Air Travel with Tiny Tots

Recently one of our Twitter followers, @Tleaving, asked for insight on making traveling with an infant less stressful. While we cannot guarantee a hassle-free trip when traveling under any circumstances, not just when flying with a little one, we advocate educating yourself as much as possible prior to departure. Knowledge is power when traveling.

But, back to the subject at hand, flying with baby. How do you make it easier? With this question in mind we forraged through the interweb and found a whole host of tips, tricks and secrets that are intended to help you, the parents!

We started with the new website, ByeByeWithBaby.com. This robust site compiles a comprehensive listing of places where mothers can nurse, change diapers and other family friendly locations. They contacted all of the airports in the country, including HIA, and logged locations of nursing rooms, changing tables and play areas for children.

Before you arrive at any airport for a trip, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the Transporation Security Administration's (TSA) policies for clearing the security checkpoint efficiently with your children and their carry-on belongings. A full run-down of what we're about to paraphrase is available online.

When packing a your children's carry-on please note that medications, formula, juice and breast milk are permitted in reasonable quantities and are not required to be in the zip lock baggy with your gels, aerosols and other liquids. The TSA recommends only carrying liquids and gels that are needed for you and your child's immediate comfort.

When queing at the security checkpoint begin by collapsing and folding up strollers and other child-related equipment as all kiddie items, including diaper bags, toys, blankets, strollers, car seats, backpacks, baby slings, etc must go through the x-ray machine; there no exeptions. If these items will not fit on the conveyor belt to go through the machine, please be prepared for a TSA employee to hand inspect that item.

You and your munchkin need to walk through the metal detector after all of your items are on the conveyor belt. You are permitted to carry your child through and will not be separated from your child at any point during this process. If you need an extra hand gathering your items from the x-ray machine once you've cleared security, feel free to ask a TSA employee for assistance.

Oh, and another quick security checkpoint tip, as this question is frequently asked, if your child is under 18 and flying with you, you do NOT need ID for them.

FlyingwithKids.com had much to say about what to do once you've arrived at the airport and after security, so we pulled out what we found to be the most helpful of their tips:

• When you've checked in for your flight, ask the attendant if the flight is full. If it's not an overly full flight some airlines will allow you to move your seat next to a vacant one which affords you more room for you and your child.
  
• Keep a small bag with a diaper, wipes, and rash cream readily available for those unexpected "uh ohs" that happen!


• If you have a larger, squirmier child that requires a diaper change once you're on the plane, as the flight crew if they have a space you can use to change the diaper, as the changing tables in some aircraft bathrooms are quite small.


• ALWAYS test the temperature of in-flight meals before sharing them with your children, often the foods are quite hot.


• Disposable bibs are a great must-have for in-flight meals.


• If you have formula that needs warmed, you are often able to ask the flight crew to warm it for you with enough notice.


• Most strollers do not fit in the overhead bins of smaller aircraft, research the bin restrictions of the aircraft you're flying on before you get there.


• An infant front-pack is often helpful for carrying your baby when you're also trying to haul luggage with you through a terminal.


• If you don't purchase a seat for your child (under the age of 2) you will be expected to hold the child during the flight.


• Print out a copy of the Federal Aviation Administration's Childproof your Flight brochure, you won't regret it!

One final tip that we'd recommend is bringing along items that you know are familiar and comforting to your children: a favorite, toy, blanket or book. And, if your child is of an age that you can explain to them a basic understanding of what it's like to fly on a plane, prepare them for what to expect.

There are many, many resources online for increasing the success of your air travel experience with your children. We recommend additionally perusing:

• 5Ts to Happy Travel with Tots


• Before You Travel by Air with Baby

Have we missed anything you think is pertinent to traveling with your children? What tips and tricks can you offer to parents of young children for air travel?

Lady Travel Talk: My Must-haves When Traveling Internationally

We are pleased to introduce our 8th guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series.

Today's guest blogger Benet J. Wilson is a reporter for Aviation Week. She oversees the Aviation Week business aviation channel at aviationweek.com/biz. You can read more from Benet on her personal travel blog as well.

Today Benet describes what she's not willing to travel without when flying internationally.

Before I had my daughter four years ago, I was a regular world traveler. But after she was born, I cut back – drastically – because I hate being away from her for too long.

But it was back in the saddle for me recently when I was sent to Geneva, Switzerland, to cover the 2010 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, the industry show of record for this region of the world. I was going to be there for a week, and I was excited to be leaving the country again after more than two years from my last trip.

So it was time to take out the suitcase and start packing. I have the I Heart Travel-Packing app on my iPod Touch, because my memory isn’t what it used to be, so I need all the help I can get. Believe me, it is NOT fun to realize you've reached your destination and forgotten to pack underwear. This app has sample lists for men and women; it also allows you to create your own list and create a master catalog where you can drag items for new lists. Plus if the worst happens – lost luggage – you have a list of what you packed.

I usually choose a neutral color theme – blue, black or taupe/beige – and pack accordingly. It’s amazing how an outfit can look different with a different jacket, sweater, scarf or accessories, and I chose black for this trip. I also take an extra pair of shoes.

There are also things I refuse to leave home without. One is a roll of toilet paper. Yes. TP. No offense, but European toilet paper is pretty harsh, and after a day I am not happy. I bring my own wash cloths. Again, European hotels don’t tend to have them in restrooms, and I like having my own. I also bring a vial of Dr. Brommer’s liquid Peppermint soap for its myriad uses – body wash, clothing wash and soothing foot wash after a long day of hoofing it at shows.

