The Rise of New American Cuisine

This year, New American cuisine takes home the gold for having the most restaurants listed on the Bon Appétit hot list. American cuisine has taken a hit over the last few decades due to a fast food culture that has so tainted the world’s perception of our culinary capabilities. It is refreshing to see a new group of celebrated chefs attempt to repair the atrocious reputation American cuisine has earned over the years. As a result of these chefs’ fine efforts, over half of the entries on this year’s “Hot 10” are restaurants throughout the United States that specialize in New American cuisine.

State Bird Provisions, a rising new star on San Francisco’s already iconic culinary scene, was chosen for Bon Appétit Magazine’s “Hot 10” top spot. Located in the city’s up-and-coming Western Addition district, the restaurant offers an array of tantalizing tapas for your enjoyment. From traditional Southern-inspired cuisine, such as Fried Green Tomatoes with Tomato-Vinegar Sauce, to the Asian-fusion delights of Glazed Pork Ribs with Shichimi Togarashi, State Bird Provisions is a near-perfect example of New American cuisine at its finest.
About 3,000 miles east of San Francisco is the city of Brooklyn, which, like the Western Addition district in San Francisco, has experienced its fair share of gentrification over the last decade. The city’s rise in prestige has welcomed a new class of artisans and chefs to begin showing off their unique skills and talents. Restaurants Blanca and Battersby are both featured on the Bon Appétit “Hot 10” list, both are Brooklyn-based, and both are proud of it. Like State Bird Provisions, Blanca offers up an adventurous selection of tapas that runs the gamut of self-taught chef Carlo Mirarchi’s repertoire of diverse New American cuisine. Battersby, on the other hand, sticks to a more traditional menu of delicious New American/Italian entrées, such as clam linguine and the ever-popular pork belly parmigiana – both of which are to die for.

Should your travels bring you to the Southern United States, three restaurants in the region made Bon Appétit Magazine’s “Hot 10” list: Cakes & Ale of Decatur, GA, The Catbird Seat of Nashville, TN and Oxheart of Houston, TX. Each of these dining establishments tackle New American cuisine in very different ways.

Cakes & Ale, which is both a restaurant and a bakery, offers several unique interpretations of traditional American fare. However, as the restaurant’s name alludes to, the bakery is where you’ll ultimately want to end up.

Nashville’s The Catbird Seat offers soul food done New American-style, so you know that a meal is not only going to comfort your heart and your taste buds, but also offer you a world-class culinary experience like no other.

For the more adventurous, Oxheart in Houston presents a fascinating new take on New American cuisine in a way that represents and celebrates the diversity of this up-and-coming Texas city. Amazingly, vegetables are the key to Oxheart’s success, and the restaurant’s several deliciously inventive variations of seasonal vegetable dishes finally make the old “Finish your vegetables!” gripe irrelevant.

All in all, any gastro-tour of the United States is not complete without a meal at any one of these outstanding establishments. As of late, New American cuisine has made an unprecedented surge in popularity among critics and diners alike, and with six spots on Bon Appétit Magazine’s “Hot 10” list, these restaurants are surely a testament to the greatness of this uniquely American cuisine.

The Best of the Rest

While this year’s Bon Appétit “Hot 10” showcases the triumph of New American cuisine in 2012, several, more traditional (and not so traditional) restaurants also ended up making the cut. Spanish cuisine has also made a resurgence in popularity over the last decade, and Los Angeles’ Bäco Mercat has your cravings for heavenly Spanish-inspired delicacies covered. Like many of the restaurants discussed thus far, Bäco Mercat offers a wide range of dishes that highlight vegetables – a trend that seems to be inspiring contemporary diners and gastro-tourists to get reacquainted with some of the world’s healthiest foods.

Should your travels find you taking a tour of the American seat of government in Washington D.C., be sure to take some time to savor the scintillating, Thai-inspired cuisine of Little Serow. Husband and wife team Johnny Monis and Anne Marler know a thing or two about cooking up some of the most flavorful Thai delicacies around – proving to the world that, aside from the successes of New American cuisines as of late, Thai continues to be the “it” cuisine among diners and chefs throughout the nation.

Back on the Pacific Coast in beautiful Portland, Oregon, homestyle Italian cuisine reigns supreme at the city’s famed Luce restaurant. The key to showcasing fine Italian food is in the rustic, down-home preparation and presentation of the Old Country, and Luce not only does this to perfection, but succeeds at transporting you to the restaurants of Italy itself. Indeed, not many restaurants in the United States can hold a candle to the Italian cuisine one finds across the Atlantic, but Luce certainly can.

Finally, we come to Minneapolis’ intriguing take on Scandinavian cuisine at The Bachelor Farmer & Marvel Bar. From new and delicious takes on standard Scandinavian dishes at the restaurant, such as meatballs with lingonberries and mashed potatoes, to ice-cold and refreshing Nordic-inspired artisanal cocktails from the bar, The Bachelor Farmer & Marvel Bar offers a deft combination food and drink that will keep you around well into the evening.

It’s no secret that New American cuisine is making waves on the 21st century gastronomical scene – both within the United States and abroad. However, as Bon Appétit magazine’s “Hot 10” proves once more, the sheer variety of traditional and fusion-based cuisine in the United States alone is enough to give even the most discerning gastro-tourists a run for their money. Moreover, Bon Appétit magazine’s reputation as one of the country’s leading culinary periodicals does much to ensure that these annual “Hot 10” selections are sure-fire winners on anyone’s gastro-travel itinerary. While dining at many of the above restaurants might do some damage to the wallet, the consensus is that many, if not all of the delicious selections on their menus end up being worth every penny. So before you set off on your own  gastro-tour of the U.S., take a gander at these restaurants’ menus, and maybe save a few extra bucks before setting out; you won’t regret it!

Now that the Olympic Games are underway, throngs of sports fans and world travelers are flocking to London to witness history. The United Kingdom’s Department for Transport estimates 500,000 visitors will descend on the city between July 17 and August 18, excluding the 70,000 athletes and officials, an increase of 260,000 from last year. An expected 14,000 were booked to arrive through a travel agent on the Thursday before the opening ceremony, according to the market research company Forward Data.

