Question:

I believe the hotel is called the Airport Hilton and is about 2 miles from the airport. From the hotel to the ship should take about 20 minutes and about 25 minutes from ship back to the airport.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We have booked a cruise with HAL on the l4th of March for a 14 day cruise. > We > booked our own air, and booked a hotel through HAL.  They tell me the > hotel is > Tampa Hilton Airport hotel.  How far is this from the airport, and also > was > wondering if they have a shuttle from the Airport to the Hotel. We are > leaving > on the 13th for a pre-night stay. > Also, HAL will pick us up at the Hotel and take us to the ship.  How far > is this > hotel from the pier, and also, what is the name of the pier?  Also > wondering how > much time will be spent getting from the ship to the airport on > disembarkation > day.  Our flight doesn’t leave until 1 PM, but would have to be at the > airport > to check in 2 hours before, which would mean 11 AM.  Is this a problem. > Thanks > in advance for any information you can give me.  L.B. > I assume that means the Westshore Hilton. It is something like 2 or 3 miles > from the airport. There is a free shuttle from the airport.  The port is not > very far away, so the real question is what time they decide to disembark > you. > Paul

Response:

We have booked a cruise with HAL on the l4th of March for a 14 day cruise.  We booked our own air, and booked a hotel through HAL.  They tell me the hotel is Tampa Hilton Airport hotel.  How far is this from the airport, and also was wondering if they have a shuttle from the Airport to the Hotel. We are leaving on the 13th for a pre-night stay. Also, HAL will pick us up at the Hotel and take us to the ship.  How far is this hotel from the pier, and also, what is the name of the pier?  Also wondering how much time will be spent getting from the ship to the airport on disembarkation day.  Our flight doesn’t leave until 1 PM, but would have to be at the airport to check in 2 hours before, which would mean 11 AM.  Is this a problem.  Thanks in advance for any information you can give me.  L.B.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We have booked a cruise with HAL on the l4th of March for a 14 day cruise. We > booked our own air, and booked a hotel through HAL.  They tell me the hotel is > Tampa Hilton Airport hotel.  How far is this from the airport, and also was > wondering if they have a shuttle from the Airport to the Hotel. We are leaving > on the 13th for a pre-night stay. > Also, HAL will pick us up at the Hotel and take us to the ship.  How far is this > hotel from the pier, and also, what is the name of the pier?  Also wondering how > much time will be spent getting from the ship to the airport on disembarkation > day.  Our flight doesn’t leave until 1 PM, but would have to be at the airport > to check in 2 hours before, which would mean 11 AM.  Is this a problem. Thanks > in advance for any information you can give me.  L.B.

I assume that means the Westshore Hilton. It is something like 2 or 3 miles from the airport. There is a free shuttle from the airport.  The port is not very far away, so the real question is what time they decide to disembark you. Paul

Response:

We have booked a cruise with HAL on the l4th of March for a 14 day cruise.  We booked our own air, and booked a hotel through HAL.  They tell me the hotel is Tampa Hilton Airport hotel.  How far is this from the airport, and also was wondering if they have a shuttle from the Airport to the Hotel. We are leaving on the 13th for a pre-night stay. Also, HAL will pick us up at the Hotel and take us to the ship.  How far is this hotel from the pier, and also, what is the name of the pier?  Also wondering how much time will be spent getting from the ship to the airport on disembarkation day.  Our flight doesn’t leave until 1 PM, but would have to be at the airport to check in 2 hours before, which would mean 11 AM.  Is this a problem.  Thanks in advance for any information you can give me.  L.B.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We have booked a cruise with HAL on the l4th of March for a 14 day cruise. We > booked our own air, and booked a hotel through HAL.  They tell me the hotel is > Tampa Hilton Airport hotel.  How far is this from the airport, and also was > wondering if they have a shuttle from the Airport to the Hotel. We are leaving > on the 13th for a pre-night stay. > Also, HAL will pick us up at the Hotel and take us to the ship.  How far is this > hotel from the pier, and also, what is the name of the pier?  Also wondering how > much time will be spent getting from the ship to the airport on disembarkation > day.  Our flight doesn’t leave until 1 PM, but would have to be at the airport > to check in 2 hours before, which would mean 11 AM.  Is this a problem. Thanks > in advance for any information you can give me.  L.B.

I assume that means the Westshore Hilton. It is something like 2 or 3 miles from the airport. There is a free shuttle from the airport.  The port is not very far away, so the real question is what time they decide to disembark you. Paul

Response:

I believe the hotel is called the Airport Hilton and is about 2 miles from the airport. From the hotel to the ship should take about 20 minutes and about 25 minutes from ship back to the airport.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We have booked a cruise with HAL on the l4th of March for a 14 day cruise. > We > booked our own air, and booked a hotel through HAL.  They tell me the > hotel is > Tampa Hilton Airport hotel.  How far is this from the airport, and also > was > wondering if they have a shuttle from the Airport to the Hotel. We are > leaving > on the 13th for a pre-night stay. > Also, HAL will pick us up at the Hotel and take us to the ship.  How far > is this > hotel from the pier, and also, what is the name of the pier?  Also > wondering how > much time will be spent getting from the ship to the airport on > disembarkation > day.  Our flight doesn’t leave until 1 PM, but would have to be at the > airport > to check in 2 hours before, which would mean 11 AM.  Is this a problem. > Thanks > in advance for any information you can give me.  L.B. > I assume that means the Westshore Hilton. It is something like 2 or 3 miles > from the airport. There is a free shuttle from the airport.  The port is not > very far away, so the real question is what time they decide to disembark > you. > Paul

Response:

Question:

Hello Angolan Embassy ask for the confirmed hotel reservation to issue the visa… Does anybody know inexpensive hotel in Luanda who can send me such confirmation?  Fax no.?  e-mail address? Thanks… Wojtek

Response:

Originally posted by Wojtek Dabrowski > Hello > Angolan Embassy ask for the confirmed hotel reservation > to issue the visa… > Does anybody know inexpensive hotel in Luanda who can > send me such confirmation?  Fax no.?  e-mail address? > Thanks… > Wojtek

That is rubbish. Do they think you want to camp in the bush? Even so, what is wrong with that. I suspect they want you to bribe them. — John 3:16 Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Originally posted by Wojtek Dabrowski > Hello > Angolan Embassy ask for the confirmed hotel reservation > to issue the visa… > Does anybody know inexpensive hotel in Luanda who can > send me such confirmation?  Fax no.?  e-mail address? > Thanks… > Wojtek >That is rubbish. Do they think you want to camp in the bush? Even so, >what is wrong with that. I suspect they want you to bribe them.

Actually, rubbish it may be BUT there are several countries in the world that ask for this before they will issue a Visa.  If the embassy you are applying to says  it is required then so be it otherwise you won’t get your visa. I don’t think you should go the "bribe" route on with an embassy in your home country. I cannot recommend any cheap accommodation – but these people may be able to help you. http://www.aasafaris.com/foz_cunene_accommodations.htm Alternatively, you can maybe make a reservation over the internet and once you get confirmation – cancel it… many people do this – some places confirm a reservation prior to you paying a deposit.

Response:

Question:

I didnt see much in Taipei airport except very expensive goods – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Maybe the airport may be worthwhile itself. I remember Singapore > Changi where the airport muzac actually was performed by a > string quartet.  I sat down with my Heineken and gave them > a listen before I went shopping. They were really good. > Mette Li > Hello…next March I will have a 4 hour layover at CKS (Taipei) > airport.  I understand that I likely will not have time to head into > town and do any sightseeing, but is there anything to see very near > the airport?  Would it be feasable to hire a taxi to give me a quick > 1 hour tour or something to that effect?  Never been to Taiwan > before so I’m curious.  Also, my luggage will be checked in Manila > for travel onward to CVG via LAX.  Will this cause any problems for > my luggage (i.e., being removed from plane) if I exit the airport >       for an hour or two?  Thanks in advance for the advice. Craig

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello…next March I will have a 4 hour layover at CKS (Taipei) airport. I > understand that I likely will not have time to head into town and do any > sightseeing, but is there anything to see very near the airport?  Would it > be feasable to hire a taxi to give me a quick 1 hour tour or something to > that effect?  Never been to Taiwan before so I’m curious.  Also, my luggage > will be checked in Manila for travel onward to CVG via LAX.  Will this cause > any problems for my luggage (i.e., being removed from plane) if I exit the > airport for an hour or two?  Thanks in advance for the advice. >       Craig > — > "They that can give up essential liberty to > obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither > liberty nor safety." — Benjamin Franklin > Concerned with the direction our government > is going?  VOTE LIBERTARIAN

There’s 2 terminals at CKS, and there’s very little to do at the old terminal 1.  Terminal 2 has a few more shops and lounges.  If you don’t have access to one of the airline lounges, you can pay a small charge to enter "The More" lounge upstairs in Terminal 2.  There’s internet, showers, and snacks there, among other things.  I know EVA and United use terminal 2, and China Airlines and Cathay use terminal 1.  Can’t remember the others.  CKS has a website at http://www1.cksairport.gov.tw/english/ Taipei is about a 45 minute drive, so you probably don’t have time to see the city, and there’s really nothing to do near the airport.  I’ve seen the air museum too as I pass by, but it doesn’t look like much.  Sometimes there’s a retired China Airlines A300 or a "Grand Air" (out of business?) 737-200 sitting around.