In my purse, I keep the following: hand sanitizer, Ibuprofen, Claratin allergy medicine, Tylenol PM, Neosporin, Cortisone, Band-Aids, hand lotion and cough drops. I also keep baby wipes from when my daughter was younger. They serve myriad purposes, including hand cleaner, facial refresher and seatback tray table and lav cleaner.

I have a back pack that holds all my work equipment (laptop computer, iPod, digital camera, video camera, chargers, notebooks, pens, etc.). I love the Bijoux Terner $10 dollar stores at airports across the U.S., and I love their pashima scarves. They can serve as a pillow, a blanket and a stylish wrap year round. I also keep portable snacks and a small emergency kit with vitals in case my luggage gets lost (and it has happened several times).

I hope my tips have helped. I’d love to know: what items are must-take for you on trips? What do you keep in your carry-on bag? What are some of your packing tips?

You're in Good Hands with HIA's ARFF

Have you sat in a plane on the tarmac at Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) and witnessed a large bright green truck driving by you? “What the heck was that,” you may ask your neighbor. What you saw was one of the fire fighting vehicles in the HIA Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) department. There are seven vehicles in the total fleet; three frontline fire fighting vehicles, a rescue truck, a medical quick response unit, an attack vehicle, and a rescue boat. Each piece of equipment in the fleet, when not in active use, is stored at HIA’s on site fire house/station.

Along with housing the vehicles, the fire house is home to 14 full time fire fighters when they are on duty. The team includes a chief and four platoons comprised of a captain and two firefighters. There is one firefighter which floats from shift to shift filling in for fire fighters on vacation. The majority of the guys that make up the team have prior military and aircraft rescue backgrounds. Each of them is trained in fire fighting, emergency medical treatment, hazardous materials, and basic water rescue. The HIA ARFF department is one of 37 fire departments in the state that has received recognition for 100% participation in the Pennsylvania Fire Service Certification program with personnel certified in the following specialties: airport fire fighter, hazardous materials responder, fire inspector, fire instructor, and fire officer. There are no buts about it, these guys know what they’re doing!

The platoons start each day the same way, with role call and updates with the chief followed by equipment and vehicle checks. They pay special attention to all of the details of the equipment and vehicles they use in a given day to insure everything is operational, clean, and ready to respond when needed. After their checks the platoon on duty will complete any necessary training for the day, and then head off for fire inspections, verification of the fire suppression equipment in the terminal, perimeter, fuel farm and fuel equipment checks. Platoons also respond to medical calls and standbys throughout their day. A standby is when a ARFF vehicle is needed on site while a plane is being refueled with passengers are on board the aircraft.

The fire fighters have a lot of responsibilities when they are on duty and these responsibilities require a number of specializations to be held by the platoons. They are qualified in structural and aircraft rescue fire fighting, medical emergencies, HAZMAT, and water rescue. While these duties are similar to that of a municipal fire fighter, the environments in which these duties are performed vary. A municipal fire fighter responds to emergencies in the community, whereas the ARFF platoons work to prevent unique hazards in a customer-oriented environment. Their's is a very centralized operation with a focus on prevention and inspections.

So, the next time you’re sitting on the plane waiting to take-off and a large green vehicle crosses your path remember that Chief Frank Wirth promises that ‘you are in good hands’ with the HIA ARFF. He oversees a team of thirteen fire fighters who focus on your safety, fire and incident prevention and teamwork. Chief Wirth, a life-long fire fighter, emphasizes that the ARFF department is a team of responsible fire fighters who are well trained and work well together.

Have you seen any of these fire fighting vehicles during your trips to/from HIA? Did you tour a fire house/station as a kid? What impressed you the most about the experience?

Lady Travel Talk: Travel by Preference

We are pleased to introduce our 7th guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series.

Today's guest blogger is Wendy Edsall-Kerwin is a jewelry artist and metalsmith living and working out of her home in Elizabethtown, PA. She received a BFA from Tyler School of Art in 1998.Currently her work can be found at Radius Gallery in Harrisburg, PA; Veleska Jewelers in Lancaster, PA; and at Luke & Eloy Gallery in Pittsburgh, PA. She attends several craft shows a year, as well as participating in local, regional, and national exhibitions. When she isn't in the studio pounding away at metal, you can usually find her online at her blog or her website.

Today Wendy recommends how to best travel based upon your personality and preferences.


While I haven’t traveled much in the few years since my husband and I bought our first house, I have been a traveler my whole life. I was two years old the first time I flew on a plane and I’ve loved to travel ever since. I’ve even worked as a travel reservationist for three different companies. I’ve stayed at luxury hotels, b & bs, hostels, camped, and even had to stay at places with moldy showers, dirty sheets, and roaches. And you know what? Regardless of the experience at the time, the memories are all good ones.

How do you make sure you’ll have a good experience while traveling? You need to travel on your terms. Are you someone who wants to make friends while traveling and hate the hassle of worrying about where to go, how to get there, and booking hotels? Think about group travel. A lot of companies (including one of my former employers) offer a variety of tours all over the world. Keep in mind that many of these trips are filled with older travelers, but there are group tours through universities and other special interest groups that have a more diverse age group.

