Although change can some times be hard, we here in the Minneapolis market have seen quite a bit of CHANGE in the past year!!! From Delta gobbling up Northwest, to Southwest FINALLY making an appearance here, to JetAmerica sliding in to corner the less-traveled markets!! Uf-dah, we've had a roller coaster of a year..... But like our Minnesota nice, we welcome the change, and hope for good things in the future!!
Competition is good, keep it coming!!!
Thank you to Yahoo News for this article.
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/New-lowcost-airline-targets-apf-15348934.html?.v=5
New low-cost airline targets smaller markets
Low-cost carrier JetAmerica aims to serve smaller markets it believes bigger airlines neglect
Victor Epstein, Associated Press Writer
NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- A new low-cost airline will begin serving mid-sized U.S. cities that it thinks larger carriers have left behind.
Clearwater, Fla.-based JetAmerica said 34 nonstop passenger flights a week will start July 13 at Toledo, Ohio; South Bend, Ind.; Melbourne, Fla.; Newark, N.J.; Minneapolis and Lansing, Mich. Twenty-eight flights start or end at Newark Liberty International Airport. The carrier will add six more flights -- from Toledo to Minneapolis -- starting Aug. 14.
JetAmerica is targeting small and midsize cities like Lansing, which has seen the number of daily flights at its Capital Region International Airport fall from 35 to 12 the past five years. The decline is part of a national trend that has seen airfares increase at those airports as daily flights have decreased.
Robert Selig, head of the Capital Region Airport Authority, said JetAmerica will give Lansing business travelers direct access to New York City and carry leisure travelers to central Florida.
"We don't have access to either one right now," Selig said. "So, this is going to fill a major void in our schedule."
Filling that void won't be cheap.
The Lansing, South Bend, Melbourne and Toledo airports are subsidizing JetAmerica with $1.4 million in grants in its first year, along with about $867,000 in waived airport fees and $1.1 million in marketing and advertising assistance.
South Bend, Toledo and Melbourne received their grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program, which has awarded $104 million to 223 recipients since 2002 in an effort to restore lost service and bring air fares down.
Newark and Minneapolis, each of which serve more than 20 million passengers a year, are not offering assistance to JetAmerica.
John Weikle, chief executive of JetAmerica, said the subsidies will help insulate the new carrier from spikes in jet fuel prices. Higher fuel prices have contributed to the failures of at least four major airlines since 9/11. Smaller carriers have also been hurt.
Surging fuel prices helped bankrupt ultra-discounter Skybus Inc. last year. Weikle founded that Columbus, Ohio-based airline known for its $10 fares. The bankruptcy cost 450 employees their jobs.
JetAmerica's pricing scheme will share some Skybus characteristics.
Prices will start at $9 a seat and top out at $199. The $9 price will apply to the first nine to 19 seats on each plane. Passengers will pay $15 to check a bag. Food, drinks and in-flight TV will also come at a cost.
The carrier is starting out with one leased Boeing 737-800, expects to add a second in the first month, and have as many as four by July of next year. Weikle's business plans calls for an additional 189-seat jet to be leased every four months.
Each Boeing 737-800 can fly to four cities a day, Weikle said.
Weikle estimated JetAmerica's revenue at more than $50 million in the first year and about $150 million in the second. He compares his business model to that of Wal-Mart Inc., which started out by serving cities of less than 50,000 people because competitors were not interested in them.
JetAmerica plans to serve Melbourne, Fla., with at least six flights a week. Richard Ennis, executive director of Melbourne International Airport, said JetAmerica's planes and nonstop routes persuaded him to support the carrier. Melbourne, a coastal community about 70 miles southeast of Orlando, recorded a 45 percent decline in passenger traffic at its airport from 2000 to 2008.
Ennis said carriers with larger jets like the Boeing 737-800 charge less per seat, which is an advantage enjoyed by Orlando International Airport and Orlando Sanford International Airport.
"It's the only way I can beat them out," Ennis said of the neighboring airports.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Free Things to do in Europe!!!
Thank you to Yahoo News for this fun little article.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20090511/ap_tr_ge/travel_brief_european_freebies;_ylt=AkSJr.JdHnpv_Tkf9LzKeCc8sM0F
10 free things to do in Europe this summer
If you're taking advantage of the relatively strong dollar this year by heading to Europe, you'll be looking for ways to save even more when you get there.
Here is a list of 10 free and fun things to do in Europe, compiled by the European Travel Commission:
_In Madrid, the Palace of Liria, the 18th century residence of the Duchess of Alba at Calle Princesa 20, offers a collection of Spanish art, along with Flemish, German, Dutch, Italian, English and French paintings, with guided tours Fridays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon.
_Rome's picturesque Trastevere area on the Tiber's west bank, a charming and colorful neighborhood, hosts a festival the European Travel Commission describes as "Fellini-esque" for eight days in the second half of July, the Festa di Noantri, with a religious procession, food and entertainment.
_In Leipzig, Germany, Porsche gives free factory tours where you can see cars like the Cayenne and the new Panamera assembled on antiseptically clean floors. The tour includes a museum with exhibits covering Porsche history. If you feel like upgrading your free tour, various packages for purchase include lunch and even driving experiences on a track. Details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10vuvnq75/*http://www.porsche-leipzig.de.
_In Paris, the Friday Night Fever — http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10stiam5r/*http://www.pari-roller.com — is a mass group tour by inline skaters of the city at night. Meeting point is Place Raoul Dautry in the 14th Arrondissement, between the Montparnasse office tower and the Paris-Montparnasse train station, at 10 p.m. The route varies every week but always covers roughly 19 miles and returns to the starting point at 1 a.m.
_Visit a sculpture park in Oslo with more than 200 works by Norway's most famous sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. The figures depict people in all stages of life and various emotions; details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10vq60aoe/*http://www.vigeland.museum.no.
_In Lisbon, the Gulbenkian Museum houses a magnificent collection of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian and European art. Exhibits include Japanese prints, Persian tapestries and European paintings from Rembrandt to Rubens to Renoir.
_Sandeman's New Europe tour company is offering walking tours of nine European cities — including Paris, Madrid, London and Berlin — free of charge except for optional tipping. The latest addition to the list is a three-hour tour of Prague. Details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10um1tvc9/*http://www.sandemans-new.com.
_Zurich is known as an expensive city, but a visit to the Church of Our Lady (Fraumunster) is free and the13th century building includes two modern art treasures: a large stained-glass window done by the artist Alberto Giacometti in the 1940s, along with five stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall in 1970.
_A monument to Frank Zappa, creator of the 1960s band the Mothers of Invention, can be found in Vilnius, Lithuania. Zappa is of Lithuanian descent, and the monument is located in an area known as Uzupis, known for its countercultural leanings, cafes, galleries and other artists' hangouts.
_In Amsterdam, at the Wooden Shoe Factory, you can watch typical Dutch wooden shoes being hand carved and painted while learning the lore behind them, which dates to the 14th century. Details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=112q1a58g/*http://www.woodenshoefactory.com.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20090511/ap_tr_ge/travel_brief_european_freebies;_ylt=AkSJr.JdHnpv_Tkf9LzKeCc8sM0F
10 free things to do in Europe this summer
If you're taking advantage of the relatively strong dollar this year by heading to Europe, you'll be looking for ways to save even more when you get there.
Here is a list of 10 free and fun things to do in Europe, compiled by the European Travel Commission:
_In Madrid, the Palace of Liria, the 18th century residence of the Duchess of Alba at Calle Princesa 20, offers a collection of Spanish art, along with Flemish, German, Dutch, Italian, English and French paintings, with guided tours Fridays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon.
_Rome's picturesque Trastevere area on the Tiber's west bank, a charming and colorful neighborhood, hosts a festival the European Travel Commission describes as "Fellini-esque" for eight days in the second half of July, the Festa di Noantri, with a religious procession, food and entertainment.
_In Leipzig, Germany, Porsche gives free factory tours where you can see cars like the Cayenne and the new Panamera assembled on antiseptically clean floors. The tour includes a museum with exhibits covering Porsche history. If you feel like upgrading your free tour, various packages for purchase include lunch and even driving experiences on a track. Details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10vuvnq75/*http://www.porsche-leipzig.de.
_In Paris, the Friday Night Fever — http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10stiam5r/*http://www.pari-roller.com — is a mass group tour by inline skaters of the city at night. Meeting point is Place Raoul Dautry in the 14th Arrondissement, between the Montparnasse office tower and the Paris-Montparnasse train station, at 10 p.m. The route varies every week but always covers roughly 19 miles and returns to the starting point at 1 a.m.
_Visit a sculpture park in Oslo with more than 200 works by Norway's most famous sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. The figures depict people in all stages of life and various emotions; details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10vq60aoe/*http://www.vigeland.museum.no.
_In Lisbon, the Gulbenkian Museum houses a magnificent collection of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian and European art. Exhibits include Japanese prints, Persian tapestries and European paintings from Rembrandt to Rubens to Renoir.
_Sandeman's New Europe tour company is offering walking tours of nine European cities — including Paris, Madrid, London and Berlin — free of charge except for optional tipping. The latest addition to the list is a three-hour tour of Prague. Details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=10um1tvc9/*http://www.sandemans-new.com.
_Zurich is known as an expensive city, but a visit to the Church of Our Lady (Fraumunster) is free and the13th century building includes two modern art treasures: a large stained-glass window done by the artist Alberto Giacometti in the 1940s, along with five stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall in 1970.