Response:

> But remember, Changi is the most exellent airport on the face > of this planet (IATA awards), so it may be abit unfair to project > this expectation level onto Taipei… just a thought > Preft

 If Changi is the best – then Taipei right before Yangon in Myanmar must be at the bottom of the list (and I do not know how the main North Korean airport is like) at least in Asia… Have a nice stay! Nik

Response:

> Maybe the airport may be worthwhile itself. I remember Singapore > Changi where the airport muzac actually was performed by a > string quartet.  I sat down with my Heineken and gave them > a listen before I went shopping. They were really good.

I haven’t been to Taipei for a few years but I don’t remember it being any great source of amusement. A bunch of people walking through really crowded, narrow corridors, and a lot of vending machines. miguel — See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

But remember, Changi is the most exellent airport on the face of this planet (IATA awards), so it may be abit unfair to project this expectation level onto Taipei… just a thought Preft – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Maybe the airport may be worthwhile itself. I remember Singapore > Changi where the airport muzac actually was performed by a > string quartet.  I sat down with my Heineken and gave them > a listen before I went shopping. They were really good. > Mette Li > Hello…next March I will have a 4 hour layover at CKS (Taipei) airport.  I > understand that I likely will not have time to head into town and do any > sightseeing, but is there anything to see very near the airport?  Would it > be feasable to hire a taxi to give me a quick 1 hour tour or something to > that effect?  Never been to Taiwan before so I’m curious.  Also, my luggage > will be checked in Manila for travel onward to CVG via LAX.  Will this cause > any problems for my luggage (i.e., being removed from plane) if I exit the > airport for an hour or two?  Thanks in advance for the advice. >       Craig

Response:

>Hello…next March I will have a 4 hour layover at CKS (Taipei) airport.  I >understand that I likely will not have time to head into town and do any >sightseeing, but is there anything to see very near the airport?  Would it >be feasable to hire a taxi to give me a quick 1 hour tour or something to >that effect?  Never been to Taiwan before so I’m curious.  Also, my luggage >will be checked in Manila for travel onward to CVG via LAX.  Will this cause >any problems for my luggage (i.e., being removed from plane) if I exit the >airport for an hour or two?  Thanks in advance for the advice. >      Craig

There’s an air museum right near the airport, might be worth going to. I see it every time I pass through CKS airport but have never checked it out. —- The Chiang Kai-shek Aviation Museum The Chiang Kai-shek Aviation Museum is located next to the CKS International Airport Hotel, two kilometers from the airport terminal building. The museum features exhibitions focusing on the history of aviation development both in ROC and in the world. You could also research Tzuhu (where the old generalissimo himself is awaiting his return to the mainland) to see if it’s doable. Best regards, Spehro Pefhany — "it’s the network…"                          "The Journey is the reward" Embedded software/hardware/analog  Info for designers:  http://www.speff.com

Response:

Maybe the airport may be worthwhile itself. I remember Singapore Changi where the airport muzac actually was performed by a string quartet.  I sat down with my Heineken and gave them a listen before I went shopping. They were really good. Mette Li – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello…next March I will have a 4 hour layover at CKS (Taipei) airport.  I > understand that I likely will not have time to head into town and do any > sightseeing, but is there anything to see very near the airport?  Would it > be feasable to hire a taxi to give me a quick 1 hour tour or something to > that effect?  Never been to Taiwan before so I’m curious.  Also, my luggage > will be checked in Manila for travel onward to CVG via LAX.  Will this cause > any problems for my luggage (i.e., being removed from plane) if I exit the > airport for an hour or two?  Thanks in advance for the advice. >       Craig

Response:

Hello…next March I will have a 4 hour layover at CKS (Taipei) airport.  I understand that I likely will not have time to head into town and do any sightseeing, but is there anything to see very near the airport?  Would it be feasable to hire a taxi to give me a quick 1 hour tour or something to that effect?  Never been to Taiwan before so I’m curious.  Also, my luggage will be checked in Manila for travel onward to CVG via LAX.  Will this cause any problems for my luggage (i.e., being removed from plane) if I exit the airport for an hour or two?  Thanks in advance for the advice.       Craig — "They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." — Benjamin Franklin Concerned with the direction our government is going?  VOTE LIBERTARIAN

Response:

Question:

> Am doing a business trip to China which is requiring an overnight in > Bangkok.  Any recommendations for good accomodations near the BKK airport??? > The Amari looks fine but seems rather extreme in pricing for the quality of > service. > Comfort Suites no longer seems to appear on the Choice Hotels’ website.

I stayed at the Rama Gardens Hotel on my way to Ranong last year. Very nice hotel with spacious rooms, about US$ 60, a few minutes from Don Muang by cab. They also have a shuttle bus service. The place is non-smoking, but smokers can go to the beer garden. Can be booked on-line. M

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->> OK, but the airlines cleary *request* that you check in at least 2 >> hours before takeoff , or would you like to debate that ? >Not much point. It’s not in dispute that they request it. >Likewise, the state police request that you not drive 57 in a 55 mile per >hour zone. >miguel >Ahh so you must be one of the morons who check in 10 mins before >departure and make the plane late for everyone >-

Hey Tony, the man: did miss your comments – - holidays or simply fed up with the morons?

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->>That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some >>other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in >>case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that. >I hope that is not for an international flight , as checking in at >least 2 hours prior to takeoff is standard and required on most >flights. > I normally leave even less time than Tchiowa does. I can’t remember > the last time I checked-in more than an hour before the flight was due > to depart. I take around 20 international flights a year, and haven’t > missed one yet. You spend time standing in check-in queues if you > want, I’ve got better things to do with my time.

I agree. The biggest reason I plan to arrive 90 minutes before flight is not so much check-in time but "just in case" to allow for traffic problems. If I plan for 90 minutes and traffic is bad I still have plenty of time once at the airport. I don’t like feeling rushed when I’m getting ready for a flight.

Response:

> >> That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some >> other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in >> case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that. > I hope that is not for an international flight , as checking in at > least 2 hours prior to takeoff is standard and required on most > flights. > Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I > fell asleep in the airport and missed it.

It is not required in Bangkok. The New Jersey shape-shifter is just trying to pick fights. I don’t think there is an actual requirement anywhere. But there are "recommendations". In SFO they were recommending arriving 3 hours before flight time.

Response:

  > Ahh so you must be one of the morons who check in 10 mins before > departure and make the plane late for everyone

Nonsense.. Many airlines REQUIRE you to be at the GATE 15 or 20 minutes before departure. The only time I have not made this is when I was connecting and the first flight arrived late.  Then, they usually let you board. If you want to be safe and arrive at the airport, fine. But there is NO way I am showing up at 5AM for a 7AM Saturday flight to SNA. If I miss the required time to be at the gate, it is not your problem. If he checks in 10 minutes before flight time, and he was required to be at the gate 20 minutes before, then he will be denied boarding.  I suspect the cause of planes departing late because of late arriving passengers is usually do to connections or abnormal security delays.

Response:

>> Likewise, the state police request that you not drive 57 in a 55 mile per > hour zone. > Ahh so you must be one of the morons who check in 10 mins before > departure and make the plane late for everyone

Maybe twice in the past few years I’ve been the last person on the plane, and they weren’t international flights (just Southwest 1-hour hops). Fact is there’s just a whole lot of sitting around in the departure lounge to look forward to if you get there that early. Also I’m pretty sure if I had been arguing in favor of getting there three hours in advance you’d be the first one in line to tell me what a moron I was for not getting there at the last minute. miguel — See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

>>That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some >other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in >case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that. >I hope that is not for an international flight , as checking in at >least 2 hours prior to takeoff is standard and required on most >flights.

