Norway Joins Malta Holiday Flights For 2008

The island of Malta's Luqa Airport saw a record number of passenger flights arriving in 2007 thanks to the low cost airlines bringing in extra visitors, and 2008 looks set to be busier still as more competition arrives.

Now a new airline is set to bring even more tourists to Malta for summer 2008, and not from the island's traditionally strong markets of the UK and Ireland, but from Norway.

The news of flights from Norway is good news as the island seeks to diversify her tourist customer base, and looks to increase her share of the Scandanavian market.

New official figures show that this year's all important summer season has been the best in six years for Malta, reversing the decline in fortunes for the Mediterranean island.

The good news for Malta is that despite the increase in the number of tourists arriving on the island via low cost flights, the occupancy levels of hotels has increased from basic to 5 star, showing that Malta can appeal to all.

Further good news for Malta came from the figures for hotels and holidays with the news that while the number of arrivals from her traditional UK market rose by eleven per cent, the number of people from Germany visiting Malta increased by a third this year, adding strength to the holidays industry that has been reliant on tourism from one country in the past.

Both Germany and the UK have seen new low cost flight operators sucessfully applying to fly to Malta, and the increase in tourism can largely be put down to them.

2007 was a turning year for Malta, with previously poor publicity turning to good press reports in the media in both Europe and the USA.

From the UK's Coronation Street filming episodes on the island, to official reports and independent journalists praising Malta as a safe place to visit, plus reduced fares from low cost airlines, the island has seen a real pick up in her tourism trade.

In a survey of 27 European countries by the World Health Organisation for example, comparing the rates of assault and murder, the UN body found that Malta was the second safest country, with Ireland the safest. Least safe were Lithuania and Latvia.

The new report comes in addition to one from an American journalist who last year placed Malta as one of the five safest travel destinations in the world, and a new report from the US just a few months ago confirmed Malta as one of the safest vacation spots in the world.

Commenting on Malta, the report praises the island for the non existence of organised crime, especially surprising perhaps given her proximity to mainland Italy - and closer still to notorious Sicily.

A surprise for many who have driven in Malta is that the report considers the island's roads to be safe. But this is backed up by official EU figures showing Malta has the lowest road related fatalities in the EU.

Last year's report helped to promote Malta's image as a safe destination to potential tourists considering different holiday destinations. Malta ranked as one of the top five locations for safety in the world, according to American travel writer Laura McKenzie.

Much of the increase in visitor numbers for 2007 has come about since the Malta government reluctantly agreed to allow low cost airlines to fly from the UK and Ireland, traditionally Malta's strongest market for holidays. The decision to allow the low cost flights came after some time of delay by the Maltese authorities, and was too late to stop a further decline in 2006 of visitor numbers.

The Norwegian tourists will find a warm welcome awaits them on the safe sunny holiday island of Malta.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Norway-Joins-Malta-Holiday-Flights-For-2008/149167

Top 10+ Tips For Memorial Day Travel!

The holidays are here and so is the stress. There is nothing like the stress of booking tickets and traveling during the holidays. Added to that stress is airport security.

I am a former airport screener and I have made it my personal mission to help passengers get through airport security fast, safe and easy.

Here are my top ten valuable airport security tips to help you travel through airport security this holiday season. Be sure to tell me your horror stories or comments on traveling through airport security during the holidays.

1. Book your tickets as far in advanced as possible. This will lower the chance of you being chosen for secondary screening, since last minute bookings seem to increase your chances.

2. Pack light. Nothing delays the security lines more than when the x-ray operator has to ask for a rerun on a passenger's bag because they cannot determine if the contents contain a prohibited item or not. Remember that liquid medications, breast milk and baby formula are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels and creams. Pack your exempt items separate from your regular 3-1-1 carry-on items and declare them to the screener at the divesting table at x-ray.

3. Know what items are permitted and prohibited in your carry-on and checked baggage. Download the Ultimate Packing List on my contact page. 40 million prohibited items have been confiscated to date, including explosives, guns, knives and weapons. Do not be only of those passengers who delay the line by bringing a prohibited item to security checkpoint.

4. Use online check-in. The airlines will allow you to check-in no more than 24 hours in advance. This is a BIG stress reducer. If you can print out your boarding pass from home, this alone tells you that you are not scheduled for secondary screening.

5. Use curb-side check-in. The porters have to pay for their carts in some cases, so give them a little and save BIG TIME. I saved 2 to 3 hours of waiting in line when I tipped a porter $20 to check me in curb-side in Orlando.

6. Keep your cool! TSA could charge you up to $5,000 for interfering with the screening process for unruly behavior or threatening comments. This means NO joking around. Do not say any of these words: terrorist, bomb, IED, IID, George Bush and Osama bin Laden.

7. Dress for airport security. No body piercings, no thick bracelets or jewelry. No baggy pants and avoid wearing skirts or dresses. You will increase your chances of secondary screening if your clothing can easily conceal a weapon. Wear slip-on shoes! This alone will save you time.

8. Place your personal bedroom toys in checked baggage. You could shutdown an airport by mistake if they are carried in your carry-on luggage. They have similar components as an IED.

9. Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights. You don't know if the person in front of you will do something stupid and delay the line. Power outages, weapon scares, bomb threats are just a few reasons airports will shutdown for hours.

10. Normally you can get cheaper ticket prices on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. During the holidays, avoid traveling that holiday week if possible. Fly early than 10am and later than 3pm if possible. That is peak travel time for security lines.

Tell me your horror stories of going through airport security screening during the holidays.

Happy and Safe Travels!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Top-10--Tips-For-Memorial-Day-Travel-/148062

Reasons to Choose a Private Jet Vacation

You can make your next vacation extra special by enjoying a private jet vacation. Just imagine how it would feel to not have to worry about dealing with crowded airports and the rude people you find there! You will never have to worry about your flight being delayed, which can also make your next Christmas holiday, anniversary trip, honeymoon or weekend getaway the best one ever.

The worries and aggravations associated with commercial airline flights would be virtually eliminated by using a private jet or a charter jet. This is one of the reasons that it would be a great idea to use this form of travel instead of taking a commercial flight.

One of the best reasons for using a private jet for your next vacation is because of all the comfort they provide. You will have the opportunity to relax and fly in luxury when you take a private jet vacation just for you (and your traveling companions). Unlike commercial flights you will not have to share the flight with a lot of other people that you don't even know. Due to this fact you could say that your vacation begins the second that you step onto the jet. Get ready to sit back and unwind from all the stressors that life sends your way and enjoy your vacation and the journey to it.

Reliability is another great reason to take a private jet vacation. Your jet will arrive when it is supposed to and will not be held up like commercial jets often are. You can leave when you have planned to and arrive on schedule. There are no lay-overs and you will arrive when you plan to which lets you get started on your vacation faster.

When you decide to take a private jet vacation, you need to be cautious when choosing a company to use (that is if you don't own your own company). You need one that you can trust and depend on and you should always plan your trip in advance.

The more time that the company has to plan for your vacation, the easier it will be for them to meet all of your needs. When planning your next getaway think about how enjoyable it would be to travel by a private jet.

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Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com/Article/Reasons-to-Choose-a-Private-Jet-Vacation/10983

What Do You Do During A Long Flight Layover?

If you are a regular traveler you should be very familiar with overseas layovers. Non-availability of direct flights is the core reason behind layovers. For example there are no unbroken flight-routes from Hawaii to Bangkok, Thailand. You will have to deviate and go through either Japan, Korea or Taiwan.

Most travelers try to reach destinations during day-time, but the delay is unavoidable. Sometimes you only have to suffer short breaks between flights. If it is a half an hour or one hour break you will not get enough time to do anything serious. Actually most of the travelers prefer short layovers to get over that lazy feeling during traveling.

This will not be the case when you have to wait for a much longer time. You must find something interesting or something which can keep you engaged or else it will be extremely boring and irritating. We can look at some of the options available before with which you can keep yourself busy.

You can avail the airport's Internet wireless connection if you have a laptop in your hand with the necessary requisites. The facility is not free of cost but you only have to pay about 10 U.S. dollars for 24 hour Internet access. There will be reasonable speed for the connection and you can use the break for chatting or checking email.

With enough miles in your disposal and if you are qualified to access the airline lounges you can actually make your delay an excellent time-pass. These lounges in Asia are expecting businessmen and have all the comforts you need. The facilities on offer include TV, free Internet access, food and drink (including adult beverages), newspapers and excellent seating arrangements. If you are interested in sleeping you can actually inform the hostess what time you should be woken up. Some lounges provide even capabilities for showering.

Don't worry if you are not qualified to make use of the lounge because there are quality sopping arrangements available. There is an abundance of duty free shops where you can buy alcohol, perfume, cigarettes and some costly brand name supplies at a tax-free deduction.

Don't forget to ensure that you can bring the liquids on your consecutive flights. If you forget about any of the security arrangements you can retrieve your luggage and transfer it to stowed baggage. If you are willing to spend some money you can taste some of the regional cuisine at the airport.

