Flying Home at a Much Higher Cost

Good News! Airfares are increasing at a much slower rate this year compared to last year! What's even better, analysts said prices will rise even less in 2013.

The bad news? Airfares in the last two months of the year are set to soar...just as I'm booking my flights home for Christmas. Wonderful!

Experts in the travel industry said the average domestic fare in September was $375.35. So just imagine what that will be in Nov. and Dec. when everyone is traveling for the holidays. I'm guessing that unless I get really lucky and book at just the right moment, I'm probably going to end up paying over $300 for my flight to Denver, give or take a few bucks depending on which days and times I choose to fly. (That will largely depend on my available time off from work...oh how I wish I had unlimited vacation time.) What makes that high price tag even more likely is the fact the Southwest--known for its lower prices, just raised its domestic fares last week between 44 and $10 per round trip...and all major airlines matched the hike. Oh, how I despise the influence of Southwest sometimes.

Who knows if another hike will take place before the end of the year--I'm keeping my fingers crossed --but either way, the next week or two will be spent thoroughly searching and comparing for the best price. I just hope there are seats available...yet another problem facing holiday travelers...high demand and fewer flight options.

I absolutely love the holidays, and I cannot wait for Thanksgiving and Christmas with my family. But this is the one downfall of the season. Airlines taking advantage of travelers as they try to spend time with their loved ones.

Home for the Holidays

In a little over 48 hours from now, I will be sitting in an airport terminal waiting to board a plane home to Denver. This will be my first Thanksgiving with my family in three years, and, needless to say, I am ecstatic!!

Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed my last few Thanksgivings here in Chicago, but there is just something about being home for the holidays. It was difficult the first year that I decided not to go back to Denver, but I accepted that I would probably have holidays away from my family in the future, so it was a good way to prepare. I knew I would encounter different traditions, mannerisms, activities and even food, since everyone has their own versions of Thanksgiving dishes. Some of the food I liked more than others (not a fan of the jello molds, but the raisin-filled stuffing and pumpkin pie cheesecake certainly were tasty) and I have never been one to take part in Black Friday shopping until I met my old boyfriend's family. It was all an eye opening experience, but that has come to an end. Now, it is time to venture back, because there really is no place like home. (I know, but Dorothy totally knew what she was talking about.)

I cannot wait to do all the things I love to do with my family on Thanksgiving--bake fresh bread from scratch, watch/play football all day, help prepare all the food (though I usally focus on the cranberries and potatoes), chat for hours at the table after dinner and then sleep off our food comas late into Friday morning (no Black Friday shopping for us). Just the thought of getting to spend this time with my family is making me feel incredibly nostalgic and slightly emotional--though I must keep it together, seeing as I am at work.

This year, I will be changing things up slightly by doing a four-mile Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning with my friends. Though I have never done it before, I believe it will be a good tradition to adopt, since it means I can eat even more at dinner. Another event I am looking forward to is my best friend's 25th birthday, which is Friday. It's also her golden birthday, so we're getting decked out in our finest glittery, gold outfits and hitting the town.

Who knows what the rest of the weekend will hold, but I am sure I'll love every second of it.

I totally enourage people to see the world and experience other cultures, especially their holiday traditions, but there is something about going home. It will be a truly special time for my family, mostly because it will be the first time in three years that we are all together. And that means a lot, particularly for my grandpa, who has been struggling with his health this year. In all honesty, I think I am most excited to see him. Because if this past year has taught me anything, it's that family is the most important thing in your life. They are there for you no matter what, your constant support system. And since I'm so far away from mine, these are the moments I really cherish.

May has Arrived...

...and I cannot wait til it ends!

May is here, which means we are that much closer to summer. To consistent warm weather--enough of this one 80-degree day followed by a week in the 40s. To rooftop bars and weekend barbecues. To beach volleyball games and warm evening strolls. Yes, summer is an exciting time, but we still have to get through May before we can really start to enjoy it. In fact, I usually consider Memorial Day weekend the official kick off of summer.

American Flag. credit:americanconsumernews.com

While my plans for that glorious three-day weekend are still pending, I do know that they will involve some form of grilling, plenty of drinks, and lots of friends. There is no better way to spend it really, except maybe a trip somewhere. (Come on, you honestly didn't see that one coming?)

So, where would you travel for Memorial Day? Of course, you could do something themed to go along with the holiday, like visiting Washington D.C. and doing a tour of all the war memorials. Or something a little more elaborate like gonig to Hawaii to see the site of the Pearl Harbor attacks. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, so a weekend to the Gettysburg area could be a good option. New York is a great choice, since it not only features a wonderful Memorial Day parade, but it also is the site of Fleet Week, where sailors and servicemen dock in the harbor and show their American pride by strutting around in uniform.

No matter where you choose to spend the holiday, you will be sure to find some kind of special event or celebration going on. If not, you can always throw your own party!

Holiday Travel....

...Have you booked your flight yet?

