Travel and tips

“Paradise” is a word often used to describe the islands of the Caribbean. It seems that one visit leads to a lifetime’s love, and that’s certainly true when you choose to stay at an exquisite boutique hotel.
Where is it?The Caribbean islands sit in the Caribbean Sea, in between the southern tip of Florida and the north coast of South America. In total, there are more than 7000 islands in this area, but only a few of those are regular tourist destinations, including Antigua, Barbados, Haiti, Saint Lucia and the Virgin Islands.
Where can I stay?There’s no shortage of lovely places to stay on any of the most popular islands and the laid-back culture that’s spread throughout the Caribbean means that most places are a joy to stay in. There are, however, some really special boutique hotels where guests are given the very best of everything – design, dйcor, food, service and hospitality. These hotels keep the number of available rooms low so that you’re not bumping into crowds at breakfast or constrained in any way. On Barbuda, the barefoot luxury of The Beach House’s twenty one rooms is just one of the reasons it draws discerning honeymooners and romantic couples. The hotel’s boutique feel is accentuated by the wonderful service that guests receive. Alternatively, the Lone Star Hotel and Restaurant on Barbados has just eight rooms, all of them with beautiful contemporary styling – a simplicity that matches the landscape – and each of them with access onto an amazing stretch of beach. Or try the Montpelier Plantation Inn on St. Kitts and Nevis, where a sympathetic and classic renovation has resulted in a cool, sophisticated retreat in amongst 30 acres of wonderful tropical plants.
What can I see?Most people visit the Caribbean with thoughts of lying on the beach and swimming in the sea uppermost in their minds. But there’s more to the Caribbean islands than the fabulous coastline. Learn about the history of the island people by visiting museums and plantations, or by viewing the wonderful art and craft. Diving and snorkelling are always popular and glass-bottomed boats and undersea vehicles let you experience sea-life as you’ve never seen it before. There’s also plenty of opportunity for other water sports, fishing, golf and horse-riding and, if you’re staying at one of our boutique hotels, the concierge and staff will be delighted to help you plan your day and book trips to other islands or on special excursions.
How do I get around?Depending on which island you choose, there is a variety of transport. There are bus services on most island but they vary in quality and regularity. You can hire a car on the larger islands, but drivers don’t always come first, so watch for pedestrians, cyclists and animals. You will also need a driving licence or permit as required by the island, which is inexpensive to buy, but you must bring your own driving licence in order to get one. Bikes are available for hire on most islands and there are usually taxi services available. To move between islands, use the local ferry services.

Thailand is possibly the most-visited country in south-east Asia. The irresistible combination of fine beaches, ancient monuments and civilisations and renowned cuisine makes a holiday here an absolute must.
Where is it?Thailand is in south-east Asia, bordering Malaysia to the south, Myanmar (Burma) to the north, and Cambodia and Laos to the east. It benefits from coastal stretches both in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand.
Where can I stay?Thailand is a popular country to visit – Bangkok is a 24-hour city with hotels to match whilst smaller cities and coastal resorts have also made the most of the constant tourist trade. Travellers are becoming more sophisticated, however, which has resulted in a number of boutique hotels opening to cater for the discerning guest. For those who love the beach, try the luxury of Aleenta; a small, private beach hotel which houses just 17 suites and 2 private villas. With unspoilt beach on your doorstep, an infinity pool and romantic breakfast and dinner settings, beach-life rarely gets better. Alternatively, go for the lights and sounds of Bangkok, where you could stay at the Ibrik City; a very chic hotel right in the middle of the business district and next to the famous “Blue Elephant” cooking school. With just three rooms, this is a modern yet homely hotel and great transport connections mean that this boutique hotel is the ideal base for days and nights in Bangkok.
What can I see?Thailand is renowned for its ancient monuments, stupas and temples. From the sheer architectural delight of the Phimai Temple, a Hindu/Buddhist temple, to the ancient stupas in the Sukothai Historical Park, there’s much to learn about civilisations hundreds and thousands of years old and the way they affect the people of Thailand today. Don’t miss the busy and colourful markets either, and make sure that you spend time sampling the fabulous food for which Thailand is so well known. Venture away from the beaches to the rivers and mountains of Thailand’s interior to sample a simpler way of life, or take in the energy of Bangkok with a city visit.
