That's the headline of an Associated Press (via USA Today) article Thursday afternoon. Members of the House of Representatives traded horror stories of fellow airline passengers talking loudly and inappropriately on their phones pre- and post-flight.

According to the article, "With that, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved by voice vote a bill that would make the current Federal Aviation Administration and Federal Communication Commission ban on cellphone use during flight permanent."

I say THANK GOODNESS.

Thoughts?

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The other day, I got sent a question from Mibell, an intrepid Window Seat reader at the end of her rope. Frustrated with overpacking every time she takes a vacation, she's desperately seeking an answer to the following question:

"How does one “pack lightly”? I know it should seem so simple, but I am just not capable of doing so. I have not traveled extensively (yet), so far have only been to the Philippines once, Mexico three times, and within California and Oregon. And every single time, I pack as if I’m moving and am prepared for anything in between a blizzard and a heat wave. If I’m traveling for a week, somehow I pack two weeks worth of clothes and many, many pairs of shoes (what if we go to the beach? I need flip-flops? What if I exercise? I need tennis shoes! What if we go out for a nice dinner? I need heels!) However, I have a new goal to go see at least one new country, city, or state per year, and I know that being unencumbered by so much stuff might make it a bit easier and more enjoyable. But at the same time, I don’t want to be unprepared – I’m a bit “Type-A” like that. Help!"

Well, Mibell: welcome to the club! I'm a persistent overpacker myself. Scratch that, I'm actually more of a recovering persistent overpacker, as every time I travel, I'm constantly trying to pick up tips and tricks for bringing less. Read on for a few ways to lighten the load.

* Get organized---SUPER organized: The old adage goes that you should lay everything you want to take out on your bed and then put half of it away. Well, I've tried it, but I somehow seem to keep sneaking stuff in afterwards. ("Oh wait, but I really need this shirt! I know I just put it back in the closet, but....") My plan these days---and don't laugh, I know it's a little dorky---is to write down everything I think I'll need ("green Gap skirt, new gold shoes"---honestly, be as detailed as you can) on one page, and then try and formulate outfits for each day of my vacation on the other. Yes, it's possibly a little too Type-A for most people, but it really helps you pare down and figure out what you'll need and what you won't.

* Stage a dress rehearsal: Once you know what you're taking, set aside an hour before you pack to try it all on. You'll weed out things that don't actually fit or go together, and you'll feel confident that yes, you actually are bringing enough stuff.

* Be really, really, really honest with yourself: Alright, the hotel has a gym, but are you actually going to go to it? I can't tell you how often I've dragged my sneakers across continents with the best of intentions, and then ended up never even removing them from my suitcase, because what? The treadmill? When I could be lying on a beach reading? Are you crazy?

* Get as much info as you can about the place you'll be going: Listen, there's no point bringing your winter jacket just in case it gets cold. Eliminate the just-in-cases and email a friend or acquaintance who lives in---or has been to---the place you're visiting. If you're going to be seeing people you know, inquire as to whether they've got a spare raincoat/pair of hiking boots/evening gown you could borrow should you need to. Knowing what you'll be doing on your vacation is 90% of the battle: then you don't have to pack for every eventuality.

* Bulk up on the plane: Alright, so you're visiting Minnesota in December---you probably do need that big puffy jacket. But don't pack it---wear it (or carry it) while you travel. Same goes for boots and big fluffy sweaters. Then you'll free up space for things you do need.

* Stick with old favorites: Don't be tempted to pack stuff you've never worn before---go with the oldies and goodies that you know will do the trick. Hey, if those black pants have never failed you before, they won't this time: no need to bring the newer "back-up" pair as well. (Plus, if your new stuff ends up not working out, you're just going to be tempted to go out during your trip and buy a replacement. And that means you'll have even more stuff to squish into your suitcase on the way home.)

* Bag it up: When I travel these days, I try and separate my clothes into piles---shirts, skirts, pants, etc---and then place each pile into a plastic bag. It not only helps me keep track of what I'm bringing (which means less likelihood of bringing too much) but it also helps me feel supremely organized, since I always know what's where.

* If in doubt, don't bring it: Seriously. Just don't. If there's even the tiniest glimmer of "but wait, will I really need it?", put the item back in the closet immediately. You should be 100% confident that everything you're bringing will be used or worn at least once during your trip. (Um, except for underwear, I guess. That's kind of a whole 'nother story.)

Hope that helps, Mibell! And if anyone else has their own how-to-pack-less tips, feel free to share them in the comments.

(Got a travel question of your own? Send it to holly@windowseat.travelocity.com and I'll answer on the blog.)

