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| Travel News & Tips Also visit Tech Tips for the Traveler for great ideas and information for your next vacation. World's Most Exceptional Castle Towns We searched the globe to find the most picturesque fortress towns in the world, places where you're just as likely to want to snap photos of the ramparts as you will street scenes of the locals.
Best of all, these are real towns, so when you're finished viewing the castles' interiors, you'll have a reason to stick around and enjoy the royal backdrop while you experience the local culture.
Read more...
Five Diamond Hotel Winners  AAA has named their selections for the top hotels of 2012. For those that have stayed at a few of them it will come at no surprise that Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton head up the list.
Luxury hotels have survived the economic downturn by offering quality, attention to detail and a personal touch. And if you have booked with us in the past, you know how Donna Salerno Travel can get you tremendous value with added amenities at these great hotels and resorts.
Read more on the AAA list of Five Diamond Hotels
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Baggage & Amenity Fee Calculator Are you concerned about the extra fees incurred for extras like baggage and internet access. You want to make sure that your luggage is under the allowed weight when packing. We already know that we don't want to pay extra money for our bags, but we do. To see how many pieces of luggage you are allowed to bring on, the weight limit & cost for your flight, check here.
Long Layover Comfort ~ Travel Tip
Did you know that at some
airports you can pay a fee (around $50) to access their club lounges where you
can take advantage of the drinks, snacks, internet connection, uncrowded bathrooms and comfy chairs.
If you
have a long layover, this would be a great way for you to relax, take off your
shoes and not stress. It doesn't hurt to ask at the airport/airline if they have this available for
you!
Adventurous Honeymoon Destinations
Are you getting married or know someone who is? Fantastic destination ideas; at an excellent value!  - Tahiti - New Zealand
- Peru
- Alaska
- Botswana
- Mexico
- Virgin Islands
- Thailand
- Italy - Costa Rica
All offer amazing ambiance for your customized honeymoon. Let us help create a fun and relaxing destination for you to begin your life's journey together. Read more...and pass on to friend
Winter Travel Tips  During the busy winter season, travel can be hectic. Here are a few tips to help make your experience more pleasant ~
1) Check that you have all your travel documents, required identification and passport (if required) before leaving home.
2) Leave early whether driving to your destination or heading to the airport, because of unexpected traffic delays.
3) Plan for additional time to allow for airport parking, check-in and security clearance.
4) Pack for the weather at both your departure and arrival destinations. Keep in mind that you might be rerouted to an unexpected airport.
5) Take books, computers and anything else that will get you through any delays and the flight, with your patience intact.
6) Make sure your bags are within the weight limit or you will pay extra.
7) If checking bags, carry-on a bag with your valuables and items for one day; in case of delayed or lost baggage.
8) Check TSA regulations on what can be taken on the flight, especially liquids and metal objects.
9) Take snacks, even for short flights. Even more important if you are traveling with kids.
10) Wait to wrap presents until your arrival, to avoid problems with security checks.
Don't forget that travel is supposed to be fun and enjoyable, so take along some patience and pack some humor with you.
Off Season Travel Deals
Off season travel destinations often mean cooler temperatures. But if warm weather isn't a concern, then you benefit from smaller crowds, lower rates on hotels and airfare; and still get a fabulous travel experience!
Destinations include:
1) Florence , Italy
2) Edinburgh, Scotland
3) Lhasa, Tibet
4) Berlin, Germany
5) Vancouver, Canada
6) Goa, India
Read more ....
American Airlines Bankruptcy  With another legacy airline declaring Chapter 11 bankruptcy recently, the question is the impact on travelers. American has stated that no flights, refunds or Reward Points will be affected.
What is expected is that American will take some time to get their finances sorted and chances are they will be looking for concessions from the unions.
Other airlines went through the same process over the last several years and continue today, so we hope the same remains true of American. But make your future travel plans with the most up to date information available, to avoid any disappointment.