Nineteen percent of the expected arrivals are coming from the U.S., where at least one travel insurance company has experienced an influx of customers seeking protection. Allianz Global Assistance USA, a multinational travel insurance provider with a growing presence domestically, has reported a 36% increase in travel insurance sales to people heading from the U.S. to London between late July and early September.

The flurry of activity means the chances of those pesky inconveniences occurring are greater than usual. “Unexpected illness or injury, significant airline delays and lost or delayed baggage are some of the concerns that consumers have when traveling and they are using travel insurance as a strategy to mitigate those risks,” Robert Pearson, Director of Market Intelligence at Allianz, said in a press release.

Is Travel Insurance Necessary?

Heathrow Airport prepared for months to handle the hordes of people who will be continuously arriving and leaving over a period of several weeks. It designated three peak days in which activity during the Olympics was or is supposed to be the most challenging: July 16, when Olympic athletes arrived nearly en masse; July 26, when sponsor and media poured in the day before the opening ceremony; and August 13, the day after the closing ceremony, which is expected to be Heathrow’s busiest day on record.

More than 1,000 volunteers have been corralled to ensure operations run as smoothly as possible. The airport has incorporated recommendations from other airports in previous host cities, and has invited peer reviews of their plans. New procedures have been tested to prevent trial and error from occurring during the Games.

However, even the most efficient preparations won’t prevent mistakes from happening. With 138,000 people and more than 200,000 bags expected to depart, 45% and 35% more than a regular day respectively, mistakes are bound to happen due to human error. When the Australian sailing team arrived on July 16, they were disappointed to discover that their sails were missing. Baggage handlers mistook the sails for cargo cargo because of their size. Fortunately, they were quickly recovered.

Coverage for delayed, lost, or damaged luggage is included in a typical travel insurance vacation plan. If an item is lost, the owner is given enough money to replace it. If an essential item is delayed, the owner is given enough money to cover the cost until the luggage is returned. Unforeseen expenses can derail an already expensive, pre-planned trip.

A delayed or canceled flight can be even more costly. Inclement weather or general confusion can disrupt a tight schedule dependent on narrow arrival windows. Missed reservations and even worse, missed hotel check-ins, can remove thousands of dollars from the pockets of travelers. In London’s hotels high demand and high capacity has driven up the cost to stay. On July 16 Travelclick reported that London hotel prices averaged £ 189, or $293. Last minute reservations are more difficult to come by, and likely to be even more expensive.

Vacation plans encompass non-refundable bookings and reservations. Travelers who are forced to cancel trips because they fell ill, lost their job, experienced a death in the family, were summoned for jury duty, or the occurrence of a natural disaster can be covered depending on the criteria of their agreement with their travel insurer. The former reason, falling ill, is another component that travelers insure during their trip because most health insurance providers in the U.S. do not cover medical expenses abroad.

English food gets a bad rap, and most visitors during the London Games will likely be pleased with the variety of delicious food offerings, but a bout with food poisoning, for example, can be unavoidable. Seeing a doctor and paying for medication can put a major dent in a traveler’s wallet. Even worse, a serious ailment that requires a few days in the hospital can cost five figures.

The Bureau of Consular Affairs recommends for people traveling abroad to consider purchasing a medical travel insurance plan after they’ve confirmed that their current health insurance policy doesn’t apply when they’re outside the U.S. and doesn’t cover emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or an evacuation. Older travelers visiting the Olympics should note that Medicare offers no coverage abroad.

Navigating London

A travel insurance policy provides peace of mind to travelers worried about the logistics of their trips and their pocketbooks. However, ensuring things runs smoothly with minimal inconvenience is largely the responsibility of the traveler. London is swarming with confused people who are losing valuable and expensive time. Visitors who maximize their time are the ones who’ve done their homework and understand the lay of the land.

Many visitors may be tempted to avoid Heathrow given that it’s the primary hub for international flights. The London area is connected through five airports; London City, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton are the four others, each of which handles international arrivals. Whether or not they’re as well-run as Heathrow, though, remains to be seen. Visitors can also opt for smaller airports scattered throughout England and airports in other major cities throughout Europe, hopping on a train or bus to make up the rest of the distance.

Rail is a popular mode of transportation for visitors within London, which is known worldwide for its efficient public transportation system. Train companies have mobilized to create a network, both overground and underground, to shuttle people to and from their destinations as quickly as possible. Traveling by ground or water via bus or tube are options for shorter distances. Because of the rush, it’s essential for visitors to plan ahead. Created by Transport for London, Get Ahead of the Games is an interactive map providing visitors details on busy travel hubs.

Of course, visitors with tickets to sporting events likely have a Games Travelcard, which is valid during the day of the event for travel on “London Underground, London Overground, Docklands Light Railway, buses, trams and National Rail services – but not on Heathrow, Stansted or Gatwick Express trains, or for taxis/private hire vehicles,” according to the London 2012 site. For those sticking around London after the Games, purchasing a Visitor Oyster card allows visitors to pay as they go on public transportation.

Heightened security will assuredly slow things down, so visitors should be forewarned. The London 2012 website advises those who are attending events to bring as little as possible, as security checks are ubiquitous. At soccer events, for example, bringing a medium-sized soft-sided bag, which is permitted into most other events, is discouraged. The site provides a list of all the items prohibited from events. Excluded are liquids, aerosols, and gels in quantities greater than 100ml, glass bottles larger than 100ml, alcohol, and any item or article of clothing that can serve as a disruption.

Airline Policies

Every airline has its nuances, but generally the pet policies are the same. The airline specifies how much the pet may weigh, where the pet’s carrier will be stored, how old the pet must be, and so forth. Before you book a flight, you should contact the airline you wish to travel with to make sure that your pet can be accommodated. Not all airlines cater to larger pets and most will only accept cats and dogs. The airline is not liable for your pet’s health while traveling, so if you have any concerns that your pet will be exceptionally stressed out during the flight, you should discuss it with your vet.

