A CruiseOne Franchise

Barcelona in the Rain

2013-05-13T15:07:00.001-05:00

Didn't get to explore Barcelona like I would have and planned to do. I had a wonderful passenger behind me on the 9hr plan ride that talked straight for 8 of those hours - despite two polite requests if she could lower her voice. As if all the passengers with blinds on around her were not hint enough. Plans were to sleep 6 or so hours on the plan and be refreshed for arriving in Barcelona at 8:30AM their time.

Instead I transitioned from a steady out-pour of useless information to a steady down-pour of rain.

I went straight to my hotel which graciously and immediately checked me in - wet and tired. Sercotel Abbott is a nice, clean budget hotel about a 12 euro taxi ride from Las Ramblas (the main road for tourists in Barcelona). Word of warning though, the hotel room walls are as thin as paper so you hear everything. But, staff is very friendly and helpful and the breakfast buffet was included, not skimpy either. For $100 USD, I found it a bargain for a one-night stay.

After a sleep through some of the rain, I was wisked away to Corodobes Tablao Flamenco. I had purchased a dinner and a show for 8:30PM and was escorted to my table with a choice of free-flowing Sangria, wine or other options. You really get in the mood with a beautifully concocted Sangria. I'm pretty sure I drank almost a whole pitcher by myself. The show itself had a very authentic feel and the dancers, at many points, gave me goosebumps with their intensity. While the singers were not as impressive, they did grind out the songs with sincerity. I would have to recommend to anyone - try the show and dinner at Cordobes for a step back in history. While the food was interesting, there wasn't a lot I went back for seconds on the buffet. But, it was worth a first hand sampling of local foods. And bonus: ordering the show plus buffet gets you up front seats for the show. This is excellent to see the foot work in your face.

A couple of other quick stops along the way would be to try some tapas at a street cafe and visit the La Boqueria right off Las Ramblas. Although the boqueria is packed with people it is worth the sights and photos of food, fish and other unidentifiable items not seen in U.S. markets.

Despite the constant rain, I felt I was able to skim the top of Barcelona history and a tip of the culture in the one day allotted. I would give Barcelona a good 2-3 days for a generous taste. Weel, off for a cruise of France - but that's another blog.

7 Reasons to Use a Home-Based Travel Agent

2012-12-10T11:46:00.000-06:00

According to Wikipedia, one in five workers around the globe work from home and nearly 10% work from home everyday. Maybe 'homebased' has a negative connotation for you? These days when so many people telecommute or work from home you may already be dealing with a home based service person over the phone and don't even know it - even for that giant corporation. So why would you consider working with a home-based travel agent?

They are always close to their office. Most home based agents, now known as travel advisors, are steps away from their office even when they are not working. They are either physically within reach or are very technologically savvy and carry their office with them. Wouldn't you want a to be able to reach a human or get a call back from a human within a reasonable time period?
They don't have the overhead. Home based agents don't have the overhead that comes with running even a small office so it doesn't get passed on to you during your vacation booking.
They will come to you! Because a travel advisor does not have an actual office space, they are more willing to meet you at your office or someplace fun for lunch or coffee to discuss your travel plans.
You are their bread and butter. They don't get a regular salary from anyone. What they earn, they earn because they are loyal to their clients and will do everything in their power to make sure you have the best vacation experience possible - their future depends on it.
They are entrepreneurial. One definition I like is entrepreneurs are innovators in the process of shattering the status. Travel advisors are looking to achieve goals and take risk in order to see results. Don't you want someone like that planning your vacation?
They are promoting Green! It's great to give back to the planet by not driving to work everyday or creating the need for new office space and expenses. Without trying, a home based agent accomplishes a great contribution to going green.
They have connections. It is imperative to a home based travel agent to create connections in the travel industry in order to meet the needs of their client. They do this through relationships with district service managers for hotels, cruises, airlines, etc., attending conferences and trade shows to build their network and more. These connections allow them to plan a vacation for you where they have personal knowledge of the venue and a personal connection to achieve your vacation goals.

You can also consider this list as reasons to use a Home-Based Travel Agent versus an Online Booking System - because this is what sets them apart. Virtually they have the same function, 'to book a vacation for you'. But, the travel advisor can go where no online booking system can - beyond function - toward value.

Always boils down to time and money!

2012-10-17T10:40:00.003-05:00

I received this email the other day and thought it would be a great post. It is a good example - no matter what industry you are looking at, to understand if you are looking for VALUE or PRICE when you shop.

