questioned my daughter's step-father (my husband) since she had a different last name than we did. So err on the side of caution, and get this done whether or not the country you are traveling to requires it.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Caribbean Travel Documents: What do You Need?
With internationals rules constantly changing, it is hard to know exactly what kinds of Caribbean travel documents you need when leaving on vacation. Ever country has specific rules and regulations, so you should check ahead by calling the airport, but in general, you’ll need ID and a passport at the very least to fly into a foreign country or foreign territory.
First and foremost, no matter what documentation you have, travel to Cuba is illegal for most United States citizens. Cuba is under a strict communist dictatorship rule, and United States citizens risk their lives by going there. The only people allowed to travel to Cuba are special government officials with certain clearances. Traveling to Cuba by going to another country, like Canada, is also illegal. You can be caught quite easily doing this because the U.S. customs officials will see the Cuban stamp in your passport. It is smarter and safer just to avoid traveling to Cuba, because you will be less likely to get hurt while in the Caribbean and less likely to face charges when entering the United States to get home.
For most Caribbean countries, you will need a passport to travel from the United States into the country. The Caribbean is not a country on its own—the region is actually made up for number of small island countries and European territories. Therefore, every time you enter a new country, you will need to present your passport to be stamped. Regardless of if you need a passport by the island’s law or not, you will need a passport to reenter the United States. If you lose your passport or otherwise find yourself without a passport in a foreign country, contact the airlines immediately to find out what to do.
In some Caribbean countries, you will also need to present your airplane ticket showing that you have a ticket to return home or a ticket to fly on to another country. Immigration is a problem, and if you have not figured out when you’re going to leave, some countries will not let you leave the airport at all. Make sure you have a return or forward flight, regardless of where you go.
When traveling, keep your documentation, tickets, and identification in a safe place that is quickly accessible. Remember that your luggage may arrive long after you actually get to the Caribbean, so keep everything on your person instead. It is a good idea to use a small outside pocket to carry this or to have one person from the family in charge of all of the information in order to prevent it from getting lost.
First and foremost, no matter what documentation you have, travel to Cuba is illegal for most United States citizens. Cuba is under a strict communist dictatorship rule, and United States citizens risk their lives by going there. The only people allowed to travel to Cuba are special government officials with certain clearances. Traveling to Cuba by going to another country, like Canada, is also illegal. You can be caught quite easily doing this because the U.S. customs officials will see the Cuban stamp in your passport. It is smarter and safer just to avoid traveling to Cuba, because you will be less likely to get hurt while in the Caribbean and less likely to face charges when entering the United States to get home.
For most Caribbean countries, you will need a passport to travel from the United States into the country. The Caribbean is not a country on its own—the region is actually made up for number of small island countries and European territories. Therefore, every time you enter a new country, you will need to present your passport to be stamped. Regardless of if you need a passport by the island’s law or not, you will need a passport to reenter the United States. If you lose your passport or otherwise find yourself without a passport in a foreign country, contact the airlines immediately to find out what to do.
In some Caribbean countries, you will also need to present your airplane ticket showing that you have a ticket to return home or a ticket to fly on to another country. Immigration is a problem, and if you have not figured out when you’re going to leave, some countries will not let you leave the airport at all. Make sure you have a return or forward flight, regardless of where you go.
When traveling, keep your documentation, tickets, and identification in a safe place that is quickly accessible. Remember that your luggage may arrive long after you actually get to the Caribbean, so keep everything on your person instead. It is a good idea to use a small outside pocket to carry this or to have one person from the family in charge of all of the information in order to prevent it from getting lost.
Avoiding Crime during Caribbean Travel
Crime is one thing that can ruin your Caribbean vacation in a heartbeat. If your information is stolen, you may have to rebook flights, leave early, contact your credit card company while on vacation and generally stress out over the items that were stolen. Most anything is up for grabs, including money and traveler’s checks, cameras and other technological equipment, passports, plane tickets, jewelry, and other things that you carry with you or leave in your hotel room. If you want to enjoy your Caribbean vacation the best way possible, take steps to avoid being the victim of crime in the Caribbean.
