US Border Control Implements New Technology to Reduce Long Lines

The United State Border Control has implemented new technology aimed at reducing lines and increasing the efficiency of the United States border crossing process. Launching first in the Vancouver International Airport, and then followed closely by Chicago's O'Hare, the technology will allow for passengers to skip the traditional filled out documents in favor of the now-ubiquitous e-kiosks.

The new program is called Automated Passport Control. It has the ability to set the global standard for improving passenger efficiency when travelling to the United States. Automated Passport Control will eliminate the declaration card by placing all of the necessary questions on the kiosk. Travelers will then receive a printed receipt and show the receipt rather than the hand-written card.  Travelers will then show their passport, kiosk receipt and any other travel information to the customs agent for processing.

The Right and Wrong Ways to Get Your Flight Attendants Attention

Original Article by: Bobby Laurie

Your flight attendant is a very popular person! With fewer flights comes fuller planes and a smaller flight attendant to passenger ratio. In fact, the FAA regulates that ratio and says one flight attendant is needed for every 50 seats on a plane. With most aircraft carrying around 150 people, that's only three flight attendants to tend to everyone's drink, food and special requests on your flight. So, I talked with a few flight attendants and came up with the top five right and wrong ways to get your flight attendant's attention!

WRONG (and probably the WORST): Keep your hands to yourself!
You shouldn't poke, slap or tap them to get their attention. Can you imagine walking through a cabin and having someone at every row poke you on either side, on your back, tap your shoulder or even, slap your behind? You can't? Well I can! On a recent flight that's exactly what happened while I was walking through the cabin picking up trash. Trust me, we're not going anywhere! We're stuck in the same metal tube going 500mph together. I will get around to getting your trash and I know you're there! I became increasingly frustrated as I was being treated like the Pillsbury Dough Boy but only resorted to verbally acknowledging everyone saying "I know, I know, I'm coming! I'll get there.. I see you!" but on a recent Air China flight to Shanghai a passenger was arrested for slapping the behind of a flight attendant with a newspaper. He later told police that he wanted her to move so that he could get to his seat.

RIGHT: Be Aware
Flight Attendant Sam Ward told me that the best way for someone to get his attention is to be aware of what he's doing. Of course, it's okay to interrupt and make yourself known if it's an emergency situation.

WRONG: Misusing the Call Button
Sam says: The use of the call button is like nails on chalk board to FAs because it's abused. Use it when it's something urgent. Ringing the call button to have the flight attendants collect your trash will probably have you being told "I'll be right back," which in flight attendant speak means: "I'll be back in about a half hour with a trash bag." The flight attendants I spoke with concurred that it should be used for urgent situations (unless of course your flight attendants aren't doing their job and walking through the cabin checking up on everyone).

RIGHT: Be Polite
This might surprise you, but most passengers don't say please or thank you. Being polite and courteous to a flight attendant will net you everything you want, as quickly as possible. Cabin Crewmember Autumn Jensen stated "I would like to assume that people would like to be treated with respect, so I would like to be treated with the same respect. Please, thank you, may I, and other such phrases will never go out of style. As with anything in life, it's all about how you ask. Politeness will get you everywhere. Ian Funderburg agreed I always acknowledge when people politely make themselves known and let them know I will be there to help as soon as I am able to.

WRONG: Galley Invaders
Your seat is cramped, the aisle is narrow and the galley seems to be the only place where you can stand - that's okay, but don't over-extend your welcome (and please don't perform galley yoga: the art of bending and stretching right in the flight attendant's faces as they're eating or sitting). The galley is the flight attendant's work space, kitchen, sitting area and cafeteria. If it's a busy flight the flight attendants may be prepping drink orders, snacks and food for other passengers and your being there might be in the way and slow down the process. Going to the galley to request a beverage or a snack is okay, but be respectful of the work they're already doing, in other words, be patient, the requests they're fulfilling at the moment come before you.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your next trip!  

Original article can be found here.

Van Gogh Museum ReOpens

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has reopened after a seven-month renovation. The museum kicked off with a new exhibition "Van Gogh at Work," an exhibition that shows the tortured artist's working methods right down to his paints, brushes and other tools. There is a self portrait in which the artist painted himself behind a canvas, brushes and palette in hand. On loan from the Musee d'Orsay in Paris, are an actual palette and paints that Van Gogh used. They were preserved by Dr. Paul-Ferdinand Gachet, the physician who treated the artist in the final months before his 1890 suicide. 145 paintings and sketches are on display, almost double the museum's usual collection.

A highlight is the display of two versions of Van Gogh's famed yellow "Sunflowers," hung on either side of a green-dominated portrait he painted known as "La Berceuse." A surviving letter, written by Van Gogh, he indicated that he intended the paintings, which usually hang in three different museums, to be displayed that way. The museum displays a replica of part of the letter, which shows sketches of the three paintings in miniature. With the reopening of the museum, all three of the city's biggest art museums are open for the first time in years. The Rijksmuseum, or national museum, which houses national treasures and many of the greatest masterpieces of painters such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer and Jan Steen, opened in April after an epic 10-year, top-to-bottom overhaul. The Van Gogh Museum receives a million visitors a year and is known for long lines, but it has now started a new Internet reservation system that aims to smooth the flow of traffic over the day.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent to book your next Europe vacation!

Los Angeles Airport to Get Major Overhaul

Original article by USA Today

Los Angeles International Airport is a step closer to major renovations that have some neighbors vowing to sue, after the City Council approved a $4.8 billion project Tuesday. The council's 10-3 vote OKs plans to move the northernmost runway about 260 feet closer to Westchester and Playa del Rey neighborhoods, according to City News Service.

Residents say they're skeptical of the airport's claims that the updated runway would more safely accommodate larger, modern planes. They say it's a ploy to draw more traffic to LAX rather than other regional airports. "There will be a lawsuit," said Councilman Bill Rosendahl, who represents the district with affected residents. The council's other dissenting votes were cast by mayoral candidate Eric Garcetti and Dennis Zine, a candidate for city attorney in the May 21 election.

