Travel Tips

FoodTrucks February 22nd, 2012

Miami on a Budget: Best Food Trucks in Miami

Posted by: flipkey|0 comments

Today we are featuring, Megan Kaseburg, a travel blog writer who promotes Miami tours and attractions for the Gray Line Miami Blog.

Miami is home to the rich and famous who love to enjoy the good life. It’s not surprising then that Miami can be a somewhat difficult place for travelers on a modest budget. The best way to save some dough but not skimp on your vacation experience is to stop at one (or let´s be honest, several) of Miami’s best food trucks. Food truck fever has spread all across the US but no where else is this food trend as hot and spicy as it is in Miami. Offering a wide variety gourmet flavors at incredibly reasonable prices, food trucks are perfect for hanging out with the locals as you savor a sampling of small plates of delicious eats.  Here are some of the best food trucks in Miami:

Jefe´s Original Fish Tacos

Bringing West Coast fish tacos to Miami, Jefe´s fish tacos are petite but overflowing with oh-so-good flavor. These tacos will beg you to squeeze all the limes that you can get your hands on over the delicately fried fish. At less than $2.50 per mini taco, you will have to exercise extreme self-control to prevent yourself from ordering more than three. Emanating good vibes and sunshine, it´s like you can almost hear the waves of Baja California.

Latin Burger and Taco

Taking the burger to a whole new level, this fusion of the classic American cheeseburger with a generous helping of Latin spice is absolutely divine in a macho sort of way. A Sirloin steak burger smothered in caramelized onions and peppered with jalapeños will be your taste bud’s idea of heaven but your breath’s idea of hell. It´s more than worth it, especially when you include fries for a $10 combo meal.

Gastropod

This food truck is a gastronome’s dream. One of the original Miami food trucks, Gastropod’s Chef Jeremiah joyfully serves his tasty dishes out of his trademark 1960s Airstream motor home. While this is not the cheapest food truck in town, you can expect to pay around $10 per plate, but it is by far the most ‘gourmet’ option. Cultivating a reputation for exciting and unique Caribbean fusions, Gastropod reigns supreme with customer favorites like Banh Mi Pork Tacos, Red Curry Duck Tacos and the famous Old Dirt Dog Short Ribs with Stupid Slaw.

Che Grill

It is time to go south to the land of savory empanadas and steak: Argentina. If you don’t feel like traveling all the way to the Southern Hemisphere for authentic empanadas, then check out the Che Grill. Grab beef or chicken empanadas for an easy-to-eat treat, ideal for a relaxing beach picnic. Meat aficionados know that Argentine carne is all about the cut and you should try the entraña, skirt steak. Don´t be shy with the chimichurri sauce, your culinary palette will thank you later.

Sugar Rush

Don’t be surprised if you hear dramatic exclamations such as “Take that away from me before I eat it all!” around Sugar Rush, a food truck dedicated to desserts. Eating a deep friend Oreo is not the model diet for prancing around in your swimsuit on South Beach, but you won’t be able to resist yourself. Cake milkshakes are extremely popular and the Red Velvet Cake Milkshake blended with ice cream is by far the biggest crowd pleaser on a hot Miami day. Other scrumptious options include Passion Fruit Cremé Brulee and Churro con Chocolate cupcakes.

You can visit each truck’s website to get the most up to date schedule as they change weekly or check out Miamifoodtrucks.com. Most food trucks do not accept debit/credit cards and you will need to bring some old fashion greenbacks.

 

Categorized as: Budget Travel, Food & Drink, Travel Tips Read more →
A New Zealand Vacation Rental January 05th, 2012

A Five Step Plan for New Zealand Travel

Posted by: flipkey|0 comments

Visiting New Zealand can be intimidating because of the sheer paperwork often associated with travel abroad. While it’s true that the “Godzone” has lax requirements for people visiting from some countries for some reasons, this lack of formality can actually make travel to New Zealand more confusing instead of less. Use this step-by-step guide to confirm that you have all of your document ducks in a row.