Want a longer, more immersed experience? Travel as a student. I did two summers abroad during college, four weeks in Ireland and six weeks in Japan, and this is by far my favorite way to travel. You get more of a feel for a place, the locals get to know you, and you have plenty of time to get out and explore. But I graduated years ago, you might be thinking. Take a workshop or learn a language overseas. I also spent a month in Berlin in a German immersion course at the Goethe Institut. I met other students, participated in all the cultural programs the school offered, and my German improved noticeably.

What if you hate rigidly planned itineraries and want some adventure? Get a guide listing hostels or b & bs, buy a plane ticket, and just go! Make sure that you’re aware in advance if you’re going during high season or not. It’s easier to find spur of the moment accommodations in low or shoulder seasons. Try taking the bus and train instead of renting a car. It’s safer to travel this way with someone else, but as long as you are careful, do some research on the area, and stay aware of your surroundings, you can do this alone also. Some of my best travel experiences stemmed from spur of the moment decisions.

So don’t choose a group tour if you like to explore on your own and make sure to plan your trip in advance if you don’t like to make decisions on the fly. Knowing your personality and traveling accordingly will make your trip more enjoyable and full of pleasant memories.

Have you tried traveling the way Wendy's recommended to us? What have you found to be the best means of travel for your personality type?

Lady Travel Talk: Travel Niceties & Niceness

We are pleased to introduce our 6th guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series. Today's guest blogger is Maggie Lang, she is a Marketing Manager for a major airline, a former Marketing Manager for Walgreens, and a worldwide traveler. Maggie self identifies as a "international citizen," having grown up and lived in 10 different countries.

Today Maggie encourages to understand travel niceties and practicing the art of niceness.

I’m an airline employee. I’m married to an airline pilot. The first words out of my kids mouths (no joke) was airplane. I started flying internationally by myself at the tender age 5 and never stopped. Yes, one can say that travel by air is more than just a job; it’s a way of life.

As a woman in business, I travel a great deal for work. New cities and strange places are common place and I find myself energized and fascinated by new experiences. Does that sound like I jump on a plane and embrace the “adventure”? No. Not so much. In addition to being a world traveler I’m also a complete control freak. While some of my colleagues throw themselves into the experience without as much as a hotel reservation prior to arrival, the thought alone makes my planner self break into cold sweat.

Over the years I have compiled a top ten list that has helped make my life as a female solo traveler a breeze and as with most things, it starts with Google:

For even the shortest of business trips, I look up the airport map, ground transportation and the neighborhood of my hotel. Having a sense of where I’m going once I arrive (yes, that even means taking a right or left out of the airport gate) makes me feel more confident, and thus, I don’t have that concerned “where am I going” look as I exit the airplane.

I have finally gotten the science (forget art) of ‘packing light’ down. Wear one black or neutral color pant suit on the plane that you can mix and match different knit tops with; knits take less space, don’t wrinkle easily and are much more versatile than woven tops. My zip lock bag with travel size toiletries is always stocked, and I have an extra set of makeup standing by for any trip.

Heavy books were replaced with the Kindle; my new best friend. Enough said. If you don’t have one yet, go buy one. You will never look back.

There are three things that always go in my purse; my concealer, mascara and cell phone charger. Everything else you can get in any given drugstore in any given country, should the airline (gasp!) happen to lose your luggage or some other luggage mishap happen. Why concealer and mascara? Anyone in need of either on a regular basis know that there are a million bad ones that make you look like a scared raccoon but that ONE good one can only be found in that one certain counter in that rarely found department store. You would have no luck in your everyday Walgreens. As for the cell phone charger; have you ever tried to find a charger for your specific (either archaic or so new nobody carries it) Blackberry model when you really need one?

Check in online. I don’t like lines and get anxiety if I have to stand in a two mile long line to check in. While we’re on the airport topic, it is a little known fact that there is always a less busy TSA security checkpoint in large airports. Find them. They’re usually located on the fringes of the terminals. However, most people go with the flow and thus, all file into the same TSA checkpoint in the middle of the terminal. Counteract this by following tip # 1; do your airport research. It can save you hours.

I realize that a two hour delay might make you miss your meeting with the most important SVP ever. However, yelling at gate agents accomplishes nothing. Absolutely nothing. Except for the possibility that your seat assignment got “lost” and you may now be stuck in the middle seat in the last row.

Be extra nice to flight attendants. No matter how rude they may be (which as we all know, never happens but just in case). There may not be an immediate reward, but take my word for it, this group deserves kindness. And just once in a while, your kindness will pay off with a complimentary glass of wine or an extra snack box.

Unless you have a bulky and large roll-on-board (see tip # 2; avoid the roll on board at all cost and opt for a nice duffel bag which is much more pliable), there is no reason for you to waste your precious 15-20 minutes standing in a line to board. You already have your seat assignment, you have your flexible bag that can go under a seat or in the last ten inches remaining in the overheard compartment. You’re good. Sit back, finish your coffee and enjoy boarding without the line.

Walk into hotels with a confident swagger that smacks of your importance in the world, followed by a mega watt smile as you approach the check in agent. Never ever forget to ASK about an upgrade, even if you are a general peon member. My husband is always mortified when I ask, yet he’s the first to squeal of delight at the palatial bathroom in the suites we usually get upgraded to. Hotels, restaurants, and yes, sometimes even airlines … have excess premium inventory that the agents have at their discretion. You may not always get it, but if you smile, appear deeply grateful for whatever you get and just ask – it’s amazing how something as simple as a smile, a question and appreciation can translate into a luxe experience.

