Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

TSA launches toll-free help line for travelers with medical needs

This is very helpful if you or someone you know is in a wheelchair or has some other disability that would cause delay at the airport. It remains to be seen whether this will make folks feel better about the screening process. Will the interaction between the disabled public and front line TSA agents be better if there is some advanced warning before reaching the airport? One can only hope.

How Not To Fall Victim to Theft at the Airport and in the Air

I wrote a post about theft in the air when a flight attendant was caught stealing from passengers flying from Tokyo to Paris. Here are some more great tips to prevent someone stealing from you in the air or on the ground at the airport.

7 Tips For Flying With Young Kids

Good tips anytime of the year for flying with young kids. Giving them a good meal before the flight and trying to fly an overnight red eye seem like perfect ways to let the kids get rest, and everyone else around them too.

Technology at ski resorts offers skiers info, images of day on slopes

Very cool tech being used at ski resorts now. Anything that can be monitored or tracked on the slopes is being done now. The trails you’ve run, the distance traveled, calories burned etc. You can also get action shots of yourself gliding down the slopes, something that rarely happened unless someone else followed you down the mountain with a camera.

Apps to Keep Children Happy While You Travel

Just one thing: If you give a child a smartphone or tablet, please please, give them headphones. No one else on the plane wants to hear the beeps and blips that come that iPad. That could be more annoying than the kid screaming or running around.

Many fliers refuse to turn off electronic gadgets

Especially now with American Airlines giving their pilots iPads with all the maps and documentation needed to fly the planes in the first place. There will never be consensus. We can agree that the best explanation is that they want devices off during takeoff and landing so that passengers can focus on the directions from flight attendants.

Tipping guide for world travelers

You should definitely do research on this before you arrive on a foreign country. In some places to give a tip is offensive. You’d think people would want more money. But it does not always work like that.

Replacing a Missing Passport While Traveling Abroad

Have a copy of the passport photo page on your person when you travel and then take a scanned image of your passport and send it to yourself in email. Much faster to get back a passport and provide at least some type of identification while you wait for the replacement passport.

10 Things You Should Not Do When Traveling with Pets

Not sure about the rest of the world, but Americans love their cats and dogs. How do you take them on trips without endangering their health or lives and not causing problems for other passengers or pets?

How to Be A Tour Guide’s Nightmare

None of you would do any of this obnoxious stuff on a tour, would you? I remember having a guy who was constantly late when I led a trip to Costa Rica. It was bad enough when he made our group of 10 late. It was another thing when he delayed an entire boat of people who were not part of our tour. He was so shamed by all the eyes he as he boarded the boat late. I don’t think he was late again for the entire trip.

Best Travel Deals and News – December 21, 2011 – How To Tip When Traveling, Keeping Kids Under Control On Planes, Turning Off Devices When Flying, What Not To Do On A Tour, What To Do When You Lose Your Passport is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

How to avoid airline fees
This story will get harder and harder to write as more airlines put in fees that you just can’t avoid. Remember the lure: super low prices and then you add the baggage fees, the fee for the (dirty) pillow and blanket, for talking to an agent on the phone, etc. This has forced travelers to become more self sufficient trying to avoid any contact with the airline until they are actually on the flight.

New rules, tips for Thanksgiving fliers
A lot of this will apply for Christmas/New Year’s travel also. Less seats means more crowded flights. As I always preach, book your flights as soon as you know what your dates are, get to the airport early and make sure to read the fine print.

Travel Video of the Week
What is CouchSurfing?

CouchSurfing has a nice brief video that explains the concept for the traveler who has not heard of it yet. You sleep on someone’s couch, spare bedroom, etc. all for free. The intent is for cultural exchange and sharing. The host does not have to, but is assumed to entertain the hostee or at least show them the ropes of the area they are in. The traveler is not supposed to abuse the privileged of getting a place to stay for free and be on their best manners.

