Archive for Travel Tips

How Far in Advance Should I Make Travel Plans? 15 Nov 2019

I often get this question and have to say that it varies with your destination and travel dates but the quick answer is well in advance, especially if you are traveling to Europe.  Demand for Europe is at an all-time high so preferred hotel and cruise space fills up quickly.  Consider at least one year in advance and up to two years for a river cruise to obtain the best pricing and desired cabin location.  Popular ocean cruises should be reserved 8 – 10 months in advance for best pricing.  If a better price comes along later, rest assured I will be notified through my Cruise Tracking program and will reach out to the cruise line to request that this savings be extended to you.
Flights can’t be purchased until 11 months before travel and pricing can vary considerably based on the time of year and week (and other factors).  Rule of thumb is if you find a good price for your flight, buy it because it will likely increase!
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Do You Need CLEAR or TSA Pre-Check, or Both? 15 Oct 2019

Have you been noticing CLEAR being promoted in your airport lately and wondering what it is all about?  It is simply a way to expedite confirming your identity and may be handy for frequent air travelers but it comes with a hefty price tag – $179 per year.  It does NOT replace TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry but can be used in conjunction with either one.  Simply go through the CLEAR line first and have your identity checked biometrically (fingerprint or iris scan), then go to the front of the regular security line or TSA Pre-Check line (if you also have this service as it will read it on your boarding pass).  There is no need to show your driver’s license or passport during this process.

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What is Signature Travel Network? 15 Sep 2019

Gateway Destinations has appreciated its affiliation with Signature Travel Network since its inception in January 2007.  But what are the benefits to you as a traveler?  Here are just a few…
  • Offer over 1,000 premium and luxury accommodations worldwide that have been personally visited and approved by an STN executive – include daily breakfast, complimentary room upgrade and early check-in/late check-out upon availability, and at least one additional value-added amenity.
  • Collection of vetted and financially stable Destination Specialists and Tour Operators offering expertise in all destinations and types of travel.
  • Highly competitive cruise pricing and Signature Travel amenities included on many sailings as well as “Cruise Track” service to watch for subsequent promotions after booking.
  • Informative travel information on a complimentary basis such as The Travel MagazineUltimate Experiences and Ultimate Values online magazines.
What does all of this mean to you?  Peace of mind that you are in good hands!
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Is Travel Protection Worth the Cost? 15 Aug 2019

Not really clear about the benefits and if buying travel protection coverage is worth it? The primary benefit is to cover medical emergencies while traveling abroad including doctor and hospital costs – even emergency dental costs, and medical evacuation costs to receive appropriate care.  These costs can even exceed the cost of your trip as they are often not covered by your medical plan at home (and not by Medicare).  Can you afford to lose the cost of your trip if something arises that causes you to cancel your trip or return home early – perhaps to attend to an ill or injured family member back home?  Trip Cost Reimbursement and Interruption is the other primary benefit of travel insurance. Numerous other benefits such as compensation and assistance for a delayed flight, delayed or lost baggage, assistance with finding suitable medical care, language translation and re-scheduling your return flights are all very helpful when something disrupts your travel plans.
Gateway Destinations works with several highly-rated companies to provide the best coverage at affordable prices – call us to find out more.
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Rush Passport Service 15 Jul 2019

Running out of time to renew your passport before your trip?  The Department of State is currently taking about eight weeks to process an application through the normal channels. There are several US passport offices that will process passport applications or renewals on a rush basis – call 1-877-487-2778.  You will need to show proof of travel plans; a Western Region office is located in Tucson.  More information can be obtained at:  US Passports in a Hurry.
Alternatively, FedEx has teamed up with RushMyPassport to process new applications or renewals on an expedited basis. This service comes with a hefty price tag but is convenient – stop by any FedEx office.  You can also have your passport photos taken there
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