quarta-feira, 29 de dezembro de 2010

Aspen Ski Vacations

Aspen Mountain has long been known as the playpen
of the rich and famous – and it is. But it is also a
great place to take a family ski vacation. Christmas
in Aspen is especially wonderful! Aspen Mountain
rises above the town of Aspen, with a top elevation
of 11215 feet and a vertical drop of 3269 feet. There
are 76 trails suitable for beginners, intermediates,
and experts, accessible by eight lifts, including
seven chair lifts and one cable car line.
While Aspen has much to offer skiers, as well as
those who enjoy the night life in a ski town, you
should expect lots of crowds and lift lines on the
slopes. Again, this is the playpen of the rich and
famous, and many people choose this ski vacation
spot simply for that reason – as well as for the great
runs and nightlife.
There are numerous places to stay in and around
Aspen, with more than 100 restaurants to choose
from as well. Ski instructions and equipment rental
are abundant in the area, and snowboarders are
welcome.

Art Museums still manage to move the Masses

With around 65 museums, it's no wonder that it is quite difficult to narrow down the choices and select the San Francisco museum that you absolutely must visit while vacationing here. The good news is that it is quite possible to narrow down the choices according to your personal preferences. Museums are a great way to discover the history, the art, and the future of a city. If that city gives a great amount of effort into building great places of learning about the art, music, history, and future of said city, then that city has a bright future ahead of it.
Art is something that is becoming more and more often overlooked as budget cuts hit school curriculums and great emphasis is placed on learning specific facts and details rather than the learning process, but art is a vitally important component of societal development. Think about it, the one thing that survives the generations of old and appears in museum today is most often art of some sort. Art is a way of expressing who we are, what we dream, and where we hope we are going. If we take the art from our lives, we are stifling our societies and risking our progeny.
In case you haven't guessed, I'm a little passionate about art and feel that art museums are an integral component not only of preserving our pasts but also of insuring our futures. The first art museum I would like to mention is of particular interest here because not only does it showcases artists that are local to the San Francisco area but it also deals with visual arts, performing arts, and film and video. The name of this museum is: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts and I seriously recommend that you take a moment or two out of your busy vacation time be devoted to taking a look around this great center for visual and performing arts.  
Art comes in many shapes and sizes and few places showcase it as well as the de Young Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco. From painting to sculptures to quilts this museum offers some fantastic collections of art as well as offering excellent exhibitions that rotate throughout the year. Give your senses a feast of color, light, and texture by visiting the de Young.
If you have the time, you really should check out The Diego Rivera Mural Project. This project is about the necessity of blending all of the cultures and histories that make Americans American into one unified work of art. By using the historical artistic styles of the Indian, the Eskimo, and the Mexican and blending them a style will emerge that is Pan American Unity. While some may find the ideals behind it a bit lofty (I find them applaudable), it is impossible to deny that the mural itself is an impressive work of art. While this is not a museum, I really feel that this is an important work of art that is definitely worth mentioning.
Whether you have a deep and abiding passion for art or not, it's hard to deny the power that art has to move and inspire people. For that reason alone I think it is important that we try to cultivate a love of art or at the very least an education about art within our children, museum exhibits are an excellent method of achieving that goal.

Are Your Beauty Supplies Banned?

Are you a female who is about to catch a flight?  Whether you are just going to visit family, are planning to take a vacation, or you have a business meeting to attend, there is a good chance that you will be brining along beauty supplies. In fact, some of these supplies you may even want to carry with you at all times, but can you?  If you weren’t already aware, there are a number of different beauty supplies that are prohibited from being stored in your carryon luggage. Before you head to the airport, you are encouraged to famialrize yourself with these items. 
With the recent ban on liquids, you will find that a number of your beauty supply products are automatically eliminated from being allowed in your carryon luggage.  These items most commonly include liquid deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioners, hand sanitizers, and all liquid hair products.  Although it may be inconvenient for you, you will also find that the majority of your makeup supplies are banned from carryon luggage bags.  All of these banned items include liquid based formulas, such as liquid foundation, liquid skincare creams, liquid mascara, and liquid lip products. 
Although a large number of liquid beauty supplies are prohibited from being stored in carryon luggage bags, there are a few exceptions.  These liquid exceptions include prescriptions that are prescribed to you and certain eye care products.  If you are wearing your contacts or have eye problems, you are allowed to carry small amounts of eye drops or saline solution with you.  These items must be no larger than four ounces each. 
Although a large number of beauty supplies are liquid based, there are others that are not.  For instance, most nail care products, expect for nail polish or nail polish remover, are liquid free.  By the way, it is important to note that both nail polish and nail polish remover are included in the, above mentioned, liquid ban. Nail care items that you can bring aboard an airplane with you, in your carryon luggage, including nail clippers, nail cuticle cutters, and nail files. 
If you need to carry any other beauty products with you, it is likely that you they will focus on eye care. As previously mentioned, small amounts of saline solution and eye drops are permitted onboard an airplane, in your carryon luggage.  Although you may think it is banned, you are permitted to carry eye glass repair kits with you. These kits are allowed, despite the fact they do have a small number of sharp objects in them. 
Now that you know which common beauty supplies or products are allowed or are not allowed to be stored in your carryon luggage, you can pack accordingly.  It is important that you keep this list in mind. If you are planning on wearing makeup, you will want to apply it before you leave and store the rest in your bags that will be checked. In the event that you try to sneak, the above mentioned, prohibited items into your bag, you may be at risk for being detained by airport security. 
Although there is a chance that you may be detained by airport security or miss your flight, due to being tied up at a security checkpoint, you will find that those are the most serious consequences. In the event that you are cooperative with airport security and other airport staff, you will likely just have your banned beauty items confiscated.  As a woman, you should know that many of these items do not come cheap. Therefore, instead of wasting your hard earned money, you are advised to think wisely and plan ahead.

Are You on The No-Fly List? What You Can Do

Each day, millions of Americas board an airplane. Although many of those individuals do not have a problem, others do. One of those problems may involve the no-fly list. While the no-fly list was designed to make air travel safer, there are some instances when the wrong individuals have been targeted. These mistakes often include mistaken identities or misspelled names.  Despite what you are told or may think, there are ways that you can get yourself off of the no-fly list.
Although you can get your name off the no-fly list, it is important to remember that it will not happen overnight.  In fact, if you are notified that your name is on the no-fly list at the airport, it is almost a guarantee that you will not be able to board your plane.  Since airport security cannot rely on your word, they will likely not allow you to proceed any further.  In fact, you may even be detained a short period of time by airport security.  Once you are released, you can begin taking the steps needed to have your name removed from the no-fly list.
The first step in getting your name off the no-fly list is to the contact the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once you are notified that your name is on the no-fly list, you should be provided with the contact information for the TSA.  If you are not provided with this information, you can easily obtain the telephone number needed to directly contact the administration by visiting their online website.  That online website can be found at http://www.tsa.gov/.  Once you have made contact with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you will be provided with instructions on what to do next. Those instructions will likely include filling out a form that should be mailed to you.
In addition to filling out the proper paperwork, you will also be asked to submit identification.  In fact, you will need to submit more than one piece of identification Most travelers need three different items.  Accepted items include a driver’s license, a government identification card, a military card, a social security card, a voter registration card, a passport, a visa, or a birth certificate.  Although only three pieces of identification are required, you may want to have additional identification documents on hand, just in case.  After you have collected these items, they will need to be notarized by the proper officials. 
After you have submitted all of the required documents, the process should begin, which will result in your name being removed from the no-fly list.  This process could take as little as a few weeks, but it could take months.  You are advised against making any travel plans until you receive confirmation that your name has officially been removed from the no-fly list.  Once your name has been removed, all airlines will be notified of this removal. This should mean that you are now able to purchase airline tickets and make travel plans. 
In addition to actually having your name on no-fly list, namely due to a mistake, there is a chance that someone else with the same name as you could be on the no-fly list. Despite the fact that you are not the one on the no-fly list, you may experience some problems.  For that reason, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has developed a traveler verification program.  In the event that you are commonly mistaken for someone else, it may be a good idea to register for that program.  Information on this helpful program can be found by visiting the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s online website.  As previously mentioned, that website can be found at http://www.tsa.gov/.
Although getting off the no-fly list may seem like a long and frustration task, it is something that you will want to do. Chances are your name will not magically disappear from the list. This means that if you are planning on traveling, now or in the near future, you will want to take the appropriate steps to ensure that you will make it to your intended destination.