Email: "we are doing a 14 day eastern/southern Caribbean(9 ports of call) on Holland America out of Tampa in January for $999 inside or $1049 outside obstructed. HA is a couple of grades above Carnival too for food and amenities. The $500 would be a rip for Carnival and Cozumel from Galveston the only stop for what its worth."

My Reply: Thanks so much for forwarding this to me - I always love to talk about your options in cruising. You bring up an interesting point and what you are talking about is supply and demand and volume.

The greatest demand in the cruise industry is for 3-4 night cruises to the caribbean during holiday periods. Spring break period (March and April) is a holiday period. And during holiday periods, cruise lines do not offer extra amenities to groups. In addition, Texas port charges are slightly higher than Florida but then you don't have airfare to Florida.

It does come down to time and money in getting the best value. People who can take off more time and invest a little more will get a better value. For example, one of the better values if you are interested in the caribbean is to take a 10+ cruise out of Florida during September or October (the lowest season), or other off season periods.

I should point out too that if you are listing a price of $999, it does not include the port charges or government fees (government fees will most always make the amount with cents). So you are probably looking at about another $200 per person or so on the cruise mentioned.

Three to four day cruises are the 'cheapest', but they do not provide the best value. Unfortunately, most people cannot afford to take very much time off work - or they just don't have the money to invest in getting a better value. Always boils down to time and money!

A note: Although Holland is in the same cruise class as Carnival (contemporary), each cruise line has their own personality and strengths - Hollands is food as they bring onboard well known chefs. The age group of Holland is older than Carnival on average by about 10-15 years.

I hope this gives a good explanation. And, if you have a flexible schedule, we can definitely find better 'value' for your money with a longer cruise, different sail dates and potentially a different port if you don't mind airfare.

Top 7 Reasons Mexico is Back

2012-09-25T11:02:00.001-05:00

Mexico has had a difficult time lately, as has other venues for travel (such as cruising). But the experienced traveler is aware that most incidents are isolated or require you to be a smart traveler.

There are indications on the horizon that Mexico is finally making a come-back and they are sorely missed. Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches, rivers and mountains and a people that make you feel welcome. What are those indications?

MLT Vacations is reporting that some areas of Mexico are up almost 50 percent for 2013 bookings - and they partner with about 47 percent of the US and Canada's flights to mexico.
Mexico opened it's doors through a recent event, 'ATMEX' where over 200 travel agents from around the world were invited to experience some of the unique AND safe offerings in the Veracruz, gulf area. A location quickly accessible by Texas travelers.
Riviera Nayarit achieves Virtuoso status. If you aren't sure what this means - it means Riviera Nayarit is considered a high-end product worth spotlighting as a new destination.
Mexico recieves "Tourism Board of the Year' Award. Mexico Secretary of Tourism, Gloria Buevara Manzano received the prize at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. They were recognized for 'the work performed and...partnerships with major travel agents worldwide.
For the last several years, Mexico has either received an award or been nominated by the World Travel Awards for:
- Leading Beach
- Leading Tourist Board
- Leading Beach Destination
Condé Nast Traveler 2011 Readers' Choice Awards lists Mexico's top cities, resorts and cities.
Because we miss them!

If you don't want to take everyone else's word for it - it's time to check out Mexico again yourself.

So I'm on a bus ride from Catemaco...

2012-09-10T16:03:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, I can't really read, text or tweet (even if it's short) when bus riding because I get motion sickness :) Turning my head for short conversations can result in queasiness and it’s not the conversationalists’ subject matter. So staring out the window to what’s ahead is my best bet and usually is rewarding.

I found myself looking for things that were different in the vast expanses of Veracruz as I was leaving Catemaco. Interesting things of note:

1. A donkey on the highway, bundled with a load of sticks.

2. Taxi for four but fitted with seven riders.

3. Clothes hung to dry from the roof tops.

4. Catholic Mass being held inside a shopping mall.

5. Second story balconies with rails.

But even when I noted these differences, I knew I had seen them in other cultures, maybe just not mine. More importantly though, I found it easier to list of things that I found the same in my own home town…

· A child waving enthusiastically at a bus load of tourists (I’m on that bus).

· Crafts for sale roadside by entrepreneurs.

· Children in their school uniforms chatting as they go.

· Bicyclist riding along major roads for pleasure and work.

