Not blogging too often. At WSOP in Las Vegas and the long hours are a physical and mental grind. Don't know how pros keep it up. I guess it's like every career. I just keep thinking poker is a game and should be relaxing and fun. It's not!!! I think taking the SATs in Latin would be less daunting. Veni, vidi, vici.
FWI...the new passport laws take affect June 1. U.S. citizens must now have valid passport to enter Canada and Mexico. Don't get caught with your pants down. Always be ready to travel.
That last sentence made me think of Glengarry Glen Ross. What an awesome movie! "A-B-C...A-Always, B-Be, C-Closing. Always be closing." And, "Put that coffee down! Coffee is for closers, only." Good stuff.
Picks of the Day(17-5-0)...Red Sox, Detroit, Philly
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
I'm a history buff; you should be one, too.
I am by no means an archaeologist, a historical sociologist or anthropologist. I am merely a meager, unpretentious history aficionado. I don't claim to have all or any of the answers. Nor do I even have an inkling of the correct questions. But two things which I am certain to be true are... the closer one looks at history, the less coherent it becomes; and history is doomed to repeat itself. These dilemmas intrigue me like eternal afterlife questions monopolize the fears of most of the secular world. I am consumed.
For the most part, we are the history we create it to be. Huh? Say what? Hear me out.
Heinrich Schliemann discovered the lost city of Troy. This is a commonly retold story that we accept as fact. Practically everyone does. Right? Not necessarily, I say. Heinrich Schliemann definitely discovered an ancient city in Asia Minor. This is a fact. But what city is it? Did Troy truly ever exist? There is really no evidence to substantiate this claim. Or was it merely a story from the imagination of a poet? Jeez, I write stories all the time. I even wrote a novel of 120,000 words and not one word of it true. So has Steven King. He's written something like 30 of them and I hope to all Hell none of his warped print is real. Do you see where I'm going here?
How about Arthur Evan's discovery of the Palace of King Minos. Travelers, archaeologists and tourists pilgrim to Knossos, on Crete, annually to take a look at this historical site. Yet, there is no concrete evidence that the structure all these people pay to see is King Minos' Palace or that the crumbled remains were even a palace at all. What's really funny (odd), there is no evidence that King Minos had anything to do with its construction or its habitation. And you wanna hear something really outrageous? King Minos, well...there may never have been a King Minos. There is certainly no proof he ever existed.
I know you are wondering, what do I know? Well, that's exactly what you should be wondering. I admittedly know very little and either does anyone else. The "knowledged" will not tell you so. Why mess with their own fame or own income or their own contribution to history? Think about it. If one "educated" scholar can get their own theory (opinion) published and read by enough other "educated" scholars who in turn can't discredit the theory (opinion). Eventually, over time after enough people educated or not reads this undiscredited opinion and then folks, tuh duh, we have "history". What makes this new history even better its our own history and we can paint it any color and give it any name. Molded, comfortable, roomy history, just the way we like it.
Now that you have listened to me banter for some time, you are probably wondering what does this have to do with travel and storytelling. To put it bluntly, everything. From a distance, or from the chapter headings of a textbook, history looks very tidy indeed. We were even forced to memorize it for tests. But on closer inspection, it all breaks down. In fourth grade I was taught that Columbus sailed west from Spain in search of a shorter route to China, all the while fearful that the world may really be flat. Several years later in tenth grade I read that Ptolemy, a 2nd Century Egyptian astronomer, proved mathematically that the world was a globe. That's some 1200 years earlier. Problem was, the Church preferred a different suit of invisible clothes. They liked the idea that the world was flat and Jerusalem was at the center. Much like the hole on a compact disk. Very convenient and comfy, like a terrycloth robe and slippers, huh? And conveniently, I wasn't taught that bit of info in school. I stumbled across something unusual while traveling with my dad overseas. I saw a relief etched into a wall of a very old building that resembled Earth. You know...the round one. Funny thing, it was etched almost a 500 years before Columbus. After my dad and I returned I raced to the public library and found the information about Ptolemy findings. How could this be? I was taught something wholly different. My father scoffed and said, "That is why you must step out. Truths are to be found, not told." I was pissed! My friggin' teachers lied to me! And at the time, I believed it was on purpose.
Travel is about experiences, finding truths and learning who you are, not what someone tells you. Sometimes one must leave to find themselves and uncover personal truths. And its never as convenient as the chapter headings of a textbook.
Let's uncover some truths together. Give me a buzz, text, Twitter or email. It is easiest to contact me at thetravelvalet@gmail.com.
Pick of the Day(16-5-0)...Texas
For the most part, we are the history we create it to be. Huh? Say what? Hear me out.
Heinrich Schliemann discovered the lost city of Troy. This is a commonly retold story that we accept as fact. Practically everyone does. Right? Not necessarily, I say. Heinrich Schliemann definitely discovered an ancient city in Asia Minor. This is a fact. But what city is it? Did Troy truly ever exist? There is really no evidence to substantiate this claim. Or was it merely a story from the imagination of a poet? Jeez, I write stories all the time. I even wrote a novel of 120,000 words and not one word of it true. So has Steven King. He's written something like 30 of them and I hope to all Hell none of his warped print is real. Do you see where I'm going here?
How about Arthur Evan's discovery of the Palace of King Minos. Travelers, archaeologists and tourists pilgrim to Knossos, on Crete, annually to take a look at this historical site. Yet, there is no concrete evidence that the structure all these people pay to see is King Minos' Palace or that the crumbled remains were even a palace at all. What's really funny (odd), there is no evidence that King Minos had anything to do with its construction or its habitation. And you wanna hear something really outrageous? King Minos, well...there may never have been a King Minos. There is certainly no proof he ever existed.
I know you are wondering, what do I know? Well, that's exactly what you should be wondering. I admittedly know very little and either does anyone else. The "knowledged" will not tell you so. Why mess with their own fame or own income or their own contribution to history? Think about it. If one "educated" scholar can get their own theory (opinion) published and read by enough other "educated" scholars who in turn can't discredit the theory (opinion). Eventually, over time after enough people educated or not reads this undiscredited opinion and then folks, tuh duh, we have "history". What makes this new history even better its our own history and we can paint it any color and give it any name. Molded, comfortable, roomy history, just the way we like it.
Now that you have listened to me banter for some time, you are probably wondering what does this have to do with travel and storytelling. To put it bluntly, everything. From a distance, or from the chapter headings of a textbook, history looks very tidy indeed. We were even forced to memorize it for tests. But on closer inspection, it all breaks down. In fourth grade I was taught that Columbus sailed west from Spain in search of a shorter route to China, all the while fearful that the world may really be flat. Several years later in tenth grade I read that Ptolemy, a 2nd Century Egyptian astronomer, proved mathematically that the world was a globe. That's some 1200 years earlier. Problem was, the Church preferred a different suit of invisible clothes. They liked the idea that the world was flat and Jerusalem was at the center. Much like the hole on a compact disk. Very convenient and comfy, like a terrycloth robe and slippers, huh? And conveniently, I wasn't taught that bit of info in school. I stumbled across something unusual while traveling with my dad overseas. I saw a relief etched into a wall of a very old building that resembled Earth. You know...the round one. Funny thing, it was etched almost a 500 years before Columbus. After my dad and I returned I raced to the public library and found the information about Ptolemy findings. How could this be? I was taught something wholly different. My father scoffed and said, "That is why you must step out. Truths are to be found, not told." I was pissed! My friggin' teachers lied to me! And at the time, I believed it was on purpose.
Travel is about experiences, finding truths and learning who you are, not what someone tells you. Sometimes one must leave to find themselves and uncover personal truths. And its never as convenient as the chapter headings of a textbook.
Let's uncover some truths together. Give me a buzz, text, Twitter or email. It is easiest to contact me at thetravelvalet@gmail.com.
Pick of the Day(16-5-0)...Texas
Thursday, May 28, 2009
I may be an Addict
While I proudly flaunt my feathers and crow, "I've never been addicted to anything," there should be a caveat to this claim. I really may be an addict after all. To cruises. Cruise addicts can't wait to "get back out there." I am one.Hello, my name is Al, the Travel Valet, and I'm a cruise addict. I am hungry to explore places I never been before. I am weak; I admit it. I love to prepay and not worry about money. I love to eat what and when I choose. I love to relax and appreciate not having to juggle itineraries or rush to connections. And, most of all, I love the ocean.
Several years ago, I considered living at sea on The World, a ResidentSea cruise ship, but couldn't adapt my life to accomodate living at sea. I have a teenager, enough said. Possibly at some point my life's priorities will change (hopefully, the kid will get tired of my nagging and leave...just kidding) and I can move to the sea. Until then, I am stuck anticipating my next opportunity "get out there."