Step One: Confirm that you are from a Visa-Waiver country. 

If you are from the United States, Canada or the United Kingdom, you can visit for pleasure for up to three months (six if from the UK) without a visa. This doesn’t mean no paperwork – just that a visa isn’t part of the paperwork required.

Check this link for a list of other countries that have visa-waiver agreements with New Zealand.

Exceptions: Travel to New Zealand for medical treatment or business purposes may require a visa. Both of these types of trips are much more complex, and you should contact the New Zealand Embassy or Consulate to work out details.

Step Two: Check Your Passport

Not needing a visa doesn’t mean you won’t need your standard travel documents. As soon as you know you’re going to New Zealand, check your passports to make sure they won’t expire before your return. It’s possible to replace or renew a passport on short notice, but it gets exponentially more expensive the faster you have to do it.

Step Three: Prove That You’re Leaving

New Zealand is wonderful by all reports – so wonderful that the New Zealand authorities are afraid visitors won’t want to leave. Before they let you into the country, New Zealand customs inspectors will want to see the ticket stubs that prove you have an exit strategy. This is trivial to arrange, but have them printed and available when you pack for your trip.

Step Four: Prove That You Can Afford It

The authorities also want evidence that you can support yourself during your stay. As of November, 2012, they require proof of funds to the tune of $1000 per month per person. This can be in the form of cash on hand, current bank statements, or an indication of a credit card with enough available balance.

If you are staying with friends or family, they can complete the Sponsorship for Temporary Entry (INZ 1025). Which basically says a resident of New Zealand will take responsibility for your financial upkeep while you’re in the country.

If you are using a vacation rental, you can qualify for a partial waiver of this requirement. If your lodging is already paid for in full, you only have to prove funds of $400 per month per person. Print your receipt from the vacation rental transaction and keep it among your other proof of funds paperwork.

Step Five: Enjoy Your Trip

Between the unique culture, gentle beaches and rolling landscape, New Zealand is one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Rest easy knowing your paperwork is in order, and explore all the country has to offer.



Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
Bode Miller's House December 19th, 2011

Traveling and the Holidays: Tis the Season to Keep Healthy

Posted by: flipkey|3 comments

by Anne Kemp

This is the time of year when travelers begin annual treks over the river and through the woods, bustling toward the next family gathering or holiday party, or jetting off to visit loved ones in far away locales. Amateur bakers dust off their rolling pins during the month of December and holiday fetes are planned for out-of-town guests. Yes, it is that time of year, Virginia. The time of year when most revelers gain weight.

Tis the season for huge portions served everywhere you go, in homes and restaurants alike. Calendars are packed with more parties to fit in than time allotted for exercise. It’s no wonder that even the healthiest of folks have been reported to gain anywhere from one to eight pounds over the holiday season.

How do we stop this trend? It’s really simple and can be done by thinking ahead. At this time of year, you just need to use the Three P’s!

Planning, Prevention and Preparation.

Step One – Planning

Whether traveling across the country to visit family or driving to the other side of town to attend a holiday party, call ahead and ask the hostess if you can help by bringing a dish. A seven layer dip, which is normally filled with processed guacamole and full-fat sour cream and cheese, can be made into a lighter version by using fat-free sour cream, making fresh homemade guacamole, and topping with a low-fat cheese. Grab a bag of baked tortilla chips with little to no salt and you’re set. If you’re out-of-town and on a special diet, such as gluten free, stop by the local grocery stores to see what’s stocked or research the products they carry online before your arrival. Most grocery stores offer Betty Crocker’s Gluten Free Cakes and Cookies or Bob’s Red Mill Flour for baking. Offer to make cakes or breads from your “own” recipe, surprising your hosts with the amazing taste of these desserts.