Top Ten Food Markets 
Culinary and wine trips are so fun and popular these days. Not to fret; most hotels we book for you have wonderful first class spa/fitness centers to wear off all those calories. Plus the towns that you visit are fantastic walking/biking cities!
Think Bologna/Italy, Provence/France, Melbourne/Australia, Cape Town/South Africa or San Sebastian/Barcelona Spain.
We can help arrange your dream vacation; tasting and sipping 'the best of the best'. Salute!
Read more for some inspiring ideas...
Flight UpdatesWant to get up to date information on your flight and any delays? Most airlines offer phone, email and text alerts. Here are two websites that also provide you useful flight information, including time of arrival, gate and flight duration: Flight Stats and Flightaware
Searching the net for the best airfares has become easier...or has it? Finding the best rate for air travel these days was supposed to be better with the new google search, but its proving to be less friendly than other sites. The old Orbitz.com standby is popular with clients; as is Kayak.com for those basic domestic air tickets. For international air to the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Africa, etc., (and even Hawaii!) our contract rates have proven to be less expensive than regular published rates you find on the internet; due to our large volume of purchase. We can always include round-trip air with your travel package; unless you choose to use miles or prefer to book on your own. And of course our package/contract air is always covered with your Travel Insurance. Read more ....
 Yum! Apricots from Austria... Truffles from Italy ...
Food markets in Russia... Now we're hungry! Just returning from Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece and Turkey with fantastic food and wines. Turkey is an up and coming destination with some wonderful wine regions and gourmet dining (don't forget the mezes! READ: appetizer size of some very tasty treats!). We can orchestrate gourmet delights, culinary/chef classes and wine time with your next vacation. One of the best ways to experience a new country ~ their local foods! Read more ...
New Consumer Protection Rules now in effect for Airlines  New federal rules to provide greater compensation for bumped fliers, prevent long tarmac delays and require airlines to disclose extra fees are now in effect.
The new rules:
- Airlines must prominently on their websites all ancillary fees, including fees for checking bags, providing meals and canceling reservations.
- Raise compensation for oversold flights to double the price of tickets up to $650 if the arrival at the destination is delayed just a few hours and four times the value of their tickets for longer delays, up to $1,300.
- Impose fines on airlines of up to $27,500 per passenger if they leave an international flight on a tarmac for more than four hours.
More new rules will take effect in 2012.
Top Ten Reasons for Travel Insurance 
1) Family emergency or illness
2) Cancelled flight
3) Loss of employment
4) Lost bags
5) Medical treatment for injury due to accident while traveling6) Medical evacuation7) Replace stolen passport and credit cards8) Named storm forces evacuation of your accommodation9) Act of terrorism
10) Bankruptcy by vendor
Life is unpredictable and travel insurance is important to protect you from incurring the loss of the non-refundable expenses.
Note: It is important to understand what the insurance covers, as it can change with different companies.
Top Ten Things to "Check before you Travel"  1. Identification: You may be refused boarding a plane if you don’t have your government-issued photo ID (license, passport, etc.)
2. Name on Documents: Your plane ticket must match your ID name exactly. If not, you may be refused boarding.
3. Make Copies of Documents: It is easy to replace an e-Ticket, but not so easy to replace a Passport or Credit Cards. Copy important items and email them to yourself or family member who may need to assist. They are easier to replace if you have a copy.
4. Credit Card Validation: Notify your credit card company before you travel outside of your area. With increased fraud, many companies will suspend the card if you don't advise them, especially when traveling outside the country.
5. Insurance: Emergencies happen, so Travel and Medical insurance are good ideas, especially when outside your own country.
6. Parking: Check parking rates ahead of time. It may be less expensive to take a cab or shuttle, as airports have hiked their rates.
7.Airport Security: Check what you can take on the plane, so you don't have to surrender something of value. Check TSA website.
8. Baggage: Take your valuables in your carry-on. At least if the bags are delayed or lost, you will have your most important items.
9. Home Security: Do you need to have someone check your mail, newspapers or look after your pets. It is important on long trips.