You can also purchase at some of the small shops spread throughout the airport and receive some gifts at moderate prices. Small boxes of candy or snacks can be bought for less than 10 dollar. Almost every one of these little shops possesses a wide range of snacks and drinks. Drinking alcohol is not recommended but keep hydrated is extremely necessary. Bottled water can be ideal for this. It is available at the shops or in the vending machines that are present in big numbers.

Spending long periods of time at the airport can be extremely taxing for you. But with the opportunities on offer before you, you can convert the delay into an enjoyable time. In the present circumstances, may be the right thing to do is to sincerely search for flights with the shortest layover time. Such breaks during travel can dampen your spirits during a vacation tour. So be careful before you board a flight.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/What-Do-You-Do-During-A-Long-Flight-Layover-/147440

Heathrow's High Flying Terminal 5

Heathrow's shimmering new terminal building has now been officially opened by the Queen and the countdown's begun for the arrival of the first passengers on 27 March 2008.

British Airways and the British Airports Authority (BAA) declare that it will redefine the airport experience. Those arriving from Hong Kong next Thursday will be desperately hoping this is true.

The tatty, outdated, sprawling and overcrowded Heathrow of recent years is enough to reduce even the most refreshed longhaul flyer to tears. The existing Terminal 2 was opened in 1955 by Queen Elizabeth and is still used today. This explains a lot.

The aim is to make the 30 million BA travellers passing through T5 every year forget that they are in an airport at all. On their journey through the terminal, passengers will be surrounded by glass, steel, marble, polished wood, works of art, Bond Street style stores, upmarket eateries and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Let's hope they don't forget to get on their flights.

Nearly 20 years in design and built by 20,000 workers, the 4.3 billion pound building has been described as 'one of the most breathtaking man-made spaces in modern Britain' by the Guardian's architecture critic, Jonathan Glancey. And it certainly looks very impressive in shots of the vast empty halls with no pesky passengers and their baggage messing it all up.

Architect Mike Davies and firm Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners are responsible for this creation, as well as the Welsh Assembly building and the Pompidou Centre in Paris.

The new terminal is located on the site of a former sewage works and is currently the largest freestanding building in the UK at a mighty 40 metres high, 396 metres long and 176 metres wide. There are five levels, each one the size of 10 football pitches.

By 2011 there will be three buildings linked by an automated passenger transit system. The departure hall contains 96 check-in kiosks for self check-in; there are 20 security lanes and the biggest, single-terminal baggage handling system in Europe, containing 18km of belts and the capability to transport 12,000 bags an hour around the terminal.

All this has been designed with speed, efficiency, light and space in mind. The vision is of calm, relaxed travellers passing serenely through the airport with no nauseating stench of burgers and fries.

This week Robert Boyle, Commercial Director of British Airways, said: 'The opening of Terminal 5 heralds a new era in air travel. Customers can look forward to a calmer, smoother, simpler airport experience at Heathrow...'

The array of luxury brands and top-end high street names is an airport first, with Tiffany's, Harrod's and Prada among those lining up to start trading next week. Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsey is opening his first airport restaurant, Plane Food, and the fast food chains are conspicuous by their absence. Instead, its caffeine overload with all the usual coffee shops and cool high street favourites including Carluccio's and Wagamama.

Paul Smith is opening a new store called 'Globe' at the terminal and says, 'We are always looking for unique opportunities to create something different for our customers, and the landmark nature of Terminal 5 fits that need absolutely. From the design of the building itself through to the focus on delivering the best for the traveller at every stage of his or her journey, we like what we see.'

BA has invested in six 'boutique hotel' style airport lounges and there is also an Elemis Travel Spa. This summer the luxury Sofitel will open, one of many Heathrow airport hotels but the only one to adjoin Terminal 5.

Trying to reduce the pain of air travel for families, the terminal incorporates three children's play areas and full baby changing facilities in all toilet blocks, some with feeding chairs.

Comfortable leather seating and easy-to-see 'beacons' - displaying flight information - complete the picture of airport perfection. The transformation of the rest of Heathrow is planned to coincide with the 2012 Olympics in London.

T5 has already been outshone by new terminals at Beiing and Madrid Barajas airports in the press. Concerns have been raised about the enhanced security measures for domestic passengers at the new terminal and their effect on queues and waiting times. There has also been criticism of the use of buses to transfer passengers from the terminal building to planes on a significant number of flights.

After all the designing, planning, building and extensive trials using thousands of volunteers, I hope that Heathrow Terminal 5 is a success and the refreshing experience envisioned by those who created it.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Heathrow-s-High-Flying-Terminal-5/146794

Private Jets and Its Services

Private jets have given a new life in the corporate field especially for the big business tycoons. The private jet services have made it very easy to organize a trip. Private jets also help you to save time and energy and they are more productive and a stress-free way to fly.

Scheduling

It totally depends upon you how you have to schedule everything. You are the owner of the plane and it your will and wish when and how you have to schedule it. As you are the owner of the jet and it's your will and wish when you want to leave and when you want to come back.

Time-Saver

Time is very important in the business world because for them, time is money. While traveling from the commercial airlines the people have to wait for the scheduling and all the procedures of the airline and then they fly, which make them lose time and a loss of millions of money. But in the case of private jet you can save a lot of time and money. For business people it is the best suited thing as they loose their plenty of time at the airports standing for the flight to takeoff or to wait at the security counters, luggage counters which could cost them a millions of dollars. But if they would prefer private jets then they would be able to save their time as well as money.

Size

It's you who have to choose the plane here depending upon your requirement and suitability like you can choose from a variety of aircrafts like light jets, midsize jets and many more. This is the best luxury which you would not find it on commercial flights. Moreover the commercial domestic flights have a lesser amount of leg room and more space, but in private jets it just you who is traveling and you can make use of the full space for seating as well as luggage.

Additional Facilities

Private jets also provide facilities of meals, transportation and return service to make your trip convenient. You can also demand things of your choice. Suppose if you like non-vegetarian or vegetarian, so you can just tell your preference in advance and then can enjoy the benefits.

Added Security

The best and the most important feature is the high-level security. You don't need to worry about the luggage and don't need to stand on queue. You will get a high-level security, as you don't need to stand up for different security check ups and will be provided a private security which would make you save time and would increase your security for yourself and your luggage.

Choose your Airport

By using private jets you can choose the airport where you want to land. You can also decide to land in an area which is less crowded and can save your time.

You can get the maximum amount of security, flexibility, privacy and comfort in a private jet than in any other mode of transport. These services are available for everyone 24*7. You just need to contact the private jet services about your full trip and then you would be able to enjoy the benefits of it and have a safe and a wonderful journey.

While looking to all these benefits of the private jets, most of the business houses now prefer these flights instead of commercial airlines so as to save time and money.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Private-Jets-and-Its-Services/145702

Frequent Flyer Programs Get the Most Out of Your Miles

* Does the airline fly where you're likely to want to go?

* Are there tie-ins with other carriers, especially those with international routes? Is some of the airline's service provided by commuter-carrier "partners"? In both cases, can you earn credits and use awards on those other airlines?

* How many miles (or trips) are required for particular awards?

* Is there a minimum award per flight (e.g., you are only flying 200 miles but the airline always awards at least 500)?

* Is there a deadline for using accumulated miles?

* Carefully examine the number and length of any "blackout periods" during which awards cannot be used. On some carriers, the Thanksgiving blackout may last a week.
* If you are planning a big trip and are thinking about joining that airline's frequent-flyer program, enroll before you travel. Airlines usually won't credit mileage that was flown before you became a member.

After you join a program, there are other things that you should know:

* Airlines reserve the right to make changes to their programs, sometimes on short notice. The number of miles required for particular awards might be raised, requiring you to use your old mileage (i.e., your current balance) under the more restrictive new rules. The airline may cease service on a route that you were particularly interested in-or it may drop the city you live in! The carrier may eliminate attractive frequent-flyer tie-ins with particular airlines or hotel chains.

* Cashing in your mileage frequently will limit your losses in case the carrier changes the rules, merges, or goes out of business. (Some private companies sell insurance covering some of these eventualities.) Accumulating a larger mileage balance will entitle you to bigger awards, however.

* Carriers often limit the number of seats on each flight for which frequent-flyer awards can be used. You may not be able to get reservations on your first- or second-choice dates or flights.

* Awards can often be issued in the name of immediate family members. However, if you sell or give an award to someone not named on the award or the travel document and the airline finds out, the recipient could have his or her ticket confiscated, and the carrier may penalize the program member's account balance.

* Ask the airline how mileage is registered; you will probably have to identify yourself as a program member when you book your flight or when you check in.

* Keep your boarding passes and the passenger coupon of your ticket until you receive a statement from the frequent-flyer program reflecting the correct mileage earnings for that trip. If a problem arises, get the names of the people you speak with and keep notes of your conversations.

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Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com/Article/Frequent-Flyer-Programs---Get-the-Most-Out-of-Your-Miles/15030

Private Jets Dream To Fly This Way

The prices that might seem astronomical to the average man or woman on the street for chartering a private jet might seem like extravagance gone truly mad but many of us who struggle to afford our one week's holiday every year, the people to whom charter jet companies advertise their wares are those who earn more money in a week than many of us are likely to see in a lifetime. So let's pretend that we're rich and famous so, what are the advantages to chartering a private jet?

