| Why use a travel agent? How do I find a good travel agent? How do I know I am getting the best deal? Why purchase Travel Insurance? What time of year is best to travel? What is included in “All Inclusive”? To Cruise or Not to Cruise? Why book my own travel through your website? How can I get information on travel specials emailed to me? What are the current passport Requirements? What do I need to know about airport security? What if I am abroad and an emergency arises? Where can I find information about different travel terms used? Why use a travel agent? Planning a trip today can be confusing and time consuming. A travel agent not only arranges the various modes of transportation, but also may be able to save you money with early booking discounts, special fares, accommodation details and travel advisories. Back to Top How do I find a good travel agent? Choose one like you would a doctor or lawyer. Get advice from friends and relatives who use an agent they trust. Since travel choices are personal decisions that reflect individual desires and lifestyles, you will want to visit or call several agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Back to TopHow do I know I am getting the best deal? Your travel agent will shop all sources available to him/her for the best fares available including internet fares and special negotiated rates. Options are real-time, comprehensive and accurate. Back to TopWhy purchase Travel Insurance? Even the best-planned travel can be impacted by the unexpected; Illness, medical, emergencies, severe weather, delayed flights, lost passports or luggage. Troubles can occur when you least anticipate them forcing you to cancel or interrupt your trip, lose your vacation investment, and incur unplanned expenses. And when you're away from home, things like medical emergencies and illness are even more difficult to manage. Back to Top What time of year is best to travel? There is no specific answer to "When is the best time of year to travel?" Generally speaking, for the lowest prices, you should travel during off-peak season. The time of year must be taken into consideration. The climate of the region, as related to the time of year, is one factor which determines the off-peak season. Another is simply that most people travel in the months of June, July and August due to their job situations and the children being out of school. Also, there is a significant number of people who travel at Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve. Generalized examples of when to obtain the lowest prices: • Caribbean: September, October, November, early December, early January. • Europe: Winter months; with the exception of skiing destinations. • Colorado Ski Resorts: Summer months. Other areas of Colorado: Winter months. • Alaska: Cruise lines and most tour companies only book from May to September due to weather conditions. There is primarily only one season: peak season. • Australia: USA summer months because it is winter in Australia at that time. Back to Top What is included in “All Inclusive”? Book an all-inclusive resort package, and you'll receive accommodations, all meals and beverages, nightly entertainment, access to the resort's facilities, use of all non motorized water-sports equipment (such as snorkeling gear, sailboats, and windsurf boards), and gratuities, higher-end properties, such as Sandals and Super Clubs, often include scuba diving in the cost as well. There may be exceptions. Check the brochure for exactly what is and is not included. Back to Top To Cruise or Not to Cruise? Cruises appeal to many travelers because they are considered all-inclusive vacations. Pay one price and receive accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transportation between island and port destinations. Most cruises do not cover shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities. Advantages of a Cruise: Different ports of call. No need to pack and unpack, take your hotel room with you. Entertainment, Casinos, Spas, Children Programs. Great food, Relaxation at sea. Advantages of an all-inclusive Resort: Relaxed on your own schedule. Most have private beaches to soak up the sun. Use of non motorized water equipment. Gratuities and drinks are usually included in the base price. Back to Top Why book my own travel through your website? You can book car rentals, hotels and air directly from our site getting the best consumer rate available. Best of all, you can book when it is convenient for you, even if it is at 2:00 AM. Back to TopHow can I get information on travel specials emailed to me? By signing up for our newsletter on our homepage, you will be sent our monthly e-newsletter, receive special announcements and travel and sales alerts. Back to Top What are the current Passport Requirements? Please visit http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html for valuable passport information.Back to TopWhat do I need to know about airport security? Please visit our Airport Security page for comprehensive information provided by TSA. Back to TopWhat if I am abroad and an emergency arises? The best way to protect yourself is to purchase travel insurance for your trip. In addition, you can find important information, travel alerts and warnings at http://travel.state.gov/travel. Registration at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate (in the country you are visiting) makes your presence and whereabouts known. Always be sure to take important U.S. Embassy contact information with you and carry it on you at all times. There are some great brochures available at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1231.html. Back to TopWhere can I find information about different travel terms used? You can find several commonly used terms right here at our website by visiting Travel Terminology. Back to Top |