· Shrines put up road side for those we love or for whom we workship.

I travel to see what’s new but when I experience sameness, it can bring comfort and inner peace. Just to know all over this world we share basic needs and wants. So we all are about living life…which of these is in your culture?

You Can Afford a Travel Agent

2012-05-03T12:30:00.000-05:00

How much time does a person spend researching travel online? At least 20% spend an average of five hours or more with at least 60% spending at least two hours. Even if you love the research, how do you sift through all that information?

When you consider that most travel agents are paid directly by the vendor, not by you or they have a small fee, usually around $30-50, why not use them to do some research for you or help you sift through the data.

We have established they don't charge that much, if anything - what else can they bring to the table. Experience. If they have been there, done that, they are going to save you the time and mistakes that go with the first time travel or cruise. In addition, they have all their clients experiences under their belt as well. A very rich base of knowledge. You can look through the Internet all you want but experience helps you decide what to do with it.

How do you know you are getting an agent with experience? Ask them the following questions: - How long have you been in the business? - What travel agent organization are you a member of and are you certified? - Have you traveled to the location I'm wanting to book? - What are your connections in the industry? - How do you stay up-to-date on the industry?

Some other things you can do is check out their social media sites like Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter and see what they have been up to, what do they focus on and do they take care of their clients.

So, travel like you're rich! Use a travel agent and get that extra layer of icing on the cake and skip those extra mistakes you may have made that you don't have time to make on your precious vacation time.

When should you book a vacation?

2012-04-09T11:48:00.000-05:00

No, this isn't a source to know what day, time, week, month to book a vacation. This is a look at the bigger picture. I read something here recently from a travel editor who could not understand why people have the mindset that they can't getaway for a vacation.

I can answer that. I experienced it first hand as child and all the way through my teen years. My father was in the ministry. Because of that, I attended many, many weddings and funerals. I saw people on the day their lives were starting out and all the hopes and dreams they had. I sat in funeral homes and listened to all the hope and dreams that had not yet been realized, and never would be. It didn't take me long to put it all together and understand waiting for the special day to take that special getaway with that special person was indeed something you shouldn't wait for.

Why were people waiting? Well, I heard all kinds of reasons - not enough time, not enough money saved up yet, busy raising kids, trying to buy their home and the list went on. What I also realized is these were just excuses and the real reason they had not taken that dream vacation was - it was not a priority. Travel was not a state of mind. It was that simple.

I don't come from a background of having a lot of money, nor having a lot of time because I was always working to make money. But I took vacations. They were my priority. I thought it was more important to grab what I could from life, where I could and not save it all up for that long awaited getaway on some far off date.

I'm glad I did! The memories I have gained and carry with me every day enrich my life, they change me for the better and I grow each day because of them. How one-dimensional I would have been for the better part of my life if I hadn't gone for these memories now. What if I had waited, who would I be?

If you took your getaway now - who would you become?

Can you gift a cruise?

2011-12-12T15:30:00.002-06:00

According to a retail analyst, 32.4 percent, nearly 1/3 of consumers said they would have their holiday shopping done by December 18th. 11.9 percent would not be finished until Christmas eve.

Great news for about 50% of the shoppers who still don't have their Christmas gift list complete - you can gift a cruise!

Whether your budget is $20, $200 or $2000 plus, there is a cruise gift for everyone. You can buy a cruise certificate from most of your local cruise agents in a denomination you want to spend. The great thing is, the person receiving the cruise gift can use it when they want (ask your agent for a one to two year redemption option, or more) and where they would like to travel and what cabin they would like to have on the cruise.

So, if you haven't thought of that very special, very different gift to give this year...a cruise is a really great option! What better gift, no matter how much you spend, can give someone the hopes, dreams and excitment of all the places, events and entertainment a cruise ship can provide.

How to Avoid the Demise of a Vacation

2011-10-19T09:33:00.007-05:00

Egypt, Greece and the list goes on of unrest. Hurricanes, volcanoes and the list goes on of natural disasters.

I particularly keep track of those events because I book my clients to cruises all over the world and I myself am taking a cruise that specifically stops in some of these affected places.

If I look on the positive side, I can't help but be thankful for both myself and my clients. Out of all the vacations you can plan, a cruise is one you can avoid most negative elements. We are not stuck in a volatile situation - we can leave a port or not visit a port and move on to the next place. We may have some disruption or changes in our cruise schedule but we are not adding thousands of souls to the damaged areas.

