How to prevent acting crazy before traveling….

Posted by Katie Rahr at 15 March 2012

Category: General Travel Information, Travel Experience

I have come to the conclusion that I need to take my own advice when it comes to planning a vacation.  I turn into a crazy person trying to get everything packed, situated with the kids, reconfirming arrangements, wrapping things up at work, shopping, washing clothes, the list goes on and on.  Yes, it will all be worth it.  Just getting there can be a little exhausting, especially when you leave everything to the last minute… like me!  Maybe I like the challenge of getting everything done at the last possible minute, because somehow everything falls into place.  The best feeling is arriving at the destination.  Although it is usually without my underwear, face wash, and comfortable shoes, but that doesn’t matter anymore.  I have arrived!   Ask my sister how many times we had to spend a day of our trip shopping for comfortable shoes!  This has become a tradition.   It’s quite possible that maybe I sometimes forget things subconsciously so I have an excuse to find something new.  My closet has clothes and shoes from New York, Spain, France, Italy, Las Vegas, and even Disney World.   A lot of the clothes that had to be purchased in Spain were because my luggage didn’t make it.  Thank goodness for travel insurance!  This reimbursed the cost of some clothing and necessities that didn’t arrive.

I am getting way off track.  My point was to give you some tips on taking away some of the pre-trip stress:

  • Don’t leave everything for the last minute (PLAN AHEAD)
  • Make a list or get one from your travel agent (include everything you plan on bringing and check them off as packed) Include medication if required!
  • Put your travel documents and trip confirmations with your ID’s (it amazes me how many people forget their airline confirmations and hotel vouchers)
  • Purchase travel insurance (especially when traveling internationally)
  • Begin packing items a few days before you go… at least (don’t wait until the day of)
  • Give family member or close friend your location and phone number of accommodations in case of emergency (give them a photo copy of your documents)
  • Call your credit card companies or set up online travel notification with location and dates of travel, so they don’t red flag your account if they see you are making purchases out of town (assuming it could have been stolen)
  • Use your credit card while traveling and making travel purchases, as most card companies offer additional travel protection
  • Pack comfortable shoes if you are going to be sightseeing and doing a lot of walking (New York, Las Vegas, Europe, etc.)
  • Arrange someone to mow your lawn, snow blow, water your plants, take care of pet if applicable
  • Pay any bills that may be due while you’re gone before you leave
  • Clean out your refrigerator (if needed)
  • Remove the trash from your home
  • Remove clothes from washer/dryer
  • Check your thermostat
  • Arrange your liquid items according to TSA rules
  • Check the weather of your destination
  • Have your deliveries and mail held if needed
  • Call the airline 24 hours prior to departure to make sure there haven’t been any last minute schedule changes
  • Check in online 24 hours prior at the airline’s website

   

Happy Travels!

 

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Do you want to take a Trip or do you want to take a Vacation?

Posted by Katie Rahr at 12 March 2012

Category: Travel Experience, Uncategorized

Tags: , , , , , ,

Do you want to take a Trip or do you want to take a Vacation?

There is a difference.  I don’t flat out ask my clients this question, but ask some “qualifying” questions to determine how adventurous they may be, or if they are looking for a much needed break from the everyday stress of work and kids.   Many couples can’t agree, as one wants to lay by the beach as the other one wants to pack the stay full of excursions.   In this case, we find a compromise that offers relaxation with plenty of activities nearby.  For me, I don’t mind lounging around for a week by a turquoise ocean, but by day 4 I get a little restless and need a day of touring.  (sometimes earlier if my sunblock doesn’t work to its full potential)

However, I have enjoyed many “trips” that educate and have really had the opportunity to experience the culture of another country as a local, or doing the “tourist thing”, getting in as much sight-seeing as possible in the short stay planned.    Either way, what an unforgettable experience to see The Great Wall of China and the Terra Cotta Warriors in China, or the Leaning Tower of Pisa and beautiful Cinque Terre in Italy.   These destinations have so much history!  The United States is so young compared to these countries.   Once you go, you realize what you’re missing out on.   These places can be seen at difference paces.  Some of the options include escorted tours, customized individual tours, cruises, or river boats.  (Of course you will need a flight over there first).

 The older I get, the more I feel the need to explore and make it a goal to see as many places as I can, and even return to share the experience with a loved one.   As you may be able to tell, I’m definitely in the right industry and love my career.  