_A monument to Frank Zappa, creator of the 1960s band the Mothers of Invention, can be found in Vilnius, Lithuania. Zappa is of Lithuanian descent, and the monument is located in an area known as Uzupis, known for its countercultural leanings, cafes, galleries and other artists' hangouts.
_In Amsterdam, at the Wooden Shoe Factory, you can watch typical Dutch wooden shoes being hand carved and painted while learning the lore behind them, which dates to the 14th century. Details at http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap_travel/ap_tr_ge/storytext/travel_brief_european_freebies/31975015/SIG=112q1a58g/*http://www.woodenshoefactory.com.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Cruise with your favorite Disney Channel stars!! Disney Cruise Line
How much fun would that be to rub elbows with some of the Disney Channel's stars and rising stars?!?!? Contact us to book your Disney Cruise today!!!!!!
Or how about adding a Disney World package on to one of these great cruises!!!!
Disney Channel Summer at Sea Cruises!!
Here's your chance to see and meet sensational stars from big shows and original movies on Disney Channel! More stars are scheduled to appear, so check back soon to find out who!
3-Night Disney Channel Summer At Sea Cruise
Sail Dates and Appearance Schedule*
July 9 to 12, 2009—Tiffany Thornton (Sonny with a Chance) and Nicole Anderson (JONAS)
July 16 to 19, 2009—Jason Earles (Hannah Montana)
July 23 to 26, 2009—Jason Dolley (Hatching Pete)
July 30 to August 2, 2009—Debby Ryan (The Suite Life on Deck)
4-Night Disney Channel Summer At Sea Cruise
Sail Dates and Appearance Schedule*
July 12 to 16, 2009—Tiffany Thornton (Sonny with a Chance) and Nicole Anderson (JONAS)
July 19 to 23, 2009—Musical Act Mitchel Musso and Jason Earles (Hannah Montana)
July 26 to 30, 2009—Jason Dolley (Hatching Pete)
August 2 to 6, 2009—Alyson Stoner (Camp Rock)
*Schedule and talent subject to change without notice. Not all stars available for each sailing.
Call us to help you book one of these great cruises!!!
Or how about adding a Disney World package on to one of these great cruises!!!!
Disney Channel Summer at Sea Cruises!!
Here's your chance to see and meet sensational stars from big shows and original movies on Disney Channel! More stars are scheduled to appear, so check back soon to find out who!
3-Night Disney Channel Summer At Sea Cruise
Sail Dates and Appearance Schedule*
July 9 to 12, 2009—Tiffany Thornton (Sonny with a Chance) and Nicole Anderson (JONAS)
July 16 to 19, 2009—Jason Earles (Hannah Montana)
July 23 to 26, 2009—Jason Dolley (Hatching Pete)
July 30 to August 2, 2009—Debby Ryan (The Suite Life on Deck)
4-Night Disney Channel Summer At Sea Cruise
Sail Dates and Appearance Schedule*
July 12 to 16, 2009—Tiffany Thornton (Sonny with a Chance) and Nicole Anderson (JONAS)
July 19 to 23, 2009—Musical Act Mitchel Musso and Jason Earles (Hannah Montana)
July 26 to 30, 2009—Jason Dolley (Hatching Pete)
August 2 to 6, 2009—Alyson Stoner (Camp Rock)
*Schedule and talent subject to change without notice. Not all stars available for each sailing.
Call us to help you book one of these great cruises!!!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Swine Flu, just the facts
The Facts:
-- According to Mexico’s Health Minister, José Angel Córdova, of the 159 deaths reported during the flu outbreak in the country, only 16 were confirmed to be associated with the swine flu.
.......... Only 10% of the number originally stated by the media
.......... Population of Mexico City: 26.7 million people
.......... Relative percentage of people infected in Mexico City: 5 ten millionths of one percent
.......... The United States reports 38,000 deaths per year to the regular flu
-- According to Quintana Roo State Secretary of Tourism, no fatal cases of influenza have been reported in the main tourism destinations: Cancún, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Huatulco
-- The BBC has reported the influenza is in decline, according to Mexican Health Minister, Jose Cordova.
-- CNN reports, the health alert drop in Mexico City is a sign that Mexico City is successfully overcoming the influenza and the preventative actions taken are producing positive results, states Mexico City Mayor, Marcelo Ebrad.
-- The World Health Organization is NOT recommending travel restrictions. Scientific research indicates that restricting travel will be of limited or no benefit in stopping the spread of disease, according to the WHO.
-- CNN’s travel expert, Peter Greenberg states the H1N1 reporting has been blown out of proportion and has created an unnecessary ‘abundance of fear’. Watch the interview here.
Listen to what guests currently in Mexico are saying:
“If you watch the national media, you are misinformed.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsCL-WAdLSo
“If you're thinking about coming to Mexico, the rates are down, the airfare is cheap, so get down here before the rest of the country finds out.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sAw9ud5ZDs
-- According to Mexico’s Health Minister, José Angel Córdova, of the 159 deaths reported during the flu outbreak in the country, only 16 were confirmed to be associated with the swine flu.
.......... Only 10% of the number originally stated by the media
.......... Population of Mexico City: 26.7 million people
.......... Relative percentage of people infected in Mexico City: 5 ten millionths of one percent
.......... The United States reports 38,000 deaths per year to the regular flu
-- According to Quintana Roo State Secretary of Tourism, no fatal cases of influenza have been reported in the main tourism destinations: Cancún, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Huatulco
-- The BBC has reported the influenza is in decline, according to Mexican Health Minister, Jose Cordova.
-- CNN reports, the health alert drop in Mexico City is a sign that Mexico City is successfully overcoming the influenza and the preventative actions taken are producing positive results, states Mexico City Mayor, Marcelo Ebrad.
-- The World Health Organization is NOT recommending travel restrictions. Scientific research indicates that restricting travel will be of limited or no benefit in stopping the spread of disease, according to the WHO.
-- CNN’s travel expert, Peter Greenberg states the H1N1 reporting has been blown out of proportion and has created an unnecessary ‘abundance of fear’. Watch the interview here.
Listen to what guests currently in Mexico are saying:
“If you watch the national media, you are misinformed.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsCL-WAdLSo
“If you're thinking about coming to Mexico, the rates are down, the airfare is cheap, so get down here before the rest of the country finds out.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sAw9ud5ZDs
Continental, Northwest, Delta Merger (mileage)
I was just reading this timeline……….wasn’t sure if you all were aware
I thought that October 2009 was an interesting one……CO will no longer be a partner with NW and DL, so you won’t get miles from CO on your World Perks……..
Here is the web link: http://www.delta.com/skymiles/about_skymiles/sm_wp_integration_program/index.jsp
SkyMiles/WorldPerks Integration Timeline
We're working to align the Delta SkyMiles and Northwest® WorldPerks programs to create the world's largest and best airline loyalty program—and there's a lot going on.
Check out the timeline below for the latest news and an overview of what's happening in 2009.
And remember that your base miles, elite qualification miles, membership status, lifetime mileage, and lounge memberships are safe and will be honored.The timeline will be regularly updated with the latest program news so check back often.
October 2008
Delta and Northwest merger approved.
November 2008
Delta & Northwest Elite Upgrade Reciprocity began. Delta announced expanded alliance partnership with Alaska Airlines.
December 2008
American Express named as the exclusive co-brand credit card issuer. American Express will continue to be the co-brand credit card partner for the current and integrated SkyMiles program.
January 2009
WorldPerks & SkyMiles Program alignment begins.
·Continental Airlines® announced it's leaving SkyTeam® alliance in October 2009. SkyMiles and WorldPerks members can continue to redeem miles for Continental Award Tickets until further notice.
·SkyMiles members can earn Medallion status via segment qualification.
WorldPerks program changes include:
·Award fee alignment to Delta and competitive industry levels.
·Saturday night stay requirement removed from Award Tickets.
·WorldPerks Platinum Elite members receive six systemwide upgrades.
·WorldPerks members may now book Award Travel on Northwest operated flights at low, medium, and high mileage Awards in Economy Class.
Interesting fact: Delta has offered Platinum Medallion upgrade certificates since 1997 and Northwest has had a Saturday night stay requirement for Award Tickets since 1999.
February 2009
Account linking and mileage transfer launched.
WorldPerks and SkyMiles members can link and transfer miles between WorldPerks and SkyMiles accounts; link accounts before April 15, 2009 and earn 500 bonus miles.
Interesting fact: So far more than 350,000 accounts have been linked. We encourage all others to link accounts today.
March 2009
Continued alignment of Delta and Northwest program benefits, including details of mileage upgrade reciprocity for all members and systemwide upgrade reciprocity for Platinum Elites/Platinum Medallions.
Effective March 1, 2009:
· WorldPerks Platinum Elites and SkyMiles Platinum Medallions receive two reissue and redeposit fee waivers and pay $50 for every other instance.
· Similar to SkyMiles members, WorldPerks members now earn an incremental 50 percent mileage bonus when booked in Y, B and M coach fare classes.
· SkyMiles program removes Saturday night stay requirement for booking Northwest Award Tickets.
April 2009
Communicate new benefits to Delta SkyMiles Credit Cardmembers in the United States.
For Gold and Platinum Delta SkyMiles and Delta Reserve Credit Cardmembers:
·Use Pay with Miles on Northwest operated flights.