Are Air Travel Rules Different Between Airports

Are you a frequent flyer?  If so, there is a good chance that you know all of the air travel rules.  Do you?  If so, do you know that air travel rules can vary between airports?  Most travelers, especially those that tend to fly out of the same airports, are unaware that the rules are different. 
When understanding air travel, it is important to remember that there are two main sets of rules.  One set of rules are often imposed by the federal government.  These restrictions, such as the bans on sharp objects or certain liquids, must be upheld in all airports in the United States.  Despite these types of bans and air travel rules, you may also find that specific airports have implemented their own rules and restrictions. Although it is not required, a number of them have. 
Whether you are a first time flyer or a frequent flyer, who is flying out of a new airport, you are advised to famialrize yourself with the air travel rules that are implemented in all airports, as well as the ones that are implemented individually, by each airport.  The rules that can be found in each airport are just as important as the rules that are widespread. For this reason, it is important that you famialrize yourself with them. This can be done a number of different ways.
Perhaps, the best way to learn airport rules is by visiting the website of the airport in which you will be flying out of. If you do not already know the address of that website, you can easily find it out by performing a standard internet search. You should perform your search with the name of the airport in question.  Once at the website’s main page, you should be able to find information on air travel rules.  You are encouraged to fully read those rules and take note of what you see; it may come in useful later on.   
As nice as it is to get information online, you are advised to be careful with what you find.  Most airports update their online websites on a regular basis, but not all do.  You will want to be on the lookout for outdated information. In addition to outdated information, there is a good chance that you will not find anything at all.  If your airport’s online website does not have any information on air travel safety and rules, it does not necessarily mean these rules do not exist.  However, it does mean that you may have to obtain the information elsewhere, such as directly from the airport.
When trying to contact an airport, you will have a number of different options.  If you are flying out of a local airport, it is likely that you can get the airport’s contact information for your local phone book. If not, you should be able to obtain it online.  Regardless of where you get your information from, you should find that each airport has a number of different telephone numbers listed.  In the event that there is not a phone number listed specifically for information on air travel rules, you will want to contact the customer service department.  Most airline representatives would be more than willing to answer all of your questions, including those on airport rules and restrictions.
In addition to familiarizing yourself with the airport that you will be flying in and out of, it is also a good idea to examine your airline.  Like many airports, many airlines have implemented their own air travel rules, guidelines, and restrictions.  For instance, there are some airlines that have specific rules on the flying with pets and others that are more flexible.  Before leaving for the airport, it is important that you determine whether or not these additional air travel rules exist.
When flying out of a new airport or on a new airline, the “but the other airline allowed it,” excuse will not work. That is why, to prevent confusion or confrontation, you are advised to know what rules and restrictions each airport and airline has, if any.

Angel Island is a Diversion from the Ordinary

Whether you are a true nature lover or simply enjoy the thrill of an educational field trip, you will find both the wonders of nature and a deep sense of history while visiting Angel Island. In fact, I would suggest making Angel Island a must see destination while visiting San Francisco.
In the great city of San Francisco, which has so much to offer visitors, it's almost impossible to find that one thing that will be truly special and unique about your trip. Angel Island is just that thing. Wherever your interests lie, there is something that will attract the attention of people of all ages, economic situations, and other walks of life. If you can't find something that will interest you here, you really should rethink your interests.
For the nature lovers there is plenty of interest in way of plant life, bird life, and other animal life that should be of interests. There are even specialized tours available that will highlight and focus on the wide variety of life on this great island. Not only are there a great variety of land animals but a good representation of sea animals can be observed here as well. If you love nature, this is a great place to get a good dose of it while in the big city of San Francisco. Not only can you enjoy the sea animals on the ferry ride over (if you choose a ferry for your transportation) but you get to enjoy the plant and animal life on the island as well. Don't forget the air animals either though. There are many varieties of birds that are well represented here as well.
For those that prefer more active pursuits, there is plenty on Angel Island to keep you entertained and happy. First of all, there is plenty to offer by way of hikes. There are even guided hiking tours that offer the safety of numbers (very good for beginning hikers) and information about the island and its rich history. If hiking isn't really your thing, there are also bike rentals available on the island as well. With several trails to choose from with varying degrees of difficulty, even the beginner can enjoy a nice ride around the island.
My personal favorite physical activity here would be the kayak tours. For the right price you can book a guided kayak tour around the island. The tour includes equipment rental, your guide for the day, and a picnic lunch this would be for the all day tour, which will take you around the entire island. There is a 2 and a half hour tour if you aren't too sure about the whole kayaking thing or want to have time to enjoy other aspects of the island on your trip as well. The beauty of a trip to Angel Island is that there really is no right or wrong way to go about enjoying your day.
For sun lovers, there are several beaches where you can bring a blanket and lie down with a good book in order to catch some rays. I do not recommend swimming from Angel Island as the water isn't the cleanest nor is it the calmest. The tides are dangerous and can turn amazingly quickly. But if you love books and find that you could use a ray or two, let the kids and the rest of the family go biking, hiking, touring, and all that other good stuff while you catch up on the latest best seller at the beach.
All of this and I haven't even really hinted at the rich history of Angel Island. There are many activities planned throughout the year that introduce visitors to the rich history of this island. From Civil War Days to the Potomac Tours to the Victorian Christmas there are brief snapshots into the history of this great island. Beyond these events there are tram tours that are offered almost daily during the regular season on the island that provide brief overviews into the islands history. This would be a great way to spend a day while visiting San Francisco.

All-Inclusive Vacation Resorts in St. Thomas

Each year, millions of individuals, couples, and families make the decision to schedule a vacation. St. Thomas is a popular vacation destination, unfortunately, a large number of individuals believe that a St. Thomas vacation is out of their reach.  If you are interested in scheduling a St. Thomas vacation, you should not let the cost of vacationing there prevent you from vacationing at your dream destination. 
If you are interested in how you could be spending your vacation in St. Thomas without having to be concerned with the price, you may want to examine all-inclusive resorts that can be found in St. Thomas.  Many couples and families find that they are able to save a large amount of money by booking their vacation at an all-inclusive resort.
When examining all-inclusive resorts in St. Thomas, you are encouraged to take a number of important factors into consideration. One of these factors is what each resort considers to be all-inclusive. All-inclusive resorts come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles.  Each of those resorts is likely to have different resort rules and regulations.  You may find that a number of these rules and regulations are placed on all-inclusive packages.
What one popular St. Thomas resort may consider all-inclusive, another resort may not. That is why it is extremely important to determine everything that is considered in an all-inclusive resort package, before making your reservations.  Fine dining, beach travel, and onsite entrainment is often included in most vacation packages.  Alcohol may or may not be included in an all-inclusive package.  Some St. Thomas resorts offer their guests all the free alcohol they can drink and other require that alcohol be paid for or a limit is placed on the number of drinks you can have. 
When examining all-inclusive resorts in St. Thomas, you are also encouraged to consider the type of vacation that you are planning on taking.  St. Thomas is a popular vacation destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families who are on a family vacation. There are a number of all-inclusive St. Thomas resorts that have age restrictions.
The age restrictions in place at many St. Thomas resorts are designed to help create a romantic environment.  These restrictions often keep children, under the age of eighteen, off of the resort.  If you are planning on vacationing with your family, it is important that you schedule your vacation at a resort that caters to individuals of all ages.  Below is an overview of two popular all-inclusive St. Thomas resorts that are ideal for family vacations.
(1)  The Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa comes highly recommended by past St. Thomas vacationers.  This all-inclusive resort is located within a short driving distance to the closest airport, making the Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa ideal for couples traveling with their children. 
Located directly on the beach, the Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa offers an unlimited number of beachside activities. These activities may include, but are not limited to, swimming, sun bathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating. Beach lovers, of all ages, will enjoy vacationing at this all-inclusive resort. 
(2)  The Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villias is one of the most highly rated all-inclusive resorts.  Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villias is ideal for romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons, business meetings, and family vacations. 
On and offsite activities and facilities are geared towards individuals of all ages. Adults and children will have fun playing on the beach, swimming in the hotel pool, playing numerous outdoor sports games, participating in snorkeling tours, and much more.  Whatever you and your family are looking for, the Bolongo Bay Beach Club has what you may need. 
As previously mentioned, additional all-inclusive resorts can be found on the St. Thomas Island.  It is important to remember to closely examine each resort and their policies before placing your reservations.  By taking the time to examine multiple resorts, it will be easier to make sure that you get everything that you want and need while on vacation.