How do I get around?You can hire a car to get around Thailand, but it may be easier to take the train. Bangkok city is serviced by a Sky train and boat service, so there’s no need for any other transport to get you around. Outside Bangkok and closer to the coast, use the buses and trains to get about. The trains may be slower than you’re used to, but they’re comfortable. On the other hand, the buses are fast and furious, but they are cheap and air-conditioned.

Rio de Janeiro is busy, noisy and full of adventures to be had. To experience South America in full party mode, visit Rio de Janeiro at Carnaval time, but stay in a boutique hotel so that you have an oasis of calm to return to.
Where is it?Rio de Janeiro is on the Brazilian coast, looking out to the South Atlantic Ocean, with Salvador to the north and San Paulo to the south. The climate is hot all year round, with occasional rains in the summer, but the party temperature is always high.
Where can I stay?Although Rio de Janeiro attracts high-living, high-rolling visitors, it caters for a wide range of tourists, from those in palatial hotels to backpackers making their way through Brazil. For a real treat, however, book into a boutique hotel, which offers a cool, calm retreat away from the hustle and bustle of this 24-hour city. Rio de Janeiro is one of the most densely populated cities in the world and both its residents and visitors like to live life to the full while they are there. If you need to recharge your batteries, a boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay. Try the 5-roomed La Maison, which is just a stone’s throw from the beach, but once you’re inside is a haven of peace and tranquillity, with a swimming pool and sundeck for guests to use when the beach has become too busy to handle. To really get away from it all, try La Suite, a boutique hotel with just seven rooms and 180° views of the ocean, the beach and the Cagarras Islands as well as the point of Arpuador, the rock that separates Copacabana from Ipanema. Here, the beach and great shopping are only a few minutes away by car, which means that you get the best of both worlds.
What can I see?People-watching is an occupation in itself in Rio de Janeiro. Once you’ve had your fill of beach beauties and surf dudes, take yourself off to some of the many museums that show the works of a range of Brazilian artists; or take a walk in some of the beautiful tropical gardens. If you want to spend your time walking rather than dancing, then take a trip into the mountains for some unforgettable views.
How do I get around?Travelling in Rio de Janeiro can be an adventure. Buses are cheap, but not necessarily reliable or safe, so you’re advised not to take valuables with you if you decide to take a bus across town. Taxis are a more comfortable option, and usually a safer one, although you still need to be careful. A good hotel will be able to arrange affordable, safe taxi services for you. For an altogether different experience, try the subway which, although it doesn’t cover the whole city, is clean, cheap and fast.

Bali’s idyllic location, constant warm temperature and welcoming people have made it a key destination for travellers from all over the world.
Where is it?Bali is one of the Indonesian islands, set in the Indian Ocean, just 8 degrees south of the equator. It is popular for romantic breaks, honeymoons and weddings as well as being a key surfing destination.
Where can I stay?Bali is a haven of warm climates, blue seas and wide sandy beaches. There are big hotels in Bali just as there are in any beach-led country, but the very best hotels are those that reduce the number of rooms and focus instead on giving guests the very best holiday experience. From a completely spoiled and luxurious boutique hotel to simple but perfectly designed accommodation, you can find a hotel that puts you at your ease and makes relaxation your only consideration. Take the Puri Ganesha Villas in the north of the island, bordered by green mountains on one side and the sea on the other, Puri Ganesha is a collection of just four two-storey villas, each with its access onto the private beach and its own seawater swimming pool. Or try the Nusa Dua, one of the newest boutique hotels on Bali, where 20 exclusive pavilions provide accommodation for their lucky occupants, with butler service and private pools.