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Air travel: more expensive and more fees. We can't control the price of air travel, but we can help you avoid a few of those pesky airline fees. Almost every domestic airline now charges for a second-checked bag, and four of the big six airlines charge for the first. Moms and dads know that air travel with the kids often means traveling with lots of gear, and no one wants to waste their vacation dollars on services that were once free. Shipping services and UPS are gaining popularity among families with (literal) baggage, but even if the cost is nominal, it’s still going to cost you. Instead, get creative and use these five ways to get around the fees.

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo member raymond longaray

Stay loyal or travel with someone who is. We all know those frequent-flier miles are getting harder and harder to use, but did you know that those with elite status (for example, Silver Preferred and higher status on US Airways) are generally exempt from the checked-bag fees? That and being first to board (more room in the overhead!) are a few of the remaining perks of being an airline loyalist. One certain airlines, if one of your travel companions has elite status and they make the reservation for the whole family, everyone gets to check bags for free regardless of individual frequent-flier status.

Upgrade. If you can’t use miles for a free ticket in coach, you may be able to use them for a free upgrade to business or first class. Customers traveling in these cabins don’t have to pay for checked bags (or in-flight cocktails for that matter).

Jet set. International travelers – particularly outside of North America – are with few exceptions, still allowed two free checked bags.

Choose carefully. There are a few airlines that still allow at least some free checked baggage. American Airlines, Northwest Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways charge $15 for the first-checked bag and $25 for the second. AirTran, Delta, Continental, and JetBlue, Mexicana, Midwest and Virgin America charge for the second-checked bag, but still allow passengers to check one for free. Southwest allows two free checked bags.
Jet set. International travelers – particularly outside of North America – are with few exceptions, still allowed two free checked bags.

Stick it to the hotel. First it was gas cards, now it’s baggage reimbursements. Hotels early to get in on the trend of paying you back for checking your bags include several properties participating in the “Pack Your Bags for Amelia Island” promotion, giving guests a room credit of up to $80 when you stay three or more nights and show your checked-bag receipt before September 30. Addison on Amelia, Amelia Hotel at the Beach; Ash Street Inn; Amelia Island Williams House; The Fairbanks House; Hampton Inn & Suites, and Summer Beach Resorts are all participating. Loews Hotels reimburses guests up to $30 per room (enough to pay for the first-checked bag to take a round-trip flight) on their final bill with a bag receipt from the airline through September 1. Kimpton Hotels “We Got Your Bag” offer issues a room credit of up to $25 when guests show proof of the baggage charge through September 9.

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Green seems to be the new black.

It's a trend for some, and a staple for others. Regardless, everyone feels hip and fashionable when they're deemed green. Even Surya, a London nightclub that's gotten flack for supposedly opening its doors as a publicity stunt, struts its eco-friendly stuff for club-goers. Its most impressive feature: a dance floor that generates its own energy.

The floor, which has the phrase "Dance to Save the World" written across it, is made from quartz materials that rub together when people dance on it. When the dance floor is full, about 60 percent of the club’s energy can come from the floor.

Rock on.

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Issues, issues… sure they're important. But let’s talk about what really matters on The Window Seat: How well do the candidates travel? As this year's jam-packed media schedule proves, most campaign-trail maps point straight to the sky. Accordingly, both Barack Obama and John McCain have their own customized, American-manufactured Boeings to take them from baby-kissing stump stops to whirlwind meetings with foreign dignitaries.

But who has the better bird? Let’s take a look at each and see how they stack up.

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo member RoBoNC.

Barack Obama’s Plane
Model: Boeing 757
Nickname: O’Force One
Colors: Navy and white
Plane slogans: “Change We Can Believe In” on sides; the Obama “O” on the tail
First class: Obama and his staff (includes four lazy-boy chairs and a table)
Business class: Reserved for advisors
Coach class: Press and agents (supposedly has more legroom than an average configuration)
Section dividers: Mesh curtains
In-flight meal: Lynn Sweet, of the Chicago Sun Times, reports that fruit and cheese plates were given to reporters on a recent voyage, and dinner was a choice of beef medallions, baked tilapia, or eggplant parmesan
Amenities: Sweet also reports that an overnight kit included Neutrogena body lotion and lip moisturizer, Scope mouthwash, ear plugs, and a blindfold for sleeping

John McCain’s Plane
Model: Boeing 737-400
Nickname: The Straight Talk Express
Colors: Gold and blue
Plane slogans: “The Straight Talk Express” and “McCain” and “Reform, Prosperity and Peace” on sides; www.johnmccain.com on tail
First class: Seats 10, including a “captain’s chair” for McCain
"Interview" class: Designed for media interviews and includes two couches and two “captain’s chairs.” Look and feel is similar to the campaign bus
"Secret Service" class: Special area designed for security
Coach class: 66 seats for press and agents, includes power outlets
In-flight meal: Barbecue?? (Hey readers!: I couldn’t find any information on what’s being served on the McCain plane, so if any of you know of anything, please pass it along. --Rachel)
Technology: Fax machines, telephones, state-of-the-art lighting, and wiring for microphones
Amenities: Thick blankets, leather seating throughout

Sources: Reuters; Fox News; ABC News; Chicago Sun Times; The Washington Post

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Capacity cuts. Baggage fees. Price hikes. Fuel costs. More fees. Airline pleas. Are you lost yet? I, too, find the task of keeping up with the airline industry a grueling one. Whenever I fly, I safeguard my travels against added costs where I can: I always double check my carrier’s baggage fee policy; I make sure my carry-on conforms to the airline’s size restrictions; and I pack snacks, so I’m not tempted to purchase food while on board.

