Cooler air for Pakistan, as heat wave death toll climbs
KARACHI, Pakistan – A cool wind from the sea and pre-monsoon rains brought the first signs of respite to southern Pakistan on Wednesday as the death toll from a scorching heat wave climbed to 838 – a high figure even for a nation accustomed to sizzling …
Read more on CBS News
New Mexico Coal Plant Owners Settle Clean Air Act Violations
The owners of a coal-fired power plant on the Navajo Nation reached a settlement Wednesday with federal agencies over complaints they flouted rules for permits and violated the Clean Air Act, leading to expanded pollution control upgrades that will …
Read more on ABC News
When booking a hotel, especially if you’re travelling outside the country, it’s wise to book online just for a night and then search for other hotels nearby which offer the best deal. Familiarize yourself with the check-out and check-in hotel policies, most hotels charge extra if you missed the allotted time for this. Skip cabs the moment you arrive to your destination. Practice walking to appreciate the area better, if you have an adventurous blood in you, go for the local transportation available, and also consider the railway system available, if there’s any. In most countries, railways are much cheaper than buses.
The key in travelling on a budget is to know how to spend wisely without sacrificing the experience
cheapest airline tickets
If it is not a hassle for you, bring a travelling buddy especially if you will be on a vacation just for a short period of time, because as the saying goes, a fish stinks after three days. Skip the expensive souvenir shops, take photos instead and let them be your souvenir. It’s also wise to choose local restaurants instead of restaurants with international cuisines, but be prepared to have cash on hand as most local restaurants doesn’t accept credit cards. If you can’t avoid using your credit card, be sure you are familiar with your banker’s exchange rates and other charges, if currency will be an issue.
best western hotels
Now that you have decided on the purpose of your group trip, where you want to travel and what time of the year, you will now be faced with the task of planning your group tour. There will be many questions to answer, lots of details to complete and numerous deadlines to meet. Knowing what to tackle first, what decisions to make and what support you will need throughout both the planning period and on the trip will help make the process run smoothly. The key is to plan far in advance.
frontier flights to orlando
The planning all begins with a timeline. Following are some general guidelines for mapping out the period from when the seed is planted until the departure date. Note: This timeline may differ depending upon your type of group, what destination you have chosen and when you may be traveling.
18 Months Prior to Departure
american airlines tickets
•Who will be invited to participate?
•Determine the approximate length and dates of the trip.
•Begin researching your chosen destination to find out what attractions, museums, theme parks, outdoor adventures, water parks, etc. you would like to attend and the costs associated with each.
•Begin researching transportation, hotels, vacation homes, dining and shopping (if applicable) and the costs associated with each.
•If this is a school trip, talk with the school principal and/or administration to receive their approval.
—
We often wonder if it is really possible to travel affordably, optimizing resources, and nevertheless, enjoying a great vacation.
Whether it’s a weekend, a week or a month’s vacation, there are some simple rules to follow to be able to save time and money and usually have a common denominator: do it all online!
cheap airline tickets
On the web, in fact, is where you will find the best deals for traveling around, however, it is also true that often there are also nice and good scams, so is this case you need to search with caution.
We start from the flight: The main secret is to book early. Booking early, whether it’s a low-cost airline or not, there will always be a savings, sometimes even remarkable. Do not be afraid of airports that are out of the way, there is always a way to take the bus to the center of the city; to note that often the cost of these buses are cheaper when buying return tickets.
kayak car rental
If it is not necessary to travel during the weekend, then I do not recommend it. Traveling during those days is much more expensive and often it is not worth the while for the price difference when compared to week days.
—
A lot has been said about how to get the best airfare. The general theories suggest that travellers should know about the right time of making reservations, be updated about ongoing as well as upcoming discount offers, opt for consolidated hotel plus flight packages, do smart packing and sign up for alerts with leading online travel agencies. These strategies help people to bag the best deals and cut down travel costs.
allegiantair.com flights
There are several other lesser-known tactics, which enhance the probability of getting the cheapest airfare on regional as well as cross-border flights. These strategies are a little unconventional and not so popular. However, reports of a recent study conducted by a leading travel and tour agency reveal that if applied strategically, these tricks help fliers getting a good deal. Bagging low-cost air tickets depends upon several factors, such as smart timing, seasonality, chance, flexibility, type of airline, travel class and availability of information.