Step Two – Prevention

Traveling through airports or venturing out on road trips is especially tough when watching your waistline. Take time to pack snack items, such as travel packets of almond or peanut butter with gluten free or low-fat crackers, raw almonds or dried fruit. Instead of splurging on a pastry when waiting at the terminal, choose an apple or banana, and always carry a bottle of water with you for the plane. Then planning for a road trip, make room in your car for a stocked cooler with healthy snacks for everyone, such as carrots and hummus dip or pre-rolled turkey and lettuce snacks (for the gluten free or low-carb dieter) or fresh fruits and yogurts. Add extra ice at each rest stop. An ounce of prevention is truly worth its weight…in gold or otherwise.

Step Three – Preparation

Scan the holiday calendar; keeping an eye out for parties or travel scenarios that may need some “pre-attendance adjustment.” There may be a gathering where you can eat a healthier meal, such as a hearty salad or quick veggie stir-fry, before you go, thus warding off the temptation of passed hors d’oeuvres or a buffet. Find time before a big dinner to fit in a workout, like sit-ups and a quick run. When packing for your holiday trip, make sure to take your sneakers and encourage others in your family to go out for a quick walk with you to work off your holiday meals. Find a local park or map out a trail through the neighborhood. Staying in tight quarters? Take a few minutes to do some push-ups or stretching.

The secret is all in using moderation and taking baby steps. By taking preventative measures each day during this holiday season, you will insure that you’ll be feeling your fittest, finest and fiercest of them all!

Anne Kemp is a columnist and blogger for the Frederick News-Post, a newspaper in the Washington D.C Metro area. Kemp writes about dating and relationships, travel, product reviews and living a gluten-free lifestyle. As an author, her first book, Rum Punch Regrets, will be released May of 2012.

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA November 21st, 2011

Prepare for Ski Season with the four S’s

Posted by: Suzanne Johnson|0 comments
There’s more to a great ski vacation than just a lift ticket and a cozy apres-ski fireplace. To really prepare for a week on the slopes, skiers should plan on covering the four S’s: swaps, squats, socks, and snow-dancing. November is the time to start planning for ski season, to be fully prepared to make that first run!

Swaps

It’s okay to rent ski gear if needed, but even better to find a great deal on your own skis and boots that you know will fit right. All across the country, November is the month for ski swaps, when warehouses and convention centers fill with last year’s models and gently used gear, at prices that put skiing within reach of any budget. Most swaps are held by ski clubs or teams, so the aisles are filled with folks eager to talk shop, and point you in the right direction for gear that is right for you.

Squats

All that hiking and biking you did over the summer may have left you in terrific cardio shape, but what about those quads? Remember last year, when the first day of your ski vacation left your lower half screaming for mercy? That’s right – start doing squats now, and build your tucking endurance. If you’re very serious, start a whole plyometric regimen to develop explosive jumping power. Your thighs will thank you.

Socks

As the first S implies, I’m all about the bargain when it comes to ski gear, except when it comes to socks. Never skimp on ski socks; warm, comfortable feet are fundamental to a fun day on the slopes. Buying a new pair of cushy, cute ski socks has become a pre-season tradition for me (and they make thoughtful pre-vacation gifts for your traveling companions as well.) Three things to look for in a good ski sock: a merino wool blend for maximum warmth, wicking, and non-itchiness, a thinner section at the ankle to reduce bulk in the boot, and of course a little snazzy style–stripes are a favorite!

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
October 26th, 2011

Five Holiday Travel Hotspots

Posted by: Bethaney Wallace|2 comments

It’s getting to be that time of year again. The weather is cooling down, the leaves are dropping and before you know it the holiday season will be in full swing. With all of the cleaning, planning, shopping, and cooking that can be involved in holiday preparations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or behind schedule before you’ve even had a chance to get started.  Instead of waiting for the early winter months to fly by this year, take them by their metaphorical horns and make a vacation out of this holiday season. What better way to relieve yourself of some stress than taking a holiday getaway? You can even bring the whole family along and host a holiday dinner in your vacation home.

