Monday, September 15, 2008

How to Add a Passenger to My Cabin After Booking a Cruise

Life happens. Oftentimes the best laid plans need to be changed at a later date. Booking a cruise is no exception. Maybe a family member or friend was allowed to take off work after all. Or, someone changed their mind and decided to join you on your trip. Whatever the case, use these valuable tips to learn how to add a passenger to your cabin on a cruise at a later date.



Step1
Contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly as soon as you need to add another passenger to your cabin. Explain the situation to them.


Step2
If you are adding a passenger to a cabin that can accommodate three or four people, there shouldn't be a problem. The biggest issue is if the ship has already reached its sailing capacity. So the earlier you book, the better.


Step3
If you try to add another passenger to your cabin after you've requested a "single" accommodation, you'll need to upgrade to a larger cabin or to a suite. The extra cost will vary, depending on the cruise line.


Step4
Book a "Handicapped Cabin" for your cruise in advance and you won't be able to add an additional passenger, unless they too are handicapped. These cabins are reserved for passengers with disabilities only.


Step5
Make the reservation for the extra passenger, then arrange to pay the deposit for their fare.


Step6
Consider canceling the cruise and rebooking it for a later date if you're unable to add a passenger to your cabin.


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Saturday, August 30, 2008

How to Accommodations in Tempe, Arizona

Densely populated and in the heart of the Valley of the Sun, Tempe has a lot to offer Arizona residents and visitors alike. The arts, shopping, nightlife and sports are all major parts of what makes Tempe tick.



Step1
Get ready for crowds. More than 160,000 people call Tempe, Arizona, home. Though this number is not astronomical, the city is the most densely populated in the state. It also serves as a crossroads because of its location.


Step2
Learn about the area. Several industrial parks and planned communities have emerged to try to keep up with the growth of business, academic, political and tourist enterprises.


Step3
Research the area. Tempe is part of the Greater Phoenix area. The cities are separate entities, but they help each other by sharing services and resources to make a stronger collective whole.

Get From Place to Place in Tempe


Step1
Drive to Tempe easily because of the confluence of several arteries that make it a major crossroads. Interstate 10 runs along the western edge of the city, while Loop 202 is on the north and Loop 101 is on the south. U.S. Route 60 also runs east-west through the center of the city.


Step2
Fly to Tempe via Sky Harbor International Airport. The Phoenix airport is just 10 minutes from Tempe, making it a convenient way to arrive. Shuttles are available at the airport, as are cabs and rental cars.


Step3
Get around Tempe and the surrounding cities using Valley Metro bus service. These buses serve Phoenix and Maricopa County as well. A light-rail system is also being developed.

Choose Your Accommodations in Tempe


Step1
To book accommodations, contact Tempe Convention and Visitors Bureau at (480) 894-8158 or visit their Web site (see Resources below).


Step2
Book accommodations in a mid-level hotel for a cost-effective way to see the area. Your comfort does not have to suffer as you economize; nice hotels start at about $70 per night.


Step3
Reserve deluxe or luxury accommodations if you want to splurge. Hotels and resorts cater to your every need, and their amenities lists are a mile long. Stay in a resort for as little as $109 per night.

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Saturday, August 23, 2008

How to (Theoretically) Get Into North Korea

Getting into North Korea is almost impossible and if you actually can get in, somewhat dangerous. If you are still interested, here are some tips and reasons why. In 1948, North Korea and South Korea were formed officially after the Japanese lost WWII and gave up occupation of Korea. Since then, North Korea has been the world's hotbed of communism and political controversy. The Korean War, the reign of Kim Il-Sung and now his son Kim Jong-il, and the testing of nuclear weapons have all led to animosity between North Korea and Western nations. In turn, it has become incredibly tough to visit the country, unless under a direct visa from a third party country.



Step1
Americans are not welcome in North Korea. Even journalists and business people are not allowed entry except in extremely rare circumstances.


Step2
Apply for a visa from a third party country such as China if you must attempt entry into the country, but there is no guarantee of success here either.


Step3
Be aware that the U.S. government does not issue visas to private Americans.


Step4
Even military travel is extremely restricted in and out of North Korea.


Step5
U.S. citizens who actually make it into North Korea are subject to detainment and arrest.


Step6
There is no UN Embassy in North Korea, and no help for tourists once inside. Most local citizens are extremely wary of helping foreigners for fear of government repercussions.


