The Georgia Guidestones-An Unusual Landmark

The Georgia Guidestones are an unusual landmark. A lot of landmarks were purposely made to draw in tourists, such as the Eiffel Tower. Some landmarks are naturally occurring like the Grand Canyon. In Georgia, the purpose of the Guidestones, which are also referred to as the American Stonehenge, was quite different. There's a lot of information on the Internet about the stones, but here's a brief summary so you don't need to interrupt this article to find it.

Basically, the Georgia Guidestones are a granite monument arranged with a center rectangular tablet surrounded by four upright rectangular tablets joined by a capstone. Each of the outer rectangular tablets has a message presenting Ten Principles for Living an Age of Reason. The ten different principles are written in eight different languages on each side of four different upright slabs of granite. The capstone has four ancient languages represented espousing an appeal to reason. The stones also have the feature of being arranged astronomically. The unusual way in which they came to be by an anonymous sponsor that called himself, “R.C. Christian” adds to the mystery of what the messages all mean. The stones are a curiosity and controversial and best described by this quote: “raised the stones from local curiosity to the subject of national notoriety among conspiracy theorists and Christian dispensationalists.” In a book at the local library from the mysterious sponsor, Mr. Christian himself, states that the stones are a “message for human guidance” and that, “They are intended to stimulate discussion and logical compassionate action.” Being an adventurer myself and having the Guidestones within driving distance for a daytime road trip, off I went with my friend and my daughter.

My first impression was that they were not as big as I thought they would be. I think the air of mystery and a lack of perspective from the photos and videos contributed to that. While there, I searched the internet to see how they compare to Stonehenge. The Guidestones are only four feet shorter than the tallest tablet at Stonehenge. As far as the area, the Guidestones also don't cover a large land area. Another thing that was striking was the defacement of the stones. There was some pretty raunchy graffiti present as well as comments about the stones being representative of the anti-Christ and how they needed to come down. Other than the disgrace of the graffiti, the area was clean and overgrowth kept to a minimum. There were also some interesting features on the explanatory stone that was just to the west of the Guidestones. It referred to a time capsule that was buried underneath, but the date to open it was left out. From all the research, it was not ever clear whether there was truly a time capsule under the center stone. Also apparent were the many misspelled words on the tablet.

There were some other visitors to the Guidestones while we were there. There was a family that had some business in the area that came to visit and an older couple from 30 miles away that told us they had always heard about them, but this was the first time they had ever visited. We had an energetic discussion on what they thought the principles meant and how they had stirred up controversy. We also talked about how there were no markings or widespread pointers to the area other than the small sign right at the short roadway leading to the area of the Guidestones. It was obvious that we all thought that we found the experience to be thought provoking and a purposeful trip to do nothing other than to see them.

It's unfortunate that there are groups that think that the Georgia Guidestones represent the anti-Christ and are a message about the annihilation of 2/3 of the world's population. The Guidestones are off the beaten path, but it's worth it to go because it is interesting and different.

Here comes a rant...

Being the wife of an airline pilot is challenging. My husband is gone for 3-5 days at a time. Since he doesn't have a whole lot of seniority, he is on call and has to be at the airport within 2 hours of a call if he hasn't gotten advanced notice. He has to work holidays, including this Christmas. Since there was a blizzard in the middle of the country, he and his crew and fellow travelers were stranded. Now the problem is compounded by the fact that many of his fellow pilots have called in "sick" and they are having trouble getting holiday travelers to their destinations. His fellow pilots (with more seniority) have also complained because with the furloughs at the airline they now have to work four day work weeks instead of the 2 and 3 day weeks they had prior to our American economy tanking. I think his colleagues need a serious reality check. Unemployment is over 10%. They make salaries close to six figures a year with generous benefits. A little gratitude for being able to work in an industry that is doing everything it can to survive even in the best of times and empathy for their colleagues that have not enjoyed the benefits of longevity with a company as well as holiday travelers trying to get to spend time with friends and family-now that is the true spirit of Christmas. Bah humbug to the pilots that called in sick and feel entitled!