First and foremost, if you are a tourist, local pickpockets will assume that you are an easy target. Don’t be. Stay aware of your surrounding at all times and if you are carry money or anything valuable, make sure that if is somewhere very secure. For example, carry a purse under your arm instead of a backpack, which can easily be unzipped without you noticing.
Another common way to avoid crime is to consider how you are dressing. Of course you’ll want to look your best, but if you dress too flashy, thieves will know that you are a tourist and that you have money. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying designing purses. Instead, go for a more casual look. You’ll be more comfortable that way anyway.
In fact, leave your valuables at home all together. That’s the best way to keep them from getting stolen on your Caribbean vacation! Travel light—if you look like you’re ready to run after a thief to catch him or her, the thief won’t approach you. However, if you’re carry two heavy suitcases and have a camera case around your neck and a purse under you arm, a thief can quickly grab the money from your back pocket and run off without worrying that you’ll case him. If you do have to carry valuables with you for whatever reason, keep them locked in the hotel safe during the day. Remember, maids and other hotel personnel can rob you too, unless you use the safe, and that will be hard to prove if it happens.
Lastly, remember to protect your items at home as well. Have someone watch your house while you are traveling to the Caribbean to make sure that it is safe. You can even ask a friend or relative to stay there to defer thieves as well as take care of your pets and plants. Another tip is to make sure that your luggage is clearly marked with your name and address in case it gets lost, but at the same time, make sure that this identification is covered so that the person standing next to you can’t clearly read it. If a thief sees an entire family leaving on vacation ad reads you address, he or she can easily rob your home since you will definitely not be there.
First and foremost, if you are a tourist, local pickpockets will assume that you are an easy target. Don’t be. Stay aware of your surrounding at all times and if you are carry money or anything valuable, make sure that if is somewhere very secure. For example, carry a purse under your arm instead of a backpack, which can easily be unzipped without you noticing.
Another common way to avoid crime is to consider how you are dressing. Of course you’ll want to look your best, but if you dress too flashy, thieves will know that you are a tourist and that you have money. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying designing purses. Instead, go for a more casual look. You’ll be more comfortable that way anyway.
In fact, leave your valuables at home all together. That’s the best way to keep them from getting stolen on your Caribbean vacation! Travel light—if you look like you’re ready to run after a thief to catch him or her, the thief won’t approach you. However, if you’re carry two heavy suitcases and have a camera case around your neck and a purse under you arm, a thief can quickly grab the money from your back pocket and run off without worrying that you’ll case him. If you do have to carry valuables with you for whatever reason, keep them locked in the hotel safe during the day. Remember, maids and other hotel personnel can rob you too, unless you use the safe, and that will be hard to prove if it happens.
Lastly, remember to protect your items at home as well. Have someone watch your house while you are traveling to the Caribbean to make sure that it is safe. You can even ask a friend or relative to stay there to defer thieves as well as take care of your pets and plants. Another tip is to make sure that your luggage is clearly marked with your name and address in case it gets lost, but at the same time, make sure that this identification is covered so that the person standing next to you can’t clearly read it. If a thief sees an entire family leaving on vacation ad reads you address, he or she can easily rob your home since you will definitely not be there.
Weather Watch: Planning Caribbean Travel
The fastest way to ruin a beautiful paradise vacation is to find out that the weather forecast is calling for rain in the Caribbean during your entire stay. There’s not much you can do to change the weather, but there are a few things you can take into consideration when planning a Caribbean vacation. Hopefully these tips will help you enjoy beautiful sunny weather during most of your stay.
Obviously, the Caribbean is often hit hard by hurricanes. Therefore, your first and foremost plan is to not book a Caribbean vacation during hurricane season. Hurricanes and tropical storms can occur during various times in the year, but most fall during the official hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Most of the storms happen specifically between August and October, with September being an especially volatile time. Try heading to the Caribbean during a different time of the year.
However, if you must plan your trip during hurricane season, try visiting islands that usually do not get hit. Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, which are sometimes known as the Netherlands Antilles islands or the ABC islands are rarely in the path of the storm, and you can avoid a direct hit by traveling to Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, and Barbados. If you want to learn about a specific island’s weather report, contact a travel agency dealing with travel to this location or a tourist center on the island itself.