Every year when November first hits and the Christmas music comes on the radio, the initial thought in my head is...where am I going to be for Christmas? I'm usually at home for Christmas, back with the family in good 'ol Denver, Colorado. While I never had to travel home for the holidays before, now I live far enough away that I have to plan my trip well in advance in order to get my vacation days approved and my flights booked. Many people have to go through the same process as me, while others can simply drive or take trains home and still others avoid home all together and opt for a holiday vacation.

Holiday travel can be hectic, and this time of year spurs some of the largest airport crowds ever. It can be tough to find decently priced airfare, or even good dates to fly. Blackout dates plague those trying to use mileage and horrible weather can ground planes for hours, making it impossible to get home on time. I'm sure there are plenty of people out there who have spent a Christmas Eve or Day stranded at an airport. For all those who find themselves traveling during the holidays, airlines are providing a little relief from the stress. Many major airlines announced reduced holiday prices this week, dropping some costs down by 35%. So if you still haven't purchased your tickets for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, check out travelzoo to find out the cheapest days to fly, and get some helpful tips from some travel experts.

As far as those people who do not have to fly, train travel is certainly an untapped resource for many travelers. This year, Amtrak reported it's on track for a record number of passengers for the fiscal year, which makes sense since train fares are significantly cheaper than airline tickets. Prices for train tickets are relatively consistent, with the possibility of slight peaks during high travel periods, but even with that spike, it's a much more economical choice. The only set back to the train is the length of travel time. Planes, obviously, get you to your destination quicker. So if you have a long distance to go, stick with planes. If you are not traveling across the country, but rather somewhere close, like the next state over, a train might be your best option. It's cheap, convenient, with plenty of space for your bags, and you get to enjoy some lovely scenery along the way.

If you choose to drive to your holiday destination, be sure to check road conditions and traffic. While airports can be packed, so can highways, so it might take you longer than expected to get home. Another important thing to keep in mind is gas prices. Now that the Federal Reserve is trying to stimulate the economy by buying bonds, gas prices will inevitably rise. The good news for drivers is that with rising gas prices, airfares will increase. Cars are still the cheaper alternative.

Whether going by train, plane or automobile, the holidays will always be a crazy time to travel. Just remember what is waiting for you when you finally arrive...

Famous One Day of the Year

For those who pay attention to completely meaningless holidays, today is Groundhogs Day. A day when people gather in a little town in Pennsylvania to watch a bunch of guys, dressed head to toe in colonial style suits, pull a little groundhog named Phil out of his home and pretend that he will predict the coming weather. This was the spectacle I watched this morning as I pedaled away on an elliptical. And what did our little weatherman predict? Suprise, suprise, 6 more weeks of winter.

While the news of the weather certainly dampened my endorphine-spiked mood, the news story also provided me with a great blog idea. That little town, you know it as Punxsutawney, PA, has a spotlight cast on it for one measly day out of the year. But what about the rest of the time? What does this little borough have to offer?

As it turns out...not a whole lot. At least, not in the central part of the town. Other than the famous Gobbler's Knob where Phil pops his head out every year to see his shadow, there's Barclay Square, Groundhog Zoo--yeah, they're pushing that tradition,--Marion Center Speedway, and Silverbrook Fiber Meadows Tours. Around Punxsutawney, there are plenty of exciting activities to partake in: hunting, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, biking, and cross country skiing. The town also provides numerous festivals in the summer, so if you visit during that time of year, there should be enough to keep you busy. Even though this town is pretty famous, it probably doesn't receive all the credit it deserves. I guess that's the downfall of having such a famous celebrity reside in a small town.

I wish I could provide you with more information, but it was difficult to locate any kind of tourist information that didn't involve Phil. I also tried to find a good picture that shows the town, but I could not find any that didn't feature that cute little critter's face--so you get a nice sign instead. Enjoy! And happy 6 more weeks of winter!

Happy New Year!

Hopefully everyone had a fantastic holiday season and welcomed 2010 with a bang!!

Pardon my absence from the blog scene, but I was in Denver for two long, wonderful weeks. And since it was the holidays and I was on vacation, I decided to avoid the responsibilities and demands of my crazy, everyday life and just get lost in the comfort and relaxation of home.

Anyway, I'm sure many of you were traveling these past couple weeks. I hope the delays, crowds, weather, etc. did not bring down the holiday spirit. I also hope everyone got what they asked for this year from Santa (or your parents, significant other, friends).

This will be a short post as I am currently on my lunch break from my new apprenticeship, which I just started today. It's exciting, and I will tell you all more about it at a later time. Enjoy the new year and returning to the daily grind.

For the Traveler in Your Family

It's the holidays--if you haven't noticed--and time for Christmas shopping. For those lucky few out there, gift ideas are streaming in like a strong wifi signal. But for the rest of us, finding the perfect gift is a little harder to come by. If you have an avid traveler in the family or as a close friend, I have a couple quick tips for possible presents.

If your world trekker enjoys venturing to countries where English is not the national language, opt for Rosetta Stone (or something like it because it is pretty expensive). Language learning systems are great gifts for anyone interested in learning a new language and hoping to use it on a future trip. Right now there are some decent holiday deals everyone should take advantage of.