Travel Tips to European Countries: Albania

Albania is a mountainous country and the one of the smallest countries of Europe. The residents supposedly descended from ancient Illyrians.
Culture
The culture of Albania is majorly influenced by that of the mainland Greeks especially in the urban locality; nodding one’s head means ‘no’ where as shaking the head means ‘yes’. To greet someone, handshaking is preferred, though Shoku (Comrade) was used before, which has been long forgotten now. People dress informally here. Swim suits are meant for the beaches, otherwise women are expected not to dress in a revealing outfit. When addressing someone prefix Zoti(Mr) or Zonja(Mrs) before the name and always remember to carry some gifts when visiting someone, although flowers aren’t much acceptable. The guests are served with coffee, raki or sweets. Smokers don’t have to worry much, but they should avoid it where they see a sign of Ndalohet Duhani or Ndalohet pirja e duhanit.
Travelling within the country
Buses with relatively cheap fares operate in the main cities of the country or taxis are another choice which provided service for some main hotels.
Visit Dajti Mountain and experience Dajti Ekspres Cable car for an unforgettable 15 minute ride passing through Dajt Oark to reach Tirana. The route is about 4.2 km long and the ride costs €6.5.Alpha Yachting provides crewed yacht which is a luxury in itself. Tirana Bank is the best place for withdrawing money as it allows access to Visa cards.
Eating Out
Restaurants are not always sufficiently heated, so always wear warm clothes if out in the night during winters. Foreigners are charged more than the locals. Both the entry fees as well as any merchandise will be on a higher scale, so it’s better not to reveal the fact that you are a foreigner when out on the streets.
Site Seeing
If you enjoy canoeing, this is the right place to be. There are places right outside Tirana which is an amazing site for not just canoeing, but also rock climbing, hiking, and camping.
Accommodation
If you want a 5-Star ambience, try The Sheraton Tirana Hotel and Towers, which is situated in the middle of a shopping and entertainment center. There are about 151 rooms and 56 suites. So, along with the comfort, one can shop at once convenience here. Another hotel which provides all modern facilities is Hotel Mondial. It is located 1000 m away from the city and is also a good example of traditional architecture.
Getting There
One of the best and the easiest means is to go by air. Albanian Airlines is the national airline which works in collaboration with Tyrolean Airways, and provides service to almost all the big European cities. The airport, Mother Teresa, is 16 miles or 26 km away from the capital. A tourist bus is available every 3 hrs to get to the city center and takes about 30 minutes to get there. Taxis are available round the clock. While waiting for any transport service, tourists can check out the duty free shops, bank, eateries and car hire at the airport. A departure tax of $10 USD is imposed on all foreign nationals. Check out http://www.flyalbanian/ .com for flight times and offers.
If trying to get there by sea, try the ferry services which are provided by Adriatic Line and Agoudimos. The main ports are Durres (has ferry connection to Italy, Bari, Brindisi, Trieste, and Ancona), Vlora (has ferry connection to Bari, and Brindisi), Saranda (has connection to Corfu), Shen Gjini (has ferry connection to Bari). Check out http://www.adriatica.it/ and http://www.aqoudimos-lines.com/ for more information.
Bus is another option. Buses start from Istanbul, Athens and Sofia. Internal passengers have lots of options with bus services provided. If traveling by road in a private car, there is road network to the Kosovo region, but they are too dangerous to use because of the political tensions within the region. Crossings at Hani I Hotit, Bllata, Oafa e Thaes, Tushemisht, Gorica, Kapshtica, and kakavija can be taken. If tired one can take halts at hotels or other designated areas. There is a network of 18,000 km, out of which only 7450 km are main roads, for local travelers. About 2138km stretch of these roads is in poor condition and has pot holes, and utmost safety precautions should be taken when driving on such roads. Speed limit should be strictly followed on highways as well as within towns. Driving at night should be better avoided because of the absence of street lights on the road except for urban areas. Traffic should drive on the right-hand. There is a shortage of gas stations in the countryside, so filling the gas tank completely when passing through urban area is recommended and since there is lack of national recovery system; travelers should be prepared for an emergency or breakdown before hand. One should carry necessary documents like International Driving Permit and national driving license.
Duty Free Items
Following are the items that can be carried without customs duty being levied on them:
1. 1liter of spirits or 2liter of wine
2. 250ml of eau de toilette
3. 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco
4. 50ml of perfume.
Prohibited Items
Things that are prohibited to carry are firearms, narcotics and ammunitions. Special export permission should be taken for precious metals, books, antiques, work of art, or material of national or historic value.

terça-feira, 21 de dezembro de 2010

Alaska Ski Vacations

Alaska, which has always been a source of awe and
 mystery, has some of the best skiing in the world,
and the Alyeska Resort is one of the finest resorts
in the state. With a top elevation of 2751 feet and a
2501 vertical drop, the area gets an average of 631
inches of snow annually.
Although this is some of the best skiing in the world,
you won’t find the slopes overly crowded, and there
are no long lift lines. There are nine lifts, including
six chair lifts and two surface lifts, and one cable
car line. There are 68 trails for beginners,
intermediates, and experts, with the majority of the
trails designed for intermediate skiers.
Night time skiing is allowed, which makes your ski
experience more adventurous and thrilling. You will
see snow capped mountains, hanging glaciers, and
of course, the famous Northern Lights. This resort is
ranked number nine of the top twenty-five killer ski
trips by Skiing Magazine.
The season begins at the Alyeska Resort in mid
November, and runs through mid April. This area of
Alaska boasts the longest daytime areas in the
United States, with approximately sixteen hours of
daylight each day during April. During December,
however, there are only about seven hours of daylight
– which makes night time skiing necessary if you
are going to get in the time that you want to spend
on the slopes.
The Alyeska Prince Hotel is the place to stay! Here
you will enjoy elegant rooms and fine dining. Nightly
entertainment is available as well. There are other
nightlife spots in the area as well, that are not
associated with the Hotel.
If tubing interests you, then visiting the Glacier
Tubing Park is an absolute must! Featuring two
lanes of terrain and a surface lift, everyone in the
family will enjoy spending time at the tubing park.
The Alyeska Terrain Park is a must for
snowboarding enthusiasts. Other winter activities
that can be enjoyed in and around the Alyeska
Resort include flight seeing, helisking, ocean
cruising tours, dog sledding, ice climbing, back
country skiing, mountaineering, and polar bear
viewing.
At the Alyeska Resort, the ultimate winter vacation
can be experienced. Brave the elements, then return
to the Hotel for some pampering. Get a taste of what
Alaska is really like, and what skiing is meant to be!
There are activities for the entire family to enjoy, and
there are many area sights and attractions to be
enjoyed as well. This really is an awesome winter
family ski vacation!

Basic Information on Alaskan Cruises

Alaska, a place dubbed as the “Ice World”. Alaska is in fact a beautiful, innate place that offers mountains of glaciers and icebergs. It is also a place where whales and bears live and flourish and it is a place that offers breathtaking scenery of the beauty of Mother Nature. It is also a unique place for cruises offering the best of both worlds, from the naturalistic to the urbane.
Many cruisers who have experienced the splendor of Alaska would attest that they really like their experience in this wondrous place called Alaska. The mountains are towering high. The different kinds of animals that Alaska has are a wonder to watch, these are animals that may not be seen commonly in other places.
The boarder of Alaska has a wide collection of nibbling grass which gives it its mystical color. Many people see Alaska as an ice covered white blanketed land, these grasses makes it a surprise. The coastline gives an outstanding view of sparkling ice formation. The deep water flow fluently and the emerging color goes blue. The sky is being reflected by the shinning glimpse of the sun. The fields of flower and wild grass are stunning.
Cruising along the coastal areas of Alaska can give a view which is invisible from any other route. The cruise will have the chance to witness the action of the massive collection of glaciers as they meet the ocean. Aside from that, the cruiser can also observe the different lifestyle of the people in Alaska. Moreover, they can also have the chance to see different kinds of whales as they play along in their natural habitat.
Most of the Alaskan cruises offer more inland pleasure trips. By having this kind of trip, the vacation cruise can be able to go along into the national parks and discover the innate beauty of nature.
An Alaskan cruise can promise a great trip and accommodating, comfortable amenities. The passenger will not just simply travel around inside the ship, but will have the chance to explore the inner beauties of Alaska mainland through magnificent tours.
The cruising ship automatically parks on a place called the “Town of Tourists”. It is a place where the ships unload the passengers. It is a small town which only has 600 or more as a population. 
The local people normally guide the tourist in the places they could take their rest. They also serve as the tourist guides as they go around the area. Normally, the tourists outnumber the local population. In most cases, the ratio of the tourists to the locals is 6:1. The local people appreciate the presence of the tourists as they provide more livelihood to their community.
On the other hand, the tourist is being advised not to misbehave and respect the culture of the area as they are just visitors there. The local people are bothered mostly by the invasion of the tourist who only wants to shop and makes fun of their way of life.
It is very advisable to have a cruise line traveling on a balanced route. Balanced route means appreciating the beauty of nature and environment landscape without disturbing the whole systems.
Getting the best deals for the Alaskan cruises is really a great opportunity.   To discuss further here are some of the basic steps on how to get discounts on an Alaskan cruise.
•  The very first thing to do is to arrange a cruise during the off seasons. As much as possible keep away from the peak seasons of cruise vacations. It would be better if you can schedule your time three to four weeks away from the peak seasons. For instance, an Alaskan traveling cruise normally has its peak season on July and September. Having an Alaskan vacation cruise previously to those dates will surely save a lot of cash.
•  Choose which type of cruising ship to use. There are some traveling agencies based in Alaska that pushes a specific line for different reasons.  It would be great to do a little homework and research first. Comparing the shipping lines fees and services will save a lot of money.
•  As much as possible do not be misled with honey-sweet publicity that promises so much for nothing. Talking with the right travel agency can give very important information that can result to significant savings.  
•  Have an Alaskan vacation cruise quotation that comprises the port fees and tax revenues. If the traveling agency fails to give that certain information, look for another agency. There must not be hidden fees and uncertain collections. Beware of the port fees that run a couple of hundreds of dollars each for each person. The port fees must be stable and consistent. 
•  Get an inside cabin. Usually, an inside cabin is the cheapest. Aside from that, the inside cabin can also add comfort to the vacationer. Remember that the weather of Alaska is cold, the inside temperature is much warmer which is more comfortable.
Remember to avoid the stresses in Alaskan cruising, having booked at least two weeks before the departure is recommended. Check out for a list of the cruise trips to Alaska. Always remember that, Alaska’s beauty and fineness must not be disturbed. Respecting the nature will make the cruise more enjoyable.