In fact, before you plan your island vacation, learning about the weather on specific islands is crucial. For example, if you plan to visit Dominica, you should be prepared for some rain. The wildlife there is beautiful, but they get over 300 inches a year, more than anywhere else in the world. Another example would be Bermuda. It’s actually a northern Caribbean island and has a climate close to that of North Carolina, so if you visit in the winter, you won’t want to lie on the beach or swim in the ocean. You’ll have to head south for warmer weather there.
About a week or two before you leave, track the storms and weather happening on your island. Remember that every storm hits not every island. If you work through a travel agency or buy a packaged deal, sometimes you can get your money back if a hurricane hits your island and you can’t fly in for your vacation; otherwise, make sure that you know some of the indoor activities to do as well, like spending time at the resort or touring local museums. These will help battle your rainy day blues.
Obviously, the Caribbean is often hit hard by hurricanes. Therefore, your first and foremost plan is to not book a Caribbean vacation during hurricane season. Hurricanes and tropical storms can occur during various times in the year, but most fall during the official hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Most of the storms happen specifically between August and October, with September being an especially volatile time. Try heading to the Caribbean during a different time of the year.
However, if you must plan your trip during hurricane season, try visiting islands that usually do not get hit. Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, which are sometimes known as the Netherlands Antilles islands or the ABC islands are rarely in the path of the storm, and you can avoid a direct hit by traveling to Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, and Barbados. If you want to learn about a specific island’s weather report, contact a travel agency dealing with travel to this location or a tourist center on the island itself.
In fact, before you plan your island vacation, learning about the weather on specific islands is crucial. For example, if you plan to visit Dominica, you should be prepared for some rain. The wildlife there is beautiful, but they get over 300 inches a year, more than anywhere else in the world. Another example would be Bermuda. It’s actually a northern Caribbean island and has a climate close to that of North Carolina, so if you visit in the winter, you won’t want to lie on the beach or swim in the ocean. You’ll have to head south for warmer weather there.
About a week or two before you leave, track the storms and weather happening on your island. Remember that every storm hits not every island. If you work through a travel agency or buy a packaged deal, sometimes you can get your money back if a hurricane hits your island and you can’t fly in for your vacation; otherwise, make sure that you know some of the indoor activities to do as well, like spending time at the resort or touring local museums. These will help battle your rainy day blues.
A Good Time for the Caribbean
Right now is a good time to go to the Caribbean. Yes, I realize it's hurricane season. The odds of getting hit by one still show that it's not likely you would be in harm's way. Besides that you would have enough of an advanced warning to get out in time. What a vacation tale that would make!
It's off season in the Caribbean and you can find good deals on airfare and hotels. We went to Aruba this this time a few years ago and had a blast. The temperatures are nearly the same year-round for all the Caribbean islands. Although it's nice to get away to a Caribbean island when the temperatures are freezing or below for the winter Northern climates, with all the activities, shopping and gorgeous scenery, consider the Caribbean right now.
It's off season in the Caribbean and you can find good deals on airfare and hotels. We went to Aruba this this time a few years ago and had a blast. The temperatures are nearly the same year-round for all the Caribbean islands. Although it's nice to get away to a Caribbean island when the temperatures are freezing or below for the winter Northern climates, with all the activities, shopping and gorgeous scenery, consider the Caribbean right now.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Vergina-Home of the Royal Tombs
Here's a video I stumbled upon. It gives a close up look at the newest National Treasure in Greece. We had the opportunity to visit the Royal Tombs at Vergina last year. No photography of the interior was allowed, so I was delighted to find this video. There is a political statement being made, so please over look that and enjoy the pictures of this archaeological treasure-the resting place of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.
New Video
This is the first in a series of videos that we took when we went on our annual trip to Greece to see family. We'll be posting more as we get them edited and uploaded. Enjoy!
Staycation
Staycation is the buzzword this season. Since transportation costs are getting so ridiculous taking a mini vacation within 100 miles of home has become a "staycation." We used to call it a Sunday drive.