Project program director Diego Alvarez countered that the current airfield was built in the 1960s to accommodate planes that are half the size they are today, causing landing delays because flights use a "nonstandard" process to arrive at LAX. Officials say the landing process is safe but could be safer. The project also would create a transportation station near the airport for light rail, and connect passengers to terminals through an elevated people mover. The project, which has been in the works since 2006, would demolish Terminals 1, 2 and 3 at the airport, consolidate its rental car facility and make road improvements.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent to begin booking your next vacation!

Original article can be found here.

10 Tips for Traveling Abroad

Make the best of your international trip with these 10 tips:
1. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date, and make sure it is signed and the emergency information is filled in.

2. Give yourself plenty of time to get any required travel visas.

3. Make at least 2 copies of your passport. Bring one with you, but keep it separate from the original and leave one copy along with a copy of your itinerary with family or a friend at home.
4. Get travel insurance that includes medical benefits.

5. Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws of where you will be traveling.

6. Register with the U.S. Embassy or consulate before you leave, and also keep the number of the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate with you at all times.

7. Learn enough of the language to at least ask for directions or help.

8. Carry some of the local currency with you, but not too much. You never want to travel with very much cash on you.

9. Bring any prescription medications in their original containers in your carry-on bag.

10. Schedule a doctor appointment about 6 weeks prior to your trip to see if you need any vaccines.
Contact a Travel Professional today to start planning your next international trip!

10 Best Places to Honeymoon

Planning your honeymoon, yet not sure where you should go? Below is a list of some of the most popular honeymoon destinations around the globe.

1. Traveling to Hawaii is only a five-hour flight from most U.S. West coast cities, but it feels very much like an exotic oasis far away. Some of the islands’ highlights include the year-round warm weather, beautiful beaches, and ample luxury resorts. Hawaii can be a great honeymoon spot for anyone who doesn’t have a passport and doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of getting one.

2. Jamaica is a couple’s paradise! Gorgeous beaches that go on for miles; clear, warm waters; quiet alcoves and beautiful waterfalls; lush vegetation; and many couples-only all-inclusive resorts make Jamaica a perfect honeymoon destination.

3. Tahiti is the quintessential exotic island paradise. Whether visiting the island of Tahiti, Bora Bora or Moorea, the beauty of these islands scream romance and relaxation. Over-water bungalows, tranquil white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities are yours when traveling to Tahiti.

4. Fiji is another tropical island paradise, and the natives are some of the friendliest people on earth. Although made up of 330 islands, many of its islands are still uninhabited, and most of the island resorts are on small, private, boat-in only islands. The beautiful white sand beaches of Fiji have warm turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling or diving.

5. Mexico is a great honeymoon location for just about any couple who enjoys an easy lifestyle and plenty of sunshine. Head to the Yucatan (Cancun and Cozumel) for white-sand beaches and warm tropical waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming. The Mexican Riviera (Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan) features plentiful beaches, shopping, and accommodations for any budget. For an adventure rich in history, explore the Mayan Ruins, such as Chichen Itza and Tullum.

6. The lush, mountainous island of St. Lucia has tropical rainforests suitable for hiking, as well as abundant marine life for fantastic diving and deep-sea fishing. The soft, tropical air and tantalizing cuisine will make traveling to St. Lucia a vacation to remember.

7. The romantic islands of the Bahamas are suitable for just about any couple as it offers powder-soft sand beaches, crystal blue waters, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, five-star resorts, casinos and ample nightlife.

8. Italy is the top European honeymoon destination and is rich in history with myriad art galleries and museums. Head to Venice for a moonlit gondola ride, relax on the beaches of Positano, or cruise around the island of Capri. Italy is jam-packed with exciting activities for couples of all ages.

9. France, the romance capital of the world, offers travelers a new surprise around every corner. Between world-famous art museums, the French Riviera, and the sights of Paris, it’s a lovers’ paradise.

10. Antigua features powder-white beaches protected by beautiful coral reefs, which make for perfect conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving. Ample luxury resorts offer guests a variety of indulgences, perfect for newly weds.
Check Out Our Website for more honeymoon ideas, or contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started planning your honeymoon.

Richard Branson Launching New Indian Airline

Richard Branson, the billionaire founder and chairman of Virgin Group Ltd, has been keen on launching an airline in India since the early 2000s. A decade later, he hasn't given up on the Indian market, despite the various troubles in the fledgling domestic sector. "We are still considering setting up a domestic airline (in India) now that the laws have been changed; we still haven't decided for definite one way or the other...I think it will be a Virgin Group investment and it will obviously have an Indian partner. I think the type of airline we'd like to do is like we have in America or in Australia, which is quality domestic airlines,..."

The Virgin Group currently flies Mumbai to London and Delhi to London routes.

Airline Begins Charging Passengers by the Pound

Samoa Air is the world's first airline to charge passengers per pound, rather than per seat. The airline announced that they plan to start pricing tickets according to the weight of passengers and their bags.  Chris Langton, the chief executive of Samoa Air, said this is "the fairest way of traveling".  Apparently passengers will be weighed in at the check-in counter along with their bags. The airline flies smaller aircraft, just around the Islands of Samoa.

Statue of Liberty Opening but Ellis Island to Remain Closed

The National Parks Service has said that it will re-open the Statue of Liberty on July 4th.  However, they will most likely keep the Ellis Island Immigration Museum closed for Hurricane Sandy-related repairs through the rest of 2013. The Statue of Liberty, on Liberty Island, and the Museum on Ellis Island have always been visited by the same tour boats. However, the Museum's Hurricane Sandy-related damage meant that its vast collection of artifacts had to be moved into storage while more extensive repairs are made.

The Parks Service said it will route tour boats from Battery Park for a quick stop at the island only for security processing. The museum will remain closed until all the necessary preparations can be made for artifacts to return to their climate-controlled environment in the museum.

Carnival Announces Spending Multi Millions to Fix Older Ships

Carnival Cruise Line has realized that it must take steps to stop the power-outages and failures that have upset so many passengers recently. They have announced that they are now taking emergency measures to equip all their ships with back-up power sources. Carnival will spend tens of millions of dollars to immediately upgrade the electrical connections from one set of generators to another on its ships that are needing such improvements.