*******5555555  Not if you are the "great Tchiowa".  

Response:

>>>Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I >>fell asleep in the airport and missed it. >Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did >you sleep through the last 3 years also. >Which takes all of 10 minutes to complete.

Try doing it at JFK in NYC in 10 min.

Response:

> >> Likewise, the state police request that you not drive 57 in a 55 mile per >> hour zone. > Ahh so you must be one of the morons who check in 10 mins before > departure and make the plane late for everyone > Maybe twice in the past few years I’ve been the last person on the plane, > and they weren’t international flights (just Southwest 1-hour hops). > Fact is there’s just a whole lot of sitting around in the departure lounge > to look forward to if you get there that early.

[snip]    It’s actually been getting quicker for me internationally that pre 9-11. I used to budget 2- 3 hours before international flights out of major airports.  On more than one occasion, I’ve used it all.  Nominally, these days, getting there 2 hours is an assurance that you’ll get through in about 20 minutes.  The hard part is having the kahoonahs to do something like Miguel is talking about.  There is this weird sorta curve you experience.  As the flight approaches, the time it takes gets longer, more folks are arriving and checking in.  Then, at some point, folks stop arriving and it actually takes LESS time.      Now it is very airport and time of day dependent.  For example, on some airlines, like Virgin out of MCO for example, they only have a couple of flights a day.  However, BA out of Gatwick may have a boat load.  So you can find yourself in line with a bunch of folks whose flights leave after yours.      One of the bigger risks you actually run is with checked luggage. They need a finite amount of time to get your luggage through and onto the plane.  If you aren’t on it, they have to take your luggage off, but under some circumstances, if you’re on it, but your luggagge isn’t, they can still leave.  So arriving late might get you on the plane, but your luggage won’t.  Miguel travels almost exclusively with carry on so this isn’t an issue for him.      Domestically I had an odd experience.  I went up to get through security, and we practically walked straight through.  We were there 3 hours early (went to the airport with folks leaving earlier).  I got stopped at security because I had forgotten to remove my pocket knife.  I had to go back and mail it to myself.  When I returned about 10 minutes later, there was a HUGE line at security.  Half hour later, you could walk straight through again.     Airports experience surges, the smaller, the bigger the impact of the surges.  If you are familar with the airport, and their surges, you can easily show up with in the hour of your departure and still get on your plane.  In some cases, even when your wrong, the airline will tend to work with you to get you on (unless they are heavily overbooked, then you may have effectively just "volunteered" to be bumped).

Response:

Wah Shizzle says: > OK, but the airlines cleary *request* that you check in at least 2 > hours before takeoff , or would you like to debate that ?

They can request it all they want, until it is REQUIRED, I will show up in the amount of time I need to be there in order to make it to the gate by the REQUIRED boarding time.  If its two hours, it is two hours. BTW, is that two hours at the counters, or at the back of the line? The link you posted said "at the airport"… Now, if I am checking in at the First Class counter, do I need the same two hours? If it is the first flight of the day, do I need to be at the airport two hours early if the counter people show up only an hour before the flight?

Response:

>>Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I >fell asleep in the airport and missed it. > Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did > you sleep through the last 3 years also.

What "international security"?  The only difference is that I can’t use the Kiosk.  I check in, get a boarding pass. Take myself and my carryon and a lot of the time through the same security checkpoint domestic flyers are going through.  I doubt the airline has flagged me as an international flier for the TSA people at the checkpoint.

Response:

>No, but I’ve taken maybe eighty international flights in the last 3 years >and haven’t been 2 hours early for a single one – nor did I miss any of >them.

I went through a long process in Pudong (Shanghai) last week, and you might want to allow some extra time there. 1. Go to UA checkin, miss obscure sign saying you need to have your temperature taken before checkin. 2. Spot second sign, hit forehead, leave line and walk 100m to center of terminal, fill out form,get in line of about 10 people, walk past a temperature detector, get form stamped. 3. Back to UA, get in biz class line with about 6 people ahead. Moved slowly for no good reason. Get boarding pass. 4. Go to airport tax booth, no line. Pay RMB90, get card like metros use. 5. Get in short line to put card through machine. 6. Get in line of about 20 people putting goods through an x-ray machine run by customs. 7. Get in line of about 10 people getting exit clearance from immigration 8. Get in line of about 10 people clearing security. Walk through metal detector with steel shanked shoes ("shoes no problem") and laptop in carryon. No problem. 9. Go to gate. If you were in the economy check in line, you would probably need all two hours. In the biz class line, it took about 40 minutes.

Response:

>>That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some >other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in >case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that. >I hope that is not for an international flight , as checking in at >least 2 hours prior to takeoff is standard and required on most >flights.

I normally leave even less time than Tchiowa does. I can’t remember the last time I checked-in more than an hour before the flight was due to depart. I take around 20 international flights a year, and haven’t missed one yet. You spend time standing in check-in queues if you want, I’ve got better things to do with my time.

Response:

>>Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I >fell asleep in the airport and missed it. >Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did >you sleep through the last 3 years also.

Which takes all of 10 minutes to complete.

Response:

I stayed at the Amari 3 nights ago. I don’t know how much it was – part of a package. I do know that the hotel is directly connected to the airport arrivals hall. No cab ride (you don’t even go outside), 2 minutes walk from arrivals hall to hotel reception and back from hotel reception to check-in the next morning. No extra time allowance for traffic jams. No cab fairs. Fan-bloody-tastic. Pay the dough and do the Amari.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Am doing a business trip to China which is requiring an overnight in > Bangkok.  Any recommendations for good accomodations near the BKK airport??? > The Amari looks fine but seems rather extreme in pricing for the quality of > service. > Comfort Suites no longer seems to appear on the Choice Hotels’ website. > I was told the Sofitel Central Plaza Bangkok is considered an airport hotel, > but is it really that close??? > Since I’m arriving at 11:30 p.m., I figure the drive in wouldn’t be too bad, > but I would think that I would have to leave at around 7:30 a.m. to catch a > 10:30 flight. > Rich > — > Visit America’s Aviation Headquarters: > www.usaviation.com

Response:

> OK, but the airlines cleary *request* that you check in at least 2 > hours before takeoff , or would you like to debate that ?

Not much point. It’s not in dispute that they request it. Likewise, the state police request that you not drive 57 in a 55 mile per hour zone. miguel — See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

>> That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some > other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in > case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that. > I hope that is not for an international flight , as checking in at > least 2 hours prior to takeoff is standard and required on most > flights.

Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I fell asleep in the airport and missed it. miguel — See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

>Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I >fell asleep in the airport and missed it.

Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did you sleep through the last 3 years also. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->miguel >– >See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

>> Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I > fell asleep in the airport and missed it. > Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did > you sleep through the last 3 years also.

No, but I’ve taken maybe eighty international flights in the last 3 years and haven’t been 2 hours early for a single one – nor did I miss any of them. miguel — See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

>>> Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I >> fell asleep in the airport and missed it. > Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did > you sleep through the last 3 years also. >No, but I’ve taken maybe eighty international flights in the last 3 years >and haven’t been 2 hours early for a single one – nor did I miss any of >them.

OK, but the airlines cleary *request* that you check in at least 2 hours before takeoff , or would you like to debate that ? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->miguel >– >See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

>>> Required in what sense? The only time I was 2 hours early for a flight I >> fell asleep in the airport and missed it. > Required for something nowadays called International Security , or did > you sleep through the last 3 years also. >No, but I’ve taken maybe eighty international flights in the last 3 years >and haven’t been 2 hours early for a single one – nor did I miss any of >them. >miguel

Not sure how well a sleepy greasy Mexican like you can read , but give it a try. http://www.nwa.com/features/update_airport.shtml – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->– >See the world from your web browser: http://travel.u.nu/

Response:

> Am doing a business trip to China which is requiring an overnight in > Bangkok.  Any recommendations for good accomodations near the BKK airport??? > The Amari looks fine but seems rather extreme in pricing for the quality of > service. > Comfort Suites no longer seems to appear on the Choice Hotels’ website. > I was told the Sofitel Central Plaza Bangkok is considered an airport hotel, > but is it really that close???

20 minute taxi ride, depending on traffic. Not really an "airport hotel" but close enough. > Since I’m arriving at 11:30 p.m., I figure the drive in wouldn’t be too bad, > but I would think that I would have to leave at around 7:30 a.m. to catch a > 10:30 flight.

That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that.

