5 things you absolutely must consider before cruising
Cruising can be an exciting and very affordable vacation option. Of course, it’s important to find the right cruise at the right price for your getaway. With more than 160 ships in the fleets of the 24 major cruise lines offering thousands of itineraries worldwide the choices and options can be daunting. Here’s a primer on what to consider when picking out a cruise vacation.
Airlines cut fuel surcharges — but not to every destination
Fuel prices are down. But airline fuel surcharges aren’t on their way out — unless you’re flying to certain European destinations.
For Americans abroad, no dollar news is good news
The dollar is stronger than it’s been for a long time, and some American travelers and expatriates are breathing a sigh of relief, hoping this is only the beginning. Many of them are tired of living on a diet of bread and pasta.
Hong Kong — world’s best airport for 2008
Hong Kong International Airport has again been named the World’s Best Airport. It won the award last year and won for the seventh time in 10 years.
Dutch treat: meet the Eurodam
The 86,700-ton, 2,104-passenger Eurodam is the largest and first in the new Signature-class series for Holland America Line. Compared to other new ships, Eurodam is mid-sized and doesn’t offer the recently hyped megaship trends like zip lines or ice bars. Instead the line has focused on what it says are relevant guest features like service and upgraded premium amenities.
Affordable Europe: 10 secrets for stretching your dollar this summer
You’ve probably read all the stories and watched the TV pundits warn that Europe is getting outrageously expensive this summer. Charlie Leocha says you can still afford the trip. Here’s how.
Crewmember confidential: 13 secrets for stretching your travel dollar
If you haven’t been on an international trip for a while, brace yourself for sticker shock. As many of us know, the dollar is at an all-time low against most currencies and there is not much relief in sight.
Why are European airlines making money?
While U.S. airlines are losing money hand over fist — despite predictions to the contrary — European carriers like Lufthansa, Swiss, British Airways and Air France/KLM are raking in the dough. What’s up with that?
European airlines owning U.S. air carriers? Why not?
First it was Open Skies. Now the U.S. is surprising everyone by proposing to ease the “spider’s web of airline ownership rules” in a move that would allow Europeans to own more of a U.S. airline.
Europe at $8 a gallon? Not so bad
Newspapers and magazines are howling about how expensive travel in Europe is these days. However, driving — even with gasoline at $8 a gallon — can be a bargain. Charlie Leocha describes a recent driving trip in Germany and France.