December 14, 2006

Travel advisory: New passport rules coming

You'll soon need one to fly back to U.S. from Canada, Mexico and Caribbean!

(December, 2006) — Even though their spring break is months away, brothers Eddie and Spencer Wright of Perinton took a short trip to downtown Rochester this week to prepare for their Caribbean cruise.

Eddie, 18, and Spencer, 14, applied for their first passports at the Monroe County Clerk's Office.

"Our travel agent told us it was mandatory now to have them," said Ted Wright, who cut the check for his sons' passports. "Cost-wise, it's something you have to add to the cost of your trip."

Americans returning to the United States by air must have valid passports beginning Jan. 23, according to State Department regulations. Travelers using other transportation have another year or more to get a passport.

In the past, travelers coming from North or South American countries were exempt from needing a passport, although South American countries required passports for entry into their countries.

The exemption is ending, which means that air travelers coming into the United States from every country, including Canada, Mexico and Bermuda, Jamaica, Aruba and other Caribbean nations, will need a passport.

Travelers planning trips in late January should apply for their passports this week because they take about six weeks to arrive, although exceptions can be made in emergencies.

Those visiting Canada or Mexico by car, bike, foot or boat won't need a passport until Jan. 1, 2008, at the earliest, although that could be delayed if lawmakers have their way. Another proposed date is June 2009.

"We have been alerting people for a long time. We saw it coming," said Lela Ford, owner of Gallery of Travel in Brighton. She said a few of her customers had to delay their January vacations because they didn't get their passport applications processed in time.

Ford said passports still aren't needed for travel from U.S. territories including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

"But if you're going on a cruise, you have to have one," she said. "If something happens and you have to leave from Barbados instead of Puerto Rico, nobody's going to let you come back."

Ford said travel agents nationwide have attempted to stall the requirement of passports.

"We fought it because it's expensive," she said, referring to the $97 charge for adults. "But now, I think it's time. This is how Europeans go. So now we have to bite the bullet."

Rep. Louise Slaughter, D-Fairport, has been critical of the passport requirements, saying it will hurt tourism. Her district includes Niagara Falls, where several million vehicles cross the border each year.

"Because of the high percentage of air travelers who already own passports, I don't expect this rule to have the dangerous impact on border economies that the proposed land and sea rules will have," she said. "Fixing those rules remains a top priority for me."

One option being discussed is a $45 border-crossing card for those traveling between Canada and the United States by car.

For the Wrights, their passport process started weeks ago, when they had to find copies of their birth certificates with a raised seal. Then they had their pictures taken (this can be done at photo shops or usually where applications are accepted) and had to find a day when they both could get to the clerk's office before 5 p.m.

"We go to Canada from time to time. In the future, having a passport is going to be the norm for travel," Ted Wright said.

According to the State Department, more than 71 million Americans, or about one in four, have valid passports. They've hired additional staff to process the 60 percent increase in passport requests in the past year.

Monroe County Clerk Cheryl Dinolfo has seen an increase in passport applications, too. She encourages those who have passports to check the expiration date so they don't get caught without one.

"People are making inquiries," she said. "For some, it's been on their 'to do' list."

Dinolfo said the county traditionally averages 300 passport applications a month; in November, they handled 700.

"If they're planning on traveling and planning to get a passport, they'd better do it sooner rather than later."

Posted by TechTravel at 21:36:09 | Permanent Link | Comments (1) |

November 22, 2006

10 Simple Tips for Surviving Holiday Travel

Flying over the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. A little preparation—and paying attention to the details—can help make your trip as easy as pie.

It could have been worse, I thought, as we taxied down the snowy runway at Boston’s Logan Airport. My flight home had been delayed twice by a winter nor’easter—first overnight and then again by a few hours in the morning. But I wasn’t nearly as cranky as some of my fellow travellers, who gave the impression they’d rather be at the mall exchanging gifts on the day after Christmas.

By contrast, I was relaxed and ready to settle in for my cross-country flight. Why did such a compromised trip turn out to be so stress-free? Follow these 10 tips and you too can be ready to face the unpredictable challenges of travelling during the holiday season.