The newest ships built within the last few years have redundancy in their electrical generators, according to recent reports. Older ships may or may not have such back-up facilities. Older ships in the Carnival fleet will be equipped with substitute sources, or access to substitute sources via more powerful and protected power cables, as a result of the immediate expenditures that Carnival executives have promised. The initial steps of this process will take place starting next week.

Norwegian Cruise Line Will Offer First Grammy Experience At Sea

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that it has partnered with The Recording Academy to feature the first Grammy Experience at Sea onboard its newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, set to launch in February 2014. As part of the partnership, Norwegian Cruise Line has been named "Official Cruise Line Partner of the Grammy Awards." The companies will partner on the first Grammy-themed cruise that is scheduled to set sail in the fall of 2014.

The Grammy Experience will be located on Deck 8 on Norwegian Getaway and will feature artifacts chosen and curated by the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles. In the evenings, the venue will feature live performances by past Grammy winners and nominees, among others. More details regarding the Grammy Experience theme cruise will be revealed in the coming months.

Contact a Cruise Specialist today to book your next Cruise Vacation. 

Australia Giving Away Six "Best Jobs in the World"

Tourism Australia is reinventing Queensland's acclaimed campaign, in which Englishman Ben Southall scored a high-paying job as a caretaker of a tropical island in The Whitsundays. Tourism Australia is going to give away six "best jobs in the world" around the country as part of a $4 million youth tourism campaign that was launched in Cairns last week. Each of the jobs will showcase the best tourism attributes of each state and territory.

Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory's tourism boards chose not to be part of the campaign. Each of the jobs comes with a six month salary package worth $100,000, including living costs. Around 35,000 applications were received for first The Best Job in the World campaign in 2009, which achieved worldwide publicity and was hailed as "the best idea since Willy Wonka decided to hide golden tickets in chocolate bars". Tourism Australia said it was prepared for criticism that the idea for the new campaign was not original.

Contact an Australia Travel Specialist today to book your Australian Vacation!

FAA Says 173 Control Towers are Closing

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the federal government will close down 173 small airport towers next month. The closures will affect small airports, many of them rural, where towers are manned by unionized contractors rather than FAA employees. The FAA oversees 250 contract towers. The FAA notified operators in a conference call on Tuesday of the closures. The contract program has been around for the last 30 years and during that time only three airports have been shut down.  Most of the employees are former FAA and military air-traffic controllers.

Taking a Look at Tasmania

Tasmania is an island off the South Eastern coast of Australia, separated from the main land by the Bass Strait. Tasmania is the name of the island as well the state. Sometimes referred to as the Natural State, or the Island of Inspiration, almost 40 percent of Tasmania’s land is preserved as a World Heritage Listed area. This temperate island paradise boasts 20 national parks, and the mild sunny climate makes this a prosperous region for making fine foods and wine.

The capitol of Tasmania is Australia’s second oldest city, Hobart. With the River Derwent running through it and Mount Wellington just behind, Hobart does not lack charm and beauty. Many of the historic colonial houses and buildings in Hobart have been preserved, and are now used as restaurants, art studios, cafes and boutique hotels.

Some of the most popular attractions in Hobart include:

• Bonorong Wildlife Center offers visitors the chance to interact with native animals, including koalas, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, emus and wombats. Open year round, except for national holidays. Tours run twice daily.


• Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is located near the city center and is home to historic plant collections and a large number of significant trees, some dating back to the nineteenth century. Open year round except for Christmas day and Good Friday. Admission is free!
• Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a great place to find out about Tasmania’s history, including its Aboriginal heritage. Also features traveling art exhibits. Open year round. Admission is free!
• Salamanca Place is Hobart’s entertainment hotspot, offering a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, galleries, pubs and nightlife. It is also home to the famous Salamanca Market, which is open every Saturday.
• Kayak tours are one of the best, and perhaps most interesting way to see Hobart. Dozens of tour companies offer these tours year round. Most are about 2 hours long.
• Walking tours can be a fun way to see this scenic city. There are many different tour options available, one to suit just about everyone, including historic tours, coastal walks, treasure hunts and ghost tours.
• Mount Wellington stands right behind the city of Hobart. When it is not covered in snow, there are many walking trails to explore its heavily forested slopes. Near the top is an enclosed look out which provides spectacular views of the city below.

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs are located approximately 80 miles south of Hobart. The richly decorated cave is one of the few caves in Australia formed by dolomite. It began forming over 40 million years ago. Admission to the Cave Tour also includes use of the thermal springs pool, changing rooms, hot showers and barbeques for the day. Open year round.

Port Arthur Historic Site is the best preserved convict settlement in Australia. Every feature of this historic site has a story to tell. Besides the historic buildings, Port Arthur also features magnificent gardens, guided tours and a restaurant and café. It is open every day of the year, except Christmas.

The Cradle Mountain – Lake St Claire National Park is one of the most popular and beautiful natural areas in Tasmania. The park contains a network of walking trails and paths, many of them leading to lookout points with breathtaking views below. There are many picnic areas complete with barbeques throughout the park.

Vineyards and Wineries. Tasmania has over 60 vineyards and wineries, spanning over seven wine regions, mainly on the east side of the state. The wines produced in Tasmania include Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling and Pinot Noir, just to name a few. Many of the wineries offer tours and free wine tastings.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your dream vacation to Australia!

Top Beaches in the World

The winners of the 2013 Travelers' Choice Beaches Awards have been announced. Based entirely on feedback from millions of TripAdvisor travelers, 276 winning beaches were named around the world.
Dedicated lists highlight travelers' favorite beaches in Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Central America, Europe, Middle East, the U.S. and more.

The Top 10 Beaches in the U.S. are:

1. Ka'anapali Beach, Lahaina, Hawaii
2. Siesta Key Public Beach, Sarasota
3. Gulf Islands National Seashore, Pensacola
4. Fort De Soto Park, Tierra Verde
5. Lanikai Beach, Kailua
6. Wailea Beach, Wailea
7. Assateague Beach, Assateague Island, Virginia
8. La Jolla Cove, La Jolla
9. Laguna Beach
10. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Honolulu

The Top 10 Beaches in the World:

1. Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy
2. Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
3. Whitehaven Beach, Airlie Beach, Australia
4. Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
5. Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico
6. Playa de las Catedrales, Ribadeo, Spain
7. Lopes Mendes Beach, Ilha Grande, Brazil
8. Horseshoe Bay Beach, Southampton Parish, Bermuda
9. Eagle Beach, Aruba
10. Rhossili Bay, Swansea, Wales

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your next beach vacation!