 

Vatican City

Terra Cotta Warriors

Tiananmen Square

 

Cinque Terre

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Do you want some Magic in your Life? Disney World will do that…

Posted by Katie Rahr at 9 March 2012

Category: General Travel Information, Travel Experience

Tags: , , , , , ,

Disney World is a wonderful family vacation and truly a magical experience.  This may sound cheesy, but it’s true!   Even adults feel like children again upon entering the Magic Kingdom.   There’s something for everyone among the 4 Theme Parks (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot Center, and Hollywood Studios), Downtown Disney, and 2 Waterparks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach).   Planning a trip can be overwhelming to this destination as there is so much to do in little time!  There is no way you can possibly see everything, no matter how long you plan on staying.   Contacting a Disney Specialist can help take the stress away and make the most of your vacation.  I have personally been to Disney World 6 times, and been able to experience the magic as a child with my parents, with friends, and with my own children. 

Allow me to make some suggestions:

  • Book with a Travel Agent (they can piece together a stress free experience)
  • Stay onsite when visiting Disney World (the Value Resorts aren’t much more than staying off site and so much more convenient as all transportation even from the airport is included)
  • Have a tentative plan (especially if traveling with children) on which parks you plan on visiting each day.  Your specialized agent can also map out an itinerary.
  • Make Dining Reservations (especially if you want to take advantage of the Disney Character Dining) *your travel agent can assist with this!*
  • If you are on a budget, visit Disney during off-peak season to take advantage of discounted rates and sometimes complimentary dining
  • Purchase the Disney Dining Plan (this will save 20-40%) as food is spendy once onsite
  • Rent or bring a stroller for little ones (if you have a couple of small children they rent double strollers that are really convenient, even for older kids)
  • Upgrade your room to “Preferred Location” when staying at a Disney hotel (closer to dining, pool area, and transportation)
  • Bring rain gear
  • Book a Princess Package for your little Princess at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or a Knight Package for your little Prince

Your Disney Vacation can be customized for you as a couple, family, destination wedding, family reunion, corporate incentive group, or friends getaway.  With all of the stress in our lives, you deserve a break to Fantasy Land.

I will end with a quote from Cinderella: “ If you keep on believing, the dreams that you wish will come true.”

 

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All Inclusive Resorts in the United States?

Posted by Katie Rahr at 8 March 2012

Category: General Travel Information

Tags: , , , , ,

I read an article earlier today about the possibility of some hotel chains in the United States looking at offering “All Inclusive” plans to guests.   Of course this sounds great to Americans… eat and drink as much as you want upon arrival!  Can we handle this?  The All Inclusive experience is something you can primarily purchase only in the Caribbean and Mexico.  Most of the hotels and resorts in those areas only offer all inclusive stays, which is what motivates Americans to travel to these regions since the plans in these locations can be offered at a very reasonable price.  The traveler that prefers not to do all inclusive may opt for Puerto Rico, Hawaii, or Florida, which has a completely different atmosphere, and most likely the same price tag or even higher than an All Inclusive option.   I believe for a resort to do the All Inclusive option it requires a special staff.   If the U.S. starts to offer all inclusive plans, most likely it would be different than those offered in the Caribbean and Mexico.   For one thing,   I doubt we could find enough individuals to work without being expected to receive gratuities, as most inclusive resorts do include this in the fee.  Also, I assume the type of liquor, beer, and buffets offered would not be as high of quality.  Imagine Las Vegas or Hawaii going 24-Hour All Inclusive.  What would a resort charge for this?  It may make more sense and actually save money to pay as you go as the inclusive option for a week would have to be very high priced.  I guess we will have to wait and see if a property decides to test this out around here!  Maybe we could boost the tourism in Fargo, North Dakota, and offer an All Inclusive resort?

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When it snows, the phone rings… a lot!

Posted by Katie Rahr at 26 February 2012

Category: General Travel Information, Uncategorized

Tags: , , ,

When it snows, the phone rings… a lot!

I have been very lucky this winter (along with my clients) on the lack of delays and cancellations due to weather.  The busiest day yet this year was the weekend of fog.  How crazy to have a halt in air service due to fog in Fargo, North Dakota.  We actually needed the wind to blow on those days.   This has been a rare winter, but an excellent one at that!    It’s just funny how busy our office gets when there’s a chance of snow, it’s below zero, or there’s a blizzard warning.  People are checking out their options on how fast they can be somewhere warm.  And many times they don’t care where!  We are getting the calls (when the temperature drops for the day) thinking maybe they can get in a trip yet this year.

The weather has affected many industries, after talking with different individuals in different fields.  It seems, though, no one is really complaining on the lack of business and enjoying this mild winter wonderland.    I had to stop and think of all of the jobs that were possibly affected by good weather in Fargo this time of year.   My guess is there was less back pain from shoveling and falling (chiropractors and doctors), less people purchasing new tires and having auto repairs (car repair and collision centers), less people buying shovels, snow blowers, and winter wear.