Southwest Airlines accepts small, vaccinated pets over two months old to travel in the main cabin with their owners inside a small carrier with an additional fee of $75 for each leg of the trip. The owner must be an adult, with one pet per traveler. They will not permit Fido to travel without a chaperone. The carrier, which must be small enough to fit under the customer’s seat, counts as either the passenger’s carry-on or personal item. Southwest Airlines sells carriers, but you may also use your own as long as it fits the required dimensions depending on your seating assignment. Your pet must be able to shift around in the carrier comfortably, able to both sit and stand in their confinement. If your pet gets too feisty, Southwest Airlines reserves the right to turn them away. Southwest Airlines doesn’t offer their customers an option of traveling with larger pets in the cargo area, thus travelers with large dogs will have to purchase a ticket with another airline.

United Airlines has implemented a program in which pets can travel safely in the cargo area, called PetSafe. Small pets may continue to travel in the cabin with their owners with much of the same regulations as Southwest Airlines, but PetSafe is a nice alternative for pets that don’t fit in your lap. With the program, you can check on your pet’s status through online updates throughout the duration of the journey. Unlike Southwest, which provides no emergency considerations for your pet in case of illness, United shows concern for your pet and gives the worried pet owner peace of mind with their dedicated 24-hour live animal desk. They also transfer pets in climate-controlled vehicles when your pet needs to make a connecting flight at any hub where they will be sitting in warmer temperatures for extended periods of time. In terms of cost, PetSafe is more expensive than traveling with your pet in the cabin.  Rates vary based on the weight of the pet, weight of the carrier, and where you’re traveling. Domestic flights can range from $75 to $659 per leg of the flight.

American Airlines offers both cabin and checked pet travel for a flat fee on each. Checked pets cost $175 per kennel for all domestic locations, while pets within the cabin fly for $125 per kennel. The airline suggests that you give yourself extra time upon check-in to get your animal situated and you will be required to fill out a questionnaire regarding the pet with an airline agent upon your arrival. The questionnaire is a standard checklist to ensure that you have complied with the usual animal travel regulations, such as whether or not the pet can move about the crate with ease and whether you’ve provided the correct paperwork for its vaccination information. American Airlines has a somewhat lengthy list of breeds that they will not accept for traveling in the cargo, mainly consisting of “snub-nosed” dogs and cats. These are pets with short, stubby snouts such as pug dogs or Persian cats. These animals, referred to as brachycephalic breeds, often have breathing problems which could be compromised in the air.

Pets Abroad

If you’re moving to another country, traveling with your pet can be tricky. The U.S. State Department website has some vital information on traveling internationally with your pet. In order to determine the requirements of the specific country you’re traveling to, contact the country’s embassy. Many countries have quarantine requirements, in which your pet may enter a country but must stay kenneled in an arranged area for several days, weeks, or months to ensure they do not spread any diseases. Some countries simply will not allow you to import your pet. If you plan on traveling internationally with your pet, do not put your arrangements off until the last minute because the laundry list of papers you need to fill out, shots you must schedule, and airline planning can be expensive and complicated.

PetTravel.Com breaks down the quarantine restrictions for individual countries. Countries that require quarantining tend to be countries that do not yet have any incidences of rabies, countries with a high incidence of rabies, and third world countries. Some countries require your pet to be micro-chipped or receive a blood titre test. If you are traveling to the United Kingdom, which is a rabies-free country, from a country with high incidences of rabies, your pet may be denied entry completely or will be quarantined for the duration of six months.

In some cases, home quarantine can be accomplished. Pets that would otherwise spend several months at a quarantine facility upon arriving in another country may do better with home quarantine because it supplies them with familiar comforts. Their owners must simply administer a rabies vaccination and blood test before waiting out the stipulated period before the animal can travel safely abroad. Countries with unavoidable quarantine policies such as Australia tend to have very clean facilities for pets with designated visiting hours so their owners can see them on a regular basis. However, they can be difficult to book as they fill up quickly on a first-come-first-serve basis. If the idea of completing all of the shots, paperwork, quarantining, and booking of flights just to get your pet safely relocated is making your head spin, you can contact a pet relocation specialist, such as the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association. They can help you understand the requirements and assist in getting your dog abroad safely with minimal stress to you.

Service Animals

According to the 1996 Department of Transportation guidance document, service animals are “any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. If the animal meets this definition, it is considered a service animal regardless of whether it has been licensed or certified by a state or local government.” The Final Rule on Air Carriers Access Act was published in the Federal Register in May 2008 and runs over 300 pages in length as an addendum to the previously written “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel” regulations written by the Department of Transportation in 1990. When the laws were first written, service animals were primarily used as guide and hearing dogs. Now, service dogs are used for a myriad of disabilities, such as for hearing loud noises, seizure alerts, psychiatric services, and emotional support as well as the typical seeing-eye dog. Not all service animals require documentation and not all service animals demonstrate a specific activity that visibly assists their handlers, such as those who have service animals for emotional support. As a result, the rules for traveling with a service animal aboard an airplane are somewhat complicated.

Service dogs are able to accompany their handlers directly onto the aircraft and may sit on the floor in the legroom area free of charge. Bulkhead seating can usually be arranged so that the dog is not cramped. Otherwise, they can give the passenger an additional seat so the dog has room on the floor. The service animal must be permitted if it has proper identification, but identification can mean a variety of things, including cards or other documentation, presence of a harness or markings on a harness, tags, or the passenger’s verbal assurance. The only instance in which an airline may demand to see documentation is if the passenger’s service dog assists them with a psychiatric disability, in which case a doctor’s note must be supplied, or if they can’t give credible assurance. Credible assurance would be proven if the handler could demonstrate the dog’s training ability or could explain how the animal directly assists them. The airline representative is not allowed to ask the customer what their disability is.

Unfortunately, since the rules for service animals are so flexible, they are often abused by customers that do not need a service dog and simply wish for their pet to gain access to the plane without a carrier or fee. Airline representatives take note of a dog that doesn’t seem properly trained and may deny access to any dog that doesn’t behave as a service dog should. A service dog always stays at its owner’s feet and will not run freely, bark, growl, bite, urinate or defecate outside of designated areas, or disrupt the rest of the cabin during the flight. Likewise, the airline isn’t required to house service animals undergoing training. The airline may also rebook a flight for a disabled person if the service animal presents a problematic allergy to another customer.

