The Top Ten travel list
Chicago Tribune
Posted: Tuesday, Oct. 07, 2008
TOP PLACES TO DRINK A BEER
From the September/October issue of DRAFT magazine:
1. Ultimate Halloween, Transylvania, Romania, Oct. 31
2. The AT&T Red River Rivalry, University of Texas vs. University of Oklahoma, Dallas, Oct. 11
3. Ft. Langley Cranberry Festival, Ft. Langley, British Columbia, Oct. 11
4. Shuki Taisai Grand Autumn Festival, Nikko City, Japan, Oct. 17
5. 81st Annual Feast of San Gennaro, New York, held in September
6. 2008 Farm Aid Concert, Mansfield, Mass., held in September
7. Nuit Blanche 2008, Toronto, Oct. 4
8. Herring Fair, Helsinki, Finland, Oct. 5-11
9. Biketoberfest, Daytona Beach, Fla., Oct. 16-19
10. Rolex Big Boat Series, San Francisco, held in September
Now, I'll add my own ... The Grapevine Wine Shop & Bar in Ft Mill, SC!
http://www.mygrapevineonline.com/
Friday, October 10, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Traveling by car
Although I specialize in helping people with vacation spots to which they usually fly, I thought it might be helpful to some to have some tips on packing for car trips.
Many of these come from Fodor's 1001 Smart Travel Tips.
1. Buy maps or a road atlas (or get them from your auto club), then flag the pages relevant to your journey so they can be easily located. Use a highlighter to show your intended route. Be sure to share your plans with your navigator if it is not you!
2. Have at least one other person bring along extra keys. If traveling alone, leave a set with someone who could easily Fed Ex them to you.
3.Keep a trash bag and a roll of paper towels in easy reach, along with a jacket or sweater that can also be used as a pillow. Other than that and perhaps your iPod, put everything else in the trunk.
4.Clean out your trunk before packing then put items in from back to front with those you will need at your destination going in first.
5. Don't bury your emergency kit.
6. Give kids larger size plastic containers with some of their "stuff" in them. They can also serve as laptop desks for writing or coloring.
7. Pack a small cooler to cut down on expenses such as soft drinks, water, fruit and snack items.
8. Slow down to 55 (I know -- I hate it, too) and save 20% on gas consumption. It only costs you 10 minutes per hour to go from 65 to 55.
Happy traveling!
Many of these come from Fodor's 1001 Smart Travel Tips.
1. Buy maps or a road atlas (or get them from your auto club), then flag the pages relevant to your journey so they can be easily located. Use a highlighter to show your intended route. Be sure to share your plans with your navigator if it is not you!
2. Have at least one other person bring along extra keys. If traveling alone, leave a set with someone who could easily Fed Ex them to you.
3.Keep a trash bag and a roll of paper towels in easy reach, along with a jacket or sweater that can also be used as a pillow. Other than that and perhaps your iPod, put everything else in the trunk.
4.Clean out your trunk before packing then put items in from back to front with those you will need at your destination going in first.
5. Don't bury your emergency kit.
6. Give kids larger size plastic containers with some of their "stuff" in them. They can also serve as laptop desks for writing or coloring.
7. Pack a small cooler to cut down on expenses such as soft drinks, water, fruit and snack items.
8. Slow down to 55 (I know -- I hate it, too) and save 20% on gas consumption. It only costs you 10 minutes per hour to go from 65 to 55.
Happy traveling!
Friday, July 11, 2008
L A Times article
In case you are a do-it-myself vacation planner, this article may sway your thinking!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-spot13-2008jul13
From the Los Angeles Times
ON THE SPOT
A travel agent can help you find the best cruise and the best deal
By Catharine Hamm
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
July 09, 2008
Question: Is it cheaper to book a cruise online through the cruise line or through a travel agent?
--Cindy Gardina
Answer: It may or may not be cheaper to book through a travel agent, but it is definitely smarter. Here's why:
If you want chocolate, you can go to See's Candies. The chocolate may even be on sale. But you'll get only See's. And that's not, I am here to testify, a bad thing.
But suppose you also like Godiva or Toblerone or Amedei or La Maison du Chocolat. What then? Wouldn't you need a guide to tell you which one is right for you?
"The cruise line only has their products to sell, their ships, their cabins, their ports of call," says Jay Rein, chief executive and president of TravelWorm.com, an online travel agency.
Cruises used to come in two flavors: one, for the newly wed, and the other, for nearly dead. That notion is more outdated than the fur you've hidden in the closet. There are different kinds of cruises for different kinds of people and different price ranges and different kinds of ships.