Many of us have cruised on the classic seven day Caribbean, Alaskan and Medite
rrean voyages and we are eager for something new, longer and more exotic. Traveling to exciting, undiscovered and remote ports, visiting more than one region or continent or even venturing through multiple climates can offer an exciting twist to your cruise vacation. Well, have you considered what I like to call Grand Voyages? These grand voyages incorporate most or all of the above. If you are interested please contact me at thetravelvalet@gmail.com.Pick of the Day(15-5-0)...Red Sox
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Al's back in Las Vegas for WSOP
I just spent the better part of the day at the Rio All Suites Casino in Las Vegas. Tuesday was the first day of the seven week Pokerpaloosa surrounding the Super Bowl of poker, the WSOP. This is
the fifth year the World Series of Poker is being held at the cavernous Rio and most likely its last. Harrah's has been talking of moving the event to Caesar's Palace for several years. And it seems the time has come because Harrah's Entertainment has been looking to unload the eighteen year old Rio to the highest bidder.
It's way too early to tell how the tournament will fare in our current economic downturn. One thing is for sure, though, the eastern European countries will be well represented. These young dynamos honed their skills at online poker sites like Full Tilt and then bought a transatlantic ticket to riches. Their meteoric rise has been amazing.
I'll be focusing a little more time on Twitter while at the WSOP. Please follow me at TravelValet on Twitter. I'll constantly update you...tweet tweet. You can click on me directly along the right hand column under "Twitter Tweets."
Pick of the Day(14-5-0)...Giants
the fifth year the World Series of Poker is being held at the cavernous Rio and most likely its last. Harrah's has been talking of moving the event to Caesar's Palace for several years. And it seems the time has come because Harrah's Entertainment has been looking to unload the eighteen year old Rio to the highest bidder.
It's way too early to tell how the tournament will fare in our current economic downturn. One thing is for sure, though, the eastern European countries will be well represented. These young dynamos honed their skills at online poker sites like Full Tilt and then bought a transatlantic ticket to riches. Their meteoric rise has been amazing.
I'll be focusing a little more time on Twitter while at the WSOP. Please follow me at TravelValet on Twitter. I'll constantly update you...tweet tweet. You can click on me directly along the right hand column under "Twitter Tweets."
Pick of the Day(14-5-0)...Giants
Monday, May 25, 2009
Memoirs
Travels with Michael Crichton is on my nightstand flirting with me to pick it up. I'm afraid if I succumb to the book's nasty propositions, we'll be up all night trying to finish what we started. Sometimes some stories are just too entertaining to set aside and this romantic innuendo started my typical random line of thinking.
With the addition of the Kindle and ease of downloading entire libraries to your iPhone, I thought you might enjoy a few thoughts on a great travel companion, the memoir. While not a huge fan of the memoir, there are a few very noteworthy tell-all tales that will suck you in and make that
transatlantic flight seem like a vacation by itself.
A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway- His comfortable writing style makes you feel like your sitting in a 1920's cafe across from the Sorbonne with the likes of Ezra Pound, Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Keenly aware of his expatriate status and Fitzgerald's self-defeating character and Stein's sense of value, Hemingway takes us on a series of entertaining tales that offers us a chance to gain a glimpse of his perspective. Published posthumously in 1964, the memoir was probably heavily edited by his widow, but Hemingway drips from its pages.
The Strawberry Statement by James Simon Kunen- 1968 was a culturally troubling time for many including Kunen who was at Columbia University. The university students were outraged over Vietnam and the construction of a racially segregated gym. The memoir chronicles the students uprising on campus and his participation in said events including being chased by club-wielding police.
The Crack-Up by F. Scott Fitzgerald- Mostly a collection of essays compiled by his editor in 1940 shortly after the author's death. "Of course all life is a process of breaking down..." These first lines of the first essay give the reader a sense of what's to come, Fitzgerald's self-destructing relationship with his wife, Zelda, and alcohol. The writings generally accumulated during Fitzgerald's "down" years gives us great insight into his faltering life.
Walking Through the Fire: A Hospital Journey by Laurel Lee- Six months pregnant and with a nagging cough, Lee went numb when her doctor uttered the word, "tumor." After returning from the hospital after her latest bout with Hodgkin's, she discovers that her husband is going to leave her for the babysitter. She writes to heal. Her struggles with faith and her spiritual journey to recovery fill the central portion of the memoir. At some point she begins to share her writings with her doctor. He sends them on to an editor friend, the memoir is published and she becomes a best-seller. Pancreatic cancer eventually beats Lee, but the courageous fighter makes it to 58.
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer- This account of the deadly 1996 climbing season up Mt. Everest is mesmerizing. Krakauer who is both a writer and climber journals a poignant tale that was instantly disputed by others on the same climb. What I find too ironic is within 18 months after Into Thin Air is published the very people who disputed Krakauer's version of the '96 climbing season died on subsequent assents.
With the addition of the Kindle and ease of downloading entire libraries to your iPhone, I thought you might enjoy a few thoughts on a great travel companion, the memoir. While not a huge fan of the memoir, there are a few very noteworthy tell-all tales that will suck you in and make that
transatlantic flight seem like a vacation by itself.A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway- His comfortable writing style makes you feel like your sitting in a 1920's cafe across from the Sorbonne with the likes of Ezra Pound, Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Keenly aware of his expatriate status and Fitzgerald's self-defeating character and Stein's sense of value, Hemingway takes us on a series of entertaining tales that offers us a chance to gain a glimpse of his perspective. Published posthumously in 1964, the memoir was probably heavily edited by his widow, but Hemingway drips from its pages.
The Strawberry Statement by James Simon Kunen- 1968 was a culturally troubling time for many including Kunen who was at Columbia University. The university students were outraged over Vietnam and the construction of a racially segregated gym. The memoir chronicles the students uprising on campus and his participation in said events including being chased by club-wielding police.
The Crack-Up by F. Scott Fitzgerald- Mostly a collection of essays compiled by his editor in 1940 shortly after the author's death. "Of course all life is a process of breaking down..." These first lines of the first essay give the reader a sense of what's to come, Fitzgerald's self-destructing relationship with his wife, Zelda, and alcohol. The writings generally accumulated during Fitzgerald's "down" years gives us great insight into his faltering life.
Walking Through the Fire: A Hospital Journey by Laurel Lee- Six months pregnant and with a nagging cough, Lee went numb when her doctor uttered the word, "tumor." After returning from the hospital after her latest bout with Hodgkin's, she discovers that her husband is going to leave her for the babysitter. She writes to heal. Her struggles with faith and her spiritual journey to recovery fill the central portion of the memoir. At some point she begins to share her writings with her doctor. He sends them on to an editor friend, the memoir is published and she becomes a best-seller. Pancreatic cancer eventually beats Lee, but the courageous fighter makes it to 58.
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer- This account of the deadly 1996 climbing season up Mt. Everest is mesmerizing. Krakauer who is both a writer and climber journals a poignant tale that was instantly disputed by others on the same climb. What I find too ironic is within 18 months after Into Thin Air is published the very people who disputed Krakauer's version of the '96 climbing season died on subsequent assents.
On the Road by Jack Kerouac- What can I say about this great American travel memoir that hasn't already been said. Written in 1951, this Beat Generation author rambles about his spontaneous road trips in mid-century America. Kerouac's character, Sal, is the quintessential sojourner.
Pick of the Day(13-5-0)...Yanks
Memorial Day and Iconic Americana
Happy Memorial Day!
On February 16, 1944, my grandfather was gunned down by sniper fire in the opening moments of the Battle of Anzio in southern Italy. Frankly, I only know the man through three black and white pictures, vague senility-stricken stories and a plain granite headstone in central Texas. Yet every Memorial Day, I pause and think of his ultimate sacrifice. Chills creep up my arms and legs until my body shudders.
Memorial Day began in the mid-1860's to commemorate the lives of so many dead Americans lost from our Civil War. Over time we have included all our dead from the armed forces throughout our brief history. These individual sacrifices were and are not insignificant. These dead souls are buried in the soil where we play baseball, picnic and hike freely. They fought and died so we can vote, move, work, play and travel at our own digression without governmental discord. They died so we could become Americans. Lest we forget.
Lest We Forget
They shall not grow older
As we are left to grow older.
Age shall not weary them,
Nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun,
and the rising of the next morn,
This Memorial Day
We shall remember them.
We shall remember them.
(I obviously despoiled the speech to fit my needs in this post, but I think it's appropriate.)
In tribute to a grandfather I never met, I listed some of the grandest American iconic events that make our country so great. These are ten amazing events that have almost become holidays in themselves. In no particular order, except in my head...here we go.
On February 16, 1944, my grandfather was gunned down by sniper fire in the opening moments of the Battle of Anzio in southern Italy. Frankly, I only know the man through three black and white pictures, vague senility-stricken stories and a plain granite headstone in central Texas. Yet every Memorial Day, I pause and think of his ultimate sacrifice. Chills creep up my arms and legs until my body shudders.
Memorial Day began in the mid-1860's to commemorate the lives of so many dead Americans lost from our Civil War. Over time we have included all our dead from the armed forces throughout our brief history. These individual sacrifices were and are not insignificant. These dead souls are buried in the soil where we play baseball, picnic and hike freely. They fought and died so we can vote, move, work, play and travel at our own digression without governmental discord. They died so we could become Americans. Lest we forget.