Step7
South Koreans and some Europeans are allowed into North Korea, but have only limited access to tourist sites and cannot enter the capital city of Pyongyang.


Step8
Kim Jong-il is only to be spoken of as the "Dear Leader" and a number of other praising phrases.

Where to Stay (If You Get In)


Step1
Accommodations in Pyongyang are not cheap and are heavily guarded by soldiers who monitor your every move as a rule.


Step2
There are very few amenities in Pyongyang accommodations, including only a few TV channels and some restaurants.


Step3
Pyongyang is the only place you'll find accommodations even remotely westernized, although tourists are not allowed to enter this city.

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Sunday, August 17, 2008

How to Book Airline Tickets

Booking airline tickets has become an art form. One day too late, or choose the wrong layover, and you're paying hundreds more than you need to. It takes a lot of sleuthing and a bit of finesse to get the seat you want, the price you need and the dates you prefer. Here's how to get from point A to point B--on your own terms.


Articles resource


Step1
Start your search at least 21 days ahead of time to take advantage of advance-booking fares. Travel midweek and stay over a Saturday night whenever possible. Stay on your toes: The cheap seats always sell out first.


Step2
Look for flights on your frequent-flier carrier first and compare its cheapest rate to those on sites such as Priceline.com, Expedia.com and Travelocity.com. Also check out consolidators such as AirTravelCenter.com and auction sites. Many airline Web sites offer lower Internet-only fares.


Step3
Consider flying through a secondary airport. Orange County and Burbank are alternatives to LAX, and Newark International can substitute for the busier and oft-delayed JFK or LaGuardia airports. You may have to drive further, but if flights are impossible to get or impossibly expensive, you might be surprised by the ease of use and friendlier prices of smaller airports.


Step4
Request your seat preference (aisle or window) when buying your ticket. You could find yourself with a middle seat if you wait until check-in. SeatGuru.com has detailed maps of the best and worst seats on specific planes, so you can avoid seats that don't recline and keep an eye out for those with extra leg room.


Step5
Request any special assistance or equipment (such as a wheelchair) for disabled travelers prior to arriving at the airport.


Step6
Keep the length of the flight, the layovers, the amount of gear you're carrying and the time of day in mind when deciding whether to buy a seat (often discounted) for an infant. Domestic carriers permit you to hold children under 2 years of age on your lap, while international flights require a ticket and a seat for every passenger.


Step7
Place special meal orders at no extra charge, if they are offered on your flight. For example, United offers diabetic, low fat and low cholesterol, low-calorie, high-fiber, low-protein, low-sodium, kosher and vegan meals. There are also meals for children. These special meals are often tastier than the regular fare.


Step8
Find out whether tickets are refundable, transferable or changeable (and at what cost) before you buy. Get e-tickets when possible. Having paper tickets mailed usually involves an extra fee, and they're like cash: If you lose them, they're gone.

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Thursday, August 14, 2008

How to Be a Good Houseguest in a Foreign Country

Being a guest in another's home is a wonderful way to experience a foreign country. It Momay take special efforts to be a good house guest in an unfamiliar culture, but the payoff for friendship and enhanced cultural intimacy makes it worthwhile.

More articles......

Step1
Research ahead of time appropriate gift-giving customs of the locality you'll be visiting. Consult with local guide books, general guide books, cultural readers, Web sites pertinent to the region, and other travelers.


Step2
Do some homework on appropriate behaviors between various categories of people such as men and women, adults and children, and seniors and juniors. Read and talk with other people, and make your own observations once you arrive.


Step3
Limit your stay to just a couple of days if you are spontaneously invited as a guest to someone's home. Your host may be culturally required to insist you stay longer, but this may inconvenience the host's life and family economy.


Step4
If you admire something within a person's home, they may feel obliged to give this to you as a gift in some cultures. Be very careful about the ways in which you communicate your appreciation for your accommodations, and never accept something used in a home as a gift.


Step5
Observe how people behave in their homes and use this as a model for your own behavior. Pay attention to when people bathe, how frequently and for how long; when people get up and go to sleep; what is considered appropriately modest dress in the home; whether or not shoes or hats are worn indoors.


Step6
Be aware that your stay may be a severe economic burden on your host family, so do what you can to mitigate this burden: Pay attention to foods the family purchases and buy these in the market; treat if your host offers to accompany you while you go sightseeing; eat as many meals as possible away from the home; limit your use of hot water and fuel; limit your stay.