So plan carefully, opt for a cruise if you can and no matter what add travel insurance for the unexpected. Give yourself every out so your vacation has the best chance of survival.

Top 10: How do you know when you have a GREAT travel agent?

2011-10-12T10:55:00.003-05:00

Disclaimer: Author is a travel agent :)

You have their cell phone number and email address.
(Or at least they are willing to give them to you when you ask for it.) It’s not about reaching them between set office hours. It’s about how quickly you can get your answers.

You get a response within 24 hours or less.
Now remember, they may be on vacation too but they should have left alternate contact information whom you can depend on just as much.

They use social media while on vacation.
And let me clarify, it’s not for their own marketing purposes. It’s because they are so driven and obsessed with travel and making sure their clients have the latest information they are willing to put out a blog, send a tweet or post to Facebook DURING vacation just so you have the latest and greatest info.

They don’t always tell you what you want to hear.
You enlist the help of a professional because they have the expertise. Like any relationship, you won’t always agree on the options, no one should be pushing agendas and everyone should be compromising for the best outcome.

They will, no matter how many times you say no, ask you if you need travel insurance.
If you were on our end and experienced every single vacation with every single vacationer and heard every single story – good and bad you would never leave home without it – we don’t. So we will always encourage you, multiple times, to get coverage.

They will quote you what you ask for and always offer something more.
It’s not because our main goal is to upsell you (which we should do like any good business person), but because we know how little you get to vacation, how much you spend and how much you really need to get away and sometimes a $100 or two hundred is nothing compared to what you will get in return. We are trying to get you to buy in to the memories.

You get a handwritten note from them.
At least once a year on a special occasion. No matter how many clients you get in a customer service industry, someone should show they took at least a couple of minutes to jot down a few sentences about how important you are.

You should hear from them after your vacation.
Heaven forbid that you don’t hear from them before or during – that is grounds for divorce! But most importantly you should hear from them after you get home. A welcome home card or note, a quick questionnaire to find out how things went, something.

They are glad to hear from you.
No matter whether you are complaining or complementing do they sound happy to hear from you. I certainly hope so – you are never an inconvenience.

They want to put things right.
No matter how great your travel agent is, they are only human and mistakes will occur. This is when your agent will show their true colors. Do they disappear and become difficult to reach, do they give you excuses or do they keep in touch with you every step of the way while some type of resolution is in progress. The outcome may not be what you expect but the agent better be trying 150 percent.

I put together this little top ten on how you know you have a great travel agent based on responses from my own clients as well as my view of other industries and what I expect as far as customer service. I hope these tips are helpful when you look for that life-long partnership with a travel agent.

A day in the life of this Cruise agent

2011-10-06T11:20:00.003-05:00

Welcome to my Oasis. It’s a little place where I have joined together my past life as a web production, social media person with my love for cruising. It’s this combination that drew me to CruiseOne where integrating new technologies and cruising specialties make life as a franchise owner easier.

I’m all about easy, simple and balance. I spread that belief throughout my entire life, not just my work, which I even hesitate to call work. Sometimes the required details of a transaction can be less than attractive but I like spending the time in my Oasis and looking up to see the day is done and I never watched the clock. I call it my Oasis because I have created an office desk, which is giant, to look like a Bali spa area not excluding palm trees, coconut oil scent and island music in the background. (See the picture above.) What can I say, my work, I take it with me.

So while I set in the Oasis (after my morning swim – you knew I couldn’t create an oasis without water!) I digest email, drink my vitamin breakfast, read my blogs and feeds, post to Facebook, network on LinkedIn and tweet. I’m also obsessed with learning, so reading my travel subscriptions online, in print and taking webinars is also a large part of my daily tropical experience. I try to limit it all to a couple of hours because I could do that all day. It’s like a good long walk on the beach.

But I do love cruises too, so, moving on…mid-day is about my clients. The ones I send to an oasis while I set in my Oasis. I check in with them, phone them, email, send invites, answer questions about their cruise and talk with them about their families. I don’t know any other way to let them know how important their trip is to me except to treat their vacation like I would my own and that is to nail down all the details. I want them to smell their vacation, I want them stick their toes in the sand before they ever get there.

The latter part of my day is making contact with new clients, implementing pieces of my marketing plan, integrating ideas I’ve come across throughout the day and trying to think of the next big creative thing to wow my clients and soon to be clients. That island music really gets the juices going!