·If you redeem a companion certificate over the phone your $20 direct ticketing fee is waived, effective March 26, 2009.
·Companion certificates issued after April 20th, 2009 can be redeemed online.
For the Platinum Delta SkyMiles and Delta Reserve Credit Cardmembers:
·If you redeem an Award Ticket less than 21 days prior to departure your award ticket redemption fees are waived.
·If you redeem an Award Ticket on a partner airline your partner airline award handling fees are waived. For SkyMiles Platinum Medallions, unlimited partner airline Award handling fee waiver.
Interesting fact: WorldPerks and SkyMiles members will be able to use Platinum systemwide upgrade certificates or book mileage-based upgrades on both Delta and Northwest flights to six continents.
May 2009
Begin communicating detailed information regarding the integration of WorldPerks into the SkyMiles program and the additional alignment of program benefits.
New benefits coming this month:
·WorldPerks and SkyMiles members’ ability to redeem mileage upgrades on both Delta and Northwest operated flights.
·WorldPerks Platinum Elites and SkyMiles Platinum Medallions’ ability to redeem systemwide upgrade certificates on both Delta and Northwest operated flights.
·The ability for SkyMiles members to book low, medium, and high mileage Awards on Northwest operated flights and the expansion of the new three-tiered Award structure to Northwest premium cabins.
Interesting Fact: In 2008 Delta issued more than 3 million Award Tickets, and 500,000 of these Award Tickets were flown on dates when other airlines blacked-out award travel.
June 2009
Launch ability for WorldPerks members to book Award Tickets on Delta operated flights at all low, mid, and high mileage Awards in Premium Class.
July 2009
Communicate launch date for when SkyMiles Gold and Platinum Medallion members will be eligible for Complimentary Medallion Upgrades on Award Tickets.
August 2009
Announce the 2010 SkyMiles Medallion/Elite program details and tentative launch date of a new domestic SkyMiles co-branded debit card.
In addition to the existing 2009 Medallion/Elite Program benefits, the 2010 SkyMiles Medallion/Elite Program will have four elite levels
September 2009
Communicate final and complete details regarding the integration of the WorldPerks program into the SkyMiles program.
October 2009
Continental Airlines leaves SkyTeam Alliance and no longer offers our SkyMiles and WorldPerks members the ability to earn or redeem miles on Continental flights.
November 2009
Program integration enters the final stage.
December 2009
WorldPerks members transition into the SkyMiles program.
·All 2009 WorldPerks Elite Qualifying Miles, Elite Qualifying Segments, and mileage balances will be transferred from WorldPerks accounts to their linked SkyMiles accounts to ensure proper status for 2010.
·WorldPerks members who do not have a SkyMiles account will receive a new SkyMiles number, and all WorldPerks EQMs and mileage balances will be transferred to their new SkyMiles accounts.
Interesting fact: The SkyMiles program will include more than 74 million members once WorldPerks members become part of the SkyMiles program.
January 1, 2010
Launch of the new 2010 SkyMiles Medallion program.
January & February 2010
Mail new SkyMiles Medallion credential kits.
Non-Medallion members will receive a SkyMiles membership card upon completion of their first Delta activity.
I thought that October 2009 was an interesting one……CO will no longer be a partner with NW and DL, so you won’t get miles from CO on your World Perks……..
Here is the web link: http://www.delta.com/skymiles/about_skymiles/sm_wp_integration_program/index.jsp
SkyMiles/WorldPerks Integration Timeline
We're working to align the Delta SkyMiles and Northwest® WorldPerks programs to create the world's largest and best airline loyalty program—and there's a lot going on.
Check out the timeline below for the latest news and an overview of what's happening in 2009.
And remember that your base miles, elite qualification miles, membership status, lifetime mileage, and lounge memberships are safe and will be honored.The timeline will be regularly updated with the latest program news so check back often.
October 2008
Delta and Northwest merger approved.
November 2008
Delta & Northwest Elite Upgrade Reciprocity began. Delta announced expanded alliance partnership with Alaska Airlines.
December 2008
American Express named as the exclusive co-brand credit card issuer. American Express will continue to be the co-brand credit card partner for the current and integrated SkyMiles program.
January 2009
WorldPerks & SkyMiles Program alignment begins.
·Continental Airlines® announced it's leaving SkyTeam® alliance in October 2009. SkyMiles and WorldPerks members can continue to redeem miles for Continental Award Tickets until further notice.
·SkyMiles members can earn Medallion status via segment qualification.
WorldPerks program changes include:
·Award fee alignment to Delta and competitive industry levels.
·Saturday night stay requirement removed from Award Tickets.
·WorldPerks Platinum Elite members receive six systemwide upgrades.
·WorldPerks members may now book Award Travel on Northwest operated flights at low, medium, and high mileage Awards in Economy Class.
Interesting fact: Delta has offered Platinum Medallion upgrade certificates since 1997 and Northwest has had a Saturday night stay requirement for Award Tickets since 1999.
February 2009
Account linking and mileage transfer launched.
WorldPerks and SkyMiles members can link and transfer miles between WorldPerks and SkyMiles accounts; link accounts before April 15, 2009 and earn 500 bonus miles.
Interesting fact: So far more than 350,000 accounts have been linked. We encourage all others to link accounts today.
March 2009
Continued alignment of Delta and Northwest program benefits, including details of mileage upgrade reciprocity for all members and systemwide upgrade reciprocity for Platinum Elites/Platinum Medallions.
Effective March 1, 2009:
· WorldPerks Platinum Elites and SkyMiles Platinum Medallions receive two reissue and redeposit fee waivers and pay $50 for every other instance.
· Similar to SkyMiles members, WorldPerks members now earn an incremental 50 percent mileage bonus when booked in Y, B and M coach fare classes.
· SkyMiles program removes Saturday night stay requirement for booking Northwest Award Tickets.
April 2009
Communicate new benefits to Delta SkyMiles Credit Cardmembers in the United States.
For Gold and Platinum Delta SkyMiles and Delta Reserve Credit Cardmembers:
·Use Pay with Miles on Northwest operated flights.
·If you redeem a companion certificate over the phone your $20 direct ticketing fee is waived, effective March 26, 2009.
·Companion certificates issued after April 20th, 2009 can be redeemed online.
For the Platinum Delta SkyMiles and Delta Reserve Credit Cardmembers:
·If you redeem an Award Ticket less than 21 days prior to departure your award ticket redemption fees are waived.
·If you redeem an Award Ticket on a partner airline your partner airline award handling fees are waived. For SkyMiles Platinum Medallions, unlimited partner airline Award handling fee waiver.
Interesting fact: WorldPerks and SkyMiles members will be able to use Platinum systemwide upgrade certificates or book mileage-based upgrades on both Delta and Northwest flights to six continents.
May 2009
Begin communicating detailed information regarding the integration of WorldPerks into the SkyMiles program and the additional alignment of program benefits.
New benefits coming this month:
·WorldPerks and SkyMiles members’ ability to redeem mileage upgrades on both Delta and Northwest operated flights.
·WorldPerks Platinum Elites and SkyMiles Platinum Medallions’ ability to redeem systemwide upgrade certificates on both Delta and Northwest operated flights.
·The ability for SkyMiles members to book low, medium, and high mileage Awards on Northwest operated flights and the expansion of the new three-tiered Award structure to Northwest premium cabins.
Interesting Fact: In 2008 Delta issued more than 3 million Award Tickets, and 500,000 of these Award Tickets were flown on dates when other airlines blacked-out award travel.
June 2009
Launch ability for WorldPerks members to book Award Tickets on Delta operated flights at all low, mid, and high mileage Awards in Premium Class.
July 2009
Communicate launch date for when SkyMiles Gold and Platinum Medallion members will be eligible for Complimentary Medallion Upgrades on Award Tickets.
August 2009
Announce the 2010 SkyMiles Medallion/Elite program details and tentative launch date of a new domestic SkyMiles co-branded debit card.
In addition to the existing 2009 Medallion/Elite Program benefits, the 2010 SkyMiles Medallion/Elite Program will have four elite levels
September 2009
Communicate final and complete details regarding the integration of the WorldPerks program into the SkyMiles program.
October 2009
Continental Airlines leaves SkyTeam Alliance and no longer offers our SkyMiles and WorldPerks members the ability to earn or redeem miles on Continental flights.
November 2009
Program integration enters the final stage.
December 2009
WorldPerks members transition into the SkyMiles program.
·All 2009 WorldPerks Elite Qualifying Miles, Elite Qualifying Segments, and mileage balances will be transferred from WorldPerks accounts to their linked SkyMiles accounts to ensure proper status for 2010.
·WorldPerks members who do not have a SkyMiles account will receive a new SkyMiles number, and all WorldPerks EQMs and mileage balances will be transferred to their new SkyMiles accounts.
Interesting fact: The SkyMiles program will include more than 74 million members once WorldPerks members become part of the SkyMiles program.
January 1, 2010
Launch of the new 2010 SkyMiles Medallion program.
January & February 2010
Mail new SkyMiles Medallion credential kits.
Non-Medallion members will receive a SkyMiles membership card upon completion of their first Delta activity.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Cruise Terms Test Your Skills!!!
Match Game
How knowledgeable are you on cruise terms?
How knowledgeable are you on cruise terms?