"The [travel] agent can sell you everybody's cruise ship, everybody's extracurricular activities, everybody's options," Rein says. "An agency has a greater portfolio to choose from."
As for price, an agency worth its salt should be able to help you get the most for your money, whether it's alerting you to an especially good deal or getting you upgrades and perks.
An agent also can help you book tickets to your gateway destination and arrange overnight stays if necessary.
If you want the human touch, try ASTA.org or www.cruising.org/planyour cruise/experts.cfm.
But steer away from the agent who doesn't ask enough questions to know your "vacation personality" and immediately tries to tell you that a certain cruise line on a certain date is the ticket, says Evan Eggers, president of SureCruise.com, a cruise-only online agency.
You also can book through an on- line third-party agency or go to a site that will compete for your business, such as CruiseCompete.com.
If I set sail again, I'll use an agent, whether it's clicks or bricks because, frankly, he or she (or it) will offer to help. And when was the last time anybody else in the travel industry bothered to do that?
Have a travel dilemma? Write to travel@latimes.com.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-spot13-2008jul13
From the Los Angeles Times
ON THE SPOT
A travel agent can help you find the best cruise and the best deal
By Catharine Hamm
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
July 09, 2008
Question: Is it cheaper to book a cruise online through the cruise line or through a travel agent?
--Cindy Gardina
Answer: It may or may not be cheaper to book through a travel agent, but it is definitely smarter. Here's why:
If you want chocolate, you can go to See's Candies. The chocolate may even be on sale. But you'll get only See's. And that's not, I am here to testify, a bad thing.
But suppose you also like Godiva or Toblerone or Amedei or La Maison du Chocolat. What then? Wouldn't you need a guide to tell you which one is right for you?
"The cruise line only has their products to sell, their ships, their cabins, their ports of call," says Jay Rein, chief executive and president of TravelWorm.com, an online travel agency.
Cruises used to come in two flavors: one, for the newly wed, and the other, for nearly dead. That notion is more outdated than the fur you've hidden in the closet. There are different kinds of cruises for different kinds of people and different price ranges and different kinds of ships.
"The [travel] agent can sell you everybody's cruise ship, everybody's extracurricular activities, everybody's options," Rein says. "An agency has a greater portfolio to choose from."
As for price, an agency worth its salt should be able to help you get the most for your money, whether it's alerting you to an especially good deal or getting you upgrades and perks.
An agent also can help you book tickets to your gateway destination and arrange overnight stays if necessary.
If you want the human touch, try ASTA.org or www.cruising.org/planyour cruise/experts.cfm.
But steer away from the agent who doesn't ask enough questions to know your "vacation personality" and immediately tries to tell you that a certain cruise line on a certain date is the ticket, says Evan Eggers, president of SureCruise.com, a cruise-only online agency.
You also can book through an on- line third-party agency or go to a site that will compete for your business, such as CruiseCompete.com.
If I set sail again, I'll use an agent, whether it's clicks or bricks because, frankly, he or she (or it) will offer to help. And when was the last time anybody else in the travel industry bothered to do that?
Have a travel dilemma? Write to travel@latimes.com.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, July 07, 2008
More packing tips
I decided to do the world a favor (ha!) and pass along some of the thousands of packing tips I have stored up in my brain. So starting today, I'll pass along at least one a day. Here goes...
Think about layering, even if you don't think you'll need it.
Some cities in sunny destinations have "natural air conditioning" -- like the fog in San Francisco or the ocean breezes along the California coast. Then there's the restaurants, malls, museums, theatres and even airline cabins that are so often over air-conditioned. Having a sweater that you didn't think you'd need to put on over that cami will help keep you comfortable. Or, better yet, take a lightweight waterproof jacket that you can stuff into your carry-on or a pashmina type shawl that can even serve as a blanket in flight.
Think about layering, even if you don't think you'll need it.
Some cities in sunny destinations have "natural air conditioning" -- like the fog in San Francisco or the ocean breezes along the California coast. Then there's the restaurants, malls, museums, theatres and even airline cabins that are so often over air-conditioned. Having a sweater that you didn't think you'd need to put on over that cami will help keep you comfortable. Or, better yet, take a lightweight waterproof jacket that you can stuff into your carry-on or a pashmina type shawl that can even serve as a blanket in flight.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
packing for your cruise
Today I ran across a great article in the Smarter Travel website and am passing it along to you.
The article is titled Cruise Packing 101: One suitcase fits all.
It is an excellent resource for anyone planning a cruise as it lists each cruisse line and what the expected dress is on each. Some that you would think are more dressy are actually more casual and vice versa.
To view the article go to
http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/cruise-packing-101-one-suitcase-fits-all.html?id=2620952
The article is titled Cruise Packing 101: One suitcase fits all.
