Sunday, August 19, 2012

Traveling by overseas? or domestically? Here is what you need.

  •  Here are some rules you need to know before you travel.......
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  • All customers traveling both internationally and domestically are required to present proper identification upon flight check-in and when clearing security or Customs. It is the traveler's responsibility to provide the correct documents and failure to do so may result in being denied boarding for the flight. Regrettably, we are unable to refund unused flights, hotel, or features because of denied boarding situations.

    Please note that this information is for U.S. citizens only. Foreign travelers should visit their local consulate for travel requirements (a VISA or other written verification may be necessary). Nationals of other countries, residing in the U.S. with a Resident Alien Card, see the States Department's consular website at www.travel.state.gov.

    Domestic Travel:All domestic passengers 18 years of age or older are required to present one form of government issued photo identification (such as a valid driver's license).

    International Travel:All international passengers regardless of age must present a government issued, non-expired, U.S. passport upon flight check-in and for U.S. Customs re-entry after air, land or sea travel. For more information regarding this requirement, please consult your travel agent or visit the State Department's Consular website at www.dhs.gov.

    Before you travel, make sure you also know the entry requirements of your destination country which can be found by visiting the country's consulate or embassy web site. Airlines may require special or additional documentation for children traveling without their legal guardian beyond what is mandated by the destination country. We encourage you to contact your air carrier for clarification. 

For even more travel information:


The Way To Go Travel in Kansas City

816-392-5880
888-750-0825

www.thewaytogotravel.com
agent@thewaytogotravel.com

The Way To Go Travel: Kauai F.A.Q.

The Way To Go Travel: Kauai F.A.Q.: What is the time difference from the continental US? Hawaii follows Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), which is 5 hours behind Eastern...

Kauai F.A.Q.

What is the time difference from the continental US?
Hawaii follows Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), which is 5 hours behind Eastern Standard Time and 2 hours behind Pacific Standard Time. Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time so add one extra hour to the time difference during this period (March through November).

Where is the main airport on Kauai?
Kauai’s main airport is Lihue Airport (LIH) in southeastern Lihue. Many airlines now offer direct service to Kauai. There is also the option of flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu first and then heading to Kauai.

Do I need a car to get around Kauai?
It’s possible to get around Kauai by shuttle, tour bus, taxi or public transportation system, but to really experience Kauai, you should consider renting a car.

Where are the major hotel and resort areas on Kauai?
There are five major resort destinations on Kauai: North Shore (Princeville), East Side (Coconut Coast), Lihue (Kalapaki), South Shore (Poipu), West Side (Waimea).

Do I need my passport to get to Kauai? Since Hawaii is the 50th state, you won’t need to bring your passport unless you’re visiting from outside the United States or traveling to another country after Hawaii.

What should I pack on my trip to Kauai?
It’s warm on Kauai, so pack your summer attire. You may want to pack a light, waterproof jacket or sweater for the evenings. Suits and ties are rarely worn here.

You also might want to bring a rain poncho for hiking trails in Kauai’s tropical rainforests. Bring some casual dress clothes or resort wear if you plan on experiencing some fine dining. You can buy an Aloha Shirt and flip-flops (or slippers, as the locals call them) when you get here.
Traveler’s checks aren’t necessary since credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are everywhere. Don’t worry if you forget something. Kauai’s stores and malls have everything you need, including plenty of sunscreen.

When is a good time to visit Kauai?
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Kauai. The average temperature ranges between 84 and 69 degrees. Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round. Whale watching season begins in December and ends in May. Peak whale watching months are between January and early April.

What kind of activities do you recommend while on Kauai?
The Official Kauai Travel Planner (for your free copy call 1-800-262-1400) contains a wealth of information on various activities available on the island including wedding and honeymoon information. You can also browse the Regions, Guidebooks and Experiences section of this website for ideas.

When and where are Sunshine Markets (Farmers Markets) on Kauai?
Remember to get to the Sunshine Markets a little early, giving you first choice at the fresh fruits and vegetables.