The overall sentiment toward the airline industry right now is one of negativity, but every airline offers an experience (good or bad) that’s slightly different than the next. From baggage fees to in-flight entertainment, get the scoop on what to expect before you fly.

*Note: Baggage fees may vary depending on when you purchased your ticket. See complete baggage policies for details on fees, carry-on policies and size restrictions.

American Airlines

Baggage Fees: $15 each way for first checked bag; $25 each way for the second checked bag. See complete baggage policy.
Snacks: A choice of sweet and salty individually-packaged snacks is available for purchase on flights that are two hours or longer. In addition, fresh light meals are offered on flights three hours or longer. (From $3-$10)
Entertainment: Music, movies and onboard reading material available.
Business Tools: On most aircraft, a power outlet is available at each seat in First and Business class, as well as selected rows in the Coach cabin. Worldwide satellite communications are available on American Airlines' Boeing 777 and Boeing 767 aircraft Coming Soon: The first aircraft installation of the Aircell® Internet broadband connectivity solution, Gogo, has been completed and will be available in the near future.

Continental Airlines

Baggage Fees: No fee for the first checked bag; $25 each way for the second checked bag. See complete baggage policy.
Snacks: In general, meals or snacks are served in First Class on flights over 1 1/2 hours and in Economy Class on flights over two hours that fall within standard mealtimes.
Entertainment: Feature films and music free when using your own headset. Video games also available on select flights.
Business Tools: ARINC Satellite Telephone and in-seat power ports available.

Delta Airlines

Baggage Fees: No fee for the first checked bag; $25 each way for the second checked bag. See complete baggage policy. Note: Passengers who purchased a ticket before April 9, 2008 may be eligible for a rebate.
Snacks: Purchase snacks from the EATS menu from $1-$10.
Entertainment: In-flight movie, TV, radio programs and onboard shopping available on select flights.
Business Tools: 110 Volt ports, USB ports and EmPower ports available in select classes on select flights.

Northwest Airlines

Baggage Fees: $15 for the first checked bag; $25 for the second checked bag. See complete baggage policy.
Snacks: Snack items, snack boxes, fresh fruit and cheese platters or vegetables platter along with sandwich and salad meals are available for purchase on board many flights. Prices range from $3-$10.
Entertainment: Movies, magazines and duty free shopping available.

United Airlines

Baggage Fees: $15 for the first checked bag; $25 for the second checked bag. See complete baggage policy.
Snacks: Fresh food options are available for $7 and snack boxes are available for $5 on select flights.
Entertainment: Feature films, TV programming, and XM audio programming is available free-of-charge, along with complimentary headsets.
Business Tools: Laptop power and satellite phone service is available on select flights.

US Airways

Baggage Fees: $15 for the first checked bag; $25 for the second checked bag. See complete baggage policy.
Snacks: You can buy items from the In-flight Café menu for $7 or snack boxes for $5 on select flights. After August 1, 2008, non-alcoholic beverages will cost $2 and alcoholic beverages will cost $7 (up from $5).
Entertainment: Select flights feature movies and television programming, travel trivia, magazines and audio programming. Headsets are $5. Note: US Airways plans to remove in-flight movie systems.
Business Tools: US Airways offers on-board telephones and laptop power ports on select flights.

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Posted in Air Travel, Airline Fees, Guides & Planning
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Niche marketing can be a tough nut to crack. How do you forge a connection with one very particular slice of the population, yet avoid alienating the rest? What happens when you push some of your product’s lesser-known, less popular virtues--especially when they seem at odds with its better-known qualities?

Such is the dilemma of South Carolina, whose Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department (SCPRT) recently participated in an Out Now ad campaign focusing on purportedly “gay” destinations, including Las Vegas, Boston, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. The campaign featured ads with the tagline “South Carolina is so gay” posted in London tube stations--and has pulled the SCPRT into an international imbroglio.

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo member RoBoNC.

After news of the campaign reached the rest of the state, Senator David Thomas condemned it, saying "South Carolinians will be irate when they learn their hard earned tax dollars are being spent to advertise our state as 'so gay.’” The SCPRT employee who approved the ad resigned, and Senator Thomas is calling for an audit of their advertising budget. The department is also refusing to pay the $5,000 fee they had initially agreed to for their participation in the campaign.

