As an industry leader, Travel Concepts would like to be first to share with you the details about the upcoming change in US Passport fees.  Effective tomorrow, July 13th, 2010, a US Passport Book will cost $135 for an adult first-time applicant and $110 for an adult renewal.   This is an increase of $25 from the previous fee.  Minors under the age of 16 years will cost $105.  There are also specific fees for a U.S. Passport Card.

There are many reasons that the U.S. Government has made the decision to approve this fee increase.  “Passport application fees enable us to keep up with technology and implement fraud prevention initiatives to protect the United States passport.”  The U.S. Passport is recognized worldwide for its security and fraud prevention measures.  Passport fees also help US citizens who have experienced some type of crisis situation overseas or have been a victim of crime while traveling.

Adult passports are valid for 10 years and children’s passports (16 and under) for 5 years.  For more information regarding this fee increase, visit http://ht.ly/2a8Dd.  To make sure you are up-to-date on all travel related news, be sure to become a fan of Travel Concepts on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter at the links below.

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Travelling is great. Whether for a business trip or for a vacation, you can enjoy seeing new places and doing new things. The packing for the trip however, can be intimidating. To make things easier, here are some packing tips for trips and travelling that you may or may not have heard of before:

Roll Over, Clothes

A good way to protect your clothes from looking wrinkled and days-old is to use the ‘rolling’ method of packing that backpackers live by. Working well with pants and sporty shirts and skirts, you start by laying the item face down, folding in the sleeves and rolling them from the bottom up.

Protect Your Pictures

Keep your film in your carry-on luggage, since the screening equipment used for the checked luggage will damage it. If the film is going to pass through more than five x-ray machines, ask to have it be hand-checked.

Label Your Goodies

If you’re taking a laptop computer or a travel DVD player, make sure to label it with a business card or other information that would identify it as yours. This prevents accidental switches in cramped flights or bus rides. LABEL your laptop computer. 

That’s A Wrap

If you buy gifts for your friends and family while on your trip, wait on wrapping them until after you make your way back home. Sometimes wrapped gifts will need to be opened for inspection.

Just the Facts Ma’am

Just in case the worst might happen and you lose all of your important information, make a back-up before you leave on your trip. Scan your important documents, like your passport photos and paper tickets, or even the “lost card” numbers on the back of your credit cards. File these images in your web-based email system so you can access immediately when they’re needed most.

We’ve Got Your Back

If you’ll be backpacking during your trip, a good tip is to store the lighter items on the bottom and the heavier items on the top. This allows for a more forgiving weight distribution, and will make the backpack feel lighter. Having the dirty clothes packed at the bottom is an ideal choice.

A Suitcase Divided…

A cheap and convenient way to put a divider in your suitcase it to use a piece of cardboard. This allows you to lay your clothes out flat on the cardboard, and makes it easy to remove sections of your packed luggage for easy inspection.

Turn Things Around

If you’re packing things that run on batteries, there’s a good chance that those things will get turned on, either by accident or during inspection. A good way to prevent the item from being left on the entire traveling time, and thereby having the batteries drained, is to turn the batteries around backwards before you pack them.

Carry On My Wayward Traveler

Keep the important things with you in your carry-on luggage. Things like medications and important documents, as well as a fresh change of clothes can be a life-saver during long or unplanned layovers. Sometimes bags don’t always travel with the passengers, and it’s a good idea to have the necessary things with you if the bags don’t make it.

For International Hygiene

Some international destinations don’t allow any liquids to travel at all. To plan for this, look online for shampoo bars and tooth powder to make up for the liquids you might not be taking

Malaga

This enchanting part of the country is often described as the seductive lady from Andalucia; Not what you expect in a tourist city. With a personality greatly influenced by its Moorish past, its native son – Pablo Picasso, and Malaguenos love of fine food, this magical destination envelops a traveler in a thrilling world of history, art and unsurpassed dining.

Mijas: a delightful 15th century village overlooking Malaga. The shrine of the Virgin Mary provides a moving spiritual connection for any seeking it. This location provides the appearance of Mary, hundreds of years ago, and continues to provide an outlet for those who seek spiritual intervention, guidance and miraculous healing. I felt a deep connection to this place.

Spain, long being famous for its olive oils, tapas and wine, provides an exemplary display with its Museo del Vino. This innovative and cultural culinary experience was delightful to all of the senses, and shouldn’t be missed for the world.