Preparing Your Pet

Traveling can be stressful for pets. When you check your pet like luggage, pet carriers wind up in the cargo area, which means the ride could be somewhat tumultuous for your furry companion. The cargo area of the plane isn’t as smooth a ride as the cabin. It could be likened to the back of the bus, where every bump is felt. Stressed out cats have been known to lose fur in clumps, and both cats and dogs may vomit in the crate from the turbulence. In order to reduce some of the discomfort to your pet, you may think that you can give your pet a mild sedative to keep them calm. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association discourages use of sedatives aboard an aircraft because the pet’s natural ability to maintain equilibrium is effected. Respiratory and cardiovascular problems may ensue for a pet that travels at increased altitude while under sedation.

Try to make the trip easier on your pet by booking flights without any layovers or connections. Fly to and from destinations that do not suffer temperature extremes, as your pet will be exposed to the temperatures when being transported to the cargo area on the plane from the airport. Ensure that you pet is in good health to begin with and that traveling won’t make them unnecessarily stressed. While the USDA requires that your pet be given access to food and water within four hours of check-in, you don’t want your pet to travel on a full stomach. Some veterinarians will even suggest that your pet fast for a brief period while traveling, although airlines will need a note from your vet in order to comply. Prior to your flight, give your pet a chance to relieve themselves in the designated area at the airport to minimize the chance that they will have an accident in their crate.

Asia has become a popular destination for tourists, and buying travel insurance can be an important part of vacation planning. Travel insurance protects tourists in four main areas: medical and health issues, property theft or loss, trip interruption or cancellation and emergency medical evacuation.

Cancellation is the biggest concern for travelers, as hundreds or thousands of dollars can be lost if expenses were pre-paid. A travel insurance policy will reimburse pre-paid, non-refundable expenses if the trip must be cancelled before departure. Travelers will also be reimbursed for sickness, injury, or death of self, a family member or traveling companion; hurricane damage to the destination or flight cancellation; being laid off from or required to work; a terrorist incident in the destination city; bankruptcy of the travel broker or being called for jury duty. However, it is important to note that cancellations for medical reasons must be documented and recommended by a doctor.

Risks of International Travel

Traveling to Asia, whether through one country or several, can be a very rewarding experience rife with diverse cultures, ancient religions and exotic foods. As with any vacation destination, however, it is important to know the risks. Crimes such as bag snatching, pickpocketing or credit card fraud are common in Asia, but travelers run the additional risk of encountering more serious issues such as riots, coups, terrorism or natural disasters, as well as exposure to diseases not typically found in the U.S. In some countries, tourists are specifically targeted for criminal acts.

The US State Department often issues warnings to citizens looking to travel to Asia; recently they have been warnings of known or presumed terrorist activity.

Most potential travelers worry about cancellation, but illness or accidental injury while in the destination country is just as great a concern. Many travelers overlook travel medical insurance because they already have a U.S. health insurance policy. However, the U.S. Department of State notes that medical treatment and hospital care abroad can be very costly, and medical evacuation to the U.S. can reach over $50,000. U.S. medical insurance is usually not accepted in other countries, nor is Medicare or Medicaid.

The World Health Organization has stated that Asia is at risk for a number of diseases such as Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis A and B and chikungunya (CHIKV), an illness similar to dengue fever; tourists to Asian countries may find travel insurance particularly beneficial as a result.

Additional Resources
Taking a vacation abroad requires a great deal of planning and preparation. A number of resources exist for those considering travel insurance as a supplement to their vacation plans.

Travel Insurance 101 — A licensed travel insurance agency offering reviews and articles to help purchase travel insurance. The site also includes a blog covering current issues travelers might face.

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services — The website offers various travel insurance plans and coverage options, as well as a travel blog.

Insure My Trip — Insure My Trip features thousands of customer reviews, plans from 22 travel insurance providers and a blog.

Allianz Global Assistance — A leading travel insurance company offering several plan options, as well as travel news and alerts.

U.S. Department of State — This government site provides travel warnings, information on traveling abroad and medical insurance issues, and country specific information.

BeFrugal.com is a website that helps consumers make educated decisions about cost efficiency in their everyday lives. They offer a Fly Or Drive Calculator that allows you to compare the cost of driving to your destination with the cost of flying. While this may not be reasonable for a lot of travelers — businessmen don’t have time to trek across the country by car for their conferences — it can be a godsend for others looking to save some money from the pesky airline fees. The calculator isn’t 100% reliable, but it gives you an idea of the general comparison using gas prices based on the model car you drive, airfare and hotel prices within the area, and other charges associated with the trip at hand. When you add up all of the potential fees that come in tandem with your airline ticket, you may find that driving is more cost-efficient even with raised gas prices. If you’re unfamiliar with the slew of fees that come with modern air travel, read further. The findings might shock you.

Bag and Ticket-Change Fees

Gone are the days when you could have checked a bag or two for free. Most airlines charge a fee for even a single bag that has to be checked onto a plane, prompting travelers to pack lightly and maximize carry-on usage. AirfareWatchdog.com compiled a list of various airlines and their baggage fees on April 4, 2012. According to their site, American Airlines charges $25 for the first bag you check for a domestic flight, $35 for the second, and $150 for additional bags beyond two. Frontier charges $20 for the first and second bag, but $50 for an additional bag. Southwest is one of the few airlines that still allows their passengers to check two bags free of charge, charging between $50 and $110 for bags beyond that. The heavy incentive to carry on your luggage results in having to gate-check bags because there isn’t enough room on the plane for so many passengers and their belongings. Airport security lines are often painfully long because security officials have to rifle through so many bags that would have been checked if the act didn’t include additional fees.