Step7
Expect to pay for a meal if you invite someone to eat with you. The custom of splitting a check is considered insulting in many cultures.


Step8
Give your host numerous opportunities to accept your offers of gifts or to make purchases for the household. In some cultures it is customary to refuse a gift or payment several times before finally accepting it: Your host may actually be expecting a third or fourth offer.


Step9
Stock up on relatively expensive non-perishable items that your host family can appreciate after you have left; consider coffee, sugar, tea, spices, rice or other staples.


Step10
Take plenty of photos and send these to your host family along with a thank-you note once you have developed the film.

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Tuesday, August 12, 2008

How to Be Safe From Fire in a Hotel or Motel

Knowing your fire exits and fire safety when on vacation is just as important as it is at home. When staying in new hotels and motels, the first thing you should do upon entering your room is take a few minutes to go over the fire exit plan.

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Step1
Read and understand the fire safety information provided in your room as soon as you arrive. It's usually on the back of the entrance door to the hotel or motel room. If you have any questions, call the front desk.


Step2
Ask the people at the front desk what sound the fire alarm makes.


Step3
Locate another exit in your room other than the front door.


Step4
Try unlocking your front door in the dark, as well as finding it without the lights on.


Step5
Walk outside your room and find your closest emergency exit. Try it to make sure it works.


Step6
Find a fire alarm pull box close to your room.


Step7
Never take an elevator during a fire - always take the stairs.


Step8
Leave fire doors in the hallways closed. They can stop a fire from spreading.


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Sunday, August 10, 2008

How to Avoid a Broken Heart While Traveling

A romantic entanglement with a local can give you an intimate look at another culture, and getting involved with a fellow traveler can provide welcome companionship. Avoid heartbreak by keeping your expectations realistic and being sensitive to cultural mores.



Step1
Keep your expectations of the new romance in check. The possibilities for communication and intimacy may seem endless while the wine is flowing and tropical breezes are blowing, but both of you have lives beyond your vacation.


Step2
Understand the cultural meaning your romantic partner brings to sex before becoming sexually involved. In some cultures, sexual intimacy means engagement to marry; a fling to you might mean a broken heart to another.


Step3
Don't assume because your romantic partner is from a traditional culture that he or she expects to have a traditional relationship with you. Your partner may have assumptions about your sexual availability that make flirtation with you desirable, but marriage out of the question.


Step4
Talk with a fellow traveler or a local resident from your home country if things become confusing. This may provide you with some much-needed perspective.


Step5
Stay in touch with friends and loved ones back home as you become immersed in a new relationship. Letters, e-mail and phone calls home will help you remember the values, culture and life you will be returning to.


http://www.freewebtown.com/howtodothing/travel/2.htm#2

How to Avoid a Broken Heart While Traveling

A romantic entanglement with a local can give you an intimate look at another culture, and getting involved with a fellow traveler can provide welcome companionship. Avoid heartbreak by keeping your expectations realistic and being sensitive to cultural mores.



Step1
Keep your expectations of the new romance in check. The possibilities for communication and intimacy may seem endless while the wine is flowing and tropical breezes are blowing, but both of you have lives beyond your vacation.


Step2
Understand the cultural meaning your romantic partner brings to sex before becoming sexually involved. In some cultures, sexual intimacy means engagement to marry; a fling to you might mean a broken heart to another.


Step3
Don't assume because your romantic partner is from a traditional culture that he or she expects to have a traditional relationship with you. Your partner may have assumptions about your sexual availability that make flirtation with you desirable, but marriage out of the question.


Step4
Talk with a fellow traveler or a local resident from your home country if things become confusing. This may provide you with some much-needed perspective.


Step5
Stay in touch with friends and loved ones back home as you become immersed in a new relationship. Letters, e-mail and phone calls home will help you remember the values, culture and life you will be returning to.


http://www.freewebtown.com/howtodothing/travel/2.htm#2

Thursday, August 7, 2008

How to Avoid Trouble With Local Police While Traveling

Avoid trouble with police and other officials by doing your homework about local culture and laws before departing, and acting with prudence after arriving.



Step1
Research cultural mores and local laws before your departure, even if you are traveling in a country that seems similar to your own. Learn which behaviors are unacceptable, what's illegal, and the penalties if you break the law.