What can I see?One of the obvious attractions of Bali is the warm coastline and fabulous beaches. If you’re not a total beach bum though, there are many other areas that are worth a visit, including Ganung Batur, a volcanic cone with a lake in the surrounding caldera. The landscape is worth the climb, but the climate at this height is very different from that of the beaches, so be prepared for much cooler, damp conditions. Romantics could try the Bali Orchid Garden – the climate in Bali particularly suits these gorgeous flowers – or visit one of the ancient shrines and temples that dot the landscape.
How do I get around?If you ever decide to leave your villa to go anywhere other than the beach – and you should, because otherwise you’ll miss nearly all that Bali has to offer – then use the cheap bus system, or for slightly more money, but also more comfort, use the regular tourist buses. You can also rent a motorcycle or bike for a slightly more adventurous trip around the island.

Aircraft charter service can turn your travel experience into pleasure. From start to finish, you can have the quality time to take care of your business or personal items while someone else handles the travel plans. You can rest assured that a courteous, professional crew will be taking care of you and your guests.
You may also take advantage of the concierge service that the aircraft charter company has to offer. As you can expect, no detail is too minor, no request too large. This service will make your life easier by handling all the details of your travel, dining and entertainment arrangements and amenities. This concierge can meet the needs of the most discerning traveler. Your concierge is available 24/7 to assist you.
Executive travel is for you. VIP service includes everything from today’s newspaper to your choice of today’s extensive selection of unparalleled culinary delights. No request if too large or small. What better way to travel? One could get used to this! And, if you’d like, private jet membership is available. With private membership to an aircraft jet charter service, you will receive this type of service whenever and wherever you travel. This will be your style of travel.
Private membership to an aircraft charter company allows you to experience all the benefits of owning a private jet, without the commitments and costs normally associated with ownership or a fractional jet ownership program. This is especially attractive for those on the go. You are privy to a network of light, mid-size and heavy executive jets that are available at a moment’s notice wherever and whenever you need to go. Most aircraft charter companies also have turbo jets, piston props and helicopters. This availability ensures that the perfect aircraft will be utilized for every private flight; whether flying simultaneous trips, transcontinental flights, or even short island-hopping. Usually, a call to the 24-hour call center provides the aircraft you need, including large, medium or small jets. In addition to equipment, a staff is ready to accommodate you on-demand. In today’s complicated world, aircraft charter service offers endless benefits to travelers. Think NetJets and other fractional jet ownership programs and plans. Certain aircraft and helicopter charter companies also offer solutions with your logistical issues. Whether it is transporting cargo or emergency equipment, they will assume the responsibility of the task at hand. Transporting express items or even delivering emergency supplies to disaster areas are commonplace for these companies. Equipment and flight crews are ready to go where they are needed.
If your travel needs are even more extensive than the business traveler, you may also consider aircraft ownership. The aircraft charter service has extensive experience in the field of aircraft sales and finance. This proves to be a valuable resource in the complex negotiation and completion of an aircraft purchase. Should you need a management arrangement for your aircraft, this can be taken care of as well. Not all executive travel is for business. Have you experienced the executive trip to the great outdoors? That can be accommodated. Aircraft jet charter is available to take you to any place for your special get-a-way. Whether you need to get to that remote resort or find a new, secluded spot, an aircraft charter service can take you there.
For example, if Alaska is your destination, you can be comfortable knowing that your “bush pilots” spend a great deal of time flying to numerous outdoor activity areas. They have the expertise of where to go for best success within their area of operations. Whether it’s a weeklong fishing trip for record rainbows or the mighty king salmon, or a daytrip to view brown bear, an aircraft charter service will provide the personalized service that can make your Alaskan adventure a trip of a lifetime. And they will also provide exciting itineraries well within the average man’s budget. If hunting is your desire, an aircraft charter will provide the finest in Alaskan hunting. Specializing in drop-off, unguided hunting for moose, caribou and black bear, they will accommodate your needs and assure you a tremendous experience.
There are literally hundreds of aircraft charter companies in existence, and they typically perform one, several or all of these four main services: leasing (sometimes selling) aircraft for private use, performing aircraft maintenance, providing fuel, and aircraft management.
