How to Avoid Soaring Flight Costs

Penny-pinching travelers beware:  those airlines that have been nickel-and-diming you to death are not changing their tune any time soon.  In fact, two commercial carriers recently announced amendments to their current policies that may put a real dent in your wallet. Discount airline Southwest will no longer accommodate passengers who fail to show up on their given departure date.  The carrier is launching a new “no show” policy that forces travelers to forfeit their fares if they fail to show up for a flight.  Southwest officials say they instituted the change so that planes are not taking off with empty … Continue reading

Flying Fees Add Up Fast

Think you have enough money saved to fly to your niece’s upcoming college graduation?   Add up the litany of airline fees and you may be forced to drive to the commencement ceremonies. These days the cost of an airline seat is only part of what you will likely have to pay before you take flight.  Most carriers are making a killing by charging hefty baggage fees on domestic flights.  On average, you can expect to fork over $25 each way for your first checked bag and between $30 and $35 for the second.  Think about how deep you have to … Continue reading

The Cost of Flying is Soaring

I have written extensively about the increasing cost of fuel and its affect on the travel industry. If you haven’t already purchased plane tickets for your summer vacation brace yourself for some serious sticker shock. Last week United Airlines raised fares in the United States and Canada by up to $30 round-trip in an effort to combat high fuel costs. Less than 48 hours later several other carriers followed suit including American, Delta, Continental and Northwest, which raised domestic round trips by $10 to $20 per ticket. Times are so tough that even discount airline Southwest raised its rates–twice. Last … Continue reading

Ways to Save on Summer Vacation—-Don’t Get the Massage

For the past several weeks I have been providing tips on how you can preserve your family’s summer vacation plans despite astronomical airfares and record high gas prices. The following tidbits are aimed at helping you save on the road as well, though one is a bit more tongue-in-cheek than the other. These days talk of a recession is on the minds and lips of practically every financial expert paraded on cable news shows; however there are some people in the world who don’t have to worry about pinching pennies during these tough economic times. And no doubt some of … Continue reading

Got Kids? Saving Money on the Road

Who says the only lodgings that embrace families are the ones where “Kids Eat Free” signs hang above the entryway? With the cost of gas soaring, house prices falling and the word “recession” appearing on newspaper headlines from coast-to-coast hoteliers are getting creative to lure families with children to their properties. The following cost-saving travel packages are not only easy on your wallet, but they are also packed with kid-friendly activities that will truly make your vacation on a shoestring a memorable one. DENVER The 196-room JW Marriott Denver at Cherry Creek is currently offering their Kids in the City … Continue reading

Adventures By Disney: China

Upon exiting customs in Beijing, an Adventures by Disney representative will meet you, escort you to your transfer vehicle and assist with your luggage prior to escorting you to The Peninsula Beijing Hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax and adjust to the change in date and time. That evening you’ll meet your fellow adventurers at a welcome reception with a traditional tea ceremony, followed by a classical Chinese dinner. After dinner, you can even dress up in Chinese Imperial costumes and have photos taken. On day two, you’ll enjoy a privately guided tour of Tiananmen Square … Continue reading