Fly Asia Direct/Ambassador Travel

When you are traveling in a country where you are not familiar with the language, take a pack of matches or some letterhead from the hotel you are staying in to show a taxi driver in case you get lost.

When Kids Ask About Turbulence

Most kids are excited by plane trips and rarely think about the fact that they're five miles above safe solid ground. But some children do have a fear of flying, and if there is turbulence the fear will most likely increase. So here's an answer for when they ask.

Question: If the plane is floating in air, why does it bounce up and down when it passes over clouds?

Answer: Airplanes ride a layer of air, like boats ride the surface of a river or ocean. You see them float and bob up and down with the waves. The air is moving all the time too. We move with it. If the air jumps up and down like waves in the ocean, we do too! We call it 'turbulence', a bumpy ride.

Suggestions for Jet Lag Survival

Covering any distance in a plane often results in something called “jet lag”. Most travelers try to make the most of their limited time overseas and ignore the leap in time zones they make in a matter of hours. There's no sure-fire way to avoid jet lag, but there are actions that you can take to minimize the effects of air travel and help enjoy your trip.

Start well rested. Make sure you get plenty of sleep for several nights before your trip. Our natural inclination is to run ourselves ragged trying to get everything done before takeoff.

Adjust to your new schedule ASAP. The minute you get on the plane, set your watch to the local time of your destination.

Sleep well on board. It's all well and good to tell yourself that you'll sleep on the plane, but in reality it can be hard…so good luck with this one!

Drink plenty of water. Increase your water intake a couple of days before your trip. Bring a large bottle of water, and once you are on board, drink 8 to 12 ounces every hour.

Skip coffee and booze. Alcohol and caffeine not only cause dehydration, they also interfere with your body's natural adjustment to the new time zone.

Get a little exercise. We're not suggesting that you run laps around the plane, but when you're awake and the fasten-seat-belts sign is off, get up and walk up and down the aisles a couple of times.

Don't nap. Once you're at your destination, try not to nap. Remember, your sleep cycle has been severely disturbed. It's generally best to stay awake until the normal bedtime at your destination.

Accept jet lag and schedule around it. Even though you've done everything you can to get your body into the right time zone, chances are you may still wake up earlier than normal. Get up early and start to experience your destination!

Tips for Check-in & Security

Checking in and going through security can be easy or it can be a hassle. It all depends on a few things. Here are some tips.

Have a proper government-issued photo ID accessible as you will need it several times (for check-in, boarding, transfers/connections, etc.). Along with your ID, keep your boarding pass and ticket or e-ticket itinerary handy.

Remember that new rules in the United States require a passport for all travel by air or by sea to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda, effective December 31, 2006. A passport will be required for all land travel to and from these countries as of December 31, 2007.

If traveling abroad, it is a good idea to make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months after your date of departure. Some countries will not allow you to enter their country, or possibly board a flight to their country, if your passport expires in less than 6 months.

Factor in extra time for lines at security checkpoints. There are often backups during peak flying periods.

Play it safe and don't bring anything such as knives or scissors that would call attention to your carry-ons.

Make sure your carry-ons don't exceed the size limitations set by the airline. Check with your travel agent prior to your trip so you don't have to repack things at the airport.

Pack a sturdy bag that is tagged inside and out with your name and contact information.

A coloured ribbon, piece of yarn, or sticker on your checked baggage can make identification at the baggage claim area much easier. A lot of luggage looks the same.

Bring snacks, water, and a Walkman or something to read in case of major delays.

Be prepared for random security checks, including manual searches of carry-on bags.

Wrapped goodies are a security no-no. Consider mailing gifts ahead or wrapping them when you arrive.

How Can I Protect My Home While I'm Away?

Suggestions for a safe home:

Planning a holiday is so exciting! Don't forget to make your home safe and secure while you're away. A burglar's three worst enemies are light, time, and noise. Here are some helpful tips to follow when you leave for holidays:

Leave blinds open in their usual position.

Have mail and packages picked up, forwarded, or held by the post office.

Stop newspaper deliveries.

Lower the sound of your telephone ringer and answering machine so they can't be heard outside. Never leave an outgoing message saying you're away.

Arrange to have your lawn mowed or your walk shoveled.

Use automatic timers to turn lights on and off in your living room and bedrooms at appropriate times. Consider connecting a radio to a timer.

Tell dependable neighbors when you plan to be away so they can keep a watch on your home.

Make sure your heat stays on. Use an electronic thermostat to automatically adjust it during the day. You don't want your pipes to freeze.

Always inform your insurance broker if you are going to be away on an extended holiday. Your policy may have a requirement that your insurance company has to be notified on any extended trips.

Most cities have professional house sitters (check references and make sure they are bonded) who can provide all types of services while you're away. Check the Yellow Pages under "House Sitters".

Getting Out the Wrinkles

Put rolled socks in the necks of shirts and blouses to help them keep their shape.

To avoid sharp creases, layer by putting waistbands of pants at the hinge edge of your suitcase, letting the leg hang over the far edge. Then place soft items such as sweaters on top, and then fold pants over them. Smooth out all wrinkles after each layer.

Use tissue paper or plastic dry-cleaning bags between layers to prevent creasing. Plastic bags are best because they trap air, which acts as a cushion.

Hang clothing in the bathroom while you shower; steam helps remove wrinkles.

For backpacks, it's often best to roll clothes to avoid wrinkles. Place pants on a flat surface, lay other lightweight items on top, and roll up as you would a sleeping bag.

*from Tilley Travel Tips by Alison Tilley.

For any question that you may have that is not answered here, please send it to us at info@ambassadortravel.ca. We look forward to being of service to you.