Somewhere in all this, I’m always planning my next getaway – I have an addiction to fill you know and I can only do it vicariously through other people to a point! Of course even these getaways are filled with ship inspections, meeting the crew, begging for an exclusive peak and looking for what my clients would love to experience next. Not because I have to, just because it’s there – why not!

At the end of the ‘work day’ I try to learn from any failures and pat myself on the back for any client praises. Oh and sometimes I have after-hour networking events. May the connections remain as countless as the sands. Please pass me that margarita now, it’s 5 0’clock here.

What Do I Pack to Wear?

2011-09-06T18:40:00.004-05:00

If you ever asked that question because you were concerned about looking like a tourist, not fitting in, then read on. Most of the time you find list and few visuals for not looking like a tourist. Here is my recommendation for looking appropriate: search out the local webcams. Just 'Google' webcams and the location you want to visit. Bookmark and visit them at different days and different times and observe the locals. Worse case scenario you will just find a bunch of tourist on the webcams which means you will fit in just fine.

Las Vegas - Downtown, Budget or Luxury

2011-05-26T13:44:00.001-05:00

We usually stay on the strip but we wanted to experience the character of downtown. We stayed at the Golden Nugget and also at El Cortez as it had received several awards in the last few years. Even in downtown you can go the budget or luxury route.

Luxury
The Golden Nuggest was not overly posh but did not lack in luxury amenities. We rented a cabana one day and were not disappointed. We stayed in the Rush Tower and the room came with robes, safe, flat screens and more. Whether you are 80 or 8, you should not skip going down the water tube through the shark tank and enjoy the pool where you can see a full view of the tank and a lot of exotic fish. There are a lot of suprises at the Golden Nugget and you should take the time to explore. Rent a taxi from downtown to the strip for about $30 with tip but don't skip checking out some of the shows in downtown like the Brat Pack and the comedy shows.

Budget
The El Cortez was priced very reasonably. It was a nice clean hotel and very friendly staff. It isn't a bad two block walk to fremont street but can save you over the other hotels directly on Fremont Street. You should try out the little lunch bar in the back of the Golden Gate Casino where you can get the $1.99 shrimp (and they don't skimp) as well as sandwiches and sides for under $10. If you want a strong drink for a good price go for the La Bayou and get a frozen daiquiri at the back of the small casino and I recommend not adding extra alcohol! Take the Deuce bus to the strip for $5 a person and it runs about every 30 minutes.

Want any greater detail on downtown Las Vegas or the strip, contact us. We have verterans on our team!

Questions for a Travel Agent - Group Cruising

2011-01-22T10:33:00.000-06:00

There are amenities your travel agent can retain for you when traveling in groups. In most cases a group consists of at least 8 cabin bookings with 15 full fare guests but some luxury lines can be as low as a group of 5 cabins. So, always ask your travel agent what defines a group on the particular cruise you are interested in taking.

What are amenities? They are 'points' the cruise lines assign to ships/sailings based on supply and demand. Less demand will yield higher amenity points because the cruise lines are trying to fill the ships. Amenity points can only be awarded to groups and can be exchanged for free items like a bottle of wine or chocolate covered strawberries in your cabin, onboard ship credit or even cocktail parties for groups.

How do you get extra amenities? Sometimes your travel agent can secure extra items or services at no cost. You will not usually get these items if your group is sailing during peak periods or on ships in high demand. If you want to secure additional amenities for your group you will need to have a flexible sailing period so your travel agent can let you know when you can get the most amenities.

What else does group bookings get you?

A lower deposit. Sometimes for as low as $25 a person your group can book their cruise.
Your agent also ensures your group has cabins and dining times together.
Usually when you meet the minimum group requirement as defined above, you earn a free berth. A free berth means you get the cabin cost free but you will still have to pay the government fees and port charges on that berth. This amenity is generally always available.
Best of all the travel agent can handle the coordination of your group cruise so you don't have to do all the planning and work by yourself!

So, if you think you have a group, contact your travel agent! You will be rewarded with less work and extra perks for your group.