Response:

http://www.ebinahouse.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Am doing a business trip to China which is requiring an overnight in > Bangkok.  Any recommendations for good accomodations near the BKK airport??? > The Amari looks fine but seems rather extreme in pricing for the quality of > service. > Comfort Suites no longer seems to appear on the Choice Hotels’ website. > I was told the Sofitel Central Plaza Bangkok is considered an airport hotel, > but is it really that close??? > Since I’m arriving at 11:30 p.m., I figure the drive in wouldn’t be too bad, > but I would think that I would have to leave at around 7:30 a.m. to catch a > 10:30 flight. > Rich > — > Visit America’s Aviation Headquarters: > www.usaviation.com

Response:

>That’s plenty of time. Check in at Don Muang isn’t as bad as some >other airports. I arrive about 90 minutes before a flight (just in >case) and usually spend only 10-15 minutes on check in, if that.

I hope that is not for an international flight , as checking in at least 2 hours prior to takeoff is standard and required on most flights.

Response:

Am doing a business trip to China which is requiring an overnight in Bangkok.  Any recommendations for good accomodations near the BKK airport??? The Amari looks fine but seems rather extreme in pricing for the quality of service. Comfort Suites no longer seems to appear on the Choice Hotels’ website. I was told the Sofitel Central Plaza Bangkok is considered an airport hotel, but is it really that close??? Since I’m arriving at 11:30 p.m., I figure the drive in wouldn’t be too bad, but I would think that I would have to leave at around 7:30 a.m. to catch a 10:30 flight. Rich — Visit America’s Aviation Headquarters: www.usaviation.com

Response:

Question:

If the Marriott property available is the one near the Brooklyn Bridge, it is a much better choice than anything in the JFK area.  Quick cab rides or public transport to Manhattan and I understand there are great views from some rooms.

Response:

I believe the reason Yahoo and Mapquest give "odd" routings are that they are not equipped to distinguish personal and commercial vehicles in their systems.  The preferred course, as we’ve seen, involves using the Belt Parkwy which is closed to commercial traffic.  Not wanting to give that routing to an eighteen wheeler with the subsequent knocking down of low bridges, (oh, the liability) everyone is directed elsewhere.

Response:

That isn’t the case at all, Yahoo and mapquest will often give routings that are on roads that do not allow commercial vehicles.  I believe in this case it’s looking for the shortest route. It’s actually a problem with the mapping software, they give you the routings, but make no indication that commercial vehicles are not allowed, so if you are renting a moving truck, don’t trust them.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I believe the reason Yahoo and Mapquest give "odd" routings are that > they are not equipped to distinguish personal and commercial vehicles in > their systems.  The preferred course, as we’ve seen, involves using the > Belt Parkwy which is closed to commercial traffic.  Not wanting to give > that routing to an eighteen wheeler with the subsequent knocking down of > low bridges, (oh, the liability) everyone is directed elsewhere.

Response:

> > How is transport from the JFK hotels into midtown if I decide to > stay at a JFK area hotel and take that route? > What dates are you looking for?  I asked Orbitz for Dec 9-11, and they > had a reasonable selection of hotels in Manhattan for under $150, > mostly on the upper west side which is a nice neighborhood and a heck > of a lot closer to midtown than JFK is, but a few reasonable ones in > midtown, too.

I’m looking for December 5-7, 2 nights with option for one additional night. For the time being, I’ve grabbed the Radisson at JFK (better than the Courtyard I originally booked) and the same price ($129/night) and I booked it for 3 nights. I tried a bid on Priceline for $150 to no avail and a friend of mine in the UK tried a bid for GBP 90 to no avail as well. It seems this particular weekend is heavily sold in NYC.  I understand there is a convention of some type in town as well.  I think the Radisson will work out and we’ll just use local transport such as the train from Jamaica to Penn Station as you suggested.  I also understand there is a subway line near the airport somewhere in addition to the city bus. Not being very familiar with the area, if you do know of any places that might be worth looking at for that weekend, I’d much appreciate it. Thanks for all your help, I sincerely appreciate it. Steve

Response:

> How is transport from the JFK hotels into midtown if I decide to > stay at a JFK area hotel and take that route?

You need to call them and ask, but I’d be surprised if you got an answer other than "duh?"  Ask if they can do pickup and dropoff at the Jamaica train station, where there is extremely frequent service to and from Penn Station. What dates are you looking for?  I asked Orbitz for Dec 9-11, and they had a reasonable selection of hotels in Manhattan for under $150, mostly on the upper west side which is a nice neighborhood and a heck of a lot closer to midtown than JFK is, but a few reasonable ones in midtown, too.

Response:

>It’s funny, I would also suggest the same route you did saying that there >isn’t any other one, but if you do a yahoo map that isn’t what they come up >with.  So I too vote for the route below and not what Yahoo tells you to do.

Yahoo’s route is the Turnpike extension to the Holland tunnel, across lower Manhattan to the Manhattan bridge, up the BQE. out the LIE, then down the Grand Central and Van Wyck.  It’s not a bad route, particularly late at night, but I wouldn’t recommend it to someone who wasn’t familiar with NYC because it’d be easy to get lost. >Where to pick up somebody?  If you both have telephones, have him wait >someplace comfortable, …

Good point.  Cell phones definitely help here. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Take the obvious route, NJ Turnpike south to the Goethals Bridge, > across Staten Island to the Verrazano to the Belt Parkway to JFK. > Unless something’s closed for construction, the trip should be pretty > speedy that late, probably no more than an hour.  The westbound > Goethals is closed for construction weekends 12-4 AM, but you’re going > east.

Response:

> It’s funny, I would also suggest the same route you did saying that there > isn’t any other one, but if you do a yahoo map that isn’t what they come up > with.  So I too vote for the route below and not what Yahoo tells you to

do. Mike, Thanks greatly.  Sometimes I’ve found the routes that yahoo (or other map programs) provides aren’t always the best, especially when driving in a large city. > Manhattan hotels are very full for some reason this fall, I was looking for > one last weekend for an event we were going into the city for and the search > engines were bringing up hotels further from the city then my house is. > Call the hotels directly, they may have some space that hasn’t been released > into the systems yet, but don’t wait, it’s going to be a tough fall and > winter for hotel rooms in the city for some reason (which is a good thing > for the economy).

I’m almost at the point where I’m giving up at trying to find a room in Midtown Manhattan for my December visit.   I’m either going to stay at a JFK hotel and just use local transport to get into the city — or rent a car, get out of the city and stay somewhere up in CT or NJ.   The search has been ridiculous — the SPG gold line advised me everything was sold out.  The Marriott Silver line had nothing in the area other than a property south of Manhattan across the bridge (I apologize, my NYC geography isn’t the best). Other chains have turned up dry as well as a search on Travelocity which yielded a few, extremely expensive options which weren’t the best locations. I also tried priceline, FWIW, and no luck with bidding 2x’s+ what priceline normally accepts for a property in the area.  When I start trying priceline, that’s a sign of being desperate.  ;-) I’ll take your advice a call a few of the hotels I had in mind directly to see if they can offer something.   I also plan on trying another Priceline as it gets closer just in case something opens up with their last minute inventory that they try to sell off. > Would I rent a car if you were only going into the city?  Not a chance. If > you have any plans of the suburbs or beyond, then it makes sense, but I > wouldn’t do it just to get around, I drive in every day and I don’t move the > car if I have to go someplace else usually, it’s too much of a hassle, and > way to expensive to park it several places in a day. > Unless there is some pressing need for a car, don’t do it.