What Not to Pack
Have you ever gone away on a trip and realized that you did not use or wear 50% of what you packed? I used to be that person, until I learned the joy of packing less clothing and the hotel/hostel/local laundry. The article also talks about jewelry and I can’t understand why anyone is taking anything of value on a plane. Unless you’re a diamond dealer or a rapper from 80s, leave the bling at home.

The etiquette of crowded flying
“Suggested” responses to some of the more common flying quandaries, like should you recline your seat and crying babies on flights. Flying requires more and more patience these days. More people slammed into the same size aircraft. With so many people in close proximity, nerves are bound to be irritated more frequently and much faster. Take a breath (or a few) and try to get to your destination without a shouting match, or being lead off the plane in handcuffs.

TSA Turns 10: Examining the Agency’s Strengths and Weaknesses
The TSA gets ridiculed for patting down wheelchair bound grandmas, forcing cancer victims to show their prosthetic breasts and making small children cry when they have to take a “closer look” at the stuffed bear. But the fact remains there has not been a successful hijacking of a plane since 9/11. We’ve had the shoe bomber, the underwear bomber and we’ve been lucky they weren’t very good at what they tried to do.

5 ways to be international at home
If you can’t travel now, there are ways to get that international flavor without jumping on a boat or plane and getting your passport stamped. I like the postcard exchange program. Very cool. They recommend hosting an exchange student. You can also become a Couchsurfing host to have a steady stream of people in your home. There are some people who love this, especially when they can’t travel.

Cancer-Causing Airport Scanners? Enough Is Enough
The debate continues on whether the new body scanners at US airports cause cancer. We probably won’t know for another 20 years, like with cell phones.

U.S. Airlines: No Pillows In Coach, But It’s Sundae Time Up Front
First class customers, you are very special to the airlines. Very, very special.

Cambodia’s surprising cuisine: Spiders, anyone?
Cambodia was where I wanted to eat the still beating cobra heart. Never got around to it. Apparently there were other treats for me to sample had I known they were there.

Get your flu shot at the airport
Miss your flu shot? You can get them at the airport. Be warned that some think the flu shot is a scam at best and at worst, part of a worldwide conspiracy.

Is Travel to Cuba for Americans Worth the Hassle?
Is it? Until the US lifts the restrictions on its citizens, we always have to be careful about getting your passport marked with a Cuban stamp.

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel Deals and News – November 22, 2011 – What is Couchsurfing, How to Avoid Airline Fees, What NOT To Pack When You Travel, Why Airlines Love First Class Passengers is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

How The Iran Hikers Could Have Avoided Their Hellish Holiday
Ummmm hire a guide? GPS? Common sense? Just glad it is over for them.

Travel Video of the Week
Hitchhiker Travels 5,000 Miles, Meets 930 People, Across US

Time lapsed video of the many many people this hitchhiker met along the way. For more information about his trip check out his interview.

Try a Private Jet, at Public Prices
Ever wanted to ride in style like a boss? You can within reason. With a combination of persistence, the Internet and some luck, you can get a private jet for prices closes to what to you pay in business class. If you’re really in luck you can get a ticket for coach prices.

More singles cabins slated for cruise line
Yeah for single cruises, who I’ve talked about before getting the short end of the stick. Single cruisers = money left on the table. The cruise lines are looking to collect all that money.

How New Generation of Young Global Jet-Setters Rack Up Frequent-Flier Miles
I had no concept of frequent flyer miles or even international travel when I was coming out of college. Those fortunate enough to get involved early get great benefits and a world view that serves them well in their business and personal lives.

How to Avoid Food Sickness While Traveling
This talks about food poisioning when you travel but that doesn’t mean it does not happen at home. I got e-coli poisisong at a hotel banquet in New Jersey. Laid me out for two days. Abroad I got sick my last time in Egypt. Running a fever and becoming the “King of the Bathroom Throne” is no fun at all. And even with all the precautions, you can never really completely avoid it. Being a vegetarian does not exclude you from trouble. In fact fruits and vegetables can be an easier way to transmit food borne disease.

