Know Your Air Travel Rights

If you have ever had a flight cancelled, had a boarding pass but were denied boarding because they overbooked, been bumped just before boarding, sat on the tarmac for hours, or find that your luggage has been lost or delayed on arrival at your destination, you know how maddening it can be.

This is especially stressful if it’s not just you and now you have a melee of angry passengers looking to re book. To put it mildly they are stressed and upset and make it obvious, Then you have the drunk and the crying kids all of which add to the stress level when all you want is to board a plane and get to your destination on time.

In all of these cases, the airline owes you for your trouble. Sometimes it’s by law and other times it’s just good customer service – not all airlines are equal in the way they handle a variety of problems. Here are some of your legal rights you may not know you have..

Research and Know Your Rights in Advance
It makes sense to know your rights before you book. When you are stranded at the airport is no time to start researching to find out what you are entitled to and what rights you have in the particular situation you end up in. There are two resources that will help you understand your rights the US Department of Transportation Airline Passenger Protection Bill and the Air
Consumer Flying Rights.

Locking in your Fare in advance of Payment
When booking a flight you can reserve and lock in your price for 24 hours or more without payment depending on the flight being booked. This works when booking direct with the airline or with your Travel Agent. This won’t necessarily work if booking your own fare online. At the time of making the reservation you must provide your exact name as it is on your passport or government ID. Names cannot be changed and if it’s wrong the reservation would be canceled starting back at the beginning looking for a new fare likely at a new more expensive price. This process gives you 24 hours or more to decide if that’s the flight you want before making payment. Remember that any requested changes during that time will cancel the reservation and start you back at the beginning with new information.

Prices do change quickly in the airline industry depending on the volumes booked on the flights. Booking last minute will likely cost you a lot more than booking 2 to 3 weeks out. When you get a good quote on the flight you want lock it in while you make a decision rather than losing out on the price while you decide.

Bumped Flights
You may not be aware but if you are bumped from a flight or if your luggage is lost or delayed you have a right to ask for cash. If they ask for volunteers because a flight is overbooked and offer a voucher for a future flight or a combination of cash and voucher most people will accept this. If that’s good with you then take it, but according to Airfare Watchdog you can ask for a cash payout on the spot depending on the amount of delay time In getting to your destination. :

Under US Department of Transportation rules bumped passengers subject to short delays will receive compensation equal to double the price of their tickets, while those subject to longer delays would receive payments of four times the value of their tickets. There are limits in place so check the DOT bill of rights for the latest compensation limits.

Short delays are 1-2 hours for domestic flights, and 1-4 hours for international flights. Longer delays are for times more than these. For outright cancellations, the airline owes a full refund, even on non-refundable flights.

Delayed or Lost Luggage
If your luggage is delayed or lost you are also entitled to compensation. Some airlines offer nothing other than delivery to your home or destination hotel when the luggage arrives, others offer a small amount of cash to cover essentials like toiletries, and others might offer a voucher for a discount on a future flight. The law actually says you are entitled to up to $3,300 for luggage delayed on a domestic flights and up to $1,500 for luggage delayed on an International Flight. The amount is determined by how long you are without your luggage. If the luggage is totally lost then you are entitled to the full compensation. Check the DOT bill of rights for the latest compensation limits.

Airlines are also required to apply the same baggage compensation for each segment of your trip if you have more than one flight including those with interline and code share partners.

Tarmac Delays
The amount of time the airlines are allowed to keep you sitting on a plane on the tarmac before they allow you to deboard has changed . On a domestic flight the airline cannot keep you on the plane for more than 3 hours before allowing you to deplane. On International flights the amount of time they can keep you on the tarmac is 4 hours. The airlines are required to provide you with water and washroom access at all times during the delay.

Summary
Airlines will often give you what works for them, glossing over whats best for you and your passenger rights. Your best defense is to know your rights and to be willing to follow up with them when you have to.

Most airlines will try to give you a travel voucher, a discount on a future ticket, a flight upgrade or additional frequent flier miles instead of cash. If you are happy with any of these take them.

The airlines will do their best to re book you on another flight or with another airline. Rather than wait in the line up after a flight is canceled call the Airline direct to re book, you’ll get booked much faster than waiting in line. Make a note of the airline contact number and keep it handy just in case.

Better to be prepared and to know your rights before you fly, then you’ll know exactly what to do if and when the times comes.

In my next article I will elaborate on how to complain and how to go about getting what you are entitled to.

I am a serial Entrepreneur particularly in all aspects Small Business and Tourism. Over the years in addition to owning a Country Inn & Restaurant and 3 Travel Agencies I have mentored many small business owners and developed and presented several workshops on Tourism, Entrepreneurship and Life Skills.

My staff are experts on Travel and treat our clients like family. We look forward to working with you to find the best program to suit your tour plans. Individual personal attention to your tour and travel requests.

Contact us now at info@a-ztours.com and check out our website tours and testimonials at – http://www.a-ztours.com

Avoiding Problems with Connections for International Flights

Avoid Airports with Multiple Terminals for International Connections

When flying to an International destination you want the process to be as smooth and comfortable as possible especially if you have to deplane and make a new connection. When buying your ticket there are a couple of things to consider to make your transition as easy and stress free as possible.