Lest We Forget
They shall not grow older
As we are left to grow older.
Age shall not weary them,
Nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun,
and the rising of the next morn,
This Memorial Day
We shall remember them.
We shall remember them.
(I obviously despoiled the speech to fit my needs in this post, but I think it's appropriate.)
In tribute to a grandfather I never met, I listed some of the grandest American iconic events that make our country so great. These are ten amazing events that have almost become holidays in themselves. In no particular order, except in my head...here we go.
- The Super Bowl
- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
- Mardi Gras
- The Kentucky Derby
- The Masters
- The Rose Bowl
- Indianapolis 500
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
- SXSW
- Sundance Film Festival
A way to pay tribute to our fallen heroes is enjoy the freedoms for which they died. My own, personal memory of my grandfather would have it no other way. If you want to get out there and be a part of Americana, contact us at TheTravelValet@gmail.com. Enjoy your Memorial Day.
Pick of the Day(12-5-0)...Mets
Friday, May 22, 2009
Business Class to London on British Airways
Whoa! Andrew from Travelzoo just e-mailed me a an excellent offer that will be published later today by British Airways.
2 for 1 Business Class to London!!! Including flights from Los Angeles through October!
This is an amazing offer. Basically you can pay coach fares for business class seats and service. Remember how I mention "value" as a determining factor in my travel itineraries. Well, this is value. The non-stop flight from Los Angeles to London is a physically taxing 10 hour journey. One would be surprised how much a few inches of room can add to comfort as well as fully reclining seats. Losing a vacation day to jet-lag or lethargy sucks. Take a hard look at this offer from Travelzoo. If you have any plans for a summer or fall trip, this is a wonderful option. But hurry, the offer comes off the table May 26. If you have any questions or need some help? Don't hesitate. E-mail me at Al@TheTravelValet.com or TheTravelValet@gmail.com.
Pick of the Day(12-4-0)...Toronto
2 for 1 Business Class to London!!! Including flights from Los Angeles through October!
This is an amazing offer. Basically you can pay coach fares for business class seats and service. Remember how I mention "value" as a determining factor in my travel itineraries. Well, this is value. The non-stop flight from Los Angeles to London is a physically taxing 10 hour journey. One would be surprised how much a few inches of room can add to comfort as well as fully reclining seats. Losing a vacation day to jet-lag or lethargy sucks. Take a hard look at this offer from Travelzoo. If you have any plans for a summer or fall trip, this is a wonderful option. But hurry, the offer comes off the table May 26. If you have any questions or need some help? Don't hesitate. E-mail me at Al@TheTravelValet.com or TheTravelValet@gmail.com.
Pick of the Day(12-4-0)...Toronto
Thursday, May 21, 2009
What's up with the Travel Channel?
The Travel Channel website is still an outstanding source for travel news and ideas, but what's up with the their television line-up? It's like watching the Food Network. It seems half of their television schedule is food based or at least food driven. Anthony Bourdain, Andrew Zimmern and Adam Richman are always on. What gives? If I wanted to watch some overzealous, bald dude eat bird-vomit soup, then I would tune into a food channel, some extreme network or that stupid reality network. I get Bizarre Foods is about traveling to all corners of the world and dining on different cultures, but the show is not travel themed. It's about grossing you out. Why would I tune into the Travel Channel and want to watch Zimmern almost puke trying to eat year-old stinky tofu? Jeez, I'm not twelve. It isn't cute. It's foul!
And if I thought Bizarre Foods ventured too far from the travel theme then what is the purpose of Man vs. Food? Seriously. This, I don't even understand. I guess the show is about some twenty-something life drop-out (maybe the producer's brother?) who travels around trying to either overeat or win some sort of pig-out contest. Other than these "pig-out" sites being in different U.S. cities, I can't even figure out why the Travel Channel airs this garbage.
Speaking of pigging out...I also see that the Travel Channel even airs a series of shows on the best places in the U.S. to pig-out. Please don't tell me someone is spending their precious leisure time and hard-earned travel dollar searching out these gorging joints. Whatever! Rant over.
Pick of the Day(11-4-0)...Phillies
And if I thought Bizarre Foods ventured too far from the travel theme then what is the purpose of Man vs. Food? Seriously. This, I don't even understand. I guess the show is about some twenty-something life drop-out (maybe the producer's brother?) who travels around trying to either overeat or win some sort of pig-out contest. Other than these "pig-out" sites being in different U.S. cities, I can't even figure out why the Travel Channel airs this garbage.
Speaking of pigging out...I also see that the Travel Channel even airs a series of shows on the best places in the U.S. to pig-out. Please don't tell me someone is spending their precious leisure time and hard-earned travel dollar searching out these gorging joints. Whatever! Rant over.
Pick of the Day(11-4-0)...Phillies
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Start Your Vacation Early
Last month I received an e-mail from one of my new clients and after receiving permission I thought I would share an excerpt of our discussion in hopes of providing some form of enlightenment...
Dear Al the Travel Valet,
I recently purchased one of your independent itineraries, the "London Like A Local". We are very excited and can't wait until our October departure. None of us have ever been overseas and want to prepare as much a possible before our trip. Do you have any suggestions as to how we can become more prepared so we can get the most out of our trip...?
Dear Excited,
Absolutely. You did well in choosing the London Itinerary. Knowing the language is a great confidence builder on your first overseas journey. The biggest mistakes travelers make are over packing and under preparing. Since you asked me specifically about preparation, I'll focus my answer on that. There are several ways to familiarize yourself with London. Obviously, studying maps and transit options is imperative, but beyond that I would try a less scholastic and more entertaining approach.
There are several A-List movies that use London and the surrounding environs as a backdrop. Here is a list: "Notting Hill", "Bridget Jones Diaries", "Love, Actually", the Harry Potter movies, "About a Boy", the Mr. Bean movies, "Shakespeare in Love", "Da Vinci Code" etc. There are many, many others.
If reading is your fancy, try: "Oliver Twist", the Sherlock Holmes stories, "Canterbury Tales", most of the movies above were adapted from bestsellers, as well as fabulous literature from great writers like Jane Austen, the Bronte sisters, Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, T.S. Eliot, A.A. Milne, and the greatest dramatist in the history of the world, William Shakespeare.
I included a four page, condensed history lesson of London's history with your itinerary as well as a map of the London Underground and a city map. These should give you basic understanding of London's layout and if you choose to follow the daily itinerary you purchased then you will be traveling like a local from the moment you land at Heathrow.
I hope this helps. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have any additional questions or if there is anything I can do to make this trip more amazing.
Sincerely,
AL
The Travel Valet
Pick of the Day(11-3-0)...Cavs ML
Dear Al the Travel Valet,
I recently purchased one of your independent itineraries, the "London Like A Local". We are very excited and can't wait until our October departure. None of us have ever been overseas and want to prepare as much a possible before our trip. Do you have any suggestions as to how we can become more prepared so we can get the most out of our trip...?
Dear Excited,
Absolutely. You did well in choosing the London Itinerary. Knowing the language is a great confidence builder on your first overseas journey. The biggest mistakes travelers make are over packing and under preparing. Since you asked me specifically about preparation, I'll focus my answer on that. There are several ways to familiarize yourself with London. Obviously, studying maps and transit options is imperative, but beyond that I would try a less scholastic and more entertaining approach.
There are several A-List movies that use London and the surrounding environs as a backdrop. Here is a list: "Notting Hill", "Bridget Jones Diaries", "Love, Actually", the Harry Potter movies, "About a Boy", the Mr. Bean movies, "Shakespeare in Love", "Da Vinci Code" etc. There are many, many others.
If reading is your fancy, try: "Oliver Twist", the Sherlock Holmes stories, "Canterbury Tales", most of the movies above were adapted from bestsellers, as well as fabulous literature from great writers like Jane Austen, the Bronte sisters, Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, T.S. Eliot, A.A. Milne, and the greatest dramatist in the history of the world, William Shakespeare.
I included a four page, condensed history lesson of London's history with your itinerary as well as a map of the London Underground and a city map. These should give you basic understanding of London's layout and if you choose to follow the daily itinerary you purchased then you will be traveling like a local from the moment you land at Heathrow.
I hope this helps. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have any additional questions or if there is anything I can do to make this trip more amazing.
Sincerely,
AL
The Travel Valet
This particular travel group consisted of two couples more interested in culture and a social adventure than history per se. I tried to focus my answer away from Elizabethan, Tudor and/or Royal laden agendas. I also veered away from family-oriented suggestions like "Through the Looking Glass", "Winnie-the-Pooh" or "Wallace and Gromit". The Travel Valet doesn't stop at just booking you tickets, accommodations and supplying you with an appropriate itinerary, but works to fill your dreamcatcher and accommodate your whims. Thanks for reading.