This isn’t the first time a gay-targeted marketing campaign has caused an uproar. Walt Disney World® fans have been divided over the park’s famed Gay Pride Day and pro-gay policies for years. And the opposite holds true for Coors, a target of boycotts by the gay community since the 1970s for its support of anti-gay policies--despite its recent spate of ads in gay publications.

According to Out Now CEO Ian Johnson, the SCPRT actually “chased [Out Now] to be included in the campaign late on.” And understandably so: The gay dollar is a powerful presence in the tourism industry, accounting for approximately 10% of U.S. leisure traveler spending in 2006. Gay men and lesbians also tend to travel more, stay longer, and spend more while they’re there.

Plus, despite its location in the Southern “Bible Belt,” South Carolina is arguably a great place for gay tourism. John Tanzella, executive director of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, affirms that "there are things for gay people to do there. It's a beautiful state and that appeals to everybody." Places like Charleston and Myrtle Beach also have thriving gay communities.

Nonetheless, the state doesn’t view itself as a “gay” destination (let alone, achem, a “so gay” one). What do you think--is it fair to represent a destination as “gay” if its gay-friendliness is perhaps questionable? What would you think as a gay or lesbian tourist, or, conversely, as a (gay or straight) South Carolina resident? Majority rule, or minority rights?

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A few months ago a friend came over to my desk and said, "I have a travel magazine for you and you'll never guess what's inside!"

"What? What?!" I said, getting into the spirit, wondering if there was an article about a friend of ours, a piece about some groundbreaking new airplane, or a review of a hot new restaurant in the city.

"A reader's choice award!" He started laughing and I had to snicker at myself for not hearing his sarcasm a mile away. It's no big secret that travel magazines love quizzes, reader's choice awards, gold lists, and best of rankings, and as an ex-publishing insider I know this means one thing and one thing alone: these tactics sell magazines.

Photo courtesy of Holly Burns.

Like most people, I can't resist a best of list and so this week when my iGoogle travel news ticker fed me the headline T + L's World's Best Cities I was all but powerless to click on it. This is the 13th year of Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards and the results are chosen by you, and you, and, well, anyone who bothers to fill out the poll.

This year, my beloved San Francisco is hovering around the #10 slot yet again, while Bangkok took the top honors, making me feel a little smug about the ticket to Thailand I currently have in my possession. But the World's Best Awards don't just rank cities. They also rate hotels, islands, airlines, cruises, car rental companies, and tour operators.

I missed the poll when it went around, but I had to wonder, how would I judge certain categories? Certainly the Peninsula in Hong Kong is an opulent, staid hotel, but how do you compare it to Singita Game Reserves in South Africa? I love New York City for its excitement, self-possessed attitude, and sheer size, but how do you pit it against San Francisco's farm-fresh food, stunning bay views, and small-town friendly vibe? Is Bangkok that much better than Istanbul? And how did Cuzco hop on the list in the #6 slot when it didn't even rank last year?

How do you compare your favorite destinations? And if you had to choose one to rank higher than the others, what criteria would you measure it by?

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Posted in Asia, Polls & Studies, Travel News
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Walkability may not be a factor in choosing a destination, though a walkable city is undeniably attractive, particularly when budget is an issue and gas prices are what they are. For tourists and travelers, walking provides a way to save some cash, get some exercise, be green, and—of course—see the sites. Bipedalism is not something to take for granted. Walking and running around a city gives a real feel for what’s going on and can help work out the kinks from sitting through a long flight or drive.

Though technically a real estate site, Walk Score is a great resource for figuring out which cities and neighborhoods (a very cool function) are particularly walkable. Popular and populous cities are understandably at the top of the list, but I have to agree with most of the choices. Obviously, I feel that New York is the walking city, but I am more and more impressed with Chicago each time I go (not to mention its great beer bars prohibit me from driving even if I had a car there). San Francisco is also a great city to walk around but, of course, beware the hills.

Google Maps now has a very cool feature: in addition to searching for addresses and business, and finding directions, it will now also provide directions for walking, not just driving (this is different from the runners' friend, Google pedometer). This is a valuable application for people looking for routes around an unfamiliar city and who may not want to find themselves walking along a highway or other vehicular thoroughfare. They do warn that “walking directions are in beta. Use caution when walking in unfamiliar areas.” Of course, that’s where Walk Score may come in handy. It’s not so easy to tell what neighborhoods are safe or something simpler, such as where there may or may not be a crosswalk.

I tried to get Google Maps to plot a course from our office to the Brooklyn Brewery. For one reason or another, it sent me via the Manhattan Bridge. As far as I know, the Williamsburg Bridge allows pedestrian traffic and would cut my travel time in half. However, directions from Piccadilly to Buckingham Palace were much more straightforward. However, when I tried to search for walking directions from our NYC office to our SF office (hello Window Seat Ladies!), I could only get driving directions. I guess Google Maps doesn’t give my legs much credit.