Image Via ChristmasinCharleston.com

If you want to get an early start, consider taking a spooky Halloween vacation. Read all about some of the U.S.’ most haunted destinations here. However, for those of you who are planning on taking a vacation later in the holiday season, there are plenty of options for you as well. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, or any other seasonal tradition, these hot spots are sure to provide a great holiday traveling destination.

The Poconos

This holiday season, there will be virtually no better winter scene than the beautiful views of the Poconos. With the perfect landscape for curling up beside a window, skiing, or taking part in one of the area’s many other winter sports, this destination is sure to have enough activities to keep the entire family happy. For those who prefer to enjoy a white Christmas indoors, the area has numerous inside activities such as cooking classes and discovering amazing dinnerware and ceramics transform right before your eyes at the local pottery center. If you’re behind on the holiday shopping, the area has plenty of shopping centers, so you can pick up those last minute gifts

Heidelberg, Germany

This European town is widely known for its ability to become a picturesque winter postcard. With heavy snowfalls and decorated trees, the city lights up into a beautiful scene each holiday season. Heidelberg is also home to Weihnachtsmarkt, a stretch of outdoor markets that span over a mile. The shops are home to intricately decorated ornaments, often handmade, and serve spiced wines and potato pancakes to keep their shoppers warm while experiencing the outdoor holiday market. Heidelberg also offers tours of the historic downtown and castle, which turns into a gorgeous winter backdrop.

Charleston, S.C.

If you’re looking for more of a down-home scene this season, look no further than Charleston, South Carolina. Known for its slightly warmer winter climate, this city will not only provide a milder stay than a northern town, but Charleston also offers up decorated holiday scenes around every corner. Even the harbor’s boats get decorated for the season. The city’s historic feel and Southern charm are also illuminated by its holiday traditions; in fact, they even have their own website at Christmasincharleston.com, where the town displays its many specials and discounts on holiday activities and events.  If you go, be sure to check out their annual Festival of Lights, held each year from Nov. 11 through Jan. 1.

Rivera Maya

Another great holiday travel destination is Rivera Maya, located on the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula. A great tropical hot spot for your vacation, Rivera Maya will allow you to spend your holidays like you’ve never spent them before. Not only will you have your own traditions, but you’ll get to experience new ones as well, all in the warmth and beauty of the Rivera Maya’s clear, crisp beaches. Throughout most of December, there is a nightly midnight ritual that celebrates Mexican religion. Many other traditions are present as well, such as wearing “lucky” underwear on New Years, and an April Fool’s Day of sorts, where friends attempt to borrow one another’s belonging without them knowing.

San Diego, CA

This popular California town leaves little to be desired when it comes to holiday tourism. Not only is San Diego known for it’s cheer, the city is home to the annual La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival, where classic city traditions meet holiday spirit. Lights can been seen at the San Diego Zoo‘s Holiday Light Display, and The December Nights is a must-see show for families of all ages and sizes. Despite the warm climate, visitors can still ice skate each year at the Hotel del Coronado, which also hosts a great annual holiday party.

Whether you choose to spend your holidays in the winter climates of the Northeastern United States and Germany, opt for a beach stay, or head to sunny California, you’re sure to find a vacation destination that the entire family can enjoy. So remember, this winter season, save yourself the stress, and vacation your holidays away instead. Not only will you get to spend the joyous season with your family, but you’ll have an entire new set of holiday traditions to look forward to next year.

Bethaney Wallace is a writer and editor for The Social Robot, an internet marketing and content production company founded in 2009. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in English, she began writing professionally. To read more of her posts, go to http://thesocialrobot.com. Or follow her on Twitter @bethaneywallace.