Pick of the Day(11-3-0)...Cavs ML
Monday, May 18, 2009
More Bang for the Family's Buck
Families traveling with children face many special challenges. I'm not just talking about the little tykes. I'm also talking about your teens. Entertaining, feeding and landing decent lodging accomodations that appeal to everyone is difficult at best. Here are a few tips on how to cope:
Watch the ads for freebies. Breakfasts, resort credits, kids-stay-free and other promotional savings can chop off hundreds from your vacation budget.
Book early. Last-minute deals are great for people who are flexible and travel off-season. To get what you want at a price you can afford, book early.
Check out the free attractions. In Washington D.C., entry into dozens of Smithsonian facilities is free (and pretty amazing) as well as the National Zoo. In London, most of the main museums are free, including the British Museum and the National Gallery.
Book a Package. With airfare, hotel and rental car bundled together, you can shave costs. The reason you ask? The sellers do not have to disclose which firm gave the discount thus able to keep advertised individual higher rates valid to general public.
Stay in Business Hotels or Locations on Weekends. Ever wonder how you booked that reservation at the Intercontinental on Hotwire for $100? Intercontinental sells its empty weekend rooms at business locations in bulk to discount websites like Hotwire. Sometimes the hotels are a little out of the way, maybe in a deserted downtown business district or near an executive airport. But these unused business hotels are great for cutting costs.
These are just a few of the tricks to save some money while tripping with the clan. Visit our website at http://www.thetravelvalet.com/ to find more ideas.
Pick of the Day(10-3-0)...Brewers
FLN Top 20 Part V- Last Installment
#4 Avoid Calling Toll-Free Hotel Numbers
You pay for convenience, period. Even though that toll-free number is screaming at you to call...don't do it. That number is most likely a call center in who-knows-where. And these reservationists have no authority to cut a deal. Instead, find the local phone number and give that a shot first. Ask the local decision maker about deals and discounts that you may not know about. Be nice. Make friends. You never know where it may lead.
A quick story...One of the worst reservations I have ever received was at a Four Season's resort. I went to the front desk of the Four Season's where I was staying and asked to reserve a room at the Four Season's at our next destination. The front desk girl directed me to an exquisite house phone in a the lobby. I picked up the phone and it rang. It was a direct line to a corporate reservationist. I booked a room in seconds. I was thrilled...until she quoted me her best deal. You would have thought I was booking the Lincoln Bedroom at the White House. It was almost twice what I expected. Don't call toll-free numbers!
#3 Learn the Local Language
The more you wear the local culture, the greater the experience will become. At the very least, learn the local greeting, please, and thank you. I'm sure you've heard this before, but people are proud and by making even small efforts to learn another's culture is endearing. Just try.
#2 Rule 240
Oh, the wonders of 2-4-0. Invoking Rule 240 is fun for some, but daunting for others. Even if you despise confrontrations, the right to demand a seat on the next available flight if your flight is cancelled is yours. Utilize it. A food coupon for an airport burger doesn't get it done. Just remember...
A. The airline may try the weather excuse. Don't let'em off so easy; find out for yourself if it's true.
B. Only the Legacy Airlines signed this agreement. Some upstarts might not honor Rule 240.
C. Be nice, but don't give in. Airlines do not want to pay, but it is yours. Seize it!
#1 Get a GPS
Again, this is the new trend in travel. Many won't leave home without it. I find it most effective when renting a car or using foreign subway systems (it is very easy to get turned around in a subway). My phone is equipped with one and it really helped circumvent a gnarly Los Angeles traffic jam last winter. We left the cruise terminal in San Pedro and found ourselves entangled in a famous downtown LA traffic jam. The GPS navigated us through several neighborhoods to an alternate highway out of the city. It was a lifesaver.
These are FLN's Top 20 Travel Tips. Hope you found them along with my commentary useful and entertaining. TTFN.
Pick of the Day(9-3-0)...Dodgers
You pay for convenience, period. Even though that toll-free number is screaming at you to call...don't do it. That number is most likely a call center in who-knows-where. And these reservationists have no authority to cut a deal. Instead, find the local phone number and give that a shot first. Ask the local decision maker about deals and discounts that you may not know about. Be nice. Make friends. You never know where it may lead.
A quick story...One of the worst reservations I have ever received was at a Four Season's resort. I went to the front desk of the Four Season's where I was staying and asked to reserve a room at the Four Season's at our next destination. The front desk girl directed me to an exquisite house phone in a the lobby. I picked up the phone and it rang. It was a direct line to a corporate reservationist. I booked a room in seconds. I was thrilled...until she quoted me her best deal. You would have thought I was booking the Lincoln Bedroom at the White House. It was almost twice what I expected. Don't call toll-free numbers!
#3 Learn the Local Language
The more you wear the local culture, the greater the experience will become. At the very least, learn the local greeting, please, and thank you. I'm sure you've heard this before, but people are proud and by making even small efforts to learn another's culture is endearing. Just try.
#2 Rule 240
Oh, the wonders of 2-4-0. Invoking Rule 240 is fun for some, but daunting for others. Even if you despise confrontrations, the right to demand a seat on the next available flight if your flight is cancelled is yours. Utilize it. A food coupon for an airport burger doesn't get it done. Just remember...
A. The airline may try the weather excuse. Don't let'em off so easy; find out for yourself if it's true.
B. Only the Legacy Airlines signed this agreement. Some upstarts might not honor Rule 240.
C. Be nice, but don't give in. Airlines do not want to pay, but it is yours. Seize it!
#1 Get a GPS
Again, this is the new trend in travel. Many won't leave home without it. I find it most effective when renting a car or using foreign subway systems (it is very easy to get turned around in a subway). My phone is equipped with one and it really helped circumvent a gnarly Los Angeles traffic jam last winter. We left the cruise terminal in San Pedro and found ourselves entangled in a famous downtown LA traffic jam. The GPS navigated us through several neighborhoods to an alternate highway out of the city. It was a lifesaver.
These are FLN's Top 20 Travel Tips. Hope you found them along with my commentary useful and entertaining. TTFN.
Pick of the Day(9-3-0)...Dodgers
Sunday, May 17, 2009
FLN Top 20 Part IV continued...
#9 Travel in the Shoulder or Off-Season
Are you kidding me? How could this be only the #9 travel tip? This is probably the most economical advice I could give and definitely the best way to avoid crowds. Why would you want to stand in line on vacation? And is there really a bad time to visit Barcelona? Seriously? I make it a practice to utilize this travel-saving technique before any other. Why skimp on your dreams when all you have to do is pick another month and then live your dreams? What's really amazing about this tip is usually you only have to move your dates back or forward less than a week to score huge savings. It does take a little effort, but that's why I'm here.
Honestly, there are drawbacks to off-season. My wife and I cruised through and around two hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico a few years ago. I have never seen a cruise ship so empty in my life; there were only about forty diners at dinner one evening. The ship even cancelled their nightly stage shows because the actors were falling off the stage during performances. I'm not kidding. Talk about a memorable trip....
There are pros and cons to way,but why not take a long look at your options before purchasing those premium priced rack rates.
#8 Mail your Luggage in Advance
This is becoming the new trend. Even though it sounds as if this tip is too bothersome, consider the predicament of lost luggage. The FAA reported that lost luggage reports have risen by 30%
since 2005 and a passenger has a 1/100th chance of losing their luggage on their next trip. Also, since the new carry-on laws and checked luggage charges have stymied the best of us, why worry about confiscations or outrageous charges. Just Fedex 'em to your destination, guaranteed and insured.
#7 Sanitize Your Hotel Room
Bed bugs are making a grand encore. As a matter of fact, incidents of bed bugs in American hotel rooms is above that of the WWII era. Jeez, talk about disgusting. Imagine the nastiest thing that the people before you could have done in your room before you arrived...It's worse that that. We've all seen local news media using blacklights in bedspreads in hotel rooms. This is not a joke. It is creepy. Bring some sani-wipes and some Lysol and clean the remote, door handles, phone, etc.... And that comforter, throw it in the corner or jam it in the closet and leave it there for the duration of your stay. Why take ill on vacation?
#6 Booking a Room in a Sold-out Hotel
It can be done. If you really wanted to stay in the Irish castle, but you can't get a reservation. I understand that sometimes part of the trip is the hotel or inn. I have found a way to do it and rapport is everything. Let me help you get in.
#5 Getting the Best Seat on the Flight
At the moment of book, ask about seats. Try and choose your seat immediately. If you can't choose at that time, try back later and often. The last thing you want to do is wait to ask. It never hurts to ask. Even if you are not one of their premiere travelers, maybe they don't have one on that particular flight. Ask, Ask, and ask again.
Pick of the Day(9-3-0)...Lakers ML
Are you kidding me? How could this be only the #9 travel tip? This is probably the most economical advice I could give and definitely the best way to avoid crowds. Why would you want to stand in line on vacation? And is there really a bad time to visit Barcelona? Seriously? I make it a practice to utilize this travel-saving technique before any other. Why skimp on your dreams when all you have to do is pick another month and then live your dreams? What's really amazing about this tip is usually you only have to move your dates back or forward less than a week to score huge savings. It does take a little effort, but that's why I'm here.
