February 2003 Travel Newsletter

Latest air travel news for travelers
There are lots of changes going on for air travelers as airports implement new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations and airlines struggle to maintain their profitability.  We have encountered some of these changes on our recent trips and everything goes much smoother if you are aware of them before you arrive at the airport.

- All fliers must now check in before going to departure gates.  You will need a boarding pass (and a picture ID) to get through any security checkpoints.  You can no longer get through with an e-ticket printout and then check in at your departure gate as you once could, even if you only have carry-on bags.  Many airlines are implementing computerized, self-service check-in kiosks and/or “carry-on only” check-in lines to help speed up the check-in process for passengers who are not checking baggage.

- All checked baggage is now security screened (after it has been checked).  Bags flagged by bomb- detection machines will be subject to hand searches.  Check out our Packing Tips for suggestions on how to pack to help reduce the chances that your luggage will be opened and hand searched.

- Some airlines have lowered the bag weight limits on domestic flights requiring extra baggage fees.  United Airlines has just announced that any checked bag weighing 50 pounds or more will now be subject to a $25 overweight fee.  (The previous fee was $80 for bags over 70 pounds.)  American Airlines has also announced that it will charge $25 for bags weighing from 50 – 70 pounds, and $50 for bags weighing from 70 – 100 pounds.  Other airlines may follow.  This is another reason for all of us to start packing right and packing light.
Language Classes
Brush up on your language skills before your next trip!  Both Traveler’s Italian and Traveler's Spanish classes start Tuesday, February 11th, from 7:00 to 8:30 and run on Tuesday evenings for six consecutive weeks.  The cost is just $79.95 and class size is limited, so call (303) 786-8406 or stop by our store to reserve your place.
February Travel Programs
Wednesday, February 5th - Travel Medical Clinic
Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, this clinic will help you prepare for your next international trip.  You'll get the latest information on immunization requirements, health risks and travel precautions.
Wednesday, February 12th - Italy!
From the world renown cuisine to the art and architecture, from the beauty of mountains, hills and beaches to the history and culture of the cities, Italy keeps travelers fascinated, spellbound,.... and wanting to eat more!  Ciao!
Wednesday, February 19th - Ghana
Experience Ghana, a country with diverse natural attractions, from a beautiful coastline with the old slave forts, to tropical forests, to wildlife viewing in the Northern Savanna.  Free of mass tourism, Ghana is a fascinating country with friendly, laid back people who warmly welcome visitors.
Wednesday, February 26th - Thailand
Experience the best of Thailand -- its natural beauty, stunning artistic achievements, wonderful cuisine and gracious, joyful people.  You will trek among the hill tribe people, do a bit of elephant riding and bamboo rafting, and then head south to explore the rainforest and canoe amidst majestic limestone karst islands visiting pristine sandy beaches.   ** Join us on a Changes In Latitude Adventure Trip to Thailand in November 2003 **
Suggested Reading
"The Practical Nomad: How To Travel Around The World"  by Edward Hasbrouck, published by Avalon Travel.   This is both a useful and complete handbook for anyone planning an extended international trip to explore the world.  It covers getting time off, planning and preparation, tips on choosing routes and destinations, airfare strategies and discounts to save you money, and guidance on travel documents and entry requirements.  The author shows you that the dream of world travel is attainable by everyone.
Just For Fun
You know you are traveling on a “no-frills” airline when…
- All the insurance machines in the terminal are sold out.
- You can’t board the plane unless you have the exact change.
- All the planes have both a bathroom and a chapel.
- When they pull the steps away, the plane starts rocking.
- The Captain asks all the passengers to chip in a little for gas.
- Before the flight, the passengers get together and elect a pilot.
- Any man with a gun is demanding to be let off the plane.
- The Captain yells at the ground crew to get the cows off the runway.
Newsletter Subscriptions
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"A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike."
    - John Steinbeck
Happy Travels!
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phone: 303-786-8406     fax: (303) 786-8408
e-mail: adventure@cil.com
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