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
October 17th, 2011

How to Plan a Romantic Vacation

Posted by: flipkey|2 comments

by Mary White

Romantic Dinner for TwoA nice stay on the beach, candlelit dinners in the mountains, or breakfast cooked by someone else… Sound like an adventure or the second honeymoon you’ve always wanted? Romantic getaways are always a goal for couples, but the planning is often what keeps them from taking this much needed trip. Whether they don’t know where to begin, can’t pull themselves away from a busy schedule, or simply aren’t able to find a destination they agree upon, couples often hesitate when attempting to plan their getaway.  But by answering just a few questions, you and your significant other can be on your way to an easily planned and organized vacation that you’ll both enjoy.

The first hiccup in planning to overcome is to decide upon a destination.  Do you have activities in mind?  Will food play a role in your trip’s location?  Sit down with your beloved and agree upon a travel spot you both can enjoy. A compromise may be necessary here such as choosing a halfway point or shared spot of interest.  (And, if you truly can’t agree, take turns – whoever folds gets to pick the next trip!)

The most important part of planning a long weekend is choosing where to stay.  Because this is a romantic getaway and not just your run-of-the-mill family vacation, consideration to your romantic accommodations should be made. Just because you’ve chosen a charming town doesn’t mean your place of rest will be charming, private and comfortable. Research is an essential part to planning a successful and relaxing trip and, luckily, this special place might only be a few clicks away. There are many directories online for vacation home rentals and bed and breakfasts, which include romantic rooms, suites, cottages, and even private homes. Reviews are also posted that offer first-hand accounts of others’ stays in your chosen lodging.

Finally, you’ll want to plan activities for you and your sweetie. Perhaps you’re outdoors types who enjoy hiking and having an afternoon picnic. Or maybe your planned getaway is simply to, well, get away. Pack along some of your favorite movies and a bottle of champagne to help celebrate a relaxing weekend. Whatever your style, make sure the weekend is one that you and your loved one will be able to enjoy together.

The next time you think about taking a romantic vacation, don’t let the hassles or stress of planning get in the way of what should be an intimate holiday. Rather, do some simple research and then enjoy each other’s company.

Mary White is the Founder of BnBFinder.com, a leading bed & breakfast listing site and author of Running a Bed & Breakfast For Dummies.  Find more bed & breakfast stories at http://www.bnbfinder.com/blog/ or follow BnBFinder on Twitter @BnBFinder.

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
October 13th, 2011

The Perks of Professional Property Managers

Posted by: flipkey|1 comment

by Julie Byrd

There’s some chance that if you go at it alone when you’re booking a vacation property you might hit the jackpot—great space, easy setup with the owners, smooth payment process, and dream getaway. But when those things don’t work out—the property is not as it’s advertised, the owners don’t answer emails, your security deposit disappears into the ether—it can be a nightmare.

Going through rental professionals secures your vacation peace of mind on multiple levels you might not consider them when you’re planning your trip, but that prove to be essential when you’ve arrived (and the keys don’t fit the door). Rental professionals provide pre-trip planning, flexibility in site selection, a wealth of information on the best activities and most interesting things to see while you’re vacationing, and the assistance to prevent (or fix) trip disasters in the making.

Let’s look at the ways rental professionals help your trip be your dream holiday:

  • Diversity of properties

Need a secluded romantic getaway for just you two? Have to have a separate casita for the kids? Can’t relax unless there’s a pool table in the game room? Agencies have listings galore and they know their details down to how many spoons are in the silverware drawer. Ask and you shall receive.

  • Your Best Interests Served

Agency pros truly want you to be happy with your holiday. Booking agents will have real conversations with you about what you are looking for on your trip, and suggest options that you might never consider. You select the property that best reflects YOUR interests, and all of your choices will be paramount.

  • Customer Service

If the gardeners are normally scheduled to come to your villa on Sunday morning, but you love to sleep late, no problem. We’ll make an adjustment for you. Did you forget to tell us that you had to do some emergency gift shopping the day you arrive? No trouble: give us a call from your property, and we’ll hook you up. The lines are open.