The 24-hour Rule
spiritairlines
One of the less popular strategies, which might help in cracking a good deal, is the 24-hour rule. According to experts, sometimes this trick helps in saving a significant amount of money. This theory suggests that after booking air tickets, people should check the airfare of the flight the next morning. It is quite probable that the price of the ticket would have fallen within the span of 24 hours. In such cases, people can cancel their tickets and make another reservation on the new price. Most airlines do not charge penalties for this and those carriers, which do, charge nominal amounts.
—-
If you are looking to save, some time and money then scan the websites of different airlines services and book last minute air tickets to your choice of destination. In fact, cheap business class tickets are ideal for companies that look at various cost-cutting options to minimize their expenses. It is a myth that only advance bookings can be economical!
sacramento flights continetal airlines
In view of uncertain economic conditions, rising shipping costs, expensive supplies, rising equipment and machinery prices and rising employee related costs, companies have no other option but to reduce their expenditure. Given that employees, board members and other staff members of large and small companies travel to international locations for official meetings and business purposes, booking flight tickets at reasonable rates can certainly help them save a huge amount of their money.
skyscanner
Businesses can use this money for further expansion and achieving their targets easily. With nearly all the leading airlines services offering last minute air tickets options, booking tickets at a very short notice has become both effortless. In fact, last minute flight ticket is an excellent option for business and corporate travelers who are looking to network with their prospective and existing clients at various international locations.
spirit flights to phoenix
Travelers can check the websites and book tickets to numerous domestic and international locations and get special and discounted flight tickets in no time. So, if you are in a hurry for hassle-free business trip, then book last minute business class ticket to your preferred destination right away!
—
alaskaair.com
Air travel can be costly and, of course, tiring. Flying business class, however, offers the opportunity to make the most of the journey-a great way to travel and to reach the destination invigorated and stress-free. Business class flights are pampered with top-notch lounges, multi-course meals, Internet accessibility, private screens and entertainment systems. Getting expert advice and travel tips can therefore worth the effort in finding airline deals to make flying experience the best it can be. Flying in business or first class, especially, at a price of an airline deal on a business class seat is very well the Holy Grail of air travel. And there are ways to work the upgrades deals on business class seats.
Airlines’ Own Websites
unitedairlines.com
Airlines’ own websites offer great possibilities to find the lowest available fares on business class seats and they may show many fare options. One of the advantages of finding an airline deal on a business class seat on the airlines sites is that the sale s established directly with the airline. It becomes swell more so when flights are cancelled for it will be easier to negotiate an alternative with an airline agent when ticket is purchased directly with them.
Frequent Flyer Miles Program
cheap flights
The frequent flyer miles program with an “elite” status member offers a better chance with more options and better odds at getting that upgrade for a deal on a business class seat. Using frequent flyer miles for an upgrade to a business class seat offers better value for the miles used compared to using miles to purchase a coach award ticket. Upgrade inventory, though, can be limited. It is best to book as far in advance as possible and be flexible about mid-week travel, if possible. Further, upgrades can be doable days and hours before departure-by being on the waiting list.
—
People generally travel for one of two reasons — business or pleasure. While the business side has declined a bit in the age of instant messages, webcams, and video conferencing, it is still an important part of the travel industry. According to the most recent numbers, corporate trips account for about 35 percent of the U.S. market.
Safety Tips During Vacation
As you might imagine, these folks don’t travel like tourists. They look for and expect different things from their chosen airlines, hotels, and rental car agencies. Since accommodations offer the greatest opportunity for savings, we will talk about the hotel selection process.
The Market
Choosing the right accommodations is easy if you know what to look for. Because they almost always stay in the same establishment, offering the promise of repeat business, hotels absolutely adore corporate guests. Most offer a myriad of special services to lure them in. Conference rooms, wireless high-speed internet, and 24-hour dry cleaning are services most of the top chains offer their working guests. But, travelers would be wise to consider more than mere amenities when it is time to book a room.