10. Leave Early: Better to arrive 1 hour early than 15 minutes late. Leave plenty of time for unexpected delays.
Replacing a lost Passport abroad 
One of the most frustrating experiences you can have is to loose your passport while traveling. The best advice is to copy all your documents, passports, credit cards, driver's license and any other important documents. Then email them to yourself. That way if you loose anything, you can go online and retrieve them. They will be much easier to replace with copies of originals. Read More
Popular Biking Cities 
USA
Boulder, Colorado
Chicago, Illinois
Davis, California
Portland, Oregon
San Francisco, California | EUROPE
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Barcelona, Spain
Berlin, Germany
Copenhagen, Denmark
Paris, France | OTHER
Beijing, China
Cape Town, South Africa
Bogotá, Colombia
Ottawa, Canada
Perth, Australia |
Read More information
Some hotels are not as good as they look online 
Ever book directly with a hotel online and been disappointed? You get there and the room looks nothing like the beautiful pictures you saw on the hotel's website. Well you aren't the only one. There is growing concern that hotels are using old or retouched pictures to present their properties. Then once you check in there is plenty of disappointment and little you can do. The best advice ... use an experienced travel consultant that books only quality hotels, inspects the properties and will be your advocate if you experience any problems. Read More
World Travel Quiz Think you know the world? Test your knowledge and try these fun quizzes from around the world like France, Argentina, China, Australia and more.
Traveler's Rights Improving
By August, new changes mandated by the Department of Transportation will limit tarmac delays, increase payment for bumped flights, reimburse baggage fees for lost luggage and require more disclosure for extra services like ticket changes. Read more ...
Best Credit Cards for Travelers 
Confused by all the credit card benefits? Check out these six cards to see if they fit your lifestyle for the best rewards programs. Read More
Free eBooks
The sales of eBooks are catching up with the paper version. Many people now have a portable digital reader other than their computer. There are many ways to buy eBooks, but did you know there are many titles for free from Project Gutenberg and your local library.
BRIDES magazine recently announced the top 10 honeymoon destinations. 
1. HAWAII
2. FRENCH POLYNESIA 3. FIJI 4. ITALY 5. BALI 6. BERMUDA 7. COSTA RICA 8. GREECE 9. THE BAHAMAS 10. FRANCE Visit our Honeymoon information to start your plans today.
Gas Buddy  Gas Buddy can help you find the cheapest gas in the US or Canada. Or download the App to your Smart Phone when you are on the road.
A printed ticket is no guarantee of an airline seat  When you have a ticket in hand you assume that your airline seat is guaranteed. But that may not always be the situation. In a recent case with Expedia a couple were denied boarding and had to purchase another ticket when Expedia was not able to help them. It was a frustrating and lengthy process which they were not able to resolve without expert help. Read full story Of course, anything can happen when you travel but having your professional and knowledgeable travel consultant act as your personal representative to take care of the problem, allows you a worry free and relaxing vacation. After all, isn't that why you took the vacation to begin with ...
Virtual Art Museum Tours  Explore some of the best art museums from around the world. Discover and view hundreds of artworks at incredible zoom levels, and even create and share your own collection of masterpieces. Art Project by Google allows you to visit the Palace of Versailles, London's National Gallery, Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg ... to name a few. Visit this amazing website before you go on your next vacation or want to see some of the world's most amazing art.
Airline Fee Guide Are you confused about the many different fees that airlines charge. Or how about the frequent Flier miles award programs. Check this guide to answer your questions.
Smartphone Security for the Traveler
WaveSecure offers a good security package that helps you monitor cell phone calls, locate your lost or stolen phone, and track the SIM cards.
You can also protect the data by  backing it up, and locking it down or wipe it remotely, so thieves won't be able to access the contents. The cost is $20 per year, but that is inexpensive piece of mind if you have important information on your phone ... and who doesn't these days.
Gate Guru 
GateGuru is a Smartphone App that transforms the chaotic and unfamiliar airport environment into a more satisfying experience before and after flights.