Unfortunately, the luggage fees don’t end there. If you cram too much into your first checked bag because you don’t want to pay for an additional checked bag, you risk heading to the airport with an overweight or oversized bag. The fees you pay for overweight and oversized bags trump the fees paid for average weight luggage. There are many reasons for this — weight distribution on an airplane is important, of course, but airlines also don’t want their employees to give themselves a hernia while trying to lift a 90-pound bag onto a luggage carousel. United charges between $100 and $400 for an overweight bag, and $100 to $200 for oversized luggage. That fee is on top of the original fee you pay just to check the baggage in the first place.

If you need to change your ticket, expect to pay an exorbitant surcharge. Airlines bank big time off of customers that need to modify a flight. If you’re flying Delta and wish to change your flight, you’ll pay $150 for a domestic flight and upwards of $250 for an international flight. United also charges $150 for changing domestic flights. In fact, Southwest Airlines is one of the only domestic airlines that touts they will allow you to change your flight plans free of charge. According to the Transportation Department, the 19 major American airlines collected $1.1 billion in cancellation and change fees during the first half of 2010. That means that airlines are being strategic, gaining a hefty amount of revenue from their customers’ indecisive booking habits. Deborah Campbell, a woman who bought a ticket to a US Airways flight, was charged $111 for her original ticket and $150 in change fees. Thus, the cost of changing her ticket exceeded the price of the original faire. Airlines argue that steep ticket change fees are meant to cover the cost of a seat that might otherwise go empty if you change your flight.

Taking your Money for Nothing

Some of the fees accrued by airlines leave you with a slimmer wallet and nothing to show for it. There are fees that infuriate customers; fees charged for services that should be free in a perfect world. However, in order to keep up, airlines have to piece in as many hidden costs as they can muster in hopes that their customers will still support them. If you’re traveling to an airport that recently released plans to build a new international departure wing, for example, you may be taxed in order to fund the construction. When the airport requires maintenance, it pulls money from a variety of sources, including airport restaurants, car rental services around the airport, and the customers themselves. When Sacramento International Airport released plans to replace their 40-year-old terminal with a $1 billion, opulent new terminal, Southwest Airlines customers had to start paying an extra $6.05 along with their ticket prices to help with the cost, a price that is expected to go up to $19.67 within the next year. The terminal will feature a 56-foot-long aluminum red hare leaping into a suitcase, suspended from the ceiling of the hall. Some customers may balk at the idea of paying extra for what seems like an over-the-top piece of artwork, but it’s the price you pay for flying out of an airport undergoing construction.

You may also have to pay an additional fee for the plane’s fuel. One would think that something as basic as fuel would already be built into the price of a ticket, but apparently this isn’t the case. In fact, airlines use them to sort of trick customers into thinking they’re finding cheaper airfares by having a base ticket price separate from the cost of fuel. A USA Today writer plugged in a flight from San Francisco to Munich through Lufthansa and found that the trip was broken down into the base fare, fees and taxes, and the ever-elusive “fuel and security” surcharge. The base fare wound up being $1,560 with $580 of taxes and fees. As for the fuel surcharge? Lufthansa tacked on an extra $420. Conversely, that same flight through United amounted to $2,013 as a base fare with $127 of taxes and fees, without any category for a fuel surcharge. The flights cost the exact same, but Lufthansa hopes to attract customers with a lower base fare. Once you settle down to book the actual ticket, you realize the rates are just as high.

Regardless of whether you consider yourself internet literate, it is important that you know how to book and print a ticket online as opposed to over the phone. Airlines charge extra for customers who call an agent to book the ticket. They will then charge an additional fee if you request that they mail you a paper ticket. Delta charges $25 for booking your tickets over the phone with a representative. United airlines charges $50 for issuing paper tickets, $25 for tickets booked over the phone, and $30 for tickets booked at the airport kiosk. Not all airlines follow this philosophy, however. Frontier Airlines promises not to include any service charges for booking online, over the phone, or in person. They do charge $5 for a paper ticket, but it’s a far cry from United’s $50 paper ticket.

Amenity Fees

Airplanes are generally uncomfortable vessels for travel. Seating is a tight squeeze next to a stranger in a rigid chair, the cabin is often kept at temperatures that rival with a meat locker, and you have to invest in a pair of two-pronged headphones to watch any of the daytime television offered for your commute. However, comfort comes with a hefty price tag on most airlines. The best way to negate these fees is to bring your own amenities, because relying on the airline to supply them equates to shelling out some serious cash. For example, you might be that unlucky tall passenger that has to jackknife your knees against your chest to simply fit in the seating area. Many airlines have profited on the idea of selling their exit row seats for higher prices because it allows for about half a foot more legroom. Other airlines have installed new seating in specific parts of the plane with more dedicated leg space. Five inches of extra legroom may do the trick, but it will cost you — American Airlines charges between $8 and $108 per segment for the extra space depending on the flight and its duration, according to CNN Travel. Some flights also offer options like seating that reclines deeper (some even entirely flat), also for an increased price.

Many travelers can remember the days when airlines offered a bland, microwaved meal for lengthier domestic flights, free of charge. While the meal was in no way satisfying, passengers feasted readily on rubbery chicken and watered-down mashed potatoes. Now, Airlines are attempting to offer somewhat more appetizing food options in exchange for extra fees. Typically, these include snack boxes with artisan cheeses, nuts, and chocolate. Some flights offer things like yogurt parfaits. Forrester Research conducted a study in late 2009 showing that 19% of leisure travelers and 21% of business travelers bought food on a plane in the previous year, at the start of the food fee implementation. Delta airlines, which makes the most revenue from fees, charges between $2 and $8.50 for snacks and meals. Mixed drinks and cocktail offerings on planes generate even more revenue. American Airlines charges $7 for liquor and wine and $6 for beer.