Step2
Investigate whether or not bribes are a part of police culture in your destination, and if so, what constitutes an appropriate bribe. If uncertain and you encounter trouble, try asking a police officer if it is customary to pay a "fine" on the spot rather than be hauled into a police station to pay.


Step3
Check with your country's embassy and find out when they can offer assistance for legal entanglements. Some embassies will not offer assistance in repatriating their citizens after particular kinds of crimes such as drug possession or drug dealing.


Step4
Pack and wear clothing that is culturally appropriate to the area. Bring along at least one set of modest or conservative clothing that you can wear when interacting with local authorities.


Step5
Carry appropriate identification and papers with you at all times in case you are stopped by a police officer. Know when your passport, visa or other permits expire and the appropriate means of renewing these before they become invalid.


Step6
Carry a letter of introduction from a person of social position (such as a business, university or government leader) when traveling in a country where such letters are used. This may be an important tool in keeping local police from harassing you.


Step7
Don't carry anything through a metal detector or onto a flight that may be interpreted as illegal or threatening. Tools such as sewing scissors and pocket knives are best kept in checked baggage.


Step8
Carry your ticket or a receipt for your ticket when traveling on a train or bus. In some countries you will be asked to show your ticket on exiting a railway station or to produce your ticket randomly when the conductor has time to check it.


Step9
Avoid confrontations or using disrespectful language when interacting with authority figures of any kind.


http://www.freewebtown.com/howtodothing/travel/2.htm#1

Sunday, August 3, 2008

How to Avoid Travel Scams

Ever been approached for a vacation to your dream destination with an unbelievably low price? Chances are you were being led into a travel scam. Travel scams are commonplace, especially during the holiday season. They target unwitting customers and swindle them out of their money. As for the dream holiday, it remains a dream even after paying unbelievable price. Steer clear of these travel nightmares with these helpful tips.




Step1
Check that the travel agency or tour company offering the holiday is affiliated with a professional association.


Step2
Find out as much background information about the tour company as possible. Get their local numbers and contact information for their local and regional offices. If you fail to find this information, stop dealing with them.


Step3
Get references from the tour company and talk to individuals to determine the credibility of the package.


Step4
Check that the company has a general liability insurance carrier.


Step5
Take your time making a decision rather than giving in to sales tactics. If the offer is only valid tonight, think twice before accepting.


Step6
Find out all details about your package. From the airline you will fly with to the hotel you ll stay in, get all the information in writing from the tour company.


Step7
Before deciding on a package, read the fine print. A free package may be restricted only to the airfare. The hotel accommodations may cost you a fortune.


Step8
Verify the company s cancellation and refund policies before you decide to make a payment.


Step9
Paying with a credit card is preferable over other methods of payment since it gives you a reasonable amount of protection against fraud. If you pay in cash, ask for a receipt for your payment.


http://www.freewebtown.com/6-30/h/o/howtodothing/travel/1.htm#2

Thursday, July 31, 2008

How to Arrange a Tour of the National Parks

A surprising number of Americans look overseas when it comes time to travel, forgetting the wealth of domestic attractions. The National Park System contains hundreds of scenic gems that would be one-of-a-kind wonders in many other countries. It's extremely ambitious to try to visit all the National Parks in one continuous trip, but you can certainly plan a route that includes many famous spots.


Step1
Research which parks appeal to you and your family. Parks can be divided into two broad categories--scenic and historical. Go to the National Park Service Web site (nps.gov). On the "Info Zone" page, click on "park maps" and find the "National Park System Map and Guide" in the alphabetical list.


Step2
Chart your course: Focus on a specific region, such as the Southwest, and visit parks that showcase both ancient civilizations and geology at Grand Canyon, Zion, Canyon de Chelly and others. Plan your trip around a historic event such as the Civil War (civilwarweekend.com). Or, follow your passion for a specific landscape and its inhabitants by touring parks that feature dripping rain forests, frozen tundra or wind-carved deserts.


Step3
Buy seven-day park passes for $5 to $20 per vehicle. Or get a National Parks Pass at nps.gov or by calling (888) GO-PARKS. This admits you to all national parks for one calendar year for $50.


Step4
Time your trip and activities to coincide with optimal weather conditions for that area. Death Valley in August contains only dead people, people who wish they were dead and a few hardy lizards. Wintertime is ideal for back-country skiers and ice climbers, and at some parks, it's an ideal season to view wildlife.