Airline Lounge Passes Make Great Gifts for the Traveler on Your Christmas List

Airline Lounge Passes are available for a one day stay. If you have a traveler on your Christmas list, this would make a great gift. This is really great
if you have someone you know with a long layover that could use a little refreshment and relaxation. I know I would have loved to have one for a trip to Dusseldorf when we had a six hour layover. I didn't sleep well on the trip over and after the layover it was another 2 1/2 hour flight to our final destination. Here's a list of the major US airlines that offer one day lounge passes. Each has various ammenties that may include Wi-Fi, Conference Room, Full-service bar, Complimentary Bar, Showers, Putting Green, Smoking Area, Children's Area, Music Room, Food for Purchase, airline customer service, fax machines, newspapers, concierge service, Some also have rules such which typically revolve around conducting yourself in a business-like manner. Check each airline website for specific details. Here's a list of airline's club locations:

Delta:
Acapulco,Mexico; Adelaide, Austrailia;Anchorage, Ak; Atlanta, GA; Barcelona, Spain; Berlin, Germany; Boston, MA; Brisbane; Australia; Canberra, Australia; Cancun, Mexico; Chicago (O'Hare), IL; Chihuahua, Mexico; Cincinnati, OH; Cuidad Juarez, Mexico; Dallas, TX; Detroit, MI; Frankfurt, Germany; Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Geneva, Switzerland; Guadalajara, Mexico; Hong Kong, China; Honolulu, HI; Jacksonville, FL; Johannesburt, South Africa; London (Heathrow), England; Los Angeles, CA; Manila, Phillipines; Manchester, England; Melbourne, Australia; Memphis, TN; Merida, Mexico; Mexico City, Mexico; Miamia, FL; Milan (Malpensa), Italy; Milwuakee, WI; Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN; Monterrey, Mexico; Munich, Germany; Nashville, TN; Newark, NJ; New Orleans, LA; New York (JFK), NY; New York (LaGuardia), NY; Orlando, FL; Paris, France; Philadelphia, PA; Portland, OR; Raleigh-Durham, NC; Rio de Jeneiro, Brazil; Rome, Italy; Salt Lake City, UT; San Diego, CA; San Francisco, CA; Santiago, Chile; Sau Paulo, Brazil; Seattle/Tacoma, WA; Seoul, Korea; Sydney, Australia; Tampa, FL; Tijuana, Mexico; Tokyo, Japan; Vancouver, BC; Washington DC (National); West Palm Beach, FL; Zurich, Switzerland.

American Airlines:
Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Bogota, Columbia; Boston, MA

Continental Airlines:
Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Boston, MA; Cleveland, OH; Dallas, TX; Denver, CO; Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Guam; Honolulu, HI; Houston (Intercontinental), TX; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA; New York (LaGuardia), NY; Newark, NJ; Panama City, Panama;
San Antonio, TX; San Francisco; Seattle, WA; Washington DC (National).

US Airways:
Boston,MA; Buffalo,NY; Charlotte,NC; Greensboro,NC; Hartford/Springfield,CT; Los Angeles, CA; New York, NY (LaGuardia); Philadelphia, PA; Phoenix, AZ; Pittsburgh, PA; Raleigh/Durham, NC; Tampa, FL; Washington DC (National).

Paris in January?

If you ask people about when to visit Paris France, most will probably talk about Spring. It's a popular time for tourists and locals alike, and why not? The weather will be sunny more often the later you go in Spring, and by the end of April and into May the gardens will be blooming.

Winter in Paris-are you crazy? Yes, we were. On our way back from Greece this year, we had to stay overnight somewhere in Europe before catching a flight back to the United States. We usually go through Germany, but but the flights were cheap and we had a good 1/2 day available to spend there. Off we went. It was cold! There was no snow so the gardens weren't buried under and the Eiffel Tower was not closed due to ice. We bundled up a got to hit the highlights which included a stop by the Eiffel Tower and a boat trip up the Seine. There were still plenty of tourists, but not so crowded during the typical high season. We also got a 4 star hotel close to the Metro and all the sites for a little over $100 US. We would still like to see Paris during one of the other seasons for the most enjoyable time to visit. Either way, a 1/2 day wasn't nearly enough and we would go back again. I think no matter what time you go, the City of Lights is wonderful anytime of the year.

When's The Best Time To Go?