They travel so much their luggage is starting to look a little worn out--and the fact that that zipper won't close all the way is a recipe for lost luggage disaster. Why not buy them a new suitcase? Or how about a whole luggage set? For those who practice tough love with their luggage, consider some serious baggage they will have a hard time breaking in. For something a little sleeker to suit that sophistacated type, there are some smaller, more creative, items you can look into.

Modern travel is not getting any more luxurious. In fact, making flying more enjoyable is next to impossible--unless you can afford those first class beds with private televisions and free champagne. So visit PB travel for cool accessories that make flying a little more tolerable. (Note: this website caters to women, but there are some pretty cool items.)

Something truly unique for a jetsetter is a personalized city map. Yes, you heard me right. A La Carte Maps combine the guidebook and the map in one easy to use tour guide which reduces the hassle of carting around a huge guidebook with so many places to visit it will make your head spin. You can get one made for a specific city, or there is the option to "create your own" city map where you can document the locations and adventures yourself. The possibilities are endless.

Finally, the best, and most obvious, gift for the traveler in your life: book a trip!

Just a Quick Thought...

...First, I'm sorry the entries have been lacking. I just finished the fall quarter last week, and now I have all this time on my hands and somehow I do not know how to handle it. I promise more posts to come.

...Second, IT'S DECEMBER!!! Christmas season is in full swing!! The Christmas lights and trees are going up all over the city!! The snow is falling--and for all the Chicagoans, it just started today!!

And with this holiday season comes the office blues. No one wants to be sitting in an office when the fectivities are taking place. Plus, the weather can be dreary, except when the snow is falling and settling nicely on the ground--and causing no traffic problems whatsoever in a perfect world. So to ease those times when you're feeling a little blue about sitting at a desk all day, find ways to celebrate the season while working.

1. Throw a holiday party at work-it doesn't have to be big and extravagent. Take a lunch hour, bring in Christmas cookies and some delicious casseroles--or sandwiches work, too--and have some sparkling cider. People will appreciate the break from the grind.
2. Find a Christmas Market: Plenty of cities have small markets selling crafts, gifts, and food. Chicago has the Christkindlemart in Daley Plaza. It's German, but anyone can go and enjoy the hot wine served in little boots, beer, brats, strudels, pretzels, and numerous vendors with delicate creations from all corners of Germany and beyond. What a way to experience the holiday and another culture all at once.
3. Take a trip!--Sure it's the holidays, and you should spend it with your family at home with a Christmas tree and presents. But why not jet off somewhere to go skiing? How about lazing on the beach? Or enjoying a nice mountain cabin? There are a lot of winter deals out there, so check them out and book a spontaneous vacation. That will certainly lift your spirits.

Personally, I'm looking forward to heading back to Colorado for two weeks to snowboard, lounge around the mountains, and spend time with my family and friends. It doesn't get much better than that.

Halloween Presents a Chance to Escape

All-Hallows Eve is almost upon us, scared yet?

Well, unless you've been visiting haunted houses, decking your place out in creepy spiderwebs and ghoulish pumpkins, or seeing horror flicks like Paranormal Activity--I hear it's pretty freaky--then you're probably not in the mood to be scared. And I'm with you on that. I prefer to look at the lighter side of Halloween: dressing up in fun and ridiculous costumes that allow you to be someone else for the night.

I just finished buying the last accessories for my costume, and I am ready to escape to a different world. While I don't want to give away what I am planning to be, I will divulge this: my costume will take me to a mythological time, when wine ran like water.

Mostly I'm excited because my costume reminds me of my time in Italy, and it got me thinking about how a lot of costumes on Halloween are inspired by distant places. Knights, princesses, eskimos, Romans, Russian guards, British guards, Kings, Queens. Those fancy masks and disguises were inspired by the Venetians and their masquerade balls during carnivale. I am aware that many people dress up as nurses, cops, soldiers, doctors, animals, etc., which can all be found in the U.S. But I like the idea of bringing another world into ours, even for just one night.

Happy Halloween!

Last Minute Travel on Halloween...

...make sure you read the fine print.

When I heard from Travelzoo that JetBlue was offering all nonstop U.S. routes on Halloween for $31 each way, I thought it was too good to be true. So I clicked the link to see what the deal was.

Turns out, there are a couple technicalities:
1. You have to book the flight TODAY! That's right, the deal only lasts until 11:59 p.m. tonight, Oct. 20.How can anyone in one day figure out where they want to go--on Halloween of all days--and get it booked in time?
2. The price is only valid on flights that depart after noon on Oct. 31--so if you wanted to leave in the morning so you could get to your destination earlier and have more time to spend there, it's not an option.
3. It claims that the cost is $31 each way, but according to the website, the price is applied to a one-way ticket. How are you suppose to get back? And since the price only applies to the day of Halloween and ends at 11:59 p.m. on the 31st, you have to pay for a full price ticket for the return flight--unless you want to fly there and back in one day, but who wants to do that?

Personally, I'd rather save myself the money and the hassle and just stay home for Halloween. I appreciate a good travel deal as much as the next person, but this doesn't sound like much of one to me.