Two major airlines, United Airlines and US Airways, have recently announced a new baggage policy that will require consumers traveling in economy class to pay a $25 fee for checking a second bag. This new policy applies for tickets bought after February 4th (US Airways) or after February 26th (United) for traveling within the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands or Canada on or after May 5, 2008. Other carriers are expected to follow.
Delta hasn't felt the need so far to tell you that beginning May 1, the fee will go into effect. It doesn't matter whether you booked your flight well before that date; if you're flying after May 1, you're paying for that second piece of luggage. At Delta, the fee affects both domestic and international flights (though business- and first-class and SkyMiles holders won't have to pay).
Northwest Airlines today announced changes to its luggage policies for coach class customers traveling within North America. For coach class travel on or after May 5, 2008, Northwest Airlines is matching several other U.S. network carriers and implementing a $25 charge for the customer’s second checked bag. The fee is applied each way. Coach class customers may continue to check one piece of luggage free of charge. These policies also apply to Northwest Airlink customers flying on Mesaba, Pinnacle or Compass Airlines.
Northwest Airlines’ Silver, Gold and Platinum WorldPerks elite customers, SkyTeam elite customers and passengers booked in full fare classes (Y or B) may still check two bags free of charge. Customers booked in first class can continue to check up to three bags free of charge.
All airlines currently allow one free checked bag, one carry-on and a personal item, such as your purse or laptop computer.
Other changes include an increase to $100 for three or more checked bags. Don’t expect to cheat the system by just buying a bigger suitcase. These airlines also increased the fee for over-weight bags from $50 for each bag that goes over the 50 pound weight limit, to $100 per bag.
American Airlines announced on Thursday it may start charging $25 to check a second bag. American said it filed a notice with the Canadian government indicating it may change its bag fee structure in Canada. That country requires 45 days notice to review such a change.
Only Continental and Alaska Airline has not announced a similar charge ... yet.
I think the next hurdle will be the "Battle of the Overhead Bin" .... when will the airlines start to charge for priority boarding? Hmmm ..... to be continued!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
A New Beginning as Peace is Restored in Kenya!
A New Beginning as Peace is Restored in Kenya!
The New Year did not start well for Kenya. Kenyans found themselves the center of world attention as civil unrest erupted following the disputed elections. But although this was a disastrous start, Kenyans celebrated when the news flashed around the world on 28th February that an agreement had been signed between the two Kenyan political leaders, President Kibaki and Hon Odinga, ending the political impasse and restoring peace and harmony to the country.
The power-sharing agreement brought the two opposing sides together in a coalition government on terms agreeable to all and was the result of the efforts of Kofi Annan who had performed the role of mediator in the preceding weeks. This has provided the political solution to allow the country to recover from the civil unrest and we are confident that it will soon restore Kenya to its position as one of the most stable and successful countries in Africa. Kenyans were delighted to see an end to the political stalemate and tension. The feeling of relief was evident among people everywhere and for the first time in weeks optimism was high as many Kenyans expressed their hopes for a better and brighter future.
Since the ending of the political crisis, things have quickly returned to normal as peace and calm have been restored. The wildlife reserves, safari camps, beach resorts and international airports had all continued operating normally throughout the crisis and the 70,000 tourists who were visiting Kenya were not affected in any way but many visitors had decided to postpone their safaris until they could be assured that peace prevailed.
Now Kenya is able to welcome visitors back with the assurance that once again they can feel confident that they will be safe and secure while on holiday in Kenya.
To welcome guests back, many safari camps, among them all four Porini Camps are offering great value safaris, representing big savings on the usual prices.
Porini offers two great value safaris for travel in June: Staying at the Porini Camps in Selenkay, Amboseli, Laikipia and the Masai Mara.