Anyway, I am going to get back to shoveling my driveway as I haven’t had many chances to do that this year, and perhaps even play in the snow with the kids.  Enjoy the snow!

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I Love NYC

Posted by Katie Rahr at 29 December 2011

Category: General Travel Information, Travel Experience

Tags: , , , , , ,

How about a long weekend in New York?  Yes, please!  There is so much to see and do.  When you have your favorite travel professional book your getaway, they can schedule tours, shows, dinner reservations, and make up a tentative itinerary on what to see and do to make the most of your time, as there is no way you will be able to see everything in one visit. 

 Some recommendations I have, to begin with, would be to get a good pocket map or download an Application on your Smartphone that includes the subway maps and layout, as well as streets.  After a day of walking around the city, it starts to make sense and you will quickly be able to navigate from one side of Manhattan to the other. 

 If this is your first trip to NYC, you will want to see the main tourist attractions/landmarks  which may include:

  •  Statue of Liberty (Ellis Island)
  • Southstreet Seaport (Brooklyn Bridge)
  • Ground Zero / 911 Memorial Site
  • Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center)
  • Empire State Building
  • Chinatown
  • Times Square
  • Central Park
  • Broadway Show
  • Museum of Natural History

 If this isn’t your first time to NYC, you may want to experience it differently.  Try walking around some residential areas, find hidden restaurants, a concert in town, or take in a sporting event.  Browse the shops of 5th Ave, and visit the Greenwich Village neighborhoods.  You may also want to discover Chelsea Market and the Meat Packing District! 

 New York can be customized to your pace of travel.  Visit this city for the ultimate cultural experience, where there are as many as 800 languages spoken, making it the most diverse city in the world.  Contact your Travel Professional for more information and to coordinate your next ‘girls getaway’, ‘romantic weekend’, or ‘educational trip’ to The Big Apple.

 

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Las Vegas Customized For Your Vacation Style

Posted by Katie Rahr at 27 December 2011

Category: General Travel Information, Travel Experience

Tags: , , ,

I have been to Las Vegas numerous times over the years, and just wanted to go over some of the best ways to experience this vibrant city!  This is another destination that caters to every traveler, every budget, and vacation style.  It is also a place that many companies worldwide hold their conventions at, as it is convenient to get to, lots of hotel space, and various activities to keep everyone busy.

 Here are some ideas on different things to do for your next trip (besides the obvious casino, golf, and nightclub activities), or your first trip to Fabulous Las Vegas:

  • Evening Lights Helicopter Tour
  • Dune Buggies in the Desert
  • Day Trip to Grand Canyon
  • Lake Mead and Hoover Dam Combination Tour
  • Show (from Cirque du Soleil, Broadway, Comedy, or Limited Head-Liner Events)
  • Shopping (Miracle Mile Shops, Forum Shops, Fashion Show Mall, and more)
  • Exotic Driving School at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin and more)
  • Indoor Sky Diving
  • European Style Pools
  • Spa Day

Contact your Travel Professional for more ideas on how to customize Las Vegas to your Vacation Style.

 

 

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Good Use of Your Deserved Vacation Time!

Posted by Katie Rahr at 22 December 2011

Category: Travel Experience

Tags: , , , ,

The longer I do my job, the more I love it!  I meet such wonderful people.  (This is a ‘Shout Out’ to my clients, you know who you are!)  Over the years I have researched, visited, and coordinated hundreds, even thousands, of trips to various parts of this world.  Good or bad, I like to hear feedback about experiences from everyone’s trip.  And I appreciate every single place I have been, even if I wouldn’t go back – because experiencing cultures, atmospheres, and  different levels of accommodations  is definitely  important in my position, as not everyone has the same likes (and dislikes of course).   I can’t send everyone to the same place!   I try not to let my opinion show through until we have narrowed down and qualified YOU for what your dream trip may be.   The more I get to know you and visit about what you hope to get out of the vacation, the better for all of us.  A well deserved vacation for you, and good feedback for me.

My favorite place to “vacation” in the U.S. is Maui, Hawaii.  No passport required for these islands!  Something about the 80 degree sunny weather every day,  the refreshing trade winds, and that happy tropical feel… it’s worth the long flight.  This destination has so much to offer, and has something for everyone, from romance to family vacations, even corporate conventions or incentive groups.  And…It really is more affordable than you think!

Here is my list of some of the top things to do on the Island of Maui:

1)     Whale Watching (seasonal)

2)     Molokini Crater & Turtle Town Snorkel Cruise

3)     Helicopter Tour (see Hawaii from all angles)

4)     Road to Hana (waterfalls)

5)     Relaxing on the Golden Sand Beach

6)     Sipping a Pina Colada by the Pool

7)     Fresh Pineapple every day for Breakfast

8)     Zip-Lining

9)     Golf (what a view)

10)  Haleakala Crater (amazing)

Stay tuned for more ideas on where you may want to go in the near future!