Honestly, there are drawbacks to off-season. My wife and I cruised through and around two hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico a few years ago. I have never seen a cruise ship so empty in my life; there were only about forty diners at dinner one evening. The ship even cancelled their nightly stage shows because the actors were falling off the stage during performances. I'm not kidding. Talk about a memorable trip....
There are pros and cons to way,but why not take a long look at your options before purchasing those premium priced rack rates.
#8 Mail your Luggage in Advance
This is becoming the new trend. Even though it sounds as if this tip is too bothersome, consider the predicament of lost luggage. The FAA reported that lost luggage reports have risen by 30%
since 2005 and a passenger has a 1/100th chance of losing their luggage on their next trip. Also, since the new carry-on laws and checked luggage charges have stymied the best of us, why worry about confiscations or outrageous charges. Just Fedex 'em to your destination, guaranteed and insured.
#7 Sanitize Your Hotel Room
Bed bugs are making a grand encore. As a matter of fact, incidents of bed bugs in American hotel rooms is above that of the WWII era. Jeez, talk about disgusting. Imagine the nastiest thing that the people before you could have done in your room before you arrived...It's worse that that. We've all seen local news media using blacklights in bedspreads in hotel rooms. This is not a joke. It is creepy. Bring some sani-wipes and some Lysol and clean the remote, door handles, phone, etc.... And that comforter, throw it in the corner or jam it in the closet and leave it there for the duration of your stay. Why take ill on vacation?
#6 Booking a Room in a Sold-out Hotel
It can be done. If you really wanted to stay in the Irish castle, but you can't get a reservation. I understand that sometimes part of the trip is the hotel or inn. I have found a way to do it and rapport is everything. Let me help you get in.
#5 Getting the Best Seat on the Flight
At the moment of book, ask about seats. Try and choose your seat immediately. If you can't choose at that time, try back later and often. The last thing you want to do is wait to ask. It never hurts to ask. Even if you are not one of their premiere travelers, maybe they don't have one on that particular flight. Ask, Ask, and ask again.
Pick of the Day(9-3-0)...Lakers ML
Saturday, May 16, 2009
FLN Top 20 Part III
#12 When to Buy Travel Insurance
You can read my blog on May 8th to get the lowdown on this hoedown. Very rarely do I feel the need for this added expense. Just take a gander at To Insure or Not To Insure, That is the Question and you'll understand.
#11 Join the Loyalty Clubs
Other than the incessant filtering of massive amounts of emails and junk mailings, joining all the loyalty programs makes considerable sense. What I believe most valuable are the last minute deals many airlines or cruise lines offer their loyalty club members. I have booked and taken many last minute "value" trips only because the deal was too good to pass up. (I use the term "value" quite often. It has become the essence of my itineraries. One day soon I'll write a blog on what "value " means to me in travel terminology).
Another good reason to join a loyalty program is avoiding lines. Much like having a "Fast Pass" at Disneyworld, a decent loyalty club perk is avoiding annoying, time consuming lines. Have you ever stood in line at the Port of Miami in sweltering August humidity with three awkward pieces of luggage dangling from your limbs praying that the line stops in the shade so you can stand in a temperature under 100 degrees? Obviously, I have. That very day I signed up for that cruise line's loyalty program. Now I go straight through with the guests who stay in the pricey Royal Suites, yet I only pay budget fares.
#10 Swap Your Home
This may not be for you, but the Fine Living Network thinks swapping your home may be an excellent way to reduce one of the most expensive aspects of travel, lodging. While I have never participated in this sort of adventure, there may be some benefit, I guess, from swapping homes in rare situations. I just can't think of one. No way would I want to stress about my personal (or my wife's) belongings while I am trying to vacation from...stress. I'm all about renting someone else's apartment or vacation home to cut costs, but trading mine is another story. I don't think it is for me.
We will continue on the next installment. Come see our new digs at www.thetravelvalet.com.
Pick of the Day(8-3-0)...Phillies
You can read my blog on May 8th to get the lowdown on this hoedown. Very rarely do I feel the need for this added expense. Just take a gander at To Insure or Not To Insure, That is the Question and you'll understand.
#11 Join the Loyalty Clubs
Other than the incessant filtering of massive amounts of emails and junk mailings, joining all the loyalty programs makes considerable sense. What I believe most valuable are the last minute deals many airlines or cruise lines offer their loyalty club members. I have booked and taken many last minute "value" trips only because the deal was too good to pass up. (I use the term "value" quite often. It has become the essence of my itineraries. One day soon I'll write a blog on what "value " means to me in travel terminology).
Another good reason to join a loyalty program is avoiding lines. Much like having a "Fast Pass" at Disneyworld, a decent loyalty club perk is avoiding annoying, time consuming lines. Have you ever stood in line at the Port of Miami in sweltering August humidity with three awkward pieces of luggage dangling from your limbs praying that the line stops in the shade so you can stand in a temperature under 100 degrees? Obviously, I have. That very day I signed up for that cruise line's loyalty program. Now I go straight through with the guests who stay in the pricey Royal Suites, yet I only pay budget fares.
#10 Swap Your Home
This may not be for you, but the Fine Living Network thinks swapping your home may be an excellent way to reduce one of the most expensive aspects of travel, lodging. While I have never participated in this sort of adventure, there may be some benefit, I guess, from swapping homes in rare situations. I just can't think of one. No way would I want to stress about my personal (or my wife's) belongings while I am trying to vacation from...stress. I'm all about renting someone else's apartment or vacation home to cut costs, but trading mine is another story. I don't think it is for me.
We will continue on the next installment. Come see our new digs at www.thetravelvalet.com.
Pick of the Day(8-3-0)...Phillies
Friday, May 15, 2009
Pardon the Interruption
Al, the Travel Valet, will be away for a few days. We are building a fabulous website to present a better product. Please check back soon. I think you'll be impressed. Ciao for now.
Pick of the Day(7-3-0)...Detroit
Pick of the Day(7-3-0)...Detroit
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
FLN's Top 20 Part II
#16 Prepare for a Travel Crisis
While 95% of all trips go off without a hitch, go ahead and prepare for a crisis. Whether it be a theft, bad health, or even an emergency back home be prepared to get out of any entanglement. This additional piece of mind will go along way in contributing to a successful trip.
A few tips you should always follow...
1. Always bring your passport and an alternate form of picture identification.
2. Have an alternate form of payment available
3. Make 2 copies of everything front and back, your travel documents, tickets, itineraries, credit card, etc. Give one copy to someone back home you trust and and pack the other in your luggage. Next, scan everything again and email it to yourself. Now you have access to the documents in perpetuity from an Internet cafe, your hotel or consulate.
4. Don't forget to notify your credit card company or bank that you will be using the card abroad.
5. Make an Emergency Contact List of every conceivable address, phone number, acct#, expiration date, etc. you may need. Place this list in your luggage and email it to yourself.
#15 Don't Buy Too Much Car Insurance
This is a very easy mistake for even experienced travelers. You are standing at the counter and all of the sudden a fear overwhelms your better judgement and your allow the car rental salesperson coax you into maxxing the insurance. Its an easier sell than flowers on Mother's Day. Go ahead and make the annoying 20 minute call to your insurance provider; it could save you $20-30 per day. There is also a decent chance your credit card company insures you. Make that call as well, what could it hurt.
#14 Fine Dining For Less
If you crave that fine dining experience, but don't want to pay $500 to $1000 per person then here is a little secret...go for lunch. You can get the same table, the same service with the same view for a fraction of the bill. Many fine dining restaurants offer a reasonable afternoon prefix meal. So, if Gordon Ramsey in London is on your wish list, but his prices don't fit your budget, try lunch.
#13 Tag your Luggage
Seriously, if you haven't noticed, Samsonite made more than one black rolly-bag. Nothing can be more annoying than watching your bag a half mile down the carousel being accosted by one insolent traveler after another on its way to you. I always feel as if my luggage needs a hug after I rescue it from all those groping mitts. Make your luggage discriminately yours with tags, ribbons, and bumper stickers so you'll stop touching mine. Just kidding, sorta.
Also, only put your name and phone number on the outside of your luggage. I don't know if thieves really stalk baggage tags to see who is leaving town, but why take that chance. Your emergency contact info should already be inside.
Pick of the Day(6-3-0)...Cleveland
While 95% of all trips go off without a hitch, go ahead and prepare for a crisis. Whether it be a theft, bad health, or even an emergency back home be prepared to get out of any entanglement. This additional piece of mind will go along way in contributing to a successful trip.
A few tips you should always follow...
1. Always bring your passport and an alternate form of picture identification.
2. Have an alternate form of payment available
3. Make 2 copies of everything front and back, your travel documents, tickets, itineraries, credit card, etc. Give one copy to someone back home you trust and and pack the other in your luggage. Next, scan everything again and email it to yourself. Now you have access to the documents in perpetuity from an Internet cafe, your hotel or consulate.