6 nights / 7 days PORINI WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE US$1850 per person
8 nights / 9 days BIRDS AND BIG GAME SAFARI US$2299 per person
* Accommodation are in spacious and comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms
* Day and Night Game drives in open-sided 4x4 safari vehicles
* Highly experienced professional safari guides
* Sundowners at scenic viewing points
* Escorted walks with Maasai guides and visit to Maasai village
* All meals, house wines, local beers, gin & tonics, soft drinks and mineral water
* All internal flights & park/conservancy fees
* Valid for travel in June only
* Valid for bookings confirmed and paid by May 15th 2008
Porini camps are small and exclusive, so there is limited space available. I recommend that you book now if you are looking for a super value safari to some of Africa's finest wildlife reserves, with prices for 7 days starting at $1850 per person inclusive of local flights, transport, all meals and drinks, and a host of activities including escorted walks, sundowners, authentic Maasai village visit, game drives in 4x4 vehicles with our excellent guides and night drives to see the nocturnal animals.
June is a good time to visit as the parks will be green after the rains and many of the animals will have given birth to coincide with the availability of lush grazing. This is also a time when there are likely to be fewer visitors in the parks before the high season and school holiday period of July, August and September.
Kenya's tourism industry plays a vital role in creating jobs and livelihoods for Kenyans and visitors always receive a warm welcome from the moment they arrive. By choosing a holiday in Kenya in June you will be helping the country to get back to normal so you will find you are especially welcome!
Please call or email me if you need any more information and I will be delighted to assist in arranging your safari or beach holiday in Kenya.
Kristina at 206-297-7179 or toll free 877-297-7179
The New Year did not start well for Kenya. Kenyans found themselves the center of world attention as civil unrest erupted following the disputed elections. But although this was a disastrous start, Kenyans celebrated when the news flashed around the world on 28th February that an agreement had been signed between the two Kenyan political leaders, President Kibaki and Hon Odinga, ending the political impasse and restoring peace and harmony to the country.
The power-sharing agreement brought the two opposing sides together in a coalition government on terms agreeable to all and was the result of the efforts of Kofi Annan who had performed the role of mediator in the preceding weeks. This has provided the political solution to allow the country to recover from the civil unrest and we are confident that it will soon restore Kenya to its position as one of the most stable and successful countries in Africa. Kenyans were delighted to see an end to the political stalemate and tension. The feeling of relief was evident among people everywhere and for the first time in weeks optimism was high as many Kenyans expressed their hopes for a better and brighter future.
Since the ending of the political crisis, things have quickly returned to normal as peace and calm have been restored. The wildlife reserves, safari camps, beach resorts and international airports had all continued operating normally throughout the crisis and the 70,000 tourists who were visiting Kenya were not affected in any way but many visitors had decided to postpone their safaris until they could be assured that peace prevailed.
Now Kenya is able to welcome visitors back with the assurance that once again they can feel confident that they will be safe and secure while on holiday in Kenya.
To welcome guests back, many safari camps, among them all four Porini Camps are offering great value safaris, representing big savings on the usual prices.
Porini offers two great value safaris for travel in June: Staying at the Porini Camps in Selenkay, Amboseli, Laikipia and the Masai Mara.
6 nights / 7 days PORINI WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE US$1850 per person
8 nights / 9 days BIRDS AND BIG GAME SAFARI US$2299 per person
* Accommodation are in spacious and comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms
* Day and Night Game drives in open-sided 4x4 safari vehicles
* Highly experienced professional safari guides
* Sundowners at scenic viewing points
* Escorted walks with Maasai guides and visit to Maasai village
* All meals, house wines, local beers, gin & tonics, soft drinks and mineral water
* All internal flights & park/conservancy fees
* Valid for travel in June only
* Valid for bookings confirmed and paid by May 15th 2008
Porini camps are small and exclusive, so there is limited space available. I recommend that you book now if you are looking for a super value safari to some of Africa's finest wildlife reserves, with prices for 7 days starting at $1850 per person inclusive of local flights, transport, all meals and drinks, and a host of activities including escorted walks, sundowners, authentic Maasai village visit, game drives in 4x4 vehicles with our excellent guides and night drives to see the nocturnal animals.