  • Payment Options (and Extra Costs Banished)

You’ll have the opportunity to set up a payment schedule that fits your pocket. And you’ll never see hidden charges pop up–we spell all the figures out in advance of your trip.

  • Relocation Potential

Should the property be not what’s advertised, or should some integral property facility fail while you’re there, we’ll quickly assess the situation and whisk you away to an equally nice venue if necessary.

  • Flexibility

If something comes up and you can’t make your trip, we’ll do everything we can to reschedule the excursion for the time that’s right for you.

  • Travel Insurance and Legal issues

We will set you up with a travel insurance plan that will cover any needed contingencies, and take all the worries away regarding unforeseen incidents. We also provide you with information on legal matters (and customs) common to the country you’re visiting.

  • Area Experts

Yes, you can look at some travel guide and get the usual “You must visit this hopping bar,” or “This restaurant’s not to be missed.” But those are so often the canned “best-of” entries you see in every guidebook. Our agents have been to the properties, spent time in the surrounding cities, know EXACTLY which restaurant or bar has the best appetizers. (Hey, it’s a hard job, but …) We can tell you, from experience, not only what’s the best, but what’s the most interesting, out of the way, odd or unusual. You won’t get that out of a book.

Sure, you could always go commando in booking your own rentals, but why go through the bother and still have to face so many unknowns? Stack the deck in your favor: roll with the pros, settle back in your hammock and relax. It’s a sure thing.

Julie Byrd is the director of sales at Earth, Sea, and Sky Vacations, ranked the #1 villa rental agent in Mexico by Conde Nast Traveler.

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
September 15th, 2011

Hvar, Croatia: Local Secrets of a Dalmatian Paradise

Posted by: Kaila McIntyre-Bader|0 comments

Hvar, Croatia has become a travel fad.  Ever since it was on the front page of the New York Times Travel Magazine, this “mountainous, lavender-scented isle set in the blue, sun-blasted Adriatic Sea” has experienced a new level of tourism.  It’s no longer just Italians on summer vacation; now the square is full of travelers from all over the world speaking a variety of languages, ready to party all day and all night in paradise.

But there is a different way of experiencing Hvar!  The locals choose not to partake in the drunken daytime debauchery, and know where the least crowded beaches with the most shade are. I was lucky enough to visit the island with Brad, who is half Croatian, and a wealth of knowledge about local secrets.

Brad has been visiting his Croatian family in Hvar each summer for the past 15 years.  The first few years he came with a skateboard, which gave the local eight-year-olds reason to approach him and ask him where he was from.  They thought his American ways were funny and his skating gear was cool, and they’ve been friends ever since.

The first night we arrived, we went out to enjoy the best pizza I’ve ever had at Alviž.  This family restaurant by the church has a beautiful outdoor seating area underneath hanging grapevines, and wonderful service.  Order a mushroom pizza with a tomato salad, and don’t forget a side of traditional blitva.

Full of food and wine, we went to one of the many corner stores and bought a couple beers to enjoy on the Riva, the walkway along the harbor.  Serendipitously, Ivek, Brad’s oldest friend from the town, walked by casually.  We called his name and exchanged hugs, and he demanded we come with him to meet up with the rest of the group at Kiva Bar.  A young local favorite, this place makes up for its weak drinks with a fun crowd and loud American pop music from the 90s.

After a short nights’ sleep (it’s hard to get much shut eye when there’s so much fun to be had) we stopped for our late morning cappuccino at Cafe Loco in the main square.  Carrying some mats for the rocky beaches, lots of water, and a towel, we jumped in a taxi boat.  For 30 Kuna (about 6 bucks), these taxi boats will take you from the main square of Hvar to either Jerolim or Stipanska, two smaller islands with beautiful bays and awesome swimming.  Many tourists like to pay for expensive sun chairs and wade into the water on the crowded bay beaches, but the more adventurous folks (and locals) take a stroll and find a piece of flat rock to lounge on away from the masses.  Once we found a good spot, we spent the day soaking up the sun and jumping in the bright blue water, feeling like we were the only people on the planet.