Can complaining too much get you booted from a frequent flier program?
In a world – YES. Airlines can decide you are not worth the trouble if you complain all the time and they have to pay some type of compensation to you. They’d rather drop your business than dealing with you anymore.

How to travel the world without paying a penny
I bought the book reference in the article and will post a review about it. In the meantime, the idea seems completely valid.

8 Legit Ways to Travel for Free on Your RTW
Again, perfectly valid ways to travel for free or for very little money. Many times it requires thinking outside of the box, because you’ve probably never heard of other people using these ideas.

No Vacancy? No Problem! Find a Great Hotel Room When Everything Is Booked
Isn’t that the worst feeling? You can’t get the hotel room you want, there are no vacancies so you are forced to travel even more to get a hotel room. Or pay through the nose for a room. Or get a room in a substandard hotel. There are ways around it. The first thing is to call the hotel DIRECTLY as opposed to calling the national/international number for booking.

Beginner’s Guide to Gaining Points in Frequent Flyer Programs
If you keep hearing about frequent flyer miles but don’t know where to get started, this is a great primer on what to do to begin.

Which airlines were voted the World’s Best by passengers
The only US based carrier in the top 10 is Virgin America and only one more US carrier in the top 20. What do US based carriers need to do to break into this list?

The problem with staying in hostels
It doesn’t end the way you think it does….

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel News and Deals – September 27, 2011 – Fly a Private Jet at Coach Prices, More Single Cabins on Cruise Ships, How to Travel Long Term on the Cheap, Get a Hotel When Everything is Booked is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

How to travel with friends (and not want to kill them)
Travel with friends is great. It is also the best reason to travel solo. A contradiction? Yes but it is the truth. A group trip is fine and as someone who has organized the a trip to Costa Rica for 9 people I didn’t know beforehand, it has its challenges. You have to be really patient for group trips. If you are easily bothered, impatient or a Type A, group trips are really not for your.

13 Budget Beach Destinations Around the World
If you’re missed the beach this year, hold on this for next year.

Travel Video of the Week
Geraldo Rivera and Hurricane Ike
Ok so this is not travel related. But Irene storming through the USA reminded me of why TV and cable news gets accused of sensationalism. Why does the reporter have to be in the middle of the storm like this? Geraldo gets beat up pretty good by the waves. A hint: When you see firefighters start to leave an area, it may be time for you to go to. Just sayin’…

For more videos of reporters caught in crazy weather conditions The 10 Best Videos of Reporters Being Blown Away by Hurricanes

10 Most-Complained-About US Airlines
Number 1 is United, but I’m not sure how much that means. There is no one US airline that would get sterling reviews from the majority of fliers.

How to Order Food in Japan
Language can be a big barrier in Japan. But there are plently of people who don’t speak a lick of Japanese who have gone and not starved to death *raises hand*. But knowing what to order can make the overall experience much better and give you a different perspective on the culture.

After 9/11: Are We Safer in the Air?
Air travel changed forever by Sept. 11

The first and second week of September is probably my least favorite time of the year now. All the 9/11 retrospectives are all over the media and I can’t stand to watch or read for too long. One thng we can’t avoid is how much 9/11 has changed the travel industry. The Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) did not exist before 9/11. Pat downs and invasive scanners have become part of the national discussion. Some of us are extra vigilant on planes. Who is suspicious? Why does he make me nervous? The changes are not only on a government or agency level but on a personal one as well.

How to (Almost) Guarantee You’ll Never Have to Check Your Luggage Again
As someone said before, “There are two types of luggage: carry-on and lost.”

How to protect your luggage from being pilfered
It’s sad that someone has to put in a fake badge to deter people baggage handlers and other airline/airport employees from stealing from you. But you do what you have to do to get your items from point A to point B. The best way: DO NOT check any luggage.

Tunisia hopes Arab Spring inspires visitors
How comfortable are you right now going to North Africa and the Middle East?

