by L. West Oehmig, Jr.
posted June 5, 2008
Welcome to this month’s travel article in which I will address items that I hope will be helpful and informative for you and your family.
Air travel in the USA is going to be tough this summer and tougher in the fall with fuel costs at all time highs, all the U.S. carriers are looking for ways to stop the bleeding and recoup revenues from new sources. Airlines are moth balling part of their fleets, cutting employees, and increasing fares to meet the fuel challenges. Several carriers have included charges for checked luggage which will likely slow the check in process. Our advice? Plan early to fly early in the day to best avoid system breakdowns due to weather or other causes. Use up your frequent flyer points as soon as possible. With fewer available seats there will be much disappointment for those seeking to utilize points. If you have hundreds of thousands of points, consider splurging for first class tickets to an exotic destination. You’ll empty our account but you’ll receive the best in public air travel while doing so.
What’s happening in vacation and leisure travel?
The big news in the travel industry is the incredible resurgence of escorted tours. Many fine and reliable companies offer travelers unique experiences in all sorts of destinations all with the benefit of group pricing, hassle free travel, and an escort that is highly trained, knowledgeable and savvy. These new generation tours are far different from those your parents knew. They represent excellent value and wonderful travel opportunities worldwide.
Cruising is still a very popular vacation option. If your tastes run in the vein of Las Vegas, there are plenty of dazzling megaships from which to choose. If your tastes are a bit more conservative, look for a smaller vessel that offers fine dining, attentive staff, posh accommodations. Check with your travel consultant after surfing the web to get an excellent deal backed up by personal service.
River cruises are very popular particularly in Europe on the rivers Rhine and Danube. With a weak dollar, there is much value in river cruising and besides the experiences and sights alone the way will be wonderful.
Until next month, kind readers, I bid you adieu.
L. West Oehmig, Jr.
Chairman of Tennessee Valley Travel
www.tntravel.com
3023 S. Broad St.
Chattanooga, TN 37408
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