Firstly make sure there is enough time between connecting flights so you aren’t literally running from one gate to another. Remember that if your first plane is delayed it could mean you miss the connection. So check what weather conditions are likely to be at the time of travel and plan your time accordingly. Much better to have time for a coffee, meal and washroom break between flights than to be running from one to the next. This is especially important if you have to change terminals and if you have to go through security a second time for the new flight. If you need help ask your Travel Agent to help you plan your trip.

Some airports are better than others for connections so if traveling where you may have to change terminals this information is worth noting. Brett Snyder at Conde Nast Traveler highlights the three worst U.S. airports for international connections and what to look out for when considering an airport as a connection stop.

The 3 airports are:
1. O’Hare International Airport in Chicago
2. John F. Kennedy Airport in New York
3. LAX in Los Angeles

and if traveling through Europe I would also add
1. London Heathrow
2. Frankfurt in Germany

These airports have one thing in common: they all have multiple terminals, many of which aren’t connected behind security. This means you may have to go through customs and security again if you exit one terminal and enter another if the terminals are not connected behind security. Besides the time and energy taken to move from one terminal to another as I’m sure you realize going through security a second time can be tedious and time consuming especially if there are long lines. This is exaggerated by the fact you have already been through security once and have now come off your first flight likely tired after a long flight and made even worse if you have elderly persons or children in tow.

If you picked up that bottle of water or soda you will need to drink it or dispose of it again. If you purchased duty free on the first flight and have to go back through security for the next flight they are likely to confiscate your duty free liquor. This has happened twice were it was confiscated from my clients when flying into Amsterdam and onto Scandinavia. If buying liquor make sure to buy on the second leg if you have a terminal change – check with the store when buying it so you don’t get caught out.

Before taking your next international flight, check your routing, get advice from your Travel Agent on connection times for your particular connection airport and check online for the layout of the connecting airport so you can see exactly what you will encounter if changing terminals.

If you can’t avoid going though a connecting airport that you know could mean a terminal change and possible second security check, make sure to leave plenty of time between your flights so you are not rushed and stressed about missing your connection.

Being aware and prepared can save you a lot of time and stress and make your flight more relaxing and enjoyable. There is nothing worse than sitting on the first plane wondering if it’s going to arrive in time to make your connecting flight. Been there, done that!!!! it’s hard on the head particularly if you have time frames to meet at your arrival destination.

Plan ahead for a smooth relaxing trip.

My name is Avril and I’m originally from England, now a Canadian Citizen, I have over 35 years experience as a serial Entrepreneur particularly in all aspects Small Business and Tourism. Over the years in addition to owning a Country Inn & Restaurant and 3 Travel Agencies I have mentored many small business owners and developed and presented several workshops on Tourism, Entrepreneurship and Life Skills.

My staff are experts on Travel and treat our clients like family. We look forward to working with you to find the best program to suit your tour plans. Individual personal attention to your tour and travel requests.

Contact us now at info@a-ztours.com and check out our website tours and testimonials at – http://www.a-ztours.com

Tips for Avoiding Crowds when Traveling

When you go on holiday you are looking to your new surroundings to find relaxation and enjoyment away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. If your chosen destination is a hot tourist spot then you are likely to be overwhelmed by masses of tourists, noise and long line ups at your intended site visits. At this point you might wonder why you ever left home. Here are some tips to bypass the crowds and avoid the frustrations that might otherwise spoil your trip.

Book Your Passes or Event Tickets in Advance:
These days many Passes and Event Tickets can be booked online or through your Travel Agent and will save waiting in line ups.

Arrive before or After the Crowds:
Many of the sites have key times when the masses turn up, go early before the crowds or later, when they are likely to have left – even lunch times are good as many of the groups will have left to have lunch.

Travel in the Off-Season and avoid Main Holiday Periods:
Find out when the shoulder seasons are for your particular destination – these periods are often cheaper and definitely have less crowds to tend with. Remember that main holidays like, Christmas and Easter usually incur supplementary charges and will definitely be more crowded with holiday makers.

Talk To Your Travel Agent and Hotel Concierge:
Ask questions, get maps, ask about taxis, restaurants and the sites you wish to visit. These folks are experts and can save you lots of hassle trying to find things out for yourself.

Sign Up For Special Tours/Event in Advance:
If there are any special events or tours being offered for your Vacation buy them in advance. Firstly they are usually cheaper purchased in advance and secondly it ensures you get booked in before they are sold out.

Week Days as opposed to Weekends:
I think we all know that most sites and events are less crowded during the week than on weekends when people are off work and the kids are out of school. Flights are also usually cheaper weekdays than they are on weekends.

Choose the lesser visited sites during Peak Periods:
If you know that the main sites are going to be crowded during peak periods, try to choose the more off the beaten path sites during these times and save the main sites for quieter periods.