The auto rental would be used to get out of the city, if I decide to take that route, and do lodging up in CT or in NJ.   I’m just trying to look at my options as it seems my chances at getting lodging in midtown are quite slim at this point; as such, it’ll either be airport lodging, or lodging outside of the area, thus the rental.   As much as I’d like to spend some time in Midtown, it could work out much cheaper just to get an auto, drive up to Stamford, CT (or somewhere in NJ), and get an extremely nice hotel at a good rate. How is transport from the JFK hotels into midtown if I decide to stay at a JFK area hotel and take that route? Thanks, Steve

Response:

It’s funny, I would also suggest the same route you did saying that there isn’t any other one, but if you do a yahoo map that isn’t what they come up with.  So I too vote for the route below and not what Yahoo tells you to do. Where to pick up somebody?  If you both have telephones, have him wait someplace comfortable, and when you get to the airport call and have him go to one of the doors at either the arrival or departure level, as long as you know which he is at you either go up or down, and just pull up while he’s waiting.  Don’t leave your car at the curb to go in and get him, then you will be looking for another car. Manhattan hotels are very full for some reason this fall, I was looking for one last weekend for an event we were going into the city for and the search engines were bringing up hotels further from the city then my house is. Call the hotels directly, they may have some space that hasn’t been released into the systems yet, but don’t wait, it’s going to be a tough fall and winter for hotel rooms in the city for some reason (which is a good thing for the economy). Would I rent a car if you were only going into the city?  Not a chance.  If you have any plans of the suburbs or beyond, then it makes sense, but I wouldn’t do it just to get around, I drive in every day and I don’t move the car if I have to go someplace else usually, it’s too much of a hassle, and way to expensive to park it several places in a day. Unless there is some pressing need for a car, don’t do it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->I’m going to be flying into EWR at 10:00pm and meeting an associate who is >flying into JFK around 11:00pm on a Friday night.  Any advice as to what the >best route would be between EWR and JFK at this time of night? (I hope to be >in my rental and out of EWR by 10:30pm). > Take the obvious route, NJ Turnpike south to the Goethals Bridge, > across Staten Island to the Verrazano to the Belt Parkway to JFK. > Unless something’s closed for construction, the trip should be pretty > speedy that late, probably no more than an hour.  The westbound > Goethals is closed for construction weekends 12-4 AM, but you’re going > east. >In regards to JFK what is the best place to meet or pickup a passenger who >will be coming inbound on an American Airlines Intl flight?  IIRC, I believe >it’s terminal 7 (or 8?) > It’s T8.  Since it’ll be midnight, you can probably wait at the curb > in the car in front of the terminal.  If the cops tell you to move, go > around the (rather long) block. >Additionally, I plan on flying into JFK a few weeks later.  I personally >would like to stay in Manhattan, but it seems most of the hotels are already >heavily booked.  Instead, I would like to opt for an airport hotel for night >one because I’ll be making a late night arrival. > Anyone have suggestions for a good, safe, JFK airport hotel with > shuttle service? > The P.A. has a list of airport hotels on their web site at > http://www.panynj.gov/aviation/jsmfram.htm.  They all have courtesy > shuttles, they’re all pretty close.  It’s not a partularly dangerous > part of NYC, so pick whichever one you want. > If you want to stay in Manhattan, I’d be surprised if you couldn’t > find a reasonable room, and you can always get a taxi at JFK.  Did you > check Expedia and Orbitz, both of which have a lot of merchant hotel > inventory? >Last but not least, how is the rental car situation at JFK? > Disregarding the obvious question of what kind of masochist rents a > car in NYC, the rental lots are all at Federal Circle, in the airport > but not close to the terminals.  If the Airtrain is running, it’ll > drop you there.  Otherwise you take a bus. > Regards, Dummies", > Information Superhighwayman wanna-be, http://iecc.com/johnl, Sewer Commissioner > "A book is a sneeze." – E.B. White, on the writing of Charlotte’s Web

Response:

> Disregarding the obvious question of what kind of masochist rents a > car in NYC, the rental lots are all at Federal Circle, in the airport > but not close to the terminals.  If the Airtrain is running, it’ll > drop you there.  Otherwise you take a bus.

Thanks for all the information!  Actually the purpose of the rental car would be to get out of New York City (if I don’t find reasonable lodging in the area I want).  ;-) I’ll try Expedia/Orbitz on the hotels, but I’ve already tried Starwood and a few of the major chains directly — no availability at all in midtown Manhattan for the weekend I’m looking at. Apparently there is a convention (plus it’s close to X-mas) and everything is heavily booked.  The SPG ‘gold’ line couldn’t even offer one property with availability in the area. I did check travelocity and the few available decent hotels were more or less at rack rates.  I also tried a priceline and no bids were accepted even when I tried a price much higher than what normally works for midtown. Thanks! Steve

Response:

>I’m going to be flying into EWR at 10:00pm and meeting an associate who is >flying into JFK around 11:00pm on a Friday night.  Any advice as to what the >best route would be between EWR and JFK at this time of night? (I hope to be >in my rental and out of EWR by 10:30pm).

Take the obvious route, NJ Turnpike south to the Goethals Bridge, across Staten Island to the Verrazano to the Belt Parkway to JFK. Unless something’s closed for construction, the trip should be pretty speedy that late, probably no more than an hour.  The westbound Goethals is closed for construction weekends 12-4 AM, but you’re going east. >In regards to JFK what is the best place to meet or pickup a passenger who >will be coming inbound on an American Airlines Intl flight?  IIRC, I believe >it’s terminal 7 (or 8?)

It’s T8.  Since it’ll be midnight, you can probably wait at the curb in the car in front of the terminal.  If the cops tell you to move, go around the (rather long) block. >Additionally, I plan on flying into JFK a few weeks later.  I personally >would like to stay in Manhattan, but it seems most of the hotels are already >heavily booked.  Instead, I would like to opt for an airport hotel for night >one because I’ll be making a late night arrival.   > Anyone have suggestions for a good, safe, JFK airport hotel with > shuttle service?

The P.A. has a list of airport hotels on their web site at http://www.panynj.gov/aviation/jsmfram.htm.  They all have courtesy shuttles, they’re all pretty close.  It’s not a partularly dangerous part of NYC, so pick whichever one you want. If you want to stay in Manhattan, I’d be surprised if you couldn’t find a reasonable room, and you can always get a taxi at JFK.  Did you check Expedia and Orbitz, both of which have a lot of merchant hotel inventory? >Last but not least, how is the rental car situation at JFK?

Disregarding the obvious question of what kind of masochist rents a car in NYC, the rental lots are all at Federal Circle, in the airport but not close to the terminals.  If the Airtrain is running, it’ll drop you there.  Otherwise you take a bus. Regards, Information Superhighwayman wanna-be, http://iecc.com/johnl, Sewer Commissioner "A book is a sneeze." – E.B. White, on the writing of Charlotte’s Web

Response:

I have several questions here and would greatly appreciate any assistance that can be provided. I’m going to be flying into EWR at 10:00pm and meeting an associate who is flying into JFK around 11:00pm on a Friday night.  Any advice as to what the best route would be between EWR and JFK at this time of night? (I hope to be in my rental and out of EWR by 10:30pm). I plan on using a map generated by Yahoo, but I know some of the on-line maps aren’t always 100% accurate and/or sometimes there is often a better way (to avoid construction, traffic, etc) than what the map provides.  Any insight or tips would be much appreciated.  I’ll also be asking Hertz for a map and directions, but if there are any tips on making the trek and if someone could give me an idea of how long it should take (and what traffic is usually like this time of night) I would much appreciate it. In regards to JFK what is the best place to meet or pickup a passenger who will be coming inbound on an American Airlines Intl flight?  IIRC, I believe it’s terminal 7 (or 8?).   I have only been through terminal 3 JFK on DL myself and the passenger pick-up area outside of where the exit is after US It is likely the passenger I will be picking up will have cleared US Immigrations & Customs and will be waiting when I arrive.  As such, what would be a good place for this person to wait as I would like to drive along the arrivals area and just stop the car just long enough to pick him up and get luggage in the trunk. Additionally, I plan on flying into JFK a few weeks later.  I personally would like to stay in Manhattan, but it seems most of the hotels are already heavily booked.  Instead, I would like to opt for an airport hotel for night one because I’ll be making a late night arrival.  Anyone have suggestions for a good, safe, JFK airport hotel with shuttle service?   I currently have a reservation at the Marriott Courtyard, but I would prefer something a bit nicer.  Any suggestions as to what hotels are in the area, have shuttle service, and would be nice to stay at?  I believe there is also a DoubleTree and a Radisson in the area, but I’m not sure how far they are from JFK. I’m sure there are several others — as such, I would much appreciate any suggestions. Last but not least, how is the rental car situation at JFK?  I haven’t decided if I want to get one or not, but if I do, are they all located off site (shuttle bus ride required) — or what is the setup like?  I know JFK isn’t one of the best designed airports, but unlike EWR (which is my preferred NYC area airport), JFK offers more frequent trans-Atlantics with schedules that meet my needs best with a tight schedule. Thanks in advance! Steve

Response:

Question:

I’m researching a trip to see the crab migration on Christmas Island. Was wondering if anyone has some more detailed info beyond what’s on the Christmas Island website (http://www.christmas.net.au/introduction.html). More specifically: – Dates for this year’s migration – Cheap hostel or hostel-like accommodations – Airfare cost from Jakarta – How is the migration in light of crazy ants (is it still worth seeing?) Thanks for all info, SM

Response:

> I’m researching a trip to see the crab migration on Christmas Island. > Was wondering if anyone has some more detailed info beyond what’s on > the Christmas Island website > (http://www.christmas.net.au/introduction.html).