Strategies for storm-tossed travelers
These same strategies can apply whether it is a tropical storm, hurricane or snow blizzard.

5 Credit Cards Every Traveler Should Consider
Frequent flier miles, free nights at hotels, and other goodies await when you have certain credit cards. This list is by no means comprehensive, but gives you a good idea of what to look when selecting a new credit card to get points.

Solo travel websites for mature travelers
Mature travelers have the time on their hands to see the globe but most of the resources available are geared toward the younger set. You can’t ignore this market. They have disposable cash, they want to travel and they need information. Here’s a little help.

American Airlines Begins Charging Extra for Window and Aisle Seats in Economy
And the fees continue to pile up. Wasn’t there a fee for the plane ticket that covered the seat you are sitting in already. Ridiculous!

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel Deals and News – August 30, 2011 – How to Travel with Groups, Budget Beach Travel, Senior Travel Resources, How to Protect Your Luggage is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

Finding Senior Discounts

Sorry my seasoned travelerfriends. There are not any more resources for discounts that are not available for anyone else. Your best bets for discounts involve using the organizations you’re part of. A work union, automobile club, etc. If you’re an active or retired member of the military, police or fire departments, some places will just give you a discount if you ask for it.

More Airline Tricks and How to Avoid Them

Airlines can reschedule flights for legitimate reasons. When they do, they have an obligation to put you on the flight and refund the money if the new flight does not agree with you. Many travelers don’t know this and take the new flight even when it is not convenient for them. Stick up for yourself and try to get the flight that works for you, even if it means being on a different carrier.

Travel Video of the Week
Stuff Your Rucksack

Doing good while you travel is a win/win for everyone. Punch your destination into the Stuff Your Rucksack website and find out what is needed where you are going. Now you can stuff your suitcase with socks, notebooks, cell phones or whatever else is needed.

9 Best Foodie Walking Tours

Just reading this and seeing the plates of food makes me hungry. Major metropolitan areas in the US are covered and a wide diversity of foods and cuisines are covered.

Seoul’s Virtual Subway Supermarket

Definitely something to check out the next time you’re in Seoul. Wherever you can make it convenience for consumers to purchase products, you have to put yourself there. In this case ‘Location, Location, Location’ is very true.

Yukari Miyamae Gropes TSA Agent At Phoenix Airport

Turning the tables gone wrong. Some fed up travelers would see this as justice, but the TSA does not see it that way. I expect many to come to this woman’s defense.

TSA takes first steps toward ‘trusted travel’ program

I actually thought this program was already in the place and considered signing up for it. The pilot would have travelers NOT have to remove shoes or take computers out of cases, among other things. But for the government to properly vet you, they have not said what additional information they would need from you to fly through security lines. Beyond the intense background check what else would Homeland Security need? Bank accounts? Employer history? Credit statements?

Point-to-point discount airlines: Cheap flight strategies for complicated itineraries

Doing alittle research can have you save greatly by booking on different tickets on different airlines rather than booking a one way ticket on the same airline. But there are drawbacks, especially if this is done internationally. You’ll need a visa to transfer flight, since you can technically leave the airport before you jump on the next flight.

40 free attractions in New York

Another addition to my going blog post on ways to save in New York City.

Just Back from Europe: 10 Lessons of Rewarding, Cost-Conscious Travel

Some good and well used ideas for Arthur Frommer after his recent trip to Europe.

EXTRA: Travel Video of the Week
Naked streaker attacked by Bull in bizarre Pamplona festival

I would consider everyone in an enclosed ring with an agitated bull to be crazy. But you are deranged to run the ring, stark butt naked and teasing the animals with what looks like a red scarf. Nude dude got gored, had an artery severed and was ARRESTED for creating a disturbance because he was completely naked. Don’t think we’ll see him next year…

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel Deals and News – July 19, 2011 – Senior Travel Discounts, Food Walking Tours, How To Get Cheap Flights, Free Things To Do in New York is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

More for Your Money: The quest for transparent airline fees
Surprise, surprise. The airlines are fighting against full disclosure of all fees as you are booking your flight. What are they trying to hide? Surprises are good on anniversaries and birthdays, not when you’re booking an airline ticket.

