Yes, that time of year is almost upon us once again. So I thought it might be helpful to chat a bit about holiday travel and how to make it less stressful and more affordable. Some tips:
1) Avoid travling on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sundays after it and after Christmas
Not only will these be the most hellishly crowded days of the year to travel, both on the roads and in the airports but most of the airlines are imposing peak day fees of $20 each way, for travel on these days.
2) Try to fly non-stop if you can (unless you're trying to save money that is)
Holiday season is also storm season and the more times you take off and land, the higher the likelihood you'll be delayed. Even worse, if one leg of your journey is cancelled, it's likely you'll get on another flight anytime soon, as all seats will likely be taken. Problem is, flights with transfers tend to be much cheaper nowadays than non-stops. So weigh budget against peace of mind carefully.
3) Check in early (at home, the night before is ideal)
Airlines will be overbooked over the holidays and the last to check in are often the first to be bumped off the flight! Remember: most airlines now allow those flying domestically to check in online 24 hours in advance of a flight. Do so not only to save time, but to better insure there's a seat for you when you show up at the airport!
4) If you're driving, give your car some love and stock it up with supplies
The Car Doctor, Ron Ananian will likely have more advice on this. But I'm sure he'd tell you that checking your car before long trips is a must. You want to make sure your fluid levels are good and that your tires are fully inflated. Both of these issues will impact fuel efficiency. And since you'll be traveling in winter, be sure to equip your car with drinking water, flares, jumper cables, a blanket and a first aid kit. You want to be prepared in case of an emergency.
5) Make your house look inhabited
Burglers know that many people head out of town for the holidays. So fool 'em, by setting your lights on a timer and getting a neighbor to pick up your mail.
In a previous blog, “A Runners Wife” I spoke about my husband training for the NYC marathon. All I have to say is that the months of training all came together of an amazing race. Race day is a grueling day for runners, and the family. But a miracle happened...
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder testified before the senate judiciary committee and basically shrugged when asked if any other enemy combatant captured overseas had ever been brought to civilian criminal court to face justice. Talk about an incompetent boob, not to mention a disgrace.
Here is a list of wines all from Spain, and menus from restaurants in Brooklyn where a crew of us did a food / wine crawl through Carrol Gardens and Williamsburg recently
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