1. Pack for the new security rules

Ignore the latest TSA requirements at your peril: Not only could you lose precious time as you scramble to make your plane, but you could also be forced to pitch your favourite perfume or that expensive bottle of wine.

The revised rules are fairly straightforward: You’re allowed to carry liquid, gel or aerosol products through security in containers of 3 ounces or less, provided these items can fit in a clear-plastic quart-sized zip-top bag. Got those details? Three ounces and one quart-sized bag. If you want to bring your liquid, gel or aerosol items in larger quantities, you have to put them in your checked luggage—or buy those products after you’ve passed through security. There are a few exceptions that can be carried in larger amounts, such as prescription medications and baby formula, so be sure to check the TSA Web site for complete details.

Also, you’re now required to take off your shoes as well as remove laptops from your bag. As you snake through the security queue, pull out your laptop before you get close to the scanner. Then you won’t hold up the travelers behind you as you fumble with your belongings. And when you get to the other side of the checkpoint, be sure you have the right laptop; it’s entirely too easy for you to accidentally pick up someone else’s machine.

2. Keep your gifts unwrapped

If you’re bringing presents, be sure to leave them unwrapped until you arrive at your destination. That’s because TSA screeners may need to inspect the contents before clearing your checked or carry-on bag. You may want to consider shipping the gifts to your destination in advance, which could also save you from paying an overweight baggage fee.

3. Lose the pounds on your luggage

Packing light won’t just help you avoid straining your shoulders; it’s also a good way to keep you from draining your pocketbook. Most airlines allow you to check two pieces of baggage of up to 50 pounds each. Overweight bags of up to 70 pounds will cost you at least $25, and you’ll pay an extra $80-$85 for a third checked bag. If you absolutely have to bring all that on your trip, consider using a door-to-door service like Luggage Express, which will save you the hassle of schlepping your heavy bags into the airport.

4. Leave yourself enough time

With about 25 million people expected to travel during the Thanksgiving season, according to the Air Transport Association, you’re bound to run into delays on the freeway, at the parking garage, in the security line and on the runway. Take a deep breath and don’t be surprised if everything takes a little longer than usual. Also, be sure to build enough time into your schedule if you plan to check your luggage: New airline rules require you to complete check-in, depending on your airport, no less than 30 to 45 minutes before departure. As a general guideline, you’ll want to be at the airport at least one hour before departure for domestic flights, and at least two hours for international flights.

5. Print your boarding passes on the Web

One good way to save time at the airport is to bypass the ticket counter entirely. Check in on the Web and you’ll be able to select or improve your seating assignment and avoid waiting in line. Even if you’re checking bags, you can still print your boarding pass online and take care of your luggage by using either an airport kiosk or curb side check-in. Be aware, however, that in some cities, it’ll cost you $2 per bag to use the curb side service. 6. Avoid delays

If bad weather is affecting your departure or destination city, there probably isn’t much you can do to make sure you’re on time for Thanksgiving dinner. But if you’re connecting in a city that’s being socked by a snowstorm, you have more control: Call your airline and see if you can be rebooked on a different flight. Also, when you’re buying your tickets, it’s a good idea to travel early in the day. Not only are you less likely to face delays, but you’ll have more options for fixing the situation if something goes awry.

7. Stay in the know

Don’t wait until you get to the airport to find out that your plane’s been delayed. Check your flight status on the airline’s Web site several hours before you’re scheduled to depart. Being aware of potential problems early gives you time to make alternate arrangements.

Also, be sure to sign up online for automatic flight status notification. This service enables the airline to send a text message to your cell phone or PDA with current information about your flight. These updates can be particularly welcomed when you’re on a plane stuck at the gate. On a flight out of O’Hare last month, I was one of the first to know that our departure time would be pushed back—yet again—by wave after wave of strong thunderstorms.

8. Scout out airport eats and diversions

Airports make some people cranky under the best of circumstances, and I’m not just talking about the under-5 set. It’s a smart idea to check your airport’s Web site to figure out if there’s anywhere good to eat near your gate. If you’re faced with a lengthy delay and you’re not hungry, you can also find out about the other airport offerings. For instance, with time on my hands in Chicago, I check out the neon light sculpture in the tunnel between the B and C gates at O’Hare’s Terminal 1. Or, delayed at Boston’s Logan airport, I take in the Rube Goldberg-like contraption in Terminal C. Need another idea if you’re delayed at the airport? Try an airport spa.