Sorry, I don’t do the adventurous solo dining. When I travel solo I am anti-social. Just like I don’t like chatty seat mates, I don’t see the “adventure” in solo dining. There must be some travel tips for that somewhere else but I wouldn’t know. I’m a busy mom and manager; the whole concept of ROOM SERVICE is heaven!

As a female traveler and airline employee, I have learned good air travel through trial and error. I now know everything from which tiny airports I can connect through in the case of bad weather to which terminal in any of the thousands of airports around the world you can get really good fish tacos (SEA is one!). I have beautiful children, a loving family and a solid career – a rich rewarding life that keeps me very busy. That said, when my travel begins, from my first visit to Google to delighting in the room service menu, none of those roles matter. For a few days, I become the female version of George Clooney in “Up in the Air” (not the girlfriend mind you!) and I feel completely free as I soar 37,000 feet above life as usual.

That is what solo travel is to me; freedom.

Have you made a habit of practicing niceness as Maggie recommends? What trials and errors have you experienced in perfecting good air travel habits?

Lady Travel Talk: Independent Travels

We are pleased to introduce our 5th guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series. Today's guest blogger is Michele Loeper, co-founder of CMYK Growth a local marketing consultancy.

Michele is a seasoned marketer with more than 15 years experience in the areas of branding and advertising. She has worked on both the agency and the client sides of the business, having worked for such brands as Pfizer, Armstrong Flooring, Capital Blue Cross, HERSHEYPARK, Turkey Hill Dairy, and Hershey's Chocolate USA. She loves to write when she can, and lives for those light-bulb moments.

Today Michele shares and reminisces about her flying experiences and falling in love with independent travel.

Traveling alone has always been invigorating to me. I feel fiercely independent when I hop on a plane alone. I embrace the freedom (from the day-to-day responsibilities at home), and face the adventure head on. And let’s face it, traveling these days is often an adventure, if nothing else.
I travel for business quite often, and while I don’t always love leaving my family behind, I choose to look at travel as a sign of how far I’ve come…and how blessed I am as a woman to be able to have such a rewarding and independent career.

I will admit, It’s difficult to see flying as anything but burdensome these days, what with all the heightened security, new airline fees, restrictions on carry-on items….there’s a lot to feel “bothered” by. But I’d like to challenge you to see it differently.

My love for travel began in my early 20s when my first employer sent me to a training workshop in Chicago. Not only did I fall in love with that wonderful city, I LOVED the feeling of flying -- the feeling that I was going…somewhere. I remember sitting on that plane thinking of my beloved grandmother, and how she never even had a driver’s license. But there I was, at 24 years old, boarding a plane with a ticket purchased by my employer, off to a big city, all by myself. I guess I felt like I arrived.

I traveled a few more times in my 20s, mostly on business. I’ve been to LA twice, San Francisco twice, San Diego, Florida, New York City, and other less exciting locals. But it wasn’t until I turned 30 that I had my first real “adventure” that pushed my boundaries and took me outside of my comfort zone.

My best friend and I took ourselves to Paris for our 30th birthdays. We booked the tickets after a late night phone call. She lived in Boston, I lived in Harrisburg. We decided to fly out of Dulles International Airport. I could drive there easily, and she could fly there from Boston. It was a perfect plan. We would meet in Dulles and board our flight to Paris!

The day of our trip, I arrived at the airport gate only to find that my dear friend was nowhere in sight. This was before the days of Blackberrys and iPhones. I could not get in touch with her. After hearing the final boarding call, standing there at the gate I decided that I had no choice…it was time to board the plane and I was NOT going home. So, I boarded the plane alone to Paris. Not knowing where my friend was, or if I’d see her across the “big pond.” Oh, I should also mention that SHE was the one versed in French. I knew how to say “Hello” and ask for red wine. Beyond that, I was a little helpless.

So, while on the plane, a stranger among strangers…no friend in sight, I did what any sensible young woman would do, I enjoyed the complimentary wine…lots of it, and then fell asleep. I’m not sure I can articulate the vulnerability I felt as I walked off that plane at Charles De Gaulle airport in Paris. I had never been out of the country before. I didn’t speak the language. I had no clue how to get to the hotel…or even how to pronounce the hotel. All I had was a copy of Foder’s Paris, 1999 to guide me. Oh, and I was hung-over!

So, I approached a woman at what I assumed was their customer service desk and inquired about my friend. I, of course, began with the obligatory “Bon Jour!” (which in retrospect must have sounded obnoxious, at best). I then attempted to give her my friend’s name and inquired as to whether or not she had been looking for me. In my tired state this seemed like the perfect thing to do.

The woman stared at me…blankly. Then muttered something, in what I can only describe as an angry, condescending, dismissive tone…and shooed me away. I felt defeated.

I am still amazed at how calm I was at that time. Perhaps it had something to do with the jet leg…or the complimentary wine, or the simple fact that I really truly was elated to be in Paris – even if that meant spending the week alone. I was determined to tackle this city and to make the best of my indulgent birthday present.

But Just as I was on my way to the currency exchange counter, I heard this beautiful and very loud voice yell my name. I turn around and there was my friend. Smiling, looking just as tired as I was, waving uncontrollably. It turned out that Logan Airport in Boston rerouted her flight to London. How nice of them. Her flight from London landed in Paris just moments after mine did. We stood there laughing and hugging for a few minutes…just letting it all sink in. I think I knew, even at that moment, that I would never forget that trip…and that I would always strive to feel that independent.