$100 Weekend in Istanbul
Commenters have brought up a good point about these $100 weekend series of articles. $100 or its equivalent greatly limits what you can do, see and eat. Is the whole concept flawed or does it force you to be more resourceful when you travel?

Travel Video of the Week
Running of the Bulls 2011: Get Out of the Way!

Crazy, courageous or a little bit of both. Either way, when you have a large animal with horns running behind you, you’ll probably find that extra gear for speed you never knew you had. One thing I did not know is that women can run, but are highly discouraged from doing so. Running with the bulls is a macho thing and unseemly for a woman, according to Spanish culture.

What to See and Do in South Sudan: The World’s Newest Country
South Sudan is literally only days old as I write this, but I know many are clamoring to figure out how to get there and experience this country for the first time. The birth of a nation is something that is so historic it is tempting to visit just for the experience. Best wishes for this newborn country and its people. Here are some attractions that could cause you to get a ticket on the next flight.

Banned Foods In The U.S. (and What To Bring Back Instead)

A great list of products you can and can’t bring back from your trip overseas. Generally canned or processed products are OK. Anything that can harbor insects, parasites, etc are a no no.

What is the most expensive city in the world to live?

Not only that but New York is only #49 on the list of the most expensive cities to live? I find that are to believe.

Want to Live Abroad? You’ll Want to Read the Top 10 Cheapest Cities For Expats

The data is slightly different but generally shows the same patterns in terms of the cheapest and most expensive places to live. The criteria is sdifferent as it talks about ex-pats, who may have different expenses that a citizen who lives there full time.

Get a Better Seat on the Plane by Avoiding Airlines That Offer Elite Travel Status

That pretty much means to avoid the biggest US based carriers. Airlines like JetBlue, Virgin America, other smaller carriers are your best bets.

How airlines use Twitter – June 2011 [infographic]

Are airlines more active on Twitter because they are trying to help their customers or because they need to deal with the complaints that come through Twitter?

Confessions of…A Jersey Shore Lifeguard

Ummm…I’m glad the ocean is big after reading what the do in the water. Not enough bathrooms or private places nearby apparently….

How to Drive to the Arctic Circle

Is that comparable to Antarctica? Not sure but it is definitely more accessible than the southern pole. Hop in a car and drive up. But got to take a few more preparations for the cold and bears. Yes, bears.

When to buy and fly cheap plane tickets to Asia

Tips on how to fly to Asia. With the flights so expensive and so long in travel, you’ll want to maximize your time and your money. There was a recent deal from New York -JFK to Tokyo – Haneda for $199 base ticket price ROUND TRIP. Once taxes and fees were added the prices was about $857. Much more than the original price but still a great bargain for flying 26-28 hours total.

How to use a concierge

Use them! That is what they are hired to do and take great pleasure in making requests happen. As long as it is legal they will try to get it done. Ice cubes in the pool because the water is too warm. Done. Seating at the hot restaurant that has been sold out for months. Done. And don’t forget to tip if the concierge has done you a solid. Who doesn’t appreciate a tip?

As A Gracious Bonus to Its Passengers, Royal Caribbean Cruises Will Permit Them to Tour the Inner Workings of Their Ships — For $150

I always thought ship tours were free or much lower in cost than this. There are other ship lines that charge less, but not many are free. I still think many passengers would snap this offer up.

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel Deals and News – July 12, 2011 – Running of the Bulls, Paying for Your Cruise Tour, Get A Better Seat on Your Flight, What Foods Can You Carry Through Customs is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

6 travel scams to avoid on your next trip

You try to be open when you’re traveling, but your openness makes you a target for scammers who will take advantage of your goodwill. How do you protect yourself without limiting your interactions with new people and cultures. There is no good answer for that. Trust your instincts and if something does not smell right to you, don’t be afraid to abruptly walk away. Don’t be afraid to be embarrassed or offend someone if you feel uncomfortable.