It is an excellent resource for anyone planning a cruise as it lists each cruisse line and what the expected dress is on each. Some that you would think are more dressy are actually more casual and vice versa.
To view the article go to
http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/cruise-packing-101-one-suitcase-fits-all.html?id=2620952
Monday, June 23, 2008
Why pay airlines for checked bags?
About 10 years ago I produced a video on packing for a one week trip in a carry-on bag. In it, I showed a very efficient packing method that could be used for either business travel or vacation travel. I also served as a speaker at many meetings, showing attendees this packing method.
After September 11,2001, my video had to either have major edits done to it or it had to go by the wayside. Since video was being replced by DVD at about that time and since there were continuing changes to baggage restrictions, I chose the latter.
But now, with the airlines beginning to charge for even the first checked bag, I can see where a great number of people could benefit from my packing technique. I will be resurrecting my packing demonstration within the next few months.
The format will be a pod cast that can be purchased on line. I will also be availble to speak and demonstrate my technique to your group or organization.
Watch this space for details. I promise you, it will be worth it.
Linda Murfin
Above The Crowds Travel
Ft Mill, SC
803-835-0585
After September 11,2001, my video had to either have major edits done to it or it had to go by the wayside. Since video was being replced by DVD at about that time and since there were continuing changes to baggage restrictions, I chose the latter.
But now, with the airlines beginning to charge for even the first checked bag, I can see where a great number of people could benefit from my packing technique. I will be resurrecting my packing demonstration within the next few months.
The format will be a pod cast that can be purchased on line. I will also be availble to speak and demonstrate my technique to your group or organization.
Watch this space for details. I promise you, it will be worth it.
Linda Murfin
Above The Crowds Travel
Ft Mill, SC
803-835-0585
Monday, March 03, 2008
Countdown to South Carolina
Only 10 days remain until our move to South Carolina!
This past weekend we did yet another quick shuttle run with things we would rather not have the movers take. When we left Ft Mill yesterday at 1PM, it was 70 degrees. When we got back, everyone was talking about the "nice day" they had in Ohio: it was 44 degrees!
There are so many friends we will miss from Akron. We do hope to have many visitors since we will be exactly half way on I-77 from Akron to Florida.
We also look forward to meeting lots of new folks in Ft Mill and the surrounding area.
Nothing could be finer than to be in Carolina in the ... ANY time!
This past weekend we did yet another quick shuttle run with things we would rather not have the movers take. When we left Ft Mill yesterday at 1PM, it was 70 degrees. When we got back, everyone was talking about the "nice day" they had in Ohio: it was 44 degrees!
There are so many friends we will miss from Akron. We do hope to have many visitors since we will be exactly half way on I-77 from Akron to Florida.
We also look forward to meeting lots of new folks in Ft Mill and the surrounding area.
Nothing could be finer than to be in Carolina in the ... ANY time!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Packing tips
Several years back, I produced a video called, "Lighten Up: Practical Packing for Overburdened Travelers". Many people who have seen the video or have seen my packing demonstration, swear by my method. My husband and I use it all the time. In fact, when we traveled to Costa Rica for 10 days this fall, we each took ONLY carry-on luggage!
Anywho, I know there are others out there who can give a good tip about packing, too, and here are two I recently ran across. Let me know what you think!
1. Packlistonline.com allows you to create and email yourself a personalized list. Simply browse the site's list of 500 items, check the ones you want, and hit "show the packlist." You'll then be emailed your specific list. It can take a while to get through and many items are labeled with British terms ("trousers" instead of "pants"), but the list is so extensive that it's unlikely you'll forget anything important.
2. Pack Like a Pro by Margaret Loftus in the January/February issue of National Geographic Traveler http://www.nationalgeographic.com/traveler/resources/st_packing0801/packing.html
"Wrinkled suits, overstuffed luggage, forgotten essentials, spilled liquids. At some point, every traveler has suffered the consequences of poor packing. Susan Foster, author of Smart Packing for Today's Traveler (Smart Travel Press), shares her best tips.
• Pare Down. The amount of clothing you take shouldn't be in proportion to the length of your trip. "Get past the concept of wearing a different outfit everyday." Instead, choose clothes that will wear well and/or launder easily. Foster likes "slinky-knit" pieces that don't require ironing. Devise a general packing list and stick to it to avoid second-guessing yourself. "The 'what-ifs' are the killer."