I allowed myself to think about what I was going to do that week, if I couldn’t find Steph. Of course I would have called her friends in Boston, her employer, her family…just to make sure she was OK. But if she was unable to come for whatever reason, I was still determined to persevere. To embrace the freedom of being independent, and to simply allow myself to enjoy one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Turns out I did just that, but with my dear friend by my side. It was truly the girls’ vacation of a lifetime.

I have traveled a lot since that trip to Paris more than 10 years ago. And now, as a mother, I have to say that traveling does become a bit more stressful. It’s hard leaving my loved ones, and as a Mommy, I do sometimes feel guilty when I can’t be home with her.

But regardless of that, I still enjoy the simple fact that we live in a world where I can board a plane and travel anywhere...escaping from the day-to-day, even if just for a while. I like to think about the generations of women who have come before us, who could only have dreamed of such independence.

So, the next time you’re sitting on the tarmac, put down the Blackberry and look out the window. Stare out into the sky and embrace your independence. Because regardless of how annoying security was, or how expensive your check-in bag was, or how bad the airport food was…the simple truth is that you are going somewhere. And that is a beautiful thing.

"Every flyer who ventures across oceans to distant lands is a potential explorer; in his or her breast burns the same fire that urged adventurers of old to set forth in their sailing-ships for foreign lands." -- Jean Batten, 'Alone in the Sky' 1979.

Have you had an experiences similar to what Michele shared? Do you have on pivotal trip that resulted in you falling in love with flying or traveling?

Lady Travel Talk: Great Finds and Foods

We are pleased to introduce our 4th guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series. Today's guest blogger is Mandy Arnold, director of marketing for LightStyles, a regional high-end window and door distributor, and a strategic branding and public relations consultant.

Mandy has clients up and down the East Coast and travels regularly for both business and pleasure.

Today Mandy shares insights on living local while traveling, tips for discovering great regional flavor and shopping.

I really enjoy traveling, but as a business traveler I often don’t have much time to peruse city streets to discover great hidden gems. So, I rely on a few tricks (eNewsletters and apps) that allow me to spend less time researching and more time experiencing.

A couple of things you should know about me… I’m married to a chef and consider myself to be somewhat of an unofficial food critic (see my reviews on Yelp.com) and I love to shop at local boutiques.

There are a few daily eNewlsetters I would recommend for women (and men) who share in my enthusiasm for food and finds. First, I subscribe to DailyCandy for the best insider boutique sales in the cities I frequent. They cover everything from one-day pop-up sales (where boutiques have season close outs and rent a vacant building for a day to sell inventory) to travel tips and best places to eat. Second, I’m a “member” of the Guilt Group (it doesn’t cost anything and email me if you need an invite to join). Gilt Group has a section called JetSetter that offers exclusive travel deals on boutique and high-end luxury hotels, inns and international vacations. While I can’t afford these vacations all the time, I read the blog posts and editor picks for tips on the area. And every now and again, I book a domestic stay for a special weekend.

Beyond these daily reads, when I’m planning a trip I start with visiting the local bureau of tourism for the region. You can easily find the local office or other visitor’s bureau websites using the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory. These sites will usually have the most up-to-date list of annual events and information on historic or downtown districts. If these are not easily located, my default is Frommers. Frommers offers insights that most other sites won’t offer, like what areas of the city are safe places to walk, what to avoid and who to ask for at local venues for exceptional service. During my travels, historic and downtown districts have proven to be gathering places for great food finds. Once I pinpoint an area that meets two criteria – walking distance to entertainment and easy airport access – I search for what others have discovered.
If I’ve never been to a town or city before, Wikitravel is a fast and easy tool for identifying some unique history or local foods worth exploring in the region.

Ahhh, now on to finding my favorite part of the trip: FOOD! I usually start with Yelp.com (website or the smartphone app) to search for a great place to eat that’s centrally located so I can walk around before or after dinner. Walking also helps to justify over indulgence in the local cuisine. However, when I don’t have time to preplan a trip, I have become a big fan of Aloqa, a mobile service that pushes out notifications on local events, music, shopping, interesting places and more, all based on GPS location. Aloqa also syncs with MeetUp, so you can get a list of small and large events in the area to attend. Some of the best trips I have had included some sort of impromptu TweetUp or MeetUp.

So, with all these tools, I bet you’re wondering what I’ve actually found. Well, since this is just one blog post, I’ll touch on just a handful of my favorite finds.

Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston has the best walking tours I have ever been on. The historic district, which is most of the downtown city, is a visual experience like no other. If you’re a lover of vibrant architecture and beautiful landscaping, then this region of Low Country is for you. There is a great little MoonPie store downtown where you can pick up plenty of graham cracker and marshmallow inspired paraphernalia (MoonPies originated not far from here). Don’t be mistaken, this is by no means the impetus of your culinary experience in Charleston!
Have lunch at Magnolia’s, and if it’s cool enough, enjoy a cup of Blue Crab Bisque. For lovers of seafood, hit Hank’s Seafood Restaurant for dinner and be sure to order the Oyster Sampler and the Tuna Tartar.
If you visit the area for a few days, try to plan a day to visit Pawley’s Island or Kiawah Island.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Ever discover a place that you felt you shouldn’t share for the sake of it becoming too popular? Well, The Franklin Mortgage and Insurance Company is one of mine. Yes, that is the name, but it’s not what it seems. Located on 18th Street in Philly, this bar sits behind a nondescript black door with no signage. With very limited seating, this place is where the real bartenders work. If you find extreme pleasure in the fine art of libations, this place will be well worth the wait. I personally recommend the Lucy Leave (raspberry infused brandy, Lillet, demerara, orange and cucumber).