 

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What Do You Do If Your Luggage Gets Lost?

Posted by Katie Rahr at 28 October 2011

Category: General Travel Information

What Do You Do If Your Luggage Gets Lost?

The question of what to do if your luggage gets lost is quite a hard one. We’ve all heard the horror stories of the airline losing everything you could ever imagine. But something as simple as lost luggage can ruin a trip if not mar it severely. While you tell yourself that you shouldn’t let lost luggage ruin a trip, it has a way of doing that if you didn’t plan for the worst. To help you form a plan for what to do if you have lost your luggage, here is a look at what you can do to not let it ruin your trip.

The first thing to do once you have determined that your luggage isn’t going to come down the carousel is to not panic and don’t get too angry. This happens to thousands of travelers everyday and if you travel enough, it’s inevitable that it’s going to happen to you. Next grab your briefcase and any other carryon items and head to the lost luggage counter of the airport. These can sometimes be a bit tricky to find but they are usually located in the same area as the luggage carousel. If not, airport staff can point you in the right direction. Often times the airline simply miss placed your luggage but it is at least at the right airport. If this is the case they can usually retrieve it fairly quickly. If they can’t find it and determine that your luggage is on a plane Guam you have to quickly come to terms with the fact that you won’t have access to your luggage anytime soon.

The airline will have you fill out a few forms and give you a file locater number which you will use to reference the status of finding your bag. Once your luggage is found they will contact you to get it back to you. Most airlines will actually deliver it straight to your house which is quite convenient. Also, most airlines will reimburse you for reasonable expenses incurred as result of the lost luggage. This means that you can get reimbursed for buying some of the essentials that every traveler needs, but don’t think you can go out and buy fur coats and get reimbursed.

The thing to remember is that you should still enjoy your trip. Your luggage will be found eventually and on the bright side you get to go buy a few new outfits with a guilt free conscience. There are few places in the world with an airport that you won’t be able to find the essentials and while it might not be your exact style, you will be okay.

With these tips you will not only know what to do when you lose your luggage but also how to not let it ruin your trip. Bon voyage!

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How NOT To Look Like A Tourist During Your Trip Abroad

Posted by Katie Rahr at 28 September 2011

Category: General Travel Information

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How Not To Look Like A Tourist During Your Trip Abroad

If you’re an American traveling to a foreign country, one thing that you should not do is to look like a tourist. That is unless you want to be targeted by criminals out to take advantage of tourists or to get sucked into tourist traps. If you want to keep it safe, blend with the crowd and don’t act like you’re not from here. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

Don’t wear athletic shoes

Tennis shoes and sneakers scream American. You don’t have to wear footwear that are extremely uncomfortable just to avoid the athletic shoes. Just don’t wear anything that’s designed for exercise or else, people would know right away that you’re a tourist. In most-countries, open-toed sandals are the safest bet even in areas that are urbanized. You can also go for sneakers that are dark in color and doesn’t have loud logos or designs.

Wear accessories like the locals

Go to a local store and buy accessories that you see the locals are wearing. For example, if in your vacation destination, everyone’s wearing a hat then you should also wear one. It would be smart to research regarding this matter so you know what you should wear during your vacation.

Don’t wear American brands

There’s nothing wrong with wearing Nike, Gap, or any other American brand while you’re abroad. But as much as possible, stay away from shirts that have a massive logo or name of the brand. Also, don’t wear clothes that have slogans that are very American such as What Happens in Vegas, I Left My Heart in San Francisco, and so on. You get the drift. Even tourist shirts are not ideal either. For example, if you’re visiting Paris, if you’re going to wear an Eiffel Tower souvenir shirt, this would be a sign signal that you’re a tourist since tourists don’t really wear their own souvenir shirts.

Avoid hanging your camera around your neck

This is annoying even in your local country. Hanging your camera around your neck and shooting while you’re walking in the streets is a big no-no. Unless you want to get mugged or kidnapped, it’s best that you confine your photo taking in tourist spots areas where there are also other tourists taking a lot of photos. Keep your camera inside a normal looking bag. Don’t carry around a camera bag. Put the camera bag inside a backpack.

Never look at your map in public

This is a common mistake that many tourists make. You should never do this. Before you leave the hotel, study your map in advance. If you do need to consult the map while you’re outside, look for a store or any other place that’s more private. You can also choose maps that are pre-folded so they can easily be read.

Now that you know the tips on how not to look like a tourist during your vacation, the next thing you need to do is to prepare for the trip. One of the things that you need to organize for the vacation is the international travel insurance such as the international health insurance.

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