Not Another Guide

What would a 'best of' list be without a follow up list of the 'worst of' ?

The worst of things going on in the world of travel right now, according to Arthur & Pauline Frommer of the Frommers Guides fame: 

Arthur Frommers musings:

1). Cruise lines turning into amusement parks....and then taking travelers to Islands that are completely fictional (or at least have been created by the cruise lines) and meant to replicate authentic cultural life.

2). Hassles of security lines at airports.  He urged all of us to go through the security lines as soon as we get our boarding passes rather than wait until 1/2 hour before. Also, to prepare for the security lines ahead of time.

3). Limited amount of vacation time for U.S. citizens.  He called it inhumane.  I agree.

4).  Huge rise in hotel fees, mostly hidden and tacked on at the end of the stay.  He urged everyone to get all fees in writing AT check in (things like parking fees and even 'tourist fees')

5). Corporate jets taking up airspace.

Pauline Frommer's musings:

1). Overwhelmed destinations.  Go places other people aren't!

2). Travel embargo on Cuba for U.S. citizens. 

3). Car rental rates have increased 40% - she urged you to use smaller, less corporate agencies found through www.breezenet.com

4). Visa fees into other countries way too expensive.

She didn't have time for a fifth.

BUT, I'd like to add one myself.

One of my ultimate pet peeves is when passengers stand right at the carousel when waiting for their luggage.  If everyone stood just 1 foot back, we'd all be able to see, and retrieve our luggage without having to push people out of the way.

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It's about this time where every travel website, and gift giving portal, and parent blogs etc. all start giving you advice on traveling during the holidays.

A quick  search of 'tips for holiday travel' and you'll be scrolling through pages of search engine results for days and, inevitably, they'll tell you the same things:

Plan ahead, shop around, arrive early, pack lightly, wear comfortable clothing and be patient etc.  Got it, and lets face it- that's just common sense for life and if we all did that ALL the time - we'd have very few problems.  Cause all that comes down too is; taking our time and being organized.

Puhleese!

Most of us aren't and it's precisely why the holiday season becomes stressful for so many.

I just read a post listing the 7 Mantras for a peaceful holiday travel and while I am all about peaceful mantras ( I am a yoga teacher after all - sort of comes with the job description) I am not entirely convinced it is realistic for the masses - (have you ever been stuck in an airport for an entire day?). 

So, while I suggest you keep the mantras in your back pocket for the perfect moment here are few of my own suggestions that might not have you levitating in the middle seat by the bathroom, but it could get you sipping cocktails next to new found friends.

*If you are traveling by car/rail/bus/plane honestly - this is the only common tip I am going to remind you of.  Try to leave or arrive earlier than expected.  This really is the time to expect the worst.

*Pack Food.  Your own, healthy food from home.  My suggestions: hummus/carrot sticks/celery sticks/nature bars/fruit (clementines are best...bananas are not.)/Yogurt (freeze beforehand to get through security), almonds and organic tea bags. 

*Pack your own blanket and an extra pair of socks.

*Load up your playlists - download free podcasts, including a few mediation sessions to listen to in transit.

*Bring Chocolate/candy/treats - individually wrapped for you (if you're inclined) and to gift it to unhappy strangers, pain the a** passengers, screaming children (either yours or someone else's) or best; overwhelmed and tired counter staff...you'll be sure to get a smile and probably a good seat and surprise people/children enough to stop them complaining or screaming.  Seriously.

*If you miss a flight or transport is delayed etc.  don't get frustrated it will only send you to the end of the line on standby.  You've got the chocolate/Candy/treats - use it!

*If you're on a long haul flight and you want to bring organic milk/juice or soy/rice/almond milk etc but you can't take it through security.  Bring it through frozen.  It's liquids that can't go through.  I started doing this a few years ago when I was traveling every month, and it worked.

*Remember - most airlines in the States are now charging a $20 baggage check fee for the first bag.  Budget for this so you're not surprised when you get to the airport.  

*Most airlines now have WiFi - check if it will be free or look out for companies who might be sponsoring free WiFi on a flight with a special code.  This is going to be a prime time for that kind of PR.  If they were smart (hell, we'd do it if we could afford it!)

*And really, be nice.  Actually, keep some perspective, and then be nice.  Everyone is trying to get somewhere, people will be tired, traffic will be heavy, systems will shut down.

And if none of the above make a difference - pay the money and get into a lounge, find the nearest bar and drink away the frustrations or.....you always have your mantras.

Happy Holidays.

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