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When booking your flights and you have a connecting flight, how much time do you allow between those? 

Obviously, the amount of time you need to leave between flights depends on the airport, the airline, the weather, customs, security, and switching terminals…to name a few. 

Scheduling a safe amount of time saves you hassle and unwanted stress. But, how much time is that? Most sites tell you to leave at least 90 minutes between flights. That’s the ideal amount. 

For international flights that connect with domestic flights, you will need to leave enough time to clear customs. And, that can vary widely in airports.

When traveling to a foreign country, it seems like I always have some leftover cash. If I know I’m going back to that country, I’ll save it. However, if I don’t want to remember where I put it for next time…here’s an idea.

Before you go on your trip, purchase a Starbucks coffee card. Then, before your return trip home, go to the Starbucks in the airport…there’s always at least one. Take your extra change and currency and use it to add to the value of the card. 

No leftover change…extra money on your Starbucks card.

If you don’t drink coffee, you can always use it for a gift. 

If you use a packing list, you probably won’t forget important items. If you don’t use a list…at least plan ahead to remember everything you need for your upcoming trip.

Are you traveling to a country where you need an adapter for your electronics? If so, do you know which one you need? It’s best to plan this ahead of time to avoid looking for the right adapter at the last minute. No sense buying an expensive one in an airport gift shop.

Do you know the weight restrictions on your luggage…both carry on and checked? Good idea to check before you arrive at the airport.

Do you need any immunizations? If so, do you know how far in advance you should get them?

Have you broken in your new shoes?

Do you need or want a special meal on the plane? If so, have you ordered it?

Did you book your pet or house sitters?

The Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, California turns 25 this year. It was officially recognized as an American Viticulture Area (AVA) in 1989. However, cabernet sauvignon vines weren’t planted there until 1961. This area of the Valley is known for its cool breezes, clay and loam soil, and gentle hills. Wines produced here are known for their soft, rich tannins and impressive ageability.

In 1976 the 1973 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellers Cabernet Sauvignon took first place at the Judgement of Paris tasting, which propelled this AVA into fame. Ten years later another Stags Leap District wine, the 1972 Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon took first place at the 10 year anniversary of the Paris tasting.

Stags Leap District is the smallest AVA by planted acreage in Napa Valley.

When traveling, it’s always a good idea to be polite. It doesn’t matter if you’re going wine tasting, visiting a museum in San Francisco, or shopping in Paris. After all, you’re in their territory.

Typically in Europe, and especially in Paris it’s a good idea to greet the shopkeepers when entering a shop and to thank them when you leave. Why? It’s just the polite thing to do. You also get to practice your French or Italian or wherever you are. 

In fact, practicing some simple phrases in the language of the country where you will be visiting is also a good idea. Start now by learning ‘hello’, ‘goodbye’, ‘please’, and ‘thank you’. You’ll be glad you did.

If there is an attraction, museum, or other site you really want to visit…do you book your tickets ahead of time? 

Many places allow you to book on their website in advance. You won’t have to stand in line if you can download your tickets at home. Just don’t forget to take them with you.

Or, if you can’t print them at home…you can pick them up at their will call office. This also allows you to skip the long lines.

The same goes for a restaurant where you really want to eat. Book it advance. Just keep the reminder on your phone or with you.

Happy Thanksgiving…enjoy.

Recently I was looking at flights to Paris and came across a site different than what I normally use for alerts. 

Airfarewatchdog.com is the site. Has anyone used this site? If so, what do you think about it?

The site tells me I can chart my flight and it will be updated regularly with the latest fees for checked baggage, tickets, and more.

Check it out and let me know what you think.

We’ve all had layovers in airports. It’s just part of traveling.

Depending on how long your layover is, you can find time to do many things in airports now. Some have museums, some have chair massages, some offer multiple spots to plug in your devices and work or watch a movie.

One way to use up some time and get ready for a long flight is simple…take a walk. If your next flight is across the country or across the pond, you’ll be sitting for a lengthy amount of time. In fact, even if it’s a shorter flight…walking is a good way to get ready for those airplane seats.

Download an airport map and walk from terminal to terminal. A good brisk walk for 30 minutes can burn at least 100 calories. And, it will get you ready to sit for the next several hours.