Self-Boarding Trial at Heathrow Airport

Passengers in London Heathrow Airport's Terminal 1 are being invited to take part in a two-month 'self-boarding' trial in partnership with South African Airways in an attempt to improve the passenger experience through the use of technology. The self-boarding gates use biometric data to help passengers board their flight faster and more efficiently. When passengers reach the 'self-boarding' gate, they pass through an automatic electronic barrier which takes an infrared scan of their face. This information is checked against the biometric data that was taken at the check-in stage. When the two sets of data scans are successfully matched, the barrier opens and the passengers can pass through and board their flight.

The technology means that a passenger's identity needs to be checked by airline staff only once in the whole departure process, reducing the time it takes for passengers to get to their seats and ready for take off. It also allows airline staff to spend more time with those passengers who require greater assistance. The personal data is stored securely and will be destroyed at the end of the trial. So far over 300 South African Airways passengers have chosen to use the technology as part of their departure journey.

Hawaiian Airlines Begins Service to New Zealand

Hawaiian Airlines recently announced the addition of 31 seasonal flights between Honolulu and its three gateways down under; Auckland, which launches on 13 March, and Sydney and Brisbane, which launched in November. The new flights will add approximately 8,800 new air seats on the three routes during a peak travel period for Kiwi and Australian travelers. The extra flights also offer travelers in Hawaii and North America more options for visiting New Zealand and Australia at a beautiful time of year. Service connecting Auckland and Honolulu is being increased from three to four flights per week from September 19 to October 11, adding four extra flights to the schedule. Hawaiian is increasing its Sydney-Honolulu service from daily to 10 flights per week between September 11 to October 19, adding 17 extra flights to the schedule. Between Brisbane and Honolulu, Hawaiian is increasing from three to five flights per week from September 13 to October 14, adding 10 extra flights to the schedule. Travelers flying on Hawaiian between North America and any of its international destinations can take advantage of free stopovers in Hawaii!

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your Downunder Vacation!

Egypt Moves to Restrict the Sale of Alcohol

Last week the Egyptian government, which has strong links to the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood, said it will no longer issue licenses to sell alcohol in some urban areas.  This includes the newly-built satellite cities on the outskirts of major population centers. Although the ban is unlikely to affect any key holiday destinations, particularly Red Sea resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh, it has raised some fears that growing conservatism could soon affect those travelers wishing to visit the country and enjoy a drink.

The Middle East and North Africa Travel Association, which promotes the region, said that financial realities would most likely discourage the Egyptian government from restricting the sale of alcohol further as tourism is vital to the country's economy. The Red Sea Riviera was deliberately created as a sort of tourist enclave, almost entirely separate from the rest of Egypt and with its own rules and lifestyle. It would be more likely to ban alcohol in the Upper Egypt resorts of Luxor and Aswan in the belief that tourists will continue to visit there whether there is alcohol available or not. While Egypt suffered from a sharp fall in overseas visitors following the Arab Spring, recent figures show that the country is beginning to bring in more tourists again.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your Egypt Vacation! 

Jordan is First Middle East Country with Tourism Webcams

The Jordan Tourism Board and Earth Cam have teamed up to launch a collection of live streaming webcams, with views of some of the country's most treasured and visited locations. Earth Cam's webcams act as a virtual visual passport. Some of the things that can now be seen via webcam are; views of the Citadel in the capital city, Amman. Excavations at this site have uncovered Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic remains. A second webcam takes viewers high above the busy city streets and delivers sweeping views of the always active capital. Another camera, located at the Dead Sea, holds the title of the lowest webcam on the planet. Included in the collection is the first webcam to deliver views of the ancient site of Petra, Jordan's most valuable tourism site. Earth Cam's Jordan webcams are available 24/7 at no cost. Experience Jordan with live views at http://visitjordan.com/earthcam/

"Child-Free" Seating Zone on Air Asia

Air Asia X, the long-haul branch of budget carrier Air Asia, is now offering a child-free seating zone on some of its flights. Beginning this week, kids younger than 12 years old are "strictly off-limits" in the first seven rows of economy class on most of the company's flights.  The airline operates flights between China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Australia and Nepal. According to the carrier's website, passengers can choose to sit in this 'Quiet Zone', which also features special ambience lighting, for the standard seat-selection fee of $11-$35.

The airline joins Malaysia Airlines, who recently banned all children under 12 from the upper-level economy deck in its Airbus A380s on the Kuala Lumput- London Route. Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your next Asian vacation!

Rio de Janeiro Mixing Technology with Tradition

Rio de Janeiro is providing tourist information about the city by embedding new bar codes into the black and white mosaic sidewalks that are a symbol of the city. The first two-dimensional bar codes, or QR codes, as they're known, were installed Friday at Arpoador, a massive boulder that rises at the end of Ipanema beach.

The image was built into the sidewalk with the same black and white stones that decorate sidewalks around town with mosaics of waves, fish and abstract images. When these QR codes are scanned by smart phone or tablet users, it redirects them to a website that is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The website provides users with a map of the area in addition to interesting and useful information. The city plans to install 30 of these QR codes at beaches, vistas, and historic sites, so Rio's approximately 2 million foreign visitors can learn about the city as they walk around!

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to plan your next South America vacation!

Rent a "Napcab" at Munich Airport

Munich Airport now has a number of "sleeping cabins" at its international departures gate. These air-conditioned "Napcabs" all have adjustable lighting, Wi-Fi, a small bed, work desk, an iPhone dock and charge station. A media touch screen in the "cab" plays music and displays flight information. Cabins can fit hand luggage and are lockable.

These units can be booked for as long as 12 hours. The cost is 10 Euros per hour (between 10pm - 6am) or 15 Euros per hour (between 6am - 10pm). The airport also hosts 50-minute airport tours. By bus, participants see the runways of Terminals 1 and 2, freight buildings, maintenance hangars and engine-testing facilities.