Experience “Icy” Adventure through Alaskan Cruise

When you consider cruising, one of the important factors that you look for is the itinerary. A popular cruise destination includes the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, the Bahamas, and Panama Canal. It offers quite different vacation treat for cruise ships’ passengers, especially for the first timers.
However, for regular cruise aficionados, they looking for an idea of a cruise that is a little different from the usual destinations previously mentioned. If the itinerary is still the same although they are sailing with different cruise line, the element of uniqueness and excitement is not present in their cruise vacation.
If you are one of those vacationers, who are looking for a different cruise experience, then a cruise trip to Alaska is what you are looking for. You can expect a different landscape, people, and other stuffs that you will not forget.
If you are ready to do something different, then try the Alaskan adventure. It has everything that will suit your need. It is indeed a perfect getaway either for a short excursion or for a long vacation.
Alaska is the largest state in the United States in terms of land area (570,374 square miles); if superimposed over the map of the country, it can cover the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, and Colorado. Although having an enormous land area, it is one of the largely unpopulated areas in the world, with animals outnumbering human settlers.
Its boundaries are marked by natural landscape like mountain ranges and streams. The largest attraction in Alaska is its ice glaciers, which makes it a perfect destination for cruising. Sailing along its lengthy coastline allows you to observe these spectacular sights.
In case you prefer in selecting a cruise that will bring you in Glacier Bay, you will be witnessing the glaciers calving. Calving is the process by which the rivers of ice drop breaks off the edge of the cliff into the sea. Larger mass of glaciers can perform this several times an hour. It is the breathtaking part when you decide to make an Alaskan cruise.
While seeing these glaciers calving, you may also have the urge to touch it. Lucky for you, there are cruise lines that provide helicopter rides and hiking which permits you to step on one of these ice glaciers, which you cannot experience on any other cruise destination in the world.
If you or an Alaskan cruise vacation, you may also want to check Tracy Arm Fjord, which is a stretch of water that ventures inland and away from the shoreline. It will allow you to experience the power of the granite walls, mountain peaks, and majestic waterfalls from an unusual point.
Perfect months on getting an Alaskan cruise are from May through September. In other words, you can expect a decrease in the temperature compared to over hundred degrees temperature in the South during summer season.
There are two most popular Alaskan cruises. The first one is the Inside Passage cruise, which generally runs a length of about a week. It includes itinerary stops at Ketchikan, Skagway, and Juneau. Different sights and side trips can also be expected when you take this cruise.
The second one is the Gulf of Alaska cruise or also known as the Glacier Route Cruise. You can expect to see the Glacier Bay, which is previously mentioned in this article, and possibly the Hubbard Glacier.
Whichever cruise you prefer, cruise lines will provide you options on the ships that you want to board. There are smaller excursion ships that can carry an average of 150 passengers. You can take a closer look at a glacier rather than using the larger cruise ships (see what happened to the famous Titanic vessel).
The choices are all dependent on you. If you are really an adventurous-type individual, you want to book a smaller cruise vessel although it is quite expensive. If sightseeing for you is enough, then a bigger cruise ship is good for you. Don’t worry, though, whichever you choose, always expect the unexpected.
It is all bared—what is Alaska and what can it offer to you. Once you get going, you will forget all about your worries. So board a cruise ship and start your Alaskan cruise right away. Enjoy cruising!

Alaska Cruise: Cold Place, Warm Nature Loving Person

Have you ever wanted to go to Alaska and explore the unique beauty of this place?
Try planning your vacation by taking an Alaska Cruise. An Alaska cruise can take you to the great wonders of this majestic place, one of the youngest members of the United States of America..
Most of you might doubt if Alaskan Cruises really exists. This is because when someone talks about cruises, people tend to think about beautiful and exotic beaches of a tropical paradise like the Caribbean. Cruise vacations in Alaska also exist, and anyone can enjoy the relaxing cruise with all the amenities and services you would get on a cruise vacation in the Caribbean.
Alaska cruises offer a lot of things to vacationers or tourists different from what you would usually find on a regular cruise in a tropical paradise. If you want something different for your vacation, why not consider taking a cruise vacation to Alaska.
One great feature of Alaska cruises is that most cruises to Alaska gives you the chance to experience pleasurable things onboard and also give your kids the opportunity to enjoy such trip and visit the wonderful place of Alaska. This type of vacation is perfect for the whole family.
Alaska is the 49th state in the U.S. It is known for being cold. There are so many things that someone can enjoy and witness in this state. Most people said that Alaska is incomparable most especially for traveling and discovering. It is the largest state of the United States of America with lands reaching up to 586,000 square miles. Just imagine about the possible things that you will enjoy in this place.
Here are some of the attractions available that will provide you fun and excitement.
•  Wildlife
•  Helicopter trip
•  Train rides
•  Bus trip to Denali State Park
•  King Salmon fishing
Most people would say that it will probably take two lifetimes just to experience all of these things. But in an Alaska Cruise, you will surely experience them in a week or two.
With the Alaska’s huge wilderness, it will certainly give you the chance for viewing nature from both up close or from a distance. For instance, travelers will have the chance to witness the large eagle population in this part of the world. Therefore, it will definitely amaze you whether you’re a nature lover or just a simple person who wants to see these wonderful birds in flight.
Alaska has the biggest moderate tropical forest in the entire United States. Just have the time to learn about it and witness this fantastic gift of nature. It also offers a view of huge glaciers and snow capped mountains.
This incomparable trip always happens whenever you decided to take a vacation cruise in Alaska. Witnessing each glacier formations and the remarkable waterfront town will certainly invite you to discover and observe Alaska’s unique beauty and magnificence. It will also provide you the freedom to explore Alaska by climbing glaciers and walks on port of call towns.
One of the best means to view this incredible state is by cruising the so called Inner Passage. Being in one of the cruise ships to Alaska is one of the best and easy ways to discover the wholeness of Alaska in comfort and style.
In addition, the travelers are also assured that all their basic needs such as the meals, transportation and accommodation has already been handled and they have the choice of selecting any events and activities they want to have.
You can also have the opportunity to have a whale viewing or have a helicopter tour and step over a glacier. However, it all depends on which town you drop by. You can also take a ride to the amazing White Pass Railroad. And, you can also experience a jeep trip on different roads and off road trails.
Each town you will visit will seem like having their own unique culture and beauty with many historical events that takes place on usual basis and will make you not want to miss these events. Museums are also available where you can know all about Alaska’s history and culture.
Visiting Alaska in fall will let you experience viewing the fantastic light display of the Aurora Borealis.
Many travelers believe that Alaska almost got all the wonders that the nature can give, from the world’s most popular parks and volcanoes to the historical and yearly activities. 
With all of this laid on the table, it is expected that Alaska will soon become one of the most famous and favorite cruise vacation destination of every traveler.

Have a Break, Have Thrill and Excitement with Alaska Cruise

People of the present age are preoccupied with their respective endeavors. They want to keep up with the fast pace of the contemporary life. They often end up fatigued. They take no time to relax. They sacrifice even their precious sleeping time until their body gives in to dizziness and cramps.
Many times, they skip meals or eat in a rush. They are always armed with alarm clocks, appointment pads, or planner calendars to keep their feet on the go. Don't they know that keeping up to the fast rhythm of life without a break could pin them to the sick bed, or worse, to the grave? Mental and physical fatigue accumulated but ignored through the years and could make one ill.
Wait! Work, work, work. Doesn’t it sound too much? Why not give yourself a break?
Life need not to be lived at a fast pace. After all, life is better enjoyed when regular retreats are squeezed into the rigors of one’s job or chosen endeavor.
You can do plenty of relaxation activities during your spare time. If you are planning to make it more exciting and fun, Alaska could be the best choice for you. It is just a matter of taking a thrill and sight-seeing of the wonders of the world at once.
Alaska cruise is divided into three various categories of packages. Each of the packages will render you an enchanting experience that you find only in Alaska. These are the following:

•  Alaska Inland Cruise – you will have the chance to visit all the inland wonders that can be situated within the vicinity of Alaska. You will surely be captivated with icebergs and glaciers.

•  Alaska Day Cruise – here, you will have a clearer view of the entire of Alaska. From the name of the package itself, you will be toured on a day cruise. You can have a face top face with a huge wall of ice in Alaska.
•  Alaska Celebrity Cruise – this is the so-called first class cruise in Alaska. You will also experience more royalty treatment with the celebrity cruise. On the other hand, this is the most expensive among all Alaskan cruises.

