Thursday, September 24, 2009

Take a headset with you

Most airlines have entertainment systems onboard. So bringing your headseats will save you some money.

Have a great flight.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Wear clothing with sleeves

Try not to wear sleeveless clothing when you travel. Remember you will be sitting next to another person and you will sweat. I don't think you want to sweat on that other person, do you?

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Don't argue wth the airport securty folks

One sure fire way to delay your trip is to argue with the airport security team. If you believe you are being treated unfairly, just record names visually, try to remember all the details and either talk to a supervisor at the time or ask for the contact information for customer comments.

You can also check the airport web site for contact information as well. Whatever you do, do not yell and scream as you may be arrested.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Make a note of what items you use on your next trip

When you take your next trip make a note of the items you use. If you do not use something, then don't take it on the next trip. You'd be amazed how much space you will have in your luggage on your next trip.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Don't block the bus schedule

When standing at a bus stop, it is essential that you do not stand blocking the schedule for the bus. Remember that others would like to read this schedule as well.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Check-in online

You should check-in online as it saves you time and if you have bags, the bag drop line at the airport is much shorter.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Check local laws before you go

If you are going to a foreign country with a specific task in mind, check the local law on that task. For example, if you are on a photographic expedition, check if a permit is required to take photos or film in specific places.

Simple things like is there a jay walking law? Is spitting on the streets allowed, etc. are important.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Check the taxes and fees for car rentals

Before you make that car rental, ensure that you check the fees. Certain airports has really high charges. Some of these charges can be higher than the cost of the rental. Renter be ware.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Check for senior citizens rates if applicable

If you are traveling with your parents or anyone and they are over 65, you may be eligible for senior discounts. Ensure that you check on this as the savings can be quite good.

Note however, that sometimes the special rates may be the same or even better than the senior rates.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Plan accordingly when travelling with older people

When you travel with older people, remember that things may take a little longer to accomplish as they do move slower. Give yourself extra time to arrive at the airport and negotiate your way to your gate.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Look into paying in your local currency when traveling internationally

Check if your hotel/restaurant in a foreign country will charge you in local currency or your country of origin's currency. Also, be aware of what is the going exchange rate as this will determine what to do. For example, usually your bank will charge you a foreign fee for the transaction if it is done in the local currency, but if done in USD there is not charge. So if the exchange rate being used is less than the exchange rate plus the foreign fee your bank charges then it is a good deal.

It sounds complicated, but if you spend a lot abroad, it may be worth it to pay attention and make the right decision.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Use twitter instead of texting

Hey, if you use twitter's Direct message service (DM username) you won't incur any text message charges to your friends. So if you phone has access to twitter, just use that as your communication tool.

You can find me at http://www.twitter.com/mskonfa1990.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Use social media to your advantage

You can use many of the social media schemes such as twitter and facebook to tell the world about your travels. You can also get pretty good tips if you follow the right people as you travel. If you are stuck somewhere, just send a message out asking for help. It should arrive rather quickly.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Always ask for compensation in case of trouble at hotels

If you are staying at a hotel and have any issues with the room, always ask for immediate compensation. If none is given, then upon your return home, send a note to the hotel, explain what happened and see if they will give you some sort of compensation.

Always give them a chance to rectify the situation though. Most good hotels will compensate you without you even asking.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Check the security of your hotel room

Once you've checked into your hotel room, look around and ensure the room is safe. So check the windows, the sliding doors, the main door, etc. If you like you can use the hotel safe or the safe in your room to store your valuables. If someone comes to the door, do not open it unless you know them or are expecting the hotel staff.

Always ask who they are and why they are there before opening the door.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Get a local map on arrival

Once you arrive in a city, get a local map from the Tourist office. This is essential especially if you are not familiar with that city.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Read the contract of carriage

When you purchase a ticket from a transportation provider you should ensure you read the contract of carriage. This is the document that governs your purchase. If you do not have access to it online, you can always call the company and request one.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Don't use the flash while taking the pictures of trains

When taking pictures of oncoming trains, don't use the flash on your camera as it may temporarily blind the driver.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Make damage claims before leaving the airport

If your baggage gets damaged while traveling on an airline, you are required to make a claim before you leave the airport at which it was damaged or within a few hours after leaving the airport. While this may be inconvenient, it is the first step in the process.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Don't ask for favors unnecessarily

When you are traveling, don't ask people to be uncomfortable so that you can be comfortable. Plan ahead so that you can get the amenities that you need to make your trip enjoyable. As an example, don't ask someone to give up their seat so that you an your family can sit together. Book early and call the company providing the service and look after your needs.