4. Don't forget to notify your credit card company or bank that you will be using the card abroad.
5. Make an Emergency Contact List of every conceivable address, phone number, acct#, expiration date, etc. you may need. Place this list in your luggage and email it to yourself.
#15 Don't Buy Too Much Car Insurance
This is a very easy mistake for even experienced travelers. You are standing at the counter and all of the sudden a fear overwhelms your better judgement and your allow the car rental salesperson coax you into maxxing the insurance. Its an easier sell than flowers on Mother's Day. Go ahead and make the annoying 20 minute call to your insurance provider; it could save you $20-30 per day. There is also a decent chance your credit card company insures you. Make that call as well, what could it hurt.
#14 Fine Dining For Less
If you crave that fine dining experience, but don't want to pay $500 to $1000 per person then here is a little secret...go for lunch. You can get the same table, the same service with the same view for a fraction of the bill. Many fine dining restaurants offer a reasonable afternoon prefix meal. So, if Gordon Ramsey in London is on your wish list, but his prices don't fit your budget, try lunch.
#13 Tag your Luggage
Seriously, if you haven't noticed, Samsonite made more than one black rolly-bag. Nothing can be more annoying than watching your bag a half mile down the carousel being accosted by one insolent traveler after another on its way to you. I always feel as if my luggage needs a hug after I rescue it from all those groping mitts. Make your luggage discriminately yours with tags, ribbons, and bumper stickers so you'll stop touching mine. Just kidding, sorta.
Also, only put your name and phone number on the outside of your luggage. I don't know if thieves really stalk baggage tags to see who is leaving town, but why take that chance. Your emergency contact info should already be inside.
Pick of the Day(6-3-0)...Cleveland
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Fine Living Network's Top 20
Even when this rooster isn't flapping his feathers abroad, I enjoy becoming a virtual traveler on the flat screen. Recently, I watched an interesting travel tips program on the Fine Living Network and thought I would share it with you. The program titled, "Top 20 Travel Tips" gives me a forum to comment on many different pertinent and handy travel tips. I decided to tackle this project in five digestible parts starting with their twentieth pick.
*Disclaimer* These are my comments on their top twenty travel tips.
#20 Be Wary of Travel Brochures
This seems obvious to me, but I can imagine the letdown one would feel when arriving at a "stroll along the beach" hideaway bungalow that required a connecting bus ticket to reach the ocean. It happened to me.
One time I rented the top floor of a beach house for a weekend family retreat. I found this beautiful, timbered beach house on the Internet. I perused the web photos, did a Mapquest of the location, felt comfortable in my decision, and sent off the deposit. When we arrived, the house was marvelous, more amazing than photos could capture. That is...until I walked out back onto the picturesque landing facing the ocean. The house was perched on a cliff some 60 feet above the beach. The only way down was a steep, rickety, wooden staircase that reminded me of a treehouse ladder. We only ventured down once to the water that weekend and I think my chicken legs are still sore from the climb back up.
Seriously, utilize web tools like TripAdvisor or Virtual Tourist to get an alternate point-of-view before committing to a deposit.
#19 Don't Pack What You Can Buy
When it comes to beach towels, snorkel gear or sand toys, I couldn't agree more. If you can buy or rent 'em then don't lug them. Even if you have to buy costly swim fins for one 3 hour snorkel excursion, do it. It beats hauling those same swim fins the other 237 hours of your trip. After your finished with the fins, give them to local children. It will make your trip more rewarding. Leave the world better than how you encountered it.
On the other hand, some people don't pack a toothbrush, toothpaste or deodorant. Just buy it when you get there. I'm not a big fan of this idea. I'm not saying buy the Costco-size shampoo with pump action and try to pack it. Buy the trail size of your favorite brand and use it sparingly. If it runs out, then find a pharmacy. I know I'll enjoy myself more if I feel clean. I'm not a huge fan of stinking arm pits and breathe; the French don't have it all right.
#18 Book a Vacation Rental for Family Trips
I agree with this tip 100%. When traveling with multi-generational family members it is practically impossible to oblige every one's needs and stay within a reasonable lodging budget at a resort or hotel, a vacation rental is an outstanding alternative. Also, the pace at which each generation of traveler explorers is different. It is very hard to get grandpa and grandma to keep up with the grandchildren on consecutive days, and it is very hard to get the grandchildren to slow down. It is much easier to leave slower travelers behind in a nice vacation rental than cooped up in a hotel room with only four walls looking back at you and twelve channels on the tube.
#17 Take Extra Items in Your Carry-On Bag
If you have to check baggage, and it's getting more and more difficult not to, then adding additional essentials to your carry-on makes sense. Medication is a no-brainer, but be wary of consolidating your prescription medication. If a security agent decides to check your bags and your meds are not in the original containers, they might be confiscated or worse. An extra pair of underwear may sound silly, but I've been there. Three days in the same skivvies you can make an interesting (French) travel companion. And don't forget the 3-1-1 Rule-No more than 3 ounces of liquid or gel of any one container stored in a 1 quart sealable bag and only 1 bag per person.
Also, since you are checking bags don't forget to put a copy of your itinerary in every piece of checked luggage as well as your contact information. This may increase your chances of seeing your luggage again. Note: A Robb Report survey in June 2006 claims that 30% more luggage is lost daily worldwide than pre-9/11. Good luck.
I will continue the countdown in the next post.
Pick of the Day (5-3-0)...Lakers
*Disclaimer* These are my comments on their top twenty travel tips.
#20 Be Wary of Travel Brochures
This seems obvious to me, but I can imagine the letdown one would feel when arriving at a "stroll along the beach" hideaway bungalow that required a connecting bus ticket to reach the ocean. It happened to me.
One time I rented the top floor of a beach house for a weekend family retreat. I found this beautiful, timbered beach house on the Internet. I perused the web photos, did a Mapquest of the location, felt comfortable in my decision, and sent off the deposit. When we arrived, the house was marvelous, more amazing than photos could capture. That is...until I walked out back onto the picturesque landing facing the ocean. The house was perched on a cliff some 60 feet above the beach. The only way down was a steep, rickety, wooden staircase that reminded me of a treehouse ladder. We only ventured down once to the water that weekend and I think my chicken legs are still sore from the climb back up.
Seriously, utilize web tools like TripAdvisor or Virtual Tourist to get an alternate point-of-view before committing to a deposit.
#19 Don't Pack What You Can Buy
When it comes to beach towels, snorkel gear or sand toys, I couldn't agree more. If you can buy or rent 'em then don't lug them. Even if you have to buy costly swim fins for one 3 hour snorkel excursion, do it. It beats hauling those same swim fins the other 237 hours of your trip. After your finished with the fins, give them to local children. It will make your trip more rewarding. Leave the world better than how you encountered it.
On the other hand, some people don't pack a toothbrush, toothpaste or deodorant. Just buy it when you get there. I'm not a big fan of this idea. I'm not saying buy the Costco-size shampoo with pump action and try to pack it. Buy the trail size of your favorite brand and use it sparingly. If it runs out, then find a pharmacy. I know I'll enjoy myself more if I feel clean. I'm not a huge fan of stinking arm pits and breathe; the French don't have it all right.
#18 Book a Vacation Rental for Family Trips
I agree with this tip 100%. When traveling with multi-generational family members it is practically impossible to oblige every one's needs and stay within a reasonable lodging budget at a resort or hotel, a vacation rental is an outstanding alternative. Also, the pace at which each generation of traveler explorers is different. It is very hard to get grandpa and grandma to keep up with the grandchildren on consecutive days, and it is very hard to get the grandchildren to slow down. It is much easier to leave slower travelers behind in a nice vacation rental than cooped up in a hotel room with only four walls looking back at you and twelve channels on the tube.
#17 Take Extra Items in Your Carry-On Bag
If you have to check baggage, and it's getting more and more difficult not to, then adding additional essentials to your carry-on makes sense. Medication is a no-brainer, but be wary of consolidating your prescription medication. If a security agent decides to check your bags and your meds are not in the original containers, they might be confiscated or worse. An extra pair of underwear may sound silly, but I've been there. Three days in the same skivvies you can make an interesting (French) travel companion. And don't forget the 3-1-1 Rule-No more than 3 ounces of liquid or gel of any one container stored in a 1 quart sealable bag and only 1 bag per person.
Also, since you are checking bags don't forget to put a copy of your itinerary in every piece of checked luggage as well as your contact information. This may increase your chances of seeing your luggage again. Note: A Robb Report survey in June 2006 claims that 30% more luggage is lost daily worldwide than pre-9/11. Good luck.
I will continue the countdown in the next post.
Pick of the Day (5-3-0)...Lakers
Monday, May 11, 2009
Debunking a Travel Myth
Every airline flight attendant makes more or less the same announcement, insisting for the safety of the flight you must turn off your cell phone, iPhone, Blackberry, Gameboys, etc... because they may interfere with the plane's navigational systems. Some flight attendants will even claim the policy as an FAA edict. Is any of this true?