The usual attractions that cruisers love about Alaska are the humpback whales, sailing Fjords and glaciers. You can have an actual view of these depending on the package that you have chosen.
In addition, nothing can also be compared to the magic of Alaska cruises. This is the only place where you can find mystery of ice and wildlife. You also have the opportunity of go on sailing with the ice.
The package that you prefer will also determine the length of your stay in Alaska. Usually, most of the cruisers choose to have the seven-day cruise. This is enough time for you to explore the entire cruising points of Alaska if you will maximize your time. However, the length of your stay can also be extended to as long as 14 days or the two-week cruise.
You have the privileged to choose the size of the ship where you can be most comfortable. Sometimes, it is more preferable to ride inside on smaller ships with lesser number of capacities of passengers. You can have closer look to the view.
Unlike the bigger ships with almost more than a thousand of passengers, it is harder or you to go out of the crowd, make a nearer look, and even touch on the glaciers, larger ship has also more luxurious amenities while the smaller ship can bring you into thrill because of its incomparable speed.
You grab the chance of choosing the best package. Find the best package that will hit your needs. Therefore, Alaska Cruise is offering amazing trips with helicopter and then you will land on the glaciers. If you want to keep yourself in an adventure, you can also take a walk on the glaciers.
You can never compare your experience with Alaska cruise. Unlike in other cruises that you have before where you had a single regret with your expenses during the cruise, well in Alaska it will all be fun for you.
What are you waiting for? Leave all your worries in life and enjoy Alaska Cruise!

quinta-feira, 16 de dezembro de 2010

Air Travel Rules: Traveling With Tools

Are you a handyman by trade?  If so, it is likely that you have grown accustomed to carrying your tools around with you, wherever you go. In fact, there is also a chance that you may need to travel with them. Whether you are traveling for business purposes or not, it is important to know that the airline industry as a specific set of air travel rules concerning tools.  If you are planning on brining your tools along with you, you will want to take the time to famialrize yourself with these rules.  Doing so may prove helpful, in more ways than one.

Before examining the tools that are not allowed aboard an airline and those that are, it is important to know one thing, there are different types of rules.  Most airlines do not strictly prohibit you from carry tools with you, but they do restrict you from carry them at certain times. For instance, you will find that a large number of tools can be stored in your checked baggage, but they are prohibited from being stored in your carryon luggage.  If, at anytime, you are confused about these bans, you are advised to contact your airline for additional information.

One group of tools that are banned from carryon luggage includes sharp objects. With the recent focus on airport security, you should already be well aware of this type of ban. Saws, saw blades, drills, and box cutters are banned from all airplane cabins. Essentially, this means that you cannot store these items in your carryon luggage; however, they can be packed in your checked baggage.  Since all baggage, including the bags that you do not plan on keeping with you at all times, needs to be searched, you are advised to properly secure these tools. Not doing so may result in an air airline employee receiving an injury that could have been prevented.

In addition to tools with sharp edges, there is also a carryon luggage ban on tools that could be used as a deadly weapon. These tools include axes, hatchets, cattle prods, hammers, and crowbars.  This ban is mostly imposed due to the size and weight of these items.  As with most other tools, the airline industry will allow you to store these heavy tools in your checked baggage.

Although it may seem as if all tools are banned from your carryon luggage, that is not the case.  There are a number of tools can be stored in your carryon luggage. These tools commonly include screwdrivers and pliers.  Additional tools may also be allowed, but they must not have been mentioned above. It is also required that these tools be no more than seven inches long. In the event that they are longer than seven inches, you will have to make additional accommodations.

Despite the fact that certain tools can be stored in your carryon luggage, it may be a good idea to put these items in your checked baggage or leave them at home.  Even though these items are allowed, you may raise suspicion from having them with you aboard a plane. That suspicion may not necessity come from airport security officials, but it may come from other passengers.  With the way that the world works today, it may be best if you refrain from including these tools in your carryon luggage, unless you absolutely need them.

Air Travel Rules: Traveling with Sports Equipment

Are you an avid sports fan?  If so, there is a good chance that you will try and incorporate sports into your next vacation or business trip. If you are planning on enjoying a game of golf or a game of baseball, it is likely that you will want to bring along some sporting equipment with you.  However, did you know there are certain restrictions on those items?  If you are planning on traveling with sports equipment, not matter what sport that equipment is for, you are advised to familiarize yourself with these rules and restrictions.

As previously mentioned, golf is a sport that many travelers enjoy participating in.  If you are planning on traveling with your golf clubs, you will need to treat them as checked baggage. All airlines currently have a ban on golf clubs being used as carryon luggage.  Due to the cost of most golf club sets, you will either want to leave your clubs at home or properly protect them.  If you are traveling to a golf resort or other popular vacation destination, there is a good chance that you should be able to rent a set of golf clubs. Although they will not be your own, it is nice to know that your set is safe at home.

In addition to golf, baseball is another sport enjoyed by many.  Like golf clubs, baseball bats are banned from being used as carryon luggage.  If you are planning on enjoying a game of baseball, on your next vacation or business trip, you will want to store your baseball bats in a secure bag that can safely be transported through different airports.  While baseball bats are banned from airplane cabins, there is no mention of other equipment, such as cleats, helmets, or baseballs.  For your own convenience, you may want to store these other baseball supplies in the same place as your baseball bats, in your checked baggage.

Of course, if you are planning on enjoying a hunting excursion, when on vacation or a business trip, you will need to keep your supplies in your checked baggage.  All bows, arrows, and guns are strictly prohibited from being in airplane cabins. In fact, if you try and pass through a security checkpoint with these items, is there is a good chance that you will be detained by airport security, for further questioning. Although you may not necessarily think about it, bows, arrows, and guns are not only used for recreational purposes, but they are also used to harm others.

Additional sporting goods that are banned from being included in your carryon luggage include pool cues, ski poles, lacrosse sticks, or hockey sticks.  As with all other items, if you are concerned with the safety of your sporting equipment, you are advised to rethink your decision to bring that equipment along.  You can help to protect your equipment by making sure that everything is properly and safely packaged; however, there are no guarantees.  You are also advised against relying on compensation from the airlines if and when your sports equipment suffers damage.

As previously mentioned, there are some sporting goods that are outright banned, but other rules are not so clear.  If you are trying to decide whether or not you can pack other equipment in your carryon luggage, such as masks or other protective gear, you are advised to ask before heading out to the airport. In the event that these items are banned, you may have to make additional arrangements. Regardless of whether you choose to return the items to your car or mail them to your home, you may end up wasting unnecessary time and money.

Air Travel Rules: Traveling With Electronics

In this day in age, it seems as if all individuals have at least once piece of electronic equipment with them, often at all times. That electronic equipment may include a cell phone, a beeper, a laptop, or a personal data assistant, commonly known as a PDA. If you are one of the individuals that regularly travels around with one or more of these electronic items, there is a good chance that you will be taking them with you when you board an airplane. If so, there is a chance that you may be concerned with whether or not they are a violation of air travel rules.

When it comes to determining which electronics are prohibited aboard an airplane, you will find that almost all are allowed.  Despite this allowance, it is still a good idea that you check with your airline or airport, in advance.  Since most electronic items are expensive, you not want to get to the airport only to learn that you are prohibited from bringing all of your belongings with you, especially something as expensive as most electronic equipment.

As previously mentioned, many individuals keep a cell phone or pager with them at all times.  All cell phones and pagers are permitted aboard airplanes. In addition to being permitted onboard, they are allowed to be stored in your carryon luggage.  Your cell phone or pager, like most other electronic equipment, will be suspect to inspection, if need be.

Laptops and personal data assistants, commonly known as PDA’s, are also permitted aboard airplanes.  You are also allowed to store them in your carryon luggage, if you choose to.  If stored in your carryon luggage, your laptop or personal data assistant machine will need to be scanned along with the rest of your carryon luggage. This screening process is safe and should not hurt your equipment.

While the screening process is safe for most electronic equipment, it isn’t for all.  There is a chance that your film, especially film that has yet to be developed, could be ruined by the x-ray machines.  In the event that you are storing a camera in your carryon luggage, you will need to notify airport security.  They have alternative ways of checking your camera or film equipment. Other recording devices, such as digital cameras or camcorders, are also permitted aboard an airplane, even in your carryon luggage. It is safe for these items to go through the x-ray screening process.

As previously mentioned, many of the above mentioned electronics can either be stored in your carryon luggage or your checked baggage.  If you are able to store the items in your carryon luggage, you are advised to do so. It is no secret that checked baggage gets tossed around in a number of different fashions.  With expensive electronic equipment, your equipment is less likely to suffer damage if you are the one in charge of caring for it.  In addition to a reduction in damage, most airlines are restricting the use of baggage locks.  This means that it may be unwise for you to store expensive equipment in your checked baggage, especially if you cannot lock it.  Honestly, you never know who may have access to it.

By keeping the above mentioned information in mind, you should be able to pack correctly for your next trip, whether or not that trip is a business trip. Although most airlines do not have restrictions on the electronic equipment that you bring onboard, you will find that the use of these items is often restricted.  A large number of airlines will only let you power up your camcorder, cell phone, pager, PDA, or laptop during specified times.

Air Travel Rules: Flying With Pets

When it comes to air travel, a large number of individuals hit the skies daily.  People fly for all different reasons. Some individuals need to make a business trip, others are visiting friends or family, others are going on vacation, and some are making a cross country move.  If you are moving, there is a good chance that you may need to bring your pet along with you. If this is the case, you will find that you are subject to a whole new set of air travel rules.  Before leaving for the airport, with your pet or pets in tow, you are advised to famialrize yourself with those rules.

The first step in traveling, in the air, with a pet is to make sure that they are even allowed.  Certain pets are allowed to be on airplanes, but that does not mean that all airlines will allow it.  If you are planning on traveling with your pet, you will need to inform your airline of this information upfront.  This is vital because not all airlines will allow you to bring a pet onboard. Therefore, if you do not check with your airline before heading to the airport, you may be unable to board your flight.