Recently during a stay in Philly, I just happened to get a DailyCandy newsletter about a pop-up sale going on that same day right around the corner from where I was having breakfast and I scored a pair of boutique shoes for 85% off (Translation: I paid $37.50 for a $250 pair of shoes!).
If you’re spending the weekend in town and arrive with an empty stomach that will require massive amounts of food, stop by Cuba Libre to enjoy a rich Cuban atmosphere. If you’re not too hungry and just want to relax with a glass of wine while nibbling on an assortment of charcuterie complemented with the perfect selection of breads and apricot, honey and mustard spreads, visit Amada. For bunch in Philly, I like The Plough & Stars. The Plough has an outdoor seating area where you can watch the city awake slowly as everyone emerges from a Sunday slumber.

I hope my tips help you discover some great finds and food on your next trip.

Where are some of your favorite places to dine while traveling? Do you have a place that you've made a tradition of going?

Lady Travel Talk: Staying Safe without Losing Adventure

We are pleased to introduce our 3rd guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk series, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing. Today's guest blogger is Brenda Boitson, she is a Content Producer for Associated Content, a blogger and first time novelist.

She works for an architectural firm, storage rental facility during the day, in addition to her freelance work for Associated. Brenda will graduate with her Associate's Degree in Business this fall. Actively involved in sarcoma and young grief awareness due to personal experience, Brenda maintains a blog about her life as a widow.

Brenda is resident of Lancaster, PA and spends a lot of her time exploring the world around her through various forms of travel: road trips, camping, flying, on her bike, etc. She's embarked on numerous road trips to nearly a dozen National Parks, has visited 37 states, and enjoys camping, hiking and surf fishing.

Today Brenda shares insights from her journeys that have kept her adventures safe, not sorry:

Post-high school graduation, a girlfriend and I drove from Pennsylvania to California and back in 15 days, camping most of the way. That trip was just the start of an insane love affair with the open road, the clear blue skies, and being anywhere but here.

I have taken my various trips by road, and by air, and have learned along the way how to stay safe as a women traveler. While I am fiercely independent, I also understand that does not mean I need to ignore warning signs.

With restrictions on the types of protection you can bring with your person on an airplane, it has become harder to protect ourselves with common devices such as pepper spray. Around town, it stays with me all the time, but when I travel it is prohibited.

Before you leave on any trip, streamline your belongings. That means you need to clean out your purse, or decide to leave it at home. Bring only the necessary cash, credit cards, and identification-leave everything else in a secure spot at home. The more you bring the greater chance you have of dropping something, or losing your entire identity on a trip.

Over the years, I have learned to keep a bag ready to go with an extra set of toiletries so that all I have to do is throw in some clothes, and I am good to go. It has helped me to stay organized, and never forget a thing. This also allows me to make more spontaneous trips, as I can leave at a moment’s notice. Make sure you know where all your important documents are stored that are required for traveling so you can grab and go.

Another good pre-trip necessity is to program emergency contact cell phone numbers into your phone. Who would you want called if you are found lying in the street? While I hope this never happens to any of you, it will save emergency officials time and possibly your life to be able to call a family member or friend immediately. I have those people listed as “Emergency Contact #1, #2 and #3” in my phone.

I would highly consider purchasing travel insurance. It is quick and easy to purchase online, and there are many reputable companies that offer this service. It can be done on your way to the airport, and may save you thousands of dollars if you become ill or have an accident on your trip.

When flying, I opt not to use the overhead compartment on the airlines as my luggage storage. I check all my bags but one that contains my check in necessities, along with clean underwear, toothbrush, deodorant, contact solution, and of course, a good book. While my luggage has been lost in the past, I find that dragging my luggage through the airports weighs me down. I feel better protected with having it stored away to be lost at someone else’s expense, versus making me a target.

When you arrive at your destination, familiarize yourself with key locations. Find out where the nearest hospital is located, make sure you have important contact numbers in the case of an emergency, and stay organized. Usually when I arrive at my destination, I throw my suitcase on the ground, and collapse on the bed. It is always good to unpack immediately to make sure you have all the items you brought with yourself, and to store away important items you cannot risk losing.

You can become sufficient in protecting yourself just by becoming aware of your surroundings. Stay around groups of people, look down all alleys you pass, and never be afraid to look behind you like a paranoid tourist. So often I catch myself riffling through my purse trying to find my lip balm, and that distracts me from my surroundings. Moments like these put us at risk for becoming a potential victim. Use a purse that goes across your torso, and again-streamline, streamline, streamline. Traveling is a great time to become organized!

Before you leave your destination, re-organize your suitcase, carry on, and purse. Make a list of the items you purchased at your destination in case of having to claim them. Double check your room before you check out and always provide a tip for the cleaning staff. Don’t forget that clean pair of underwear in your carryon bag. One never knows when bad weather will strike and an unexpected overnight layover will occur; no one wants to go commando on an airplane!