Full of charm and ambience, there is always time for shopping in Mijas. Here you will find fine leather goods, linens, pottery, jewelry and local wine, olives, olive oils and the most delicious almonds imaginable!

In the evening, a visitor can wrap up their night with an amazing local feast in Marbella’s Orange Square at Restaurante Buenaventura. The wine, the cava (Spanish sparkling wine), tapas, entrée and dessert are overwhelmingly sumptuous! There is always ‘time’ provided to enjoy a culinary experience. 

Just a little exploration of the area yields enjoyable surprises. The Equestrian Center, with its incredibly gorgeous horses and wide open spaces, the Cortijo de Corted hacienda-style venue providing equestrian showcasing, and the Marbella Club Golf Course are all located in this varied and vibrant region. This course is tucked into a very upscale environment, supplying amazing golfing and scenery to enliven the senses.

Perhaps one of the most fun, interactive treats – a Paella cooking class at the Alaberdero Playas in San Pedro. Upon entering, you are donned with a chef’s hat and apron, the necessary cooking tools and delectable ingredients, and helped to make your own creative masterpiece. The backdrop for your culinary adventure is the amazing Mediterranean Sea, with the northern coast of Africa in the not-so-distant distance, less than an hour away by boat.

The five-star Hotel Melia Don Pepe (www.donpepe-Marbella.com) plays host to amazing, oceanfront property in Marbella. The varied room/suite categories comfortably accommodate any guest. Staying here affords the chance to run into several celebrities, such as Antonio Banderas, who also enjoys casual elegance, and a trip to engage the senses and enliven the mind.

It’s hard enough to travel without worrying about everything that could happen while you’re away. Although you can’t plan for everything, there are some items you can bring along that can be helpful in many situations.

Money Belt

It’s a hidden pouch, strapped to you, underneath your clothes, and far away from a pickpocket’s curious hands. You want to keep everything essential in there. You’d be surprised at how much less you’ll worry with one of these. Beige is the most low-profile color.

Small Daypack

A small pack saves you from having to carry needless items during your daily excursions. While leaving the bigger items and toiletries in your room, you can pack a smaller bag to just carry what you need for the day.

Wristwatch

Not every place with have an alarm clock by the bed, and not every place will be the most diligent about wake-up calls. So, bring your own wake-up call.

Earplugs

If night noises are things that definitely keep you up, then this will go far in keeping you sane. Expandable foam earplugs are cheap, and very handy for the sleep-deprived.

Sewing Kit

Traveling does a lot to clothes. If your pants or shirts aren’t making it as far as you do, it could get expensive. Safety pins and a few buttons can make all the difference in the world.

Travel information.

Instead of hauling around multiple guidebooks, just rip out the pages you need (after you’ve bought it of course), and staple them together. You’ve now just created your very own custom guidebook. When you get back home, give the book away.

Journal

Not only will a record of your trip help with the nostalgic memories, but it’s also a great way to have an on-hand itinerary. Plus, having a pen and paper can go quite far in communicating with the local, non-English-speaking shop owners. For the aspiring journal-keeper: Moleskine journals have almost a cult-like following among writers.

Small Flashlight

This is handy for late-night reading, trips down hallways, or general exploration of ruins. Furthermore, it serves as a great deterrent for any would-be thieves. Get a tiny and powerful LED flashlight.

MP3/Video Player

Many MP3 players these days have long battery life, and many have built-in recorders as well. Imagine capturing that street performance or that local church ceremony. It can even help with recording journal entries for your trip.

Gifts

Not gifts for your friends and family, but gifts for any of your hosts. Small souvenirs from your hometown, gourmet candies and crafts, even t-shirts and tiny toys can go a long way towards creating a good vibe between your host family and yourself.

Knowledge is powerful; and, in our books, a healthy traveler is a happy traveler! That said, there are all kinds of reasons why you might feel out of sorts when traveling. It could be the local water supply, too many dairy or baked treats, too much eating out or alcohol, caffeine, an out of whack body clock, anxiety or simply failing to property hydrate.

Whatever the cause, whatever the reason – gastrointestinal upset is something that often goes hand in hand with traveling. There are various widely available herbal alternatives to antacids which can be used to counter these effects, making you a happy camper! And, if it’s not herbal remedies that you need, oftentimes a quick and easy to find healthy snack will do the trick. Preparation pays, so consider packing some of the following when it comes time for your next trip:

FAVORITES WITH BIG RESULTS
Peppermint
An excellent digestive relaxant, peppermint both soothes the nerves and relieves nausea. And, as an added bonus, we all know how great it is as a breath freshener! This herb can be steeped in just a few minutes and provides terrific results.