If you are looking to lease an aircraft for a trip, there are several ways of going about finding an aircraft jet charter company. First, you can contact the aircraft charter companies directly (they are easily found online). You’ll have to research rates, equipment available, flight time availability, etc. from each company, and then compare among them.
Second, you can contact an aircraft jet charter broker. These are similar to a travel agent that will take your requirements and match you with an aircraft charter in their network of companies. These aircraft charter brokers will handle all of the flight arrangements, including price shopping, determining the correct aircraft necessary for your trip, contacting the correct charter company, confirming insurance papers, and obtaining copies of FAA flight certificates, detailed information about the aircraft to be used, and what backup aircraft are available. Third, you can use an online auction/bid service. These online services work by having you go through a step-by-step process of identifying the dates and locations of your flight, the type of aircraft you’re looking for, and the price you’re looking to pay. These online services will submit your requirements to many of the aircraft charter companies who participate, and you will be able to choose from the resulting aircraft charter companies who submitted a bid for your flight.
It is advisable to research the safety, performance and quality of the aircraft charter company; it’s maintenance and flight crews, and the aircraft itself. In addition, you should find out whether the aircraft charter company you’re considering makes arrangements for fuel, customs, immigration, landing and over-flight permissions. Also, following flight and airport reservations, ground transportation, and catering services should be reviewed. Make sure all other essential issues have been given consideration such as anticipated departure and arrival times, potential delays and plans for overnight arrangements for aircraft and crew.
Some aircraft jet charter company’s feature services that can make a big difference in your flight experience. Certain aircraft charter companies offer ‘bare-bones’ service, while others provide an assortment of services such as a dedicated dispatch team, real-time flight monitoring, catering arrangements, coordination of fuel purchases, hotel and rental car reservations, limousine rentals, customs permits and landing clearances for international flights. Some even provide security for you and the aircraft.

Although Morocco seems a world away from our home countries, it is able to offer comparable travel options, largely due to the influence of former French rule. RailwaysThe new train station at Tangier was built by the French and, true to French repute, it is remarkably efficient, perhaps even better than back home! Trains in Morocco are very comfortable and fairly inexpensive. The state owned network, ONCF, connects a limited network of routes, but for travel between major cities they are an excellent option. Trains are reliable, comfortable, fast, and efficient. Reservations for tickets can only be made for first class journeys.
Supratours: is a bus company owned by the rail network, to cover the areas east of the Atlas mountains and south of Marrakech, which are not yet served by the train network. Buses connect smoothly to intercity trains. Tickets for combined train and bus journeys are sold in one package, known as “Rail & Route”. All train stations have clear signs and displays in Arabic and French to help you find your way around. Platform displays also indicate expected delays. Larger stations are well served by other forms of public transport, such as local buses and city cabs.
Train etiquette: Moroccans are very sociable and courteous when they travel and it’s easy to strike up a conversation. You’ll find your fellow train passengers are happy to share food and sweets. Smoking is not allowed on Moroccan trains, though many people smoke in the corridor of the train car. On cars that do not have a corridor, it’s considered rude to smoke. Safety: Moroccan trains and railway stations are reasonably safe. However, like everywhere in the world they are a magnet for petty criminals. So be vigilant, use your common sense remember:- Do not leave your luggage unattended in stations or on trains - Keep your tickets, passport, money and credit cards in a safe place away from the rest of your luggage - Be extra careful with your bags when boarding and leaving a train amongst a crowd of people - Do not sit or sleep alone in a compartment,Some travellers have reported problems with touts, particularly on trains to and from Fez. If you have trouble, the railway staff will assist you. Police are helpful and present at most train stations.
AirFlight connections to Morocco are very good and transfers to the rest of the country are equally efficient. Airports are being upgraded and new ones built, eg. at Tangier. An ‘Open skies agreement’ was recently signed ahead of the 2007 schedule and Monarch, Ryan Air and Easy Jet have all been rumoured to have signed up to Tangier and Tetouan airports. Deals Available:GB Airways, part of BA, have just announced that it will fly to Tangier shortly for 169 pounds return. Thompson also announce they will fly to Agadir for only 29 pounds each way and Atlas Blue flies to Morocco for 60 pounds return.