Match the defination to the word:
1. Basis two
2. Cross-selling
3. Alumni rate
4. GRT
5. Berth
6. Lido deck
7. Port
8. Draft
9. Space ratio
10. Magrodome
11. Quarter deck
12. POE
13. Tender
3. Alumni rate
4. GRT
5. Berth
6. Lido deck
7. Port
8. Draft
9. Space ratio
10. Magrodome
11. Quarter deck
12. POE
13. Tender
14. Starboard
15. Bow
15. Bow
.
A. Small boat that ferries passengers
B. Figure determined by dividing GRT by passenger capacity
C. Pool deck area with informal, buffet-like dining
D. Glass skylight that slides to cover pool area
E. Facing forward, the left side of the ship
F. Discounted rate given to those who have sailed a line before
G. The front of the ship
H. Offering client something in addition to the cruise, but related
I. Bed in a ship, also can refer to the docking space of a ship
J. Pricing per person, based in two passengers sharing
K. Depth of water a ship draws
L. Facing forward, the right side of the ship
M. Stern or rear part of upper deck reserved for ship's officers
N. Point of embarkation
O. Gross registered tonnage;determines volume of public spaces
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Chicago Exhibit Welcomes Potter Fans to Hogwarts
Harry Potter has captured the attention of many readers young and old, and with the series of movies, the fan base just keeps growing for generations.
Thank you to USAToday for this great article:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2009-04-28-potter-exhibition_N.htm
By Judy Keen, USA TODAY
CHICAGO — Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is finally admitting Muggles.
Muggles — non-magical humans — are never seen at the mythic school where Harry Potter learns spells, potions and defense against the dark arts, but they're welcome at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry, where more than 200 props and costumes from the blockbuster movies re-create Hogwarts in an exhibition that opens Thursday.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition takes visitors from the Hogwarts Express train platform through the Gryffindor common room, classrooms, the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest and Hagrid's hut. The tour is populated with creatures from the seven novels by J.K. Rowling and six Potter movies: life-sized centaurs, Buckbeak the hippogriff, dementors, thestrals and Dobby the house elf. Along the way are vignettes featuring dozens of elaborate costumes and icons of the Potter universe, including Harry's magic wand and round glasses.
Read More....
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2009-04-28-potter-exhibition_N.htm
Thank you to USAToday for this great article:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2009-04-28-potter-exhibition_N.htm
By Judy Keen, USA TODAY
CHICAGO — Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is finally admitting Muggles.
Muggles — non-magical humans — are never seen at the mythic school where Harry Potter learns spells, potions and defense against the dark arts, but they're welcome at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry, where more than 200 props and costumes from the blockbuster movies re-create Hogwarts in an exhibition that opens Thursday.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition takes visitors from the Hogwarts Express train platform through the Gryffindor common room, classrooms, the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest and Hagrid's hut. The tour is populated with creatures from the seven novels by J.K. Rowling and six Potter movies: life-sized centaurs, Buckbeak the hippogriff, dementors, thestrals and Dobby the house elf. Along the way are vignettes featuring dozens of elaborate costumes and icons of the Potter universe, including Harry's magic wand and round glasses.
Read More....
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2009-04-28-potter-exhibition_N.htm
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Swine Flu --Perspective people.....perspective!
OK, we've all been overexposed to the media these past couple weeks, with all the constant -in your face- approaches to the swine flu. What, in reality, IS the impact that this is having?
I don't believe that the flu is what is spreading like wildfire, it's the media! It's once again being blown so far out of proportion, that some people actually are afraid to leave their homes! Yipes!
I just received this communication from GOGO, and I am finding it extremely informative, so hopefully this will help put some things into perspective.
-----------
Hi everyone- First and foremost, thank you for all of your support and hard work over the last few days – I know it has been very challenging. As always, the Mexico team’s goal is to provide you with honest, forthright information that you case share with your clients, both agents and end consumers. Here is the low down on our own experience, as well as the facts released from both the U.S. and Mexican Government. I am part of a task force on this issue, and I hope you will find this information useful – if there are other questions please let me know. Our goal is to provide as many facts as possible and have you come to your own conclusions.
WHAT IS SWINE FLU?
Swine flu is influenza, and as such people should take the typical precautions that they would with any other illness: Wash hands often, cover your mouth while coughing and stay home if you are sick. This having been said, the impact of the swine flu illness has been considerably smaller than the media has led us to believe. Read on……
RELATIVE PARAMETERS:
A) - Population of Mexico City – 26.7 million people. Deaths confirmed to be swine flu – 16 (see below)** Relative percentage 5 ten millionths of one percent
- Population of the United States 306 million people. Annual deaths associated to the flu 38,000. Relative percentage – 6 one millionths of one percent.
- Population of Asia 3.8 million people. Deaths associated to SARS -700 Relative percentage: 2 ten thousandths of one percent
B). Part of a press release from the Health Minister of Mexico which contains information of great importance:
“Mexico’s Health Minister, José Angel Córdova, **informed that of the 159 deaths occurred during the flu outbreak in the country, 85 remain as suspicious, 16 have been confirmed and in 58 there was no relation to the new virus.** In the case of the 16 deaths confirmed with swine flu, 11 were in México City, 3 in the State of México, one in Oaxaca and one in Tlaxcala.” The end result? Only 16 of the deaths have been 100% associated to swine flu – that is 10% of the number originally stated by the media.
C). No Confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported in any of the resort areas we work with. The Mexican Government is researching the information regarding the students that allegedly got swine flu in Cancun to research if it was indeed swine flu or the regular flu. No cases have been reported in the state of Quintana Roo at all – Cancun, Rivera Maya, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel. Please see attached letter from the State Government.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES TAKEN IN MEXICO CITY: as you have seen in the media, there has been distribution of face masks, a reduction in public gatherings, mall closures and cancellation of some public events, such as soccer matches. These were PREVENTATIVE measures, not reactions to an increase in the number of people getting sick. The media had a field day focusing on this - The Mexican government made some tough decisions in order to take the responsibility of curbing this illness as fast as possible. Know what people in Mexico City are saying today? They are dying of boredom because there is nothing to do! ( CBS Sunday Morning 5/3/09)
MY OWN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:
Myself and 7 other people from HQ were down in Acapulco for a Trade Event from April 23 - 29th. Acapulco is a 3 hour drive from Mexico City. We did not see any sick persons or an escalation in health activity or impact of the flu in the area were we were - convention center, main roadways, restaurants etc. We were around 3,000 other participants in the trade show, many of them from Mexico City.
Am I discounting the swine flu? Absolutely not – I flew home on Wednesday and had a doctor's appointment set for Thursday morning. Which they promptly called to cancel! When I explained where I had been for a week and that there were 3,000 people in attendance, I was told that I could come to in speak to a doctor, but without exhibiting a fever or other systems, they would not give me a blood test, swab test or prescription for Tamiflu. I went to the doctor, who showed me the US State Department Guidelines, for giving flu tests or prescriptions, and they were pretty detailed. End result? The government instituted guidelines because people were “overreacting” to the information provided from the media, creating an “infodemic” and medical offices could no longer handle the volume……… P.S. Myself and the others are fine – other than having been a little stressed out! J
From the Palm Beach Post - PLEASE NOTE THIS IMPORTANT DEFINITION – the World Health Organization (WHO) uses the term pandemic (and its number scale) to refer only to geographic spread and not to the severity of cases an illness. The two most recent pandemics — in 1957 and 1968 — were relatively mild. When we went for a number 4 to a number 5, it was based on the number of countries it had spread to, not that the number of case had doubled or tripled.
5. THE END RESULT OF AN INFODEMIC: from a recent Travel Weekly Mexico E letter L
“ Although the scope and severity of the swine flu outbreak is still unclear, recent worldwide health scares have dealt a severe blow to tourism in affected countries. For example, during the 2002-2003 outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in parts of Asia, travel to the region plunged. SARS, which killed more than 700 people and sickened hundreds more, was blamed for a 20% reduction in air traffic to the region. Fearing the spread of SARS, some countries in Asia closed their borders to visitors from mainland China and Hong Kong, while others instituted strict health screenings at airports and border crossings.”
The impact on our Mexico business? More than 32,000 room nights and $6.1 M in cancelled or rebooked land sales, the majority for travel in May.
OUR RESPONSE – for the next 3 weeks we will gather additional information, and continue to communicate what we find. Then we will make some strategic decisions on how to begin promoting the Mexico product again. We are getting ready for a comeback!
As always, in traveling anywhere – even at home in the USA, exercise appropriate care where you are – and enjoy the destination and take back happy memories with you. Thank you and looking forward to your future support!
Colette Baruth Vice President of Product - Mexico & Latin America LibGo Travel, A Division of Flight Centre USA Inc
I don't believe that the flu is what is spreading like wildfire, it's the media! It's once again being blown so far out of proportion, that some people actually are afraid to leave their homes! Yipes!
I just received this communication from GOGO, and I am finding it extremely informative, so hopefully this will help put some things into perspective.
-----------
Hi everyone- First and foremost, thank you for all of your support and hard work over the last few days – I know it has been very challenging. As always, the Mexico team’s goal is to provide you with honest, forthright information that you case share with your clients, both agents and end consumers. Here is the low down on our own experience, as well as the facts released from both the U.S. and Mexican Government. I am part of a task force on this issue, and I hope you will find this information useful – if there are other questions please let me know. Our goal is to provide as many facts as possible and have you come to your own conclusions.
WHAT IS SWINE FLU?