Obviously there are many advantages of chartering a private jet as the ever-increasing rise of celebrity means that many of the people earning the sort of pay check that would merit commissioning a private jet are all too well known, meaning they would cause a crisis of sorts for the staff trying to deal with the many other issues involved in making a flight run smoothly. Not to suggest that all celebrities are the thoughtful types, this attention is as abhorrent to them when they are not working, as it is difficult to the staff attending the flight. For many celebrities, privacy is all important, and chartering a private jet allows them to keep to themselves.

So what about those people who are quiet rich who go for a private jet, why don't they save their money and go for airline flights and fly with us? Because chartering a private jet has many other advantages, and yes the going rate might seem exorbitant to those of us earning five figure sums, the money spent on private jets must be put into perspective. The relative amount that the wealthy spend on this type of travel is probably not much more than we spend on our own flights the thing is they earn much more and so can spend accordingly. And while they might save a few tens of thousands of dollars by flying more economically, does it really worth?

Private jets offer the ultimate in in-flight service as he or she is only customer on board and so, the person hiring a private jet receives the full attention of the flight staff, meaning that he or she can enjoy anything at any time. This fits neatly into the lifestyle of the wealthy, where money buys the best of the service so, why compromise just because you're airborne?

Private jets might seem the ultimate luxury to the ordinary man on the street, but to the very wealthy, chartering a private jet is as natural as riding in limo for them. So until you can make your first million, it is better you go for airline flights but one can always dream!!!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Private-Jets-Dream-To-Fly-This-Way/145710

Private Jets Improving Lives

All those people who have a plenty of assets and don't want to waste their time they opt for private jets instead of those people who have the time to waste or lose but can wait at the airport but do not have that much assets to go for a private jet. But there are persons like that who can't waste even a single minute as each minute would cost them $1,000,000. These persons prefer using private jets instead of losing their time at the airports.

If you want to get rid of all those difficulties then you should opt to travel in private jets. You can choose your jet according to your preference and book it by giving a four hour notice along with a pilot. You can also cater the private jets according to your needs like if you want it for a meeting or a birthday party or a honeymooners getaway flight.

You can also enjoy all the benefits of a private jet as the other superstars do. It is not compulsory for you to buy a private jet rather that you can rent it. While travelling in different airlines, a person can be strenuous, if you do it often and doing it whole a day, when traveling for business purpose.

The comfort and leisure in a private jet is far better than in commercial airlines. There is no need to book ahead in private jets as in the case of commercial airlines.

In the big companies the high-end executives are offered flight tickets for their job purpose and the chairmen and the directors are given private chartered jets for their purpose. It also proves the thing that small private business jet is beneficial and effective.

There is one more benefit of private planes which other big planes doesn't have i.e. they have an ability to fly with ease form the small municipal and rural airports. While comparing the cost of buying or renting a private jet you would find out they are very expensive, but the benefits of the jet covers it completely.

When you are looking for a trip then it is not difficult at all. You just have to rent the private jet rentals and they would take care of your whole trip consisting of booking of rooms, transfer from airport and many more things as well.

Nowadays there are large numbers of people who are carrying on private jet services as they get a good amount of profit as the people these days find it as a great service.

There are people who fly from these private jets and for them even a minute can cost millions of dollars. Those who travel through private jets take their comfort and convenience as the first priority. You can search on the internet and get the latest updates on buying or renting a private jet.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Private-Jets-Improving-Lives/145713

Good Service Can Beat Low Fares In 2008

After years of having little competition, Air Malta has had to contend with a host of rivals entering Malta's airspace in the lst two years and competing for the same passengers.

The number of people visiting Malta has risen well as a result, and fares to the holiday island have come down in the island's main UK customer base, but new routes have also started in otherwise unchartered territories for Malta's tourism industry, including Norway and Spain.

Faced with the new competition the airline opened new routes - notably Liverpool in the North West of England - but also cut her offers with various offers.

The most notable difference though for frequent flyers to Malta either on business or for Malta holidays has been the level of service offered by the airline, setting them apart from the new low cost airlines flying to the island's Luqa Airport.

One example of the airline's success at providing a quality service has been the lack of losing their passengers luggage - while some airlines are notorious for upsetting passengers by frequently losing their luggage, the airline has proved to be the best in Europe.

'There was real concern before the advent of the low cost carriers that the established Malta airline would be knocked out of the skies' comments one Malta travel site, 'but they have approached the situation well and not only tried to match the fares, but gone a step further by improving the quality of service and opening new routes too - impressive.'

New official figures show that last year's all important summer season had been the best in six years for Malta, reversing the decline in fortunes for the Mediterranean island.

The good news for Malta is that despite the increase in the number of tourists arriving on the island via low cost flights, the occupancy levels of hotels has increased from basic to 5 star, showing that Malta can appeal to all.

Further good news for Malta came from the figures for hotels and holidays with the news that while the number of arrivals from her traditional UK market rose by eleven per cent, the number of people from Germany visiting Malta increased by a third this year, adding strength to the holidays industry that has been reliant on tourism from one country in the past, and even Spanish tourists now visiting the island.

And Malta's airline has shown that you can visit the island in comfort, and still pay less for the airfare than two years ago!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Good-Service-Can-Beat-Low-Fares-In-2008/145390

The Different Types Of Helicopters

Not many people know much about helicopters, how they work and the different kinds that you get. They can be used for various different things from business travel and leisure travel to buying a helicopter charter as a gift for someone. Although you do not need to know anything about helicopters to do this, it may help you make your decision when it comes to choosing a helicopter.

Just as with pretty much everything, helicopters generally fit into certain classifications. There are three main types which include light piston - engine types, light turbine helicopters and twin engine helicopters. The type of helicopter used may affect your helicopter charter because it could make it faster or more expensive.

The light piston - engine types have two or three sears, the initial costs are low and has speeds from 80 - 110 miles per hour. This means that you can only go on a helicopter charter with one other person but it is likely to be cheaper than other types of aircraft because its running costs are quite low.

Light turbine helicopters are very popular throughout the world. One type, The Jet Ranger is the most popular turbine helicopter and is suitable for a helicopter charter. There are many reasons why this aircraft is so popular but many people simply like the way it looks and the fact that they tend to be very quick. This is particular beneficial to any businesses who choose to travel this way because time is money and therefore the faster you get somewhere, the less money you are using.

Twin engine helicopters are very different to those which have been previously mentioned. The price bracket alone increases significantly but it is important to remember that you definitely get what you pay for. Not only do you get a faster machine, but it has also designed to be a lot safer. This means that you can travel to destinations that you can't do on the other types of helicopters. For example, you could go on a helicopter charter to the other side of the country rather than just around where you are close to.

Helicopters can seem like a daunting topic because there isn't as much about them in the media as something such as cars. However, it is easy to get the basic information through books and on the internet. As well as this any company that sells them or offers helicopter charters will be more than happy to answer any questions.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/The-Different-Types-Of-Helicopters/140509

The Pain of Getting Stranded at the Airport

You arrive at the airport 2 hours early for security. Airport security is such a big deal these days but the line at the security and immigration desk is a stretch of several hundred people. For some passengers their passports have to be photocopied.This means the clerk has to walk over to the copy machine and back each time. The machine is slow and the papers need to be changed. Glancing at the clock on the wall, you realise you are now within 20 minutes of missing your flight. You feel like running through the gate, but the mean looking security personnel stop you in your tracks. Patience, patience and more patience.

Now, it's your turn to go through the process. The security turn you inside out. You think they are finished but then they realise you have a new tooth paste wrapped in some shopping bags. This rouses their suspicion, so they now want to empty everything. Before you know it, they fish out the silver coated handcrafted figurine that was given to you as a birth day present. They want you to declare it to customs.You feel like breaking down and crying. You,uncharacteristically, yell at him that you are going to miss your flight. He lets you go.

So you barely get to the gate only to find that your flight is delayed 20 minutes. That stretches to an hour. Then 2 hours. Then three. No one giving you any information. Rumours start going around that they suspect a bomb on the plane, that there's a part missing and a new jet will be brought in. Surely, this is your second delay on this journey. You wonder whether your trip is jinxed.

You have been sleeping for 5 hours. Finally you see people and dogs on the tarmac heading to the plane. Off you go to join them. Is this scenario familiar? This is when you feel like owning a home at the airport. But because you can not have it, an under cover airport hotel is the nearest and the best option.

Undercover Hotels
We have all wished for it, haven't we? An hotel near the airport or a facility that will cut the risk or running around the underground, train or bus in your business suit looking bleary. Holiday Extras have one such product. This is where pre-booking an undercover hotel comes in handy.

There are three key reasons why undercover hotels are a great option. They are convenient, prices are lower than the advertised rates and they are mostly located very close to the airport. Undercover Hotels are available across key sites including Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester as well as Glasgow, Stansted and East Midlands.