These deals will begin accelerating in 2006, as Morocco is still an untested market for the budget airlines, yet less than 3 hours from the UK. It will also put pressure on the flag carrier, Royal Air Maroc, to follow suit and it has recently committed to increasing its fleet by 50 per cent in 2007.
Tetouan, about 1 hour’s drive west of Tangiers, has an international airport that is little used, but the large hotel groups, Club Med, Sofitel, Accor in the area have been lobbying the governor to open it up more regularly as it is currently being used for internal flights only.
Casablanca airport serves as the nerve knot for domestic flights, with Royal Air Maroc (RAM) as its carrier. Local flights are expensive, but save a lot of time.
BusBuses are usually the cheapest form of transport and they do regular routes to almost anywhere in Morocco. They are also a safer and more comfortable option, rather than taxis.
Morocco’s intercity bus transport is privately run. There are many companies with widely varying degrees of size, comfort, punctuality, safety and service. Most companies only operate routes in a particular region.
The three main bus companies in Morocco are:- CTM - Formerly state-owned, but now a private company listed on the Casablanca stock exchange. It is the only bus operator that covers the whole country. - SATAS - Agadir-based company. Operates mainly south of its home town, but also between Casablanca, Marrakech and Agadir. - Supratours - Owned by the railway company ONCF. Routes supplement the train network to destinations south of Marrakech and to the northern cities of Tetouan and Nador. Tickets must be bought at a railway station.
Whenever you have the choice, you would be advised to us one of these three companies. Other operators may be slightly cheaper, but they can’t beat the big three in comfort and maintenance of their fleet.
Tickets are sold at bus terminals and you can get them until moments before the bus leaves. It’s recommended to get tickets a few hours in advance to be sure the bus isn’t fully booked. If you’re boarding a bus somewhere along its route, get your tickets at least a day in advance.
As soon as you set foot in a bus terminal, you will be surrounded by “courtiers” (French for “brokers”). These men know the bus routes and timetables by heart and can be extremely useful. For a small tip, you can name your destination and they will take you to the ticket window of the company that runs the next bus there.
Shared TaxiShared Taxis are one of the best features of Moroccan transport. They are usually big Mercedes Benz cars carrying a maximum of 6 passengers. Shared taxis operate on a wide variety of routes and are much quicker than the public buses. Fares are very reasonable. You can also flag down a taxi anywhere along the road. If there’s space, the driver will stop and pick you up but when it’s full, he driver will wave at you apologetically.
Note: Taxis only run between towns of the same region, eg. you can’t get a shared taxi from Tangier to Casablanca. On long distances, you will have to change taxis or hire the entire car.
A word of advice: Grand taxis (those for travel between cities) do not have a meter. Instead, prices between each town are fixed. All taxi drivers must have a “bulletin” that states the fares in their region. Many do not display this sheet as required, so make sure you ask for it. You could also ask around among fellow passengers waiting for a taxi. People will readily tell you how much to pay. Make sure to settle the price with the driver before the taxi leaves - and do emphasize you’re talking dirhams, not dollars! CarCar is a very popular way to get around the country and the road system is fairly well developed, with improvements to major highways currently high on the government’s agenda.
Moroccan drivers drive with apparently far less caution than most of us do back home! Particularly in town, they speed and weave from one space to another in a strangely organized frenzy, but crashes are rare. If you are of an adventurous disposition, you will embrace this great experience. Be aware that:- The speed limit in town is 50km/hour and on the highways outside town it is 100km/hour. - Wearing seatbelts is obligatory for drivers and passengers, although this is often not practiced.
- It is illegal to drive at night without lights. However, at below 20 km/hr vehicles are permitted to drive without lights. You will have to keep your wits about you as there are also many cyclists without lights as well as animals and hikers out on the roads at night. - Petrol prices in Morocco are relatively high.