What To Look For
First and most importantly, you should make sure the establishment is in a safe neighborhood, and that it is close to the airport. Remember, you are not traveling for fun. You are there to do a job! The faster you can get to the airport, the faster you will get home.
Chicago
It is also important to note that when the establishment is close to the airport, you may not need a rental car. You may be able to take a hotel shuttle service, which will help you save on the trip. It may also give you the option of staying in a nicer establishment since most business travelers have fixed budgets.
—
Services & Amenities
As we mentioned earlier, amenities are important. In addition to high-speed Internet and conference rooms, many of the top hotels have business centers. These fully-functioning offices are equipped with copiers, computers, printers, and fax machines for their guests.
allegiantair.com
If you are planning on wining and dining a potential client, you should also find out if there are a few good restaurants in the area or on the premises. Once again, picking the right hotel is all about convenience and proximity. If the closest eatery is half an hour away, it might interfere with set travel schedules.
A Final Word
To locate an appropriate establishment, it is also important to find one that does not cater to tourists. The reason most corporate travelers prefer hotels by the airport isn’t only because they are close by. Business guests seldom want to see the sights or paint the town. More often than not, they are tired after a long trip and simply want to get some sleep. As a result, it is not only important to select the right establishment, but also the right room. To do so, you should always avoid accommodations near the restaurant, pool, or lobby, since places where people gather are bound to be noisy at all hours of the night and during the day.
inclusive vacation package
Use these simple tips to find the perfect lodging option on your next business trip.
—
Chauffeur Assistance
Guests often need help with transportation. An on-site chauffeur can provide this assistance to transport people to various local destinations, including restaurants, airports, and attractions. Some facilities also offer shuttles to specific local destinations. If you have your own car, inquire about valets in attendance who will help you with parking and retrieval of your vehicle.
Fitness and Relaxation
What to See in New York
Ask about fitness and relaxation opportunities available on site. Many companies have indoor or outdoor pools and hot tubs for guests. You might find saunas and fitness centers available with cardiovascular machines and weights in some hotels, too. Full-service spas may also be an option, with relaxing services such as massages, facials, hair styling, manicures, and pedicures available.
Business Centers
jetblue airlines airfares
Business guests can receive a variety of business assistance. On-site computers may be available for guests to use. These computers will have productivity software installed to enable patrons to perform standard work away from home. Printers, fax machines, speakerphones, and basic office supplies will also be available for guests to use. Ask about secretarial assistance such as typing and mailing. You might even find a conference room available for meetings.
Connectivity and Entertainment
Free high-speed Internet connectivity is complimentary and included with most guest stays. Many facilities also offer movies for entertainment. Ask about DVD/Blu-ray players and a lending library for guests, and you might also find premium movie channels available on flat panel televisions.
porterairlines.com
Many hosts are clean, friendly, and hospitable, but there is no guarantee of good customer service. While most hotels put great stock into hospitality and offering quality service, the same cannot be said for owner-rented properties. Amenities such as coffee pots, luggage racks, toiletries, televisions, and private showers are often not available. If full-service is a requirement, visitors are better off checking into a bed and breakfast or local hotel.
continental.com
While there is definitely room in the hospitality market for owner-rented properties, the national conversation about their disruptive potential is overblown. Hotels will likely continue to be the standard for years to come due to their convenience, reliability, and commitment to hospitality.
—
Nowadays you will find many ads for hotel and hostel accommodations on the internet and the newspapers. But the question is, how do you find a hotel which is according to your budget? With so much information on the internet and ads with seasonal promotions, discount deals and travel related options. It usually becomes confusing and complicated for the traveler to find the best hotel deals.
etihad airways
Luckily, there are many opportunities for you to find the best deals and get a hotel room according to your budget and requirement. The following suggestions will help you plan a perfect strategy for preparing your next trip.
us airways miles
When you pick a destination to visit, you must ponder over more than just the expenditure. Many people only look to reserve cheap lodgings, whereas, many people consider other facts as well like the facilities, personal benefits and convenience. If you are a couple on your honeymoon then your priorities will be completely different from those of a business traveler.
delta airline tickets
If you are on your honeymoon, you may want to stay at a hotel which offers a romantic view or if you are on a business trip you many want to consider the travel time from your hotel to the office. Before you pick a hotel, make sure that you have thought over all these aspects as they are very important.