In 2010, American Airlines began offering the “Boarding and Flexibility Package,” which allowed certain customers to board earlier with a fee. Depending on the market and flight, the “Boarding and Flexibility Package” costs members $9 to $19 for each segment of the trip and allows them to be among the first to board. Yet, even with the package, elite members and customers with disabilities still board before everyone else. Most other major airlines quickly introduced similar packages. United Airlines started a “Premier Line” service starting at $19, Southwest Airlines offers an “Early Bird Check-in” for $10, and Europe’s Ryanair, previously the go-to budget airline, charges around $5 for priority boarding. Some customers may find it odd that others are willing to pay a fee for better seating, yet still be confined to the economy section, but it looks as though people are willing to pay to get on the plane before anyone else. When those customers get on the plane an hour before it takes off, they might consider resting until the remainder of the aircraft boards, but the once-complimentary blankets and pillows now come with a price as well. American Airlines began charging $8 for a pillow and blanket on May 1, 2010 for domestic flights exceeding two hours. Customers on shorter flights are out of luck, with no blanket option at all.

Embracing the Fees

You might gripe over the extraneous fees, but they continue to work for airlines. Rather than boycott airlines for imposing hidden costs on their customers, an article by the New York Post has shown that passengers are more than willing to continue paying for small luxuries if it makes the traveling experience less cumbersome. In a recent survey conducted by AirfareWatchdog.com, airline customers admitted that they would gladly pay an extra fee to quicken the deplane process. Passengers are getting frustrated with missing their layovers, waiting out the tedious process of unloading customers row by row. One out of six passengers would rather tack on an extra fee in order to be among the first people off. Within the survey, 10% agreed that it was worth a $10 fee. Three percent would pay $20, while another 3% agreed that they would pay an undefined amount of money for the expedited unloading option. Even if only 10% of the passengers paid $10, airlines could accrue an extra $730 million.

Flying

With the rising gas prices, it isn’t hard to understand that flight costs have also gone up. So how are the airlines making up for this? They not only raised their ticket prices, but they also made changes to varying policies. These policy changes will be different depending on the company with which you chose to fly. A couple of things to check out before you even book your flight is if there are reservation or rescheduling fees. Make sure you read the fine print and know what the add ons are for. Another major place that you will notice changes is with your baggage. Many companies now have fees depending on how much your bag weighs or how many bags you check. Check with each airline company and make sure you know their policy before you begin packing or you will pay a hefty fine before you leave.

Airport Goodies

Who doesn’t love stopping in a gift store to buy something to read on their flight or stopping to get a cocktail while waiting on your flight? Well while you are in a haze because all you can think about is your upcoming trip, you are being ripped off. Pay attention to the food prices and any other goodie that you might find in the airport. Chances are that the prices have been inflated. Try to have all your reading material with you so that you are not tempted to eat before you head to the airport.

Car Rental

If you are traveling to a place where you will need to drive around, you are probably going to want to rent a car. Though it may save you money to rent a car versus taking a cab every day, you need to be wary about the extra charges. One of the biggest complaints from consumers is that they were forced to buy an additional insurance policy to cover the rental car. No matter what the agent tells you, this is not necessarily true. If you are an insured driver, make sure you know what your company covers and make sure you aren’t paying double for something on which you are already covered. Other car rental places may try to add additional costs for having an extra driver, miles you put on the car, the age of the driver, drop off locations, and even fuel.

Hotels

Chances are that when you are on vacation, you will be staying in a hotel. A hotel can be a place of great relaxation but also great costs. Ever wonder why the price of the room goes up when you get your bill? That is because places will only quote you the base price when you are booking. They fail to mention that there are taxes and surcharges that they will be adding on as well. Hungry or thirsty? Do not eat or drink what is provided for you in your room. It all comes at a pretty high price and you probably won’t notice till you get the bill. Check with the staff and ask them if any of your other conveniences will be extra as well. Sometimes hotels will charge for extra keys, parking spots, towels, and even energy.

1. Survival Guide

   The Survival Guide app by SusaSoftX is a must-have for any camper in the event of an emergency situation or even a minor problem. This free app covers the basic necessities and how they can be obtained in the wilderness, such as water, food, shelter, habitat, first aid, and wildlife safety. If you need to build a shelter and all you have is a sheet of canvas and some wood, the app can navigate you through the process. If you want to know how to purify water, it addresses the topic. It shows you how to build a fire, how to wrangle animals using traps and snares, and how to identify snakes if you’ve been bitten. The app also covers a wide variety of habitats and not just the typical wooded areas. It contains tips for desert survival and survival out at sea. The guide is so extensive you’ll never be without a reference for any survival scenario.

 

2. Woodall’s RV & Camping Copilot

   Before you set off on your camping trip, you must find a spot worth exploring. With the Woodall’s RV & Camping Copilot app, you can locate campground and RV parks all across the United States, categorized by rating and campground features. You can search by nearby grounds or input a specific city or state to show list or map results. Each area’s amenities and services are listed, showing whether the site has things like internet, swimming options, and whether it’s pet friendly. They are also rated so you can estimate from their scores how desirable a spot it is. Some of the sites come with photos and links to their websites for further reference, and every site comes with contact information.

 

3. Wild Edibles Full

   If you’re stuck in a quandary out in the woods and you have to live off the land in terms of sustenance, the Wild Edibles app can help you to distinguish which plants are safe for consumption. Based on the books and superior flora knowledge of Steve “Wildman” Brill, the app contains a cohesive botanical glossary with photo representation for each plant from various angles for easy identification. Each plant bares its own extensive description, detailing similar plants, poisonous plants that might be mistook for harmless plants, and the plant’s medicinal qualities if any. It also provides detailed instructions on how to correctly harvest the plant and prepare recipes from it. The app is $7.99, a bit on the higher side, but could save your life in a certain situation. There is also a free “lite” version with trimmed down information.

 

4. TrailBehind

   Once you’ve gotten to the campsite of your choice, utilize the TrailBehind app to look up hiking trails and other adventures to do while in the area. Not only does TrailBehind allow you to browse areas to explore, but users can add detailed reports of their findings, which you can read beforehand to deduce whether or not you want to follow in their footsteps. Hiking, biking, camping, and rock climbing adventures are listed by their distance or plotted on a map for easy, visual interpretation. Each spot has a brief description of the area to help you locate it as well as general notes on the area. You can then press “Map it!” to begin your journey. Should you discover a new trail, you can add it to the app for other users to take advantage of. The app is free and formulated for apple products.