So where do you find places to go? Here are places to look for ideas: your local library, the internet, your local book seller, the chamber of commerce, the local and/or state historic society, the newspaper, the convention and visitor's bureau, the state park system, the national park system, recommendations from friends and co-workers and the local parks and recreation department.
So where are you taking your staycation this summer?
So where do you find places to go? Here are places to look for ideas: your local library, the internet, your local book seller, the chamber of commerce, the local and/or state historic society, the newspaper, the convention and visitor's bureau, the state park system, the national park system, recommendations from friends and co-workers and the local parks and recreation department.
So where are you taking your staycation this summer?
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Get Ready for Increased Air Fares
There are rumblings in the airlines about raising air fare to match the rising cost of fuel. The fees they are charging (see chart on previous blog post) are not even coming close to cover the cost. All the major airlines are scrambling to stay afloat and it seems that flights and routes are being cut faster than the speed of sound. It won't be long before air travel is out of reach for most everyone. The airlines are also the next industry that will make cuts to their workforce. Pretty soon, there will be more TSA agents working than pilots.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Airline Fees Chart
I found this and thought it would be helpful.
Airline Fees are a fact of life (hastened by $130/barrel oil), it is important that everyone take into account airline fees while shopping for airfare. To that end we have compiled a comparison list of U.S. domestic airline fees. Fees are changing rapidly and we’ll do our best to keep the chart up to date.
updated 24-Jun-2008
|
| Reservation by Phone (per person) | 1st Checked Bag Fee (each-way) | 2nd Checked Bag Fee (each-way) |
| American | $20 | $15 | $25 |
| Continental | $15 | Free | $25 |
| Delta | $25 | Free | $25 |
| Northwest | $15 | Free | $25 |
| United | $25 | $15 | $25 |
| US Airways | $25 - $35 | $15 | $25 |
| AirTran | $10 | Free | $10 - $20 5 |
| Alaska | $15 | Free | $25 |
| Frontier | $15 | Free | $25 |
| JetBlue | $15 | Free | $20 |
| Southwest | Free | Free | Free (3+ $25) |
| Spirit | $20 | $10 | $20 - $25 5 |
| Midwest | $10 | Free | Free (3+ $100) |
| Hawaiian | $10-30 | Free | $25 |
| Go | Free | Free | Free |
| ExpressJet | Free | Free | Free |
| Virgin America | $10 | Free | $25 |
| Allegiant | $10 - $15 ea/way | $10 - $20 5 | $10 - $20 5 |
| Sun Country | $10 | Free | $25 |
|
| Beverage/Snack Packet | Meal | Alcohol | Oversize Bag Fee (each-way) |
| American | Free/none | $3 - $10 | $6 | $150 |
| Continental | Free | Free 2 | $5 | $100 |
| Delta | Free | $4 - $10 | $5 - $6 | $150 |
| Northwest | Free | $7 - $10 |
| $100 |
| United | Free | $5 - $7 3 | $6 | $100 |
| US Airways | $2 bev/none | $5 - $7 | $7 | $100 |
| AirTran | Free | None | $6 | $29 - $69 |
| Alaska | Free | $5 | $5 | $50 - $75 |
| Frontier | Free | $3 | $5 | $75 |
| JetBlue | Free | None | $5 | $75 |
| Southwest | Free ($3 Energy) | None | $4 | $50 |
| Spirit | $2 - $4 | $5 |
| $100 - $150 |
| Midwest | Free (Cookie) | $6 - $11 | $5 | $80 |
| Hawaiian | Free | $160 - $360 | ||
| Go | Free | None | $25 | |
| ExpressJet | Free | Free | $1 - $3 | $50 |
| Virgin America | Free | $6 - $8 | $5 - $6 | $50 |
| Allegiant | $2-$4 | LAS-only $5 | $5 | may apply |
| Sun Country | Free | Free | $5 | $60 |
|
| Travel w/ Pets (each-way) | Unaccompanied Minors (per flight) | Curbside Check-In |
| American | $100 - $150 | $100 | Free |
| Continental | $95 | $75 - $100 | Free |
| Delta | $100 - 200 | $100 | $3 |
| Northwest | $80 - $359 | $75 - $100 | $2 |
| United | $100 - $200 | $99 | $2 |
| US Airways | $100 | $100 | $2 |
| AirTran | $65 | $39 | Free |
| Alaska | $100 | $75 | $2 |
| Frontier | $100 - $200 | $40 | n/a |
| JetBlue | $100 | $75 | $2 |
| Southwest | No Pets | Free | Free |
| Spirit | $75 | $75 | $2 |
| Midwest | $100 | $50 | Free |