When traveling with a pet, you will need to keep that pet contained. That means that if you are traveling with an animal, such as a dog or a cat, that animal will likely need to be in a carrier.  When purchasing an animal carrier, it is important to know that not all carriers are permitted onboard. If you will be keeping your animal in the cabin with you, as opposed to having your animal treated as checked baggage, you will need to make sure that your pet carrier will not negatively affect other passengers. Your pet carrier must not block aisle ways or encroach on other passenger’s seating spaces.  In addition to these general rules and restrictions, you may find that each airline has their own set of pet carrier rules.

Almost all airlines require that your pets have the proper documents before being allowed on their airplanes.  These documents most commonly include information on your pet’s health.  Most airlines require that your pet undergoes a medical evaluation before being transported by airplane.  This information is not only used to ensure that your pet is healthy enough to fly, but is also used to ensure that they are protected with the proper vaccinations.  Proper vaccinations will not only protect your pet, but other passengers, as well as airline staff.

Once you have received clearance from the airline, which you wish to fly on, purchased the appropriate pet equipment, and obtained the proper health checks for your pet, you will need to wait until your day of travel. On that day, you may want to arrive at the airport a little bit earlier than recommended. This will help to ensure that you could quickly straighten out a problem, without having to miss your flight, should one arise.

When you and your pet arrive at the airport, whether it be early or not, you will both be required to go through airport security. Your pet will be required to pass through a metal detector, just like everyone else.  If you are using a pet carrier, it is also likely that your pet carrier will be subject to examination.  This examination most commonly includes being sent though the x-ray machine with your carryon luggage; however, it is important to note that your pet will not have to go through the x-ray machine; the metal detector should be enough.

As previously mentioned, not all airlines allow their passengers to fly with their pets, even in the cabin or below deck.

Air Travel Rules: Are They Different With Children?

Are you and your family planning on taking a trip now or in the near future?  If so, there is a good chance that you all will be flying on airplane.  When traveling a long distance, especially with children, airplanes can be the quickest way to get to your destination.  However, when it comes to air travel rules and children, many parents are confused. Many of those parents mistakenly believe that their child is exempt from all air travel rules, including airport security checkpoints. Unfortunately, this is not true.

If you are planning on traveling with your child, they will not receive a free pass. This means that they must undergo the exact same screening process as everyone else.  Although you will all be going through the same screening process, you will want to prepare for it a little bit differently. This preparation should not only be used to ensure that you and your family make it through the airport screening process, but that you and your family have a pleasant experience when doing so.

The first step in preparing for air travel is explaining the air travel rules to your child or children. Depending on their age, this can be a fairly difficult task.  When explaining the screening process, it is important that your child knows they will have to enter the metal detectors.  If your child can walk, they are encouraged to go through them alone.  Although there is a good chance that the alarm will not sound, especially if you check their clothing before you leave; it could still be a fairly scary process.  In the event that the alarm on the metal detector does sound, your child will be pulled aside, just like everyone else.

It is also important to talk to your children about what is allowed and what is not allowed on the airplane. For instance, there is a good chance that your child would like to take a drink with them. Recently, there was a ban imposed on liquids and carryon luggage.  While there are a few exceptions, namely baby formula, your child will likely have to go without a beverage, although they should be provided with one as soon as they board the plane.  It is also advised to let them know that some of their toys may need to be left at home. These toys may include ones that are large, have sharp objects, or appear as if they are real weapons.

As previously mentioned, your child’s age is important when explaining air travel to them. You will find that most older children, including teenagers, completely understand everything that you are saving, but smaller children may not.  If you are afraid that your toddler does not comprehend what you are saying, it may be a good idea to arrive at the airport even earlier than recommended.  You should be able to stay off to the side and watch other passengers, especially those who are going through the screening process. This, along with a simple explanation, may help your child to see and understand what will happen to them later on.

While you may not necessarily think about it, it is important that you make sure that your child understands that they are not to joke about having a bomb or any other weapon on an airplane.  Airport security, although it is a serious issue, has become a joke to many people, including some children. Your child may not have a weapon onboard and they may only make a comment with the intention of getting a laugh, there is a lot more that they could get. As previously mentioned, when it comes to air travel children receive the same attention as adults do. This means that if your child is overheard making a joke on the plane that may cause some security concerns; it is likely that your whole family, including your child, will be removed from the plane and detained by airport security, until the situation has been resolved.

By keeping the above mentioned points in mind, you should not have any problems traveling with your child.  Even if you feel that your child is mature for their age, it is still a good idea to remind them of all air travel rules, not only for the sake of your trip, but for their own safety as well.

Air Travel: Is the Clothing You Wear Important

When it comes to air travel and clothing, we are all different.  There are some travelers who are dressed in business suits, others in traditional jeans, and others who wear something as comfortable as possible, such as their pajamas or sweat pants.  With the recent increase in airport security and the recent change in air travel rules, there are many individuals who wonder if the clothing they wear to the airport is important.  If you are one of those individuals, you can rest assure because, in most cases, it is not.

It seems as if ever since airplanes became the popular way to travel, a focus has been placed on comfort. Regardless of whether or not you will be taking a long flight, you will want to be comfortable. There is nothing worse than wearing an itchy sweater or tight pair of pants up in the air. Unless you bring a chance of clothes with you and place them in your carryon bag, you are out of luck. That is why it is important that you think of what you will be wearing before you leave for the airport.  Even if you are traveling for business, you should be able to change in to your business clothes as soon as you arrive at your destination, even in the airport bathrooms.

When it comes to comfort, as previously mentioned, many air travelers make the decision to wear sweat pants and a comfortable top.  In addition to being comfortable, you will find, in most cases, that these types of clothes are the best for airport security, especially when entering airport screening checkpoints. This is because most sweat pants are not made with any metal items.  Essentially, this means that you should be able to enter the security checkpoint and leave it quicker than most other travelers, such as the travelers who are decked out in accessories.

When it comes to clothing accessories, you will find that a number of different items set off airport metal detectors. That is why most airport security officers request that you remove all of your jewelry.  Once your jewelry is removed, you will need to place it in a small bin, which will be scanned right along with your carryon luggage.  Whether you have rings or a necklace, you are advised to remove them, if you can.  For your convenience, you can leave your earrings on.  If by chance, you earrings set the metal detectors off, you will likely be pulled a side and airport security should easily be able to tell whether or not your earring were what set off the alarms.

In addition to jewelry, you will find that your belt may even set off an airport’s metal detector. For that reason, a large number of airports have requested that you remove your belts before entering the metal detectors.  Since a large number of travelers wear belts, this is done to help speed up the process of checking each and every passenger. If you do not enjoy removing some of your jewelry or removing your belt, it is advised that you leave those items at home.

Recently, a number of new air travel rules have been implemented. One of those rules requires that all passengers remove their shoes.  Your shoes, once removed, will be scanned by an x-ray machine, right along with the rest of your carryon luggage.  In recent years, only random passengers were asked to remove their shoes, but now everyone is. For that reason, you will to wear simple shoes that you can easily remove and put back on.

Another air travel rule, recently implemented, is the ban of liquids.  This means that adults are no longer allowed to bring a drink onboard, even bottle water.  It also means that you are prohibited from placing liquid beauty supplies in your carryon luggage.  One concern, made by many women is the allowance of gel or water filled bras. Currently, you are allowed to wear these types of bras onboard an airplane.  Honestly, unless you mention it to airport security, there is a good chance that they would never even know.

Since there are really no rules or restrictions on the clothing that you can wear while flying the great skies, you need to choose for yourself. Whether you want to be fashionable or comfortable, it is all up to you.

quarta-feira, 15 de dezembro de 2010

Airport Security Checkpoints: What You Need to Know

In recent years, as well as recent months, air travel rules have changed.  If you are planning on flying, you will find that most of these changes have occurred right at airports, namely airport security checkpoints.  If you are about to head off to catch a flight, whether you leave tomorrow or in two weeks, it is advised that you famialrize yourself with these new air travel rules, namely the ones that are enforced at airport security checkpoints.
When it comes to airport security checkpoints, there are many passengers who only think of one checkpoint, but the reality is that there are actually three.  The first checkpoint is when you go to register for your seat on the plane. This is the time when you will be presented with your boarding passes and when you must hand over the luggage that you would like checked.  In addition to handing over your plane tickets or requesting your boarding passes, you will need to show the proper forms of identification. These items most commonly include a driver’s license or a government issued identification card. 
Once you have received all of your boarding passes, for all of your flights, you will need to hand over your luggage that you will be leaving below in the plane. These bags are commonly referred to as checked baggage or checked luggage.  As with your carryon luggage, your checked baggage will need to be checked for prohibited items. In the past, only a small number of bags were hand checked, but now almost all are.  Many of these checks are quick look-overs, but you may be subject to a random, extensive search. This search often includes the checking of all baggage compartments, as well as the wiping of a cloth, which is looking for powdery substances. 
When you have been cleared to the next stage, you will need to go through the main airport security checkpoints. This point is where you will be required to have your carryon luggage scanned by an x-ray machine. You will also need to walk through a metal detector. In the past, only random travelers were asked to remove their shoes for checking. At the current time, all air travelers, with the exception of those with a disability or hindering medical condition, are required to remove their shoes. Your shoes will be x-rayed, along with the rest of your carryon luggage.
By familiarizing yourself with the items that are banned aboard an airplane, including items that are only prohibited from being stored in your carryon luggage, an unnecessary incident could be prevented. In the event that you are found carrying a prohibited item, certain steps will be taken. Depending on the item in question, you may be required to return the item to you car, discard of it, mail it to your home, or turn it over to airport security.  Ensuring that you leave all prohibited items at home is the best way to prevent this unnecessary tie up, which may cause you to miss your flight.
Once you have been cleared at the main security checkpoint, you will need to go through one more security checkpoint. This is the final step before being able to board your airplane.  When entering the airport terminal, after your airline as granted permission for passengers to board, you will need to present airline officials with the appropriate boarding pass.  As this time you may need to show your identification again; however, it isn’t always necessary. Most travelers are easily able to board their airplane, but you may be pulled aside in the event that you are acting suspicious or drawing unwanted attention to yourself. That is why it is best that you stay calm during all airport checkpoints, including the final boarding stage. 
Perhaps, the best way to ensure that your next flight is as pleasant as it can be is to follow all air travel rules.  Knowing these rules ahead of time, including the screening process, you should ensure that you are able to board your plane and make it to your intended destination without incident.