Pre-booking an airport hotel before you travel can save you pounds and ensure a good night's sleep. Under covered hotels are reasonably priced. Rates for much below market rates.The specific hotel you will be staying in remains a mystery untill you have made your booking, however all undercover hotels are between 3 and 4 star in quality. The rooms come with a15 days secure airport parking for those driving. This offer would certainly help travelers start a holiday with a smile.

You can avoid checking those distressed rates against a hotel's online rates while hoping that the airline will compensate you in some way for the delay and the consequent hotel bill, whether it be paying for a portion of the hotel room or offering some flight credits. It makes a crazy stressful holiday to travel and live rough at the airport when you would be comforted knowing there's a an under cover hotel at the airport for you to book at very low rates.

Airport Parking
If you are lucky to enough to drive to the airport rather than sleep at the airport, then you need a parking. When parking lots fill up, travelers can spend precious moments circling for parking, possibly missing their flights.The parking crunch isn't just affecting travelers catching a flight. It's a problem for the people picking them up, too.

When airport parking lots are filled up, drivers are forced to park off the airport. This forces them to take buses back to the terminal to meet arriving passengers. Airport hotels and airport hotels with parking are the right options if you want to avoid these inconveniences. It would a good idea to check and pre-book your parking if you are going to busy airports such as Gatwick airport and Heathrow airport. There are many options and rates that are worth looking at.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/The-Pain-of-Getting-Stranded-at-the-Airport/140814

Dont Lose Your Bag

With more and more people traveling, the airlines are handling more and more bags. With the new regulations, allowing you two bags of 50 lbs. each instead of one large one, they are also handling more lightweight luggage than every before. According to the newspapers, baggage losses are increasing. What are the steps you can take to insure your bags arrive at your chosen destination? These steps are easy to follow and are mostly common sense. First, remove all of the old tags. You may like looking like a world traveler, but your bar code on the bags should be only for the current destination. Arrive at the airport early enough for your luggage to be loaded onto your plane. One hour is the estimate for domestic flights and two hours for international flights. During especially busy times, increase these times by at least 30 to 60 minutes.

Be sure to identify your luggage. Use bright colored luggage tags and use two to a bag. Put one on the top handle and one on the side handle. This way, another passenger won't pick it up accidentally. Put your name and address and telephone number inside each bag as well as your destination address and phone number. Use only TSA baggage locks so airport security personnel can easily open the bag. The locks are also available in bright colors to coordinate or contrast with your color scheme. Monogrammed luggage is easily identifiable and very unlikely to be picked up accidentally. If you have nondescript luggage, use handle wraps or bright colored luggage straps to give it an identifiable personality that says, "it is your bag." If you use the handle wraps, again use two per bag. Put one the top handle and one on the side carry handle. A ribbon or piece of colored string alone can easily fall off. Use the travel accessories designed for the purpose of identifying your bag. These are more permanent.

Always wait until your luggage is ticketed before walking away at the airline counter. Be sure to remove straps and piggyback loops before sending your baggage through at the terminal. You don't want to leave parts hanging that will catch on the conveyer belt or other machinery. This could hold up or damage luggage. Also, make sure your luggage is in good shape and can withstand the rigors of travel. A damaged bag will be held up and may not make it onto your plane. Keep a packing list so you can remember what was in each bag. Remember to also keep all of your valuables in your carryon bag. An extra pair of glasses or any medications you need should also be kept with you. A change of clothing is helpful in case your bag is temporarily delayed. Small packing cubes are convenient to be packed with a few necessities should baggage be delayed. These packing cubes are popular corporate gifts and can have a company name or logo silk-screened or embroidered on them. They are very practical for travelers as they fit easily into carryon bags.

After taking all of the precautions, should your discount luggage still go astray, be sure to make a claim with the airline immediately. Do it before you leave the airport terminal. There is an office or claim area located near the luggage carousel. Be sure to get a telephone number where you can follow up the airline claim. Get the representative's name and the have the claim form filled out. Make sure you get a copy of the form and that the information is correct. Give them your local number and cell phone number. Hopefully, your misplaced luggage will arrive on your doorstep by early the next morning.

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Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com/Article/Don-t-Lose-Your-Bag/15046

Yes, Napa Valley, but Which Airport?

You want to go to California wine country--and for good reason. Not only will you see the scenic splendor of soft hills covered with vineyards, but you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy the history, architecture, and some of the best restaurants in the U.S. However, since Napa and Sonoma Valleys don't have their own commercial airports, you will need to select among airports nearby, including the Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa, and the airports in Sacramento (SMF), San Francisco (SFO), and Oakland (OAK).

Picking the right airport can definitely impact your costs and enjoyment of the California Wine Country. Here I'll review the pros and cons of each airport so you can pick the one that suits you best.

Oakland Airport (OAK)

Can we talk? Oakland Airport is my least favorite choice because its highways are congested, and the drive to Napa passes through urban sprawl.

If you do select this airport, be especially careful with timing. You won't want to mix rush-hour traffic with trying to make a flight.

On the other hand, Oakland Airport offers the most budget airfares in Northern California.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

If you are visiting both the Bay Area and Napa Valley, this airport is a good choice.

The San Francisco Airport offers the most non-stop flights into Northern California. And, with Southwest, AirTran, and Frontier serving SFO, you can get airfares as low as Oakland's.

However, just traveling toward Napa, you can get stuck in traffic congestion, or even worse, rush-hour slowdowns.

Here's a route that cuts down on congestion by avoiding downtown San Francisco: From the airport, take westbound Interstate 380, which starts just north of the rental car terminal. Then take the northbound I-280 freeway, northbound Highway 1, and then the Golden Gate Bridge for better scenery, even though you'll encounter some stop and go driving on Highway 1 in San Francisco.

Beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, your route will depend on your first stop, but see the link at the bottom of this article for instructions on locating the most scenic drives through Napa and Sonoma Valleys.

Sacramento Airport (SMF)

The Sacramento Airport is probably used least for access to the Wine Country, and yet I often prefer it.

With a population nearing 2 million, Sacramento benefits from extensive air service, including budget airlines, such as JetBlue and Southwest, which help to keep the fares down of all the airlines serving this airport.

In addition, you don't have to drive through dense urban areas to get to Napa Valley. In fact, you don't have to drive through Sacramento at all, which allows you to avoid rush-hour congestion.

Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS)

Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport reopened to commercial flights in 2007. It is often called the Sonoma County Airport, and also referred to as the Wine Country Airport or Santa Rosa Airport.

(The airport is named for the famous Charles Schulz, creator of Charlie Brown and his pals. Charles Schulz lived in Santa Rosa and nearby Sebastopol for more than 30 years.)

Commercial airlines serving the Sonoma Airport include Alaska Airlines' Horizon Air arriving from Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland. Delta may also begin service to Sonoma Airport.

With little airline competition and few commercial flights, the biggest disadvantage to choosing this airport is high prices for flights and rental cars.

However, you may very well balance these higher costs with excellent deals on hotel rooms in Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and garden-filled Santa Rosa (my favorite), all near the Sonoma Airport. For extra savings, you may wish to use Priceline's "name your own price" bidding, available for these cities.

The strongest reasons to select the Sonoma Airport come down to beauty and proximity. Using scenic Highway 12 from Santa Rosa, a route lined with wineries--some world-renowned--you're one hour from Napa and 45 minutes from the Sonoma Plaza. St. Helena in the upper Napa Valley is approximately 30 minutes from the airport.

And, on top of breathtaking beauty, this choice can steer you clear of Bay Area congestion.

You Pick

As you can see, if you want to see California's gorgeous wine country, you CAN get there from here. I've told you my preferences--San Francisco Airport if I'm visiting the Bay Area too, or Sacramento Airport if I'm just going to the Wine Country. And, nonstop flights to Sonoma County Airport will certainly appeal to travelers who live in Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle.

But of course choose according to your own needs and preferences. I hope my summary of pros and cons has helped you decide which airport will work best for your next trip to Napa and Sonoma Valleys.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Yes--Napa-Valley--but-Which-Airport-/140671

Booking a Flights Online

Once you have decided about the destination and the duration of stay, then your next step is to pick an online travel agent who can find best flight deal for you. Now, while choosing an online travel agent, following things should be kept in mind.

• Problems with Travel Affiliates
There are few websites, which are using travel services of other air travel agents, and these travel websites are called Affiliates. There are chances that you may not get the best flight deal or if you face any problem, then the problem is not being resolved.

• Is your travel agent reliable?
If you need best flight deal for you then make sure that your travel agent is reliable and can offer you the same. It doesn't make any sense that you are asking for business class flights and travel agent reserve economy flights at same price.

• Is the website secure?
Make sure your travel agent's website is secure and can handle all the transaction effectively and securely, because most of the travel websites on the internet are not secure which leads to Credit Card Fraud. For this you can check the security seal on the website like, Verisign, Thawte, etc.

• Reputation on the Internet?
You may check the online reputation of your travel agent by reading feedback or researching some time on the web. This will give you a brief idea about the travel agent.