9. Check the weather forecast

Even if your flight takes off without a hitch, you don’t want to be caught unaware by stormy skies later in your trip. And if you’re going somewhere unfamiliar for the holidays, it’s helpful to know whether you should pack sunglasses or a scarf. Check the long-range weather forecast for your destination so you can be prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw at you.

10. Know where you're going

Finally, don’t spend so much time worrying about getting onto your flight that you don’t think about what happens once you’re off it. If someone’s picking you up, make sure you have a plan for meeting up; if you’re renting a car, have your confirmation number handy. And a final tip: If you’re heading someplace unfamiliar, print out driving directions in advance. You don’t want to get lost on the way to your hotel—or there’s a good chance you’ll be thought of as this year’s Thanksgiving turkey.6. Avoid delays

If bad weather is affecting your departure or destination city, there probably isn’t much you can do to make sure you’re on time for Thanksgiving dinner. But if you’re connecting in a city that’s being socked by a snowstorm, you have more control: Call your airline and see if you can be rebooked on a different flight. Also, when you’re buying your tickets, it’s a good idea to travel early in the day. Not only are you less likely to face delays, but you’ll have more options for fixing the situation if something goes awry.

7. Stay in the know

Don’t wait until you get to the airport to find out that your plane’s been delayed. Check your flight status on the airline’s Web site several hours before you’re scheduled to depart. Being aware of potential problems early gives you time to make alternate arrangements.

Also, be sure to sign up online for automatic flight status notification. This service enables the airline to send a text message to your cell phone or PDA with current information about your flight. These updates can be particularly welcomed when you’re on a plane stuck at the gate. On a flight out of O’Hare last month, I was one of the first to know that our departure time would be pushed back—yet again—by wave after wave of strong thunderstorms.

8. Scout out airport eats and diversions

Airports make some people cranky under the best of circumstances, and I’m not just talking about the under-5 set. It’s a smart idea to check your airport’s Web site to figure out if there’s anywhere good to eat near your gate. If you’re faced with a lengthy delay and you’re not hungry, you can also find out about the other airport offerings. For instance, with time on my hands in Chicago, I check out the neon light sculpture in the tunnel between the B and C gates at O’Hare’s Terminal 1. Or, delayed at Boston’s Logan airport, I take in the Rube Goldberg-like contraption in Terminal C. Need another idea if you’re delayed at the airport? Try an airport spa.

9. Check the weather forecast

Even if your flight takes off without a hitch, you don’t want to be caught unaware by stormy skies later in your trip. And if you’re going somewhere unfamiliar for the holidays, it’s helpful to know whether you should pack sunglasses or a scarf. Check the long-range weather forecast for your destination so you can be prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw at you.

10. Know where you're going

Finally, don’t spend so much time worrying about getting onto your flight that you don’t think about what happens once you’re off it. If someone’s picking you up, make sure you have a plan for meeting up; if you’re renting a car, have your confirmation number handy. And a final tip: If you’re heading someplace unfamiliar, print out driving directions in advance. You don’t want to get lost on the way to your hotel—or there’s a good chance you’ll be thought of as this year’s Thanksgiving turkey.

Posted by TechTravel at 18:21:09 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

October 30, 2006

How to book the best holiday airfares ...

Ask the "deal hunter"! Plus: JetBlue's new fees, Miami, San Francisco, and more ...

Et Tu, JetBlue?