| Hawaiian | $35 - $175 | $35 - $95 | n/a |
| Go | $25 | $25 | n/a |
| ExpressJet | $50 | $50 | n/a |
| Virgin America | $100 | $75 | n/a |
| Allegiant | $75 | $75 | n/a |
| Sun Country | $75 | $50 | n/a |
|
| Seat Selection / Priority / Leg Room | Non-Refundable Ticket Change Fee | Overweight Bag Fee (each-way) |
| American | None | $150 | $50 - $100 |
| Continental | None | $150 | $50 |
| Delta | None | $100 | $80 - $150 |
| Northwest | $5 - $35 | $100 | $50 |
| United | $14 - $109 | $150 | $100 |
| US Airways | $5 - $30 | $150 | $50 - $100 |
| AirTran | $6 - $20 | $50 | $29 - $69 |
| Alaska | None | $50 - $75 | $50 |
| Frontier | None | $100 | $75 |
| JetBlue | $10 - $30 | $100 | $50 - $100 |
| Southwest | $10 - $30 1 | Free | $25 - $50 |
| Spirit | $5 - $15 | $100 | $100 - $150 |
| Midwest | None | $100 | $50 - $65 |
| Hawaiian | None | $150 | $50 |
| Go | None | $20 | $25-50 |
| ExpressJet | None | $50 | $50 |
| Virgin America | $15 - $50 | $75 | $50 - $100 |
| Allegiant | $11 - $13 | $50 | may apply |
| Sun Country |
| $75 - $100 | $60 |
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Hidden Hotel Fees
I just read an article about hidden hotel fees. I think we've all become accustomed to accepting that the mini bar is not free. However, in this article the author stated that when he booked from one of the online travel services that it stated that there was a cleaning fee. He was quite surprised to find out is was $166 after he got his bill when he returned home. Buyer beware-know exactly what the charges are ahead of time before making the reservation so you won't have an unpleasant surprise like this. Without stating what the cleaning fee was, they could have charged $10,000. Luckily, he got this situation resolved and had most of his money refunded. Save yourself the hassle, use a credit card vs. debit card to add an extra layer of protection by having the right to dispute it and ask for specifics before you commit.
Monday, June 16, 2008
What is Bonnaroo?
Ok, so I might be one of the few that don't know about this summer music festival. As I was driving through the lovely Tennessee mountains this weekend, traffic came to a crawl around the Manchester area. When it started to ease up, I saw a sea of tents as far as the eye could see. I wondered what it was. The friend I was visiting didn't know what it was either. Ironically, when I got home the pilot had some co-workers over from that area and filled me in. If you're interested, you can Google the word "Bonnaroo" and get all kinds of information.
So I got to thinking about when I was at a great summer festival years and years ago in Birminham, AL called City Stages. It just happened to be this weekend, too. It's much more than the $20 I paid for a weekend full of great music with big name stars, but still quite reasonable if you get your tickets early. If you're interested in other music festivals around the country this summer, I dug up this article from MSNBC. Click here to read.
So I got to thinking about when I was at a great summer festival years and years ago in Birminham, AL called City Stages. It just happened to be this weekend, too. It's much more than the $20 I paid for a weekend full of great music with big name stars, but still quite reasonable if you get your tickets early. If you're interested in other music festivals around the country this summer, I dug up this article from MSNBC. Click here to read.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
All Good Things Must Come to an End
Our family takes an annual two-week vacation to Greece every year to visit family. We just got back. This year I fussed and considered not going-too much to do to be away for so long. Luckily the pilot did not listen. As we had our daily walks on the beaches of the Aegean Sea, I kept thinking that I sure liked the Tracy that visited Greece and not the one that existed in the United States the other fifty weeks of the year. All the stress of making ends meet and doing the work that paid the bills vs. the work that fed the soul takes its toll. Now to figure out how to bring that peace home and make it last until I get my batteries recharged next year. Only fifty more weeks to go! Any suggestions?