In Hvar, while enjoying local secrets, make sure not to miss a few more mainstream activities:

  • Walking up to the fortress to watch the sunset.  Bring 2o Kuna for the entrance fee, some wine and cheese, and grab a bench.  You can see the entire town and a breathtaking view of the smaller islands off shore.
  • A daytrip to a secluded beach.  Take the bus toward Stari Grad, but tell the bus driver you’re getting off at Dubovica.  Walk down the path (bring good shoes) and you’ll end up on a pebble beach where you can rent umbrellas for shade and buy an espresso from the nice family that runs a small shop from their home.
  • One night at Veneranda.  This nightclub is absolutely ridiculous, but they have fun dance parties and serve fancy drinks within the walls of an old fortification.  Always crowded, always a good time.
Categorized as: Adventure Travel, Travel Tips Read more →
September 02nd, 2011

5 Ways to Get the Best Deals on Airport Parking

Posted by: flipkey|2 comments

by Sharon Hurley Hall

If you’re planning a holiday getaway, don’t forget about airport parking. Travelers who neglect this part of travel planning until the last minute often pay the price – literally! Making airport parking reservations is just as important as taking care of other travel arrangements – and you don’t want to leave it to chance. Here are five tips on getting the best deals on airport parking.

1. Avoid the Airport

This may seem like a strange piece of advice, but one of the best ways to save money on airport parking is to avoid the airport. Airport parking lots can be expensive, so unless you have absolutely no choice, don’t park there. A recent survey by the UK’s Travel Supermarket found that parking off airport could result in savings of 572% across an 8 day stay.

Another disadvantage of airport parking lots is the amount of time you waste driving around looking for a space and then lugging your cases to the nearest pickup point. Why risk missing your flight when there’s a much better option?

2. Choose Off Airport Parking

This goes hand in hand with the previous tip. Off airport parking lots are usually located at suitable distances from airports and the process is much easier than at the airport. All you do is drive in, hand your car over and board a shuttle to your terminal – you even get help with your bags. Best of all, this option will cost much less per day than parking at the airport – the potential savings are huge! You’ll also have peace of mind, as there’s usually security in place to make sure your car is safe. One tip: check the actual location of the parking lot before making your reservation so you can be sure it’s as convenient as you need it to be.

Road Lines3. Book Online

While you can turn up and park at an offsite airport parking lot, you will save even more if you book in advance online. Most providers offer discounts for online booking and it makes the whole arrival and departure process much more convenient too. While you’re on the site, look out for coupons. Your local off airport parking provider might also have a promotion in local media channels so don’t forget to check out local advertising for additional savings.

4. Double Dip

Points – don’t we just love ‘em? Since airport parking providers often team up with other travel industry professionals, you might be able to score additional savings via your existing points schemes. Perhaps you can save on airport parking by paying with a particular credit card, while still earning points for what you spend. Check out your airport parking provider’s website to see who the company partners with in order to make additional savings.

5. Check for Rewards

If you’re a regular traveler, then it makes sense to join the rewards scheme for your local offsite airport parking provider. Once you’ve been a member for a while, you’ll be able to get additional services (think warming or cooling your car before pickup, a valet service, car wash or free parking days) which will help you to get more bang for your buck. You won’t have to pay for them and they will make your travel experience much more enjoyable.

Follow these tips and you’ll get to have a great airport parking experience at an affordable price.

Sharon Hurley Hall is a professional writer and blogger  who runs the Taking Off Travel Blog for off airport parking provider Park Ride Fly USA.

