When a Cruise Line Changes Your Itinerary

Consumer surveys show that cruises have one of the highest vacation satisfaction ratings. They appeal to a wide range of interests and can meet a variety of budgets. When planning a cruise, it’s essential to understand the cruise line’s policy and your responsibilities and entitlements. The cruise line can change your itinerary at any time before and during your cruise. You can avoid having your…

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Traveling to the Caribbean During Hurricane Season

Traveling to the Caribbean during hurricane season can save you money while enjoying fewer crowds. Mid-April to mid-December is considered off-season in the Caribbean, and six of those months are during hurricane season. If you’re willing to take a risk on the weather cooperating, you could experience a great vacation for a lot less money. Lodging, transportation, and island activities are…

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Rip Currents: Danger at the Beach

Rip Currents: Danger at the Beach

Some of the most popular beach destinations have an unsuspecting danger – rip currents. Rip currents are strong, narrow channel of water that moves out to sea at about eight feet per second. They are the number one danger at the beach and account for about 80% of lifeguard rescues in the U.S. alone. They are the cause of drownings worldwide. You can keep your beach vacation safe by knowing how to…

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Is Travel Insurance Necessary?

Is Travel Insurance Necessary?

A question many travelers ask is whether travel insurance is necessary.  Travel insurance is like any other insurance — if you don’t need it, it’s an expense you wish you didn’t have — but if you do need it, it will be a welcome relief. If you are planning a trip abroad or an expensive trip within the U.S., travel insurance is worth investigating. There’s a common complaint among travelers. They…

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How to be Prepared for Medical Emergencies While Traveling

Medical emergencies that happen while traveling can be costly and stressful if you’re not prepared. Planning for that slim possibility that you could become ill or injured may not be on your list — but it is a necessary consideration.

The fast-spreading Coronavirus serves as a reminder that the unexpected can happen without notice. This rare occurrence brought the world to its knees. Travelers…

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Avoid Becoming a No-Show on Your Flight

Avoid Becoming a No-Show on Your Flight

When a passenger is listed as a no-show by the airline, not only do they miss out on their outbound flight, but their remaining flights are affected as well. The airlines classify a no-show as a passenger who arrives late or does not show up for their outbound flight. This creates a domino effect, and all subsequent flights, including their return, are canceled and no refunds are issued.

This…

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Holiday Air Travel: How to Reduce Your Frustration

Holiday Air Travel: How to Reduce Your Frustration

Traveling by air for the holidays can be stressful and has been described as “a real pain.” You’re excited about seeing family and friends, but the getting there is the tough part. The long lines at the airport, unexpected delays, the crowds, and the possibility for inclement weather can test your patience. As one traveler put it, “If only I could go to a transporter room and beam myself to where…

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Airport and Airline Accommodations for those in the U.S. Armed Forces

Airport and Airline Accommodations for those in the U.S. Armed Forces

We honor and respect the men and women serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. In appreciation for their service, airport security has become more accommodating and airlines are offering some added benefits to those in the military.

When military personnel are being deployed, it is a difficult transition for them and their families. In light of this, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)…

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Planning a Cruise During Hurricane Season

Planning a Cruise During Hurricane Season

If you are planning a cruise during hurricane season, be prepared for some possible changes in your cruise itinerary, should a hurricane decide to hit.

The cruise lines rarely cancel a cruise but instead will make any adjustments needed to avoid the hurricane. The ports of call may be changed or eliminated, the departure/return dates may be altered, and the duration of the cruise could be…

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Travel Insurance Coverage: 13 Things Your Policy Won’t Cover – SmarterTravel Think you've got comprehensive travel insurance coverage? Think again. Here are 13 things your trip insurance might not cover. Source: Travel Insurance Coverage: 13 Things Your Policy Won't Cover - SmarterTravel

What You Need to Know about Vacation Rentals

What You Need to Know about Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for an alternative to staying in a hotel, a great option to consider is a vacation rental. These are generally furnished apartments, condos, villas, or houses and can be found in many locations throughout the U.S. and abroad. They are usually privately owned and offer more space than a hotel room.

Vacation rentals typically include a kitchen (which is usually fully stocked with…

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Passport: How to Renew/Apply or get an Emergency Passport

Passport: How to Renew/Apply or get an Emergency Passport

If you are planning a trip abroad, check the expiration date of your passport. Many countries will deny entry if your passport will be expiring within three to six months after your departure date from that country.

According to the U.S. Department of State, you should allow at least six to eight weeks (or more during busy travel times) for your renewal or a new application to be processed.…

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What Happens if You Miss Your Flight?

What Happens if You Miss Your Flight?

If you miss or cancel any portion of your plane ticket, you are considered a no-show by the airline. This creates a domino effect. All subsequent flights, including the return, are canceled by the airline and no refunds are issued.

You will then end up having to pay for your ticket — again — since the original ticket will become void. However, there are preventative measures to help you avoid…

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What are your Rights when your Flight is Canceled or Delayed?

What are your Rights when your Flight is Canceled or Delayed?

If your flight is canceled or delayed in the U.S., depending on the reason, it’s good to know what your rights are. By understanding the airline’s contract of carriage, you can make sure you are being treated fairly and will receive compensation or a refund if required.

Your rights during interrupted travel vary by airline. When there’s a flight delay or cancellation, airlines will automatically…

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Prevent Food Poisoning When Traveling Abroad

Prevent Food Poisoning When Traveling Abroad

Becoming ill from food or water contamination when traveling abroad can put a real damper on your vacation. This topic may not be at the top of your list when planning your trip, but knowing how to prevent food poisoning is essential to having a good time.

Here is what you need to know.

The reason you are more susceptible to becoming ill when traveling is that you are exposed to conditions that…

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How to Find the Cheapest Flight for Your Next Trip

How to Find the Cheapest Flight for Your Next Trip

By Tracy Stewart from Airfarewatchdog

Budgeting for you next big trip? The less you spend on airfare, the more you can budget towards dinners, shopping, and other vacation frills. Below, we’ve got 15 tips to help you snag the absolute best fare.

Source: How to Find the Cheapest Flight for Your Next Trip

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How to Enjoy your Holiday Travel

How to Enjoy your Holiday Travel

Traveling for the holidays can bring on a mix of emotions — from excitement to dread. You’re excited about seeing family and friends, but dreading the long lines at the airport, unexpected delays, and the possibility of inclement weather.

Here are some suggestions on how to take the “dread” out of traveling.

Planning your Flights:

Nonstop flights are your best option. Connecting flights may be…

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