Americans have more restrictions removed for visits to Cuba

It really did not make as big of a splash as you thought it would because you still need to travel with a company for it to be legal. You can’t just just on plane and explore Cuba (at least not legally). But if you sign up with a group for cultural exchange, you can make Cuba your oyster.

Travel Video of the Week
Scorpion on a Plane
Passenger is on a plane to Alaska, feels something on his arm, looks down and sees a scorpion on his arm

How Could I Afford to Travel Around the World for 2 Years?

I had the pleasure of meeting Lisa a few times and her story should be an inspiration to anyone who wants to travel long term. It is possible, no matter your circumstances.

7 Frequent Flier tips that only the pros know

Business class lounges can be purchased for daily use. So if you have a long layover or just want to get into a comfortable seat with a hot buffet, the airline lounges may be the way to go for you. I never realized you can buy frequent flier miles. You may say what is the point when I earn them when I fly? Let’s say you’re about to reach a certain threshold to get more rewards. As opposed to flying to get them, plunk down your cash to get the miles and get the rewards that come with it without taking off.

10 of the World’s most thrilling airports

Thrilling…or the most panic inducing airports in the world. Be sure to bring a change of underwear.

How To Use Frequent Flyer Miles To Go Anywhere

Chris is a master of collecting and using frequent flier miles. Anything he says on the subject, you definitely want to read.

10 Ways to Survive 24+ Hours of Flying & Airports

The tips mostly talk about being on a plane, where I try to sleep as much as I can. I actually love airports. Wandering through the different restuarants, reading all the latest at Hudson News, people watching….

On Safari: If Africa’s Animals Were Motivational Speakers

I love this post because it probably repeats all the things you’ve heard from self-help speakers and books, but with African animals as the back drop.

13 of the Most Unusual Snack Foods From Around the World

I’m always willing to try anything once, but some of this stuff sound like hell in your mouth. I’ve had the durian in Thailand and the taste is nothing like the smell. I understand they have banned people from taking durian into the Bangkok train system and for good reason.

Malaysia Airlines Defends First-Class Baby Ban

Malaysia Airlines, I agree with you. Would you take a baby in a fine five star restaurant? How about to a nice theater performance? When I’m sipping my Champagne and eating my steak in first class, I don’t want to hear a screaming baby. Parents, you might have a different take on this. Tell us what you think in the comments below.

10 Fun Activities To Do When Visiting New York

Check out my New York City on a budget post where I put together all the different things on the web I’ve found on how to save money in New York City.

The Big Apple on a Budget: Discovering New York from a Different Angle

More on New York.

What You Can Do As A Solo Traveler to Save When Booking a Cruise?

Good news for solo travelers who want to cruise and but don’t want to pay the single supplement. I have to believe the solo traveler is the only demographic cruise lines have not pitched to until recently. With everyone scrambling for dollars in this economy, ignoring a subset of travelers with money to spend is leaving money on the table.

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel Deals and News – July 5, 2011 – How to Avoid Travel Scams, Scorpion on a Plane, Babies Banned from First Class, Travel to Cuba Saving Money in New York City is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

State Department Launches iPhone Travel App

And you know what, it’s pretty good. Shocking yes I know. Try it out.

5 Tips to Avoid Flying With Kids

If you’re someone who break out in hives if a 3 year old walks do the aisle of plane and you wish for an adult only section of aircraft, this article is for you. How to get away from kids when you fly may not be politically correct, but there are plenty of people who are thinking it.

Travel Video of the Week
How to Pack for Long Term Travel
Good friend Sherry of Ottsworld gives some quick tips on how to pack for long term travel. She should know about this because she packing to race in the Mongol Rally. The Mongol Rally is a competition where teams drive from from England to Mongolia. It’s not really a race against the other teams and their vehicles but more about actually finishing the race. The cars are purposely undersized

Travel Insider: Don’t take a vacation from Internet security

Criminals don’t take a holiday when you do. In fact, they are ready to pounce because your guard is down. Not just pickpocketing you as you sightsee or robbing your unoccupied home, but stealing your passwords when using WiFi in an airport. How about double swiping your your credit card to steal information off the magnetic strip? Practical tips that can help you avoid getting taken for a ride on your trip.