Last February, we wrote a story about the growing trend among airlines of nickel-and-diming their customers. Almost across the board, carriers had eliminated extras like free magazines, pillows, and meals, and at the same time they tacked on fees for curbside check-in and new standby procedures, as well as (surprise!) pillows and meals. One of the more annoying extra charges involved checked luggage. Airlines had begun charging $25 fees for each checked bag weighing 51-70 pounds, and $50 for bags 71-100 pounds. JetBlue was the lone holdout—until now. Find out about JetBlue's new fees and restrictions

• How Airlines Pass Costs on to Travelers

MY HOMETOWN

Chilling Out in Sizzling Miami

What happens when the city you grew up in turns into a hotspot? One night you order a mojito, and the next night you have an ice-cream sundae

October 14, 2006

How to Prevent or Survive Lost Luggage

Surviving Lost Luggage

The number of bags lost or delayed by airlines is rising thanks to new carry-on rules that are forcing more passengers to check their bags.

August 2006 was the worst month for baggage losses since the one-time meltdown in December 2004. In August, the daily average of lost bags reached 14,089, or 8.08 bags for every 1,000 passengers, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported.

But there are steps you can take to help prevent your luggage from getting lost–or at least enable you to survive the ordeal with less difficulty, according to Susan Foster, author of "Smart Packing for Today's Traveler" (Smart Travel Press, $19.95).

Here are Foster's tips for smart packing, which are also available online at http://www.smartpacking.com.

§ Use a sturdy identification tag with a durable strap on each bag. The best tags have a cover hiding your name to protect your privacy; use your business address and phone whenever possible.

§ Include your identification information inside the bag, in case the outer tag is lost. Place a travel itinerary in an outside pocket or inside your bag on the top so airlines can easily track you down.

§ Tie a colored ribbon to your bag or mark your initials in big letters so no one else will take it from the luggage carousel. Take a digital photo of the bag to show to the baggage agent should it be misplaced.

§ Remove old baggage tags to avoid confusion among baggage-handlers.

§ Check your bags early. Airlines suggest 90 minutes in advance (two hours for international travel) but at daily high-traffic times, you should add 30 minutes. Last-minute checked bags may not make it onto your plane.

§ Make sure your bags are ticketed correctly before you leave the luggage check-in area.

§ Complete the lost-luggage reports at the airport and don't leave without a claim number and contact information so you can check the status of your missing bags.

§ Create a packing list that includes every item in each bag and leave a copy at home in case you need to claim compensation.

§ If you can, carry with you on board whatever personal items you'll need to survive 24 hours in your destination without your suitcase. If you're heading to a beach, tuck a bathing suit in your carry-on; if you're headed to a meeting, carry with you a copy of that important speech or presentation, or better yet, fax it, FedEx it or email it ahead so that it's there when you arrive. Content Source: Associated Press

Posted by TechTravel at 04:18:00 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

August 24, 2006

On Increased Air Travel Security

If we've learned anything from previous increases in air travel security, it's that the Transportation Security Administration, airports, and airlines must work together to make sure that rules are consistently applied across the board. I believe that travelers want to help in any way they can, and are willing to make sacrifices necessary for their safety. (Certainly the makings of a bomb seem to be more of a threat than nail files ever were.) But right now, the new changes appear to put a disproportionate share of the burden on travelers.

To its credit, the TSA has so far been very clear about what will and what won't be allowed on planes. What it needs to do for new regulations to succeed is to continue to communicate when policies are changed. In previous years, a fog of arbitrariness has hung over airport security procedures. The airlines and airports also need to step things up. Fliers have resisted checking bags because the airlines aren't staffing check-in desks with enough workers, because it takes too long to pick up checked baggage, and because no one can guarantee that bags will be secure. (That's a burden the TSA shares; its workers must be beyond reproach.) Airports, for their part, need to do everything they can to keep travelers flowing quickly through security. Changing the rules without allocating new resources will lead to a tremendous increase in unhappy fliers--something the airlines, in particular, can scarcely afford at this time. --Erik Torkells

• New Airport Security Measures
• Packing Strategies: What You Need to Know
• The FAA's Flight Delay Information Website

From Washingtonpost.com:
• New Rules at the Airport: What the Threat Means for Travelers
• Plus: Airline Industry Faces Setback
From Newsweek.com:
• Air Travel: What to Expect
• Travelers at Heathrow Grapple with Terrorism and Inconvenience

Posted by TechTravel at 16:18:37 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

February 28, 2006

Trip Tutor

You Did What?