Licorice
Licorice is often added to many herbal tea mixtures in the form of powdered root to add sweetness and body to the infusion. It’s also sometimes available in a twig-like root stalk that can be chewed, or boiled in water for 15 minutes or so, to create a tea that not only soothes heartburn, but also relieves gas.

Ginger
Ginger makes an icy hot tea that can be boiled from chopped, fresh root in about 20 minutes and works wonders for nausea and motion sickness. Drying it first is ideal, but a bit more time consuming.

Cocoa
Although traditionally chewed fresh with a bit of slaked lime, to enhance absorption, cocoa can be utilized in hot tea form and is very effective in treating debilitating headaches and nausea, especially when they are a result of altitude sickness.

OTHER HERBS WORTHY OF NOTABLE MENTION
Chamomile
Chamomile possesses a light apple scent, and is a great all around soothing tea. I keep it in the house and indulge on an almost daily basis – it really is a terrific, all around great drink. Good and good for you! When it comes to this and any other tea, keep in mind that several cups of tea are often needed to feel the full medicinal effects, and hot water increases absorption.

Clove Buds
Clove buds can be carried in a bag and used as an instant breath freshener on the go. As an added bonus, they also can be used in the unfortunate event of a toothache.

Anise, Fennel, Caraway Seed
These herbs are all members of the same botanical family and are commonly used in many gin, liquor and baking recipes. All have tastes resembling licorice, with broad digestive benefits attainable through either chewing or steeping the crushed seeds.

Bananas
Bananas are good and good for you – and easy to find just about anywhere. Even better – they are a great remedy to relieve the most common digestion problems. Bananas also help to replenish potassium electrolytes after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.

Pineapple
Another healthy snack that provides relief for troubled tummies is pineapple. Pineapple contains the highly-effective enzyme bromelain, which is a great protein digestion aid.

We never anticipate not feeling well, especially with it comes time for a much-anticipated vacation. And, while you prepare for your trip and pack your familiar “remedies,” it might not hurt to consider some of these herbal remedies as well. And, in the event you do run into tummy trouble, be sure and find some healthy snacks, too, and you’ll be on your way to feeling better in no time!

Traveling in Europe is exciting but, especially if it’s your first time, there are important things to know and remember so as to ensure your journey is a safe and hassle-free one. The following 5 steps are critical:

Documents
All of the people in Europe, including tourists, are obligated to own documentation for personal identification. Since recent increases in the number of terrorists that try to enter Europe, the checkpoints on all borders have been strictly controlled. All tourists, depending on which country in Europe they intend to visit, should always have their passport and visa wherever they go. If you are unable to provide either of these documents when authorities ask for it, you would be deported, or even jailed.

Languages
There are 320 mixed spoken languages used throughout Europe today. The more important are the Baltic, Celtic, Romance, Germanic and Slavonic languages. The majority of the people in European countries speak multiple languages, in addition their mother tongue. It’s a great idea for you to learn to speak at least a bit of the local language for important questions that will contribute to the overall ease of travel.

Electricity
The majority of the European countries make use of 230 volts that operate in 50 Hertz. Prevent plugging a device intended for 60 Hertz into a 50 Hertz outlet. The end result may be damages to the facilities’ electrical system and/or your electrical device. There’s an outline in this recent blog post of more information on electricity and suggested guidelines.

Cars and Driving
In order to be able to drive a car in all European countries, you must be 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. It is illegal for a driver to NOT wear a seatbelt. This is also applicable to all passengers in the car. The majority of the countries in mainland Europe have right-hand traffic. Left-hand traffic is used only within the island of England. The insurance of all cars is obligatory. If your vehicle has been pulled over, the insurance certificate is mandatory.

Planning is important: Transportation, Food, Hotel Accommodations
Food in Europe may be expensive; plan ahead and check your travel guide and various resources available to you. Alternatively, if you’re the intrepid type, there are hundreds of local markets and groceries that provide cost-effective meal solutions and one-of-a-kind experiences. If your travels include RAIL transportation, obtain a reservation; arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before the train is scheduled to depart to ensure that you will not miss the train

This is a simple check-list of the basics that will contribute to your overall travel experience. Enjoy!