About.com publishes a list each year of the best walking cities in the US. I can appreciate not wanting to list the obvious ones, but Chandler, AZ and Henderson, NV? Sorry, Chandlerites and Hendersonians; I’m sure you live in lovely towns, but I was hoping we were talking about cities that would take more than a few hours to see everything.

What are some of your favorite walking cities and what are your criteria?

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Posted in Budget Travel, Green Travel, Guides & Planning, Nature & Outdoors, Travel News
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Travelers with plans to visit Texas and Mexico may have their plans interrupted by Hurricane Dolly, a Category 1 hurricane.

Air travelers should contact their carrier for information on flight changes and cancellations. Airlines may issue flexible policies for customers who wish to reschedule their trips. American Airlines, Continental, and Delta have all issued flexible-travel policies.

Click here for a list of airline phone numbers.

Travelocity customers should refer to the FAQ page for more information and contact information for our Customer Care representatives.

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I’ve been shocked (not really) and outraged (very) at recent airline cuts including in-flight movies, snacks, and magazines. But I would lose it if access to the airplane restrooms was taken away, or only available for an extra fee. I love those things. Even if I don’t have to go, I’ll take a stroll over just to exercise my legs and see what kind of hand lotion is on offer.

So how is it possible that in one recent U.S. poll, over 40% of respondents said they would give up bathroom privileges on planes in exchange for half-price airfare? Evidently, just because these respondents didn’t have to go to the bathroom at the moment they were asked, they neglected to feel the, uh, urgency of having bathroom rights. Is this really what air travel has come to? Passengers are so irked at rising ticket prices—along with new fees for luggage, award-ticket redemption, beverages, and the like—that they’ll go to such extremes to shave off some dollars?

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo Member Ozzy-Dave

Yet on the flip side, the U.S. State Department expects the number of applicants for new credit card-sized passport cards to reach 4 million in less than a year. These cost $45; are invalid if you’re traveling by air; and are valid only when returning from Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean otherwise. What I don’t understand is why the average traveler would apply for one of these when she could get a full-fledged passport for not too much more, or when she already has a passport.

I guess what I really want to know is why some people are willing to shell out $45 for a semi-valid passport while others would be willing to go without facilities on airplanes (really, guys—even in an emergency?) to save. I’m sure the passport card is just right for a targeted group of travelers, but it seems that for most, it isn’t worth it to pick one up—you might end up having to apply for a booklet version down the road. Do other travelers like these ideas for saving, or do you also think our priorities could use a little shuffling?

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to ask the airlines not to get too much more creative with cutbacks: I really, really enjoy my restroom breaks.

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Posted in Air Travel, Polls & Studies
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I've been looking at the numbers and there are a lot of people who are paying attention to the fact that there will be fewer seats available this holiday season. As a result, many of them are booking early to secure their tickets hoping to guarantee themselves a seat later this year to get to their holiday destination. Be it cruise, hotel, family or friend's place it's smarter than ever to book in advance.

Sure enough early bookers are nabbing tickets at what is expected to be the lowest price available this year. Even if oil prices come down, don't expect big price reductions on airline tickets. The airlines are in a tough spot and are trying to get their ticket prices up.

TIPS FOR BUYING EARLY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON:
1. If you have to connect, fly through a major airport or hub. This way, if you do run into problems you're more likely to be able to get on another flight soon.
2. If you're waiting for a better price to come along, don't. Prices aren't likely to go down.
3. Planes will be packed so consider paying a little extra to secure a seat with excess legroom or even an aisle or window.
4. Send gifts in advance, so you can pack light and avoid any excess bag fees.
5. Be sure to check your airline's website in advance to make sure that there haven't been any last-minute changes to your itinerary.

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The first thing I thought when I read this article about a member of boyband Menudo being thrown off a plane was "whoa, Menudo is still culturally relevant? Enough to make the news?"

The second thing I thought was "Wow, being kicked off a plane for refusing to stow your iPod? That's a pretty stupid reason to be kicked off a plane."

And yet that's exactly what happened. Eighteen-year-old Carlos Olivero, a member of the new Menudo---an MTV-manufactured outfit formed in homage to the Ricky Martin-led Latin boyband of the 1980s (who knew?!)---was escorted off a Delta flight to Knoxville, Tennessee this week after failing to put away his iPod when the flight attendant asked him to.

That's right: he turned it off when asked. He just didn't put it away.