Eyes on Your Package with Air Freight Tracking

Sending packages is now worry-free with air freight tracking. As long as you have the waybill number with you, you can check the exact location of your shipment when it has not yet been delivered to its destination.
There was a time when people were not too happy with freight services. A lot of issues have been tackled regarding lost, damaged or late packages. This is the reason why freight services are continuously developing their methods of shipment in order to gain and retain the loyalty of their customers.
One of the developments is air freight tracking. This method is made easier now with the use of the internet. Most of these freight services have their own websites already. You do not have to go to their nearest branch just to check where your package is at the moment. The process can be done by just logging into the internet and doing the tracking online.
Tracking packages is only one of the considerations that are important in an air freight service. Another consideration that you should be noted is how your packages are shipped.
Air freight shipment comprised of 3 main categories based on the mode of shipment.
1. Cargo planes.
Major air freight companies like UPS and FedEx own various kinds of cargo planes. These planes are exclusively used for their air freight services.
One of their largest cargo planes is a Boeing 747. It can hold up to 30 pallets of packages in the main level alone. They have special containers available for those who are shipping animals and other live cargoes.
Cargoes and packages are loaded using rollers which are built-in into their load floor area. Once the packages are brought into the rear of the plane, it will be rolled straight up to the rear or the front of the cargo hold.
2. Super cargo planes.
These planes are also called the super transporters. They are specially designed to hold all moving huge and heavy cargos. Helicopters are being transported this way.
These planes can hold up to 47 tons of loads. It is built with a large cargo area that fills up most of the space inside the plane. Large cargos can fit effortlessly through the giant door located at the front of the cargo hold.
3. Passenger cargo planes.
Almost all passenger planes carry freight with them together with passengers and all their baggage. One of the major companies that are using passenger airplanes to ship their packages is the US Postal Service. It can be noted that a percent of the revenue that is generated by airlines are from air freight.
Packages are put together will all other packages and baggage in the compartment area.
These are the methods of shipment that is being used by air freight services. Knowing what method your service is using is important if you want to know how you packages are being handled and shipped.
Moreover, the mode of air freight tracking is dependent on the schedules and the strict compliance that each cargo methods.
If you want to make sure that you package will arrive safety and on time, pick the best method that you think will give you the best service. Choose the one with the best air freight tracking service. This is your assurance that you will have complete track of your package until it arrive at its destination safely.

Know the Costs and Know How To Save on Air Freight Shipping

Air freight shipping, in most cases, is fairly complicated when it comes to pricing. But there are of course some areas when all you need is to look at the price list and voila- your parcel is already in mid air.
Letters and parcels are often priced based on the weight, size and the service level the shipper chooses. These are often fixed and seldom would one find great discrepancies in pricing. But as for air freight shipping prices, it is no good to be surprised at how high one item can cost.
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association has provided a system of pricing shipments known as the National Motor Freight Classification. This works on the principle of creating classes for items and for each class are some general prices.
Items are basically grouped into various types to make listing easier. This grouping is based on qualifications like loadability, mixed-environment appropriateness, density and a number of other factors. In general, freight classes apply to all items- from express letters to huge machineries including helicopters and planes. Freight classes range from 50 to 500.
Freight shipments are rated by means of "per one hundred pounds" parameter. However, other air freight forwarders make use of per hundred weight system and cwt.
Each freight class is able to provide discounts on the base rate. Plus, there is always a discount given on the transportation rates.
Nevertheless, such discounts can be set off by charges that are often treated as accesorial yet crucial to the base rate that would later come up for the shipment. The most commonly found accesorial charges and surcharges are discussed below.
To save on these charges, it is best to know your grounds first and study in full the terms and conditions of air freight shipping as provided by the freight company.
Lift gate- When there is no forklift or loading dock available, a lift gate service is billed to help drivers load and unload the shipments for residential pickups and deliveries or commercial pick up and deliveries. To avoid complications during the process, it is best that you notify the air freight service provider in case you see the need of a lift gate since trailers are rarely equipped with this item.
Additional fees in reconfiguring routes- Most air freight shipping are designed to follow a route of some sorts. If you require the company to take another route apart from what is earlier set, they would most likely charge you with additional fees for this extra work.
Extra charges on inside pick up and delivery- When you need to have your shipment picked up or delivered inside an establishment or a building, this will impede the carrier to finish his route on schedule. Thus, to set off the expenses they are likely to use, carriers will require you of some additional charges.
Residential pick up and delivery- To off set the costs incurred for transferring shipments to smaller trailers, most air freight shipping companies require extra charges on residential pick ups and deliveries. This is the case since most local laws restrain larger sizes of trucks from entering residential areas.
There are literally hundreds of possibilities for extra payments that would stock up on your final bill. For Less-than-Truckload and Truckload shipments, it is advisable that shippers seek for intermediaries who would not only guide them through the process but would also realize for them some forms of savings.

Your Guideline for Choosing the Type of Air Freight Services You Need

One's choice of air freight must be dictated by their immediate and long term needs which maximize the services provided by air freight companies. Obviously, one only has to avail of certain services that he truly needs.
There are various types of air freight services specially designed for specific purposes. While many may perform multiple objectives, it is still best not to tax yourself with money and time just by choosing the service that you don't actually require.
Since not all packages have the same size, weight, type of delivery and duration of delivery, air freight industry has created various methods and categories wherein customers may choose their needed type of service. In this article we would try to discuss in brief the various air freight services that you may choose from. Please read on.
The simplest form of cargo shipment falls under the household goods category which include items such as furniture, house accessories and pieces of goods similarly typed in this section. Since these don't normally require special services, your cargo may be delivered on the same day it was sent or depending on the service option chosen.
The second class of air freight is the express or overnight express delivery. These normally cover items such as mail letters, small envelops and other smaller items. Since they are relatively light, cargoes of this kind come in air freight company packaging. Two of the most notable air freight company rendering this service are the FedEx express and the UPS.
Depending on the available service options, prices and type of delivery may vary including the duration of travel. Most items in this category travel some distance through air and may go coast to coast in a couple of days or overnight.
The next category available is the ground or parcel shipment. Since items in this type are slightly larger and heavier than the first two categories, the shipping of items may take a number of days and may move anywhere from 500 miles a day to 700 miles. Most ground shipments weigh around 100 pounds or less and each item don't normally exceed 70 pounds.
Depending on the service provider, parcel shipments may either travel by road, rail and air. However the latter is rarely offered.
This shipment covers most of the business-to-customer type of service and is often used by companies that make use of cash-on-delivery system of purchase.
When you need is the service of shipping much larger and much heavier stuffs, you might want to look into your options covered by the freight shipments.
Less-than-Truck-Load is the service that you must avail if you have cargoes of less than 15 000 pounds. Most shipments of this kind cover business to business shipment and are often referred to as motor freights.
This type of air freight service often comes in mixed freight environment which means that cargoes are combined with some other shipments and can be transferred from one carrier to another, depending on the type of service the shipper has chosen.
Shippers are required to arrange for their packaging since most air freight carriers don't give any form of assistance in packaging the cargoes.
Meanwhile, Truckload Freights are the largest of this kind. They go anywhere from 15 000 pounds to 43 000 and length can extend up to 53 inches long.
This type of shipment is often mixed with other shipments in one equipment and arrives at the exact trailer they were shipped on.

