Save some money by taking along the CityPass if you are traveling to: Atlanta Boston Hollywood New York Southern California Chicago Houston San Francisco Philadelphia Seattle Toronto The CityPass is a little ticket booklet that can get you VIP perks, avoid long box-office lines and upgrades at no extra charge. Skip a line or get a complimentary audio tour. The CityPass can get you up [...] [...more]
The CityPass is a little ticket booklet that can get you VIP perks, avoid long box-office lines and upgrades at no extra charge. Skip a line or get a complimentary audio tour. The CityPass can get you up to 50% off of admission to some of the best and major attractions in North America including Chicago’s Field Museum, Statue of Liberty, Disneyland and Seattle’s Space Needle. The CityPass has no blackout dates and is available at any CityPass attraction or online at Citypass.com.
The GoCar is a three-wheel yellow convertible that follows GPS-guided audio tours around the city. These GoCar Tours are sightseeing transporters that started in San Francisco, San Diego and Miami and then expanded to Lisbon, Barcelona and Valencia. Go Car Audio Tours Miami The audio tours are available in six different languages and the car accommodates two people. [...] [...more]
The GoCar is a three-wheel yellow convertible that follows GPS-guided audio tours around the city.
These GoCar Tours are sightseeing transporters that started in San Francisco, San Diego and Miami and then expanded to Lisbon, Barcelona and Valencia.
Go Car Audio Tours Miami
The audio tours are available in six different languages and the car accommodates two people. The GoCar Tours give very clear directions and useful commentary.
In order to rent one of these innovative forms of audio tours, all you need is a valid driver’s license and a vehicle briefing. For more information GoCar Tours of Spain, visit www.gocartours.es.
A vacation villa is a great value in itself. However, there are ways in which you can increase the value of a holiday villa to your advantage. Pick your destination wisely In some regions and seasons, vacation villas rates may be more flexible and will allow you to pay only a fraction of the price if your [...] [...more]
A vacation villa is a great value in itself. However, there are ways in which you can increase the value of a holiday villa to your advantage.
Pick your destination wisely
In some regions and seasons, vacation villas rates may be more flexible and will allow you to pay only a fraction of the price if your group is not large enough to occupy the entire property.
Stay in a place where there is an excess of vacation villas and where the rental season is long. Destinations with a longer rental season, such as the Caribbean, offer a great value of a holiday villa than vacation villas in destinations with shorter rental seasons, such as Italy.
Go where the U.S. dollar is strong such as Costa Rica or New Zealand. Some destinations charge more for the cost of labor (such as personal chefs) in your vacation villa; such places include Jamaica or Barbados.
Rental agents who work directly with vacation villa owners rather than managers
When you or your rental agent is doing business directly with the property owner, it is a potential for more flexible rates and more value of a holiday villa. Property managers tend to work with a standard rate, whereas owners can decide to lower the price of their villas if they are trying to rent their property more often.
Prioritize the list of features you want
You should differentiate between the features and amenities that you simply cannot live without versus those that you are willing to sacrifice. Then, ask your rental agent which amenities are the most expensive ones at your particular destination. The costliness of amenities varies from destination to destination.
Look into vacation villas that are part of a set that share amenities
Villas that come in a set often come with their own pools and terrace but share the cost of staff and other amenities bringing down the total cost.
Hotel prices can vary dramatically between sources. When searching for the best hotel deals, you can start at aggregator sites such as kayak.com. Do not forget to check third-party travel websites such as Expedia.com or Orbitz.com; these often offer rare best hotel deals that are unheard of. Lastly, you may not want to skip a [...] [...more]
Hotel prices can vary dramatically between sources. When searching for the best hotel deals, you can start at aggregator sites such as kayak.com. Do not forget to check third-party travel websites such as Expedia.com or Orbitz.com; these often offer rare best hotel deals that are unheard of. Lastly, you may not want to skip a call to a reservationist or travel agent; they may know of non-internet best hotel deals that you just can’t pass up. A back-up option that is always available is to reserve holiday rentals. Holiday rentals are available all over the world and offer additional space and privacy for a more economical cost.
