Traveling in the colder weather can sometimes be a hassle. You end up packing way too many bulky items, having to pay for extra baggage, and dragging a lot of extra things around with you. On the contrary, you may under-pack and end up searching your unfamiliar destination trying to find the things you should have brought in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you decide what is necessary.

If you need your entire set of heavy winter gear, wear it on the plane. Bulky coat, scarf, gloves, hat or whatever else keeps you warm and cozy will take up so much room if you pack them. Wear your boots as your shoes will take up much less room in your bag.

If you use space bags when traveling you can fit so many more items. You know, the kind you vacuum the air out of? These are also available for travel and you don’t need the vacuum. Just roll the item up inside and the air will squeeze out. You will be able to fit many more things this way.

Super heavy winter jackets can cost a bundle, not to mention the space they take up. If you layer properly, you won’t need that bulky coat. Pack a long sleeve shirt, sweatshirt to wear over top, light sweater or jacket to cover that, and something to cover the whole ensemble such as a waterproof or windproof jacket that will keep you dry and hold in all that warmth.

Layering helps keep down the wash loads as well, as you won’t need to keep throwing things in the wash as much as you will in warmer, humid weather. Be sure to try to keep within the same colors so your layering will work out no matter what you choose.

If you plan to be outside in the colder weather, thermal underwear is great for keeping the legs warm and cozy under your pants. If you have never worn them, check it out. They are a life saver for that cold air.

When packing socks, try to steer clear of the cotton socks. Instead pack wool, fleece or other synthetic type socks that hold their insulation even when wet.

They will keep you warm and dry no matter what. When you pack these items you can always roll them up and stick them inside shoes to save even more room.

A few final items that many people don’t even consider if they are headed to a snowy destination are sunglasses and sunscreen. Yes even though it is cold, the sun can still bring pain to your skin, as can the bitter cold winds you might encounter. Windburn can hurt just as bad. The bright glare that results when the sun shines on the glistening snow can be beautiful, but it can also be too bright to stand with the naked eye. Sunglasses will be a blessing in this situation. They can also help if you are driving around in the snow with the sun reflecting around you. Keep a pair handy just in case.

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Thanksgiving and Christmas are extremely busy travel times for air travelers as well as those who travel on the ground. It is common sense that you will want to book early to avoid last minute hikes in rates, and also to assure that you aren’t faced with completely full flights. Here are a few more tips to help you plan your holiday travel.

Picking the right day to fly can save you a lot of hassle and stress when the time comes for your trip. Places like TravelZoo can help you check out the best fares on literally hundreds of popular routes.

The first thing you should try to do is book the earliest flight you possibly can. Not only will the airports be less crowded and slow, but the early flights have less chance of delays since they haven’t started their routes yet. You should be able to arrive in plenty of time to enjoy family time.

Ask questions. Find out if you can upgrade to a business class seat, as business travel tends to slow down over the holidays and those seats may be empty. If you are traveling for business, you should have no problem finding something perfect.

Always choose the airport that is closest to the southern part of the country if you need to connect, as the weather will generally be better and provide you with less chance of a delay or cancellation.

Chances are you will be bringing plenty of gifts with you. This can make for plenty of extra charges for too much baggage. Consider arriving early if you can and getting in some shopping after you land. You could also purchase your items online and have them directly shipped to your destination. This way you can either bring some gift bags or wrap with you, or purchase some when you arrive for a quick wrapping session.

If you aren’t really an airplane person, but don’t want the hassle of driving, check out Amtrak or other public transportation. You can sit back, relax, and even enjoy a cocktail while you check out the scenery and avoid the stress.

Some people like to avoid all of the mad rush and just wait until Thanksgiving or Christmas morning to travel. Most people are already at their destination by this time so the roads and airports will be basically empty. Be sure to be prepared for many stores, gas stations etc. being closed.

If you remain flexible on your trip or return trip, you may be able to switch flights or wait for the next one and score big on upgrades, perks etc. Check it out!

For those who choose to extend your holiday throughout New Year’s Eve, keep in mind that there are colossal celebrations around the country. Don’t spend a fortune trying to stay in New York City or anywhere near Times Square, when you can find a much less crowded party in plenty of other places that will be just as fun.

Look forward to the holidays as a time to be with family, friends and have a relaxed memorable time, instead of worrying about the hassle you will go through to get there. Plan ahead and stay safe and stress-free.

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Business travelers have so much to deal with on a daily basis. Things like catching flights, making it to meetings and conferences on time, and dealing with delays and cancellations at the airport. Having to deal with nasty winter weather can only make your trip more difficult. Here are some tips to help keep the colder travel months stress free.

First of all you want to keep an eye on the weather in your current area and your destination. If you foresee any problems that can cause a flight cancellation or delay, you may want to make some last minute changes to your schedule.

Whether you have had your trip planned for a while or this is a last minute affair, try to be as flexible as possible so as to be able to change your flight, reroute, or otherwise avoid whatever bad weather may be in your way.

When packing for your trip be sure to keep in mind the weather of your destination. It may be warm where you are, but when you land you may be wishing you had brought a coat or jacket with you. Gloves and a hat may be necessary as well if you find yourself walking around the city at all, and even an umbrella if the weather is wet.

If you don’t need to drive yourself anywhere, don’t. Driving in a strange place can be tricky enough without adding the hazard of nasty weather. Don’t chance causing or being involved in an accident. Let a taxi, limousine or other public service get you where you need to be safely.

Be prepared for dangerous conditions causing you to be stuck where you are for a day or even longer. If the weather causes your city to shut down, make sure you are prepared with extra clothes, and try to choose an area that has a variety of accommodations to choose from in case the hotel you are in is booked up. This can be the case for a large convention or other event. Once again, keep your options open and stay flexible. Be sure you have enough work with you to keep busy in case you can’t leave on time. Or perhaps a good book if you just want to relax.

If you prefer to have all your travel needs taken care of for you, consider hiring a chauffeured limousine. They will have the best knowledge of the area, know how to deal with dangerous road conditions, and safely get you where you need to be. You can sit back and relax and do whatever business you need to do during travel time, without having to worry about anything.

Don’t let the winter weather give you the blues. You can even decide to plan ahead for an extra day or two to head to the slopes for some skiing or just enjoy some window shopping in the city itself and enjoy the snow.

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You’ve made your packing list and you are pretty sure you have everything you need for that next trip. But here are some items most travelers leave off their list that can come in extremely handy once you are on your way, or even after you reach your destination.

Grocery bags or small trash bags can come in handy for wet or dirty clothes, shampoos or things that might be in danger of leaking into your bag, or just having handy if you stop by a farmers market. These bags fit into your luggage anywhere.

Tummy medicine can be super handy if you happen to catch food poisoning, or just eat something that you are not used to from another place. Why suffer the whole way when you can have quick relief at your fingertips.

Extra battery for your laptop…just in case. It takes up little room, and you just never know when you may wish you could power up and can’t.

Allergy or medical alert info in languages others can understand. If you have a peanut allergy, or other serious issue, you want others to be able to quickly understand this in case of emergency.

Books or Movies can come in handy if you are stuck on a long flight. Don’t rely on the in-flight entertainment to keep you amused. Bring a good novel, or be sure to have movies on your laptop. Even a puzzle book can pass the time.

Sunscreen can be a lifesaver depending where you are headed. Of course if it is a hot sunny location, there will be plenty for purchase. Be warned that they will charge you three times what it is worth.

Travel Medicine/First aid kit can be a lifesaver. Keep your prescription meds, bandages etc. handy, not to mention a small sewing kit for that emergency mending you may need.

Emergency moolah is always a good idea. You may not be able to use your card, or might not find a place to get cash without paying a fortune to do so. Packing a little away in one of your checked bags is a good way to be sure you have it when you arrive.

Online Security is a must when traveling to many places, such as China or South Korea to mention a few. You will most definitely be hacked, and want to be sure anything you need safe remains safe. Don’t connect to the WiFi at all if you don’t absolutely need to. If you do, you will want to do some serious cleaning out when you return. Be sure you have the safest security you can get.

Just remember it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

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It is general knowledge that flying is faster than driving. But what about all the time spent in between leaving your house and arriving at your destination?? Arriving and departing the airport, long lines for security check, and of course the never ending luggage-go-round can take up a big portion of your travel time.

Here are some smart ideas that can improve your productivity while in flight, and get you on a great start once your flight has landed.

Above all you want to keep well hydrated during your trip. Don’t let yourself get sick by ignoring your health. Pack some healthy snacks so you don’t have to rely on the somewhat unhealthy food that may be available to you on the plane or in the airport.

Have some projects ready that you can do without being connected to the internet. You can write emails and prepare documents that can be downloaded, sent or printed once you land and save precious time.

Spend the night before your flight charging all the electronics you may need. Don’t wait till flight time to realize your phone or laptop are dead. Putting your devices into airplane mode will help you save battery power until you can land and charge up again.

Be sure to check out your surroundings on the flight. You may be seated next to a future partner, customer or mentor who can help you in the long run. Be sure to meet and greet.

Exercise whenever and wherever you can. Many airports have an exercise room or relaxing area for stretching, or an outside trail for jogging or walking. If you don’t have time for that try working out on a flight of stairs or just getting in some good leg stretches. It will help to energize you and keep you awake for what’s ahead.

Everyone knows the saying…all work and no play… this is also true for businessmen as well. If you spend a 12-hour flight doing constant work you will be worn out by the time you land. Take a break. Listen to your favorite music or play a mindless game to relax and get your thoughts off your work for a few minutes. It will help you in the long run.

Make a list of the tasks you need to complete to help keep your stress level down during flight. Jot down your basic itinerary from the time you board through your landing and try to finish them before the flight is over. This will keep you from getting to your destination only to realize you forgot the most important item on your schedule.

If you have a fear of flying for whatever reason, take the time before take-off to relax in whatever way you do best. Perhaps meditating is your thing, or playing your favorite songs. Sometimes just calling that special friend is all it takes. By the time you are in flight you will have gotten rid of the stress and be ready for some business.

If you happen to be one of those lucky people who has everything done before boarding, spend your air time relaxing and getting ready for that big meeting or presentation. You will be refreshed and ready for whatever the day sends your way.

Filed under: Travel Tips by Michelle Gushard
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New York City is one of the most popular destinations in the United States for hundreds of reasons. Enjoy fantastic New York style pizza or fine dining with some of the most famous chefs in the world. Visit famous landmarks, explore fine arts and culture around every corner. The nightlife is unlike any you will find elsewhere.

While on holiday in New York, be sure to indulge and pamper yourself with some of the best accommodations you can find. The Trump Soho New York offers you one bedroom suites, spa suites and penthouse suites to meet your every need. Designer furnishings, floor to ceiling windows and total comfort awaits you when you stay at the Trump Soho. The Penthouse suites will provide you with breathtaking views of the city, and total relaxation in marble bathrooms with floating soaking tubs.

You are just minutes from some of the finest attractions, such as the Children’s Museum of the Arts, the Soho Photo Gallery, and the New York City Fire Museum.

New York City has so much to offer everyone who visits. Young and old alike will find plenty to see and do, whether it be ascending to the top of the Empire State Building for an unforgettable view of the city or just enjoying a quiet day in Central Park.

The American Museum of Natural History is a great place to spend some extra down time. Hundreds of hands on exhibits and demonstrations are showcased throughout the museum. Learn about baby animals, stroll through the butterfly conservatory and see over 500 live butterflies flutter around the re-created tropical forest. Explore the world of the dinosaurs and the vastness of space while you learn about the future of space travel.

At the Eventi Hotel New York you can relax in total luxury. Kimpton beds with a variety of pillows will assure that you get the best night’s sleep. Marble baths with deep soaking tubs or spa tubs will rejuvenate you. Your pets are even welcome here so you don’t have to worry about leaving them behind on this business excursion. Wake and feel refreshed with the express breakfast or morning coffee and tea bar. Unwind in the evening at the hosted wine hour.

For a unique experience, visit Grand Central Terminal. Even if you are not planning to travel anywhere, the experience is a must. There is a whispering gallery, where you can whisper into the wall and be heard on the other side. The ceiling mural above the concourse is something you definitely must see. If you are a people watcher, this is the place to be. The hustle and bustle of the city is constant here, and you never know what you might see.

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Some airports want to be sure you are pampered and comfortable from the time you enter through the course of your waiting time. Here are a few that go that extra mile to make your time with them stress-free and relaxed.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
The AA Admirals Club in Terminal 4 is one of the most popular lounges in the United States for several reasons. It is very spacious, with comfortable seating. They have a separate children’s play area so that you won’t have to be bothered with the sound of children playing if you are trying to relax or get some work done. They have good food available so you can have a hot meal, and the helpful, caring staff will assure you that you have what you need. Take a shower to refresh yourself, or just relax and watch the planes take off and land. If you get tired of always searching for power outlets, don’t worry. They added super cool power chairs into their lounge area to better serve their guests.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
At this Houston airport, in Terminal E, you can check out the United Club. This modern lounge area has 3 floors of space for you to stretch out. The clean welcoming atmosphere is a plus with members everywhere. They offer private showers, and complimentary cocktails. Previous guests suggest you try the Bloody Mary! You may want to keep track of time while you relax in this awesome club so you don’t miss your flight!

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
The Delta Sky Club in Atlanta, Concourse C, is the last place you would expect to find some comfortable quiet time in the busiest airport in the world, but once you enter you will find your secret hideaway. This extra roomy club has special window cubes for some privacy and quiet. The lockers have built-in outlets inside of them so you can charge your laptop or other items from inside your safe locker while you relax and de-stress!

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
The Alaska Airlines Board Room, Central Terminal, is quite an awesome lounge for such a small airport. 2 Floors overlook Concourse C so you can get in some people watching. You can view the planes and ramps from the large windows as well. Friendly, helpful staff are ready to help you make the best of your waiting time. They also offer fresh pancakes in the morning so you can start off your day with a delicious breakfast!

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, Terminal 4, is the place to be if you find yourself in a NY airport. Being one of the newer lounges on the scene, you can enjoy the fresh look and newness of your surroundings. The lounge offers a full bar, an entertainment zone, and a dining area that offers a la carte meals, desserts and even the finest of wines.
With the good comes the bad…here are some you may want to avoid.

ATL, Concourse B
Though the lounge in Concourse C is awesome, this one needs an upgrade. The layout is all wrong, it is crowded and usually dirty. It is too small for the number of guests, hardly any outlets, at least not working ones, and most guests advise you to head to concourse C and not waste your time here.

LAX, United Club
Terminal 7 is where you will find this outdated club. Food is scarce, and there are hardly any amenities. Travelers admit it is better than sitting at the gate, but just barely. Beware of the fruit flies at the bar!

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
United Club, Terminal 2, is probably not one you want to put on your list, It is very small, and you are lucky if you find a place to sit down. The staff is friendly and helpful, but they hardly make up for the messy atmosphere and poor amenities. Save yourself the disappointment and head over to Terminal 1’s Concourse B.

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Los Angeles is not only a city full of celebrities and traffic, but there are beautiful scenic drives, awesome hiking trails, sunny beaches and even skiing. Here are some tips to get the best out of your visit to the City of Angels.

The city of LA is home to about 4 million people, so it is easy to feel lost or overwhelmed when you are one of 42 million people who visit the area every year.

The best time of year to visit is from April through September, when it is not quite as crowded. You can spend about $200 a day, including your hotel and meals, so be prepared.

There are several cities that connect to form this awesome area, and it can seem bewildering getting around on the massive freeways, but it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Let’s start with one of the most famous areas, Hollywood.

One of the hottest spots in the city would be TCL Chinese Theater, which was once known as Grauman’s. It opened in 1927, and has been a popular sight, not only for the awesome architecture of the building itself, but for the thousands of celebrity hand and footprints placed around the building in the cement. The Hollywood Museum is where you will find props, costumes and photos from many classic films.

The Dolby Theatre is where you can find the awesome red carpet so famous at the Academy Awards. You can see the Hollywood Sign through the archways of the Hollywood & Highland Center, which is next door to the Dolby. Here you can find some awesome eateries offering foods of all types.

If you feel like hiking, check out Griffith Park. Here you can do some stargazing at the observatory, or just hike the trails and see the spectacular views of the city around you.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is an icon you won’t want to miss. This is where the first Academy Awards ceremony was held in 1929. Loews Hollywood Hotel is another place you can star search, especially on Oscars night.

Santa Monica & Venice Beach are the perfect spots for people watching. Here you will find surfers, volleyball games, cyclists, skateboarders and plenty of street performers to entertain you. Santa Monica Pier is home to the only beachfront amusement park in the area. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is another place to spot all sorts of performers, from bodybuilders to magicians, dozens of craft vendors, and entertainment all around you.

In Downtown Los Angeles you can relax at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The Museum of Contemporary Art has an awesome art collection from the 1940s to the present. Find works by Mark Rothko, Dan Flavin and Joseph Cornell, among many others.

Be sure to bring a small jacket or sweater when visiting in the evening as it can get chilly. Remember it is illegal to use your cell phone while driving, so be sure to have a hands free device, or just wait till you reach your destination before using your phone.

Filed under: Travel Tips, Traveling by Michelle Gushard
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There’s nothing worse than sitting in a car for hours on end trying to get to your destination. Travelers find this happening in Los Angeles more than anywhere else. The busy freeways can make for an exhausting, stress-filled commute. Here are some ideas to see things without sitting in the bumper to bumper madness.

Flyaway buses are becoming the way to get around the area. For just $8, these buses connect Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with Downtown Los Angeles ( about 35 minutes travel time) Santa Monica (about 40 minutes) and Hollywood (1 to 1-1/2 hours). These buses leave from the arrival level of each terminal. Look for the green signs. You can get tickets online or on board the bus, and they do accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express!

For public transportation, check out Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority, or Metro, for only $1.75 fare or $7 for unlimited day passes. $25 will get you a weekly pass. In Santa Monica the Big Blue Bus company will get you around for only $1.

Flyaway shuttle buses let you off at Union Station. This is Los Angeles’s main rail terminal, and was built in 1939. The architecture is worth a look, and you can get quick access to hotels from here.

In Hollywood the Flyaway bus ends near the Metro Red Line Subway stop at Hollywood & Vine. You can also depart at the intersection of Hollywood Blvd and Highland Ave, for super quick access to the Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre, and the Hollywood Museum.

A couple miles away is West Hollywood, or WeHo as they call it. It is an awesome walking area during the day and you can find sizzling nightlife in the evening. Check out the Sunset Strip, Santa Monica Blvd, or just do some window shopping at some designer boutiques.

You can rent bikes or take a cycling tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills, go celebrity hunting on a stars’ homes tour, or go all out on the 32-mile “LA in a Day” tour that will take you from West Hollywood to the ocean.

Head to the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice on the Flyaway Bus…it will take you to the Civic Center area, with plenty of things within walking distance. Check out the ocean, hop on some rides at Santa Monica Pier’s amusement park, or just get in some people watching.

The Big Blue Bus will get you to Bergamot Station where art lovers can check out an array of galleries.

Venice is another place for outdoor fun, relaxing on the beach and people watching. Jim Morrison once called this his home, and for good reason. There is plenty to see and do, and you can get here easily from Santa Monica by taking the Metro bus 733 down Ocean Ave and Main Street, or you can take a relaxing and energizing walk on the beach for about a half-hour and you will be there.

Within a few years, the Expo Line will be fully completed and travelers can go from Downtown LA to Santa Monica station in about 45 minutes.

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Road travelers can do a few things to ensure they will have a safe travel with no hassles to deal with when you arrive. First of all, if you are renting a vehicle, take the time to make sure it is in good working condition before you drive away. To be extra cautious you can take pictures of any dings or interior problems so you won’t be accused of being responsible for them later on.

Take well-traveled roads and make sure you have a map…whether paper or GPS. Do not take unfamiliar short cuts or unmarked, back roads if you are alone. If you need to reference your map, try not to do it in plain sight as others will immediately know you are not local and possibly lost.

Always lock your doors, and be sure to leave any important items or valuables in the trunk so they are out of sight. Those looking to steal are a lot less likely to take the time to break into a car that looks completely empty.

If you need to take a break from driving and don’t have time to stop overnight, make sure you go to a well-lit rest area or in front of a busy store before you take a nap. Always lock your doors if you are resting in the car.

Air travelers can follow some safety tips as well. Be sure to only check items that you can bear to lose, just in case. Don’t send something you can’t live without or replace into the baggage handlers trust, as problems do occur and you may not get those items back. Keep a list of what you have checked in case you need to replace anything. Be sure you only hand your bags off to an authorized person. Make sure you keep your eyes on your carry-on items and don’t trust the nice person next to you to watch them for you until you return. Also don’t leave your items alone while waiting in the airport or hotel lobby.

While you are at your hotel, request an upper room, as ground floor rooms are more often broken into. Make use of your hotel room safe for valuable items. Keep your door locked and make sure to use the peephole to check on visitors. If you are unsure if someone is hotel personnel you can always check with the front desk before opening the door.

Make sure you have a floor plan map on your hotel door or in your room. If not, take the time to check where the nearest exits are to your room in case of emergency.

Businesses can protect their employees several ways as well. Be sure travel insurance policies are up to date, and that employees have access to contact numbers that may be needed in emergency. Try not to send an entire group of extremely important employees together at the same time, in case of delays or other emergencies.

Make sure sufficient security is on all laptops and tablets so that none of your important information can be stolen or otherwise messed with.

Be sure your employees have access to a travel assistance provider to help with cash advances for emergency situations, or to find lost items.

Your health plan may not include travelers who are outside of the country. You can make a short-term package available to them for when they are traveling globally.

Follow these tips and you can be sure your trip will be hassle free.

Filed under: Travel Tips by Michelle Gushard
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