Frescoes Discovered in Rome Colosseum

Italian restorers cleaning the Colosseum have discovered remains of frescoes indicating the interior of one of the world's most famous monuments may have been colorfully painted in Roman times. The 2,000-year old arena, originally looked far different from the stone ring that has become one of the symbols of Rome.

The frescoes were found in a passage that had been closed for decades. The passage lead to the highest level of eating, a wooden gallery reserved for the lowest classes and furthest from the action in the arena. The restorers scraped off years of linescale and black pollution from car exhaust and found the remains of the frescoes, with their vivid red, blue, green and white colors still visible. The same team also discovered ancient sketches by spectators who painted crowns and palm trees. The Latin word "VIND", referring to victory or revenge, was also found. The frescoes likely date from after 217 AD, when a fire destroyed the wooden gallery that topped the Colosseum. The frescoes were discovered during the monument's first comprehensive restoration project in 73 years, a 25 million Euro project to clean the entire building by 2015. After the restoration is complete, 25 percent more of the Colosseum will be open to visitors, particularly the underground network of tunnels, storerooms and cages.

Restorers have cleaned only a small part of the monument so far, and hope to reveal the detail of what the frescoes depict underneath marks left by centuries of visitors. Written in a modern script, the name "Luigi" was scratched into a well-preserved red section of fresco. Nearby was scrawled the date "1620", and "J. Milber from Strasbourg, 1902".

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next Italy vacation!

London's Newest Tourist Attraction

London's newest and tallest tourist attraction, The Shard, opens to the public on February 1, offering visitors 40-mile views extending across the city. The Shard, which stands at 1,061 feet was briefly the tallest building in Europe but already lost the title to Moscow's new Mercury Tower.

The Shard is a mixed purpose building combing a hotel at ground level with residential accommodation and a tourist attraction, The View from the Shard. The View is the highlight, which is the deck on the 72nd floor and it claims to be the only place where you can see the entire city of London. Interactive digital 'Tell: scopes' have been installed around the main viewing deck on level 69 and help visitors to locate less obvious landmarks and provide alternative real-time, sunrise, sunset and night views of the city, plus information about the surroundings.

Tickets cost £24.95 for adults, £18.95 for children. The Shard is located at London Bridge tube station. It will contain a Shangri-La luxury hotel. The viewing deck is surrounded by the pointed glass panes that give the Shard its name. It is only open air above your head. The downside of the glass barrier is that it ruins your photos and raindrops obscure the view. Around the gallery, animated maps and video screens will illustrate the growth of London. Visitors will transfer lifts at level 33, where they will walk over a graffiti word map of London. There is a gift shop at level 69, and it has free Wi-Fi!

TSA Testing "Behavior Detection" Program

The TSA is testing a new behavior detection program where officers use on-the-spot observations and conversations with passengers to select some for the quicker pass through the checkpoint. The program is called Managed Inclusion and is currently being tested at Indianapolis and Tampa airports. If the tests are successful, the agency plans to expand the program to more airports this year. The idea is to selectively identify certain passengers who appear to pose no threat and invite them to use lanes dedicated to the Pre Check program that the agency began in October 2011.

One reason for the program is to see that the TSA Pre Check lanes are being fully utilized during the day. The system works like this: As you are in the queue, behavior detection officers will be observing you, and if they feel that there is nothing about you that alarms them, you might be asked to come out of the queue, and invited to go through the Pre Check lane," Because this is done randomly, there is no guarantee that you will be asked to go through the Pre Check lane. Then you would be able to keep your shoes on and leave your laptop in its case. You still have to go through metal detectors or body-imaging machines at the checkpoints. Your carry-on will still be put through magnetometers. Behavior detection officers use techniques familiar in some overseas airports, engaging passengers in casual conversation to look for suspicious behavioral clues.

Concordia Estimated to be Removed by End of Summer

The officials that are overseeing the removal of Costa Concordia from its precarious perch off Giglio Island, Italy are now estimating the wreck will be gone by the end of summer 2013.  However, in cautioning local residents, they said it would be misleading and unrealistic to fix a precise date for the conclusion of the work. In their latest briefing to the community, representatives of the Titan-Micoperi consortium said it is reasonable to expect possible work suspensions due to bad weather and sea conditions or other unforeseeable situations. Early on it was hoped the wreck could be refloated by January, but in August that timeline was set back to March or April, and estimates have continued to stretch further out due to the dynamic and unprecedented nature of the project.

The iconic yellow funnel is being removed to facilitate the completion of the inland holdback system that will help stabilize the vessel when it's upright. The removal of the funnel's internal structures was completed on Sunday.  The ship sank, after running aground in January 2012.

Longest High-Speed Railway Opens in China

The longest high-speed rail line opened in China earlier this week. It is 2,298 kilometers (about 1,428 miles) long, bisecting the country between the capital Beijing in the north and the southern city of Guangzhou. Trains on the  high-speed line will initially run at 300 kph (186 mph), with a total travel time of about eight hours.  This is a huge reduction from the previous 20 hours it takes on the still-operational old-fashioned track between Beijing and Guangzhou. The project signals that China hasn't given up on its rail ambitions despite major setbacks, such as last year's deadly train crash near the city of Wenzhou. The new line will help China reach its goal of having 18,000 kilometers of high-speed railway by 2015. Ticket prices on the new line start at about $139

TSA Screening Relaxed for Seniors and Children

A reminder that the TSA recently relaxed security screening for seniors over 75 and children aged 12 and under. The new policies allow children, that are 12 years or younger, to go through airport security without taking off their shoes and to minimize the need for pat-downs, children are now allowed to go through metal detectors and body scanners several times to clear any alarms. Screening changes for passengers who are 75 years or older are similar to the screening process for children. Elderly people will also be able to go through airport security without removing their shoes or a light jacket and will be able to go through the metal detector and body scanners several times to clear any alarms. The TSA has also started a new program to help frequent travelers move through security checkpoints faster. The program is called 'TSA Pre' and is available in more than 30 US airports to frequent passengers of a limited number of airlines, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines. Travelers who enroll in this program: "Do not need to take off their shoes and belts while going through security; Can keep their computers inside their bags; Can go through security without taking off a light jacket."