June is a good time to visit as the parks will be green after the rains and many of the animals will have given birth to coincide with the availability of lush grazing. This is also a time when there are likely to be fewer visitors in the parks before the high season and school holiday period of July, August and September.
Kenya's tourism industry plays a vital role in creating jobs and livelihoods for Kenyans and visitors always receive a warm welcome from the moment they arrive. By choosing a holiday in Kenya in June you will be helping the country to get back to normal so you will find you are especially welcome!
Please call or email me if you need any more information and I will be delighted to assist in arranging your safari or beach holiday in Kenya.
Kristina at 206-297-7179 or toll free 877-297-7179
Friday, February 29, 2008
Peace has been restored in Kenya
Kenya Tourist
Board Update
On Recent Events
Over The Contested
Kenya’s 2007
Presidential Election
Current as of February 28, 2008
Kenya tourism officials are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of visitors to the country. In order to keep the traveling public up-to-date on the situation on ground in Kenya, we are sending out continual updates on the current state of affairs within the country with regard to the tourism infrastructure.
Thursday 28th February 2008, 11 p.m. Nairobi
POLITICAL UPDATE:
Today was a momentous occasion in Kenya’s history as the news flashed around the world that an agreement had been signed between the two Kenyan political leaders, President Kibaki and Hon Odinga, to end the political impasse following the disputed elections two months ago and to restore peace and harmony to the country.
The agreement was the result of a five-hour meeting today attended by President Kikwete of Tanzania who is the current Chairman of the African Union, and Mr Kofi Annan who has performed the role of mediator, with the participation of both President Kibaki and Hon Raila Odinga.
At a press conference called this afternoon in Nairobi following the successful conclusion of the meeting, Kofi Annan announced that a power-sharing agreement had been achieved. The political settlement agreed upon by both party leaders has created the new post of Prime Minister, to be held by Raila Odinga, with a coalition government of the two main parties in which cabinet posts would be shared between them. Parliament will convene next Thursday to pass a constitutional amendment to approve the changes agreed upon.
Speaking after the signing of the agreement, President Kibaki said, "As a nation there are more issues that unite than divide us. We've been reminded we must do all in our power to safeguard the peace that is the foundation of our national unity. Kenya has room for all of us if we can enhance peace and tolerance. Fellow Kenyans, we stand before you to give a solemn commitment."
Raila Odinga thanked Kofi Annan for his role in achieving the historic agreement. He also recognised Mr Kibaki as President. He stated that although they had been competitors during the elections they were now fellow countrymen. "In the past two months, Kenyans have known nothing but sadness," he said. "We have now opened a new chapter in our history, from the era of confrontation to the beginning of cooperation. We should ensure that Kenyans begin to celebrate and love each other, that we destroy the monster that is called ethnicity. I will ensure that what we have developed today will succeed."
The power-sharing agreement at last brings the two opposing sides together in a coalition government on terms agreeable to all. It has provided the political solution which had been sought to allow the country to recover from the trauma and civil unrest which followed the announcement of the election results.
Kenyans throughout the country were celebrating this evening and hopes are high that this political settlement will restore Kenya to its position as one of the most stable and successful countries in Africa. All the indications are that the overwhelming majority of Kenyans are delighted to see an end to the political stalemate and tension. The feeling of relief was evident among people everywhere and for the first time in weeks optimism was high as many Kenyans expressed their hopes for a better future.
Kenya tourism officials are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of visitors to the country. In order to keep the traveling public up-to-date on the situation on ground in Kenya, we are sending out continual updates on the current state of affairs within the country with regard to the tourism infrastructure.
Thursday 28th February 2008, 11 p.m. Nairobi
POLITICAL UPDATE:
Today was a momentous occasion in Kenya’s history as the news flashed around the world that an agreement had been signed between the two Kenyan political leaders, President Kibaki and Hon Odinga, to end the political impasse following the disputed elections two months ago and to restore peace and harmony to the country.