Times have changed. Along with passports, airline paper tickets, travelers would not leave home without their trusted traveler’s checks. Today, fewer merchants accept traveler’s checks – combined with the higher fees for buying and cashing them, many travelers have moved to credit, debit and ATM cards as their source of funds while on the road. Here are a few tips pertaining to international transactions.

• Visa and MasterCard typically charge a one percent fee for foreign transactions, and most banks tack on an additional two percent to convert the transactions to U.S. dollars. Be sure to check with YOUR credit, debit and ATM card providers to determine which of your cards are most travel-friendly, or sign up for a new card with a provider that waives or reduces the fees (for example: Capital One adds NO fee, and absorbs the 1% Visa and MasterCard charge, and Wachovia charges just the 1%). You do have choices – plan ahead.

• Make sure you have ample available credit and/or funds deposited, and check expiration dates on the cards you have chosen. Remember, many foreign ATM’s accept four-digit PINS only, and typically don’t display letters on the keyboards. If you use a WORD to remember your PIN, memorize the numeric equivalent before leaving home.

• Contact your provider BEFORE you leave home. Unusual foreign transactions may be flagged as fraudulent; advance notification will avoid a ‘freeze’ on your account. Be sure to take more than one card with you to ensure that you have an alternative should access to one account be declined.

• Make a list of convenient ATM locations in your destination(s) before you go. Both Visa and MasterCard have on-line worldwide ATM locators covering more than 210 countries. Make sure that YOUR ATM card displays a Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus or Plus logo for worldwide acceptance.

• Prepaid debit cards are a safe, albeit more expensive, alternative to a traditional debit or ATM card. You simply purchase the value needed ahead of time and use in ATM machines while traveling. Since the card is not connected to your checking account, there is not danger of being wiped out should it be stolen or lost, but there are usually extra fees involved.

• Make all of your purchases in LOCAL country currency, and beware of merchants offering to convert your purchases to U.S. collars. These merchants typically inflate the exchange rates by as much as 5%. KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS to reconcile your account.

• Cash-to-Cash machines are common, especially in Europe. They look similar to the ATM’s – the difference being that you feed in currency rather than a card. While they seem very convenient, they are best avoided as they charge inflated exchange rates. The same is true for currency exchange booths at many international airports.

The above information is well worth your attention. Travel Concepts provides in-depth information in all travel documents, ensuring that ALL details are provided in advance, allowing you to only look forward to this seamless journey! After all, details are our business!

You’ve renewed your passport, bought your plane ticket and have your destination accommodations confirmed and in order. Now it’s time to prepare for the little details of traveling overseas. TOP PRIORITY: making sure you have the right equipment needed to use the electrical appliances you’re brining on your trip.

All electrical sockets are not created equal! You need to know what type of voltage is used in the country you’re visiting and what type of adapter or converter is needed to provide the juice to energize your electrical appliance. A few of these must-have appliances: curling iron, dryer, laptop computer.

Do You Need Electrical Appliances?
Always something to consider – do you really need them? They may be convenience, but they provide extra weight, too. Most hotels offer hair dryers and irons, and you can easily convert to manual razors and toothbrushes instead of their electric counterparts. OR, you may simply want to consider purchasing a hair dryer or electric razor in your final destination. Battery-operated appliances provide another solution.

Converters
Most American-made electrical appliances work at 110 volts. While Japan, most of North America, and parts of South America and the Caribbean use voltage between 100-125, the vast majority of the world uses 220-240 volts. Be sure to check the label and/or owner’s manual on your appliance before buying a converter, as it might be designed to work at BOTH 110 and 220 volts – particularly if it’s a newer laptop. KEY: if your appliance only operates at 110 volts, you will definitely need to buy a voltage converter. Further complicated details: some electronics are designed for 60-cycles-per-second electricity and cannot tolerate the 50-cycles-per-second electricity found in many countries. If you are not educated in advance, you risk blowing a fuse in your hotel.

Adapter Plugs
Even if two countries operate on the same voltage, their OUTLETS might not take the same shape of plug – and that’s where an adapter comes in. An adapter will allow you only to plug your appliance into another type of outlet – not change the electrical voltage.

Where to buy adapters and converters? We recommend purchasing at most travel/luggage stores and at electronic stores like Best Buy and Radio Shack. Prices range from a few dollars to $20, so they are relatively inexpensive, in the big scheme of things. A little knowledge and research before you go will alleviate the stress of struggles – allowing you only the time to enjoy every bit of the experience – whether it’s business or pleasure.