If you're ever wondering when it's the best time to go somewhere on a trip, there's a website for that. It's called, of course, Best Time to Go. It has it's own search engine where you put in the month you want to go and the place you want to go. It also tells you about holiday times for your destination, cruise information and passport information. They also feature some interesting articles on topics like supernatural places and health secrets of travel doctors. There are also a few travel journal entries from fellow travelers.

I think it's best feature is a comprehensive collection of useful travel sites. It has links to such sites as where to find a private guide in Europe, internet cafes around the world, finding a public toilet, traveling with pets and so much more.

What a great little gem not only to find out the best time to go somewhere, but on lots of hard to find information and information on things you didn't even know you needed. Check it out-click on Best Time to Go.

TSA Self-Selecting Security Lanes

TSA has self-selecting security lanes. If you don't know what that is, it refers to black diamonds, blue squares and green circles. I know you may be thinking, “Huh?!” These are the color coded signs at TSA airport checkpoints designed to expedite you through the security process. According to the TSA, those lanes are working. Every time I've ever been to Atlanta, they don't ever seem to have them going. As a matter of fact, not at any other airport I've been to since they've had them up.

In the last year or so, the U.S. Transportation Security Agency, the TSA, has implemented a plan that they hope will speed up the screening lines at U.S. airports.

Instead of having just one security line for everyone, there are three lanes. They are color coded, and the TSA has chosen to model them after signs on ski runs that tell skiers where the hill is difficult and for experts, or where it's moderate, or easy.

The Black Diamond Lane is for "Expert Travelers". This is where frequent flyers go. People who know the routine and can get through the checkpoint quickly. They are familiar with the rules and procedures, have their plastic bag of liquids packed correctly and out of their carry-on, and they are prepared and ready to go through.

The Blue Square Lane is for "Casual Travelers". This would apply to travelers who are familiar with the rules and regulations, but they may take a bit longer to sort out the plastic bag, the computer, the shoes... and they just don't want to feel rushed at the checkpoint.

The Green Circle Lane is for "Families and Passengers with Medical Liquids". If you're really not sure what you need to do as you go through security, this lane is for you. It's for families with small children, strollers, and liquids for children. Passengers with special needs should use this lane if they need assistance or extra time.

You are allowed to take more than 3 ounces/100ml of "medically necessary liquids" outside of the one quart plastic bag, but these must be declared to a TSA Officer. If this applies to you, you should use the Green Circle Lane where possible.

Though it's up to individuals to choose the appropriate lane, the TSA says the honor system seems to be working. According to them, the black-diamond lanes are 21 percent faster on average. So far 50 airports have the new lanes in place.

The self-selecting lanes seems to be lowering the stress and anxiety levels of all passengers. Expert travelers don't feel that they are being slowed down, and families are able to take their time with all the things they have to carry for the kids. The TSA officers are happier when you aren't so stressed so everyone wins.

So no matter what level of traveler you are, if you see those Black, Blue and Green signs at the start of the security line, choose the level that suits you best, and everyone will be on their way with fewer problems.

I haven't really seen a difference. Comment and let me know about your experience.

Travel to Huntley, IL for the Turkey Testicle Festival

One of the things I always tell people is to try to travel somewhere while there is a festival. You get food, entertainment, and shopping all in one stop. Well...here's an unusual festival. Check it out.

Dealing With Canceled Flights

Dealing With Canceled Flights

Bad weather this weekend again has delayed and canceled flights. Although the priority of the airlines is to get passengers to their destinations without delay, safety is a priority, so here's an article for you if you find yourself stuck at the airport dealing with a canceled flight.

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Canceled flights are a headache for everyone. Believe me, the airlines don't like to cancel. It starts a whole domino effect. Not just for your flight, but for flights at down line airports all through the day. Planes end up in the wrong places with crews that can't fly them because of time regulations.

Probably the most common reason a flight is canceled is weather. Sometimes this is pretty obvious, like if you're sitting in the middle of a snow storm, and no one is moving anywhere.