It is getting increasingly more difficult for American’s to make credit card transactions overseas. American credit cards run on the standard magnetic-stripe technology while many foreign countries have made a shift toward chip-based cards commonly referred to as chip-and-PIN cards because users enter their PIN rather than sign. Some merchants and kiosks are rejecting credit [...] [...more]
It is getting increasingly more difficult for American’s to make credit card transactions overseas. American credit cards run on the standard magnetic-stripe technology while many foreign countries have made a shift toward chip-based cards commonly referred to as chip-and-PIN cards because users enter their PIN rather than sign. Some merchants and kiosks are rejecting credit cards of magnetic-strip technology because they lack the embedded microprocessor chip that processes and stores information. The reason behind this shift in credit card technologies is because the chip-and-PIN system offers extra protection against theft and fraud. More and more countries are moving toward the chip-and-PIN system, which will increase the difficulty for Americans trying to make credit card transactions overseas. Currently, twenty-two countries including much of Europe, Mexico, Japan and Brazil already adopted the technology. Another 50 countries or so are in the process of the move to the technology including India, China and most of Latin America. This past year, Canada started to offer chip-and-PIN cards and has plans to stop accepting magnetic-strip credit cards at ATM’s after 2012 and at point-of-sale terminals after 2015. Right now, most store or restaurant merchants as well as ATM’s still have credit card terminals that can read magnetic-stripe cards. Americans have experience credit card rejection at automated ticket kiosks at train stations, parking garages, gas pumps and others. The alternative, to carry around cash, is not a secure one.
The United States banking industry does not have any immediate plans to make the switch over to chip-and-PIN technology. One reason is because fraud issues are not as prevalent here as in other countries and because the conversion would be expensive (approximately $5.5 billion). The chip-and-PIN cards are different from the American credit cards that have the radio frequency chip which you can just wave in front of a scanner rather than swipe your card. Currently, Travelex is working on a chip-and-PIN card for Americans where you can load with up to 6,000 Euros or £4,500 (about $9,000). Still, that solution will not go into effect for at least another year. Until that happens, the most an American traveler can do is insist that the merchant try to swipe their credit card anyway when trying to complete credit card transactions overseas. The terminal may be able to read your card.
Many pet owners treat them like children and see them as a very important part of the family. That being said, many pet owners who plan to take their pooch along on a flight do not feel comfortable with the pet being treated and stored as cargo. Though flying with pets on airplanes has become [...] [...more]
Many pet owners treat them like children and see them as a very important part of the family. That being said, many pet owners who plan to take their pooch along on a flight do not feel comfortable with the pet being treated and stored as cargo. Though flying with pets on airplanes has become more common in recent years, airlines vary in degrees of strict regulations and vary widely on prices. Some airlines are more pet-friendly than others. Some only allow passengers flying with pets in the cabin while others may only allow them to be checked-in as cargo.
If you are flying with pets in the cabin, their kennel must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you and the animal must be able to stand and turn around inside the kennel. Usually, this is possible for pets up to 20 lbs. Most airlines allow passengers flying with pets in the cabin but have a maximum number allowed per flight. If you are flying with pets, make sure to reserve your space (and your pet’s) on the flight as early as possible.
Pet Airways
The recently launched Pet Airways is a pets-only airline. It charges an introductory fare of $150. Regular one-way trips cost $250.
AirTran
Only allows pets to fly in the cabin. At $69, it charges the least of the airlines that allow pets to fly in-cabin.
Spirit
Only allows pets to fly in the cabin.
JetBlue
Only allows pets to fly in the cabin. This is the only airline that allows pets to ride in the cabin on international flights. Also, you earn extra frequent flier points when you fly with your pet.
US Airways
Usually only allows pets to travel in the cabin but they do allow pets to be checked in as baggage for nonstop shuttle flights between New York, Boston and Washington, D.C.
American Airlines
Only allows cats and dogs and they must be kept in their carrier at all times. Pets checked in as cargo costs $150.