Of course, this is nonsense. The FAA has attempted practically everything in the last twenty-five years to disrupt an aircraft's avionics with a notebook computer, hand-held PDAs, Blackberries, you name it. What have they determined? Nothing. You can't knock a plane out of the sky by sending an email. The FAA's policy is to let each individual airline dictate their own. So the next time someone tries to sell you this wheelbarrow full of fertilizer you are in the know.
One last thing, even though the flight attendant may be spraying poo in your face, you need to oblige. Since 9/11, Ignoring instruction by a flight attendant is now an arrestable offense.
Pick of the Day(5-2-0)...Arizona
Of course, this is nonsense. The FAA has attempted practically everything in the last twenty-five years to disrupt an aircraft's avionics with a notebook computer, hand-held PDAs, Blackberries, you name it. What have they determined? Nothing. You can't knock a plane out of the sky by sending an email. The FAA's policy is to let each individual airline dictate their own. So the next time someone tries to sell you this wheelbarrow full of fertilizer you are in the know.
One last thing, even though the flight attendant may be spraying poo in your face, you need to oblige. Since 9/11, Ignoring instruction by a flight attendant is now an arrestable offense.
Pick of the Day(5-2-0)...Arizona
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers and mothers-to-be! In reverence to this hallowed day, I thought it would be appropriate tell a short story about familial bonding.
...the first afternoon with our daughter, Mckenna, aboard the floating shopping mall was uneventful until she needed to go potty. Without getting technical, toilets on ships operate on a wicked suction system and if you're seated on the toilet and flush...well, you are in for a surprise. A surprise to an adult is first-rate horror to a four year old girl. Without thinking, we allowed Mckenna to experience this horror alone. She flushed, the toilet sucked, she screamed. The sound was blood curdling.
"Help!!" and "Something grabbed my bottom!" were the only words I understood. We barged headlong into the tiny head to rescue her. She was standing in the shower with her pants around her ankles trembling. Mckenna was convinced a monster growled and then tugged her into the little opening at the bottom of the bowl. Tears streaked her cheeks and the whimpering continued for hours.
Mckenna avoided the potty for two days opting for some sort of starvation technique to ward off the beast in the potty. Eventually, after hellacious prodding by a worried mother she succumbed to a specific routine only in public lavatories while holding hands and keeping a constant eye between her legs on the hole on the bottom of the bowl. Even when others went to the head, Mckenna cowered in the corner.
Several years later, my wife asked me to walk Mckenna to the restroom in the Denver airport. I said no problem, but when I left her at the entrance to the ladies restroom, she hesiated and frowned.
"What's wrong, sugar?" I asked.
"Daddy, is this a good bathroom?" She gulped and looked at me half-frightened. I was confused.
"I don't understand sweetie." I crouched to her. "What do you mean?"
"Is it a regular potty or one of the those sucky kinds?" She was truly concerned. I held back the chuckle and assured her that only sucky potties were on boats and planes.
"That is why we were going now so we won't have to go a plane." I hunged her and she ventured on cautiously.
Mckenna is twelve years old now, a cruising and flying veteran, and at an age when daughters and fathers no longer talk about the restroom. I'm sure she still considers the toilet before she sits...I don't blame her.
This is an excerpt from my book, The Perils of Travel. Hope you enjoyed it.
Pick of the Day(4-2-0)...Detroit
...the first afternoon with our daughter, Mckenna, aboard the floating shopping mall was uneventful until she needed to go potty. Without getting technical, toilets on ships operate on a wicked suction system and if you're seated on the toilet and flush...well, you are in for a surprise. A surprise to an adult is first-rate horror to a four year old girl. Without thinking, we allowed Mckenna to experience this horror alone. She flushed, the toilet sucked, she screamed. The sound was blood curdling.
"Help!!" and "Something grabbed my bottom!" were the only words I understood. We barged headlong into the tiny head to rescue her. She was standing in the shower with her pants around her ankles trembling. Mckenna was convinced a monster growled and then tugged her into the little opening at the bottom of the bowl. Tears streaked her cheeks and the whimpering continued for hours.
Mckenna avoided the potty for two days opting for some sort of starvation technique to ward off the beast in the potty. Eventually, after hellacious prodding by a worried mother she succumbed to a specific routine only in public lavatories while holding hands and keeping a constant eye between her legs on the hole on the bottom of the bowl. Even when others went to the head, Mckenna cowered in the corner.
Several years later, my wife asked me to walk Mckenna to the restroom in the Denver airport. I said no problem, but when I left her at the entrance to the ladies restroom, she hesiated and frowned.
"What's wrong, sugar?" I asked.
"Daddy, is this a good bathroom?" She gulped and looked at me half-frightened. I was confused.
"I don't understand sweetie." I crouched to her. "What do you mean?"
"Is it a regular potty or one of the those sucky kinds?" She was truly concerned. I held back the chuckle and assured her that only sucky potties were on boats and planes.
"That is why we were going now so we won't have to go a plane." I hunged her and she ventured on cautiously.
Mckenna is twelve years old now, a cruising and flying veteran, and at an age when daughters and fathers no longer talk about the restroom. I'm sure she still considers the toilet before she sits...I don't blame her.
This is an excerpt from my book, The Perils of Travel. Hope you enjoyed it.
Pick of the Day(4-2-0)...Detroit
Friday, May 8, 2009
To Insure or Not to Insure, That is the Question
Let me start by admitting, I am not an advocate of travel insurance. Investing an extra 5 to 10 percent to my travel budget just to protect a deposit for a trip I have every intention of taking doesn't seem logical to me. Traveling stirs my soul. It keeps me grounded and sane in an insane world. Why would I want to pay extra for something, nothing, short of dying, would keep me from anyway?
We are not talking about health insurance; that is a whole different beast. I'm talking about insuring the cost of your trip in case you can't make the trip for some inexplicable reason. Well, I have found a few exceptions in which I would purchase insurance.
The Very Short List
1. You have booked a once-in-a-lifetime holiday cruise many months in advance. This safety investment may seem simple to you, but I still struggle with letting go of the loot.
2. Illness; if someone in the traveling party has been recently battling illness or recuperating from a major surgery, then the idea of foregoing the trip for health reasons is reasonable.
3. If the trip includes extended family surrounded by an event such as a wedding, reunion or the Super Bowl then insuring the cost might make sense.
That's about it. Most everything else can and should be handled by a different means. Insurance is intended for for catastrophes not inconveniences. How do you think Snoopy fuels the Met Life blimp? I've said my peace.
Pick of the Day(4-1-0)...Cardinals/Reds U9.5
We are not talking about health insurance; that is a whole different beast. I'm talking about insuring the cost of your trip in case you can't make the trip for some inexplicable reason. Well, I have found a few exceptions in which I would purchase insurance.
The Very Short List
1. You have booked a once-in-a-lifetime holiday cruise many months in advance. This safety investment may seem simple to you, but I still struggle with letting go of the loot.
2. Illness; if someone in the traveling party has been recently battling illness or recuperating from a major surgery, then the idea of foregoing the trip for health reasons is reasonable.
3. If the trip includes extended family surrounded by an event such as a wedding, reunion or the Super Bowl then insuring the cost might make sense.
That's about it. Most everything else can and should be handled by a different means. Insurance is intended for for catastrophes not inconveniences. How do you think Snoopy fuels the Met Life blimp? I've said my peace.
Pick of the Day(4-1-0)...Cardinals/Reds U9.5
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Independent Travel for First-Timers
Want to travel abroad but nervous? Ready to check-off sights from your "bucket list"? Want to explore your personal history?
Why not get your feet wet in London?
Many countries share history with this cosmopolitan Goliath. India, Canada, South Africa, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, many countries in Africa and, of course, the United States have a bond through many moments in times past with the British capital. Only a few generations removed from being the world's greatest superpower, this tiny island off the coast of Europe is a fantastic starting point to your journey abroad.
Don't get me wrong...the United Kingdom is still a foreign country to all but the Welsh, Scots, and Brits; even the most veteran globe trekkers struggle with some of London's complexities. London's public transit is daunting. Its congestion is troublesome and its weather can pose many obstacles to the unprepared. However, London is still an English speaking ancestral home to our forefathers. This commonality alone breeds confidence turning your first sojourn into a most rewarding first trip abroad.
I have an amazingly affordable first-class Southern England (London) itinerary for a couple or small family if the travel bug has bitten; don't be afraid to scratch. Send an Email to thetravelvalet@gmail.com and I'll happily share or personalize a specific adventure vacation for you.
Pick of the Day (3-1-0)...Toronto
Why not get your feet wet in London?
Many countries share history with this cosmopolitan Goliath. India, Canada, South Africa, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, many countries in Africa and, of course, the United States have a bond through many moments in times past with the British capital. Only a few generations removed from being the world's greatest superpower, this tiny island off the coast of Europe is a fantastic starting point to your journey abroad.