If you are on a business trip, you can get a reduced price for the hotel room if you book near the place where the event or seminar is taking place. This is a very practical choice and helps as you can stay closer to your office and can walk from your hotel to the workplace conveniently without having any issues.
—
Travelling to a favorite destination should be lots of fun, especially when you have made all the right decisions. The accommodation is of utmost importance and it can actually determine the kind of experience. There are so many accommodation options today ensuring that every traveler finds a package that is suitable enough, regardless of the budget he or she is working with. There are budget friendly hotels and even simpler ways of finding one that will ease travel.
1. Evaluate your budget:
southwest deals to dallas
When you know just how much you can spare for the hotel, it becomes easier to narrow down the search on the available hotels within your destination or desired location. The fact is that even budget-friendly hotels can have all the amenities you find important during a stay and will serve all your needs without weighing you down financially. You can use the internet to make a search and compare between available hotels.
2. The Kind of Accommodation:
To make sure you settle for the best, you should also consider the options available to you in terms of the different kinds of accommodation. There are hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, resorts and hostels to choose from.
—
Whether you are travelling for a family vacation or a business trip in a given area, you will need to get some sort of accommodation. Modern accommodation facilities are carefully designed to make sure they provide you with a nice setting so you feel as though you are at home. You will find hotels with stunning rooms you can rent for your stay no matter how long you are staying. Modern facilities will have everything necessary to make your stay enjoyable, but by looking at a few things, you are bound to make a good decision.
vacation coupons
The facility location – The best will depend on your personal preferences. There are people who would rather stay in a hotel located in the heart of a city, whereas others would rather settle for one that’s set in serene quiet areas for maximized relaxation. The location of your accommodation facility can determine the access you have to areas of your choice, the kind of environment and surrounding you get to enjoy and also the noise levels. It is advisable you choose a location with the potential to complete your stay expectations.
The available amenities – Most modern accommodation facilities will have almost everything you need to have an enjoyable stress-free stay. The most common amenities you will find include coffee makers, toiletries, mini bar, hairdryer, DVD player, flat screen TV, high speed internet and air conditioners. By considering what is offered, you will know exactly what to pack for the stay or what to buy to add to your comfort levels. With so many amenities made available in most hotels, you won’t have to worry about extra expenses during your stay at the facility.
—
Saving money for a long-term rental vacation or transition into life in a different country is essential. We can’t always plan for events or situations that inevitably crop up that cost us money we may not have – saving money before you leave for your long-term trip will ensure that you have a bit of a financial safety net in the event of an emergency.
There are many ways to save money for a long-term rental experience, most of which can be utilized before you even leave home. One common money saving tip is to budget your monthly expenses, and take that money out of the bank in cash. Paying cash makes it easier for you to track how much money you spend every day as you are physically handing over bills and coins. When you get home, transfer the loose change you have from the day into a jar. Although it may not seem like much, all this can add up!
Creating a budget in the months leading up to your long-term vacation can also help you decide where you can cut back on your spending. Drinking one less fancy coffee or eating out a few times less can save you more than a few dollars in the long run. Always keep in mind your goal of your long-term vacation and the amazing things you’re planning on doing there- this will keep you excited to save and on track with your budget!
By planning your long-term vacation early you can cash in on the best vacation rental properties for the best prices. Giving yourself enough time to plan also gives you enough time to research the options you have regarding your long-term vacation; compare and contrast different deals, dates and travel plans to get the most affordable price. Depending on how long you are planning to go on vacation you might also be able to get a long-term vacation rental price that reflects the longevity and consistency of your stay.