Follow these overseas-etiquette tips and avoid international incidents:

Ditch the Doggy Bag: When dinning in European restaurant, it is considered gauche to take your leftovers home.

Don't Blow It: In Japan, it is deemed disgusting to blow your nose in public. Also, cloth handkerchiefs are used only to dry hands and mop brows.

Wipe Your Mouth ... but Not With That Hand: Always eat with your right hand in the primarily Muslim countries of Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The left hand is used to "toilet yourself" and is considered unclean.

Give'Em the Thumb: The A-OK sign, a circle formed with thumb and forefinger, may get you KO'd in Brazil and other parts of South America, where it is the equivalent of "giving the finger" in the States. Instead, you should used a "thumbs up."

Keep Your Hands to Yourself: In Thailand, don't pat children on the head; it is believed the spirit resided there.

- J Haupt

Posted by TechTravel at 03:59:39 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

January 31, 2006

Top 9 Travel Gift Certificates

Stumped for a gift? Travel gift certificates can solve that problem. They allow recipients to choose when they want to travel and where they want to go. (And they can help to ensure a recalcitrant traveler will get moving!)

Depending on when you buy travel gift certificates, you may be able to take advantage of promotional offers that can include free shipping, a free gift, even a small gift certificate for yourself to accompany the purchase.

1) Spa Gift Certificates

A gift certificate to travel to a romantic spa where you indulge in relaxing treatments could do wonders for both of you. Spa Finder gift certificates are available in denominations from $50-$2,000 and redeemable at many resort and day spas. These gift certificates have no expiration date when purchased online.

2) Small Luxury Hotels of the World Travel Gift Certificates

Know a luxury-loving someone who adores going first-class? Small Luxury Hotels of the World sells travel gift certificates good at its 360 member properties in 59 countries including Barnsley Gardens outside Atlanta and the Pink Beach Club in Bermuda. SLH gift certificates are sold online in 100-500-1000 denominations in US dollars, British pounds, and Euros and are good for travel within 15 months of purchase.

3) Cruise Travel Gift Certificates

Cruise Brothers — ranked among the top 15 cruise brokers by MSNBC — offers gift certificates for cruise travel through its customer care office. Before contacting the company, you may want to compare prices for specific cruises at our online travel website before making a final commitment.

4) American Airlines Vacations

American Airlines Vacations offers travel gift certificates in denominations of $25 - $1,000 that can be used for air and hotel or just hotel bookings. Larger denominations are also available. Gift certificates are not valid for flight-only bookings and are good for travel within one year from date issued. And if you have extra AAdvantage miles on your own account, you can apply those towards the purchase of a travel gift certificate.

5) Site 59 Travel Gift Certificates

Site59 offers last-minute travel to 165 destinations and offers travel gift certificates redeemable up to one year after purchase. Do acquaint yourself with Site 59's terms of service before you buy or contact Travel Agent at 866.544.0258 for assistance.

6) Jet Blue Air Travel Gift Certificates

Jet Blue, one of America's favorite low-fare airlines, offers air travel gift certificates applicable toward all the routes it flies. These gift certificates are valid for a year. They cannot be purchased online; call 1-866-544-0258 to order.

7) Bed and Breakfast Travel Gift Certificates

Good at more than 3,000 bed and breakfasts and inns in the United States, these gift certificates do not expire and are available in denominations from $50 to $3,000. They can be delivery by, email, FedEx Ground, and overnight delivery.

8) Technology Travel Gift Certificates

We offer gift certificates redeemable for all travel products. You may buy gift certificates online in many denominations; they are then delivered to your recipient's email inbox as per your instructions or gift card can be mailed. They may not be used exclusively for airfare. Gift certificates and unused portions of travel gift certificates expire one year from date of issue.

9) City Pass Gift Certificates

Know someone who's planning to visit a popular city and would appreciate the opportunity to see the sights without spending a bundle? CityPass ticket booklets provide great savings on major attractions. You can purchase a book for friends or family heading for Boston, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Hollywood, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California, and Toronto.

A1 Technology & Travel offers the experience of a lifetime, give the Gift of Travel!

