Archive for Travel Tips
Dealing with Short Airport Connections 15 May 2018
Have you ever found yourself having to race through an airport to find your next gate for a connecting flight? Many airlines have tight connecting schedules that are considered “legal” (but not necessarily realistic) connections in the industry. If you are concerned about making any of your international flight connections or just want to enjoy a smoother process, “fast track” and VIP services are available at many airports to whisk you away to your next gate, removing any guesswork and stress. Call us to arrange this valuable service on your next trip abroad.
A Few Simple Ideas to Make Your Trip Abroad More Comfortable… 15 Apr 2018
- Pack a few plastic zip-lock bags of varying sizes to help organize a multitude of things from dirty laundry, packing snacks, wet bathing suit, keeping your camera or phone dry, and storing trash.
- Tuck a washcloth into your suitcase as many foreign hotels do not offer one.
- Invest in some decent headphones or at least ear plugs to cancel out plane noise so you can sleep better on long flights. And listening to relaxing music may help lull you to sleep.
- Put an inflatable beach ball in your carry-on bag – can be used as a footrest when inflated or for lumbar support or head pillow if partially inflated.
Packing for the Unexpected 15 Mar 2018
Ever experience arriving at your destination and one or more of your checked bags are missing? This can certainly get your much awaited vacation off to a rough start. If traveling with one or more companions, mingle some of your clothes in each other’s bags so that one of you isn’t left completely in a lurch. Don’t forget a change of clothes in your carry-on bag as well as this can be a life saver.
Complete Travel Itineraries on Your Phone! 15 Feb 2018
Have you heard about Gateway Destinations’ travel app that provides an electronic version of your trip itinerary and documents on your smartphone or tablet? Pocket Travel Consultant gives you easy access to your itinerary while traveling and includes flight notifications, comprehensive destination information and even the ability to send and receive messages with fellow travelers. This complimentary service is an added benefit to our comprehensive paper travel documents. Try this new feature on your next Gateway-planned adventure!
How Will the Real I.D. Act Affect My Travel? 15 Jan 2018
Properly issued I.D. will soon be required for ALL commercial air travel in the U.S. to comply with the Real I.D. Act (new law passed by Congress in 2005 after 9/11). An extension was granted to the State of Arizona for issuing new or replacement Driver License or Travel ID card (if you don’t drive) until October 1, 2020 (originally slated for January 22, 2018). Stricter proof of citizenship documents will be required at an in-person appointment; cost is $25 and will be valid for eight years.
If you want to get a jump on being compliant or if your driver license is up for renewal in the next few years, you may want to apply for the compliant license – MVD will not automatically issue it when renewing licenses. Details for Arizona can be found at: AZDOT.gov/TravelID. Existing license holders can make an appointment online at: ServiceArizona.com.