  • Monday: Koloa Ball Park, Maluhia Road, noon.
  • Tuesday: Kalaheo Neighborhood Center, 3:30pm; Hawaiian Farmers Market, Hanalei at Waipa, 2-4pm.
  • Wednesday: Kapaa New Town Park (near the Armory), 3pm.
  • Thursday: Kilauea Neighborhood Center, 4:30pm; Hanapepe Town Park (behind the fire station), 3:30-5:30pm.
  • Friday: Vidinha Stadium parking lot on Hoolako Street in Lihue, 3pm.
  • Saturday: Kekaha Neighborhood Center, 9am; Christ Memorial Church in Kilauea, 9-11am.
Which beaches have lifeguards on Kauai?
The following beaches have lifeguards: Kekaha Beach, Salt Pond Beach Park, Poipu Beach Park, Lydgate, Kealia, Hanalei Bay, Haena Beach Park and Kee Beach. We do not advise going to Queen’s Bath because conditions are extremely dangerous.

How can I get hiking/permit information on Kauai?
Please call the State Parks office at 808-274-3444 where you can obtain a hiking and camping permit for the State parks (Kalalau and Kokee). If you are interested in obtaining a camping permit in one of the County parks, please call the County Parks office at 808-241-4463.

Where can I go bird watching on Kauai?
For a nominal entry fee, the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge (at the Kilauea Lighthouse) is a uniquely special setting for bird lovers. Framed by breathtaking views of Kauai’s North Shore, Hawaii’s endangered birds can be seen nesting in the cliffs, including the Hawaiian Gallinule, red-footed boobies, tropicbirds, albatrosses and frigate birds.

How far is it from Lihue Airport (LIH) to:
  • Hanapepe: 30 minutes
  • Kalalau Lookout: 1 hour, 40 minutes
  • Koloa: 25 minutes
  • Poipu: 30 minutes
  • Princeville: 1 hour
  • Wailua: 15 minutes
  • Waimea Canyon: 1 hour, 15 minutes
What is the area code for Kauai?
The area code for the state of Hawaii is (808).


for more information or to book a Kauai Vacation contact:

www.hawaiianislandexcursions.com
agent@hawaiianislandexcursions.com

Monday, August 6, 2012

The Way To Go Travel: Peso's or Dollars?

The Way To Go Travel: Peso's or Dollars?: This is a great question if you're heading south of the border. Whether  US dollars, or Mexican Pesos is probably the question I’m asked...

Peso's or Dollars?

This is a great question if you're heading south of the border.


Whether  US dollars, or Mexican Pesos is probably the question I’m asked most often by travelers to Mexico.

Rules have changed. In 2010, the Mexican government made banking changes and limits were imposed for how much US currency you could exchange or use for purchases.

For the best buying power.....Withdraw Pesos from an ATM. You have to know what types of service fees your bank will charge ahead of time and you have to have a 4-digit PIN code.  Also, you can’t deal with a cheapo bank that doesn’t allow international transactions. The trade off for this homework is that you’ll receive the most current International currency exchange rates with the lowest exchange fees.
Use Pesos for purchases where possible – this will give you the best rate of exchange (most prices are listed in US dollars). This can work to your advantage as long as you understand how it’s going to work ahead of time.  Hotels will give you the most accurate exchange, shop keepers and open-air markets will exchange more favorably to themselves, and taxis – well they just exchange 10:1 (today’s exchange is $1 USD : $14.02MXN).
This is also why we always tell people to pre-book excursions and shuttles.  A $80 tour to Tulum doesn’t sound like a lot, but they’ll convert it to Pesos before they process the charge (and the exchange rate usually isn’t to your benefit) and then your bank will convert it again (at an accurate rate though) but they’ll ding you an International Currency Conversion Fee (add another 2.5%!).  Tours and shuttles can all be pre-booked and are always 10%-20% lower than the posted price but after you add the exchange and Visa fees, you can increase your savings by that much more.


Happy Traveling,


Ron Trimper
The Way To Go Travel
Vacation Specialist
888-750-0825
816-392-5880
www.thewaytogotravel.com