10 Dazzling Spots to Ring in the New Year

Article from CNN.com

For many people, New Year's Eve can be disappointing -- there's so much hype in the lead-up to the event that when it actually comes around, it often falls short of the mark.

Madding crowds, endless taxi queues and even longer lines to get to the bathroom -- it's no wonder so many people choose to stay at home with a good movie and a bottle of bubbles.

Howvever, certain destinations around the world offer such spectacular greetings to the new year, that you may want to seriously consider braving the throngs for a front-row seat.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong's harbor dazzles for most of the year, but on December 31 it really glows. This year, for the first time, the city's midnight fireworks display will journey across town, beginning at the sea and moving along Victoria Harbour to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

The best places to view the action? The Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, the promenade from the Avenue of Stars to Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai and the area near Central Pier. Come back in February to witness the whole spectacle again as the city prepares to ring in the Chinese New Year (February 10).  

Entire article can be found at CNN.

Travel Team Agent Just Returned from Tahitian Islands

One of Travel Team's South Pacific Specialists, Camille, just returned from a trip to Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea!  While she was there, she toured many of the top hotels on these islands.  This is her recount of the three islands:

The island of Tahiti Very pretty! Yes there is the 'city' of Papeete or Fa'aa, but that's just one part of the island. If you are interested in the culture & history of French Polynesia, this is the place to be. There are a couple of excellent museums and the big Le Marche or shopping bazaar, if you're into shopping. I visited 4 different properties on Tahiti and personally, I loved the Radisson. But it's on a black sand beach, and that's not for everyone. The sand is so fine and beautiful and is used in a lot of spa treatments. My skin came back SO soft!! And that was just from BEING there! Not even any spa treatments. All of their rooms are ocean view and are very beautiful. You don't have the option of bungalows here, though. If you prefer a white sand beach, then I would say the Le Meridien. The Intercontinental is beautiful, but their sand bottom pools gets the sand redone during the month of February, so you wouldn't have that option. And then there is Manava Suites and they have all suite rooms. It's also a beautiful property, but smaller than the others. You can always take day tours over to Moorea from Tahiti, too!

The island of Moorea Also amazing. But different! Not as busy as Tahiti, but by the ferry it's a little more built up. There is more of a variety of both land & sea activities on Moorea, I found. We did this great 4WD tour into the mountains where at the peak of the road we could see over both bays of Moorea. It's shaped a bit like a heart, the island is, with two bays. I found the best snorkeling right off the beach at the Hilton Moorea. Now they have the option of garden bungalows with your own private plunge pool, as well as partial overwater and full overwater. Their overwater bungalows are really beautiful, but so are the garden! The private plunge pool is such a nice touch. And the snorkeling off the beach? Better than Bora Bora, I thought! There are lots of other properties in Moorea depending on how much more you want to spend. If you'd like to be more secluded, there is Legends, but it is more up a hillside and all the villas have private Jacuzzis. It's a much smaller property but very romantic & secluded. Not on the beach, though. They offer boat transfers out to a private motu for the day! There is an Intercontinental as well and they have a turtle clinic and dolphin center, both of which are for rehabilitating injured turtles & dolphins. This is a huge property, but very environmentally conscious. They have standard hotel rooms but also garden & overwater bungalows. Or rather, partial overwater, but you can still jump right off your balcony into the water and snorkel over rich coral! The Sofitel Moorea is on the east side of the island and is the only property with views of Tahiti so it's quite dramatic. I think this was my favorite. They have garden bungalows where if you request the first row, you'll have an unobstructed view of the ocean because they are staggered behind the beach bungalows. They are also on the longest stretch of white sand beach in Moorea. There are also beach and overwater that are equally as stunning, but if your budget doesn't afford the overwater, I think the gardens are beautiful. No plunge pool though, you have the entire protected lagoon! :-) The also have an extensive spa with outdoor treatment rooms unlike any I'd seen before!

The island of Bora Bora Yes, save the best for last. :-) And actually, I wouldn't say best, I would just say different. It really is just like all the pictures. But one of the major differences between Bora Bora and the other islands, is that the majority of the resorts are all on the fringing atoll encircling the island. Most people never even stay on the main island! You can do tours, I believe, and there is a town there, but the reason most people come to Bora Bora is the stunning lagoon and beaches. Here it really is the most expensive, too! But I also found my other favorite garden bungalows, at the Bora Bora Pearl. These private little residences have their own private plunge pool, and garden and outdoor shower. The whole setting is lush & tropical, but cool & soothing at the same time. And OH so romantic! They do have beautiful over the water bungalows, yes, and their beach bungalows are also amazing, but my favorite truly is the garden. You're still just steps from the beach, but it's just so much more private. And they have the biggest spa I saw with the most variety of treatments. Bora Bora is all about luxury and relaxation. Lounging on your deck or by the beach, eating fresh fish (food is VERY expensive in Bora Bora & Moorea! French Polynesia in general.) and maybe having a couples massage or private dinner on a secluded motu. Where Moorea has the 4WD tour, in Bora Bora, you swim with & feed sting rays. My second favorite property is the Le Meridien Bora Bora because they have a turtle sanctuary and are very environmentally conscious and they have the largest glass floor over water bungalows. Just stunning! We stayed at the Four Seasons and I would say the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons are the largest I saw! The glass panes in the floor are smaller, but there were about 4 in our room, and the room plan is open & spacious. They start their check in process at the airport and finish it with a private tour of your room! Top notch service.

All properties provide all sorts of complimentary non motorized activities and most include breakfast. I'd say taking out a breakfast & dinner plan when in Bora Bora is the most economical way to dine. The breakfast buffets are HUGE! Everywhere. :-) You really could just fill up with breakfast and then be ready for dinner and not have to spend anything additional while you are there! Well, we all end up buying drinks sometimes, but know it can be between $15 - $25 for ONE cocktail depending on the bar. It's best to buy a bottle of something at duty free, grab some juice at the local shop and enjoy sunset from your deck with your sweetie! :-)

Contact Camille or another Travel Team Tahiti Specialist today to begin planning your Tahiti vacation!