School Holidays are always busy:
When the kids are out of school you can guarantee that sites will be busy as families will be limited to traveling during these times if they don’t wish to take their kids out of school. Try to choose your travel times outside of these periods if you wish to avoid the crowds.

Opt Out of the Photo Ops on Entry:
Bypass the Photo Ops often offered at sites as you enter. Firstly you will bypass the line-up and you will save money as they are usually expensive. You can readily take your own photos with a cell phone these days.

Vary your Meal Times:
If you don’t have to have set meal times for medical reasons, then it makes good sense to vary your meal times to avoid the busy restaurant periods especially at lunch and dinner times. Besides avoiding the crowds you are likely to get better service when the staff have less folks to service at one time.

Avoid staying in Noisy Areas:
If you like a good nights sleep then be aware of the location of your Hotel. Stay away from busy and high traffic areas especially if there is a lot of night life going on in that area. Even if the Hotel is quiet you are likely to have late night revelers coming back to the Hotel at all hours of the night, and after a night of frivolity they aren’t likely to be quiet when going to their rooms. Check to see if any sports events are going on in the area and if the teams are staying at your Hotel – if they are you might be in for a noisy night.

Are there any Cruise Ships in Town?:
When Cruise ships dock for the day passengers are offered sightseeing and shopping tours. This means the local sites and shops will be overrun with Cruise passengers. Find out when Cruises are booked to Dock and if possible avoid the sites and shops on those days.

Check for The Weather:
Mother nature controls a lot of what we do especially for outdoor activities. Check the forecasts and plan your indoor and outdoor activities accordingly to accommodate the weather. It pays to be flexible when it comes to weather, and to have back up plans if the weather changes.

The Quebec Winter Carnival

THE QUEBEC WINTER CARNIVAL

The Québec Winter Carnival held annually in Quebec City in collaboration with Loto-Québec has existed for over 60 years. Taking place in late January to mid February each year. The habitants of New France created a rowdy annual celebration just before lent of eating, drinking and getting merry. This led to the set up of the annual winter celebration meant to create a social and tourism event that would in turn give Quebecers something to be proud of and stimulate the economy.
Over the years it has gained international fame through its renowned key figure, Bonhomme Carnaval, a living replica of a snowman. Created for the first festival in 1955 he enchants local children and has become an ambassador to all Carnival visitors. Bonhomme wears the the traditional red hat and belt and appears during all the various Carnival events.

Over the years the Carnival has added and enriched its activities. The Québec Winter Carnival has become the largest winter carnival in the world today, and is third on the List of Top Carnivals after the famous Rio and New Orleans carnivals.

Bonhomme’s Arrow Sash
The red outfits, the arrowhead sash, a sip of “caribou”, various tests of strength and skill and Bonhomme’s image go back to the origins of the Québec Winter Carnival, some even further.

The arrowhead sash used as a belt to tie jackets during the 19th century to prevent cold has remained a symbol in Quebecois society thanks to the Québec Carnival. Both a practical and fashionable accessory the belt and the red hat, linked directly to Québec folklore, are the primary elements of Bonhomme’s outfit.

Trumpets
The long red trumpets toot through the parade circuits to encourage people to move and dance to keep warm. Dress in red, tie your belt and hold onto your hat and enjoy a Quebec City party.

The Ice Castle
In 1955 A magical ice palace was built for Bonhomme this impressive ice construction even included a dungeon used jokingly to jail Carnival-goers who refused to honour Bonhomme.

The Carnival kingdom’s palace is an immense structure taking around 2 months to build of snow bricks then enhanced with light displays and special effects. The palace is the center point for many of the Carnival activities.

Ice canoe races
The ice Canoe Race held since the beginning of the festival has several courageous teams compete in a tumultuous ride along the St. Lawrence River between Quebec City and Lévis.

Now you can jump from spectator to canoeist allowing you to experience an ice canoe ride downtown were you’ll float and paddle on the St. Lawrence River with the ice crackling at your feet. A unique experience not to be missed.

Snow Sculptures
Sculptors from around the world turn Place Desjardins and Place Loto-Québec into a giant outdoor museum of snow sculptures. Snow sculpting has become one of the Carnival’s key activities. In 1973, the International Snow Sculpture Competition of Québec officially opened. Nowadays the International Snow Sculpture Competition has become a prestigious event and the oldest snow sculpture competition in the world.

Carnival Night Parades
The two Québec Carnival Night Parades have become popular events over the years. They take place during the second and the third Carnival weekends. Thousands of spectators turn out to celebrate and enjoy these unique events.

Caribou
The Caribou drink is feisty beverage created by Ti-Père, a business in Old Québec.

Carnival Queens & Duchesses
Each year after a lengthy process to qualify 7 duchesses are chosen to represent the 7 sectors of the Quebec region. They are assigned many tasks and must not forget that first and foremost they are Ambassadors of the Carnival.
At the beginning of the Carnival a Queen is chosen through a program based on the number of candles sold in the different areas of the city. Everyone participating eagerly awaits the Queen’s coronation. Over the years more than 12,000 women have applied to become a duchess.

Would you like to know more about this event or book to go – please contact us at info@a-ztours.com