GateGuru helps you locate the best food, shopping and service options within any airport at the touch of a button.
Peak Season Travel Tips
We all know how hectic travel can be. So here are a few trips to help make your experience a little easier:- leave early to allow for unexpected delays both on the road and at the airport- pack the day before and gather all travel documents, passports, etc- use our Travel Checklist to minimize problems- check smartphone updates for information Travel should be an enjoyable experience, so plan early and have fun!
Seat Guru  Airplanes have different layouts and seat configurations.Seat Guru provides in-depth information and graphic layouts for all the airlines. It shows the seat arrangements, power outlets, galley, washroom locations and more.Next time you are on a long flight, make sure you get the best seat available, not the one that doesn't recline.
Know your Luggage Limits
The cost for extra bags and luggage limits are changing all the time. Avoid paying extra for your bags. Luggage Limits offers up to date information on flights for all destinations and airlines.
Protect your Passport and Credit Cards  A new technology uses radio frequency identification technology for some new credit cards and Passports. It is supposed to speed up the process by just waving your card near the reader, instead of scanning a magnetic strip.  However they can be vulnerable to electronic identity theft. If you see the RFID symbol on your cards, you may want to watch this video and take steps to secure your identification using special sleeves to protect data transfer.
Airfares on the rise
As the economy picks up steam the cost of airfare is rising as well.The three main factors that have been presented are:- higher fuel costs which are passed on to fliers- fewer planes which reduces capacity, but increases demand and airfares- discount airlines costs are rising which puts upward pressure on pricesIf you have been planning a vacation and have been waiting for the right time to book your vacation, this might be a good time as prices continue to rise.View interactive map that shows domestic airport capacity changes.
Google Maps 
Quite possibly the most useful travel app for any phone.For most destinations it takes the place of a regular street map. Besides showing you street names, it tells you nearby places of interest, transportation info, restaurants and so much more. Also, it works with Google's search engine to find just about anything you might be interested in.
TSA security updates with Phone Apps for travelers
The US government has a smartphone App that comes in handy for travelers at home and abroad (no download required). This is especially handy now with new security screening regulations. "My TSA” gives you 24/7 access to information that passengers frequently request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). “My TSA” gives you 24/7 access to information that passengers frequently request with a tool to find out if an item is allowed in your carry-on or checked baggage, information on ID requirements and liquids rules, tips for packing and dressing to speed through security, and real-time operating status for U.S. airports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Another App lets you search, find, and contact the nearest U.S. Embassy anywhere in the world.Check Tech Tips for the Traveler for more information
Airline Codes and how they impact you
There are only a few things that people generally pay attention to on an airline ticket: the flight number, gate number and boarding time. But the single-letter Fare basis code can make a big difference sometimes. A fare basis code divides passengers into classes based on how much they paid and how far out they booked. Some indicate your trip isn't eligible for frequent-flier miles, an upgrade, if the tickets are fully refundable or tell a ticket agent where to rank you on a standby list. Click here for more information
Beware of fraudulent travel dealsThat "good deal " just may be too good to be true. There have been more reports lately of fraud when booking some of the more popular destinations, particularly in Europe. To protect yourself, make sure you are dealing with a reputable company. An even better situation is to get a referral from someone you know that has used the company before, which is true for most forms of business transactions, especially when using the internet. Read more
Packing Tips
There are two kinds of travelers in the world: those who packed light and those who wish they had. To include everything needed in as little space as possible, follow these helpful packing tips compiled by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA members know the techniques of efficient packing and packing tips for all types of travel. PACKING LIST - MAKE A PLAN AND STICK TO IT! Like an architect planning a building, so must you plan the contents of your suitcase by creating a packing list. A packing list eliminates the panic of last-second packing, serves as a handy guide for repacking at the end of the trip, and can be beneficial in the unfortunate event of lost or stolen luggage. When planning your wardrobe, consider the events you will participate in both day and night and write down a possible outfit for each activity. Crosscheck this packing list to determine if one piece can cover multiple occasions. Pick clothes that coordinate well together, based around complimentary colors. Check the weather forecast of the destination and plan accordingly. Also, be sure to know the local traditions, where a t-shirt for dinner could be a serious blunder, or bare shoulders may bar your entrance into such places as St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. For almost all outdoor activities, take pieces that can be layered. Forget dress clothes for every occasion. The world at large has relaxed its dress code, showing almost universal leniency to tourists. Dark colors - a black dress or blue jacket - will get you through most dinners and plays.