Don't get me wrong...the United Kingdom is still a foreign country to all but the Welsh, Scots, and Brits; even the most veteran globe trekkers struggle with some of London's complexities. London's public transit is daunting. Its congestion is troublesome and its weather can pose many obstacles to the unprepared. However, London is still an English speaking ancestral home to our forefathers. This commonality alone breeds confidence turning your first sojourn into a most rewarding first trip abroad.
I have an amazingly affordable first-class Southern England (London) itinerary for a couple or small family if the travel bug has bitten; don't be afraid to scratch. Send an Email to thetravelvalet@gmail.com and I'll happily share or personalize a specific adventure vacation for you.
Pick of the Day (3-1-0)...Toronto
Monday, May 4, 2009
Oh, the Places I've Seen
I thought it was about time to introduce myself. My name is Al and I'm the Travel Valet. What is a travel valet you ask? Well, I'm the guy who handles the details. In Las Vegas, they are called hosts and work for a casino; hosts are loyal to the casino of which they are employed and seek out those who gamble and spend large amounts of money. In the world of business, valets are called personal assistants. They are salaried employees and are loyal to the person who signs their paycheck. I'm neither of these. My livelihood is generated from outside sources not directly associated with the travel industry. Writing and travel are my passions and this avenue fuels both. My only goal is to seek out like-minded individuals or families to share travel secrets, cost saving techniques and fabulous stories.
I have been traveling since my earliest memories. My father was a photographer for National Geographic back in the 70's and still occasionally freelances to this day. Hitching along carrying one of his many camera bags, I witnessed, tasted and smelled the world from a point of view many never have the opportunity to experience. As my dad slowed so did my time on the road and then somehow, life got in the way. College, career, marriage and a child appeared in militaristic uniformed succession. My life became someone else's. Others called the shots; I merely followed orders. And then, other than the annual family pilgrimage to Disney World, my travelling ceased. I didn't realize how much the foundation of who I had become, my character, relied on these early experiences. My life became...ordinary.
Sometime during the monotony, I began visiting the local Barnes & Noble while having my afternoon Starbuck's before picking up my family for dinner to shuffle of to The Cheesecake Factory in our family truckster for our typical Tuesday night out. These visits to the bookstore opened my eyes to the unforeseen beauty of the written word. The words came alive like the travel experiences of my youth. I felt the energy and it tugged on me. My soul needed to get back out there. I eventually made that commitment. I made travel and writing a priority and forced it into my family's life. I believe we will all benefit from it.
This blog will be about everything travel from cost saving ideas, to my favorites, to top fives of anything, to great itineraries for all occassions and travel preferences and hopefully some amazing stories to tug at your travel soul.
By-the-way, for whatever reason, I'm quite good at picking winners. I'll share that too. Who knows, it could pay for your next adventure.
Picks of the Day(2-0-0)...Lakers first half -4, Brewers
I have been traveling since my earliest memories. My father was a photographer for National Geographic back in the 70's and still occasionally freelances to this day. Hitching along carrying one of his many camera bags, I witnessed, tasted and smelled the world from a point of view many never have the opportunity to experience. As my dad slowed so did my time on the road and then somehow, life got in the way. College, career, marriage and a child appeared in militaristic uniformed succession. My life became someone else's. Others called the shots; I merely followed orders. And then, other than the annual family pilgrimage to Disney World, my travelling ceased. I didn't realize how much the foundation of who I had become, my character, relied on these early experiences. My life became...ordinary.
Sometime during the monotony, I began visiting the local Barnes & Noble while having my afternoon Starbuck's before picking up my family for dinner to shuffle of to The Cheesecake Factory in our family truckster for our typical Tuesday night out. These visits to the bookstore opened my eyes to the unforeseen beauty of the written word. The words came alive like the travel experiences of my youth. I felt the energy and it tugged on me. My soul needed to get back out there. I eventually made that commitment. I made travel and writing a priority and forced it into my family's life. I believe we will all benefit from it.
This blog will be about everything travel from cost saving ideas, to my favorites, to top fives of anything, to great itineraries for all occassions and travel preferences and hopefully some amazing stories to tug at your travel soul.
By-the-way, for whatever reason, I'm quite good at picking winners. I'll share that too. Who knows, it could pay for your next adventure.
Picks of the Day(2-0-0)...Lakers first half -4, Brewers
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Tragedy Dims the Glitter
The Las Vegas community was stunned Friday to find out Danny Gans, 52, passed away.
I was very reluctant to post this in fear I could not serve this great man justice. On stage, he was brilliant; and recognized as the Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year for eleven consecutive years. Off stage, he was greater. Danny contributed so much to the community and the children he dearly loved. He worked tirelessly to better the lives of the ill and less fortunate.
Danny touched the lives of millions through his comedy and service. I never knew him personally and I miss him already.
Please continue his legacy by making a donation to The Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation at http://www.nvccf.org/.
I was very reluctant to post this in fear I could not serve this great man justice. On stage, he was brilliant; and recognized as the Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year for eleven consecutive years. Off stage, he was greater. Danny contributed so much to the community and the children he dearly loved. He worked tirelessly to better the lives of the ill and less fortunate.
Danny touched the lives of millions through his comedy and service. I never knew him personally and I miss him already.
Please continue his legacy by making a donation to The Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation at http://www.nvccf.org/.
The "Current" Five Best in Las Vegas
Listing the five best of anything in Las Vegas is an extremely fluid proposition. Even in this economy, Las Vegas changes faster than the lastest diet fad. But since Al, the Travel Valet, wanted to get caught up in the phrenetic atomosphere that is Las Vegas Fight Night he ventured out to see where the bee's buzzed. This is what he found.
The Countdown starts...
5. The best night club is...XS inside the Encore. The line was two hours last night.
4. The best sportsbook to watch the big game...Red Rock in Summerlin.
3. The best place to get a tan...Rehab at the Hard Rock
2. The best restaurant to for celebs and killer Italian food...Cafe Martorano in the Rio.
1. The best poker room...Bellagio (still).
I guess Manny Pacquiao is pretty good.
Today's Top Pick (2-0-0)...Toronto Blue Jays
The Countdown starts...
5. The best night club is...XS inside the Encore. The line was two hours last night.
4. The best sportsbook to watch the big game...Red Rock in Summerlin.
3. The best place to get a tan...Rehab at the Hard Rock
2. The best restaurant to for celebs and killer Italian food...Cafe Martorano in the Rio.
1. The best poker room...Bellagio (still).
I guess Manny Pacquiao is pretty good.
Today's Top Pick (2-0-0)...Toronto Blue Jays
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Blanket of Roses
From a distance, the race is lovely, harmonious and balletic. Titans flex and relax contrasting prodigious muscles to music hearkened only by the contestants. Distant observers view a dance of dolphins at the ship's bow frolicking in the white capping crests of waves moving in unison with man and nature. Sheer poetry.
Amongst the beasts, the race is filthy, thunderous and violent. Elephantine grit and exaggerated masculinity shake the earth kicking turf skyward staining their pristine coats with battle dirt; the soot blinding the angry combatants. The earth trembles in awe. Gladiators bump, shove and trample for rail position abridging the finishing distance. Muscles and joints writhe in agony; oxygen dissipates in grime; and exhileratation succumbs to exhaustion.
Perseverance, determination and effort win the race. Win. Place. And Show. Only the champion survives to enter the winner's circle. Only one gets the blanket of roses.
I wrote this a few years ago prior to the Kentucky Derby attempting to have it submitted into their official program. It wasn't accepted for publishing, but that is not the reason for this post.
The "Run for the Roses" is contested today, probably the grandest two minutes in sports amid a backdrop of pagentry that surpasses the The Masters in golf. Many sports fans have The Masters on their personal "bucket list". These same people would be remiss to not include this spectacle of grandeur as well. It may be too late to saunter down to the paddock this year, but if you're interested in the 136th running at Churchill Downs drop me an email at TheTravelValet@gmail.com and I can piece together your perfect itinerary.
Today's Top Pick... Pioneer of the Nile to Show
Amongst the beasts, the race is filthy, thunderous and violent. Elephantine grit and exaggerated masculinity shake the earth kicking turf skyward staining their pristine coats with battle dirt; the soot blinding the angry combatants. The earth trembles in awe. Gladiators bump, shove and trample for rail position abridging the finishing distance. Muscles and joints writhe in agony; oxygen dissipates in grime; and exhileratation succumbs to exhaustion.
Perseverance, determination and effort win the race. Win. Place. And Show. Only the champion survives to enter the winner's circle. Only one gets the blanket of roses.
I wrote this a few years ago prior to the Kentucky Derby attempting to have it submitted into their official program. It wasn't accepted for publishing, but that is not the reason for this post.
The "Run for the Roses" is contested today, probably the grandest two minutes in sports amid a backdrop of pagentry that surpasses the The Masters in golf. Many sports fans have The Masters on their personal "bucket list". These same people would be remiss to not include this spectacle of grandeur as well. It may be too late to saunter down to the paddock this year, but if you're interested in the 136th running at Churchill Downs drop me an email at TheTravelValet@gmail.com and I can piece together your perfect itinerary.
Today's Top Pick... Pioneer of the Nile to Show
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