Bus Tour Firm Shut Down for Transporting Passengers in Luggage Compartment

How desperate must you be to ride in the luggage compartment?!

Free Walking Tours

I did free walking tours in London, Paris and Amsterdam. They are were all great, lead by people with fun personalities and an encyclopedia’s worth of knowledge about the areas we were traveling through. The biggest tour group in Europe is the one I used and I highly recommend it to anyone. You shouldn’t feel pressured to pay, but if you enjoyed yourself, please tip well.

How to Avoid Getting Screwed When You’re a Tourist
RFID passport shields for the security conscious among you may be something to really consider. Your passport can be read by machines without you even knowing. Identify theft is not something you want to deal with, especially when you are traveling.

Airline Shoppers who Procrastinate Miss Out on Ticket Deals
You have to move fast to pick on those great deals. Many times they are there for only a few hours and then sell out fast. I like to use Travelzoo and Airfarewatchdog for their timely email and Twitter alerts. Individual airlines also use social media to get the word out on the special deals.

Flyers Must Be Quick on Their Feet for Flash Airfare Sales

Sign up on Facebook and Twitter for the best travel deals. I’ll keep repeating that until blue in the face, or the fingers as it would be.

How to take pets on road trips

Some owners can’t bear to leave Fido and Kitty at home. If you’re going to9 take them on your excursion, you must prepare to make everyone can enjoy the trip.

Pack your bags to avoid security hand inspection loss

Love this article becuase it really lays out what you need to do to pass through security quickly. What about the TSA agents who don’t change gloves after handling dozens of bags, clothing including underwear, brushes, combs, etc. Make sure your bag does not need to be opened.

Summer in the City: 7 Things to Do in NYC for Free

New York is expensive is the mantra you always hear but you just have to look around. I’m here to help with this article and some of these from the archives.
Free Local New York City Guides
New York: 7 free outdoor adventures

Tours4Fun is your one stop shop for guided tours in the USA and round the world. Please support NoDebtWorldTravel.com by visiting our sponsor.

Best Travel Deals and News – June 21, 2011 – Free Walking Tours in Europe, Traveling with Pets, How To Avoid Kids When You Fly, How to Pack for Extended Travel is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com and sponsored by Tours4Fun.com.

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

Delta Passenger Kicked Off Plane For Using F-Word

Airlines and flight attendants in particular seem to have a zero tolerance policy toward unruly passengers. I completely agree with this policy but if you listen the passenger’s side, he was not directing his f-bomb to anyone in particular. The truth is probably somewhere in between. The passenger, Robert Sayegh, is a children’s book author. Irony anyone?

Touring the Boeing factory

This would be high on the list of reasons to head to Seattle. We fly on planes all the time, but to see how they put them together would be awesome.

Travel Video of the Week
Stuck
Two professional photographers, Joe Ayala and Larry Chen, are stuck in an airport overnight and decide to spend the time filming their escapades. They raced in wheelchairs down deserted corridors, made announcements on the public address system and drank beer from a deserted airport restaurant. While funny, some are concerned that the pair had too much access to the airport. Airport administration says that the two were always being watched and did not break any laws.

STUCK from Joe Ayala on Vimeo.

25 things about LAX

The one major US city that I want to get to but have not been to yet. Most everyone passes through LAX and while I’ve heard some not so flattering things about it, it is a major gateway into and out the US from the Pacific. It must have some redeeming points, no?

The world’s 14 best-value destinations

I like all of these places because most are off the beaten path and not on the lips of most travelers. And they are cheap. But remember that an inexpensive destination does not mean it is any less fun, culturally rich or engaging.