Sometimes you look outside, and it's sunny and calm. How can the flight be canceled for weather like that? Think about it. The weather might be occurring somewhere else. Maybe there are severe thunderstorms on the East Coast, and that's where the flight is coming from. Maybe the flight is coming from sunny Florida, but it's coming THOUGH a hub in the middle of one of those storms. Maybe there is a sandstorm in the Sahara or a typhoon in Japan. Weather anywhere in the world can affect your flight if it is a long haul flight.

Another reason flights may be canceled is mechanical problems. If this is the case, you want them to cancel, but it's hard not to feel frustrated anyway.

Or a flight could be canceled because there have been delays, and now the crew has been waiting for too long. There are rules about when they can fly and when they can't. You really don't want pilots who have already been on duty for the past 14 hours to get in the plane and fly you. Pilot fatigue contributes to a lot of air mishaps.

If your flight is canceled, the second you hear that your plane is not going anywhere, call the airline's toll-free number. (It's a smart idea to have it programed in your cell phone.) Get into the line at the counter, especially if it's fairly short, but make that call while you're standing in line. There's a good possibility you'll get rebooked more quickly on the phone than at the counter where a couple of overwhelmed airline employees are being swarmed by a plane full of disgruntled fliers.

Ask what your options are. Actually, it pays to have an idea of alternatives before you get to the airport. True, most times you won't need to use the alternatives, but with canceled flights, the sooner you can act on those alternatives, the more apt you are to get on your way while everyone else is still looking them up.

Most airlines will rebook you, with no fees or penalties, on the next flight on which space is available. NOTE: Delta airlines automatically books you on the next available flight. Not necessarily on the next flight... the next flight on which space is available. During holiday periods or really bad weather situations, this could be more than just hours. If you seen the news the last few years, you know it can even be days! NOTE: If you book your travel with an online service like Expedia or Priceline or others like it, your priority for getting on the next available flight is dead last. Always try to book your flights directly with the airline on their website. You can always sign up at the website for notification of their weekly deals, too. Oftentimes, you'll be notified of the deals long before the online booking services.

If the wait seems too long, ask the agent if there might be a seat on another airline. Remember they are in competition, but airlines will often endorse your ticket to another carrier to try and get you on your way in a timely fashion. You'll have the most luck if the flight is on a partner airline.

If these things don't work, suggest solving your flight problem by connecting through another city or going to another airport. Remember, all of these suggestions only work if your canceled flight is pretty much an isolated situation. If all the airlines are canceling flights, as they must in bad weather, ....patience is the only thing that will work. Remember that if you are rude to the gate agents, ticket agents and customer service agents, you'll will not get the best service you can get. They really are trying to accommodate you while having to work out a tough situation. Politeness and a smile would be welcoming and could go a long way for you.

Should Personal Electronic Devices be Banned on the Flight Deck

This question was recently asked on a travel website that I regularly follow. It's being asked in light of the recent Northwest Airlines pilots missing their mark by 150 miles. Their explanation was that they were on their laptops looking over new company information and were distracted. Here's my 0.02 us dollars.

There are laws and regulations already on the books so this legislation would be pointless. The problem is not that electronics are being used on the flight deck, but at what time they are being used. During critical phases of flight is not a good idea. However, if there's a long flight and the autopilot is on, it wouldn't appear to be a problem. Pilots are reading magazines and other things during that time. What's more scary is when the pilots are listening to their mp3 players and not able to hear any audible alarms. Many senior pilots are finding that when they look over at their younger colleagues, they have their ears covered and their favorite music going. This has even happened during sterile cockpit conditions ie. take off and landing phases of flight. If the Northwest pilots would have fessed up and told what is more likely the truth in that they were probably sleeping, none of this would be discussed now.

What do you think?