Sponsored by About.com and TechnologyTravel.net

Posted by TechTravel at 03:20:26 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

December 29, 2005

SPA Travel, The New Destination Special

For Immediate Release

Contact: Nidelka Mayers

Office: 866.544.0258

Website: www.HoneymoonAffair.com

www.YourWeddingAffair.com

SPA TRAVEL,

THE NEW DESTINATION SPECIAL

December 29, 2005 – Nidelka Mayers of Your Wedding and Honeymoon Affair a Wedding and Honeymoon Coordinator at A1 Technology & Travel has been awarded the Premier Spa Specialist designation from the Travel Agent University.

The comprehensive, thorough curriculum and subsequent testing assures that Nidelka is well equipped with the knowledge necessary to create memorable spa vacations and packages. This past November, Nidelka spent time touring spa’s in Harlem NY and New York base cruise lines, updating her knowledge in day spas, hotel/resort spa, destination spa, medical spa and cruise ship spas. As a Wedding and Honeymoon Professional for 5 years, Nidelka has planned weddings & honeymoons for hundreds of clients, in wonderful destination. She chose to specialize as a Spa Specialist because she calls massages’ “healthy living, the perfect way to start a new life as husband and wife”

Your Wedding Affair and Honeymoon Affair are excited to offer you an opportunity to experience the magic of Spa relaxation with an amazing and unique sampling of spa products.

We are a proud member of Spa Finders.

About A1 Technology & Travel Services, Inc
New York City-based A1 Technology & Travel Services, Inc the parent company of Your Wedding Affair and Honeymoon Affair; provides travel and event planning services to businesses and consumers in the New York tri-state and Northern New Jersey area. Honeymoon Affair brand, specializes in honeymoons and destination weddings while Your Wedding Affair is a leader in event planning, planning and organizing wedding, special events and corporate travel events. All brands are individually operated but worked closely to provide clients a one-stop shopping experience.

- End -

Posted by TechTravel at 00:00:00 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

November 12, 2005

Flying with Kids

Travel tips for you and your child
Traveling with a baby or small child can be complicated. This site has a number of simple tips you can try to make things a little easier. Plus, there are a number of reader-submitted true stories as well as information on travel health for children and infants. If you're planning a trip to Grandma's, bookmark this site, today!
Come fly with me!

Posted by TechTravel at 23:11:26 | Permanent Link | Comments (0) |

October 20, 2005

68% Of U.S. Travelers Prefer Booking Vacations with Travel Agents

Press Release

68% of U.S. Travelers

Prefer Booking Vacations with Travel Agents

New York, NY, October 20, 2005: According to the findings of a recent study conducted by Galileo International, a leading global distribution system, and subsidiary of Cendant Corp., nearly 7 out to 10 United States adults (68%) are more comfortable booking travel plans through a professional still held in high regard by many travelers because of their personal service, destination knowledge, flexibility and recommendations. 65% of adults said the ability to sit down with an agent and discuss plans is a must have when it comes to navigating the confusing world of travel and making major vacation purchases.

The many ways that travel agents better serve consumers than the Internet include:

o The ability to book all travel plans, including air, lodging and car rental.

o Explaining just whats included and what you really get for your money.

o Clarifying offering such as refund and cancellation policies.

o Destination knowledge and often first-hand experience about destinations.

o Having access to the top industry suppliers and great deals only available to travel agents.

o Offering competitive pricing and the convenience of one-stop shopping.

Nidelka Mayers has been the owner/operator of A1 Technology & Travel services for 5 years, and has sent more than 200 of clients on vacation experiences. She specializes in Caribbean, South America, Hawaii, Fiji, Tahiti, Europe and Mexico destination; a niche specialist of Spa and Destination Weddings & Honeymoons.

About A1 Technology & Travel Services, Inc
New York City-based A1 Technology & Travel Services, Inc provides travel and event planning services to businesses and consumers in more the New York tri-state and Northern New Jersey area. Honeymoon Affair brand, specializes in honeymoons and destination weddings while Your Wedding Affair is a leader in event planning, planning and organizing wedding, special events and corporate travel events. All brands are individually operated but worked closely to provide clients a one-stop shopping experience.

A1 Technology & Travel

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