• Support during emergency?
Most of the online travel agents do not provide support, when you encounter any problem at the destination. Do ask you travel agent about the type of support they offer. There should be no ambiguity in your mind about the help & support offered by your travel agent.

These were the few things, which should be kept in mind while booking a flight on the internet. Once you have made your decision about the travel agencies, the next thing is finding the cheap flight deals for yourself.
For a best flight deal you should go for return flights instead of one way flights. If you book return flights, you are likely to get the best flight deal.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Booking-a-Flights-Online/142434

Cheaper Airfares Keeping Families Closer Together

It's getting easier for family members who live in different locations to get together these days. Though flight costs once impeded frequent get-togethers, they are now spurring family reunions.

The Internet, with its e-mail, webcams and instant messaging continues to transform work, retirement and communication. People no longer feel isolated if they live in different cities or even different countries. Now, people can work, study or retire anywhere and still feel connected to those they love. With more people living further away from family, it's become a boon to the airline and travel industries.

Many retirees in search of abundant year round sun are retiring in locations that take them further from "home." Lower airfares now allow family to visit them more in their new habitat. They afford opportunities for the retirees to get back home more often.

Today's global marketplace and the opening up of borders mean increased career opportunities away from home. This is especially true in Europe with the expansion of the EU eastward. Workers can migrate across the continent freely in search of employment. It's become the new reality.

This phenomenon goes beyond Europe, though, with the United States also a career and retirement destination. For retirees, the southern states of California, Arizona and Florida are prime retirement locales.

When it comes time to retire though, many Europeans still seek their place in the sun in Spain. The mainland of this country, along with its beautiful islands remains a popular retirement option.

Spain is the third most popular travel destination in the world. The mainland boasts a wonderful Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot. Moderate temperatures are the norm along the coast in the winter, with the islands warmer. Those wanting to escape winter's clutches now choose Spain more than ever. Consequently, when people retire, they are choosing Spain as home, and not just for a vacation spot.

The Balearic Islands, which belong to Spain, offer the exact comforts that many retired people seek. The main islands that compose the Balearics, in the Mediterranean, are Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Those looking to change their lifestyle to one of contemplative, as well as active leisure, increasingly choose one of them. It's no wonder, with the Balearic's enjoying approximately 300 hundred days of sunshine a year.

Menorca is the second largest of these islands. Known for its lovely beaches and relaxing atmosphere it beckons those that want life sunny side up. The island has 120 beaches in an exotic environment of coves, cliffs and forest backgrounds. Mahon, the capital of Menorca, sits by a splendid natural harbor.

Majorca, a sister island to Menorca also known by its Spanish name Mallorca, offers a tapestry of locales for those wishing to travel or retire there. Again, it's a lure to those seeking retirement where sun is a constant companion. This island comprises impressive mountains in the interior and verdant countryside. It is home to the capital city, Palma - which is of a slower pace - and deemed a 'walking city.'

Of course, Majorca has a lively resort area, an equally lively nightlife and fantastic beaches. Culturally speaking, it contains many churches and mansions of great architecture in the historic section of Palma. The island is all things to all types of people who visit it or choose to make it their permanent home.

No matter where one lives in the world, low airfares are making it easier for families to congregate regularly. Be it a trip back to one's native land, or an invite to join someone on a Spanish beach, inexpensive air travel unites families.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Cheaper-Airfares-Keeping-Families-Closer-Together/144474

How to Handle an Airline Complaint

Take notes at the time the incident occurs and jot down the names of the carrier employees with whom you dealt. Keep all of your travel documents (ticket receipts, baggage check stubs, boarding passes, etc.) as well as receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses that were incurred as a result of the mishandling. Here are some helpful tips should you choose to write a letter.

* Type the letter and, if at all possible, limit it to one page in length.

* Include your daytime telephone number (with area code).

* No matter how angry you might be, keep your letter businesslike in tone and don't exaggerate what happened. If the complaint sounds very vehement or sarcastic, you might wait a day and then consider rewriting it.

* Describe what happened, and give dates, cities, and flight numbers or flight times.

* Send copies, never the originals, of tickets and receipts or other documents that can back up your claim.

* Include the names of any employees who were rude or made things worse, as well as anyone who might have been especially helpful.

* Don't clutter up your complaint with petty gripes that can obscure what you're really angry about.

* Let the airline know if you've suffered any special inconvenience or monetary losses.

* Say just what you expect the carrier to do to make amends. An airline may offer to settle your claim with a check or some other kind of compensation, possibly free transportation. You might want a written apology from a rude employee or reimbursement for some loss you incurred-but the airline needs to know what you want before it can decide what action to take.

* Be reasonable. If your demands are way out of line, your letter might earn you a polite apology and a place in the airline's crank files.

If you follow these guidelines, the airlines will probably treat your complaint seriously. Your letter will help them to determine what caused your problem, as well as to suggest actions the company can take to keep the same thing from happening to other people.

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Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com/Article/How-to-Handle-an-Airline-Complaint/15057

Security or Big Brother at Heathrow T5?

When the first passengers arrive at Heathrow's shiny new Terminal 5 on Thursday 27 March 2008 from Hong Kong, those transferring onto a domestic flight will have their photograph taken and fingerprints scanned.

In these troubled times security is naturally a priority in a new international airport terminal. But what security systems are in place at T5? And could they be a threat to our civil liberties?

BAA, the owners of Heathrow, and British Airways, who will have exclusive use of T5, insist that biometric screening is a government requirement and a necessity in the new terminal because domestic and international passengers are brought together in one departure lounge. All domestic and international passengers transferring onto a domestic flight will be screened.

The theory is that an international connecting passenger could otherwise swap documents with a domestic passenger and bypass immigration control at their final destination.

On presentation of ID or boarding card at biometric security, passengers will have their right hand scanned and face a camera to be photographed. The information recorded will then be checked at the boarding gate.

BA states on its website, "Afterwards we delete the records, so don't worry about your fingerprints being kept on file."

But some people are worried. There are a number of airports around the world where domestic and international passengers already mix, but such a security measure is not in place. There is a concern that this is being casually introduced to desensitise the British public to the significance of routine fingerprinting, and as a precursor to ID cards.

Liberty, the civil liberties and human rights group, is opposed to ID cards on the basis that they erode our privacy, cost millions in public money and are questionable in terms of security. Government-run databases have not had a good press recently after disasters with Child Benefit and DVLA data.

There is anxiety that personal information could get into the wrong hands. On their website BAA say that all personal data will be encrypted immediately, not used for any other purpose and destroyed within 24 hours. Is the system open to abuse? BA was the worst performing European airline last year with regards to lost luggage, according to a study carried out by the Air Transport Users Council (AUC). Can we trust them with our identities?

If passports and boarding passes are checked thoroughly is this additional measure actually necessary? Some may also worry that staff will become distracted by fingerprinting and photographing and not be as vigilant with their traditional security checks. Anyone refusing to provide their data will be denied entry to their flight.

On a practical level, what effect will biometric screening have on queues and delays?

BAA has invested heavily in CCTV in its state-of-the-art terminal and will be using 46 'pan-tilt-zoom' cameras known as 'Metal Mickeys' as part of a security and data hub. Someone will definitely be watching you, but do you mind? For many, CCTV is reassuring but others find it a threat to their freedom.

Advanced Threat Identification is the terminal's new baggage security system. Its X-ray scanners can identify explosives and liquids and take multiple views of luggage in the same time that the old machines could show one view. An automatic tray return system will allow suspicious bags to be separated and quickly sent into a separate channel.

The usual security regulations and restrictions will apply with respect to hand luggage and hold baggage. Future passengers at Terminal 5 should check with BA and Heathrow for up to date information before they fly.

The Queen will officially open Terminal 5 on Friday 14 March. I wonder if she would agree to have her fingerprints scanned?

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Security-or-Big-Brother-at-Heathrow-T5-/142897

I Am The Travel Genie. I Can Show You How A Big Family Can Fly And Travel Easy

Are you interested in taking a family vacation soon? If you are, you may be looking for some guidance. In the future you and your family will be required to travel by airplane. It could be stressful.

It can sometimes be a hassle to take a trip and fly with a family. Especially one that is large in size. There are a number of steps that can be taken to ensure that everyone has a fun and pleasant time.

One of the first things that you will want to do,when looking to plan a family vacation, is to make your airline reservations early. You will likely be better off when doing so, for a number of different reasons.

Perhaps, the greatest reason is the comfort and peace of mind. Get relaxed from knowing that all of your travel arrangements are made and out of the way.

As for packing for your flight, you will want to make sure that the children packed the bags properly. You want to make sure that they have all the needed supplies for your vacation.

You will also want to make sure that they have items for the airplane ride as well. Each person gets to have one carry on bag. You will want to make sure that each of your kids has one.

Speaking of carry on bags for your children, be sure to fill them will fun activities for the plane ride. What you will choose will all depend on the child age.

For example, younger children may benefit from books and a few small toys. For older children, portable DVD players, handheld video games, toys, and magazines are a great idea.