By far, traveling spontaneously is one of the best adventures you can take. However, we should never lose sight of preparation. You can be prepared for spontaneity if you stay organized, and still enjoy the beauty of exploring the world.

Do you, like Brenda, take time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings when traveling?
What have you found to be the best method to do this?
Another point that we found interesting from Brenda's post is the recommendation of checking your bags to lighten your load once in the airport. Do you agree?

Lady Travel Talk: Safe & Exciting Travel Made Easy

We are pleased to introduce our 2nd guest blogger of the Lady Travel Talk, a mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This series covers a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series. Today's guest blogger is Tracey C. Jones, she is a President of Tremendous Life Books.

Her father, the late Charlie “Tremendous” Jones, started Executive Books for the purpose of changing the world one book at a time. With an exceptional leadership background, Tracey became the company’s new president in 2009 in order to carry on her father’s legacy.

Tracey was born and raised in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. As a high school graduate anxious to see the world, she attended New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, NM, earning an associates degree and an appointment to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1988, she earned her degree and commission and entered the Air Force as an Aircraft Maintenance Officer. Her first assignment to Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina took her overseas, where she participated in the first Gulf War. Upon her return to the States, Tracey moved to Bitburg Air Base, Germany and then RAF Lakenheath, UK where she honed her operational skills and filled command roles of increasing responsibility.

After twelve years as a commissioned officer, Tracey left the Air Force in 2000 and moved to Austin, Texas working for a top manufacturing firm in the semiconductor industry. There, she continued to develop her skills, this time in the civilian workforce as a project manager. While there, she earned an MBA in Global Management. Tracey recently moved back to Pennsylvania from St. Louis where she most recently was the project manager in charge of a diverse base operations service contract for the government.

Today Tracey shares with us a series of tips and trips that have helped her experience safe and exciting travel:

Traveling is one of my very favorite things in life. I grew up accompanying my father on business trips via planes, cruise ships and the infamous RV. I then continued my love of travel by joining the Air Force, where I got to fly in all types of aircraft to all sorts of locations. Once you get your routine down, travel for me is an escape, even if it’s for business reasons. It’s the one time I can sleep uninterrupted by the dog and cats vying for space on the bed all night long. While I am in those hotel rooms, I also imagine that my own personal house is that decoratively furnished, clean, and organized. What if I could fit all my belongings into a singular closet or dresser? I fantasize about my life being that clean and light.

But back to reality; I’ve learned a few tips along the journey’s way. First comes the packing. This is my very least favorite part of the trip and one I put off until about an hour before leaving for the airport. Since 9/11, the sky rocketing cost of fuel and the economic woes of the airlines, baggage has become a costly issue. So you’ve got to pack lean. Like any real woman, my instincts tell me to pack 20 pairs of shoes for a long weekend. But when it comes right down to it, just take two, a black one and a brown one. If its summer, indulge since sandals don’t take much space at all.

Also, if you don’t work out at home, don’t bother thinking you’ll work out on a business trip or vacation. Tennis shoes are big and heavy unless you plan on traveling in them. As far as the type of clothing, I would highly recommend the Travelers line from Chico’s. There’s even a store at the Hershey Outlets and they are always sending a catalogue full of further discounts. Their Travelers line has that name for a reason. The material can be balled up in your suitcase and will come out of the other side looking like new. I bring several skirts, pants, shirts made of this material with a belt or jacket to mix it up. This line covers the gambit from professional, to funky chic, to casual.

Now onto the personal items that fill your carry on. I always have the little dollar store plastic bottles on hand that I keep my shampoo and conditioner in. Or you can always use the hotel’s samples. Another huge advancement for women is the fact that almost all hotels now have a hair dryer in each room which saves a lot of room and weight. Every time you get a sample of perfume, keep it for your travel trip. That way you can bring that instead of running the risk of having your bigger bottle leak in your bag or, God forbid, get confiscated due to size. Lastly, I use Arbonne skin care products. They have their whole skin care line in these little travel containers and gorgeous gold mesh bag that I worship. When it’s time to travel I just grab the whole thing and slip it in my carry on.

With the strict limit of two carry-ons and more and more airlines using smaller regional jets, hauling a laptop if you don’t have, to is a nightmare. There’s also the hassle of getting it through security and having to pay fees for hotels that don’t offer free WiFi. My biggest headache relief was when I finally turned in my old phone for a Palm Pre that cost me $150 after rebate. I’m not promoting a particular brand, but do upgrade to a phone where you can synch your emails and review them while traveling. That way you can stay involved from afar and call if you need to. I can check work emails via Outlook, as well as my AOL account, and take a picture and load it immediately to Facebook to show everyone what a mahvelous time I’m having. Don’t let the technology scare you. Once you upgrade, you’ll wonder what took you so long.

Favorite girls' destinations are anywhere that has shopping, great dining, sightseeing, cool places for us to get dressed up and go out to, and spas. First and foremost is Las Vegas for so many reasons. The family traveled to Las Vegas when I was five years old and I’ve never forgotten the colors, the sounds, and the vibrancy. Vegas has something for everyone and you can go as high end or as budget conscious as you want. You can wear what you want. You can dine at award winning restaurants or hit the buffet. And the free people-watching is priceless. The lounges always have free entertainment, or you can pay to see one of the many amazing shows.