Airline Now Scanning Boarding Passes from iPhones

Virgin Atlantic Airlines is now allowing passengers to scan boarding passes on their iPhone before a flight. The airline claims to be the first UK based airline to use Passbook for its boarding cards. Passbook is an application that allows users to store coupons, tickets, store cards and other forms of mobile payment. Customers can choose to have their boarding pass sent directly to their phone when they check-in online and it is then ready to be scanned at the departure gate before boarding the flight.

A spokesperson for the airline said "Passbook integration works seamlessly with our website, and will enable a speedy check-in and ensure your boarding card is stored safely and securely in the Passbook app on your iPhone or iPod touch." Passbook stores the boarding card data in an industry standard barcode which can be scanned and read at departure gates at all Virgin Atlantic UK departure airports, Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester.

Most Stressful Airports in the U.S.

While travel shouldn't have to be stressful, it often is, especially when dealing with airports. Whether it's the massive crowds or waiting in the long security lines, all the crowded hustle and bustle often leads to travel stress. Recently the KRC Research group released a study on the most stressful airports in the United States based on interviews with over 1,500 business travelers. Here are the results for the top 10 most stressful U.S. Airports;

1. Chicago O'Hare International Airport, 2. Los Angeles International Airport, 3. John F. Kennedy International Airport, 4. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, 5. New York's LaGuardia Airport, 6. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, 7. Newark Liberty International Airport, 8. George Bush Houston Intercontinental Airport, 9. San Francisco International Airport, 10. Miami International Airport.

Airlines Facing a Shortage of Pilots

Earlier this week the Wall Street Journal reported that US airlines are facing the most serious threat of a serious pilot shortage since the 1960s.  Higher experience requirements for new employees is about to take hold as the industry is also bracing for a wave of retirements. Federal mandates that take effect next summer will require all newly hired pilots to have at least 1,500 hours of prior flight experience, that is six times the current federal minimum. Raising the cost and time to train new pilots in time when pay cuts and more-demanding schedules already, have made the profession less attractive then it once was.

Meanwhile, thousands of senior pilots at major airlines will start hitting the mandatory retirement age of 65 soon. Another federal safety rule, which will give pilots more rest time is scheduled to take effect in early 2014. This change is expected to force passenger airlines to increase their pilot ranks by at least 5%. Adding to the problem is a small but steady stream of U.S. pilots moving to overseas carriers, many of which already face an acute shortage of aviators and pay handsomely to well-trained U.S. captains. Airlines for America, a trade group of the largest carriers that collectively employ 50,800 pilots now, cites a study by the University of North Dakota's aviation department that indicates major airlines will need to hire 60,000 pilots by 2025 to replace departures and cover expansion. All U.S. airlines, including cargo, charter and regional carriers together employ nearly 96,000 pilots, and will need to find more than 65,000 over the next eight years.

The biggest impact for passengers is expected to be with the smaller, regional carriers. They have traditionally been a training ground feeding pilots to the bigger airlines, but this trend is expected to change.

Airline Policies for Passengers Who Don't Fit in One Seat

Many airlines are now implementing policies for passengers that don't fit in a "normal-width" seat, which is typically 17 inches wide.  Some are requiring the purchase an additional seat, while other airlines are dealing with each passenger on a case-by-case basis.  In some cases, passengers have been refused boarding.  These are some of the current airline policies:

Air Canada
After a Supreme Court ruling, the airline must offer larger passengers a free seat, but only after receiving an approved doctors note. Those without medical approval may expect to be required to purchase a second seat at a cost to be determined by the airline.

Airtran
If a customer cannot lower the armrest, they will be required to purchase an extra seat. The airline will sell you the second seat at the lowest available cost.   If none are available, the passenger may not be able to fly.

Alaska
Passengers must fit within the 17 inches between armrests or purchase a seat in advance. Those who do not cannot be guaranteed boarding unless a second seat is purchased in advance. The second seat can be purchased at the airport only if there is still space available on the flight, and the lowest available fare at the time will be offered.

American
Customers who are unable to fit into a single seat, unable to properly buckle their seat belt with an extender or unable to lower both armrests without encroaching must purchase an additional seat when booking the original reservation. Two adjacent seats will be offered at the same rate in advance; if you have not handled this when you arrive at the airport, see an agent before proceeding to the gate if empty seats are available, you may be able to snag one for free.

Delta
Passengers are not required to purchase additional seats based on size, but you may be asked to move or wait for the next flight with additional seating space. The airline does recommend that you purchase an additional seat in advance if you think that you might need one and cannot afford to wait around for a flight with empty seats.

Frontier
If airline staff determines that you will not fit into one seat, they can require you to purchase another one. The seat will be offered at the lowest possible fare at the time of purchase.

JetBlue
The airline does not officially require the purchase of a second seat; armrests are 17.8 apart, which good news for many larger customers. Passengers do have the option to purchase a second seat, regardless of size, at the current fare offered.

Southwest
Customers who encroach on any part of a neighboring seat should book the needed number of seats prior to travel. The armrest is considered to be the definitive boundary and measures 17 in width. The seat will be offered at the same price as the first one at time of booking it is not recommended to wait until you arrive at the airport; Southwest is known for being particularly inflexible on this issue.

United
Armrests must be able to go down and stay down regardless if you are seated next to a friend or family member you must purchase a second seat. Those who decline to do so or upgrade to larger seats risk being refused at the gate. A second seat may be purchased for the same fare as the original seat provided it is purchased at the same time those who do not risk being charged walk-up fares later on.

US Airways
Handles it case-by-case, offering extra space when available, or may require waiting for a later flight. If the passenger will not change flights, they will be required to purchase a second seat at the gate.

Virgin America
Larger guests are asked to purchase two seats in advance upon initial booking; no specific policy regarding those who choose not to.

Some airlines will give refunds for the second seat purchased if the airplane does not fly full.  That is something you would want to check directly with the airline about.

Disney Radio Frequency Identification "Magic Band"?

Walt Disney Parks has reportedly filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission for a new type of wrist band with RFID - Radio Frequency Identification technology.