Free WiFi for the Holidays

Through a generous offer from Google, there are 47 lucky airports that will be getting free WiFi until January 15, 2010. Of course, the airport we fly out of will not be getting it. The downside is that Google would like you to set your homepage browser as, well, Google-of course! That's not such a bad trade. Here's the list of the lucky 47 airports to receive free WiFi from Google:

• Austin (AUS)
• Baltimore (BWI)
• Billings (BIL)
• Boston (BOS)
• Bozeman (BZN)
• Buffalo (BUF)
• Burbank (BUR)
• Central Wisconsin (CWA)
• Charlotte (CLT)
• Des Moines (DSM)
• El Paso (ELP)
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• Fort Myers/SW (RSW)
• Greensboro (GSO)
• Houston (HOU)
• Houston Bush (IAH)
• Indianapolis (IND)
• Jacksonville (JIA)
• Kalamazoo (AZO)
• Las Vegas (LAS)
• Louisville (SDF)
• Madison (MSN)
• Memphis (MEM)
• Miami (MIA)
• Milwaukee (MKE)
• Monterey (MRY)
• Nashville (BNA)
• Newport News (PHF)
• Norfolk (ORF)
• Oklahoma City (OKC)
• Omaha (OMA)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Panama City (PFN)
• Pittsburgh (PIT)
• Portland (PWM)
• Sacramento (SMF)
• San Antonio (SAT)
• San Diego (SAN)
• San Jose (SJC)
• Seattle (SEA)
• South Bend (SBN)
• Spokane (GEG)
• St. Louis (STL)
• State College (SCE)
• Toledo (TOL)
• Traverse City (TVC)

Planning a Flight around the Holidays

The holiday season is about to begin. Here's a great article on planning a flight around holiday travel. Whether your holiday plans have your traveling near or far, we extend our best wishes to your and your family.

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There is always a chance that your flight will get canceled or delayed regardless of when you fly. However, the holidays are a very busy time for airports and you don’t want to spend Christmas there instead of with your family. Be prepared for long lines at the check in desk and security. Even though you should be at the airport two hours before your plane takes off during normal travel times, you will want to increase that up to three hours when you travel around the holidays.

Try to keep the amount of items you bring along to a minimum. It will make checking in your baggage easier and prevent such items from being lost or damaged. If you are traveling for Christmas and you want to send gifts it is a good idea to mail them separately and they will be there when you arrive. If you do decide to pack them don’t wrap them as they are subject to being inspected. You can wrap the gifts when you arrive at your destination.

Traveling around Thanksgiving or Christmas always comes with the risk of the weather being a problem so make sure you are prepared. Some travelers have had their flights delayed for a couple of days due to storms coming in during these times. It is a good idea to arrive at the airport prepared for the worst. Make sure you have plenty of activities with you for children to stay busy with. You also want to carry snacks and drinks so you don’t have to pay the outrageous prices at the airport for these items.

If you have specific dates of travel in order to be spend the holidays away from home you will want to secure your travel arrangements early. Look for the best possible deals online and with a travel agent. If you want until the last minute though in hopes of prices dropping you may be disappointed that you won’t get to go because the flights are sold out.

Many people save money on flights by taking connections or accepting a layover or two. You may want to skip this money saving tip during the holidays just because most airports will be very busy. You don’t want to have to deal with hurrying across a busy airport terminal to find your connecting flight. If you can get a decent price on a direct flight then make sure you do so.

It is very important that you have all your travel documents and a printed copy of your travel itinerary. Most airline staff will be overwhelmed with people asking for assistance during this time of the year. You don’t want to arrive and discover that you don’t have a reservation after all and that there is not a space on the plane for you.

If you want to avoid the crowds during holiday travel, consider taking a very early morning flight or a late evening flight. You will find these are often less expensive as well. While it may interrupt your normal sleep patterns, it can help to reduce the amount of stress and anxiety while you are traveling during the holidays.

For those planning to fly with children around the holidays, make sure you keep a careful eye on them. They can quickly become separated from your family in the crowd of people moving around. Strollers are a good option for small children. Make sure all the adults in the party know which flight they are taking and the airline in case they get separated as well.

You can have a fabulous trip to visit your family and friends over the holidays if you are prepared. Paying attention to the guidelines of the airlines is very important to ensure you have a save trip. Being on time will help to ensure that you don’t have your plans crushed because you have to catch a plane in the following days.

Damaged Items-One Man's Story

Dave Carroll is a musician that had a really bad experience with United Airlines this past summer. Like any good musician, he told his story in song. Just a few weeks ago, while traveling to Colorado and giving a speech, he decided to give United Airlines another chance. This time they lost his luggage. Here's the video that now has almost 6 million views on You Tube. Enjoy!