Questions for a Travel Agent - Cruise Planning

2011-01-10T14:51:00.000-06:00

Second in my series of blogs on Questions for a Travel Agent is what to know before you go on a cruise. (Read Blog One on Balconies here) There are so many things to plan for, including additional costs that may be involved outside of the cruise cabin payment. Here is a list of things to consider:

Embarkation and Disembarkation
Travel Documents
Air and Sea Packages
Parking at the Pier
Pre and Post Hotel Stay
Porters
Tipping
Dining Requests
Onboard Account
What to Wear
Children's Programs
Things to Bring
Contacting Someone from the Ship
Luggage
Excursions

If you are planning a cruise and don't have information on one or more of these areas, contact us for the "Know Before You Go" brochure which answers these questions and more.

Questions for a Travel Agent - Balconies

2010-12-28T14:35:00.000-06:00

I thought I would spend time on my next several blogs for the new year, to answer questions I get asked frequently as a travel agent.

The first question that comes to mind is...should I get a balcony cabin?

Let me throw two facts out there

Out of all the cruises I have been on or booked or anyone I have ever talked to who cruises, less than 1% would ever go back to an inside or oceanview after having a balcony cabin.
The number one reason I get from people who always book an inside cabin is: "We don't spend any time in the cabin so it isn't worth the additional investment."

Why are there two such contradictory statements on getting a balcony? Well, there will always be the group that money is the most important aspect and they will always book the least inexpensive options. That is their preference. But, for anyone who is looking for value as well as a good investment should consider booking a balcony cabin. Here is a list of very good reasons:

You can order free room service and have a meal on your balcony watching the sunset or sunrise. (or anytime inbetween)
The balcony can expand your space by about 100 square feet or more in most cabins.
You can watch the morning arrival to your newest port destination in your pajamas, on deck.
Enjoy a private area in the sun or enjoy a quiet reading area.
Look over the side of the ship and see or listen to the ocean waves lapping, watch fish swimming or dolphins diving - very relaxing balcony nap ensues.
Great place to wave at all the poor dudes that aren't cruising with you.
You don't have to turn on any lights, just open the curtains and brighten your day - and open the doors for fresh ocean air.
As long as the ship isn't in motion, it makes a nice place to dry your bathing suits. (Don't do it while the ship is moving as they will blow away!)
If you are a smoker or like cigars, you don't have to find a designated smoking area on the cruise ship. (which can be very limited sometimes). You can smoke right on your balcony.
Wonderful place to have private celebrations with horderves and champagne.

I'm sure there are other 'creative' ideas and uses for the balcony. Anyone who has an idea, email me. (Unless it's about serious romance on the balcony - I left that one out on purpose :)

Applying for a passport or passcard

2010-08-17T14:47:00.000-05:00

You have the option now of applying for either a passport or a passport card but they do not necessarily cover the same things. One major difference is, you can't use the passport card for international air travel. Another difference, the passport card can be a lot cheaper. Check here for the difference between a passport and a passport card.

If you have applied for a passport before, you can apply online.

If you haven't applied for a passport before, then you can download this form and must apply in person.

To find out what facility to go to, search here.

You will need to present one of the following proofs of citizenship below:
Previously issued, undamaged U.S. Passport
Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state*
Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship

*This MUST be a birth certificate from the state with an embossed, impressed or multicolored seal with the state registrar's signature. Copies of birth certificates will not be accepted.

This is not a legal, authoritative summary and is only intended to provide assistance in the direction of online government passport resources.

Is travel insurance worth it?

2010-04-27T01:05:00.000-05:00

Considering most people can save for a year or more for a vacation, it makes complete sense you should ask this question. But, here are the real questions you should be asking yourself to determine if you need it.

1. Is this a special occasion? Remember, it's about getting away from all the problems and issues and enjoying yourself. Don't let an unexpected event bring more to you on your vacation when you have a special event to focus on.

2. Are you traveling overseas? Most travelers are not aware that their insurance will probably not cover overseas travel, certain rentals, etc. So, check with your insurance before you think it does.

3. Are you traveling with a group? Traveling with multiple people only creates more opportunity for something to go wrong. Read on...if you have some of these types of people mentioned below in your group, insurance might be worth considering.

4. Are you traveling with senior citizens? Senior citizens these days can be extremely fit and healthy. It doesn't mean we are not susceptible to injury, illness or other normal things that plague us as that age.

5. Does someone have health issues? Did you know that travel insurance can cover a air-lift off a cruise ship or from a foreign port to an english speaking hospital? If someone has a heart attack, breaks a bone, there is only so much the local doctors may be able to handle. Being air-lifted can cost at least $50,000 or more. So don't think your insurance just covers the cost of the trip. It also covers medical.