Followed your link and clicked on the National Park and Wildlife link and found this: "At the beginning of the wet season (usually October / November), most adult Red Crabs suddenly begin a spectacular migration from the forest to the coast, to breed and release eggs into the sea."

Response:

Question:

OK, I’m outta gas, and I need to recharge my batteries with my vacation this christmas (how’s that for mixing metaphors?). I’m currently in Congo, and I have a 2 week break which falls right in the busy time of year: right before Xmas until right after New Year. I’m visualizing a place to go and <<relax>>; it doesn’t have to be in Africa, but I’m posting here because I figure r.t.a. readers are some of the most well-travelled people on the planet. I’m willing to go anywhere in the world, and I’m travelling with my girlfriend. What I am visualizing: –I can see in my mind’s eye someplace tropical, with a waterfall, a self-contined hut, and a jungle. Lots of birds and flowers, and great scenery that makes you go Ahhhh! Not too far from civilization (for food shopping, etc) but not in the middle of Touron Central, either. Definately NOT a lot of 18-25 year olds partying all night: I’m into places that aren’t yet too discovered. Prices aren’t too bad, and I can spend my days lounging on a sand beach, or flyfishing below the waterfall, or swimming in the stream, and just relaxing. Any suggestions? –riverman

Response:

Try the Andaman Islands.  Limited birds and flowers, but great for relaxing, camping, forests, village life, etc. I run a dive resort on one of the islands there (upfront disclosure).  It has info on how to get there, and things to do, and stuff. www.diveindia.com is the site.  It is focused on one particular island for now, but it has links to travel agents, flight/boat booking sites, etc. Feel free to email me at vkalia at diveindia dot com if you want more info (I dont check this email).

: OK, I’m outta gas, and I need to recharge my batteries with my vacation this : christmas (how’s that for mixing metaphors?). I’m currently in Congo, and I : have a 2 week break which falls right in the busy time of year: right before : Xmas until right after New Year. I’m visualizing a place to go and : <<relax>>; it doesn’t have to be in Africa, but I’m posting here because I : figure r.t.a. readers are some of the most well-travelled people on the : planet. I’m willing to go anywhere in the world, and I’m travelling with my : girlfriend. : : What I am visualizing: : –I can see in my mind’s eye someplace tropical, with a waterfall, a : self-contined hut, and a jungle. Lots of birds and flowers, and great : scenery that makes you go Ahhhh! Not too far from civilization (for food : shopping, etc) but not in the middle of Touron Central, either. Definately : NOT a lot of 18-25 year olds partying all night: I’m into places that aren’t : yet too discovered. Prices aren’t too bad, and I can spend my days lounging : on a sand beach, or flyfishing below the waterfall, or swimming in the : stream, and just relaxing. : : Any suggestions? : : –riverman : : — Vandit Kalia <this space for rent>

Response:

Central and Northern Mozambique. Try anywhere from Villancoulos northwards. Safari N’jema Marc

Response:

> What I am visualizing: > –I can see in my mind’s eye someplace tropical, with a waterfall, a > self-contined hut, and a jungle. Lots of birds and flowers, and great > scenery that makes you go Ahhhh! Not too far from civilization (for food > shopping, etc) but not in the middle of Touron Central, either. Definately > NOT a lot of 18-25 year olds partying all night: I’m into places that aren’t > yet too discovered. Prices aren’t too bad, and I can spend my days lounging > on a sand beach, or flyfishing below the waterfall, or swimming in the > stream, and just relaxing. > Any suggestions? > –riverman

Check into Goa, India.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> OK, I’m outta gas, and I need to recharge my batteries with my vacation this > christmas (how’s that for mixing metaphors?). I’m currently in Congo, and I > have a 2 week break which falls right in the busy time of year: right before > Xmas until right after New Year. I’m visualizing a place to go and > <<relax>>; it doesn’t have to be in Africa, but I’m posting here because I > figure r.t.a. readers are some of the most well-travelled people on the > planet. I’m willing to go anywhere in the world, and I’m travelling with my > girlfriend. > What I am visualizing: > –I can see in my mind’s eye someplace tropical, with a waterfall, a > self-contined hut, and a jungle. Lots of birds and flowers, and great > scenery that makes you go Ahhhh! Not too far from civilization (for food > shopping, etc) but not in the middle of Touron Central, either. Definately > NOT a lot of 18-25 year olds partying all night: I’m into places that aren’t > yet too discovered. Prices aren’t too bad, and I can spend my days lounging > on a sand beach, or flyfishing below the waterfall, or swimming in the > stream, and just relaxing. > Any suggestions? > –riverman

Elandsbaai Lots of birds, good fishing, lovely scenery, one hotel, no shops very few tourists (except in December) The beach is great but the water is cold, on the other side of the hill is a fresh water vlei.. About one hour (75kms. of dirt roads) from something resembling civilisation. The hotel did a fantastic breakfast for about $2US. I think I might catch a couple of days there over the Christmas break. Richard – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

i would have to recommend the Seychelles or Arenal Costa Rica

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> OK, I’m outta gas, and I need to recharge my batteries with my vacation > this > christmas (how’s that for mixing metaphors?). I’m currently in Congo, and > I > have a 2 week break which falls right in the busy time of year: right > before > Xmas until right after New Year. I’m visualizing a place to go and > <<relax>>; it doesn’t have to be in Africa, but I’m posting here because I > figure r.t.a. readers are some of the most well-travelled people on the > planet. I’m willing to go anywhere in the world, and I’m travelling with > my > girlfriend. > What I am visualizing: > –I can see in my mind’s eye someplace tropical, with a waterfall, a > self-contined hut, and a jungle. Lots of birds and flowers, and great > scenery that makes you go Ahhhh! Not too far from civilization (for food > shopping, etc) but not in the middle of Touron Central, either. Definately > NOT a lot of 18-25 year olds partying all night: I’m into places that > aren’t > yet too discovered. Prices aren’t too bad, and I can spend my days > lounging > on a sand beach, or flyfishing below the waterfall, or swimming in the > stream, and just relaxing. > Any suggestions? > –riverman > Elandsbaai > Lots of birds, good fishing, lovely scenery, one hotel, no shops very few > tourists (except in December) > The beach is great but the water is cold, on the other side of the hill is a > fresh water vlei.. About one hour (75kms. of dirt roads) from something > resembling civilisation. The hotel did a fantastic breakfast for about $2US. > I think I might catch a couple of days there over the Christmas break. > Richard

Response:

Question:

My husband and I are planning a Fiji holiday in July.  Has  anyone stayed at the Club Fiji near Nadi on the 5 day adventure package and if so wha’t it like. Also we plan to stay at the Suva Motor Lodge – again anyone been here – is it OK. Thanks Joy.

Response:

> My husband and I are planning a Fiji holiday in July.  Has  anyone stayed at > the Club Fiji near Nadi on the 5 day adventure package and if so wha’t it > like. > Also we plan to stay at the Suva Motor Lodge – again anyone been here – is > it OK. > Thanks Joy.

Our travel agent said this place was a bit cheap and nasty when we were looking for a holiday there. We ended up booking 7 nights on Plantation Island for about $1250 (Club Fiji was $799 for 5 nights I think?). We went to Treasure Island ij ‘96 and loved it. The beaches are not up to much on the mainland whereas the beaches on the islands are great with plenty of fish and coral to look at. I think the rule of you get what you pay for applies in Fiji. D.

Response:

It’s been a while but I was in Fiji in 1986 and stayed at the Regent of Fiji. It was wonderful but a bit on the pricey side. Good beach, pool, tennis etc.  and the food was WONDERFUL.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My husband and I are planning a Fiji holiday in July.  Has  anyone stayed at > the Club Fiji near Nadi on the 5 day adventure package and if so wha’t it > like. > Also we plan to stay at the Suva Motor Lodge – again anyone been here – is > it OK. > Thanks Joy. >Our travel agent said this place was a bit cheap and nasty when we were >looking for a holiday there. We ended up booking 7 nights on Plantation >Island for about $1250 (Club Fiji was $799 for 5 nights I think?). >We went to Treasure Island ij ‘96 and loved it. The beaches are not up to much >on the mainland whereas the beaches on the islands are great with plenty of >fish and coral to look at. >I think the rule of you get what you pay for applies in Fiji. >D.

Response:

> I think the rule of you get what you pay for applies in Fiji.

