
TravelSense The State Dept. recently announced a 35% increase in the cost of new passports. Meanwhile, the President signed the Travel Promotion Act. Seems a little at odds--promoting travel to the US while discouraging travel from the US. The overlooked fact is that outbound travel by Americans helps US-owned hotel chains, travel... agents, tour ops, cruise lines, car hires and more. Good move? What do you think?

TravelSense Every three seconds, a child under the age of five dies in low-income countries. Now travelers have the chance to make a difference and do MASSIVEGOOD with a $2, £2 or €2 voluntary “micro-contribution” every time they buy a plane ticket, reserve a hotel room or rent a car. Funds will go towards the fight against HIV/AI...DS, malaria and tuberculosis in developing countries. Won't you join us?

TravelSense So, the Senate has signed the Travel Promotion Act, and it's headed to Obama for signature. It's hoped that with its passage the US will see more international visitors but the program is being funded in part by a $10 levy on visiting citizens of the 35 visa-waiver countries. Will it work or drive more people away? What do you think of the plan?
abcnews.go.com
Congress Tries to Attract Foreign Tourists to US

TravelSense What do you think about the airlines' policy of a la carte pricing? Like it? Hate it? Rather not think about it?
www.nytimes.com
Once passengers shell out hundreds of dollars for a ticket, the sales pitches begin: Checking a bag? Need a pillow? How about some trail mix?

TravelSense DC is getting ready for the mother of all snow storms if news reports are to be believed. Perhaps now is the time to start those ski lessons we've been meaning to take. What's your favorite ski destination?

TravelSense Valentine's Day will be here before you know it. What's your favorite place to go for a romantic get-away?
www.travelsense.org

TravelSense Travel is getting a little more affordable for solo adventurers, at least for those taking to the high seas. Any tips to share with those looking to go it alone?
www.reuters.com
NEW YORK (Reuters Life!) - If you're fancy free and love to wander, the price might finally be right to travel solo. Instead of punishing travelers who prefer to go alone with hefty surcharges, the travel

TravelSense Travel ombudsman and columnit Chris Elliott lists seven trips you should never book online. The Find a Travel Agent directory on TravelSense can help travelers find agents who specialize in everything from castle stays to safaris.
www.cnn.com
Carolyn Fletcher's honeymoon started heading south the moment she and her husband landed in Cancun. No one was there to pick up the newlyweds.

TravelSense As news continues to unfold of the massive devastation caused by the earthquake in Haiti, we encourage all members of the travel community to provide such humanitarian assistance as possible through recognized disaster relief organizations.

TravelSense Some interesting reading from travel columnist Tom Belden. Is airline travel safer than it was? Is enough being done?
www.philly.com

TravelSense What are your best tips for making air travel bearable this holiday season? Mine? Arrive early, remember patience is a virtue and work with a professional travel agent.
www.cnn.com
'Tis the season...for long lines and frayed nerves. Here's how to cope.

TravelSense Where are you spending the holidays this year? Staying at home? Visiting family? Or taking advantage of some time off to treat yourself? Let us know!
www.travelsense.org
The Christmas season is truly a world event. The spirit of peace and joy, glad tidings and gift giving, shine forth upon the earth in a myriad of ways, even in countries without a predominantly Christian population. ...

TravelSense ASTA's Southern California chapter has created a video tutorial on how to use the Find a Travel Agent Search on TravelSense.org. There have been some enhancements to the Web site recently and this video will take you through the steps in how to use it to your advantage. This site features an ASTA travel agent directory..., travel tips, destination articles, travel books, videos of more than 30 destinations, trip quotes and the ability for guests to provide feedback. And, it's mobile accessible!

TravelSense To me the worst thing about travel is the packing. But now, thanks to TravelSense's customizable packing list, the worst just got a litte better. Feel free to use it often and share it with your friends.
www.travelsense.org
