You will also want to make sure that you have extra snacks on hand and in your carry on bags. This is important, as you do not want to have to spend too much money at the airport.

It can get costly to feed a whole family, even just with snacks. For that same reason, try to have everyone eat a full meal before you leave for the airport.

This step combined with snacks can help to reduce hunger. The savings in shared meals during airport layovers can also help you save money for shopping.

As for drinks, do not bring any with you to the airport, unless you have a newborn or an infant. If you have a baby, bring one prepared bottle of formula. Make sure to have some dry formula powder with you to prepare during a layover.

Drinks, with the exception of drinks for kids, are not allowed past airport security checkpoints. They will have to be thrown away.

When buying drinks at an airport store past security, look for for items that are reasonably priced. See if some family members, like you and your spouse, can share a drink.

As for when you arrive at the airport, be sure to stay together. Also, be sure to set ground rules with your children. These rules should include sticking together.

Do not speak to strangers, and so forth. In fact, you will want to help each other out.

For example, if you have an older child, like a teenager, let them help you with finding the right gate. Ask them to help in carrying bags, or keeping any younger children occupied. Your trip will likely be much less stressful when everyone works together.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/I-Am-The-Travel-Genie--I-Can-Show-You-How-A-Big-Family-Can-Fly-And-Travel-Easy/143974

Stress Free Airline Travel

These are some simple tips to make airline travel more stress-free. By planning ahead, and following the airline rules and regulations, you should be able to have an enjoyable trip. While you cannot always be prepared for the unexpected delay, by following these suggestions you'll be ready to enjoy your travel time and maybe even look forward to it. Call the airlines at least four hours prior to leaving to check on your flight. Print out your own boarding pass by going to the airline website before leaving for the airport. This will help to speed you along when you arrive at the departures area. You can also check your lightweight luggage curbside at many airports. Have your luggage tags on the bags, and remove all old travel stickers. Be at the airport early enough to go through security and arrive at the gate with enough time to buy yourself a snack and some great reading material. There are often delays, so anticipate them and be early! Always add extra time during peak travel periods. The usual guideline is one hour on domestic flights and two hours on international flights. Factor in some extra time giving you enough leeway for all of the unexpected time consuming delays that are inevitable when you're running behind.

Keep your discount luggage packed within the airline weight restrictions. These are generally fifty pounds per piece with a maximum of two pieces per person. Use only the TSA locks which is the lock allowed by the airlines. Always check the baggage information before hand as airlines do differ in their regulations. Overweight luggage will incur extra baggage handling charges, and that will hold you up getting to the gate. If you are taking too many bags, you can also be charged extra. Pack your luggage neatly and do not overstuff your bag. If security decides to go through your luggage, they need to be able to repack the bag easily. Packing cubes are extremely handy and will organize your bag. They will keep small items together and your underclothing in one place. Since liquids and gels now need to be packed in your luggage, wrap them securely. Keep them in a lined case for this purpose to protect your clothing. Gifts must be kept unwrapped in your luggage also.

Be sure your carryon bag and personal bag are the right size for the airline you are using. Do not attempt to bring on more than allowed. You'll either have to gate check, or go back to the baggage area. Check with the airlines before hand, so you will not hold up the boarding process. Pack your carryon with the correct travel accessories. The 3-1-1 bags is the only way you can carry liquids or gels onto the plane. This is a one-quart clear zippered bag with 3 ounce bottles or less inside. Do leave your pocketknife and scissors at home or in your checked luggage. Be prepared to take off your shoes, belts with buckles, and your coat or jacket as you go through security. Your laptop, your shoes and your liquids in the 3-1-1 bags need to be put through separately. If you're carrying any gifts, keep them unwrapped. Do not overstuff any of your hand carried bags, as this will hold you up if security chooses to go through your bag. Keep everything neat, and use those packing cubes to organize everything.

To avoid holding up the line, and to keep the travelers behind you from becoming over-stressed, have your boarding pass and passport or photo identification handy at all times. Travel wallets are ideal for this purpose. There are convenient models that you wear around your neck, so you are not fumbling or searching when asked to provide this information. These airport express wallets are popular as corporate gifts. They often have a company name or logo monogrammed or silk-screened on them. They can also be monogrammed with your own initials. All of these tips should help you to have a more enjoyable trip that is stress free!

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Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com/Article/Stress-Free-Airline-Travel/15099

Airline Luggage and Travel Tips

What are the size and weight restrictions for my luggage?

- Since the Airlines luggage restrictions are going through a recent period frequent change, you should check directly with your Airline as to size, weight and number of bags that you can check and carry-on.

- In many cases, the Airlines have added new limits on both carry-on and checked baggage. You should check, but most Airlines limit their carry-on bags to a range of 14" to 16" high, 21" to 24" wide, and 8" to 9" deep. The lower limits are for under seat storage and larger limits for the more generous overhead compartment. A 45" total (height+width+depth) can be used as a basic guideline to see if your bag will be allowed as a carry-on.

- Most Airlines have a carry-on weight limit of 40 pounds and a checked baggage weight limit of 70 pounds.

- Some Airlines allow you a larger size and weight for your first bag, but have more restrictive limits for additional bags.

- Many Airlines limits vary if you are taking a domestic or international flight, are flying first, business or coach class or if you are a member of their premium membership clubs.

- All limits are much more strictly enforced then in the past. Bags are weighed at check-in and many Airlines have placed bag-sizers at their gates. If your carry-on bags are too big, you will have to check them and that might cause them to be classified as "extra bags" which usually carries an extra charge. If you bags are too heavy, you can be charged a rather high overweight luggage charge.

How many pieces of luggage can I take with me?

- Just because you sneaked it on once, do not always expect to get away with it. More rigorous enforcement of the rules and more and more bag-sizer stations will likely catch you now. This is especially true during the holidays and other peak flying times when the Airlines are watching closely since the planes are full and everyone is trying to sneak lots of stuff on the plane.

- During periods of high security, you may be required to check items you would normally be allowed to carry onboard the aircraft.

- Most Airlines allow for a combination of three bags to be divided among your carry-on and checked baggage. You will want to check with your specific Airline, since there are differences in their allowance programs. The Airlines also look at some items differently; some will count a laptop or briefcase against your allowance, while others will not.

- You may be allowed to bring more luggage free of charge if you are traveling on a first or business class ticket or are a member of the Airlines premium membership club.

- If you plan on bringing extra luggage, you had better check with the Airline to see if they will allow it on the plane. Even if you are willing to pay an extra fee, they can still refuse your extra luggage if the plane is already full. If you do receive permission to bring the extra luggage, have the person granting the permission note this on your reservation and be sure to get their name.

- If you are changing Airlines during your trip, you will need to take into account the luggage limits for all the Airlines you will use. What is acceptable to one Airline may bring an extra charge on another.

- Check the regulations when making connecting flights in European or other foreign countries. You may be held to more restrictive luggage limits while flying within the area than you did flying into the area.

- If you are flying on a commuter Airline for any leg of your trip, you will need to know their luggage limits. Many commuter Airlines have limited space and only allow carry-on baggage, they also have more restrictive weight limits.

How can I avoid extra charges for my luggage?

- Know the luggage limits on all the Airlines you will use on your trip and try to stay within those limits.

- Do not over pack, overweight bags have caused a great many injuries to baggage handlers. To try to discourage people, the Airlines often charge a hefty fee for handling an overweight bag.

- If you really need the items, then you should check into paying the extra bag fee. It is usually cheaper to divide your items into two bags and pay the extra bag fee than pay one overweight bag charge. You might also avoid the embarrassment of having your luggage explode because they are packed too full.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Airline-Luggage-and-Travel-Tips/143221

A Low Cost Airline to Render You The Best In Budget Travel

Budget Airlines, also known as low cost airlines, discount carries, or no frill airlines, have revolutionized the way the people travel. With the introduction of the budget airlines, even a common man can now dream of air travels, which was once just confined to upper class people as well as business executives.

A budget airline is simply a category of airlines that render low fare services via cutting off majority of traditional passenger services. In other words, budget airlines are flight carriers that provide services at exceptionally low rates. Sometimes, budget airlines could even fetch you more than 50% discount.

The concept of budget airlines was first introduced in the United States. During the 1990s, it spread to Europe, and later gradually to Asian destinations. Now this concept has become popular across the world.

Today, many of the reputable airlines in the scenario provide low cost airline services and that too without sacrificing the quality of services. Budget airlines generally make available low fare services through adopting certain practices, such as, providing food options to be paid separately rather than providing it as an all inclusive service and by providing seating on the basis of 'first come, first fill,' ie, in the case of budget airlines, the plane is boarded just as a bus and as such, seats would be occupied by those who would come first. In fact, budget airlines have now become one of the smartest ways to travel.

Some of the salient features of budget airlines are single traveler class, single category of airplane that reduces training as well as servicing expenses, easy fare scheme, unreserved seating systems, early flights in order to eliminate delays in air traffic, short flights, ticket sales via the internet, thereby enabling passengers to save money in the form of commissions and fees paid to travel agents, issuance of tickets in electronic format, absence of services such as in flight catering services as well as other complimentary services.