6. Are you concerned about the baggage you will take? Some people pack important items, electronics, etc. And that doesn't include the luggage itself. Travel insurance will cover your lost luggage as well as delayed luggage.

7. Is there a potential for bad weather? Lost luggage, transportation, hotels and other side issues may not be covered even if the travel company you are using reimburses you for the trip itself due to a cancellation. Travel insurance can fill in those gaps.

If these issues don't relate to your travel and you are mostly doing a short, local trip, then travel insurance may not be for you. If one of those questions matches your vacation plans, then you should consider insurance.

When you plan your vacation, ask for a copy of the travel insurance so you can see what it covers. (Check here for an example of what insurance can cover) And don't forget to carry the travel insurance phone number with you when you leave for your vacation!

Travel far but carry a little stick.

2010-04-12T16:02:00.003-05:00

I recommend to all travelers to make their life easier when traveling. One thing you should always carry with you is your passport. The second thing I suggest is getting all your travel documents on a memory stick.

If you carry this little stick with you wherever you travel, you will feel secure in having whatever you need at your fingertips. Memory sticks are small enough to carry with you or secure in your room safe while out and about.

Here is a list of copies you should keep on your memory stick for each passenger:

Passport photo page
Drivers license or other state issued photo ID
Any booking confirmation emails
Photo of your credit card(s)
List of contact numbers.

travel agent
local emergency numbers
immediate family member numbers (in case you lose your cell phone and don't have them memorized!)
travel insurance
cell phone company
bank - credit card division
physician for prescriptions

Scan any of the physical items into your computer, save them to your password protected memory stick and delete files from your computer or make sure they are secure. Create a list of contact numbers for anything you have in your wallet or any important items you will carry with you during travel. Now if you lose your credit cards, wallet, phone, etc., you still have all the numbers necessary to make sure you still enjoy your vacation.

Are hidden travel fees out of control?

2010-03-21T15:47:00.000-05:00

My husband and I booked travel through a large online travel company for a two week vacation. It was only after a couple of days into our trip that we found out the resort was charging $15 a day for spa and exercise room use.

When we tried to address it with the hotel, there seemed to be, all of the sudden, a language barrier.

We were saved only by the fact that the large online travel company happened to have a representative in the area who called to check on our service. They managed to have the fees removed from our stay. Have you encountered hidden fees like this. They are not disclosed on your booking yet someone feels it is appropriate to append it to your bill.

At least ours was only $15 per day and it was resolved. Check out some of the other hidden fee stories. About the only way to fight these hidden fees currently is to have someone in your corner with the power to eliminate them. Make sure you book with a reputable travel agency who will stand behind your bookings!

Let a virtual vacation enhance a real vacation

2010-03-17T10:07:00.001-05:00

Somewhere online I read we spend 4-6 weeks researching a vacation. That's probably about right since we currently book vacations an average of 3 months in advance.

Whether you take your virtual vacation before or after you book it, having some tips on where to go can be helpful. Here's some 'ports of call' you can visit on your next virtual vacation:

Step one: You have already completed step one, I'm sure. This is where you determine the reason for your travel. Is it just to get away, is it for a life-time celebration like an anniversary or wedding? Is it a family get-together or a business retreat?

Step two: Determining where you are going to stay. OK, you decided why you are going, now what amenities do you need. Is it for two or for a group? This is a good time to consult a travel agent. In large, travel agency services are free so it is a no-brainer to find someone who can not only make recommendations across competing travel sites but can also be there every step of the way to reduce stress in planning important occasions. Like company cruises or honeymoons.

Step three: Now you know where you are going to stay (whether on a cruise ship, all-inclusive, etc.), now what are you going to do and see? If you are on a cruise ship, there are ports of call. If you are staying at an all-inclusive, there are local excursions. Either use your travel agent or check out the online web links for place you are staying and there will be a list of activities. Also check the local chamber of commerces or go to Google and type in, "things to do in ________ (name of location)". Your travel agent may already have the web links and resources compiled for your travel destination so check there first.

IMPORTANT: If possible, you should book your tours and excursions before your vacation. They can fill up quickly and you will miss out on that once-in-a-lifetime thing you wanted to do. Most often if you decide at the last minute you don't want to do that tour or excursion, you my be able to get a refund, or transfer your payment to another excursion. Better to book early when possible.

TIP: Ask about best price guarantees or satisfaction guarantees. These can be important if you need to make changes pre- post or during your trip. Example Guarantee.

