Almost every day we are asked "How can we get an upgrade?" Well, if you don't wan't to pay for it here are a few tips you could try......
We all want upgrades – no one ever asked for a smaller room or a seat in the back of the plane. So how do you load the odds of scoring better service when you are on the road? Here are a few tips solicited from frequent travelers and industry insiders.
Smile – If you have ever worked with the public, you know that nothing is worse than dealing with an angry client. Make yourself likable and disarm the desk clerk or airline agent with a smile and friendly hello. You also want to make a good first impression with bartenders, waiters, and cabin stewards if you are on a cruise or staying in a resort.
Dress Professionally – When upgrades are available, agents are not going to give them to the grungy guy with a backpack. Airlines, hotels and restaurants want people who look like they paid for the premium spot, especially if they are going to give it away.
Introductions – When you get to a hotel, introduce yourself to the concierge and share your preferences personally rather than on the phone in your room. Likewise, if you are moving from one hotel to another, ask the hotel manager to make an introductory call on your behalf. But be sure to ask for it in person.
Give a Reason – When asking for hotel upgrades, give a reason rather than just asking “Do you have anything better?” If you say “I’m traveling alone with a child” or “Since I’ll be staying with you for several days, could I have something where I can spread out?” Remember that yelling doesn’t work.
Off Season – If you want special attention, know that you have better chances when you travel during off-peak times. You can also check Priceline which now lists hotels that are offering upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, parking, and other amenities.
Say Thanks – This should go without saying, but sometimes travelers forget their manners when under stress. Follow the golden rule, remember to thank those who serve you, and be sincere. Better yet, write a formal thank you and send it to the general manager! Saying thanks in the local language is worth the extra effort - and greatly appreciated.
As always contact us at www.thewaytogotravel.com or
www.hawaiianislandexcursions.com
888-750-0825
816-392-5880
Friday, March 16, 2012
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Kona.......not to be missed
Here is a bit about one of my favorite place in Hawaii.......Kona
The picturesque Kona Coast is one of, if not the most popular destination on the Big Island of Hawaii.With beaches ranging from white sand to lava rock, and plenty of fabulous dining facilities and activities to go around, Kona is truly a vacation wonderland.The region is tropical and warm all year long, with much less rain than on the other side of the island.The Big Island of Hawaii, and Kona in particular, is becoming increasingly popular because it is not as touristy as Waikiki, or Honolulu or Oahu.The shopping in Kona is marvelous, and the locals are friendly and helpful.Anyone who is familiar with Kona knows about their outstanding coffee and terrific fishing.Fishermen take particular note, as Kona offers some of the best fishing in the entire world.The Kona coast is a seventy-mile long stretch of black lava that is breathtakingly beautiful.It is located on the leeward side of the Big Island, and many areas in Kona still remain simple and agricultural in nature.Collections of small fishing and farming communities are scattered throughout the region, and it is not uncommon to see tiny villages that appear to have put a halt to technology and growth a hundred years ago.This is what makes Kona so unique and enjoyable; the fact that along with the tourist attractions, restaurants, and great beaches, there exists a natural, uninterrupted lifestyle that the native Hawaiians are still able to enjoy.The hubbub of city life has not reached many of the people who call Kona home, and this should be applauded, appreciated, and respected by all tourists.Kona is a terrific place for water sports and for seeing many diverse landscapes. Ranging from black coastal desert to lush, fertile plantations, Kona has a wide variety of geography that is ideal for exploration.Enchanting scents of coffee, exotic fruits, and gorgeous flowers fill the air, making your trip to Kona seem more and more like an exercise in taking in all the beauty the coast has to offer.The actual word Kona means leeward side and you know what that means a bright, sun-filled sky practically every day of the year.
Ready to go?
Book Below.......