The 411 on Electronic Cruise Documents
Several major cruise lines—including Azamara Club Cruises and Celebrity Cruises—are no longer sending passengers their physical ticket and travel details before the voyage, turning instead to electronic cruise documents called eDocs.
eDocs are personalized electronic documents featuring a detailed summary of your cruise vacation that also acts as your boarding pass. These interactive, Web-based documents include important pre-cruise information, such as embarkation details, your day-by-day itinerary, our agency’s contact details, your flight details and much more.
The beauty of eDocs—besides their positive environmental impact and 24/7 accessibility—is their interactivity. They contain links that you can click on to quickly and easily discover more information about onboard programs, destinations and spa services. Also, eDocs make it a breeze to share your cruise information, such as your exciting itinerary, to your friends and family with just a few clicks of the mouse. Once your booking with one of these cruise lines has been finalized, your eDoc will be emailed to you as early as 49 days prior to sailing. The eDoc will contain precise directions on which pages to print out for your boarding pass. If you do not have access to a printer, you have the option to have your cruise documents mailed to you (though some cruise lines charge a small fee for this service).
Another new convenience that will save you time at the departure pier is the eDocs luggage tag system. Through this new program, you will be mailed up to eight pre-printed, color-coded, self-adhesive luggage tags that, once affixed to your pieces, will streamline the onboard luggage sorting and delivery process. If you have any further questions about eDocs, please give me a call! PH: 888-777-7820
1) Paris
2) Rome
3) Florence
4) New York
5) New Orleans
6) Barcelona
7) San Francisco
8) Milan
9) Morocco
10) Madrid
Top 10 Wine Regions
1) Tuscany
2) Bordeaux
3) Napa Valley
4) Champagne
5) Loire Valley
6) Cote - D'or
7) Sicily
8) Cape Winelands
9) Barossa Valley
10) Marlborough
Be careful of extra charges when booking online
Some of the online bookings engines have been aggressive in pushing extra charges on to consumers and are requiring consumers to "deselect" options, so as not to be charged. Most domestic flights are now booked online and the process can become automatic if you fly often, but check to make sure you are aware of AND want the choices you are being charged for.
Are you paying big Credit Card charges while traveling?
If you are concerned about added costs, and lets face it, who isn't these days; then try to prepay as much of your trip as possible to avoid Foreign Transaction Fees on your credit card. Although these fees may seem small, they can definitely add up if you plan on paying for the "big ticket" items like transportation and accommodations while in a foreign country. Visa and MasterCard charge 1% of purchases as a foreign transaction fee. Most issuing banks however, add an additional 1 or 2 %, leaving your total fee at 2 to 3 percent. Capital One is one of the few big card issuers without a foreign transaction fee. The 1 percent MasterCard and Visa fee is still processed, but Capital One absorbs the fee instead of passing it on to you.Check with your card issuer for updated information on Foreign Transaction Fees and try to prepay the majority of travel costs before you go.
Self-Boarding on Airlines is coming 
Continental Airlines has begun testing Self-Boarding at Houston airport without a gate agent. Passengers swipe their boarding pass at a gate kiosk, much like the "boarding pass" process.Other countries have been using the system for some flights when the security checks have already been dealt with, in an effort to speed up the process. Gate agents will be freed up to handle more important tasks like ticket changes, seat upgrades, etc.