Let me know what tips you use to plan your virtual vacation before you take your real one!

Trigger a delayed vacation response with gadgets

2010-03-01T14:46:00.000-06:00

Studies abound that show utilizing all five senses can improve your memory. What better thing would you like to remember than your vacation getaway! Here are some gadgets that will help you remember your vacation for a long time to come.

Engage your hearing by taking along an ipod loaded with music specific to your current vacation. Play it every day at a specific time when you are most relaxed. It may be when you get up in the morning or are relaxing in a hammock in the afternoon. Play the music at home and let it trigger your feelings for that time.

Locate a local scent that you really enjoy - smells of the ocean, the local fauna blooming by your window and then find candles, sachets, oils, etc., that you can take back home with you.
Enjoy a local drink or food and ask for the recipe, record it on your iphone so you can replicate it at home. Try easy recipes like a cocktail, an appetizer or a snack. (Don't want to work yourself up over a complicated recipe!)

Purchase a souvenier that is both beautiful to look at and interesting to touch. Place it somewhere in your office or home so you pass it frequently and can enjoy the sensations of the crafts from your vacation.

Calling all scientists - travel needs help!

2010-02-10T15:23:00.000-06:00

Do we have any travel amenities left?

Wow! Pillows and blankets for travel could now be $8 bucks on some flights. Pretty soon the beverages will be charged for and then we will be trapped between the moon and New York City paying $5 for a small drink because we can't bring anything into the airport.

The more we have to pay for, the less we can bring on board - or the less we get.

Here are some items we really need invented for the poor everyday travel consumer:

Powdered Water - just add air.
Thermo Patch - just add pull. We should be able to stretch a small piece of material into a big enough blanket with a tight enough weave to prevent hypothermia.
Memory Foam Pod - just add hot air. It should expand into a small pillow just by breathing on it.

Email me! Tell me what else we need from our scientists for travel.

Hotels should take a tip from grocery stores.

2010-02-01T11:55:00.000-06:00

Internet access is a business travel staple.

Times are tough and hotels are trying to make their money and stay open just like any good business. But maybe they should take a second look at where and how they make their money.

Let's look at grocery store practices. They are great at marketing to the consumer on a consumer level. Grocery stores will lure you in by giving you the greatest discounts on the 'staples' - those things you just can't live without. For grocery stores, that would be milk, butter, bread, etc.

What type of hotel are you and what are the staples for your clientle? If you cater to business travelers then it's probably Internet access. Your clientle's staples should really be a part of the package - especially when they are inexpensive for you to provide and your clientle know it!

Good to know that some travel related venues are taking note of their clientle's staple needs. USA Today reports the need on the elimination of Internet changes. The San Francisco airport is now plugging in to free Internet acess. I hope it's spreading.

How to use the Internet to get around baggage fees.

2010-01-17T12:19:00.000-06:00

New baggage fees but no new customer service.

Come on. I'm not the only person to get irritated about unnecessary fees. The ones that are just supplementing the business costs and provide no real service to the consumer.

Baggage fees fall clearly under that definition. I know there are penny pinchers, starving students or others out there like me who just want to save a buck or buck the establishment.

Here's a few tips on using the Internet to get out of baggage fees that can range from $25 to $100 or more!

1. Look up the local Goodwill or Salvation Army where you are traveling to and just buy up what you need when you get there. (If you really find stuff you like, you can always ship it home for like $20 bucks. Cheaper than baggage fees!)

2. Use Southwest Airlines where they are tender and loving and respectful of bags that travel.  So much so that bags fly free.

3. Look up local garage sales on Craigslist. (Same process as number 1 above but a little more time consuming and when you are done, you can always drop them off at the local Goodwill.) Select your city. Under 'For Sale' click on garage sale.

4. Find a resale shop. Not as cheap as Number 1 and 3 and maybe as much as baggage fees but at least you have something to show for your purchase.  Under 'What' type in 'resale' and under 'where', put in your city and state.

5. Ship your stuff. If you don't have much, ship a box fed-ex. At least your items will be insured and if they are banged around or damaged you can be refunded - unlike airline baggage.   Select the location you are sending from. Under the tab 'Ship', find locations near you.

Hey, if all else fails, layer all your clothing and carry on a folded up duffle bag. You can always pull them all off later and tuck them back in your bag. You might be asked to 'strip down' at security though so it may take a while to save.

Happy hunting and saving!