Not necessarily.  We went over a few years ago with no reservations (or plans).  We picked up a brochure for something called "Dive Trek Waya" at our (mediocre) Nadi hotel (though it was on the beach).  It turns out that "Dive Trek Waya" was on a little island about one and a half hours out called, what else?, Waya. We were the only tourists on the island and while the accommodations were a bit rough, the word "unspoiled" is perfect for the setting.  The beaches, snorkeling , hiking and hospitality were fabulous and it was practically free. While I don’t know if you’d be able to find Jack and the rest of his village on Waya, these kind of things do exist in Fiji. Also, on Taveuni, "The Garden island of Fiji," we got a great deal on a room (and had a a great time) in a beautiful inn/restaurant with its own beach.  It had one bungalow and one room.  There are a number of places like that on Taveuni. If you are uncomfortable leaving things to chance, you can always leave yourself a little time on the end of wherever you decide to stay and explore one or two other islands.  If your experience is anything like ours, you won’t be disappointed. Shemmy

Response:

> > My husband and I are planning a Fiji holiday in July.  Has  anyone stayed at > the Club Fiji near Nadi on the 5 day adventure package and if so wha’t it > like. > Also we plan to stay at the Suva Motor Lodge – again anyone been here – is > it OK. > Thanks Joy.

I stayed at club Fiji as a backpacker last year. I was OK price wise, but the pool is quite small and you’ll need to get a taxi into town from there. From what I’ve heard it’s one of the better budget places in Nadi. I would advise that you don’t stay in Nadi – except for shopping – and head for an island such as Beachcomber. I spent a great week there, and it’s not too far from the mainland. If you do need to stay a night on the mainland then Lautoka is better value. I stayed a night at the Cathay Hotel. The staff there were great, the rooms were large and the swimming pool was almost olympic size. Hope this helps. Gareth

Response:

Alright, so this is a Oz/NZ newsgroup but it’s probably the nearest geographically … We’re getting in to Fiji in December and want some advice about places to stay there. What we want? Nothing fancy – a double bed/room in a hostel, but not a shared dorm. Where do we want it? Well, we arrive in Nadi (where else) and want a night (or two) there – is Nadi somewhere that you’d want to stay a couple of days in? Coral Coast is the next spot we want to go to – the Beachhouse has been recommended, but there are surely others that must come highly recommended. One final question We are only in Fiji for 2 weeks, and really need to know whether we: A) Book accommodation for the entire two week stay now or B) Book just the first 6-7 days and leave the rest free (so we can make our minds up where to go then) Obviously the latter would be good – but if Fiji gets massively busy at Xmas we might find ourselves short of somewhere to stay? Better to be sensible now and book? Your help appreciated!

Response:

>Alright, so this is a Oz/NZ newsgroup but it’s probably the nearest >geographically … >We’re getting in to Fiji in December and want some advice about places to >stay there. >What we want? >Nothing fancy – a double bed/room in a hostel, but not a shared dorm. >Where do we want it? >Well, we arrive in Nadi (where else) and want a night (or two) there – is >Nadi somewhere that you’d want to stay a couple of days in?

A year ago I stayed at ‘west motor’s inn’ on queens road, which is clean, quiet and for reasonble prices (about

Question:

hi, I’m looking to stay in sydney 30th dec-5th of jan and have decided more or less to stay at one of the beaches rather than in the city centre (which is already booked up anyway!). Not having been before I was hoping to survey opinion as to the best location. Would like reasonably laid back atmosphere (so in the right country) and easy access to centre. Would go for scenery over surf probably, although decent waves are good. Is bondi too overdeveloped? How about coogee vs manly? I guess everywhere will be busy this time of year, are there any that become too full for comfort? if you know about specific places we are looking with mid priced hotels (flexible on price but would expect to pay about 100-200 ausd per night for a double room), although thanks for any advice, I’ve found this newsgroup most useful

Response:

> hi, > I’m looking to stay in sydney 30th dec-5th of jan and have decided more or > less to stay at one of the beaches rather than in the city centre (which is > already booked up anyway!). Not having been before I was hoping to survey > opinion as to the best location. Would like reasonably laid back atmosphere > (so in the right country) and easy access to centre. Would go for scenery > over surf probably, although decent waves are good. Is bondi too > overdeveloped? How about coogee vs manly?

Bondi is great. Yes, its very developed, but: 1. Spectacular great scenery (take the walk around the headland to Tamarama – most beautiful coastal walk in the world that I have ever been on). 2. Good surf (though most Sydney beaches have this). 3. Loads to do, places to eat, hotels, restaurants etc. 4. Closest beach to city centre (few kms). I don’t know exactly what you mean by laid back. Bondi is quite a scene, with lots happening by day and night, but if you just want to lie on the beach and chill you can do that as well. I would avoid Manly. Its quite seedy and has noticably deteriotated over the last ten years. Lots of violence at night (drunken yobbos). Easy to get to and from the city by ferry, but convenient for nowhere else. The drive is a pain. Coogee I don’t know so well. > I guess everywhere will be busy this time of year, are there any that become > too full for comfort? > if you know about specific places we are looking with mid priced hotels > (flexible on price but would expect to pay about 100-200 ausd per night for > a double room), although > thanks for any advice, I’ve found this newsgroup most useful

100 – 200 ausd per night should buy you a very nice hotel room in any of these places.

Response:

thanks for the advice peter. By laid back i meant, from what you say, not like manly! (i.e. drunken yobbos)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> hi, > I’m looking to stay in sydney 30th dec-5th of jan and have decided more or > less to stay at one of the beaches rather than in the city centre (which > is > already booked up anyway!). Not having been before I was hoping to survey > opinion as to the best location. Would like reasonably laid back > atmosphere > (so in the right country) and easy access to centre. Would go for scenery > over surf probably, although decent waves are good. Is bondi too > overdeveloped? How about coogee vs manly? > Bondi is great. Yes, its very developed, but: > 1. Spectacular great scenery (take the walk around the headland to > Tamarama – most beautiful coastal walk in the world that I have ever been > on). > 2. Good surf (though most Sydney beaches have this). > 3. Loads to do, places to eat, hotels, restaurants etc. > 4. Closest beach to city centre (few kms). > I don’t know exactly what you mean by laid back. Bondi is quite a scene, > with lots happening by day and night, but if you just want to lie on the > beach and chill you can do that as well. > I would avoid Manly. Its quite seedy and has noticably deteriotated over the > last ten years. Lots of violence at night (drunken yobbos). Easy to get to > and from the city by ferry, but convenient for nowhere else. The drive is a > pain. > Coogee I don’t know so well. > I guess everywhere will be busy this time of year, are there any that > become > too full for comfort? > if you know about specific places we are looking with mid priced hotels > (flexible on price but would expect to pay about 100-200 ausd per night > for > a double room), although > thanks for any advice, I’ve found this newsgroup most useful > 100 – 200 ausd per night should buy you a very nice hotel room in any of > these places.

Response:

> thanks for the advice peter. By laid back i meant, from what you say, not > like manly! (i.e. drunken yobbos)

At Christmas, most decent accommodation at Manly or Bondi would be heavily booked. Sydney’s beaches are all suburban locations with plenty of locals as well as visitors. If you want peaceful locations, you would need to get away from the Sydney area, but I am not sure if that is really what you desire. Geoff Lillico

Response:

>hi, >I’m looking to stay in sydney 30th dec-5th of jan and have decided more or >less to stay at one of the beaches rather than in the city centre (which is >already booked up anyway!).

You might want to try one of the beaches a little further out, yet still convenient. As you said Coogee is great, but you might find the prices to high for that period. Have a look at Cronulla, great beach, less hectic, and the train goes direct to the city every 1/2 hour.  You could also take the ferry from there across to Bundina for a day trip in the Royal National Park. Tom

Response:

I almost think it would be harder to get hotels away from the Sydney area for Dec 30th – Jan 6th. Everybody in Sydney is on holiday during this period, but comparaitively few Sydney residents would be renting hotel rooms actually in Sydney. OTOH, the coast north and south of Sydney will be packed out with Sydney people getting out of the city for a few days (myself included). I definitely agree with your observation that Sydney suburban beaches in general (and Manly and Bondi in particular) are not going to be peaceful during the first week of January, particularly if it is hot.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> thanks for the advice peter. By laid back i meant, from what you say, not > like manly! (i.e. drunken yobbos) > At Christmas, most decent accommodation at Manly or Bondi would be heavily > booked. Sydney’s beaches are all suburban locations with plenty of locals as > well as visitors. If you want peaceful locations, you would need to get away > from the Sydney area, but I am not sure if that is really what you desire. > Geoff Lillico

Response:

Question:

We will cruise from Seward to Vancouver on Island Princess on 9/13 but we plan to be in Anchorage a few days before the departure of the cruise. Can you please recommend any good hotels to stay at? I have seen some good rates at Hawthorn Suites and Marriott Residence Inn does anyone have any experience with those? If you had to chose between the two which would you prefer? Thanks, Ethan

Response:

Regarding hotels in Anchorage,Hawthorne and Residence Inn are nice. Neither in a touristy area though. Check out downtown hotels, such as Marriott, Hilton, or Holiday Inn. Also consider Westmark.