Car HireThe bigger cities in Morocco have large car rental agencies, as do all the airports. In general driving is very straightforward and since not many locals have access to vehicles, or have the need to drive long distances, the roads are usually clear and easy to navigate. You should enjoy exploring the country at your own pace.
In order to hire a car, you will need:- International driver’s license in order to hire a car. - your own motor insuranceMotorbikesMotorbikes in Morocco are increasingly popular as a means to visit many far flung and sought after places. You should be careful about your safety at night and you are advised to take a good tool kit and puncture repair kit

Once you arrive in Germany, if you are American, you will notice that the German public transportation system is much more efficient and cost effective than that of America. There are many more options and for the most part, you can get anywhere any time. Keep in mind that you can purchase a train ticket from your current location to your destination and this ticket is valid for the train, bus and street car. ie. Take a train from Darmstadt to Hanau then use the same ticket for a bus from Hanau to Frankfurt.
Taxi Cab: Taxi cabs can be found around any airport or public location. If you walk up to a taxi parking area and there is a row of taxi cabs go to the front vehicle first. The price varies but can be expensive at times. The weekend taxi fees are generally more expensive than the fees on a weekday. If you can avoid using a taxi cab I would recommend it. If you are relatively pleased with the service provided by the cab driver a one or two EUR tip would be sufficient.
Street Cars (Trolley): Street cars were the first mode of public transportation in Germany. Street cars make frequent stops and have a map layout of each stop. Check the route and be sure the stop you want is close enough to your destination, if not you may want to take the U/S Bahn, a bus or a taxi. Street cars are relatively fast, about the same speed as a normal car in the city. Train: The European rail system is set up to be a very cost effective and efficient means for international European travel. With a vast number of inner-city trains running constantly during the day, the German train system is just as effective. When entering a train station (Bahnhof) you will need to purchase a ticket from the machine. You can only buy a train ticket with EUR but you can use any denomination below 20 including coins or bills. Simply select your destination from the list shown, enter the destination number and push the ‘Einzelfahrt’ button. Your change will fall along with your ticket to the tray. If you are planning to travel by train from Frankfurt to Paris, for example, you may choose to use the ICE train. This train is designed to get you from point A to point B much faster than a normal train. ICE trains are a little more expensive but may be the smart way to travel if you are planning inter-country travel in Europe.
U/S-Bahn: The U or S Bahn would be the equivalent to the subway in the States. The U-Bahn covers city areas where as the S-Bahn covers city areas and up to 60 kilometers outside the city. Normally you will only find U/S Bahns in bigger cities. The U/S Bahn normally makes more stops than trolleys making them the smarter choice for inner city travel.
You can also purchase an all day ticket which is good for trolleys, buses and the U/S-Bahn by pressing the Tageskarte button instead of the Einzelfahrt button. It is possible to board the train or trolley without purchasing a ticket but you will be fined 60 EUR minimum and these checks do occur regularly. You can purchase train tickets online from the official homepage of Deutsche Bahn at http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en

The AirSafe Journal published a report on head injury risks in 1999 based on a study released by the Flight Safety Foundation. This study was authored by Dr. Leo Rozmaryn, an orthopedic surgeon and medical director of Workplace Dynamics. The study claims that head injuries caused by objects falling from overhead storage bins can affect the patient months after the injury was sustained.
The findings of Dr. Rozmaryn’s study were based on a survey of 462 falling baggage incidents on the 757 of an unnamed major US airline during the mid-1990s. Of these events, a person was reported struck in 397 cases, and in about a third of these, the person involved suffered from bruises and lacerations. Around 90% of those injured are aisle seat passengers.
Dr. Rozmaryn further stated that baggage can fall from overhead compartments if they shift in flights or if the overhead bins are overloaded. Flight attendants are just as susceptible to baggage injuries as passengers. It was reported that boxes, picture frames and other oddly shaped items cause most number of injuries at 80%.