Step5
Keep in mind that all national parks are likely to be packed with visitors during the peak summer and early fall seasons. Avoid major attractions such as Old Faithful and Yosemite Falls during these times if you want a more solitary experience. On the other hand, most parks encompass miles of terrain, offering visitors peaceful seclusion even during peak times.


Step6
Decide on how much camping vs. hotel time you want. Camping is great, but after a few days in the wilderness, a little room service isn't so bad. Many of the historical sites on the East Coast offer only limited camping options but many hotel options.


Step7
Choose your lodging (also at nps.gov) and book reservations well in advance. Parks offer a range of options, which vary from rustic to plush, with dining options running the gamut as well. In-park lodging is convenient because you don't have to drive from your motel into the park--and deal with traffic and parking--each day. Campgrounds and hotels outside of parks usually don't fill up as fast as those inside.

How to Arrange a Tour of the National Parks

A surprising number of Americans look overseas when it comes time to travel, forgetting the wealth of domestic attractions. The National Park System contains hundreds of scenic gems that would be one-of-a-kind wonders in many other countries. It's extremely ambitious to try to visit all the National Parks in one continuous trip, but you can certainly plan a route that includes many famous spots.


Step1
Research which parks appeal to you and your family. Parks can be divided into two broad categories--scenic and historical. Go to the National Park Service Web site (nps.gov). On the "Info Zone" page, click on "park maps" and find the "National Park System Map and Guide" in the alphabetical list.


Step2
Chart your course: Focus on a specific region, such as the Southwest, and visit parks that showcase both ancient civilizations and geology at Grand Canyon, Zion, Canyon de Chelly and others. Plan your trip around a historic event such as the Civil War (civilwarweekend.com). Or, follow your passion for a specific landscape and its inhabitants by touring parks that feature dripping rain forests, frozen tundra or wind-carved deserts.


Step3
Buy seven-day park passes for $5 to $20 per vehicle. Or get a National Parks Pass at nps.gov or by calling (888) GO-PARKS. This admits you to all national parks for one calendar year for $50.


Step4
Time your trip and activities to coincide with optimal weather conditions for that area. Death Valley in August contains only dead people, people who wish they were dead and a few hardy lizards. Wintertime is ideal for back-country skiers and ice climbers, and at some parks, it's an ideal season to view wildlife.


Step5
Keep in mind that all national parks are likely to be packed with visitors during the peak summer and early fall seasons. Avoid major attractions such as Old Faithful and Yosemite Falls during these times if you want a more solitary experience. On the other hand, most parks encompass miles of terrain, offering visitors peaceful seclusion even during peak times.


Step6
Decide on how much camping vs. hotel time you want. Camping is great, but after a few days in the wilderness, a little room service isn't so bad. Many of the historical sites on the East Coast offer only limited camping options but many hotel options.


Step7
Choose your lodging (also at nps.gov) and book reservations well in advance. Parks offer a range of options, which vary from rustic to plush, with dining options running the gamut as well. In-park lodging is convenient because you don't have to drive from your motel into the park--and deal with traffic and parking--each day. Campgrounds and hotels outside of parks usually don't fill up as fast as those inside.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

How to Pack Properly for a Cruise

Packing for a cruise is similar to packing for a land-based vacation in a similar climate, with a few exceptions.


Step1
Assess your wardrobe several weeks before your cruise. Choose a couple of colors that work together so that what you bring can be easily mixed and matched, then try on everything you plan to wear together to ensure each item is suitable and doesn't need any cleaning, repairs or alterations.


Step2
Make a list of items you need to pack and buy any items you don't have (sandals, bathing suit, rain slicker).


Step3
Pack comfortable, layerable clothes for daytime. On most ships, shorts and t-shirts are fine for tropical cruises; your "causal Friday" outfits should work for most evenings.


Step4
Bring one bathing suit and a cover-up, but not beach towels they're provided.


Step5
Depending on the climate, you'll most likely need three pairs of shoes: rubber-soled shoes for walking on the deck, one pair of sandals or other shoes comfortable for walking in port, and one pair of dress shoes for evening.


Step6
Pack at least one pair of underwear and socks (unless it's a trobpical cruise) for each day of the cruise.


Step7
Add a hat, travel clock, sunglasses and batteries or chargers for your camera and other electronic devices.