Blog

May 17, 2017: A growing alternative to Airbnb is a group called One Fine Stay — the big difference being onefinestay provides hotel like service to individual short term home rentals. A staff member greets guests on arrival and acts as a private concierge offering additional services. They even go so far as to replace the home’s bedding and linen with delux hotel like supplies — including other amenities. And, prior to arrival, they make sure the rental is clean and up to live in standards. Less mystery and chance when booking a more “residential” lodging experience.

May 15, 2017: Beware — car rental companies are looking hard for more ways to increase revenue from renters so rent smart:

– Not taking the refueling option is usually less expensive but more time consuming, and the mileage range between topping off the tank and returning to the return facility is a gray area.

– Drivers are responsible for their own tolls — many areas no longer have manned toll booths so you might need to pay a few dollars (plus tolls) for renting a device, and you get charged a daily rate even if you don’t run up tolls daily — understand the fine print.

May 12, 2017: Seems to be a popular trend — so, if you must, here are some things to consider: select a date far in advance and stick with it — date changes can be expensive and frustrating; consider renting a house — at least as a central meeting and entertainment headquarters — some resorts even have house rentals either on property or local contacts; pick a destination with activities where all family generations can enjoy a good time with lots of options; and consider planning a themed family event one evening — maybe a family talent show — could be the highlight of your reunion!

May 10, 2017: Having more than fully recovered from its long financial and banking crisis, Iceland is now the new “in spot” travel destination. Magnificent scenery, outdoor treks, thermal pools fueled by hot springs, and easy lifestyle are beckoning visitors. Beware though — airfare is inexpensive but lodging and food are very pricey. November-February is best for a chance to view the northern lights — but all dependent on weather so no guarantee!

May 8, 2017: The traveler who starts a political rant; seat kicker (just recline your seat to retaliate); “aromatic” seat-mate; arm rest hog, “pungent” foodie; and the single and ready to mingle traveler. Some airlines are considering adding a “quiet zone” and kid-free zones as part of their seating choices. No class of service is exempt from bad travelers!

May 5, 2017: The “best of the best” for making sure your bag arrives when you do: Virgin Atlantic, Jet Blue and Delta. Worst of the worst — Envoy Air (a regional carrier) and American — not sure “why” the largest carrier in the US can’t perform when it comes to baggage handling?

May 3, 2017: Check out the airport — more and more major airports are adding gym facilities — they say aimed at making “travel more convenient and pleasurable.” Some times gym size requires limited access to keep from getting too crowded. Look for day rates or annual memberships if you’re going to be a regular!

May 1, 2017: Great family ice cream fun — from real ice cream exhibits and tasting to ice cream themed art — recently opened in downtown LA’s trendy art district and is setting attendance records.  What fun kids can have swimming in a pool of real ice cream sprinkles to tasting a variety of ice cream pancakes. Set for a limited run through May — and now being extended into the summer — tickets ($29 adults/$18 kids) are a hot item and need to be purchased in advance. Parents sometimes complain that it’s a messy visit — but who cares if the ice cream is good.  Don’t let this unique family opportunity melt away!

April 28, 2017: More problems for United — Simon, the soon-to-be-crowned “world’s largest bunny” expired on a flight from London to Chicago — the 3 foot plus bunny was given a clean bill of health prior to leaving Heathrow for the US but was not so lucky when the flight arrived and his plush cage removed from the plane’s cargo area. The 10 month old bunny, already in position to be noted in the Guinness Book of World Records, was headed for his new home and owner in the US. Pet lovers and bunnies worldwide are irate and “thumping” United for an explanation.

April 26, 2017: Budget carrier Norwegian Air sold 20,000 tickets to various European cities in just 3 days — with one way tickets to Ireland as low as $65 each way — BUT — with some travelers paying more than $800 dollars with numerous add ons. And watch carefully US departure cities (Newburgh, New York?). Check out Ireland’s Air Lingus — usually has the best deals with a mandatory stop in Ireland — well worth a visit!