Response:

We stayed at the downtown Holiday Inn in July and were disappointed. We thought it was a dump basically. The housekeeping staff was argumentative, one of my sons squished one of those huge centipedes on a hallway wall, the room wasn’t very clean, we had the room reseved for 4, but had to request 4 towels and pillows.   Next time we will consider one of the other hotels, not necessarily downtown either.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Regarding hotels in Anchorage,Hawthorne and Residence Inn are nice. Neither > in a touristy area though. Check out downtown hotels, such as Marriott, > Hilton, or Holiday Inn. Also consider Westmark.

Response:

The Hawthorne is about 9 and L.  Downtown is basically 4 thru 6 C thru I.  Our streets run numbers east/west, letters north/south. The Residence Inn is in midtown.  Really not around anything and no restaurants in walking distance. Downtown there is a Hilton, a Holiday Inn, a Clarion Suite, the Anchorage Hotel, the Westmark, the Marriott, the Captain Cook.  Here’s the link to the Anchorage Convention & Visitor’s Bureau accommodation web page http://www.anchorage.net/444.cfm .  Hopefully this will help some. Anymore questions about Anchorage, please feel free to ask. Susan in Anchorage – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > We will cruise from Seward to Vancouver on Island Princess on 9/13 but we plan > to be in Anchorage a few days before the departure of the cruise. Can you > please recommend any good hotels to stay at? I have seen some good rates at > Hawthorn Suites and Marriott Residence Inn does anyone have any experience with > those? If you had to chose between the two which would you prefer? > Thanks, > Ethan

Response:

If you have a car, we found that being downtown didn’t much matter.  Our time was probably equally split between downtown Anchorage and the surrounding area, so we stayed near the airport (Courtyard Marriott, very nice).  There were many properties near the airport to choose from, tons of places to eat nearby, and the rates were right. ~ Peri – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > The Hawthorne is about 9 and L.  Downtown is basically 4 thru 6 C thru I.  Our > streets run numbers east/west, letters north/south. > The Residence Inn is in midtown.  Really not around anything and no restaurants in > walking distance. > Downtown there is a Hilton, a Holiday Inn, a Clarion Suite, the Anchorage Hotel, > the Westmark, the Marriott, the Captain Cook.  Here’s the link to the Anchorage > Convention & Visitor’s Bureau accommodation web page > http://www.anchorage.net/444.cfm .  Hopefully this will help some. > Anymore questions about Anchorage, please feel free to ask. > Susan in Anchorage >We will cruise from Seward to Vancouver on Island Princess on 9/13 but we plan >to be in Anchorage a few days before the departure of the cruise. Can you >please recommend any good hotels to stay at? I have seen some good rates at >Hawthorn Suites and Marriott Residence Inn does anyone have any experience with >those? If you had to chose between the two which would you prefer? >Thanks, >Ethan

Response:

The Marriott Courtyard by the airport was great.  Even had A/C unlike some of the luxury hotels downtown.  NEVER stay at any Anchorage hotel in the summer that doesn’t have A/C.  Anchorage can have a heat index higher than Houston at times.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We stayed at the downtown Holiday Inn in July and were disappointed. We > thought it was a dump basically. The housekeeping staff was argumentative, > one of my sons squished one of those huge centipedes on a hallway wall, the > room wasn’t very clean, we had the room reseved for 4, but had to request 4 > towels and pillows.   Next time we will consider one of the other hotels, > not necessarily downtown either. > Regarding hotels in Anchorage,Hawthorne and Residence Inn are nice. > Neither > in a touristy area though. Check out downtown hotels, such as Marriott, > Hilton, or Holiday Inn. Also consider Westmark.

Response:

We will cruise from Seward to Vancouver on Island Princess on 9/13 but we plan to be in Anchorage a few days before the departure of the cruise. Can you please recommend any good hotels to stay at? I have seen some good rates at Hawthorn Suites and Marriott Residence Inn does anyone have any experience with those? If you had to chose between the two which would you prefer? Thanks, Ethan

Response:

Regarding hotels in Anchorage,Hawthorne and Residence Inn are nice. Neither in a touristy area though. Check out downtown hotels, such as Marriott, Hilton, or Holiday Inn. Also consider Westmark.

Response:

We stayed at the downtown Holiday Inn in July and were disappointed. We thought it was a dump basically. The housekeeping staff was argumentative, one of my sons squished one of those huge centipedes on a hallway wall, the room wasn’t very clean, we had the room reseved for 4, but had to request 4 towels and pillows.   Next time we will consider one of the other hotels, not necessarily downtown either.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Regarding hotels in Anchorage,Hawthorne and Residence Inn are nice. Neither > in a touristy area though. Check out downtown hotels, such as Marriott, > Hilton, or Holiday Inn. Also consider Westmark.

Response:

The Hawthorne is about 9 and L.  Downtown is basically 4 thru 6 C thru I.  Our streets run numbers east/west, letters north/south. The Residence Inn is in midtown.  Really not around anything and no restaurants in walking distance. Downtown there is a Hilton, a Holiday Inn, a Clarion Suite, the Anchorage Hotel, the Westmark, the Marriott, the Captain Cook.  Here’s the link to the Anchorage Convention & Visitor’s Bureau accommodation web page http://www.anchorage.net/444.cfm .  Hopefully this will help some. Anymore questions about Anchorage, please feel free to ask. Susan in Anchorage – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > We will cruise from Seward to Vancouver on Island Princess on 9/13 but we plan > to be in Anchorage a few days before the departure of the cruise. Can you > please recommend any good hotels to stay at? I have seen some good rates at > Hawthorn Suites and Marriott Residence Inn does anyone have any experience with > those? If you had to chose between the two which would you prefer? > Thanks, > Ethan

Response:

If you have a car, we found that being downtown didn’t much matter.  Our time was probably equally split between downtown Anchorage and the surrounding area, so we stayed near the airport (Courtyard Marriott, very nice).  There were many properties near the airport to choose from, tons of places to eat nearby, and the rates were right. ~ Peri – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > The Hawthorne is about 9 and L.  Downtown is basically 4 thru 6 C thru I.  Our > streets run numbers east/west, letters north/south. > The Residence Inn is in midtown.  Really not around anything and no restaurants in > walking distance. > Downtown there is a Hilton, a Holiday Inn, a Clarion Suite, the Anchorage Hotel, > the Westmark, the Marriott, the Captain Cook.  Here’s the link to the Anchorage > Convention & Visitor’s Bureau accommodation web page > http://www.anchorage.net/444.cfm .  Hopefully this will help some. > Anymore questions about Anchorage, please feel free to ask. > Susan in Anchorage >We will cruise from Seward to Vancouver on Island Princess on 9/13 but we plan >to be in Anchorage a few days before the departure of the cruise. Can you >please recommend any good hotels to stay at? I have seen some good rates at >Hawthorn Suites and Marriott Residence Inn does anyone have any experience with >those? If you had to chose between the two which would you prefer? >Thanks, >Ethan

Response:

The Marriott Courtyard by the airport was great.  Even had A/C unlike some of the luxury hotels downtown.  NEVER stay at any Anchorage hotel in the summer that doesn’t have A/C.  Anchorage can have a heat index higher than Houston at times.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We stayed at the downtown Holiday Inn in July and were disappointed. We > thought it was a dump basically. The housekeeping staff was argumentative, > one of my sons squished one of those huge centipedes on a hallway wall, the > room wasn’t very clean, we had the room reseved for 4, but had to request 4 > towels and pillows.   Next time we will consider one of the other hotels, > not necessarily downtown either. > Regarding hotels in Anchorage,Hawthorne and Residence Inn are nice. > Neither > in a touristy area though. Check out downtown hotels, such as Marriott, > Hilton, or Holiday Inn. Also consider Westmark.

Response: