Paths
Well
Traveled
by maxine greco
Ever wonder where everyone is going?
The Source US department of Commerce, International Trade
Administration, Office of Travel and Tourism Industries lists the top
ten international travel destinations from the United
States. The top destination is of course Europe, followed
by the Caribbean, Mexico, Asia and Canada. The Caribbean destination is
the top cruise destination accounting for 40% of itineraries. The last
five destinations are South America, Central America, Oceania, the
Middle East and Africa. Better get your passports ready! Remember there
are new passport regulations requiring passports whenever you leave the
country and the passport office is running behind with requests.
Remember to organize your entire travel plans as the airports and
cruise lines are busy and seem to be running to capacity. Travel agents
and luggage stores are good sources to research travel information.
There are loads of books written and everything is also available on
the web. Keep in mind the smaller carryon sizes for International
destinations and the new weight restriction on baggage. You'll want to
pack lightweight luggage to keep within the 50lb. restrictions. Plan
ahead and your travel plans should run smoothly. The US Department of
Transportation lists the top domestic airplane routes. This information
is based on enplaned passengers of all airports for a city pair from
November of 2005 to October of 2006. Anyone who's traveled to or from
these destinations can testify to the accuracy. Number one is New York
to Chicago with 3.14 million passengers a year. Chicago is followed by
Ft. Lauderdale to New York, Los Angles to Chicago, Atlanta to New York,
Washington, DC to Chicago, Denver to Chicago, Atlanta to Washington,
DC, Atlanta to Orlando, New York to Orlando, and last is Las Vegas to
Chicago. Orlando is home of Disney World along with many other
attractions. The number 10 destination is Las Vegas to Chicago and they
handle 2.42 million passengers a year. That's a lot of travelers flying
in and out of these busy airports. When booking your travel plans,
remember to keep up with security rules and requirements. The trip is
easier and will go more smoothly if you are prepared. Using the TSA
locks on your luggage shows that you have been researching and are
adhering to the airline rules. The 3-1-1cosmetic case for your liquids
and gels in your carryon bags is the newest of the regulations. Now
you'll need to pack the majority of your cosmetics and toiletries in
your discount luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carryon bag must fit
into a quart-sized bag zippered bag.
Luckily there's a huge selection of
travel accessories designed to make your travel experience easier and
more rewarding. Be sure to investigate everything that's available
before your trip. No use finding out the airlines aren't offering
travel pillows or blankets when you have already boarded. Many
corporate gifts now include all of these wonderful travel items that we
don't like to do without. There are wonderful eye-shades, and
inflatable back or head pillows to make the trip more comfortable.
There's a huge array of travel money belts and hotel door alarms to
make the trip safer. There are travel jackets that are reversible and
travel shoes that can change color enabling you to pack less while
still having a selection of color. There are wrist-bands to ward off
nausea and No Jet-lag to take away time changes. There's packing cubes
to make packing or unpacking a breeze. Check out all that's available
to make the trip more enjoyable.
I always like to pack the "what ifs."
Take along one of the new lightweight umbrellas or small travel
raincoats. Bring some travel laundry soap in case you need to clean up.
Take a folding tote that will bring back the purchases which you could
not resist. A luggage strap can keep your overstuffed case from popping
open. Bright luggage tags will help you to identify your bags quickly.
A travel wallet will keep your passport and other necessary papers
organized and in one place. Shoe covers will let you pack dirty shoes
back into your case. Now choose one of these exciting destinations and
have a wonderful trip!
About the Author
Maxine Greco has been in the luggage
and travel business for over 37 years. She currently works at Village
Luggage
& Gifts.
|
|