Monday, May 19, 2008
Don't Forget Take Out the Batteries
As we're getting ready for our annual trip to Greece, we're busy taking the batteries out of all the electronic gadgets we're taking. The pilot related an embarrassing incident when one of the flight attendant's bags was set aside and waiting with the rest of the crew's bags. When the crew went to get their bags and board the van to the hotel, there was something buzzing inside of her bag. Save yourself the inconvenience of dead batteries and embarrassment by taking batteries out before you pack anything away. Now we just have to worry about being overweight with our bags.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Cinco de Mayo marks the celebration of victory of the Mexican Army over the French in the Battle of Puebla. Ironically, it's a celebrated more widely in the United States than in Mexico. As a matter of fact, the pilot was in Mexico last year during that time. He said there was no celebration. When he asked about it, they told him that only it was a holiday for the gringos.
Most Americans also think it's the equivalent of Independance Day (July 4) and Bastille Day (French) on July 15. Mexico celebrates its independence day on September 16th.
Whatever way you choose to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, just don't go to Mexico for it (unless you're in Pueblo). Ole!
Most Americans also think it's the equivalent of Independance Day (July 4) and Bastille Day (French) on July 15. Mexico celebrates its independence day on September 16th.
Whatever way you choose to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, just don't go to Mexico for it (unless you're in Pueblo). Ole!
Monday, April 28, 2008
New Feature: Monthly Video
Since we are going to Greece in May, the featured videos for the month of May is Greece. Just click on one of the video images on the left to watch.
This is a great time of year to go to Europe. It's what's called the "shoulder season". It's not quite high season and it's not off-season. It's still a little chilly in the northern region of Greece where we stay, but in the Greek Islands it's ideal. Flowers are profusely in bloom and the temperatures are perfect: not too cold and not too hot.
Have a look at the featured videos and I'll have more coming to you as the pilot's family prepares for its annual trip to Greece.
This is a great time of year to go to Europe. It's what's called the "shoulder season". It's not quite high season and it's not off-season. It's still a little chilly in the northern region of Greece where we stay, but in the Greek Islands it's ideal. Flowers are profusely in bloom and the temperatures are perfect: not too cold and not too hot.
Have a look at the featured videos and I'll have more coming to you as the pilot's family prepares for its annual trip to Greece.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Carry On!
We're getting ready for our annual trip to Greece (the pilot's family still lives there-OPA!!!). I always over pack. As I sit here and type this I am vowing not to do it again this year. The airlines are also getting tougher and tougher about carry on and baggage allowances--(thank goodness the airline we fly standby is one of the more liberal). So the objective with carry on baggage is this: how to get the most in and have it still fit either under the seat or overhead bin without you needing to see a chiropractor for the rest of your life. Here's a little tip I learned which would be more helpful for the ladies.
Ladies: If you get a big shoulder bag, you can slip your purse in there along with some other items and still have your small wheeled suitcase. Just watch the weight because flight attendants may not help you get it into the overhead bin. I've heard many complain that they have back problems from years of helping people do this. Also, there's not always a gentleman around to help. If you are traveling with a gentleman you may be able to pack in a little more.
I'm also including a list of the carry on limits for US airlines. Kalo taxithee - that's the Greek phonetic pronunciation that translates into "good travel"
Ladies: If you get a big shoulder bag, you can slip your purse in there along with some other items and still have your small wheeled suitcase. Just watch the weight because flight attendants may not help you get it into the overhead bin. I've heard many complain that they have back problems from years of helping people do this. Also, there's not always a gentleman around to help. If you are traveling with a gentleman you may be able to pack in a little more.
I'm also including a list of the carry on limits for US airlines. Kalo taxithee - that's the Greek phonetic pronunciation that translates into "good travel"
Domestic Airline/Flight Policies - Carry On Luggage
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Delta and Northwest Merger
The merger between Delta and Northwest Airlines has created a lot of buzz. There's always the concern that it's not good for passengers or employees. There's nothing worse than having a disgruntled flight attendant or baggage handler working the flight that you're taking. However, from the inside, I can tell you that there's a lot of positive comments. The company (Delta) has been assuring that this merger is not subtractive i.e. losing jobs and closing routes. They contend that it's additive i.e. good for passengers, good for employees and good for business. What is known for sure is that if nothing is done two of the giants in the air will go down. Pun intended.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Grounded!