The agreement was the result of a five-hour meeting today attended by President Kikwete of Tanzania who is the current Chairman of the African Union, and Mr Kofi Annan who has performed the role of mediator, with the participation of both President Kibaki and Hon Raila Odinga.
At a press conference called this afternoon in Nairobi following the successful conclusion of the meeting, Kofi Annan announced that a power-sharing agreement had been achieved. The political settlement agreed upon by both party leaders has created the new post of Prime Minister, to be held by Raila Odinga, with a coalition government of the two main parties in which cabinet posts would be shared between them. Parliament will convene next Thursday to pass a constitutional amendment to approve the changes agreed upon.
Speaking after the signing of the agreement, President Kibaki said, "As a nation there are more issues that unite than divide us. We've been reminded we must do all in our power to safeguard the peace that is the foundation of our national unity. Kenya has room for all of us if we can enhance peace and tolerance. Fellow Kenyans, we stand before you to give a solemn commitment."
Raila Odinga thanked Kofi Annan for his role in achieving the historic agreement. He also recognised Mr Kibaki as President. He stated that although they had been competitors during the elections they were now fellow countrymen. "In the past two months, Kenyans have known nothing but sadness," he said. "We have now opened a new chapter in our history, from the era of confrontation to the beginning of cooperation. We should ensure that Kenyans begin to celebrate and love each other, that we destroy the monster that is called ethnicity. I will ensure that what we have developed today will succeed."
The power-sharing agreement at last brings the two opposing sides together in a coalition government on terms agreeable to all. It has provided the political solution which had been sought to allow the country to recover from the trauma and civil unrest which followed the announcement of the election results.
Kenyans throughout the country were celebrating this evening and hopes are high that this political settlement will restore Kenya to its position as one of the most stable and successful countries in Africa. All the indications are that the overwhelming majority of Kenyans are delighted to see an end to the political stalemate and tension. The feeling of relief was evident among people everywhere and for the first time in weeks optimism was high as many Kenyans expressed their hopes for a better future.
SECURITY SITUATION IN KENYA:
The security situation throughout Kenya was calm and peaceful in all areas with a mood of relief and celebration following the announcement of the power-sharing agreement.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The U.S. State Department has updated travel information for Americans travelling to Kenya on their website. For more information please visit http://www.travel.state.gov/. Additionally, travellers can visit the U.S. Embassy site in Nairobi at http://www.kenya.usembassy.gov/. Please be sure to monitor the situation on all fronts, as the situation is fluid and can change at any time. The KTB strongly urges travelers and travel suppliers to make informed decisions based upon all the information that is available on Kenya’s state-of-affairs by continually checking with all available informed sources. As always, all U.S. travelers into Kenya should register themselves through the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi at: http://travelregistration.state.gov/.
We will advise if there are any changes in the situation in Kenya, but at present, we continue to welcome North American travelers and all tourism infrastructure units are operating as normal. We are monitoring the situation carefully and will continue to distribute updates on the status of this situation if changes arise. For additional information, please contact the Kenya Tourist Board at 866-44-KENYA / infousa@magicalkenya.com. Updates can be accessed on http://www.magicalkenya.com/
Thursday, January 31, 2008
New Passport fees take effect February 1, 2008
U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman For Immediate Release
Passport Fee Schedule Starting February 1, 2008
Beginning February 1, 2008, the Department of State will institute a new fee schedule for passport services. At this time applicants will also have the option of pre-ordering a new Passport Card, a low cost, limited use (land and sea only) alternative to the Passport Book designed for those living along the border. In addition, the age for which both parents must appear and sign a passport application on behalf of a child will increase from 14 to 16 years old.
Fees are being adjusted to cover the cost of providing efficient and secure passport services including infrastructure, technology and staff. The Passport Execution fee collected by passport acceptance centers and U.S. consular sections abroad is being reduced from $30 to $25.
Current Passport Application Fee $67 /Child $52
Current Execution Fee $30 / Child $30
Current Total Fee $97 / Child $82
New Passport Application Fee $75 / Child $60
New Execution Fee $25 / Child $25
New Total Fee $100 /Child $85
New Passport Card Adult Application $20
New Passport Card Child Application $10
New Execution Fee Adult and Child $25
New Adult Passport Card Total Fee $45 / Child $35
Passport Renewal Adult $75
To protect children from abduction, and to address concerns regarding runaway children, beginning February 1, both parents will be required to personally appear at a passport acceptance facility, passport agency or U.S. consular section abroad with minor applicants under the age of 16 (up from age 14) and sign the application.
New application forms and updated information on applying for a Passport and Passport Card will be available February 1 at http://travel.state.gov/passport
Office of the Spokesman For Immediate Release
Passport Fee Schedule Starting February 1, 2008
Beginning February 1, 2008, the Department of State will institute a new fee schedule for passport services. At this time applicants will also have the option of pre-ordering a new Passport Card, a low cost, limited use (land and sea only) alternative to the Passport Book designed for those living along the border. In addition, the age for which both parents must appear and sign a passport application on behalf of a child will increase from 14 to 16 years old.
Fees are being adjusted to cover the cost of providing efficient and secure passport services including infrastructure, technology and staff. The Passport Execution fee collected by passport acceptance centers and U.S. consular sections abroad is being reduced from $30 to $25.
Current Passport Application Fee $67 /Child $52
Current Execution Fee $30 / Child $30
Current Total Fee $97 / Child $82
New Passport Application Fee $75 / Child $60
New Execution Fee $25 / Child $25
New Total Fee $100 /Child $85
New Passport Card Adult Application $20
New Passport Card Child Application $10
New Execution Fee Adult and Child $25
New Adult Passport Card Total Fee $45 / Child $35
Passport Renewal Adult $75
To protect children from abduction, and to address concerns regarding runaway children, beginning February 1, both parents will be required to personally appear at a passport acceptance facility, passport agency or U.S. consular section abroad with minor applicants under the age of 16 (up from age 14) and sign the application.
New application forms and updated information on applying for a Passport and Passport Card will be available February 1 at http://travel.state.gov/passport
Sunday, December 30, 2007
New rules from TSA regarding lithium batteries begin on Jan 01, 2008
http://safetravel.dot.gov/whats_new_batteries.html
Effective January 1, 2008, the following rules apply to the spare lithium batteries you carry with you in case the battery in a device runs low:
Effective January 1, 2008, the following rules apply to the spare lithium batteries you carry with you in case the battery in a device runs low:
- Spare batteries are the batteries you carry separately from the devices they power. When batteries are installed in a device, they are not considered spare batteries.
- You may not pack a spare lithium battery in your checked baggage
- You may bring spare lithium batteries with you in carry-on baggage – see our spare battery tips and how-to sections to find out how to pack spare batteries safely!
- Even though we recommend carrying your devices with you in carry-on baggage as well, if you must bring one in checked baggage, you may check it with the batteries installed.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Happy New Year 2008
From the North Cape to the South Cape and in between
The year that was - 2007
As year 2007 comes to a close I can’t help but think of what a great year it was and how much I learned and how fortunate I am to be in the travel business. I hope you had a great year too.
Did you know that it’s possible to visit both the North Cape and the South Cape in the same year? I was fortunate enough to do just that in 2007. How you ask: Well, let me tell you briefly -
In May, I escorted a group of 27 people to Norway and we cruised on the Finnmarken, one of 12 Hurtigruten ships that plow the coast of Norway every day of the year all the way from Bergen to Kirkenes on the Russian border. AND, we had gorgeous weather!! I took this picture (left) of the monument at the North Cape close to Honningsvåg, Norway on May 25, 2007.
Exactly 3 months later, I stood at the Cape of Good Hope monument at the South Cape close to Cape Town, South Africa. I was in Cape Town to attend a conference. I’m at the end.