Swine flu is influenza, and as such people should take the typical precautions that they would with any other illness: Wash hands often, cover your mouth while coughing and stay home if you are sick. This having been said, the impact of the swine flu illness has been considerably smaller than the media has led us to believe. Read on……
RELATIVE PARAMETERS:
A) - Population of Mexico City – 26.7 million people. Deaths confirmed to be swine flu – 16 (see below)** Relative percentage 5 ten millionths of one percent
- Population of the United States 306 million people. Annual deaths associated to the flu 38,000. Relative percentage – 6 one millionths of one percent.
- Population of Asia 3.8 million people. Deaths associated to SARS -700 Relative percentage: 2 ten thousandths of one percent
B). Part of a press release from the Health Minister of Mexico which contains information of great importance:
“Mexico’s Health Minister, José Angel Córdova, **informed that of the 159 deaths occurred during the flu outbreak in the country, 85 remain as suspicious, 16 have been confirmed and in 58 there was no relation to the new virus.** In the case of the 16 deaths confirmed with swine flu, 11 were in México City, 3 in the State of México, one in Oaxaca and one in Tlaxcala.” The end result? Only 16 of the deaths have been 100% associated to swine flu – that is 10% of the number originally stated by the media.
C). No Confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported in any of the resort areas we work with. The Mexican Government is researching the information regarding the students that allegedly got swine flu in Cancun to research if it was indeed swine flu or the regular flu. No cases have been reported in the state of Quintana Roo at all – Cancun, Rivera Maya, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel. Please see attached letter from the State Government.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES TAKEN IN MEXICO CITY: as you have seen in the media, there has been distribution of face masks, a reduction in public gatherings, mall closures and cancellation of some public events, such as soccer matches. These were PREVENTATIVE measures, not reactions to an increase in the number of people getting sick. The media had a field day focusing on this - The Mexican government made some tough decisions in order to take the responsibility of curbing this illness as fast as possible. Know what people in Mexico City are saying today? They are dying of boredom because there is nothing to do! ( CBS Sunday Morning 5/3/09)
MY OWN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:
Myself and 7 other people from HQ were down in Acapulco for a Trade Event from April 23 - 29th. Acapulco is a 3 hour drive from Mexico City. We did not see any sick persons or an escalation in health activity or impact of the flu in the area were we were - convention center, main roadways, restaurants etc. We were around 3,000 other participants in the trade show, many of them from Mexico City.
Am I discounting the swine flu? Absolutely not – I flew home on Wednesday and had a doctor's appointment set for Thursday morning. Which they promptly called to cancel! When I explained where I had been for a week and that there were 3,000 people in attendance, I was told that I could come to in speak to a doctor, but without exhibiting a fever or other systems, they would not give me a blood test, swab test or prescription for Tamiflu. I went to the doctor, who showed me the US State Department Guidelines, for giving flu tests or prescriptions, and they were pretty detailed. End result? The government instituted guidelines because people were “overreacting” to the information provided from the media, creating an “infodemic” and medical offices could no longer handle the volume……… P.S. Myself and the others are fine – other than having been a little stressed out! J
From the Palm Beach Post - PLEASE NOTE THIS IMPORTANT DEFINITION – the World Health Organization (WHO) uses the term pandemic (and its number scale) to refer only to geographic spread and not to the severity of cases an illness. The two most recent pandemics — in 1957 and 1968 — were relatively mild. When we went for a number 4 to a number 5, it was based on the number of countries it had spread to, not that the number of case had doubled or tripled.
5. THE END RESULT OF AN INFODEMIC: from a recent Travel Weekly Mexico E letter L
“ Although the scope and severity of the swine flu outbreak is still unclear, recent worldwide health scares have dealt a severe blow to tourism in affected countries. For example, during the 2002-2003 outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in parts of Asia, travel to the region plunged. SARS, which killed more than 700 people and sickened hundreds more, was blamed for a 20% reduction in air traffic to the region. Fearing the spread of SARS, some countries in Asia closed their borders to visitors from mainland China and Hong Kong, while others instituted strict health screenings at airports and border crossings.”
The impact on our Mexico business? More than 32,000 room nights and $6.1 M in cancelled or rebooked land sales, the majority for travel in May.
OUR RESPONSE – for the next 3 weeks we will gather additional information, and continue to communicate what we find. Then we will make some strategic decisions on how to begin promoting the Mexico product again. We are getting ready for a comeback!
As always, in traveling anywhere – even at home in the USA, exercise appropriate care where you are – and enjoy the destination and take back happy memories with you. Thank you and looking forward to your future support!
Colette Baruth Vice President of Product - Mexico & Latin America LibGo Travel, A Division of Flight Centre USA Inc
Thursday, April 30, 2009
What if the world starts thinking like airlines....??
OK, this is an oldie but a goodie.......
Thank you to tripso for posting this again. I have read this one, and a couple other that are similar, but it always makes me giggle.
Hope this brightens you day too!!!
The following scenario may sound far-fetched when applied to buying a pair of shoes. But substitute the word airline, and …
Customer: “I’d like to buy a pair of the “Supercool Superfast” running shoes you have advertised for $39.99, size 8 medium.”
Clerk: “Certainly ma’am, that will be $159.99.”
Customer: “Wait a minute,the advertised price said $39.99.”
Clerk: “Yes, but that’s per shoe.”
Customer: “That’s still only about half of what you are charging me.”
Clerk: “Yes, but that doesn’t include the fuel costs involved to get the shoes to our store. And of course sales tax, a fee to cover our store security, and local taxes from China where the shoes were made. Plus there’s a couple others, I don’t remember them exactly.”
Customer: “That doesn’t really seem right.”
Clerk: “And that final price does include a surcharge for my personal assistance. We do have to charge a little more when you don’t order online.”
Customer: “So I could have gotten a better price without actually coming to the store?”
Clerk: “Yes, if you could have figured out our Web site, I have been told it’s a little confusing. And then there would have been a restocking fee if you didn’t like the shoes.”
Customer: “So there really were no shoes available at the advertised price?”
Clerk: “No, the ad is correct. But actually, it’s all explained in the fine print. You know the price would have been cheaper if you came in Tuesday or Wednesday night. And the least expensive price is only available for size 5 narrow. Most sizes are more. Just be glad you don’t need one of our premium sizes.”
Customer: “Well, I need the shoes, and they are supposed to be great. So fine, I’ll take them.”
Clerk: “Great, and would you like laces for an additional $20?”
Thank you to tripso for posting this again. I have read this one, and a couple other that are similar, but it always makes me giggle.
Hope this brightens you day too!!!
The following scenario may sound far-fetched when applied to buying a pair of shoes. But substitute the word airline, and …
Customer: “I’d like to buy a pair of the “Supercool Superfast” running shoes you have advertised for $39.99, size 8 medium.”
Clerk: “Certainly ma’am, that will be $159.99.”
Customer: “Wait a minute,the advertised price said $39.99.”
Clerk: “Yes, but that’s per shoe.”
Customer: “That’s still only about half of what you are charging me.”
Clerk: “Yes, but that doesn’t include the fuel costs involved to get the shoes to our store. And of course sales tax, a fee to cover our store security, and local taxes from China where the shoes were made. Plus there’s a couple others, I don’t remember them exactly.”
Customer: “That doesn’t really seem right.”
Clerk: “And that final price does include a surcharge for my personal assistance. We do have to charge a little more when you don’t order online.”
Customer: “So I could have gotten a better price without actually coming to the store?”
Clerk: “Yes, if you could have figured out our Web site, I have been told it’s a little confusing. And then there would have been a restocking fee if you didn’t like the shoes.”
Customer: “So there really were no shoes available at the advertised price?”
Clerk: “No, the ad is correct. But actually, it’s all explained in the fine print. You know the price would have been cheaper if you came in Tuesday or Wednesday night. And the least expensive price is only available for size 5 narrow. Most sizes are more. Just be glad you don’t need one of our premium sizes.”
Customer: “Well, I need the shoes, and they are supposed to be great. So fine, I’ll take them.”
Clerk: “Great, and would you like laces for an additional $20?”
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Swine Flu Updates
Looking for the most comprehensive updates?
Here it is.........more information than you could possibly want, from twitter messaging to Centers for Disease Control to World Health Organization alerts, and more.....
Drumroll please..........
Here it is:
http://www.netvibes.com/btc#Flu
We're all trying to stay updated, and this is a great resource.
Here it is.........more information than you could possibly want, from twitter messaging to Centers for Disease Control to World Health Organization alerts, and more.....
Drumroll please..........
Here it is:
http://www.netvibes.com/btc#Flu
We're all trying to stay updated, and this is a great resource.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Swine Flu and Travel, Everyone's Talking!!!
Thank you to Yahoo News for this article: (please read it!)
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20090427/ap_tr_ge/us_travel_brief_swine_flu_airlines;_ylt=Ag42NS.ZdLz5koQcgDUbHtQ8sM0F
As of right now, the airlines have not cancelled any flights due to the Swine Flu.
Many are offering a waiver to make changes, but most are to change your ticket by a week or two at most.....
(Yahoo News) U.S. health officials declared a public health emergency Sunday, saying 20 swine flu cases have been reported so far in New York, Ohio, Kansas, Texas and California, primarily linked to recent travel to Mexico. Canada became the third country to confirm human cases of swine flu Sunday and multiple nations including New Zealand and Spain also suspect infection. Some are moving to quarantine travelers from affected regions and advising their citizens to postpone travel to certain areas in Mexico.