In the case of budget airlines, the pricing of air fares is based on the duration of time between booking and departure. The earlier you make bookings for airfare, much cheaper would be the airfare. Similarly, in order to fill the unsold seat in the plane, some airlines would slash the price prior to a few days before its departure.

A specialty of most of the budget airlines is that they cater to almost all types of travelers. For instance, some airlines operate budget flights according to the convenience of the business travelers. There are certain airlines providing incredible deals on air fares for students as well as leisurely travelers. In most cases, budget airline fares are flexible, al though, in some instances, these airlines may charge a nominal fee to make changes in flight reservations.

A budget airline provides almost the same superb services that a standard airline offers, such as excellent dining options, superb entertainment facilities, and comfortable as well as soft cabins. Additionally, some of the budget airlines render special services for passengers such as elderly travelers, children traveling alone or not accompanied by their parents, pregnant as well as passengers flying with infants, and passengers who have visual, speech, or hearing imparity.

With the introduction of the internet, it has become quite easy to find a budget airline. Many of the airlines have their own websites with facilities for online ticket booking. This in turn is very convenient. It is not only beneficial for hassle-free bookings but also enable you to know whether they provide any kind of discount or deals for traveling within a stipulated period or during a particular season such as Christmas or New Year. All you have to do is to just log into their website and inform them regarding the destination you are going to travel and date of departure.

All of the rest they will take care. In addition, airfare bookings online is economical, as it enables you to save pennies on issuing tickets. The airlines, in most cases, sent confirmation through a simple document containing flight details as well as booking reference. When you make payments and bookings online, it allows you to easily take a print out of this document as soon as the booking process is completed. In short, with just a click of a mouse you can make bookings for a comfortable air journey.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/A-Low-Cost-Airline-to-Render-You-The-Best-In-Budget-Travel/143893

Uninterrupted Travel By Air With Children

Most people choose to travel by air because it is a quick method of getting from one location to another. For couples that choose to take their children with them when they travel, booking airline tickets is the easy part. Finding tickets is made simple through online airline ticket retailers who typically have groups of seats for purchase.

Coordinating the needs of several little people at one time can be quite nerve racking for the parents however, and they must devise ways of amusing their children throughout the route that their travels take them. The last thing that a parent wants to happen is for the travel itinerary to be delayed for any reason. Parents know that the children will need naps to ensure that their personalities remain at their best throughout the travel by air.

Some parents introduce their children to the concept of travel by reading books to them that talk about airplanes and how far they go up in the sky. While waiting for their boarding time, some parents might visit the airport gift shop and purchase a toy airplane for their children to play with during the flight. They might choose to pick up little snacks that they know their children like so that they can enjoy them on the aircraft.

To ensure uninterrupted travel by air with children, some parents will make several visits to the airport restrooms before boarding their airline flight. With the children safely secured in their seats, the parents can busy themselves in reassuring their children that they will reach their destination in a very short time and telling them that they can listen to music in headphones that a stewardess will bring them after they are in the air.

Airlines are famous for making special boarding accommodations for couples that are traveling with children. These travel passengers will usually board first, well ahead of first class passengers and business travelers. By the time everyone is on board the aircraft, the parents have achieved their mission of making sure that all children in the group are secured and have what they need before the plane takes off.

For parents traveling by air with children, changing planes is never considered an option. This type of traveler will make sure that every ticket they purchase is on a flight that is non-stop. They never want to have to change planes and orchestrate the transfer of several children through a busy airport. If it must happen, parents will ask the airlines for special accommodations and a tram will meet the family at the gate and whisk them away to their new arrival gate waiting area.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Uninterrupted-Travel-By-Air-With-Children/144056

Top 10+ Tips For Holiday Travel!

The holidays are here and so is the stress. There is nothing like the stress of booking tickets and traveling during the holidays. Added to that stress is airport security.

I am a former airport screener and I have made it my personal mission to help passengers get through airport security fast, safe and easy.

Here are my top ten valuable airport security tips to help you travel through airport security this holiday season. Be sure to tell me your horror stories or comments on traveling through airport security during the holidays.

1. Book your tickets as far in advanced as possible. This will lower the chance of you being chosen for secondary screening, since last minute bookings seem to increase your chances.

2. Pack light. Nothing delays the security lines more than when the x-ray operator has to ask for a rerun on a passenger's bag because they cannot determine if the contents contain a prohibited item or not. Remember that liquid medications, breast milk and baby formula are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels and creams. Pack your exempt items separate from your regular 3-1-1 carry-on items and declare them to the screener at the divesting table at x-ray.

3. Know what items are permitted and prohibited in your carry-on and checked baggage. Download the Ultimate Packing List on my contact page. 40 million prohibited items have been confiscated to date, including explosives, guns, knives and weapons. Do not be only of those passengers who delay the line by bringing a prohibited item to security checkpoint.

4. Use online check-in. The airlines will allow you to check-in no more than 24 hours in advance. This is a BIG stress reducer. If you can print out your boarding pass from home, this alone tells you that you are not scheduled for secondary screening.

5. Use curb-side check-in. The porters have to pay for their carts in some cases, so give them a little and save BIG TIME. I saved 2 to 3 hours of waiting in line when I tipped a porter $20 to check me in curb-side in Orlando.

6. Keep your cool! TSA could charge you up to $5,000 for interfering with the screening process for unruly behavior or threatening comments. This means NO joking around. Do not say any of these words: terrorist, bomb, IED, IID, George Bush and Osama bin Laden.

7. Dress for airport security. No body piercings, no thick bracelets or jewelry. No baggy pants and avoid wearing skirts or dresses. You will increase your chances of secondary screening if your clothing can easily conceal a weapon. Wear slip-on shoes! This alone will save you time.

8. Place your personal bedroom toys in checked baggage. You could shutdown an airport by mistake if they are carried in your carry-on luggage. They have similar components as an IED.

9. Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights. You don't know if the person in front of you will do something stupid and delay the line. Power outages, weapon scares, bomb threats are just a few reasons airports will shutdown for hours.

10. Normally you can get cheaper ticket prices on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. During the holidays, avoid traveling that holiday week if possible. Fly early than 10am and later than 3pm if possible. That is peak travel time for security lines.

Tell me your horror stories of going through airport security screening during the holidays.

Happy and Safe Travels!

Natalia Ippolito, a former airport screener and author of: I MIGHT AS WELL BE NAKED: How to Survive Airport Screening With Your Clothes On. Receive her FREE Tip of The Week, Sample Chapter Ultimate Packing List or Unknown Violations and Fines Report at www.airportbook.com

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Top-10--Tips-For-Holiday-Travel-/98604

Top 10+ Tips For Holiday Travel!

The holidays are here and so is the stress. There is nothing like the stress of booking tickets and traveling during the holidays. Added to that stress is airport security.

I am a former airport screener and I have made it my personal mission to help passengers get through airport security fast, safe and easy.

Here are my top ten valuable airport security tips to help you travel through airport security this holiday season. Be sure to tell me your horror stories or comments on traveling through airport security during the holidays.

1. Book your tickets as far in advanced as possible. This will lower the chance of you being chosen for secondary screening, since last minute bookings seem to increase your chances.

2. Pack light. Nothing delays the security lines more than when the x-ray operator has to ask for a rerun on a passenger's bag because they cannot determine if the contents contain a prohibited item or not. Remember that liquid medications, breast milk and baby formula are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels and creams. Pack your exempt items separate from your regular 3-1-1 carry-on items and declare them to the screener at the divesting table at x-ray.

3. Know what items are permitted and prohibited in your carry-on and checked baggage. Download the Ultimate Packing List on my contact page. 40 million prohibited items have been confiscated to date, including explosives, guns, knives and weapons. Do not be only of those passengers who delay the line by bringing a prohibited item to security checkpoint.

4. Use online check-in. The airlines will allow you to check-in no more than 24 hours in advance. This is a BIG stress reducer. If you can print out your boarding pass from home, this alone tells you that you are not scheduled for secondary screening.

5. Use curb-side check-in. The porters have to pay for their carts in some cases, so give them a little and save BIG TIME. I saved 2 to 3 hours of waiting in line when I tipped a porter $20 to check me in curb-side in Orlando.

6. Keep your cool! TSA could charge you up to $5,000 for interfering with the screening process for unruly behavior or threatening comments. This means NO joking around. Do not say any of these words: terrorist, bomb, IED, IID, George Bush and Osama bin Laden.

7. Dress for airport security. No body piercings, no thick bracelets or jewelry. No baggy pants and avoid wearing skirts or dresses. You will increase your chances of secondary screening if your clothing can easily conceal a weapon. Wear slip-on shoes! This alone will save you time.

8. Place your personal bedroom toys in checked baggage. You could shutdown an airport by mistake if they are carried in your carry-on luggage. They have similar components as an IED.

9. Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights. You don't know if the person in front of you will do something stupid and delay the line. Power outages, weapon scares, bomb threats are just a few reasons airports will shutdown for hours.