 

5. Knot Guide

   The Knot Guide app by Winkpass Creations, Inc. is a straightforward app providing instructions on how to tie over a hundred different knots, including binding knots, climbing knots, decorative knots, fishing knots, Navy SEAL knots, and many more. The instructions are shown using clear, explanatory photographs. Simply swipe to each step as you complete parts of the knot for further instruction. You can browse the knots by category or by its exact name and you can save your favorite knots for quick reference later on. The “knot lingo” feature allows you to study knot-making basic vocabulary, and after you finish tying a particularly complex knot, you can brag about it using the “knot here” feature, which posts your accomplishments. You can even upload a picture of the final product for others to gawk at. The Knot Guide app costs $1.99 on iTunes and is an effective tool for any camper needing to secure things using rope.

 

6. AccuWeather for iPhone

   If you’re going to be outdoors with only a tent for shelter, you’re pretty much at the mercy of the weather gods. However, with the Accuweather app, you can at least be prepared for inclement weather and plan accordingly. Accuweather is known for being one of the most accurate weather apps. The Accuweather app syncs up with iCloud to give you the most personalized forecast based off of your settings and saved locations. You can view the forecast as a 15-day calendar or view the most current weather forecast from the built-in notification center. You can pin multiple locations on a map to see weather forecasts for each pinned spot, deducing which parts of your trail could be rained out. The app also send you alerts in case of severe or life-threatening weather conditions, such as large-scale thunder storms, tornadoes, and ice.

 

7. The BBQ & Campfire Recipe Book

   If you’re camping in a traditional sense, you’ll be fairly limited as to what you can eat outside of roasted weenies and s’mores. Unless, that is, you have the BBQ & Campfire Recipe Book app. The app contains a collection of recipes from Luke Cox’s book by the same name. Some of the recipes are simple campfire meals, while others are more complex dishes for the skilled chef working from a skillet over a hearth. Cooking while camping doesn’t have to be bland. The book details bastes, rubs, and glazes you can pair with meats to spice up an otherwise boring dish. It reads much like a kindle book, with arrows between the pages and an index to skip ahead to various chapters. The app is available for the iPhone and iPad for $4.99 on iTunes.

 

8. Bug Spray

   Out in the woods, mosquitos tend to swarm in thicker clouds, necessitating the use for smelly sprays like Deep Woods Off. However, with the Bug Spray app from Apptomic LLC, you can forgo the traditional bug spray and ward off pesky insects using your phone. The Bug Spray app emits a high-pitch frequency that effectively repels insects while remaining undetectable to most adult ears. There are three different pitches available just in case you find your ears are sensitive to one of them. You can activate a beeping feature which beeps every minute to indicate that the app is active, emitting the pitch. The app may be shrill to young ears, but it’s free, so you can always delete it if you find it to be less than agreeable.

]]> http://www.travelinsurance.org/8-must-have-apps-for-the-adventurous-camper/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinsurance.org/national-beauty/ http://www.travelinsurance.org/national-beauty/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 21:33:54 +0000 Staff Writer http://www.travelinsurance.org/?p=2207 When many people plan a vacation, they think of all the exotic places that they can go. Some dream about white sandy beaches, safaris, or even backpacking through lost cities. What about those who want to stay close to home? What about planning your next summer trip to see what America has to offer. America has some of the best National Parks, offering visitors a look into history and into the wonders of nature. Instead of stressing about getting everyone in your family a passport on time, why don’t you take a look at the beauty that surrounds you?

 

Death Valley

No, this is not a college football stadium. Death Valley is the largest national park south of Alaska. Millions of people travel to California and Nevada each year to witness the National Park and the extremities that it faces. According to National Geographic, Death Valley is North America’s both driest and hottest spots. It gets less than two inches of rain each year and can reach temperatures of 134 degrees. It also has the lowest elevation in North America, resting 282 feet below sea level. Tourists can expect to visit a land that has lots of fascinating geographical features. It focuses on areas where rocks have been eroded, mudstone hills and canyons, Shoshone Indians, sand dunes, and a 200-square-mile salt pan

 

Grand Canyon

Located in Arizona is one of America’s best views into geographical history. Originally protected by Theodore Roosevelt, the park is now under the supervision of the Grand Canyon National Park, the Hualapai Tribal Nation and the Havasupai Indians. Visitors will be able to witness the beauty that the Colorado River has been able to create. Over the years, the canyon has also been a secret pilgrimage site for many Indian tribes. You can walk around the top of the canyons, take tours with a mule throughout the canyon walls, and even experience what the river has to offer. All you have to do is choose your level of excitement

 

Yosemite

This National Park is located in the eastern part of California. Recognized as a World Heritage Site in 1894, the park boasts many geographic features for tourists to explore. Within the park, tourists can expect to find cliffs, waterfalls, wildlife, and lots of beautiful scenery. Tourists are able to take a trail ride through the park, bike or hike, and even take a guided tour that will teach you everything that you want to know about those who have traveled through the park before you.

 

Yellowstone

This National Park was recognized by President Grant in 1872. It is mainly located in Wyoming, but parts do reach into Montana and Idaho. Probably one of the main attractions of the park is Old Faithful, a geyser that shoots off every 91 minutes. It is one of the most predictable geysers around. Other park features let you camp out, and even drive though the park and discover nature at its best. While you are driving around, be careful of your surroundings; you never know when you are going to be side-by-side with a Bison or a mama bear and her cubs.

 

Everglades

Breaking away from the other types of parks on the list, the Everglades will take you south to Florida. The everglades are known for being a natural region of subtropical wetlands. In the Everglades you can expect your mode of transportation to mainly involve water. Tourists can fish, go on a boat tour, or even experience life on a swampy buggy. Be prepared for a firsthand look into an untouched natural habitat.

