Friday, April 18, 2008

It's Better Up Here Than Ever Before

In an age where both airplanes and luxury ships are consistently boasting, 'bigger and better,' it's refreshing to see things that aren't so concentrated on massive commercial growth and impersonal service. Regional airports are perhaps the greatest method of travel left for those desiring peace and a more efficient solution for their travel needs.

Many people think of major airports and cringe at the thoughts of lines requiring hours to get through, thousands of people going in different directions at once, constant worries of baggage and claim issues, and confusing parking policies. Yet, there is one way to fly that completely removes all these worries at the same time: the regional airport.

These smaller facilities are typically just as reliable as the major commercial airlines, but with many advantages. The fares are much more affordable and the lines are far shorter. Because these airlines serve fewer passengers, you will reach your destination faster and with less hassle. You are also less likely to be held for long periods of time for taking food onboard with you. Since smaller planes are used, more flights are safely allowed, and you are less likely to be marooned due to the common problems aboard large airlines.

The ease of parking in regional airports is another convenience many passengers enjoy. The lots are smaller and more organized, and it isn't common to literally lose your vehicle amid hundreds or thousands of others. Even large regional airports offer a better experience when it comes to automobile storage.

Regional airports offer services that will take you into large cities, but also offer options of bypassing more urban areas when the final destination is on the outskirts of a major metropolitan area. These airports use smaller planes, allowing greater access to additional facilities, regardless of where you travel. Many locations are limited to regional airports, and if you choose a major line, you will need to either board a second, smaller airplane to reach your destination or drive a considerable distance.

Regional airports today are as connected as major airlines through technology. Weather, security information and all other relevant details are available through regional airports, just as with major airlines.

For a fine example of the regional possibilities for travelers, take the beautiful island of Tenerife. This is one of the Canary Islands and offers lush, tropical beauty for all visitors. The Los Rodeos Airport, or Tenerife North Airport, is a wonderful example of how these smaller facilities can take you to new and exotic locations.

The Tenerife North Airport is one of two on the island of Tenerife and will take you safely and expediently to your destination. Tenerife is a paradise of the Canary Islands and is often referred to as, 'Paradise Island.'

Cesar Manrique, a renowned artist, designed a series of seawater pools for everyone to enjoy. Manrique designed his architecture around the natural vegetation of the island and created a magnificent living work of art. Tenerife also offers botanical gardens and a gorgeous view of Teide Volcano.

Using a regional airport does not mean you are missing out on any destination; it only means you are expanding the potential of your travels to reach far more exotic locations.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/It-s-Better-Up-Here-Than-Ever-Before/157120

Friday, April 11, 2008

Cutting Down Queuing Times at Manchester Airport

We have all experienced the nightmare of the check-in desk when travelling from any airport let alone Manchester. The long queues, slow check-in personnel and the family in front that have numerous children who are all excited about going on holiday and who"s parents cannot find their passports without emptying hundreds of bags first!

None of this helps to get your holiday off to a stress free start like you deserve. Manchester Airport is one of the biggest airports in the UK and along with the likes of Jet2, BMI Baby and various other airlines they have come up with various ways to reduce check-in times. Read on to find out how to beat the queues at Manchester.

Online Check-in

Online check-in normally opens 24 hours prior to flight departure and is available from various airlines that fly out of Manchester Airport, a list of which can be found in the resource section at the bottom of this article. This service is only available for passengers travelling with hand luggage only, and all the usual security restrictions still apply.

Express Check-in

Online check-in is the brainchild of the airlines whereas Express Check-in is Manchester Airport's contribution to speeding things up. This system is advertised by Manchester Airport as "no queues no hassle". All sounds too good to be true but in reality this service is a lifesaver and a long time in coming.

Express check-in kiosks can be found scattered all around the departure lounges at Manchester Airport and are brightly coloured for easy spotting. They are all touch screen and extremely easy to use. All you need to do is input your passport, e-ticket or credit card number, follow the on screen instructions and produce your own boarding pass. All that is left for you to do then is drop your luggage off at the designated drop off point and head straight for security.

Sounds too simple and puts a lot of people off as they are required to process their booking themselves. Fear not. The kiosks are designed with simplicity in mind and are all touch screen with clear and easy to follow instructions. A dedicated member of staff is always at hand to assist you in the use of these machines so there really is no need to worry about making a mistake.

Online and express check-in has categorically reduced waiting times at Manchester Airport and will continue to reduce them as long as people continue to use them. These services are not advertised nearly enough by Manchester Airport or the airlines so it is important to spread the word.

Long queues plague the airport industry globally. The UK is lucky enough to have a handful of some the best and most efficient airports worldwide, Manchester being one of them. Anybody who has travelled back from another European airport will no doubt agree with this.

I'm sure there are variations on Express and Online check-in throughout the world so let's hope that all airports take a leaf out of Manchester's book and adopt them sooner rather than later.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Cutting-Down-Queuing-Times-at-Manchester-Airport/154302