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo member DrewD

First we had the woman who was thrown off a plane for breastfeeding. Then there was the toddler whose plaintive cries of "airplane go bye-bye!" prompted a Continental ExpressJet flight attendant to chuck him and his mother off the flight. Not too long afterwards, we had leggy co-ed Kyla Ebbert---remember her?---whose skimpy outfit so enraged a Southwest employee that she was asked to disembark from the aircraft, lest she offend anyone. And now there's old Carlos Olivero, who wouldn't put his iPod away.

Really, airlines? This is what it's come down to? We're taking our shoes off at security and carrying our toiletries in Ziploc bags so we can reduce the likelihood of inviting terrorists onto our planes, and yet cheeky teenagers who won't do as they're told are suddenly a looming threat to airline safety? Because I'm not sure if you've noticed, but teenagers often don't do as they're told. That's kind of their thing. A firm talking-to probably would have done the trick, not the sort of throw-the-baby-out-with-the-bathwater maneuver this flight attendant pulled.

After all, shouldn't a person charged with keeping a large number of people safe in the air have more disciplinary tricks up her sleeve than "fine then, get out"? Shouldn't she be confident enough in her authority to not immediately have to resort to the punishment reserved for passengers who might actually cause harm to other passengers?

Seems to me like we're focusing on entirely the wrong things here, and our flight attendants are never going to be taken seriously in---god forbid---a serious situation, if they're constantly throwing out passengers willy-nilly for ridiculous "crimes" like feeding a baby, traveling with a chatty toddler, wearing a short skirt, or not putting away an iPod. Will any of those things compromise the safety of the plane, the people flying it, or the passengers riding on it? I think not. So why make a big deal out of it? Sorry, flight attendants, but I'm more likely to think you're not in control if you can't even handle those sorts of things without pulling out your trump card right from the get-go.

Or am I totally in the wrong? Did this Delta employee do the right thing by kicking Carlos Olivera and his entourage off the plane?

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For decades, the century-old Magneta Grandfather Clock at The Westin St. Francis was a popular meeting spot in San Francisco, bringing to life the phrase "Meet me at the clock." This social tradition died long ago, but Michael Mina hopes for a revival with the opening of his first-ever cocktail lounge, located just off the hotel’s historical lobby.

The CLOCK BAR opens to the public today, but I got a sneak-peek of the posh new venue this past weekend. My takeaway: everything from the décor to the cocktails reeks of style.

Get there early to claim a desirable piece of bar real estate - for no other reason than to catch a glimpse of the eye candy serving up the drinks. Sip on a Chartreuse Swizzle - I tried several of the signature cocktails, but this was my favorite. And order the lobster chopped salad, the lamb tenderloin panini or a charcuterie plate - Daily Candy recommends stuffing your face only after you’ve determined that there are no potential Mack Daddies in the house.

So, what do you say, meet me at the clock?!

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Last Wednesday, as California's inland temperatures crawled toward the 100-degree mark, I joined some colleagues on a jaunt to the Napa Valley. Despite dry, smoke-hazed air from all of the state's wildfires, and despite a sun so big and bright it’d scared away all the clouds, I was not going to let anything like a little heatstroke deter me from doing the number-one thing people come to the Napa Valley to do: savor that exalted wine.

The day turned out to be a total treat and the heat barely registered, thanks to the following tips:

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo member Sierra.

• Do the Double-Fist
Repeat after me: wine in one hand, water in the other. If there is one thing I can’t stress enough it’s the importance of drinking lots of water. When you’re tasting wines in the heat, there’s not only a dehydration factor, but the mix of all the varieties of grapes and wine types can cause a headache if you’re not careful. At Hall Winery, for example, we started with the light wines and made our way into the heavier reds—all delicious—and the staff was wonderful about making sure there was always enough water on the table for everyone.

• Dress Light and Loose
For obvious reasons, when it’s in triple digits, you want to dress lightly, but why loose? That’s because if you’re in Napa, you better come hungry and with an adjustable belt. Take a certain very decadent grilled cheese I ate at The Meritage Resort. This one came on thick olive bread and was filled with a rich and tangy goat cheese that will make me never look the same way at the standard American-cheese diner sandwich again. Later, we stopped at Viansa’s Italian marketplace, where I had to make room to sample everything, from cilantro-pumpkinseed pesto on crackers to fig-date balsamic vinegar on bread.

• Try Shutting Your Eyes
I know this sounds strange, but bear with me… After we entered into the cool Trinitas Tasting Room (which is located in the Meritage’s wine cave—the only wine cave to boast its own spa!), the sommelier asked us all to take a sip of wine, then close our eyes and think of the first taste that popped into our heads. To preface, he told us the story of a woman who had tried this trick and then shouted out, “it tastes like Saturday morning!” When I tried the same wine, a 2006 Sauvignon Blanc, I closed my eyes, took a sip, and what did I get? Refreshing cantaloupe!