In between my travels took me from tracking gorillas in Rwanda & Uganda (last Christmas), Tahiti, Botswana, Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island in Canada, Estes Park in Colorado for a family reunion, Kenya & Tanzania and for my birthday on 07/07/07 in Barcelona, Spain to Rome, Italy on the Wind Surf, a sailing cruise ship. You can follow my travels in pictures on my website – http://www.winwinvacations.com/
One of the Best books I read in 2007: “Nomads of the Serengeti” by Robyn Stewart; a photographic odyssey about the extraordinary mass migration of wildlife that takes place each year in Tanzania.
My most memorable meal in 2007: A bush dinner in Botswana when a hyena appeared out of the dark and helped herself from a plate at our table.
For the New Year to be ... 2008 .... What to expect?
The best blog (with your help) on the web in 2008 will be: http://kristinasafari.blogspot.com/
This is an inter-active blog so please write your comment there and post pictures of your journeys; but most importantly - share information and advice. Let’s make this a living blog!
To make life easier in 2008: Call me for your vacation travel planning.
My Best Advice for 2008: Go on a safari.
Next Best Advise for 2008, if you can’t go on a safari: Visit my Blog every day.
My Wish for a Happy New Year 2008: Lots of adventures for everyone!
Kristina Trowbridge
WinWin Vacations, Africa Safari Specialist
Call 206-297-7179 or email WinWinVacations@comcast.net
The year that was - 2007
As year 2007 comes to a close I can’t help but think of what a great year it was and how much I learned and how fortunate I am to be in the travel business. I hope you had a great year too.
Did you know that it’s possible to visit both the North Cape and the South Cape in the same year? I was fortunate enough to do just that in 2007. How you ask: Well, let me tell you briefly -
In May, I escorted a group of 27 people to Norway and we cruised on the Finnmarken, one of 12 Hurtigruten ships that plow the coast of Norway every day of the year all the way from Bergen to Kirkenes on the Russian border. AND, we had gorgeous weather!! I took this picture (left) of the monument at the North Cape close to Honningsvåg, Norway on May 25, 2007.
Exactly 3 months later, I stood at the Cape of Good Hope monument at the South Cape close to Cape Town, South Africa. I was in Cape Town to attend a conference. I’m at the end.
In between my travels took me from tracking gorillas in Rwanda & Uganda (last Christmas), Tahiti, Botswana, Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island in Canada, Estes Park in Colorado for a family reunion, Kenya & Tanzania and for my birthday on 07/07/07 in Barcelona, Spain to Rome, Italy on the Wind Surf, a sailing cruise ship. You can follow my travels in pictures on my website – http://www.winwinvacations.com/
One of the Best books I read in 2007: “Nomads of the Serengeti” by Robyn Stewart; a photographic odyssey about the extraordinary mass migration of wildlife that takes place each year in Tanzania.
My most memorable meal in 2007: A bush dinner in Botswana when a hyena appeared out of the dark and helped herself from a plate at our table.
For the New Year to be ... 2008 .... What to expect?
The best blog (with your help) on the web in 2008 will be: http://kristinasafari.blogspot.com/
This is an inter-active blog so please write your comment there and post pictures of your journeys; but most importantly - share information and advice. Let’s make this a living blog!
To make life easier in 2008: Call me for your vacation travel planning.
My Best Advice for 2008: Go on a safari.
Next Best Advise for 2008, if you can’t go on a safari: Visit my Blog every day.
My Wish for a Happy New Year 2008: Lots of adventures for everyone!
Kristina Trowbridge
WinWin Vacations, Africa Safari Specialist
Call 206-297-7179 or email WinWinVacations@comcast.net
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Welcome to my blog
I am Kristina and I love elephants, cheetah's and African safaris. This is my specialty - I sell safaris. My agency is WinWin Vacations and you can find it on the web here http://www.winwinvacations.com/
I also have a website dedicated to entirely to Africa at http://www.kristinasafari.com/
Hopefully you will choose to book your safari with me. I'm knowledgeable about safaris and I travel frequently to keep current. Why don't you join one of my escorted journeys or get a few friends to go with you and I'll escort your group.
Contact me at 206-297-7179 or toll-free at 877-297-7179.
Welcome to my blog.
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