U.S. officials said they will begin asking travelers about illness if they're entering the country from regions with confirmed swine flu.
As of right now, Northwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Continental Airlines are all offering some form of waiver. Each are a little different, and none are a full refund that I've seen.....
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20090427/ap_tr_ge/us_travel_brief_swine_flu_airlines;_ylt=Ag42NS.ZdLz5koQcgDUbHtQ8sM0F
As of right now, the airlines have not cancelled any flights due to the Swine Flu.
Many are offering a waiver to make changes, but most are to change your ticket by a week or two at most.....
(Yahoo News) U.S. health officials declared a public health emergency Sunday, saying 20 swine flu cases have been reported so far in New York, Ohio, Kansas, Texas and California, primarily linked to recent travel to Mexico. Canada became the third country to confirm human cases of swine flu Sunday and multiple nations including New Zealand and Spain also suspect infection. Some are moving to quarantine travelers from affected regions and advising their citizens to postpone travel to certain areas in Mexico.
U.S. officials said they will begin asking travelers about illness if they're entering the country from regions with confirmed swine flu.
As of right now, Northwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Continental Airlines are all offering some form of waiver. Each are a little different, and none are a full refund that I've seen.....
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Happy Vacations
Not-So-Happy--Happy Vacations.......
As some of you may have heard, Happy Vacations is re-organizing........
http://www.happyvacations.com/
If you currently have a trip booked with Happy Vacations, and are looking to re-book onto another similar trip, please CONTACT US!!! We'd be more than happy to assist you! We have many tour providers that we work with that have been graciously offering exclusive discounts for us to help you out.......
We will need your current reservation information to submit, and then we can assist further.
Here is what the Happy Vacations website currently says:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2009
Happy Vacations to Reorganize
Several weeks ago Happy Vacations secured limited financing as an interim step towards a recapitalization. The company has been in discussions with a number of interested parties to add more capital and to potentially buy all or part of the company. Those discussions continue. Happy Vacations, however, has yet to obtain the needed funds and has no choice, at least in the interim, to cease current operations.
“The company has some viable components that are less affected by these very difficult economic times, and we will build on these to emerge from reorganization as a stronger company.”
“After 40 years in the business we at Happy Vacations are heart-broken about the turn of events and our difficult decision to disrupt our current operations. We truly appreciate the support and concern from our Travel Agency and vendor partners. We apologize for any disruption, inconvenience or losses.” said David Marshall, President, Happy Vacations.
Happy is working with other travel providers to protect as many travelers as possible and will distribute this information throughout the week. Travel Agents are advised to take immediate action to ensure that your clients’ trips are not disrupted.
Check this site for future developments.
As some of you may have heard, Happy Vacations is re-organizing........
http://www.happyvacations.com/
If you currently have a trip booked with Happy Vacations, and are looking to re-book onto another similar trip, please CONTACT US!!! We'd be more than happy to assist you! We have many tour providers that we work with that have been graciously offering exclusive discounts for us to help you out.......
We will need your current reservation information to submit, and then we can assist further.
Here is what the Happy Vacations website currently says:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2009
Happy Vacations to Reorganize
Several weeks ago Happy Vacations secured limited financing as an interim step towards a recapitalization. The company has been in discussions with a number of interested parties to add more capital and to potentially buy all or part of the company. Those discussions continue. Happy Vacations, however, has yet to obtain the needed funds and has no choice, at least in the interim, to cease current operations.
“The company has some viable components that are less affected by these very difficult economic times, and we will build on these to emerge from reorganization as a stronger company.”
“After 40 years in the business we at Happy Vacations are heart-broken about the turn of events and our difficult decision to disrupt our current operations. We truly appreciate the support and concern from our Travel Agency and vendor partners. We apologize for any disruption, inconvenience or losses.” said David Marshall, President, Happy Vacations.
Happy is working with other travel providers to protect as many travelers as possible and will distribute this information throughout the week. Travel Agents are advised to take immediate action to ensure that your clients’ trips are not disrupted.
Check this site for future developments.
Twitter's the word...Twitter...tweet tweet!!!
Here are some of my fav's
Travel Leaders (of course!!): http://twitter.com/travelleaders
Andrew Zimmern (love this guy!!): http://twitter.com/bizarrefoods
I'm a huge Disney fan (this twitter site is un-official, but I like it): http://twitter.com/TheDisneyBlog
Another great site with great YouTube links, thank you to The Disney Blog: http://thedisneyblog.com/2008/06/26/disney-parks-slowly-moves-onto-twitter/
Barbados: http://twitter.com/BarbadosTravel
Do you have a favorite that you'd like to share with me? Please drop me a line!!!
Travel Leaders (of course!!): http://twitter.com/travelleaders
Andrew Zimmern (love this guy!!): http://twitter.com/bizarrefoods
I'm a huge Disney fan (this twitter site is un-official, but I like it): http://twitter.com/TheDisneyBlog
Another great site with great YouTube links, thank you to The Disney Blog: http://thedisneyblog.com/2008/06/26/disney-parks-slowly-moves-onto-twitter/
Barbados: http://twitter.com/BarbadosTravel
Do you have a favorite that you'd like to share with me? Please drop me a line!!!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Princess Cruise Lines Twitter
Do you Twitter?????
This term is unheard of for some, and old hat for others....but if you don't "Twitter", maybe this would be a fun way to start twittering.....
Here is the webpage to follow: http://www.princess.com/goldendrydock/
Here is the TWITTER page to follow: http://twitter.com/PrincessCruises
There will be a daily photo progress report and other fun tweets. Check it out!!!!!!
This term is unheard of for some, and old hat for others....but if you don't "Twitter", maybe this would be a fun way to start twittering.....
Here is the webpage to follow: http://www.princess.com/goldendrydock/
Here is the TWITTER page to follow: http://twitter.com/PrincessCruises
There will be a daily photo progress report and other fun tweets. Check it out!!!!!!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Prevent your Frequent Flyer Miles from Expiration!!!
Thank you to Money Blue Book, for posting this great article:
This post dates back to October 2007. I'm sure there are updates to these programs, but here are some great tips to keep your account active....
I used to fly a lot and racked up a lot of frequent flyer miles over the years, but now I have to be extra careful. Airline travelers who don’t use their frequent flyer miles…well, frequently, may soon discover that their miles have expired. It is a growing trend, but airlines have shortened the time period that an account can remain inactive before miles expire. In most cases that time period ranges between 1 to 2 years.
Here Are the Expiration Policies For Some of the Biggest Airlines(current Oct 2007):
AirTran: Points in A+ Rewards expire after 12 months.
American Airlines: AAdvantage® miles expire after 36 months of inactivity.
Continental Airlines: OnePass miles do not expire. There is a written policy that says they do, but the airline does not enforce the policy.
Delta Airlines: Delta SkyMiles expire after 2 years of inactivity.
JetBlue: TrueBlue points expire one full year from the date that they are earned.
Northwest Airlines: Northwest WorldPerks miles expire if none are earned for 3 calendar years.
Southwest Airlines: Rapid Rewards points expire after 2 years.
United Airlines: Mileage Plus miles expire after 36 months of inactivity. Starting December 31, 2007, miles will expire after 18 months of inactivity.
U.S. Airways: Dividend Miles expire after 18 months of inactivity.
How You Can Easily Prevent Mileage Expiration
The way to prevent your miles from lapsing due to inactivity is to simply generate miles-earning activity for each airline that you have an account with. Other using than using a specialized miles-generating credit card rewards like the Starwood Preferred, another relatively easy way is by making a purchase at the airline’s own shopping portal, where you earn miles for each purchase. This will allow you to earn a few miles, enough to reset the inactivity clock. Most of the popular stores such as iTunes, Best Buy, and Circuit City can be found at each airline’s shopping website.
Links to the Major Airlines’ Shopping Websites:
American Airlines: AAdvantage® eShopping
Continental Airlines: ShopOnePass
Delta Airlines: Delta SkyMile Shopping
Northwest Airlines: WorldPerks Mall
United Airlines: Mileage Plus Mall
U.S. Airways: Dividend Miles Shopping Mall
Make Sure Your Purchases Count To Reset the Account Activity Clock
--- To ensure that you receive mileage credit for the purchase made through the airline’s shopping portal, make sure your shopping cart is empty before doing the click through. For example, don’t visit Best Buy, add something to your cart and then revisit Best Buy by clicking through the airline’s shopping portal website. You may not receive mileage credit for the items already in your cart. Visit the store through the airline’s website first before making purchases to receive proper mileage credit.
--- There is no minimum mileage you need to earn to reset the inactivity clock. If you can make a quick purchase for a $1 item that allows you to accrue a few miles towards your frequent flyer plan, that is sufficient to reset and prevent expiration.
--- One way to track your miles and monitor your most recent activity in each of your frequent flyer accounts is by using USA Today’s downloadable MileTracker application.
This post dates back to October 2007. I'm sure there are updates to these programs, but here are some great tips to keep your account active....
I used to fly a lot and racked up a lot of frequent flyer miles over the years, but now I have to be extra careful. Airline travelers who don’t use their frequent flyer miles…well, frequently, may soon discover that their miles have expired. It is a growing trend, but airlines have shortened the time period that an account can remain inactive before miles expire. In most cases that time period ranges between 1 to 2 years.
