Kristy's Tips

1.                 Passports are required for travel outside the US.

2.                 At this time, 4-1-11, you may still sail on a cruise that departs and returns to the same US port, without a passport.  A certified copy of your birth certificate is required and a photo id.

3.                 If you have a medical emergency while on a cruise, you can not fly back into the US for medical treatment, unless you have a passport.

4.                 The price for a passport for an adult is $135.00. It is good for 10 years.  Most major post offices can start the process and take your passport photo.  A passport for a child is $98.00 and is good for 5 years.  BOTH parents MUST be present at the post office. 

5.                 Travel protection can protect you in the event that something happens that prevents you from traveling or you have an illness or accident while traveling.  It will even cover emergency medical evacuation.

6.                 All liquids that will be in carry on luggage, must be in a 1 quart, zip lock bag and each container should be no larger than 3.4 oz.  One quart size zip lock bag  per person.  This bag MUST be taken out of your carry on and placed in the container for inspection. If you pack your liquids in your checked luggage there is no size restriction.  It is still a good idea to pack them in a zip lock bag.

7.                 Shoes must be taken off at security.

8.                 If you have a sweatshirt, jacket or sweater, you must take that off too.

9.                 You should plan to arrive at the airport 90 minutes early for a domestic flight.  Arrive 2 hours early for an international flight.

10.            If you are chosen for a random more in depth screening, just try to relax and go with the flow.

11.            Most airlines charge for checked luggage.  At this time, Southwest does not charge for the first two checked bags pp. Jetblue allows for one free checked bag pp.  Carry on bags  are still free, for most airlines.

12.            Most airlines do not accept cash on board.

13.            It is alright to bring food and drinks on board, if the drinks are purchased after the security check point.

14.            Make your travel plans early. Most airlines have less expensive seats available at first posting.  As those seats sell, the price goes up.  Be sure of your travel plans before making your reservation.  Most airlines charge at least $100 to make a change.

15.            An all inclusive vacation is when the air, resort, food, gratuities, transfers, entertainment and non motorized sports are included.  There is only one all inclusive in the US.

16.            There are adults only all inclusive resorts.

17.            Cruises are available for almost every budget.  One of the advantages of a cruise is being able to explore different countries on one vacation, without packing and unpacking.  You know your cabin accommodations will be good and the food and service is in English.

18.            Usually the services of a travel agent are free.  (There may be a service charge similar to those of the airlines.)  Many of the people who answer the phone at the cruise lines are order takers.  Many have not cruised or been to the various ports.  It is all right to ask questions of your travel agent.  You might ask about certifications and their travel experiences.  This is YOUR vacation.  Make sure the travel agent that is working for you, is qualified.

19.            If there is anyone in your traveling party that has any special needs, you may want to contact a travel agent that has special training in that area of travel.  (kristy@wheelchairescapes.com).