How Does Air Freight Service Works

Our present day living is driven by the need to communicate, to be informed and to send various items worldwide. And due to time constraint and the immediate necessity to transfer everything in the fastest mode of transportation available, the airline and cargo industry devised ways of carrying cargoes while maximizing time incurred during the process.
Cargo shipment by air is now termed to as air freight service. Items shipped at this mode range anywhere from a couple of pounds to as much as 43 000 pounds. Therefore accommodating almost all items that need for immediate shipment.
Parcels and express letters are typically the easiest to ship due to relatively handy size and weight. For larger-sized items however, various methods of shipment are required for travel and services vary depending on the number of categories including:
§ The size and weight of the item
§ The duration (number of days) required for shipment
§ The type of item
There are four basic categories for shipments namely:
a. Household goods which cover items such as furniture and the likes.
b. Overnight express or express shipments that deliver personal and business items which are observably lighter and smaller in size. These often come in the packaging of the carrier or the service provider and are often delivered overnight or within a couple of days, depending on the choice of service the shipper agreed on.
Parcel delivery, on the other hand, covers those items that are typically boxed. The services vary and packaging may be provided by the company or should the shipper chooses, may be shipped on the box of their own.
The duration of delivery varies yet typical of this kind is the speed of 500 to 700 miles per day, providing it a coast to coast travel of around 4 days.
Beyond this types are the LTL and TL freights. These are the actual air freight services and obviously cover cargoes that need big-time shipments.
Items covered in this category often weigh 15 000 pounds to around 43 000 pounds and have lengths not exceeding 53 inches long.
For each type of service level comes different corresponding prices. Parcel and express packages have pretty simpler system of pricing as compared with cargoes covered in the Less-than-Truckload-Freight and Truckload Freight which have more complicated systems of pricing.
National Motor Freight Classification is the system of pricing that monitors and dictates what price must be given to each item depending on its loadability, density, mixability and a number of other factors.
Theoretically, fragile items require higher costs of shipment since they fall in the freight class 125 to 500.
Denser items such as industrial machineries and steel require lesser care yet take most of the weight falls under the freight class 50 to 85.
Generally, these freight classes have assigned prices for which the assigned class corresponds to the base rate given.
While most air freight service providers can be contacted directly, heavier cargoes require freight brokers for easier arrangements and for the facilitation of savings. Such brokers can be contacted through online marketplaces. They have the hand for directly arranging shipments at much lower rates since they act as intermediaries between carriers and shippers.
It is good to remember that when shipping cargoes with any type of air freight service chosen, you must know in full all the terms and conditions included.

Factors that Affect the Air Freight Rate

As with all expenses, air freight rates change all the time. This is because of the fact that many factors affect the pricing of various services and resources used in air freight. Learning about the different factors affecting the air freight rate could help you anticipate changes in the rate. This means that you will be able to maximize the costs of shipping.
What factors affect air freight rates?
1) Demand – demand affects the prices of everything. The more that people want to obtain a certain service, the higher the cost is going to be. This is the basic principle of economics. When the demand for certain shipping services rises, the air freight rates rise with it.
Demand determines the willingness of a company to part with its product. Demand determines the price because hey, if people are willing to pay more for your product, then you would be willing to sell it at the highest possible price, right?
2) The containers – the shipping containers, also known as the Unit Load Devices are designed to protect your cargo from the damages caused by the journey. Different items require different containers. If you are looking for a special container to protect your items, it could add a bit more to your air freight rate than what you anticipate.
The containers used in an air freight service are usually suited to different types of cargo. This means that the type of item you are shipping will affect the air freight rates. If you want to include additional security measures to protect your cargo, then you would have to pay more money. This is often applicable if you are shipping pets, livestock, or works of art.
3) Manpower – the amount and specialization of people required to ship your products will also affect the air freight rate. This means that the type of service you require will change the air freight rate. Do you wish your items to be handled by experts who will take care of your items, then you might need to add some cash in order to cover the additional manpower.
Manpower also includes the various people who will handle the paperwork of your cargo. Obviously, it will take the expertise of more than one person to make sure that your cargo remains as safe as possible.
4) Speed – this factor is second only to demand on its effects on the air freight rate. It is often the case that companies have different air freight rates based on the speed by which they can deliver your items. There are companies which offer faster delivery services for additional charges. There are companies who can deliver your items in one day, and some companies can even deliver your goods within a few hours.  The speed of delivery is very important because it is often the case that customers stick with an air freight service because of the speed by which they can get the job done.
Of course, there are many more factors that affect the air freight rates charged by various companies. These main factors, however, should prove to be enough information in order to help you save a lot of cash. When you study these factors, you would be able to budget your money easier and thus, maximize your resources. This means that you can ship more goods at lower air freight rates.

A Historical Look at the Air Freight Industry

During the early years of aviation, people were constantly looking for practical uses of airplanes. People were amazed with the machines that enabled men to fly, but the question of what to do with them plagued everyone’s mind. Of course, the uses for airplanes could not be limited to entertainment, because that would be wasting the huge potential of the technology on a pretty superficial industry. The air freight industry began with the journey of a bolt of silk from Dayton to Columbus, Ohio in November 1910.
That fateful trip gave birth to the airfreight industry as we know it today. After that event, everything just progressed to new heights for the air freight industry. One of the pioneers of the air freight industry is American Railway Express. The name of the company points out to the fact that before the advent of the air freight industry, cargo was usually transported by train.
The airfreight industry made a lot of conveniences possible. First, there was the matter of speed. Air freight sped up deliveries between businesses. This means that the air freight industry made it possible for businesses to acquire various merchandise when they needed it. This also saved a lot of money on storage. Before the advent of the air freight industry, businesses had to keep as much stock as possible. This helped them to meet orders in time. Because of the introduction of air freight, businesses could just fly in any merchandise.
During the 1920’s, shipping of cargo via air grew more popular. In November 14, 1926, the National Air Transport Company was born. This company delivered the first air cargo in the United States in September 1, 1927. Many more companies were founded as promoters of the air freight industry. As the industry was still relatively young, these companies did not make much profit.
The air freight industry got to a slow start because of the fact that they had stiff competition coming from passenger carriers. Many established passenger carriers opposed the establishment of an all-cargo air freight industry mainly because they feared it would destabilize the air industry.
Another reason why the air freight industry did not grow as people hoped was that most businesses were unable to sustain the huge losses associated with starting an air freight operation. While some people attempted to remedy this by combining air freight with air passenger transport, they only succeeded in slowing down the industry.
The revolution of the air freight industry came about when a man named Fred Smith noticed that the common practice of combining air freight with passenger freight was highly inefficient. He proposed that air freights should have different flight patterns from passenger flights. He was successful in gathering funds mainly because of his proposal for a guaranteed next-day-delivery service. And so it was that in April 1973, the Federal Express began operations. Of course, the initial years of business were hard. However, after three years of flying cargo, the company was beginning to show profit.
By the 1980’s, Federal express was a household name. This just goes to show you how far a truly great idea can take you. Today, the air freight industry is booming and companies make millions of dollars in profits. That’s a far cry from the way that air freight businesses lost money in the past.

The Success of the Air Freight Forwarding Industry

The Birth...
Even before, flying has been an innovation. Humans before couldn’t imagine of a time without journey. All they wanted was to fly. That’s why airplanes were born.  Eventually, technology made it a reality for people to ride on the airplane near the pilot. People became restless that they started thinking of some beneficial ways where they can use the plane.
 It was on the year 1910 when the idea that a plane can be used to carry shipments began. History revealed that a bolt of silk was the first to be shipped in a plane. The shipment was carried from Dayton to Columbus in Ohio. This was said to be the first demonstration of the air freight.
In 1919, another shipment took place. A converted bomber was shipped by the American Railway Express. The cargo was 1100 pounds, and was transported from Washington D.C to Chicago. Unluckily, the plane and the radiator froze had to land in Ohio. However, that didn’t hinder the people from using the plane as freight carrier.
During the late 1920s, more airlines operated as freight carrier.  The creation of the freight carrier was used for American business only. The air freight had helped them not only in making the transportation of merchandise rapidly but also the fast pace of the process. 
Undeniably, the primitive stages of the air freight business made a remarkable growth.
By the year 1927 to 1931 the number and size of the shipments had increased from 45,000 pounds to almost a million pounds. Though there were some effort at planning and organizing the air freight business, the commercial air freight did not operate until World War II ended.
The top 4 known airlines namely: American, United, TWA and Eastern formed the Air Cargo Inc. The primary mission of the company was to pick up and deliver cargo. 
The Air Cargo was active until the end of the world. But in 1944, United and TWA began to be independent and had their own air freight business.
 There were lots of small plane owners who wanted to part of the air cargo industry but were not accepted. The big airlines didn’t like smaller airlines to operate in the business. One reason for that was the possibility that the small airlines might screw up the constant status of the industry. Another reason was the former didn’t want to be involved in a competition.
Unluckily, those small plane operators who tried fell by the pavement.  There’s only one that survived- it’s called the “Flying Tigers”. The Flying Tigers made it because it carried both military and civilian freight. And it was also known before as the largest in air freight liner industry.
In spite of the good start, the air freight business wasn’t developing that much. It didn’t work well in the business. Until someone in the name of Fred Smith opened up his new air freight known today as the Federal Express.

The Air Freight Industry Today
Federal express has been known today as one of the successful air freight carrier. With the aid of modern technology, it now uses air freight software to be able to provide the needs of the customers. The air freight software is the latest innovation for freight forwarders. It will resolve any problems in the system plus give you excellent and cost effective services.
Today the FedEx or the Federal Express is linked with the (UPS) United Parcel. The two freight carrier is now known to be the most reliable and trusted air delivery services in the country.