]]> http://www.travelinsurance.org/national-beauty/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinsurance.org/gold-medal-savings/ http://www.travelinsurance.org/gold-medal-savings/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 14:12:26 +0000 Staff Writer http://www.travelinsurance.org/?p=2195 This July, all eyes will be on London. The U.K. will be the lucky country that will get to host the 2012 Olympic Games. Athletes from all over the world will gather and try to win the gold medal for various events in honor of their country. In total, more than 200 nations will gather and compete in the 300 events that the Olympic Games hold. Who wouldn’t love to travel to London and be able to witness the events first hand? Even with money being tight, there are plenty of ways for you to find a way to get to London and enjoy the games in person.

 

1. Getting to London

   Obviously air travel has become very expensive, especially when traveling from the United States and Europe. Expect there to be an increase in rates around the time of the Olympics. They know that many people will be willing to spend a little extra money just for the chance to witness history. When looking for a flight, look for places that offer you cheap rates, or even try and use your credit card points and frequent flyer miles. Though they aren’t as useful as they once were, any little bit can help.

 

2. Staying in London

   Everyone wants to stay in a five star hotel with all the finer things. There are two problems with that: it’s probably not in your budget, and you can expect them to all be full. With the whole world watching the Olympics, plan for things to be a little sold out. Don’t worry, you still have options. One of the best options would be to find a hostel that isn’t full. You will be able to meet other tourists and save a little money. If you still cannot find one, don’t fret. You can stay in surrounding cities and then commute in for the festivities.

 

3. Getting around London

   Once you are in the city you will need a way to get around. Taking a taxi can get expensive very quickly if it is your only mode of transportation. Lucky for you London is packed with double decker buses that will take you all over the city. They are a more cost effective alternative. You can also be sure that they will be in full force to transport tourists and Olympic enthusiasts all over the cities. Other options that are available to you are the tram and the London Tube.

 

4. Watching the Games

   Consider yourself lucky if you have tickets to watch the games. The rest of the world will just have to watch in our own homes. The good news is, if you are heading to London you can be sure that there will be lots of activities to enjoy in honor of the games, and there will be lots of places that will be offering spectators a chance to watch the games. The whole city will be opening its arms to worldwide fans in support of the games.

So now that you are excited for the games, it is time to get your trip booked and head off to London. While you are there it is always important to remember that you are a guest in their country. Everyone wants their nation to take home the metals, but it is all in good fun. So make sure that you represent your country well and show the rest of the world pride for the nation that you come from. Plan on having lots to do, and for there to be a lot of new people with whom to meet and experience the 2012 Olympic Games.

]]> http://www.travelinsurance.org/gold-medal-savings/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinsurance.org/10-best-travel-apps-for-summer-2012/ http://www.travelinsurance.org/10-best-travel-apps-for-summer-2012/#comments Thu, 14 Jun 2012 21:03:19 +0000 Staff Writer http://www.travelinsurance.org/?p=2187 Many of us have yet to finalize summer travel plans and book our trips. For every globetrotter, travel enthusiast, and jet-setter, traveling can be less of a hassle using these following applications for the iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. From automated itineraries to attraction recommendations to instant dinner reservations, these apps are smart and easily accessible tools that make for the perfect traveling companion. On your trip this summer, consider these following best-rated travel apps:

 

1. Photosynth

   Whether you wanted to capture a beautiful panoramic shot of a Hawaiian sunset or flying down the slopes of Vail, this app called Photosynth stitches your photos together to create easy 360-degree views, for free. You can share your panoramic pictures (horizontal and vertical) of places, people, and events with one button. All “iphoneography” enthusiasts should optimize their iPhone camera using this app on their next trip.

 

2. HotelTonight

   Last minute travelers, ease your worries of getting stranded without a hotel room with this app, HotelTonight. For serious savings, this app pulls up same-day hotel bookings near you, which you can book beginning at noon that day. This app is especially useful for last-minute trips and sudden flight delays.

 

3. TripIt

   Tired of carrying around all multiple confirmation documents, confirmation papers, and printouts? TripIt allows you to stay organized on all your traveling information, emails, and important documents without the bulk and scattered aspect. It forwards all your confirmation emails onto one organized account and even creates one neat itinerary for you. All your travel details are in one place.

 

4. Weatherbug

   When it comes to traveling, being prepared for different climates and weather conditions is important. An accurate, updated, and detailed weather forecasting app like Weatherbug would come in handy — it offers official data gathered by meteorology organizations. The app also provides a detailed forecast for the week ahead, has fewer flashing banner ads, and presents information on an easy-to-read interface. You can choose hourly predictions from more than one destination at a time.

 

5. TripAdvisor

   According to ABC News, this app is the world’s second-most popular travel app, downloaded 25 times per minute. There’s a lot of people looking for hotel reviews and advice on the best tourist attractions. This app is a great planning tool, allowing you to read reviews from other travelers and offer your experiences as well. Make fast and educated decisions: cross reference hotel offerings from other search sites with real-person reviews before making a decision.

 

6. Google Translate

   Ease those language barriers when traveling abroad with Google Translate. The app allows you to translate pieces of text at the click of a conversion button. Although it’s not always perfectly accurate, it gets the job done. Use the voice recognition feature to automatically type out what you’d like to translate from English into the language of your choice.

 

7. Yelp

   One of the things you must indulge in while traveling is trying out local restaurants, shops, attractions, and whatever else the city has to offer. Consult Yelp for one-stop advice for just about everything; where you should dine, stay, or visit, or what you should do. Peruse through reviews of local places before risking your precious time (and money).

 

8. XE Currency

   Converting foreign currency can be a hassle. Plus, not all of us are particularly math inclined. For quick currency conversions, use XE Currency, which will convert any currency on the spot in a few taps.

 

9. EveryTrail

   This GPS app provides an easy-to-read map as you walk around in unfamiliar places. You’ll be equipped with street names, audio guides, a compass, trip duration, elevation, and even average speed. Track your excursions with ease and explore spots deemed worth seeing by other users.

 

10. GlobeTipping

    Tipping norms often get lost in translation when traveling abroad. It’s not common knowledge to know how much an average tip is for a waiter, valet parker, or hotel attendant in a foreign country. With Globetipping, advice is given for more than 200 countries on recommended tip rates. You can instantly calculate tips, factor in tips by percentage, and divide dining bills.

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