• Method. Place a nylon tote bag across the bottom of your suitcase (for return-trip overflow), then "interfold" clothes with plastic drycleaner bags between them to keep them from wrinkling. To interfold, place a pair of pants, or other long item, along the bottom of your bag, allowing it to drape over the side; top with plastic, then position the next pair on the opposite side and continue, working your way toward the shorter pieces. Fill in with a layer of items that can be easily rolled (such as T-shirts), underwear, and shoes, folding the legs of the pants on top. Tuck belts and accessories into shoes and other crevices. Group toiletries into plastic freezer bags and stuff them in the middle of the bag. Add a few sheets of bubble wrap for cushioning and to wrap around gifts and souvenirs you will probably buy.
• Plan B. In case your bags are delayed or lost, Foster recommends cross-packing: Pack a couple of things into your traveling companion's luggage, and vice-versa. Always travel with a change of clothing in your carry-on, or at the very least, wear something on the plane that you wouldn't mind wearing for the next few days."
Anywho, I know there are others out there who can give a good tip about packing, too, and here are two I recently ran across. Let me know what you think!
1. Packlistonline.com allows you to create and email yourself a personalized list. Simply browse the site's list of 500 items, check the ones you want, and hit "show the packlist." You'll then be emailed your specific list. It can take a while to get through and many items are labeled with British terms ("trousers" instead of "pants"), but the list is so extensive that it's unlikely you'll forget anything important.
2. Pack Like a Pro by Margaret Loftus in the January/February issue of National Geographic Traveler http://www.nationalgeographic.com/traveler/resources/st_packing0801/packing.html
"Wrinkled suits, overstuffed luggage, forgotten essentials, spilled liquids. At some point, every traveler has suffered the consequences of poor packing. Susan Foster, author of Smart Packing for Today's Traveler (Smart Travel Press), shares her best tips.
• Pare Down. The amount of clothing you take shouldn't be in proportion to the length of your trip. "Get past the concept of wearing a different outfit everyday." Instead, choose clothes that will wear well and/or launder easily. Foster likes "slinky-knit" pieces that don't require ironing. Devise a general packing list and stick to it to avoid second-guessing yourself. "The 'what-ifs' are the killer."
• Method. Place a nylon tote bag across the bottom of your suitcase (for return-trip overflow), then "interfold" clothes with plastic drycleaner bags between them to keep them from wrinkling. To interfold, place a pair of pants, or other long item, along the bottom of your bag, allowing it to drape over the side; top with plastic, then position the next pair on the opposite side and continue, working your way toward the shorter pieces. Fill in with a layer of items that can be easily rolled (such as T-shirts), underwear, and shoes, folding the legs of the pants on top. Tuck belts and accessories into shoes and other crevices. Group toiletries into plastic freezer bags and stuff them in the middle of the bag. Add a few sheets of bubble wrap for cushioning and to wrap around gifts and souvenirs you will probably buy.
• Plan B. In case your bags are delayed or lost, Foster recommends cross-packing: Pack a couple of things into your traveling companion's luggage, and vice-versa. Always travel with a change of clothing in your carry-on, or at the very least, wear something on the plane that you wouldn't mind wearing for the next few days."
2008 -- already????
While I'm sure I am not the only one wondering what happened to 2007 (and 2006, 2005, 2004, etc.), I find myself sitting at my desk in blur asking, "How can this be? I had so many things to finish in 2007 and now it is finished and I am not."
In one sense, that's a good thing: If I were finished, what would I have to look forward to when I got up this morning?
As it is, I am looking forward to dinner with friends this weekend, a trip soon to South Carolina to visit my best and oldest friend, Sandee Wilkerson; my part time job at Kohl's that helps pay for our health insurance; setting up a new marketing program for Pied Pipers of Travel with Deborah Chaddock-Brown, seeing my friend Dianne Winnen-Oldenburg's house transformation ... and that's just THIS WEEK!
Further out, I am eager to spend time with grandkids and explore more of God's wonderful world -- perhaps even combining the two as we did this past weekend at the Columbus Zoo with my daughter Alise, her husband Jerry, and granddaughters Julia, Emma, Lauren and Audrey.
In one sense, that's a good thing: If I were finished, what would I have to look forward to when I got up this morning?
As it is, I am looking forward to dinner with friends this weekend, a trip soon to South Carolina to visit my best and oldest friend, Sandee Wilkerson; my part time job at Kohl's that helps pay for our health insurance; setting up a new marketing program for Pied Pipers of Travel with Deborah Chaddock-Brown, seeing my friend Dianne Winnen-Oldenburg's house transformation ... and that's just THIS WEEK!
Further out, I am eager to spend time with grandkids and explore more of God's wonderful world -- perhaps even combining the two as we did this past weekend at the Columbus Zoo with my daughter Alise, her husband Jerry, and granddaughters Julia, Emma, Lauren and Audrey.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)