Disney is calling this new wrist band the "Magic Band," and it would possibly replace park admission paper tickets. The band has what seems to be the new FastPass Plus logo and appears to be personalized with the owner's name. The application describes the new band as something you wear on your wrist that transmits a wireless signal, is powered by a small round battery, and has no on or off switch.  Disney hasn't announced the purpose of the wrist band - but it seems likely that this new Magic Band could be used to replace paper admission tickets, no more tickets to scan, just a wrist band to swipe. It would also reduce lost paper ticket issues, and possibly allow hotel guests entry into resort hotel rooms.

There could be other reasons beyond simple guest convenience that Disney wants to use RIFD technology to track guests. What if Disney could precisely understand traffic patterns, and then take action to better distribute people around the park - such as deploying entertainment or sending special offers to mobile phones? It's possible these bands, it is mainly speculation at this point.

Scariest Places in the World

During Halloween season, many are looking to get their scare on. If scary haunted places are your thing, you might want to check out these, most haunted places in the world:

Catacombs in Paris, France. Long ago, as the city of Paris grew, it became necessary to provide more space for the living. To do so, city engineers and planners decided to move the dead. Millions of dead Parisians were quietly disinterred in one of the largest engineering feats in history and their remains were deposited along the walls of the chilly, dank passageways lying beneath the City of Light. They lie there to this day. A million visitors a year are said to visit the infamous Paris Catacombs.

New Orleans, Louisiana is considered by locals, visitors and paranormal investigators world wide as by far the most haunted city in the United States. With 200 years of ghostly legends involving Voodoo curses, Spanish moss draped oak encircled duels, cold-blooded murders, stories of Revolutionary War Pirates and Civil War soldiers, and Jazz, New Orleans has earned a serious reputation as Haunted New Orleans.

Aokigahara Forest, Japan. Also known as the Sea of Trees, Aokigahara is a forest that lies at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan. It has been claimed by locals and visitors that these woods are host to a great amount of paranormal phenomena. It is an old ancient forest reportedly haunted by many urban historical legends of strange beasts, monsters, ghosts, and goblins, which add to its serious and sinister reputation.

The Underground Vaults in Edinburgh, Scotland were discovered in the mid-80’s, after being abandoned for nearly 200 years. Lying beneath the South Bridge, a major Edinburgh passage, the vaults were used as cellars, workshops and even as residences by the business owners that plied their trade on the busy bridge above. They were abandoned soon after they were built due to excessive water and moisture. The vaults still remain unaltered, never illuminated by the light of day. In recent years, many visitors have been attacked by the unseen and left with bruises, cuts, and scratches. Others have been knocked unconscious and overcome by debilitating nausea and vomiting. Recently visited by the crew from England’s “Most Haunted,” the vaults maintained their reputation as the spookiest place in Edinburgh – no member of the team would voluntarily return there.

The Coliseum, Rome, Italy. In the pits beneath the Coliseum, gladiators waited to fight, prisoners waited to die, and average Romans placed bets on the outcomes of myriad competitions. Such a fabric of life can’t help but wrap itself around the pillars and posts that make up the foundation of this ancient charnel house. It is no surprise that many reports of ghostly activity have been associated with the Coliseum over the years. Visitors and tour guides alike have reported cold spots, being touched or pushed, and hearing indiscernible words whispered into their ears. Security guards with the unenviable task of securing the ancient Coliseum have reported hearing the sounds of swords clashing, and, oddly enough, the sound of ghostly animal noises such as the roars of lions and elephants.

To get started booking your next haunted vacation, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

American Airlines Announces New Routes

American Airlines announced this week that the company will be adding service to more destinations around the world, including Asia, Europe and Latin America.

American is focusing almost all of its flights out of five U.S. cities and using bankruptcy protection to cut costs and outsource more flights and also use different aircraft. A new daily flight is planned beginning in April 2013 between Chicago and Düsseldorf, where One World partner Air Berlin operates a regional hub and most of its own flights to North America. Deutsche Lufthansa currently flies the route. American currently routes much of its traffic to and from the continent through the London Heathrow hub of alliance partner British Airways, and will include the new flight in the deal it has with BA and Spain's Iberia to share revenues and profits on trans-Atlantic flights. It is also adding a flight from New York JFK to Dublin. In May, a daily flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Seoul will be launched in partnership with Japan Airlines, another One World member. American is also starting flight services between Dallas and Lima, Peru in April, in partnership with an affiliate of One World member Lan Airlines.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your next international vacation!

China's Plans for Mega-Airport

Beijing recently revealed plans to build a mega-airport that is set to the best and the biggest in the country.  When it opens in late 2017, the Beijing Daxing International Airport will have space for 130 million passengers a year, that is 23 million more than London's Heathrow and New York's JFK airports combined!

It is planned to be 55 square kilometers, which is slightly larger than the island of Bermuda.  The airport will feature eight commercial runways and the design aims to limit the distance and time it takes the planes to taxi to and from the gates. Passengers will be able to take a high-speed train that will take them from the airport to Beijing in less than 30 minutes.

Contact a Professional Travel Consultant today to book your next Asia Vacation!

Design Plans for the New Titanic

The design plans for Titanic II will be announced at a black-tie dinner party that is going to be held in New York City in early December.  The Australian, Clive Palmer will launch the design and engineering plans for the building of a full size replica of the Titanic, which will be called Titanic II.

The dinner will be held aboard the retired aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, now home to the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, at Pier 86. The menu will be the same as the dinner menu was aboard the Titanic. Auctions will be held for answerthecall.org that raises money for the New York Police & Fire Widows' and Children's Benefit Fund. A full-scale version of the original ship is being designed by the Finnish-based naval architecture and engineering firm Deltamarin.  Palmer announced this week the appointment of Titanic historian Steve Hall as the design consultant to the Titanic II project. Clive Palmer is one of Australia's wealthiest men.

San Jose, Costa Rica Gets First Street Signs

It is hard to believe that the city of San Jose has had no street signs until now. Last week residents got their first look at the new signs. Now they won't have to cite local landmarks when giving directions.

Municipal workers will install about 22,000 signs and plaques on street corners in the city where the current informal system is tolerated by residents, but creates headaches for visitors and the post office. Many streets will be named after illustrious political and intellectual figures from Costa Rican history. Costa Rica embarked on a street-naming crusade about 30 years ago, but the signposts were never installed. This time funding from two different banks made the $1 million project possible.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your Costa Rica vacation!