Delta
Allows pets in the cabin for $150. For pets checked in as cargo, it is one of the most expensive airlines (along with Northwest) at $275.
Northwest
Allows pets in the cabin for $150. For pets checked in as cargo, it is one of the most expensive airlines (along with Delta) at $275.
Alaska Airlines
One of the least expensive airlines to check in pets as cargo at $100.
Midwest
One of the least expensive airlines to check in pets as cargo at $100.
Frontier
Only allows pets to board as checked baggage. Charges between $100 to $200 to check in pets as cargo.
Southwest
Does not allow pets at all (except for service animals).
Traveling nowadays in this economy involves breaking the piggy bank and gathering up our pennies. Before you give up on traveling, you might want to cast your attention on new Hotel trends indicating a rise in Affordable Micro-Hotels, pod hotels, and new upscale hostels. One of the best of affordable Micro-Hotels in the world, BASE2STAY, London [...] [...more]
Traveling nowadays in this economy involves breaking the piggy bank and gathering up our pennies. Before you give up on traveling, you might want to cast your attention on new Hotel trends indicating a rise in Affordable Micro-Hotels, pod hotels, and new upscale hostels.
One of the best of affordable Micro-Hotels in the world, BASE2STAY, London has a designer touch with clean lines, white linens and even a kitchenette! Prices start from $134. Wwww.base2stay.com
Another great example, is LISBON LIVING LOUNGE HOSTEL, in Lisbon, Portugal which has comfortable room each decorated by one of 17 different artists. Lisbon lounge also serves a delicious three-course meal at night, and entertains guest on walking tours. And lastly it was voted one of the world’s cleanest hostels in 2008. Prices start from $25. www.lisbonloungehostel.com
Another hostel which will make you pay attention to these hotel trends is STAY, Los Angeles. Here you have the choice of a private room and bath. You’ll find plenty of color in the décor, as well an on-site art gallery, computer room, and soon enough a lobby bar. The amount of pennies you need to allocate to the hotel room, or your biggest expense, is not as much as you might think thanks to hotel trends such as the increase in affordable Micro-Hotels. After your stay you will have enjoyed quality lodging for a bargain price.
Here are the best websites to post photographs and share your holidays online. Let your friends and family see what it is like staying in that hotel room, or in one of those holiday rentals. They are each different and listed according to what each of them are best for. Flickr.com is the most widely known [...] [...more]
Here are the best websites to post photographs and share your holidays online. Let your friends and family see what it is like staying in that hotel room, or in one of those holiday rentals. They are each different and listed according to what each of them are best for.
Flickr.com is the most widely known and one of the simplest photo-sharing websites to use. It is free and allows for plenty of uploads. There are also many easy to use features such as labeling your photos.
photobucket.com is known for its easy sharing and editing features which everyone can use. Features like the Auto fix button which corrects the shots, and makes you want to display your holidays online. There are also many things that you and friends can order, such as prints and personalized mugs.
On facebook.com the main feature is the “tag” feature where you can link the photos to your “facebook friends.” You can upload an unlimited amount of pictures and set privacy settings so that you share your holidays online only with all the people you know, and not random strangers. It is the only website on this list that does not allow your friends to order prints.
Kodakgallery.co.uk is a quality user-friendly website with great editing tools and simple ways to share your pictures. You can also buy many gifts such as prints, cards, photobooks, etc.
fotki.com is as basic as it gets where you can easily order and share lots of prints (you do not need to create an account).
photobox.co.uk this website is most used for sharing special occasions. You can not only upload your photos, but create slideshows to share through a link to friends. You have plenty of options for creating gifts, albeit a little bit more expensive then other websites.
Share your holidays online now. If you do not have any photographs, then book holiday rentals in your favorite city to create memories and share them with friends.