Headlines this week about Southwest Airlines having been grounded for "unsafe planes". This was followed by more planes grounded by the FAA at United Airlines and voluntary groundings by American Airlines and Delta Airlines. Does this mean the flying public is any less safe? So far nothing has been found that has been unsafe. What has happened is that regular maintenance inspections required by the FAA have not been followed. The "irregularities" were not in the physical structures of the planes, but in the required inspection and maintenance routines of the airlines. It was put to me this way: like your car you need to get your oil changed every 3,000 miles. It doesn't mean that your car isn't running right, but to prevent problems you need to have this done. Unlike your car, it's still safer to fly than drive.
New Passport Card Option
The U.S. State Department, starting on February 1, 2008, started accepting applications for a passport card. What this card does is provide an alternative for passports to persons traveling by land and sea ONLY to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. Why this is good is that it's cheaper (only $45 for adults and $35 for children). There's still no word on whether they are processed any faster than a passport. If you are traveling by air, passports are still required. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department website. Click here.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Don't Ever Drink From Hotel Glasses
A friend sent me this video to check out. You will never drink from hotel glasses ever again after watching it. The pilot said the only ones he drinks out of are the disposable ones that are sealed in plastic. After watching this video you will know why. (Click the article title to watch the video)
Friday, March 7, 2008
Rude Awakening
I just looked at an e-mail from a colleague. He stated that he was up and starting his day at 5:00 am. He said that it happened because the person that had the hotel room before him had the alarm set for 4:00 am. He tried to go back to sleep, but could not and started to be productive instead. So the lesson here is to check the alarm clock in the hotel room so you won't be awakened before you want to be awakened.
And since we're on the subject of alarm clocks. You don't have to purchase a travel alarm. Most cell phones have them built in. Wake up calls may be unreliable and alarm clocks difficult to figure out and there's a risk of them not working if the electricity goes out. Besides that you can select the sound you want to wake you up rather than having a nasty blast.
And since we're on the subject of alarm clocks. You don't have to purchase a travel alarm. Most cell phones have them built in. Wake up calls may be unreliable and alarm clocks difficult to figure out and there's a risk of them not working if the electricity goes out. Besides that you can select the sound you want to wake you up rather than having a nasty blast.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Aegean Airlines Announces New Destinations
Aegean Airlines is one of our favorite airlines. The most obvious reason is because it takes us "home" to see our Greek family. The other reason is because they have excellent service. They've just announced four new destinations: London, Tirana, Limnos and Kefalonia. (Kefalonia is the setting for Captain Corelli's Mandoline). We're excited because it offers us one more way to get to see family. If you ever get to Greece, there is no choice for an airline as far as we're concerned.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Why Baggage Gets Lost
In case you're ever wondering why baggage gets lost, here's a humorous explanation. Enjoy!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Scam Going on in Hotels
A hotel my husband, the pilot, recently stayed at shared this warning. There are others that are calling hotel guests identifying themselves as hotel personnel. They state that they are having trouble with your credit card and need to verify your information. Once these scam artists have your credit card information, they steal you blind. Actual hotel personnel will never call you and ask you for your information over the phone. If they are having any problems, they will call you and ask you to come down to the front desk. A good rule of thumb is to never give any credit card information over the phone no matter how convincing they sound under any circumstances.
Drink Refills
When eating at restaurants, make sure drink refills are free. At home, we tend to take that for granted. Always ask, particularly in a resort area. We found that out the hard way when we were in Puerto Rico. We let two kids have three drinks each (what can I say-we were on vacation) and much to our surprise it was 1/3 of the bill. The drinks were way overpriced and we made sure they drank every drop before we left. Too bad they weren't 21 because I think it would have been cheaper to buy them some beer.
