Blog

June 14, 2017: Bicyclists traveling the world have a great new friend in warmshowers.org — this world wide community volunteer group (currently 40,000 plus in 175 countries) offers cyclists free hospitality that includes overnight lodging and a hot shower. It’s a chance not only to connect with locals but also build longer term friendships. It’s estimated that 89,000 plus folks yearly hit the road for extended-long distance bicycle treks — lodging opportunities fill up quickly so make plans and contacts well in advance. Sounds like a happy way to clean up the road!

June 9, 2017: The US airline industry is under a microscope these days — and rightfully so — for it’s poor customer service tactics — on the ground and in the air. The major carriers are expanding their customer service training to include what they now term Verbal Judo — how to defuse and resolve customer service and overbooking issues without dragging anyone off a plane or creating problems in the gate area. A big part of the new program is just listening to what travelers want to say — and maybe even have the airline take responsibility for the problem. No flight experience — on the ground or in the air is perfect — empathy goes a long ways and applies to both sides!

June 7, 2017: Major US carriers are adding more small seats to their lower priced no frills — including fees for carry on — economy seating. Seems somewhat contradictory (and even more uncomfortable) during a time of record revenues and profits? Many planes now have only 2 bathrooms that serve over a 100 passengers in the seating behind business class — those folks still have their own bathroom thank you. Lines are always long, restrooms small, and don’t expect them to be very clean. Maybe along with selling snacks and beverages, airline revenues would increase even more by offering Depends for sale?

June 5, 2017: The British like to travel — especially to the USA — so when asked to rate the worst US airport to fly into it was not a big surprise — New York’s JFK! Congestion — US Customs and Emigration clearance — long lines and short connection times — rated high on their list of reasons. Tough to disagree!

June 2, 2017: Americans have a taste for donuts — over 10 billion of them made in the USA every year. Trending now as the newest donut taste sensation — spaghetti style donuts — combination of pasta and pastry — with flavors like Pop Red Sauce and Carbonara — yearly, over 64 million Americans get their donut fix at Dunkin’ Donuts. Extra garlic on my order please!!

May 26, 2017: If you’re traveling to Seattle the next couple of months, you might want to catch a Mariners game at Safeco Field downtown and enjoy the newest addition to the menu — crisp and crunchy fresh fried grasshoppers.  Said to be popular in Mexico, a cup of the crispy critters is good for you too — gluten free and full of protein.  Maybe dunking in beer will even improve the taste!

May 24, 2017: If you are into virtual reality look — and have the capability — your might have some fun “visually feeling” your destination. Las Vegas, Tourism Australia, Carnival Cruise Line are just a few offering to entice travelers with a 360-degree virtual reality experiences — they want to provide an opportunity for potential travelers to touch, feel — and maybe one day even smell — a holiday before leaving home. Promoters of virtual reality travel say the technology offers an “experience” — although nay-sayers say the technology might set expectations higher than can be delivered!

May 22, 2017: In an effort to prioritize customer relationships, hotels — especially Marriott — are working hard to improve benefits and have guests book direct and not through a booking service (like Expedia) or travel agent. The real reason behind the changes — hotels paid out over $16 billion in booking fees last year and are out to save those dollars by encouraging travelers to book direct — and are willing to offer more if they do. Many are offering exclusive room rates, more points and the ability to pay for other services with points. Book direct and expect “and ask for” more than just free wi-fi!

May 19, 2017: Airlines have started paying attention to how passengers look and dress when flying — leggings (“legging-gate”) recently resulted in some United travelers — traveling on passes — being removed. Here are some “simple” tips to consider when traveling:

• Don’t show up intoxicated
• Show up looking healthy
• Behave yourself
• Follow directions
• Practice good personal hygiene (PLEASE)
• Consider you attire

The enforcement of travel grooming and health is largely at the discretion of airport gate and in flight staff — Southwest will bounce you off a flight if they consider your attire lewd, obscene or offensive. “No shoes — no service” as the saying goes.