• Go Keyless
If you plan on tasting the wine, then please, please, please don’t drive. Really, if you think you’re just going to taste it and then politely spit it out into the ever-present “spit jug,” I admire the thought--but, honestly, I’ve never seen anyone actually use the spit jug (have you?). Plus, the valley and vineyard views are something you want to be able to relax and enjoy. Designate a driver, hire a chauffer, ride the Wine Train or charter a bus, like we did. We went with Gray Line so none of us had to get behind the wheel, and the bus was comfortable and air-conditioned.

Any other tips? Have fun, stay cool, and happy wine tasting, everyone!

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Posted in California, Culinary Travel, San Francisco
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When it comes to dealing with the future of the airlines, the joys (or hassles) of air travel, and the menacing details of planning for far-off travel dates – we are all in the same boat. That’s right even I, who work in the travel biz, am too at the mercy of the airlines and their flight schedules.

*photo by Howard Ruby

And this is why I’m finding it hard to actually pull the trigger and book my flights for a Polar Bear expedition in Canada this fall. I mean, what if the route I book is one of the routes axed? How will I get there? And it’s not like this is a trip to Orlando where there are tons of other options. If this flight doesn’t go, to put it bluntly, I’m screwed. After all, this is my husband’s 40th birthday trip – if this doesn’t happen what will I do? The trip is non-refundable.

Like many of you, I’m worried. But I’m still going to book. I’m hopeful that the flight will be there. Although I’m going to take a few precautions…just in case. As soon we pass Labor Day, I’ll start checking on my flight periodically (I’ll try not to do it daily, maybe just weekly) to be on the lookout for any schedule changes. I’m also looking into where else I can fly into and whether or not I can drive or train, how long it would take, what it would cost – just in case the plans are foiled. I’m determined not to let what’s happening in the industry totally wreck my travel plans.

Hopefully a little extra planning will help you too.

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Posted in Air Travel
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Four Easy Steps to Saving $500 Bucks

Pain at the pump. Baggage fees. Airfares up 12 percent over last summer. It's almost enough to make you want to stay home. Almost. The truth is though, that most of us still want to take a vacation this summer, and why not? We work hard and deserve some time off. First and foremost: Set a budget and stick to it. Once you’ve decided how much you can spend, use these four steps to actually save money on your next trip – $500 or more.

1. Book a package. A package is not a guided tour. You pick your airline, flight time, hotel property and anything else you need to customize your trip. Bundling the elements of your trip together gives you access to savings you wouldn't have otherwise and saves you $240 on average. Savings: $240.

2. Pack light, pack smart. All six major carriers charge $25 to check a second piece of luggage and four charge $15 for the first piece of cheeked baggage, so do your best to carry on only. If you must check, choose an airline that at least allows some free checked baggage. While American Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Northwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines charge for every piece of checked luggage, there are several airlines which allow one free checked bag. They are AirTran, Delta, Continental, and JetBlue, Mexicana, Midwest and Virgin America. Southwest allows two free checked bags. Savings: $50 - $80 round trip.

3. BYOF – Bring your own food. Most airlines don’t have free food on domestic flights, but they will gladly sell you a snack for about $5. Bring your own better, healthier food and just take the free beverage. One exception: as of August 1, 2008, US Airways will no longer have free in-flight beverage service and will charge $2 for soda, juice, coffee, tea, and bottled water. Savings: $10 RT

4. Maximize time and pay less. Planning to fly out Friday night? Fly out Saturday morning instead. With the average price of a US hotel room topping $100 according to Smith Travel Research, you might want to consider taking that early morning flight instead of paying the full rate to sleep just a few hours at your hotel. Then on your return date, request a late checkout and leave your bags with the front desk. Enjoy a full day’s worth of beach going or sightseeing, because you’re taking an evening flight home. Savings: $200

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Posted in Budget Travel, Travel News
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Earlier this week, we brought you the news that US Airways decided to remove its in-flight movie systems, a move that will decrease the plane’s weight by about 500 pounds and save the carrier a hefty chunk of change. A post on Today in the Sky cited a statistic that supports carriers’ decisions to remove items such as food carts, movie systems and magazines that add weight to a plane: AA saves 14,000 gallons of fuel a year for each pound it lightens a plane's weight by. The estimated savings from that: $7.3 million a year at current fuel prices, CNBC says.

Makes you wonder how much the American public could save the airline industry if we all just lost that extra five or 10 pounds that we’re carrying. Maybe the airlines should invest in a Reduce your Gut, Save us Cash campaign.

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Posted in Air Travel, Travel News
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Picture this: You’re in New York snapping photos of the Empire State Building. Thinking it’d be nice to get a pic of yourself in front of this famous monument, you hand the camera to a passerby--and get back a nice shot of your feet. Then, you try holding the camera out at arm’s length, facing you--and get a blurry close-up of your nostrils instead.