Minimal traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is the one Dr. Rozmaryn named as the most serious injury a patient can sustain in such accidents. In this case, the patient develops the following postconcussive symptoms:Persistent headaches Dizziness Fatigue Irritability Ringing in the ears Reduced concentration Frustration Slowed thinking Sleep disturbances Memory dysfunction Anxiety Sensitivity to noise Double or blurred vision Sensitivity to light Depression Even if a passenger has not shown visible lacerations, bruises or other symptoms immediately following the incident, it does not mean that no injuries have been sustained. Symptoms may appear and worsen 48 hours after the initial trauma. It was also cited in the study that 20 to 60% of passengers who had heavy items falling on their heads still feel the effects of the injury three months after.

There’s good news for travelers who fear their money may take flight if the airline they’ve booked tickets on declares bankruptcy. There are practical steps travelers can take to protect their travel plans and their money.
Legally, struggling airlines may declare bankruptcy while continuing flight operations. Here are a few tips for travelers to consider when purchasing travel: • Use a credit card. When selecting a supplier that might be be in financial trouble, consumers should pay by credit card. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, credit card customers have the right to refuse to pay for charges for services not rendered. Details of the Fair Credit Billing Act can be found at the Federal Trade Commission’s Web site.
• Consider insurance. Some travel insurance policies may include supplier default protection. However, vendors that have declared bankruptcy protection are generally excluded. • Remember Section 145. According to the experts at the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), consumers who have purchased a ticket on an airline that ceases operations may be entitled to standby travel on other airlines. Section 145 of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act provides that airline passengers holding tickets (paper or electronic) from a bankrupt carrier for a particular route are entitled, at minimum, to transportation on a space-available basis on any airline currently serving that route provided the passenger makes alternate arrangements within 60 days after an airline has suspended operations. Additionally, the maximum fee that an airline can charge for providing standby transportation should not exceed $50 each way. Unless extended, Section 145 is valid through November 30, 2006.
• File a claim. If an airline defaults and a consumer is unable to take advantage of the Fair Credit Billing Act or Section 145, he should file a claim with the bankruptcy court. The bankruptcy court usually provides filing instructions, including claim forms, within months after a bankruptcy is filed.
ASTA is the world’s largest association of travel professionals.

The best Professional Travel Health Advice about food and drink on holiday, can easily be summarised as follows1. The first thing to realise is that unpasteurised milk, non bottled drinks , and uncooked food, are likely to be contaminated and therefore possibly unsafe. This does not include fruit which can be peeled.
2. Use bottled or boiled water for cleaning your teeth.
3. Don’t open your mouth and drink water in the shower.
4. Dishes containing raw or undercooked eggs, such as home-made mayonnaise, some sauces (e.g. hollandaise) and some desserts (e.g. mousses), are not a good idea.
5. Ice-cream that doesn’t have a recognisable international brand name, and could be made locally, is often contaminated and could be a danger.
6. When confronted with cooked food, the holidaymaker should ensure that it has been thoroughly and freshly cooked; i.e. that it is piping hot.
7. Be aware of eating out the day after a public holiday, as reheated food appears, and it can be dangerous.
8. Foods that are cooked in advance need to be held at a temperature of below 10 C or above 60 C to ensure their safety.
9.Cooked food left out for some time constitutes one of the greatest risks of food borne disease. Contaminating or surviving bacteria may multiply in it if it is. Put another way, if the food has been cooked but not refrigerated between cooking and serving, because it has been left out, then you could be taking a risk eating it. This means attractive cold buffets are very definitely unsafe if they have been laid out hours before being eaten.
10. Unpasteurised milk should be boiled before it is drunk. 11. Bottles of drinking water that contain non carbonated water should be regarded with suspicion, unless you see the seal broken in front of you, because it could be straight from the TAP!!12. Ice should be avoided unless made from safe water.
13. Drinks such as wine or beer hot tea or coffee, and carbonated soft drinks or fruit juices that are bottled or otherwise packaged are usually safe to drink.
14. Apply strict hygiene while away especially after using the bathroom and before you eat food - never use communal, damp towels in public conveniences! Use disposable paper towels or hot air.
BASIC TRAVEL HEALTH ADVICE SAYS boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.