Here Are the Expiration Policies For Some of the Biggest Airlines(current Oct 2007):
AirTran: Points in A+ Rewards expire after 12 months.
American Airlines: AAdvantage® miles expire after 36 months of inactivity.
Continental Airlines: OnePass miles do not expire. There is a written policy that says they do, but the airline does not enforce the policy.
Delta Airlines: Delta SkyMiles expire after 2 years of inactivity.
JetBlue: TrueBlue points expire one full year from the date that they are earned.
Northwest Airlines: Northwest WorldPerks miles expire if none are earned for 3 calendar years.
Southwest Airlines: Rapid Rewards points expire after 2 years.
United Airlines: Mileage Plus miles expire after 36 months of inactivity. Starting December 31, 2007, miles will expire after 18 months of inactivity.
U.S. Airways: Dividend Miles expire after 18 months of inactivity.
How You Can Easily Prevent Mileage Expiration
The way to prevent your miles from lapsing due to inactivity is to simply generate miles-earning activity for each airline that you have an account with. Other using than using a specialized miles-generating credit card rewards like the Starwood Preferred, another relatively easy way is by making a purchase at the airline’s own shopping portal, where you earn miles for each purchase. This will allow you to earn a few miles, enough to reset the inactivity clock. Most of the popular stores such as iTunes, Best Buy, and Circuit City can be found at each airline’s shopping website.
Links to the Major Airlines’ Shopping Websites:
American Airlines: AAdvantage® eShopping
Continental Airlines: ShopOnePass
Delta Airlines: Delta SkyMile Shopping
Northwest Airlines: WorldPerks Mall
United Airlines: Mileage Plus Mall
U.S. Airways: Dividend Miles Shopping Mall
Make Sure Your Purchases Count To Reset the Account Activity Clock
--- To ensure that you receive mileage credit for the purchase made through the airline’s shopping portal, make sure your shopping cart is empty before doing the click through. For example, don’t visit Best Buy, add something to your cart and then revisit Best Buy by clicking through the airline’s shopping portal website. You may not receive mileage credit for the items already in your cart. Visit the store through the airline’s website first before making purchases to receive proper mileage credit.
--- There is no minimum mileage you need to earn to reset the inactivity clock. If you can make a quick purchase for a $1 item that allows you to accrue a few miles towards your frequent flyer plan, that is sufficient to reset and prevent expiration.
--- One way to track your miles and monitor your most recent activity in each of your frequent flyer accounts is by using USA Today’s downloadable MileTracker application.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Too Small Cruise Cabins?
How small is TOO small?????
I read this great article on USA Today, and thought it would be an interesting post....
Today's debate: How small is too small for a cruise ship cabin?
Norwegian Cruise Line created quite a stir this week with the announcement that it's next ship, the Norwegian Epic, would have some interior cabins that take up just 100 square feet.
Just how small is 100 square feet? Consider that even some of the balconies on existing NCL ships are bigger. And even the smallest cabins on most other mass-market cruises ships have at least 35% to 50% more space.
NCL's new budget acommodations, dubbed The Studios, will be clustered around a communal living area on the 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic called the Living Room, giving passengers who book the cabins a bit more room to spread out. Still, it's going to be a tight squeeze.
NCL executives say the maximum-two-person Studios, which the line is designing with a stylish, modern vibe, are aimed at a younger crowd looking for a fun, low-cost way to cruise. There will be 128 of the cabins in all.
Cruise Loggers, what do you think about the idea of super-small cabins for the budget traveler? With the economy tumbling and consumers looking for ways to save on travel, is this a concept that comes at the perfect time? Or is 100 square feet -- the equivalent of a 10 foot by 10 foot space -- just too small to work for a cruiser no matter how low the price?
Tell me your opinion!!!
I read this great article on USA Today, and thought it would be an interesting post....
Today's debate: How small is too small for a cruise ship cabin?
Norwegian Cruise Line created quite a stir this week with the announcement that it's next ship, the Norwegian Epic, would have some interior cabins that take up just 100 square feet.
Just how small is 100 square feet? Consider that even some of the balconies on existing NCL ships are bigger. And even the smallest cabins on most other mass-market cruises ships have at least 35% to 50% more space.
NCL's new budget acommodations, dubbed The Studios, will be clustered around a communal living area on the 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic called the Living Room, giving passengers who book the cabins a bit more room to spread out. Still, it's going to be a tight squeeze.
NCL executives say the maximum-two-person Studios, which the line is designing with a stylish, modern vibe, are aimed at a younger crowd looking for a fun, low-cost way to cruise. There will be 128 of the cabins in all.
Cruise Loggers, what do you think about the idea of super-small cabins for the budget traveler? With the economy tumbling and consumers looking for ways to save on travel, is this a concept that comes at the perfect time? Or is 100 square feet -- the equivalent of a 10 foot by 10 foot space -- just too small to work for a cruiser no matter how low the price?
Tell me your opinion!!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
What is really happening in Mexico? The REAL Story...
Thank you to Gogo WorldWide Vacations for this great info! Dated 3-24-09
We wanted to provide a full overview with respect to the recent update to the US state department alert regarding travel to Mexico There is a ton of misinformation out there, and it is very important that we work to educate you on what the real deal is. GOGO has been working with the Federal and local government to create tools that will help you to provide up- to-date, truthful information to respond to questions you may be receiving.
1. The State Department Alert is NOT NEW. It is only an update to an alert that was published over 12 months ago, and is simply to educate consumers on issues they should be informed on. The State Department has travel alerts published regarding travel to hundreds of countries in any given moment, and they can all be found on the State department website.
· “The US government issued an update to an existing Travel Alert. It has NOT issued a Travel Warning. The difference is significant and as Leslie Bassett, Business Representative of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico “…the alert does not intend in any way to discard Mexico as a tourist destination...”
2. What is the short answer on "What is happening in Mexico? "
NOTHING in the destinations we sell. Basically, the issue is associated to drug cartels and the extra pressure being placed on them by Mexican President Calderon. The areas that are affected are cities on the U.S./Mexico border, as that is the point of entry for drugs coming into the U.S. – these border towns include Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, and Nuevo Laredo. None of the issues are regarding the resort areas, which are safe and sound as you will see from information supplied further on in this email. The areas in questions are not resort areas, we don’t sell any product there, and they are literally THOUSANDS of miles away from the areas we do sell.
We wanted to provide a full overview with respect to the recent update to the US state department alert regarding travel to Mexico There is a ton of misinformation out there, and it is very important that we work to educate you on what the real deal is. GOGO has been working with the Federal and local government to create tools that will help you to provide up- to-date, truthful information to respond to questions you may be receiving.
1. The State Department Alert is NOT NEW. It is only an update to an alert that was published over 12 months ago, and is simply to educate consumers on issues they should be informed on. The State Department has travel alerts published regarding travel to hundreds of countries in any given moment, and they can all be found on the State department website.
· “The US government issued an update to an existing Travel Alert. It has NOT issued a Travel Warning. The difference is significant and as Leslie Bassett, Business Representative of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico “…the alert does not intend in any way to discard Mexico as a tourist destination...”
2. What is the short answer on "What is happening in Mexico? "
NOTHING in the destinations we sell. Basically, the issue is associated to drug cartels and the extra pressure being placed on them by Mexican President Calderon. The areas that are affected are cities on the U.S./Mexico border, as that is the point of entry for drugs coming into the U.S. – these border towns include Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, and Nuevo Laredo. None of the issues are regarding the resort areas, which are safe and sound as you will see from information supplied further on in this email. The areas in questions are not resort areas, we don’t sell any product there, and they are literally THOUSANDS of miles away from the areas we do sell.
See the map below:
3. Want to see feedback from spokespersons in the industry? Here is a great article written by Pauline Frommer..... http://travel.msn.com/Guides/article.aspx?cp-documentid=878358
4. A different perspective - Feedback on Bill O’Reilly’s recent commentary on TV: http://www.latinbusinesschronicle.com/app/article.aspx?id=3189
5. Want to see real time, real customer feedback? We have consumer testimonials from customers that were interviewed in various resort destinations LAST WEEK!
3. Want to see feedback from spokespersons in the industry? Here is a great article written by Pauline Frommer..... http://travel.msn.com/Guides/article.aspx?cp-documentid=878358
4. A different perspective - Feedback on Bill O’Reilly’s recent commentary on TV: http://www.latinbusinesschronicle.com/app/article.aspx?id=3189
5. Want to see real time, real customer feedback? We have consumer testimonials from customers that were interviewed in various resort destinations LAST WEEK!
6. For additional information and to keep updated, please go to http://www.mexico-update.com/ . There is a further enhanced map to the one above, where it shows mileage distances between all resort destinations. Just move your mouse over the map and the information will pop up. There is also information on anything being seen in the news, and the website is updated daily. Perfectly fine to send out to customers as well.
7. Your help is needed! The concern regarding travel to Mexico has been increased by the amount of misinformation that is out there. Please help spread the word on what is really happening and forward this information to anyone who has questions. We need to ensure that correct information is out there.
THIS IS HOW VISITORS ARE ENJOYING CANCUN TODAY.