Stop Those Bloody Noses
This is a tip we got from one of the flight attendants (please note that they are flight attendants and not stewards/esses) that recently flew with my husband. In certain parts of the country and certain times of the year, the climate is dry. It's likely during the night you will get a bloody nose due to the dry air . This happened to my husband last week and my daughter when we were in Las Vegas. Do this and it will stop that from happening. When you check into your hotel ask for an extra towel. When you get into your room, wet it down and put it over the blower of the heat/air unit and set it to high. This will ensure that the air at the temperature you desire will get circulated and push the much needed moisture into the air.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
How About a Chance to Win $500,000?
Officials at the worlds busiest airport, Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, announced a contest today. Atlanta is noted for long waits during peak travel times. I know it has taken me up to one hour to get through. In all fairness, I have also breezed through in just a few moments as well. I tend to fly at off-peak times because that's when seats are most available for stand-by flight. If you think you have what it takes to come up with a security device that will reduce wait times, you could possibly win $500K. For more information, check it out here: www.flyclear.com/innovation
Sunday, January 6, 2008
It Ain't Just the Water in Mexico That You Have to Avoid
Montezuma's revenge. I got it and it was not fun. I spent the last night of my Mexican honeymoon sitting on the toilet with the trash can in front of me. These tips can also be used for any country where the water and food quality is questionable.
1. Ask the restaurant/hotel etc. if they have a working water filtration system.
In the high tourist areas they likely will have them. The chances decrease in the more remote areas. It's best if you stick to eating and drinking in well established places.
2. Take some anti-diarrheal medicine with you.
I know it sounds simple, but when you're young and excited to go on a honeymoon, simple things get overlooked. I was never so glad to be back in the United States and able to buy something for my symptoms.
3. Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables.
I think that's why I got so sick. In third world countries they often use untreated human and animal feces to fertilize their crops. Stick to cooked food no matter how enticing the salad and fruit look.
4. Take some toilet paper.
This applies more to Central American countries. Their toilet paper has antibacterial properties. This is not good if you're a woman that's prone to yeast infections. There's a normal balance of bacteria and yeast in your body that will get out of control if you wipe out the bacteria with the toilet paper.
5. Use bottled water for everything if you think the water is questionable.
When my husband flies to certain places in Mexico, the crew loads up on bottled water to take to their hotel rooms. They use it to wash their faces and brush their teeth. Many crew members have gotten sick when not following this advice.
6. Don't buy or eat any food from street vendors.
The food handling standards are not as high as in the United States. Combined with exposure to blistering hot temperatures for most of the year, it's a great breeding ground for the bacteria that can make you sick.
When you're thirsty, beer (cerveza in Spanish) or tequila is a great alternative! Remember moderation or you'll be just as bad off as with Montezuma's revenge.
1. Ask the restaurant/hotel etc. if they have a working water filtration system.
In the high tourist areas they likely will have them. The chances decrease in the more remote areas. It's best if you stick to eating and drinking in well established places.
2. Take some anti-diarrheal medicine with you.
I know it sounds simple, but when you're young and excited to go on a honeymoon, simple things get overlooked. I was never so glad to be back in the United States and able to buy something for my symptoms.
3. Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables.
I think that's why I got so sick. In third world countries they often use untreated human and animal feces to fertilize their crops. Stick to cooked food no matter how enticing the salad and fruit look.
4. Take some toilet paper.
This applies more to Central American countries. Their toilet paper has antibacterial properties. This is not good if you're a woman that's prone to yeast infections. There's a normal balance of bacteria and yeast in your body that will get out of control if you wipe out the bacteria with the toilet paper.
5. Use bottled water for everything if you think the water is questionable.
When my husband flies to certain places in Mexico, the crew loads up on bottled water to take to their hotel rooms. They use it to wash their faces and brush their teeth. Many crew members have gotten sick when not following this advice.
6. Don't buy or eat any food from street vendors.
The food handling standards are not as high as in the United States. Combined with exposure to blistering hot temperatures for most of the year, it's a great breeding ground for the bacteria that can make you sick.
When you're thirsty, beer (cerveza in Spanish) or tequila is a great alternative! Remember moderation or you'll be just as bad off as with Montezuma's revenge.
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