Private information isn't safe from the Government
A recent court ruling determined that your laptop, cellphone, camera and any other electronic gadget can be seized and inspected without a search warrant or probable cause when entering the country. At the border, Homeland Security does not have to abide by the 4th Amendment, which guarantees the right of Americans from unreasonable and unwarranted government intrusion. This may also include an area within 100 miles of the border.Your property could be held for up to 30 days. Although the searches are rare, it makes sense to play it safe by making a backup of any important data and also to consider what you keep stored that might be of a sensitive nature.
Passport and Visa Fees increase
The U.S. State Department on July 13, 2010 increased the cost for visas, passports and other consular services, some by more than $300, to reflect what the department determined is the true cost to provide such services.For an adult passport, the State Department will begin charging $110 to $35 more than the current price, plus a $25 execution fee, which is not retained by the department. Meanwhile, the cost for some visas will jump by even greater amount. For example, an employment-based immigrant visa will cost $720 under the new pricing scheme, compared with the previous $355.It is expected that fees from most government agencies will be increasing in the months ahead, as the government seeks to raise revenue.
Make your Vacation Tax Deductible 
You can deduct many of the travel expenses if you are engaged in charitable work. There are rules that you must follow, but with a little planning you can make your trip both rewarding and cost free. Its even better if you are traveling far from home, as the IRS considers your expenses to travel, not your time, to be deductible. Read more information on IRS Publication 526.
Read a related article in the Los Angeles Times for more information.
Spa Tips 
There is nothing quite like a visit to the spa for total relaxation. Many luxury hotels and resorts have spent the last decade upgrading their spas and with the slower economy are now offering incredible values for their services.For those that haven't been to a spa, here are a few tips to make your visit more pleasurable:Plan Ahead – You have a better chance of choosing your preferred time and therapist, if you make your appointment well in advance. Go Early - Many spas have exercise facilities, steam rooms, sauna and hot tubs for your use, often without additional cost. Why not spend more time before and after your treatment enjoying the total experience.Preparation - Don't drink too much before your treatment, so you can relax. But make sure that drink plenty of water or refreshing beverage after, as most treatments will require you to re-hydrate your muscles.During the Treatment - Relax and enjoy the experience. Chose either a male or female masseuse, whichever makes you more comfortable. Wearing under clothes is a personal choice, but if going nude, know that you will only be exposed to the areas being worked on.
Travel Insurance 
If the past few years have taught us anything, it is that it is important to get travel insurance when traveling abroad and when the cost of your trip is significant. Taking a domestic flight may be a tolerable risk for most people but consider what happens when you plan a trip abroad and your trip is canceled because of an unexpected family problem, sickness, or natural catastrophe. Travel insurance will cover the costs of your loss. Without it, you may be losing the entire cost of your trip.
Packing your suitcase 
Folded clothing takes up too much space. Instead tightly rolling everything, which also minimizes wrinkling. A typical suitcase will hold more clothes for longer trips.
See how this is done.
Fitness on the Fly Missing workouts while traveling is a thing of the past! Pack those gym shoes and keep your fitness pace active.  An early morning walk/jog is a fantastic way to begin your mornings while on vacation. Stretching those muscles and having a cardio balance to the leisurely walking and eating thru your holiday is a great way to stay in shape. Or even begin a new, healthier routine for yourself. Once you start the habit, it actually provides more strength and stamina for your holiday and when you return home! |
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Experts at the President's Council on Physical Fitness agree that as little as 20 minutes of physical activity per day, can keep energy levels up and fight fatigue in adults. Think of it - more energy for your enjoyment during your vacation!
Most hotels have fitness centers or online workouts that you can do in the privacy of your hotel room (ie; Hyatt Hotels is an excellent example). Ask your fitness instructor before you depart, if they have an online version of their routine (if you are packing a laptop or Smartphone) or if they can recommend a DVD that you can pack and use during your trip. A good over all body workout is Pilates. A great way to stay flexible and strong. Check www.OceansidePilates.com and view the online version today. | |
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