Testimonial 3 (US Consul in Merida and US Visitors) URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_tPnygd-Ts
Testimonial 7 (US Consul in Merida: difference between Travel Warning and Travel Alert)URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldpeNlfrZak
Testimonial 1 (US visitor)URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_gJY5sbr88
Testimonial 2 (US visitors: couple) URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vV0gxBQ0V1g
Testimonial 8 (US meeting planner)URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_baXLzdEaBM
From the Puerto Vallarta CVB: "We want to share with you the Testimonial Video of the Spring Breakers in Puerto Vallarta filmed this week"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=398XtV2O4WM
Travelers in Playa del Carmen:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJNDzaV0CzQ&feature=channel_page
https://webmail.libgotravel.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.whatisreallyhappeninginmexico.com/ -Various testimonials from all different Mexico Destiations of visitors there this week and last week.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Worst seat onboard the airplane? The Good / Bad / Ugly!!
Have you ever felt that you were the unlucky one that got a horrible seat onboard the airplane?
Last row of the aircraft?
Seat that doesn't recline, for whatever the reason...?
No window in your 'window' seat?
How about that lovely seat right next to the stinky bathroom???
Ever had one of these experiences?
Check out the Seat Guru!!
I have a link to the right called 'Select the BEST Seats'
I think you'll find you'll really like this tool, when selecting your seat onboard the airplane!!
It gives you such things as:
- Detailed seat map graphics.
- In-depth seat specific comments denoting seats with limited recline, reduced legroom, mis-aligned windows.
- Color-coding to help identify superior and substandard seats.
- In-seat power port locations.
- Galley, lavatory, Exit Row and closet locations
Although there are no guarantees with airlines, including a last minute aircraft change.....that's happened to me a time or two...how frustrating!
Anyways, this information will hopefully give you a fighting chance to know some of the good the bad and the ugly seats out there!!!!
Check it out!
Last row of the aircraft?
Seat that doesn't recline, for whatever the reason...?
No window in your 'window' seat?
How about that lovely seat right next to the stinky bathroom???
Ever had one of these experiences?
Check out the Seat Guru!!
I have a link to the right called 'Select the BEST Seats'
I think you'll find you'll really like this tool, when selecting your seat onboard the airplane!!
It gives you such things as:
- Detailed seat map graphics.
- In-depth seat specific comments denoting seats with limited recline, reduced legroom, mis-aligned windows.
- Color-coding to help identify superior and substandard seats.
- In-seat power port locations.
- Galley, lavatory, Exit Row and closet locations
Although there are no guarantees with airlines, including a last minute aircraft change.....that's happened to me a time or two...how frustrating!
Anyways, this information will hopefully give you a fighting chance to know some of the good the bad and the ugly seats out there!!!!
Check it out!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Frequent Flyer Miles with the Northwest-Delta Merger
So many people have been asking what will happen to their frequent flyer miles once the big scary merger takes place. I think we may have some answers.....
I found this link to a conversation on USA Today with some great info for YOU (and me, of course), the traveling people...
Please check it out and tell me your thoughts!
CLICK HERE
I found this link to a conversation on USA Today with some great info for YOU (and me, of course), the traveling people...
Please check it out and tell me your thoughts!
CLICK HERE
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Getting Around the 3-1-1 Rule
This article was published by Leslie Baumann, M.D. (The Skin Guru)
I have read several of her blog entries, and found them to be helpful in many ways.
This blog entry was from May 2007, but I thought my readers might also find it useful!!!
You can click HERE to read the full article
Here are some tips from her column:
1. Yes, toothpaste counts. Put a travel size tube in your plastic bag to start.
2. Remember, the rule is that containers can't be larger than three ounces - so don't try to bring the remaining three ounces of a six-ounce shampoo bottle.
3. Your eye cream can double as a nighttime facial cream (that's what I do when I'm traveling). Similarly, a separate eye cream isn't absolutely necessary - just pat your regular moisturizer around your eye area. Let your products do double duty.
4. Look for stick foundation, rather than liquid, so your makeup doesn't take up valuable space in the plastic bag.
5. Bring lipsticks and lip balms instead of glosses to save even more space.
6. Avoid liquid eyeliners and eye shadows - stick to powders to avoid problems.
7. This is the one time you will hear me recommend a bar soap for the face (but look for the gentlest you can find). These don't need to go in the bag.
8. Save your favorite perfume samples or visit a department-store perfume counter and pick some up before you leave. They're a huge space saver.
9. Going to be outdoors during your trip? Buy sunscreen when you arrive. Not only will you save precious room in your luggage, you'll ensure that the sunscreen is at maximum potency (unlike years-old tubes you might have lying around the house).
10. One thing you should never skimp on when flying is hydration. Look for small spray bottles of water that you can mist on your face during the flight. Follow that up with moisturizer, and you'll lock in moisture to fight the effects of airplane air.
Finally, take inexpensive, small items that you won't mind leaving behind. Flying internationally? Think of it as freeing up room to shop the duty-free stores on your way home.
I have read several of her blog entries, and found them to be helpful in many ways.
This blog entry was from May 2007, but I thought my readers might also find it useful!!!
You can click HERE to read the full article
Here are some tips from her column:
1. Yes, toothpaste counts. Put a travel size tube in your plastic bag to start.
2. Remember, the rule is that containers can't be larger than three ounces - so don't try to bring the remaining three ounces of a six-ounce shampoo bottle.
3. Your eye cream can double as a nighttime facial cream (that's what I do when I'm traveling). Similarly, a separate eye cream isn't absolutely necessary - just pat your regular moisturizer around your eye area. Let your products do double duty.
4. Look for stick foundation, rather than liquid, so your makeup doesn't take up valuable space in the plastic bag.
5. Bring lipsticks and lip balms instead of glosses to save even more space.
6. Avoid liquid eyeliners and eye shadows - stick to powders to avoid problems.
7. This is the one time you will hear me recommend a bar soap for the face (but look for the gentlest you can find). These don't need to go in the bag.
8. Save your favorite perfume samples or visit a department-store perfume counter and pick some up before you leave. They're a huge space saver.
9. Going to be outdoors during your trip? Buy sunscreen when you arrive. Not only will you save precious room in your luggage, you'll ensure that the sunscreen is at maximum potency (unlike years-old tubes you might have lying around the house).
10. One thing you should never skimp on when flying is hydration. Look for small spray bottles of water that you can mist on your face during the flight. Follow that up with moisturizer, and you'll lock in moisture to fight the effects of airplane air.
Finally, take inexpensive, small items that you won't mind leaving behind. Flying internationally? Think of it as freeing up room to shop the duty-free stores on your way home.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Disneyland Sept 2008
I had an amazing time in California, visiting Disneyland and California Adventure Park. I attended a conference here, and they treated us like royalty. We had fabulous motivational speakers!! It really pumps you up!
The slideshow you see here includes lots of pictures.
Pictures of:
-- My hotel room at the Disneyland Hotel
-- Susan Egan (who played Belle on Broadway) absolutely amazing!!
-- Richard Sherman, one of the Sherman Brothers. He and his brother Robert were Walt's right hand men for songs!! His playlist includes: Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, It's a Small World, Parent Trap, The Jungle Book, Winnie the Pooh, and so much more!!!
-- Out and about around the parks
Here is another picture of the Sherman Brothers
The slideshow you see here includes lots of pictures.
Pictures of:
-- My hotel room at the Disneyland Hotel
-- Susan Egan (who played Belle on Broadway) absolutely amazing!!
-- Richard Sherman, one of the Sherman Brothers. He and his brother Robert were Walt's right hand men for songs!! His playlist includes: Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, It's a Small World, Parent Trap, The Jungle Book, Winnie the Pooh, and so much more!!!
-- Out and about around the parks
Here is another picture of the Sherman Brothers
(copyright release wikimedia)
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Client Trip to Lisbon
I had a client that traveled to Lisbon in February 2008. They are very well traveled, and chose Lisbon as a unique place to relax and take a breather from life for a little while.
Here are some pictures they shared with me, and it sure does look like a great place to visit!!!
The narrow streets of Alfama in Lisbon take you back centuries in time.
Just walking around Lisbon is great sightseeing. Even the laundry is beautiful.
Here she is at Fort of Belem, guarding the harbor where Portuguese explorers discovered the new world 500 years ago.
Even teenagers and 20 somethings don’t mind being with parents when in Lisbon. This 21 year old, explores a castle at Sintra.
Hotel recommendation. Solar dos Mouros is just a few steps away from the Castle, Alfama, museums and restaurants. Ask for the river view and get a breathtaking view out your window every day. The 18 room hotel has original paintings and pictures that make it a special treat.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Viva Las Vegas Jan 2008
I have visited Las Vegas many times.
This trip, we stayed at Planet Hollywood. Planet Hollywood used to be The Aladdin Hotel and Casino. It was recently changed over to the new name, and it only has "PH" on the side of the building. This is for sure a hotel to see and be seen at. People get pretty dressed up for a night on the town!!! The location of this hotel is right next to the Paris Hotel, great location mid-strip.
We went to the Blue Man Group show at the Venetian, and that was great! We loved it!
I'm a big Cirque du Soleil fan, and I normally try to get to one of those shows, but we tried this show, and it was very fun.
Planet Hollywood has a spa facility, and it was lovely. It's located upstairs from the casino, so tucked away from the noise of the casino.
They do try to sell you timeshare here, so watch out! We were asked about this numerous times, it got a little annoying.
Every time we visit Las Vegas, we eat at the Harrah's buffet. It's our favorite, and still the best! One thing we noticed when we were at Harrah's this time, we noticed a new bar and grill for Toby Keith, called 'Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill' It looked really fun, but we didn't go inside.
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