For Smart Travel, you will need these Top 10 Travel Websites. Here is a list of the websites you would have lost your time on the internet trying to find: Travelsupermarket.com will compare and pick out the best deals from hotel groups and web discounters, and make it easy for you to choose. On Latedeals.com you [...] [...more]
For Smart Travel, you will need these Top 10 Travel Websites. Here is a list of the websites you would have lost your time on the internet trying to find:
Travelsupermarket.com will compare and pick out the best deals from hotel groups and web discounters, and make it easy for you to choose. On Latedeals.com you will find all the offloaded rooms at big discounts.
Geobeats.com is crucial for smart travel as it will allow you to see high quality videos consisting of locals sharing knowledge and advice about their cities. Spottedbylocals or Trustedplaces.com also provide great local knowledge but through text.
On Airbnd.com you will see rooms to rent as well as maps, views, and testimonials of former guests. Couchsurfing.com is its rival.
Joobili.com is a sleek website that displays and interactively suggests cultural and sporting events all around Europe. You can also go to this classic of the top ten travel websites for a guide of worldwide events: Whatsonwhen.com
TheAA.com will ensure smart travel by pointing very important information, such as local driving laws that you will need if you are using a car. Also visit Greenflag.com
No top 10 travel websites list is complete without one dedicated to going out! Worldsbestbars.com has got you covered for that. You can also try Timeout.com for hip restaurants, clubs and live music.
Weather2travel.com will tell when to visit which city or country. You can also visit Worldweather.wmno.int
Isango.com will give you a wide range of activities for smart travel and help you plan them on your won cities and Tourdust.com will give you plenty of options for adventure tours.
Kayak.co.uk is the biggest travel search engine in the world where booking cheap flights is made easy. Skyscanner.net and Chepaflights.com are also good places to look. It is perhaps the most important of the top 10 travel websites.
Smart Travel means knowing how to read reviews. You can go on TripAdvisor.co.uk to find reviews from the general public or you can go i-escape.com for reviews given by professionals.
Vacations are meant to be a relaxing escape from tedious and undesirable aspects of real life. That cannot be done if you are made to deal with inconveniences and such pertaining to your flight or hotel or vacation rentals stay. In order to know what exactly you could expect, ready your holiday description carefully before [...] [...more]
Vacations are meant to be a relaxing escape from tedious and undesirable aspects of real life. That cannot be done if you are made to deal with inconveniences and such pertaining to your flight or hotel or vacation rentals stay. In order to know what exactly you could expect, ready your holiday description carefully before setting off. If possible, bring a copy of the brochure or key website pages. Also, know what you are legally due if an inconvenience arises. For example, if your flight is cancelled, the airline is required to re-route you or offer a refund. Compensation for complications related to a hotel depends on the website or contract small print.
Act Fast
If you come across any unpleasant issues that may prevent you from enjoying your trip, it is best that you speak up and immediately. Give the staff a chance to fix the problem to appease you. Plus, if you do not mention anything soon after, it will inconvenience your case later. Before discussing the issue with someone, decide on your desired outcome. That way, you can keep focused and communicate clearly. Make sure to be reasonable. A full room change is not an appropriate request for a stained bed sheet.
Do Not Get Worked Up
Elect the calmest and most assertive person of your group to make the complaint. The idea is to be firm but not upset. Yelling will not get you anywhere. If you turn down a reasonable offer made to fix your issue, it will inconvenience your future case.
Write Everything Down
If, for whatever reason, it seems that the problem will not be resolved on the spot, make record of what is said, when and by whom. If possible, back up your notes with evidence such as photos and/or names and numbers of other guests who feel the same.
Work Your Way Up the Hierarchy
Start with a front desk receptionist. If you do not find a resolution in that approach, ask to speak to the general manager. If that doesn’t work, speak to the resort manager; and if that still doesn’t work, contact the company’s head office.
Write a Letter
If the problem was not resolved during your vacation, write a letter to someone of authority in the matter within 2 weeks. Describe how you want to be compensated for the inconvenience and ask for something that is proportional to the damage done.
Take it to Small Claims Court
If all the aforementioned approaches do not get you anywhere, take your case to small claims court where you can present your case in person and affordably.
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