Thursday, March 1, 2012
The one and only....... Waikiki Beach
Here is some background oin a vacation location that you just cant miss. Waikiki Beach should be on every travelers "bucket list"
Waikiki is Hawaiian for "Sprouting Water" and is one of the most famous beach areas in the world. When you think of Hawaii your thoughts will usually include an image of Waikiki Beach. It's really a series of beaches with their own intriguing names and flavors, Kuhio, Sans Souci, Gray's, Kahanamoku, and more. It attracts almost two million tourists every year. Ninety percent of all of the hotels on Oahu are located along the shore of Waikiki. It may be best known for its beaches but it is also has award winning restaurants, world-class shopping, and top island entertainment.
Waikiki is a 0.7-mile manmade peninsula that is 450 acres of vacation paradise in Oahu, Hawaii. Because of its size, it is easier to walk around Waikiki than to drive the one way streets and park.
At the beginning of the 20th Century, Waikiki was mainly swampland, fishponds, and duck ponds but, after the completion of the Ali Wai Canal, Waikiki turned into prime island real estate.
Waikiki was once the royal capital of Polynesian Hawaii's Oahu. Now, this beautiful beach area contains over 30,000 hotel rooms, condominium rentals, residential high-rises, and is centrally located near the major city of Honolulu. Three east-west thoroughfares wind their way through Waikiki. Kalakaua Avenue offers front door access to major hotels, shops, and restaurants. Kuhio Avenue is one block inland and offers a long, not particularly attractive scene of mid-range hotels, condos, restaurants, and shops. Ala Wai Boulevard intersects an almost uninterrupted flow of high-rise residences and condominiums.
Diamond Head offers dramatic views of Waikiki's incomparably beautiful Crescent Beach and Bay. Waikiki Beach is usually crowded but it is a very nice area where one can swim, canoe, surf and snorkel. The areas towards Diamond Head are near to the expansive picnic and recreational facilities, including those of Kapiolani Park.
Waikiki Beach is renowned for its bustling atmosphere and all night shopping. So, there's something for everyone in this island paradise.
As always contact us for a free Waikiki Beach vacation quote
The Way To Go Travel
888-750-0825
816-392-5880
www.thewaytogotravel.com
Waikiki is Hawaiian for "Sprouting Water" and is one of the most famous beach areas in the world. When you think of Hawaii your thoughts will usually include an image of Waikiki Beach. It's really a series of beaches with their own intriguing names and flavors, Kuhio, Sans Souci, Gray's, Kahanamoku, and more. It attracts almost two million tourists every year. Ninety percent of all of the hotels on Oahu are located along the shore of Waikiki. It may be best known for its beaches but it is also has award winning restaurants, world-class shopping, and top island entertainment.
Waikiki is a 0.7-mile manmade peninsula that is 450 acres of vacation paradise in Oahu, Hawaii. Because of its size, it is easier to walk around Waikiki than to drive the one way streets and park.
At the beginning of the 20th Century, Waikiki was mainly swampland, fishponds, and duck ponds but, after the completion of the Ali Wai Canal, Waikiki turned into prime island real estate.
Waikiki was once the royal capital of Polynesian Hawaii's Oahu. Now, this beautiful beach area contains over 30,000 hotel rooms, condominium rentals, residential high-rises, and is centrally located near the major city of Honolulu. Three east-west thoroughfares wind their way through Waikiki. Kalakaua Avenue offers front door access to major hotels, shops, and restaurants. Kuhio Avenue is one block inland and offers a long, not particularly attractive scene of mid-range hotels, condos, restaurants, and shops. Ala Wai Boulevard intersects an almost uninterrupted flow of high-rise residences and condominiums.
Diamond Head offers dramatic views of Waikiki's incomparably beautiful Crescent Beach and Bay. Waikiki Beach is usually crowded but it is a very nice area where one can swim, canoe, surf and snorkel. The areas towards Diamond Head are near to the expansive picnic and recreational facilities, including those of Kapiolani Park.
Waikiki Beach is renowned for its bustling atmosphere and all night shopping. So, there's something for everyone in this island paradise.
As always contact us for a free Waikiki Beach vacation quote
The Way To Go Travel
888-750-0825
816-392-5880
www.thewaytogotravel.com
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