Sound familiar? Sure, these silly, off-the-cuff pics can be fun, but when you get home and look at the results, they’re often a letdown. That’s why New York City Photo Shoot got started: so that instead of floundering around trying to get a halfway decent picture of yourself on your Big Apple getaway, you can just relax--and get some excellent ones.

Photo Shoot, which just launched this month, offers the services of professional photographers on location near some of the city’s best-known sights. There are three package options: famous landmarks, city nights, and Central Park. Photo Shoot claims their pictures “have the artistic style of postcards and high-end magazines”--and they aren’t kidding. The images on their site show dramatically lit couples gracefully offset by various city backdrops. They make my vacation photos look like they were taken by a toddler.

New York City Photo Shoot packages start at $495 and last two hours. For more info, check out their website at www.nycityphotoshoot.com. You can also log on to Travelocity’s Activities website for other great ways to spend your days in the Big Apple.

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Posted in New York City
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Lately I'm obsessed with good customer service. Really, it's Zappos' fault for raising the bar so high. Before a recent sojourn to Paris, I ordered some dressy sandals from the website for my trip. I waited, and waited, and waited…but they never came. Finally two days before I left I sent them a panicked email. They immediately overnighted me a new shipment for free and simply asked that I return the spare pair of sandals when I came home. I wrote them and said, "Wonderful! I love you, Zappos!" They replied:

Hello Alison,

Thank you for your email, and we just wanted you to know that we love you too! Contact us anytime for any reason.

Zappos loves me! And now, I'm a "raving fan," a term I learned from a friend in business school. In today's marketplace, top-notch businesses are striving to turn their customers into the kind of people who will spread the good news about their company--free of charge.

Photo courtesy of IgoUgo member RobAA.

I know we often discuss what's wrong with the airline industry on The Window Seat, but today it is my great pleasure to share a little good news from the skies. One particular airline has turned me into a raving fan: Cathay Pacific.

My fiancé and I have finally chosen Thailand as our honeymoon destination and just the other day we booked our flights like two giddy teenagers. We decided to fly Cathay Pacific, based on the recommendation of Holly, who is a frequent customer of theirs since her family lives in Singapore. But there was just one problem. Cathay's website uses the 24-hour clock (aka military time) and we were booking a midnight flight. Needless to say, we goofed and got the wrong tickets.

While some travel websites offer a 24-hour grace period, we weren’t sure if Cathay did. We immediately called the airline, but it took an hour to get through. Then, the agent charged us $200 to change the tickets and I was pretty frustrated.

But I am pleased to say I contacted Cathay's customer service to report my unhappiness and they remedied the problem…with a smile. Their representative was very polite and apologetic and quickly refunded me the $200 fee. This is notable because they pride themselves on providing exceptional customer service--and it's not just an empty promise. They really do.

Cathay Pacific, here's to you!

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Posted in Air Travel, Asia
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Northwest Airlines announced Wednesday it would begin charging $15 for a first piece of checked luggage. This fee is in addition to the $25 fee for a second checked bag.

Northwest will also begin charging to redeem a frequent-flier ticket. The fee will range from $25 - $100, depending on the destination.

According to the Associated Press (via USA Today), the airline will also cut roughly 2,500 jobs.

Norwest Airlines is the fourth major carrier to charge for a first piece of checked luggage. This charge has also been adopted by American Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways. The fee will apply to tickets sold after Thursday July 10, 2008, for travel starting August 28 to the United States and Canada.

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Posted in Air Travel, Travel Alerts, Travel News
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Following last month’s announcement that they will begin charging $2 for non-alcoholic beverages, US Airways slapped fliers with yet another piece of bad news: the airline will stop showing in-flight movies on its domestic flights.

A US Airways spokesperson said the video systems add about 500 pounds to a plane's weight, increasing fuel use. The airline expects to save about $10 million a year in fuel and other costs by removing the in-flight movie systems.

Tips for US Airways passengers: After you get through the security checkpoint, buy a beverage to take on your flight, and stop by the airport bookstore for a good read. No need to take to the skies thirsty and bored to tears.

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Posted in Air Travel, Travel News
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For my countless fans who have reveled in my accounts of soccer, shooting, and the Super Bowl XLII Champion New York Giants, and who have already read and memorized my profile, you already know about my obsession with sports (and penchant for dressing like the Unabomber). Perhaps it’s better to say it’s an obsession with “athletics.” The “sports” debate is never-ending, but even I know that running is an athletic endeavor, not a sport. Anyway, of my many athletic obsessions, lacrosse is the most over-arching and severe. I have changed flights, ditched school, ignored illness, and infuriated loved ones for the sake of making a game on time. Over the course of any given year, I’ll play in up to nearly 10 different “seasons,” not including a variety of tournaments and one-off games. I’m not sure what it is about the game, but I’ve always gone above and beyond for the sport. This is often necessary in New York City when trying to play a game that requires a larg