NW Pilots-The Hyposcrisy

Great commentary by Steve Kelly from the October 29, 2009 Times Picayune

Click here

Warning-Contents Under Pressure

Ever open a bottle of hair gel or shaving cream after a flight only to have contents shoot out all over you and the bathroom? Changes in air pressure during flight can cause all kinds of things to become unsettled.

Always open any pressurized or airtight canister or container gently after you've just flown. Keep shampoo, hand lotion, and similar items in a resealable plastic bag to help limit messes.

Flights From Hell

If you've done your fair share of traveling by air, I'm sure you can come up with an experience that qualifies as a Flight from Hell. There's even a website that you can share your story. Check it out by clicking here.

Is It Safe To Go To Mexico?

Mexico is a popular destination for spring breakers. Since violence is at an all time high in Mexico, naturally this is a concern. I'm especially concerned since my daughter is going on a cruise this summer with her father and Mexico is one of the stops. Does that mean you should change your vacation plans or destination? That's a decision that you will have to make. At this time, there have been no attacks to tourists in popular destinations like Cancun and Cozumel. The US State Department has issued an advisory. Click here to check it out.

If you do decide to go, follow some safety tips. Stick to the areas that tourists hang out and don't go off the beaten path. Use reputable services-get recommendations from your hotel concierge. Better yet, use a travel agent to book reputable vendors before you ever leave. Before you go, make sure you have someone in the US or your home country that knows your itinerary and has a copy of your travel documents. Stay updated with travel advisories and be prepared to change your plans if you need to.

The bottom line is to stay informed about what's happening so you can weigh the risk for yourself.

Good luck and safe travels!

Atlantic Southeast Airlines Makes History!

A first in aviation history happened on February 12, 2009-the first all female African-American crew to fly together in the airline industry. This was confirmed by the Organization of Black American Pilots. Pictured above is Captain Rachelle Jones, First Officer Stephanie Grant, and Flight Attendants Diana Galloway and Robin Rodgers.

Rachelle also has the distinction of being only one of five African-American female Captains in the airline industry today.

What a great way to mark African American History Month! Congratulations!

Pay to Pee?

If you're not familiar with Ryan Air, let me acquaint you. There are an Irish owned regional airline that pioneered the pay-for-fee services that have swept all airlines. We can thank the owner, Michael O'Leary, for the start of charging for checked baggage, using your credit card, using a check-in desk, etc. The employees are also treated like second class citizens. If this company was based in the US, employees would not be treated so poorly.

Mr. O'Leary and company are now drawing fire because they want to charge a fee for using the toilet on the aircraft. He wants to charge one British pound-the US equivalent of $1.40-for the use. Some have called it, "toilet extortion". He was also quoted as saying that it would be quite unlikely that anyone would need to use the toilet and not have the money. I don't know about you, but if you've ever traveled with young children you can count on that scenario happening.

Mr. O'Leary we are glad you aren't here in the US. You would never be able to get away with that. Don't you also remember how the French came under fire for charging to use the public toilet? On our recent trip to Paris, they indeed had done away with it. Mr. O' Leary could use a lesson from others.

Montreal-A Great Winter Destination

I know, I know...when you think of winter destinations you probably imagine warm Caribbean water that is just as clear and blue as anything you've ever seen. Even though Montreal averages temperatures that tend to be below freezing during the month of February, it's a great winter escape for one reason-the underground pedestrian network. According to the official tourist agency, Montreal has 33 kilometers of passageways that snake around the downtown area and it's all underground. It's a hub for the subway, bus and train system and full of world class restaurants, shops and entertainment. So while everyone is paying premium prices to head south for the winter, look for bargains in our neighbor to the north.

For more information, click the title and it will take you to the Tourisme Montreal-the office tourism site for Montreal.

A+++ to E-Z Rent-A-Car and Tampa, FL airport

I was really impressed with this rental car company. I had to go to Tampa this week. I went mid-week and I didn't realize that the Super Bowl was the following Sunday until someone on the bus pointed it out. That's why I had such a time finding a decent price for a rental car. I started out by going to our favorite rental car company. They quoted me a price of $100 for a compact car for ONE day! Someone on the shuttle also told me that they visit Tampa during this same week every year and because of the Super Bowl it's costing them an extra $100 to rent a car for the week. I was not about to pay $100 for 1/2 day, so I went to a meta search engine and found E-Z Rent-A-Car.