10. Normally you can get cheaper ticket prices on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. During the holidays, avoid traveling that holiday week if possible. Fly early than 10am and later than 3pm if possible. That is peak travel time for security lines.

Tell me your horror stories of going through airport security screening during the holidays.

Happy and Safe Travels!

Natalia Ippolito, a former airport screener and author of: I MIGHT AS WELL BE NAKED: How to Survive Airport Screening With Your Clothes On. Receive her FREE Tip of The Week, Sample Chapter Ultimate Packing List or Unknown Violations and Fines Report at www.airportbook.com

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Top-10--Tips-For-Holiday-Travel-/98601

Flight Last Minute Tickets - Compromises You Might Have To Make

It is not impossible to get any flight last minute tickets, but you might have to make some compromises to avail of them. If you have not been thoughtful enough to book early on, or if some circumstances have created an urgent travel for you, then you might need to rely on last minute tickets. It is a fact that it makes better sense to book tickets in advance.

There are many advantages of such prior bookings. First and foremost, you can get flights and seats of your choice. You will be able to land at a time chosen by you, and not by the airline, since the choice of flight will be in your hands. And, most importantly, you will be able to buy at the listed rate of the tickets.

However, it should not be assumed that by getting your flight last minute tickets, you will have to pay any more than you would normally be paying. In fact, there are ways in which you can save money by your last minute flight tickets also. But, it is also a fact that you might not actually get what you are looking for.

Firstly, you might not get seats and flights of your preference. With the flight last minute tickets, you will have to settle with the flights that are available and you will not get to make a choice for yourself. Certainly, you will also not be able to get the seats of your choice, since they are given on a priority basis to the early bookers. In short, you will be saddled with what the airlines gives you.

Then, there could be other things to put up with. At the last moment, all the popular flights will be full. So, you will find it very difficult to get daytime flights. Even weekend flights will be difficult to get. This is a major problem with flight last minute tickets. Mostly, you will get a flight on a weekday when everyone is too busy to travel, or at an unearthly hour of the day, when the whole city you land in will be asleep and you will find it difficult to get transport up to your point of accommodation.

A more serious compensation with flight last minute tickets is that you might not be flown to the airport of your choice. Since flights to these airports will be booked in advance, you might have to land at some obscure airport a little behind your destination. There could also be difficulty in getting a direct flight, and you might have to put up with a connecting flight. That means, your compensation for last minute flight booking could be wasting time in connecting flights.

However, it should be noted that it is possible to fly at the last minute if you really need that. And it is not necessary to pay through the nose either - you can save money if you know how to do it in the right way. But you might not get the usual luxury when you get such flight last minute tickets. That is a compensation you might have to put up with.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Flight-Last-Minute-Tickets---Compromises-You-Might-Have-To-Make/98885

Discount Flights Last Minute - Getting Them From The Internet

If you want to have discount flights last minute, then it is quite true that the Internet can be your best resource for that. The Internet is the prime area of business for airlines - this is where they promote their services and take bookings. For any airline service, the amount of tickets sold over the Internet is quite easily higher than those sold through the travel agents.

The Internet is not only a great source for reservation of flight tickets, but it is also very good for getting last minute flights for various airline services. In fact, airlines rely too much on their websites to get their last minute unsold and canceled tickets sold. That is the reason why it makes the best sense to visit the website of any airline if you want a ticket on their flight at the 11th hour.

Becoming a member on airline websites is a very good idea. All airlines have memberships for their websites, which you can either avail of freely, or you can get when you book a ticket with them. It pays to become a member of airline sites. Firstly, they will provide you air miles reward points for every time you book tickets with them. You can later cash these rewards when you are booking more tickets with them. But, the main advantage is that becoming a member of airline sites could be your best way to get some discount flights last minute tickets.

When you become the member of airline websites, they will ask you whether you want to subscribe for their newsletters. You must do that. You must also enroll for their email notifications. This will enable you to know about promotional offers that they bring out from time to time. Also, if you are a member of airline websites, you stand a much higher chance to get discount flights last minute if you ever need them.

All you will have to do will be to log in to the website and check for availability. If they have last minute tickets, they will give them to you on a priority basis since you are a member of the site. For this reason, it is widely acknowledged that the Internet is the richest source to get discount flights last minute tickets. In fact, you can even encash your air miles rewards points, since you are member of their program, and get a much better discount on your travel. Once in a while, you could get a totally free ticket, even if you are booking at the last moment.

Today, airline carriers have recognized the need of their last minute travelers. They know fully well that these people are very important for them to cut on their losses. That explains why the airlines themselves are going all out to serve their last minute travelers.

One way of doing this is to prominently advertise their last minute tickets on the Internet, from where they can get the most customers. Some airlines even go as far as holding out a couple of tickets to be sold to the last minute tickets. Certainly, the airlines are going all out to provide discount flights last minute to their loyal clients.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Discount-Flights-Last-Minute---Getting-Them-From-The-Internet/98854

Airline Cheap Flights Last Minute - Compensations You Might Have To Make

Getting airline cheap flights last minute is very possible, whatever carrier service you might opt for. There are the flight tickets that remain unsold, which could be given away at low prices to anyone that might come by. Similarly, there are cancellations all the time. Canceled tickets are also almost thrown away to last minute travelers.

Despite there being possibilities for getting flights, you must remember that these flights may not be exactly cheap. Some airlines would like to cash in on the demand and ask for better prices from needy passengers. That is why passengers may have to put up with ridiculously high prices. However, if you are ready to make some allowances in the way you travel, then you might get up with good airline cheap flights.

Here are some comprises you might have to make. In most cases, the popular flights are always full. Hence, if you want to save money - or even get a last minute ticket, for that matter - then you would do better to opt for a ticket from a lesser known flight.

Small allowances can also help you get flights last. Like, you can try taking a flight on a busy weekday when very few people usually travel. Try to avoid the weekends as these flights are always full. You will also get these flights cheap. Another way to save money here is to go in for a night landing flight. These flights are not very popular because at night, it is difficult - and a bit risky - to get transportation from the airport to the point of accommodation.

Sometimes, when you do not get tickets to the airport of your choice, one way out is to try and get a ticket on a stopover flight. You will be losing some time this way, but the ticket will be cheaper. However, try for a connecting flight rather than changing flights. If you are looking for airline cheap flights, changing flights will not work because they will actually make your travel more expensive.

Even trying to depart from your source airport at an unearthly hour can help you get a ticket. These flights are not very popular among flying folk, and you can get cheap flights here too. The advantage is that you will be reaching your destination earlier in the day.

If you are ready to make allowances like these, it is possible that you will get tickets as you want them. You should only know where to look.

Some good places for getting cheap flights are the websites of the airline services, the offices of the airlines at the airports and the travel booking offices, in that order.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Airline-Cheap-Flights-Last-Minute---Compensations-You-Might-Have-To-Make/98774

Cheapest Flights Last Minute And How To Get Them

There are several avenues to get some cheapest flights last minute, but you must know where to go to get them. Here are some ways by which you can get them. Some of these could be quite obvious, but it is worthwhile making a total list of the options available.

The first method is, of course, to get the unsold and canceled tickets that every airline gets stuck with at the last moment. In order to avoid a loss to them, airline services do not mind giving away these tickets at extremely low prices. If you visit the airline websites, you can get some of these tickets. Even travel booking agents will have a stock of such cheapest flights last minute tickets which you can avail of by contacting them a few hours prior to when you want to leave.

One more sure way of getting cheapest flights last minute is to approach the courier services. Many reputed courier services will have packages to be delivered all over the world. If they have a shortage of staff - which they most usually have - then you can offer your services to deliver the package for them. By choosing your destination, you can get a free ticket that these courier services generally avail of.

If you are an air miles member of an airline service, then you will receive email notifications about their offers on flights, which are mostly at discounted rates. Be alert when such notifications come. If you are planning to travel someplace and there is a flight going there, you must respond promptly to the offer.

Firstly, it will be a discounted flight. Secondly, since you are an air miles reward-holder, you will get much better prices. In fact, this can be the best way to get your cheapest flights last minute, because by cashing in your air miles rewards points, you might even be able to fly free, and that too by booking at the very last minute.

You can get some good cheapest flights last minute if you are willing to compromise a little on your travel. For instance, if you are willing to take a night flight - which is not very popular among people - you might save even up to 50% of the total ticket fares. These flights are also not full generally, so it is easy to get tickets on them. Another compromise you can do is to be willing to land at a smaller airport. If you land a little away from the main city and then travel there by public transport, you will be able to save a pretty sum on the total ticket.

Similarly, you can get cheapest flights last minute if you look for the newer and lesser-known airline services. These airlines need not necessarily be of poor quality - they are low-priced only for promotion sake. They might be a very good option for you to get tickets at low prices. It is also worthwhile to become a air miles rewards holder of such airline services because there is a possibility of getting continuous good offers from them as long as they are promoting. And, when the airlines grows in stature, they will not forget their original loyal customers. Their rewards will come in the form of better ticket rates for you, and priority in reservations.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Cheapest-Flights-Last-Minute-And-How-To-Get-Them/98713