Want to Get Away? Hit the Road!

Yes, I know. The last, fleeting moments of Summer are easing out of our system; being replaced by the beauty of Fall.

It is an antsy time of year for me, because the weather is still nice, and all I want to do is jump in the car and let my foot hit the pedal and cruise off someplace fun and exciting.

Road trips are cathartic and allow you to become one with yourself. It is a time to mentally begin  preparation for the (soon to arrive) holiday season. These are the last vestiges of sanity before we are catapulted into the pressure filled months of November, December and lest not forget, "Resolution January."

If there is one last personal trip you would like to take before the end of the year, I recommend you packing up a little overnight bag and hitting the road. Enjoy these last moments of Summer - any way you like!

*photo used from: http://farm1.static.flickr.com/49/187143609_d213a66874.jpg

www.chicksthattrip.com

Part 23 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Part 23 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Misleading information seems to be par for the course in many industries. There are "teaser rates" in the credit card industry; unbelievable car deals at the car dealerships (which turns out to be one car at their deep discounted price); and the "out of this world" airfare rates. No wonder people are so confused when they are researching a product or service.

In relationship to the travel world, there are some things that truly are "too good to be true," and also in the realm of, "you get what you pay for." Some of the companies with discounted prices are not intentionally trying to be misleading, but in an ad, there is only so much space, so some information has to be left out; therefore, when a person on the East coast sees an ad for a deeply discounted flight to say, Hawaii, but then they call and find out the price is three times the ad price, it makes the person scratch their head and automatically think they are getting duped.

The reality is (using the aforementioned example), given the geographic location where someone lives, their flights to certain destinations may be more or less than someone else in another geographic area. Case in point, a person (typically) flying from the West coast, can oftentimes get a better price on a flight to Hawaii, than a person flying from farther away in the Midwest, or from the East. Just like you will see there are sometimes better (direct) flights from New York to London, than anywhere else in the country. The time of year you travel also plays a large part in pricing for certain destinations (Mexico in the Winter, Europe in the Summer), as well as just plain ole' "supply and demand." When you work with a travel professional, if there is flexibility within your travels, they are able to ask  the right questions that will assist them in making the best recommendations for you and your travel needs.

• Help, I’m Lost!!!!!! - If you should get lost somewhere along the way your travel agent could be a good outlet for help. 
• It just Makes Sense to Use a Travel Agent! 
• They’re There… Use Them - Why do the work if someone else like a travel specialist can. 
• Possibility of a Free Gift - Some travel agents offer free incentives. Who doesn’t like the possibility of free presents?
  
• Even if the Internet Goes Down Your Trip Can Still Be Planned -Your travel agent is still getting your trip planned even if your internet at home or at the office is not working.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents 

www.chicksthattrip.com

Nostalgia: Remembering When Air Travel Was Glamorous

Nostalgia: Remembering When Air Travel Was Glamorous

It is hard to imagine that there was ever a time when air travel was glamorous, but it was, many moons ago. This hearkening back to the by gone days of travel was precipitated by a commercial I saw, advertising a new show that will be airing soon on ABC called, Pan AM. I must confess, while I do not watch a lot of television (barring my sports and food shows), I am curious to see how, and what this show will depict in respect to air travel, but more importantly, I wonder if the show will have any (positive) impacts on the airlines, as well as for those who travel? Maybe I am expecting too much. (Added 9/20/2011 - link to ABC's video of Real Pan Am Stewardesses: http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/pan-am/real-stewardesses/part-1).

In that same vein, I happened to catch the end of How to Marry a Millionaire, with the divine Marilyn Monroe. One of the scenes depicted Marilyn portraying the near-sighted character, Pola Debevoise. Pola accidentally mistook a plane to Kansas City, instead of Atlantic City (since she refused to wear her glasses). What caught my attention in the humorous scene was the fact that everyone was dressed to the nines. Clearly, I realize it is a movie; therefore, it would not be probable given the setting, and the age the film was created, that there would be anybody on the plane with flip flops on; however, I found myself longing for that type of glamorous travel too. The kind where people are polite; the planes are not smashed with people like a can of human sardines; the flight attendants appear to actually enjoy their jobs (excluding Southwest employees, who seem to enjoy their jobs), and the food is edible. Did I just say food? Yeah, I know, good luck with that!


My intention is not to say that I think we should be parading around in ball gowns and three-piece suits during our travels, and goodness knows that given the TSA requirements now days, less clothing would probably be better - from their point of view, but I digress. I simply found myself wishing that the days of air travel were easy and unencumbered like they were years ago. Obviously I know numerous things have transpired that have necessitated these changes, and anything that has to do with my safety, I am definitely embracing. But, there are those times I recall when I was very young, traveling on a plane with my mother in the early 80's, flying to Washington D.C. (in 1st Class), enjoying a bowl of raspberry sorbet with chocolate sauce, and looking around the cabin at all of the business travelers, and even then, a lot of people dressed up for their travels. There also was an unspoken etiquette that permeated the air. There was no pushing, shoving, hovering, or just plain rudeness that has become commonplace in today's air travel.

I often fantasize about having my own private jet. Yes, it's a luxury and decadence I will likely not see in my lifetime, but I can still dream. Needless to say, despite the air portion of travel (which I'm well seasoned at), I still enjoy traveling, and look forward to doing some more before the year ends, and also to start getting ramped up for the destinations I will embark upon for 2012!

www.chicksthattrip.com

Complete the Survey for Sanctuary Camelback Mountain in the Condé Nast "Reader's Choice Award"

I must confess, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain is one of this Chicks most favorite places to stay and play (and if you've read this blog before, then you probably already know this).

They have been nominated, so they would appreciate our votes so they can secure this win! Also, as an added incentive, if you vote, you might even win a luxurious Crystal Cruise for two by answering the survey - what can it hurt? Follow this link to cast your vote: http://www.concierge.com/cntraveler/articles/503569

www.chicksthattrip.com

Part 22 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

 

Part 22 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

As a part of the travel professional community, we all seem to live by that old saying about "the best laid plans," because sometimes, even the best preparation can not dictate what the weather will be like in a certain destination; if there will be civil unrest; and any other oddity that can occur while traveling. The reality of the matter is that we really have very little control over most circumstances, so it's imperative to control those aspects of travel we have control over: reserving accommodations, booking an airline ticket vs. going standby and "hoping" everything will go as planned, packing reasonably and maintaining your own level of sanity throughout the process. 

A vacation should be a relaxing, fun, and inspirational experience. When you work with a travel professional, they want you to have the best time as well, and will work hard to ensure that your trip is everything, if not more than what you expected!

• Someone to Complain to - If that slim chance were to occur that you do not get what you were promised, you have a real person to go back and complain to. Travel agents will work hard to rectify the matter. They will work as hard as they can to make sure you are happy so that this doesn’t happen and so you will use their service next time.

• They Are Considered Travel Experts and Specialists - Wouldn’t you rather have a travel expert plan your trip rather than a pre-programmed website?

• Best Pre-Seat Assignments Possible -Travel agents can talk directly with the airline to arrange for you to get the seats with the most leg room that might not otherwise be released until the day of the flight. (*Although, if you book your own reservations, oftentimes travel agents are unable to handle any changes since the airlines have become much more strict in their handling of changes, and we all know about the fees - just an fyi from That Chick Té).

•   Mapping Routes Out Ahead of Time - Not really good at reading maps? A good travel expert can help you map out any basic directions you might need on your trip ahead of time.

•   Family with 3 Small Children and Only Want 1 Room? - A travel expert might be able to find a way to help a family with small children get around the hotel policies of only 4 to a room.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

www.chicksthattrip.com

Thoughts for London...

Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of those residing in, and traveling through the areas that were/are a part of the civil unrest.

Chicks That Trip

*photo used from: http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2169/2126740570_2eb419b206.jpg

Keeping Up With the In Crowd

Keeping Up With the In Crowd

 There is a never ending amount of information out there in cyber space. Sometimes it can be overwhelming and time consuming to figure out just what you should, and want to read in order to stay "in the know." I get asked a lot by people who know that I blog and do other freelance writing, "Who/what do you read?"

I'll be the first to admit that I am selective about what I sign up for, because my in box is already stuffed to the gills with items I have to read; therefore, anything I read for enjoyment is fairly limited.  With that being said, I'll share just a few of my favorite sites that I have signed up for:

• Reign (www.denverreign.com) - This is a newly re-launched site by Betsy Martin. Her website is hip, cheeky, sleek and definitely one that I look forward to reading when it's delivered to my in-box on Tuesday & Thursday. That is one of its benefits; I am not inundated by daily emails. Their delivery method is twice a week, and the information is fresh, interesting and in tune with the type of lifestyle I like to live.
• Tasting Table (www.tastingtable.com) - Yes, we all know I love food,  so it would go without saying that one of my favorite websites is Tasting Table. They send information on everything food related. It can be about a new chocolate bar infused with Scotch; to a new Chef who has launched a new cook book; farmers' markets around the U.S., and everything in between.
• Urban Daddy (www.urbandaddy.com) - Urban Daddy provides timely information about what is going on in select cities of the U.S., like D.C., New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. Whether it's a new art gallery opening; an innovative new restaurant on the scene; or information on businesses that serve your every whim, Urban Daddy is one of my premier sites to find out what's going on in some of the areas I enjoy and/or frequently travel.

If you have never heard of these sites before, I would recommend you take a cruise through and check out what's going on so you stay "in the know" too!

*photo taken by That Chick Té

www.chicksthattrip.com

Always Time to Eat, Drink and Be Merry - TAG Restaurant - Larimer Sq. - Denver, CO

I love to have friends come and visit me, because that gives me a reason to try out new restaurants and bars. Not to say I need any encouragement, but it's always fun to experience a great place with a friend.

Bar @ TAG Restaurant - Denver, CO

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of one of my friends visiting me, and let  me tell you, we ate, drank and were extremely merry! We didn't cause a raucous or anything, but we enjoyed ourselves immensely.

In order for us to be able to partake of libations, we decided to stay downtown. Everything is close and in walking distance, so that was an easy decision to make, plus our hotel at the Westin, had a great pool to lay out on...come on, life just does not get better than that...or can it?

Mini Chicken Tacos (yum!)

There were a few places I took my friend to, where I had been before, (some of which are my favorite haunts). On Friday evening, we strolled into TAG restaurant during their "Social Hour." My friend had a "Black Rose" (which she loved) and I just had a simple vodka tonic, but as you can see from the picture above, the bartenders here are mixologist! The muddler was working hard that evening, as our bartender mixed up a bevy of cocktails. While the drinks were delicious, our food was absolutely fantastic! I had the appetizer of chicken tacos, and my friend had some delicately, exquisite sushi rolls. I can not begin to tell you the joy my mouth felt as I took in the delicious mini bites of tacos. The chicken was chopped small and crispy, served with shredded napa cabbage, a light sauce (of some sort) and a slice of avocado. While it may sound simplistic and easy (which I'm sure is what they are going for), the taste was big, bold and in your face. We did not stay there for dinner, but I assured our bartender that TAG would now be on my rotation of restaurants to go to on a regular basis.

The atmosphere  is laid back; although, some may consider it a bit foo, foo...I revel in foo foo, so it worked just fine for me. Also, it seems they have a sense of humor too, as the decor is sleek and contemporary with beautiful lighting; yet, fun and interesting paintings on the wall.

We ate at more places during the course of the weekend such as, Snooze, a delightful breakfast joint that is oh, so, worth the hour long wait (I'll be showcasing them in the future). Also, Rioja, again, this will be its own write-up as the food there was divine and intoxicating, and is well deserving of its own kudos. All in all, we had a great time and relaxed. Ah, for the lovely summer days!

*photos provided by that Chick Té

www.chicksthattrip.com

Part 21 of Series: 101Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Part 21 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

There has been a lot of chatter in the news and in the Travel Professional community about travel to Mexico. I am not going to belabor the point, because I know it is a "hot button" topic; however, I did want to show my support regarding travel to Mexico, and in so doing, here is a link to a site that is requesting support for Mexico travel: http://signon.org/sign/mexico-matters.fb1?source=s.fb&r_by=366690.

Many points have been discussed within the travel community regarding our responsibility to advise our clients on the pros and cons of any travel destinations; not just to Mexico. While there is sufficient reason to be alarmed regarding some of the news we've been hearing, there is also another side, and to that point, many agents that reside in Mexico (year round or part of the year), have been vocal about the misleading information in the news, although conceding that there are some areas that are dangerous; however, there are dangerous areas in every major city throughout the world, and I always recommend to my clients to be aware of their surroundings and exercise good judgment whether they are in New York City, or Amsterdam.

  

What to Pack - Your travel expert can give you great advice on what to pack to those exotic destinations.
Plan a Trip Where you Bring the Kids but Can Still Get Some Alone Time - Many cruises and resorts now offer activities throughout the day for young children that make the day fun for them and give you some time to yourself. Travel experts can help you find great family destination options such as these.
Higher Productivity Benefits - You have your trip planned while you are hard at work in the office.
You Get to be the Boss - You get to tell someone what to do for a change (politely).
Great Group Trips - Trying to organize a trip for big group of people? A travel expert can help get all the details finalized and do the work of updating everyone in the group.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

www.chicksthattrip.com

Stress Reducing Your Travel!

 

Stress Reducing Your Travel!

It's that time of year again, where anxious travelers all over the world are gearing up for their holiday travel. The air in their houses is thick with the anticipation of a new adventure; beach lounging; hiking; surfing; gallery hopping; browsing, or just plain relaxing. Having done a fair amount of travel in my life, I can say this with great certainty, the way you start your trip is likely an indication of the rest of your trip. NOW, with that being said, I am not saying a trip that starts out a bit whacky can't be improved, or a trip that started out great can't go down hill; however, from my experience, your trip begins before  you even leave your house. If there is a lot of stress prior to your vacation, I can tell you that the probability of you encountering stress throughout your vacation is inevitable. When people are stressed, they are unable to relax, and such, any derailment (no matter how small), is given greater importance; versus if that person were relaxed, and simply took the inconvenience with stride and let it "roll off their back."

Consider this a quick "tune up" for your travels throughout the remainder of this year. None of the tips I am providing are new, nor are they anything you likely haven't heard before, but if I can impart any tiny bit of wisdom and save at least one person from a stressful travel experience - well then, my work is done!

These tips are in no particular order, but I've found that most of my travel experiences are relatively stress free because I do not worry about anything I have no control over, such as flying the plane, the weather...you catch my drift.

• Pack ONLY what you absolutely need - really! Pull out whatever you THINK you might want to take on your trip and reduce it by almost half.
• Eat a small breakfast, lunch or dinner (depending on the time of your travel) - this helps to keep you energized, as well as keeping you from eating all of the horrible items posing as "food" that are available at the airports. And with that being said, take along some healthy snacks. A few nutrition bars, dried fruits, nuts and an apple are small, compact, and easy to stuff into little pockets on backpacks and in handbags. 
• While not always possible, get some rest before your trip - you'll need it.
• Make sure you have a small first aid kit available that contains band-aids, gauze, antiseptic, pepto bismol (tablets only, not liquid form so you can place it in your carry-on) and any prescription medications you may need, and make sure you keep them in their prescription bottles - just in case.
• Bring two good books to read. You can buy some from the airport, but if there is a book you have just been hankering to read, bring it with you; trust me, you'll have plenty of time to read.
• Which leads me to this point. NOTHING kicks off a vacation the wrong way than arriving to the airport late and having to RUN at break neck speed through the airport in HOPES you can make your flight. I know that I am one of those freakish people who arrives creepily early, but truly, it reduces so much stress because you are there, through security, and don't have to worry. Yes, flights are sometimes canceled and/or delayed, but if you are there early and they begin locating flights to redistribute the passengers on, you are there, and will have the highest probability of getting on the next available flight to get  you where you need to go, with the least amount of pain.
• Finally - SMILE, you're going on vacation!

*photo used from: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3159/2868884619_932b4362fc.jpg

www.chicksthattrip.com