Just because they were a budget car rental company they did not skimp on service. They directed me to use the courtesy phones in the airport which were easy to find. They gave directions and it was exactly as it said. Everyone I came into contact with was friendly and courteous. Unfortunately, they are not all over the USA, but they do have some locations in Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, St. Maarten, Jamaica and Ireland. I will definitely check them out first before I check out all the big national brands. If you want to check them out, click on the title above and it will take you to their website.

Tampa airport was also a breeze to go through. It's well marked and well laid out so it's easy to navigate. Everyone I came into contact with their was also friendly and courteous. I hope to go there again soon.

Boo to Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines, a budget carrier, is drawing fire from the flight attendant's and pilot's unions. The controversy is around some rather raunchy and sexually suggestive ads they are currently running. I'll let you do your own internet search to see for yourself. As you know, sex sells and Spirit Airlines is claiming that their new ads are a hit with the public. At further controversy is that they are making flight attendants wear aprons with a logo for a certain brewing company (Budweiser). This is a way to generate revenue. So after charging a fee for everything they could possibly get, they are now pushing it on to their employees to be walking billboards. Boo to you Spirit Airlines. Poor taste.

New Visa Requirements for South Africa

If you've ever wanted to travel to the Southern hemisphere of the dark continent you will have new requirements. In this message from South African airways, it spells out the requirements: "As we begin 2009, it is a good time to remind you of the special passport requirements for travel to South Africa to ensure that your clients have a pleasant and uninterrupted travel experience.

All non-South African passport holders are required to have at least one entirely blank (unstamped) visa page in their passport each time they enter South Africa. These pages are in addition to the Endorsement/Amendment pages that are found at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. SAA is required to enforce these visa requirements and unfortunately, customers not processing the proper documentation will be denied boarding at point of origin."

As of May 1, 2009, South African Airways will start offering daily non-stop service from New York's JFK and Johannesburg.

Airline crashes are a pilot's family's worst nightmare

The US Airways crash into the Hudson River the other day had a happy ending with all 155 lives on board spared. This always brings it close to home that air crews put a lot on the line every time they go up in the air. Now comes the long work of the investigation. I think that geese belong cooked on a Christmas platter and not the engine of an Airbus.

Who said the French were rude?

Bonjour!

There seems to be the perception in America that the French, particularly in Paris, are rude to Americans or just plain rude. We did not find that to be true when we were there at the beginning of the year. Ok-we did have a rather surly waiter when we ate at a restaurant on the Champs Elysee, but that was a stereotype we could live with. We went to Paris after having brushed up on French that I haven't used since high school (that's been a really long time) and many times would ask in French if they spoke English and used French as often as we could. Everyone we encountered-at the airport, at the hotel, in shops, in the train station, at the restaurant-spoke English when we asked if they did. Some were better than others and between their limited English and my limited French we were able to figure it out. Often they volunteered-apparently we must look quite American. Someone also overheard us when we were having difficulties buying tickets for the Metro and volunteered to help us. I think if you show some respect and attempt to use the language of the place you're traveling, people may be more apt to help you. So if you're traveling anywhere soon, take the time to learn a few phrases and hope that you'll find someone that speaks English, which is very likely.

In Greece, where the pilot is a native, the situation is the same. I don't have the same worry there since that is the pilot's native language. His cousin told us that learning English is mandatory in the schools. America could learn a lesson by requiring students to learn another language. The world is increasingly becoming a smaller place and travel to places outside the United States is not such a rarity any more.

Au revoir!

One-half day in Paris is not enough

Yes, it's been a while since I posted. We've traveled recently and I got to fulfill a life long dream of going to Paris. We stopped there for 1/2 day on our way back to the USA from Greece. Paris is beautiful! It's huge and so much to see. We only had an afternoon and evening and it wasn't even close to being enough. We hit a few of the highlights: the Eiffel Tower, of course, Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Elysee and went on a boat tour in the Seine. If I wasn't jet lagging so bad and it wasn't cold, it would have been near perfect. More details to come.