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →
September 01st, 2011

How to Take on a Hurricane in a Vacation Rental

Posted by: Dan Weisman|1 comment

The impact of Hurricane Irene marked the beginning of peak hurricane season on the East Coast and reminded us that tropical storm season and vacation season overlap considerably. President Obama experienced this coincidence firsthand, cutting his Martha’s Vineyard vacation short in order to return to Washington before Irene hit Massachusetts. Other travelers (self included) experienced the storm’s impact from a distance, as many flights to the Eastern Seaboard were cancelled over the weekend.

Hurricane Irene

Irene is just the beginning of a hurricane season that could last through November, during which time the National Hurricane Center predicts several severe storms will hit the United States. Nevertheless, autumn is a great time to travel! Here are eight tips from FlipKey  to help you prepare for the unexpected and weather the storm in your vacation rental…

1. Get Covered with Vacation Rental Insurance
If you’re planning to travel during hurricane season, then you should look into renter’s insurance policies. Vacation rental insurance is a form of travel insurance that can cover everything from cancelled flights to damaged property. Learn more about vacation rental insurance from Flipkey. Vacation home owners should also have insurance policies that cover storm damage.

2. Contact the Homeowner
Talk to the vacation rental owner or property manager about your resources and responsibilities during a severe storm. Make sure that you discuss a cancellation and refund policy before signing a rental agreement – you don’t want to eat the cost of a vacation that suddenly becomes unavailable. Property owners should leave a comprehensive list of contact information for local services from police and EMS to trusted maintenance companies and include it in their welcome book. It’s also a good idea to have a local emergency contact if the property owner lives far away.

3. Tune in to Weather Alerts
If a storm is on the radar in your area, then listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio to stay on top of storm warnings. You can get weather information online, but if you are staying in a home that does not have Internet or television then you should make sure there is a radio available to listen to important news such as evacuation orders.

4. Take Stock of Your Supplies
Check to make sure that your rental home has emergency essentials. In the event of a serious storm warning, you may need to purchase non-perishable food and store clean drinking water, but every home should be equipped with the following:

  • Flashlights
  • Battery-operated radio
  • First aid kit
  • Warm blankets

Check with the property owner or manager if you can’t find any of the above items.

5. Charge Up
When you hear that a storm is coming your way, make sure you are prepared by charging important batteries and filling the tank of your car. If you lose power in your area, then you will want to be able to reach the outside world. Here are some important devices to have ready:

  • Cell phones
  • Flashlights
  • Radio
  • Car

6. Batten Down the Hatches
Whether you plan to weather the storm or evacuate the area, you should make sure that the house is secure before it gets hit by high winds and heavy rain. The owner should explain in advance any specific emergency procedures, such as boarding up windows, but here are some guidelines of what to look for on your own:

  • Put away or tie down any outdoor furniture and toys that could be lifted by strong winds.
  • If there are boats, find out the safest place to keep them during a storm to avoid damage.
  • Unplug small electrical appliances.
  • Disconnect propane tanks and make sure that they are secured.
  • Close windows and storm shutters before a storm hits, making sure that basement windows are sealed to minimize flooding.
  • Check with the owner to find out if there are any pumps or procedures to keep flooding under control.
  • Find a safe internal room in which to wait out the storm. Stay away from windows and doors if there are dangerous winds in your area. Evacuate high-rises and mobile homes.

7. Plan an Exit Strategy
Before a storm reaches you, you should have an evacuation plan in place. If you have plenty of advance warning, then you may choose to follow the president’s example and cut your vacation short. If you can’t get out of town, then at least determine the best way to get yourself and your family to safety. It’s a good idea to plan a meeting place well in advance, and remember to make a plan for pets. If an evacuation order is issued, then make sure you follow your plan and get to safety as efficiently as possible.

8. Be Prepared
Hopefully your fall vacation will go smoothly and have only good weather, but it’s important to prepare for the unexpected. A little research can go a long way to making safe decisions about dealing with extreme weather. For further hurricane resources, we recommend checking out the National Weather Service’s Tropical Cyclones preparedness guide and hurricane safety pamphlet.

Categorized as: Travel Tips Read more →