Billions and Billions in Bag Fees and Penalties

How the airlines are staying afloat. Charging fees for baggage and pretty much everything else. On my last international flight, I just a carry-on and the bag holding my laptop. No extra charges. The bag fees lead into the printed board pass fees, which lead into the talking to a human to book your reservation fee, etc. I hate them but I think they are an necessary evil.

Avoid bag fees with these smart packing tips

I just tried rolling my clothes as opposed to folding and I think they are right. I did feel like I definitely has more room in my carry-on.

We’ve still got it good: UK flights used to cost $110,000

Everything is relative right? We complain about prices now, but they are less expensive than they were 30-40 years ago. Back then flying was for the rich and elite. The democratization of flying has made it accessible to most everyone who has at least $50 in their pocket, but it also means it has become a ‘flying bus service’. Good or bad thing?

8 common air travel snafus (and how to beat them)

The one thing I learned: Check in as soon as you can. Most airlines allow you to check in online 48 hours before the flight. The faster you check in, the less likely you will be bumped from the flight. If you really need to get somewhere, don’t take any chances and check in asap. If you have time to spare and think you may be able to get cash for being bumped, you can take the chance.

How to deal with airport strandings

Have your airline’s phone number on your cell phone when you travel. If you get bumped, if there is a weather delay or mechanical problems, you jump in the line to get rebooked AND call the customer service number at the same time. Between those two methods, you will get booked faster than everyone else in the same predicament.

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Best Travel Deals and News – June 14, 2011 – Get Bumped – Get Rebooked, Best Travel Value Destinations, Best Travel Packing Tips, Avoid Airline Ticket Problems is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel

Travel news and deals of interest to YOU from around the Web compiled and edited by NoDebtWorldTravel.com

If you know any great travel stories or tips we all should read, please send it to me and I will put an acknowledgment of your contribution in the posting.

Baby boomers eye adventure, bucket list

So many assume that travel is for the young, when older people are prime candidates to take off and travel. They have the time and hopefully some money saved, and they are finished taking care of their family and others and want to do something for themselves. Go boomers go!

Fear of flying? Does knowing more about planes help, or is ignorance bliss?

One writer who beat back her fear of flying with good old fashioned willpower. But to those of you who feared flying and overcame it, what helped you? Was it just buckling into your seat and taking off anyway? Therapy? Taking a class about planes?

Travel Video of the Week
Morocco and Spain in less than 3 minutes
Traveler pieced together his 4000 pictures of Spain and Morocco in a nice video that just gives you a taste of these two countries. Cool music and even better images.

Lawmakers Move To Make TSA Patdowns A Felony

One word: Ridiculous

Seven tips to book great summer trips on a budget

With gas prices still high any words of wisdom on saving money should be read and reread. The first tip is an interesting one: Try to book a ski resort for the summer. Ski resorts are nowhere near capacity because nobody thinks about them until November. There are still things to do at a significant discount.

Flight Delays: 5 Things You Must Know About the Weather

We think snowstorms and ice as major flight delayers, but summer thunderstorms, strong winds and hail can make for a bad travel experience. What should you do if you are delayed by this weather? The same thing you would do in the winter: get ready to rebook immediately if you sense any flight delay is coming.

10 reasons you know it’s time to go traveling

Part stand up comedy routine, but all truth.

Unusual Items Worth Packing on Your Next Vacation

I would add plastic zip lock bags to the list. Great for holding liquids and gels in case the bottle breaks, and containing small items like loose change that would set off a metal detector at the airport.

Ten Family Travel Med Kit Essentials

Sunscreen and wide brim hats for folks of any complexion. Yes even dark skin people can burn in the intense sun. I remember being in Brazil and peeling for weeks after I came home because I ran around in the hot sun for hours at time.

Best Travel News and Deals – May 17, 2011 – Baby Boomer Travel, Tips to Book a Budget Summer Trip, What to Pack on Your Next Trip, Travel Medical Kit is a post from: NoDebtWorldTravel