Security issues should always be taken into consideration. Only pack the credit card(s) you need. In other words, don’t take your whole wallet if you don’t need it. Don’t bring the high dollar jewelry unless you know the hotel has a safe in the room, is guaranteed in the event of theft, or you intend to keep it on your person. I always bring the costume stuff so if something happens, no big deal. After all, what better place to wear huge CZ baubles than Vegas, where nobody knows if they are real or not. Also, unless you are traveling out of country, leave your passport at home as well.

Be aware that when you arrive at the larger airports, you may be approached by taxi vendors that are not approved by the airport, i.e., scam artists. If in doubt, ask a sky hop where the approved waiting lines for taxis are. I also MapQuest how far my hotel is from the airport and the general direction so I can ensure I am not getting taken on a wild and expensive goose chase. It also never hurts because sometimes the taxi drivers do not know where something is and don’t have a GPS in their car! I’ve had this happen more than once.

Once in the hotel, ask the concierge what activities are going on or if there are hotel shuttles to tourist activities nearby. Another piece of advice: I am a very light sleeper, so I always see if there are rooms available on the business level. If not, I always ask that I not be near a wedding party, high school reunion, or any other large group where folks are going from room to room all hours of the day and night. When you get to your room and before you unpack, make sure everything works from the hot water to the fan. I once got all unpacked and ready for bed when I went to turn on the heater and soon found that my room was right by the heating unit. It made so much noise I could not sleep and had to change rooms.

Hope these tips help and that your travels are exciting and safe!!

Which of Tracey's tips and trips resignated with you the most? Do you have something to add to her content that you feel other female travelers would benefit from?

You can read more from Tracey at her blog.

Lady Travel Talk: Mon bagage est manquant, pouvez-vous m'aider?

We are pleased to introduce, Lady Travel Talk, a new guest blogger mini-series tailor made for female travelers. This new series will cover a host of topics related to the travel experiences of each of the ladies contributing to the series. Today's guest blogger is Laura Stocker, she is a member of the leadership team of Tin Cans Unlimited. Laura travels extensively for not only business, but for pleasure as well.

Laura spent more than 10 years managing public relations and destination marketing for Hershey Park and Zoo America, before focusing her attention on helping business and industry navigate the World Wide Web. One of the founders of Tin Cans Unlimited, Laura has presented programs and workshops as far away as Amsterdam and Paris and as local as the Pennsylvania Association of Municipalities and the Pennsylvania Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus. Her areas of expertise include on and offline marketing, public relations, branding, search engine optimization, non-profit marketing, social networking, crisis communications and tourism marketing.

Today Laura will share her thoughts on travel etiquette, learning native tongues, and much more:


I was blessed to grow up in a family that traveled extensively. Beginning as a 20-something (yes, some 20 odd years ago!), I reveled in multiple opportunities for solo travel – both for business and pleasure!

If I did the math, I am certain that I have traveled more independently, than with others, including my own husband and family.

My first solo ventures were business related – day trips, mostly by car and train – but as I grew more confident, I began traveling by myself for pleasure as well. In recent years, I’ve even managed to combine the two – Paris on business, but with plans to stay an extra few days, for example.

Along the way, I’ve had to deal with getting mugged (managing to keep my bag!) and getting myself through customs and immigration alone. I’ve lost count of the non-English-speaking countries where I’ve had to deal with trying to recover lost luggage!
Here’s what I have learned:

1. Courtesy matters. A little etiquette goes a long way when trying to get upgraded on a flight, or determining if your hotel room will overlook a busy highway in a foreign country. I have always found that merely being polite will open many doors.

2. Learn the language. I know how to say “where is the powder room” in a half dozen languages, along with all the niceties (please, thank you, good morning, etc.). I also teach myself how to ask for help before I leave the US. Best phrase I ever taught myself? “Pardon me for butchering your beautiful language, but could you please…” Disarms them every time.

3. Make copies. Of everything - your tickets, itinerary, passport and any and all visas. Leave a set at home with a trusted friend or family, carry the originals with you, and leave a set in the hotel safe.

4. Honor traditions and customs. Research before leaving home will tell you that women in Eastern Europe don’t wander the streets alone after dark. Or that in many places of worship, bare arms are considered offensive.

5. Project confidence. Don’t advertise the fact that you’re a woman traveling alone. Use your business card, not your home address, as a luggage tag. Carry your cell phone, and have a “pretend” conversation with someone if you feel uncomfortable. I’ve even gone so far as to take a photo of the front of a building (capturing the address) and emailing it from my cell phone back to the office, when I once felt uncomfortable.

6. Be safe. I never feel silly asking hotel staff who knock on my room door to show identification. I am always aware of fire exits, working smoke detectors and deadbolt locks.

7. Check in. Befriend the front desk staff. Make sure you smile and wave when you walk by. Check in with the office and/or family and friends daily. No one should have to wonder where you are.

Finally – be prepared. On a recent business trip to Miami, my traveling companion was repeatedly surprised by the things I “just happened” to have with me – from extra batteries, to a small sewing kit, to wrinkle release spray. My business is largely tech – and I travel with my own power strip and extension cord – and used both repeatedly. I also packed a variety of snacks, and my own neck pillow – and no, I wasn’t over packed in the least – just carefully packed!

Traveling, particularly by air, and with an overseas destination, is my very favorite thing to do. And I do it fearlessly.

Well prepared, and well-aware – but fearless!

What are your thoughts on what Laura has suggested to us? Have you made anything part of your routine travel habits as a female flyer that Laura didn't touch upon?

You can read more from Laura at her blog, Through the Looking Glass.