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ArchiveWill Fly (or Buy) for Miles
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You've probably seen the recent ads addressing some customers' frustrations with frequent flyer programs. Southwest Airlines is touting "no blackout dates" for its Rapid Rewards program. Alec Baldwin is pushing Capital One's Venture Card, which allows customers to "fly any airline, anytime." If you're a member of a frequent flyer program, you've probably experienced some of the challenges of trying to earn and then cash in your miles. If you're considering joining a program, you may be wondering, "Is it worth it?" 
Fact: Air
travel is dehydrating
By
Road Reporter Sarah Roggio|
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If you've ever traveled to four cities in three days, then awakened in the
middle of the night not knowing where you were, we understand |
A Personal Safety & Awareness Message
From Woman Road Warrior
Are you forever looking for your hotel room key before you head out the door?
Get in the habit of putting it on the floor by the front door once you enter the room and secure the locks.
BTW: Business*Travel*Women
Toothpaste Tablets
By the way, when we carry our luggage onto the airplane (that is, most of the time we travel), we all worry about overloading our quart-size zip top bag and being sure that our liquid and gel containers hold no more than three ounces.
Toothpaste is one of those things that we all carry - and I don't know about you but a small toothpaste tube that just sits in my carry-on seems like a waste to me. So we have found an alternative solution.
Have you heard about or do you use toothpaste tablets? We didn't and were surprised and skeptical when we located Archtek tablets. They are just what they sound like - tablets that take the place of toothpaste.
Being the curious types we are, we road-tested the products and are happy to report - THEY WORKED. What we mean is that, after we used them, our teeth were clean and sanitized and there was no residual chalk or taste in our mouths. We felt like we had used, well, toothpaste.
The tablets are simple to use: chew, brush, rinse. We suggest you chew the table up into very fine particles and put water on your toothbrush before you begin brushing. And the best part - one less three ounce tube to worry about in your carry-on.
Frequent Flier Facts
Are you a member of an airline frequent flier club? If not, are you wondering if the rewards are worth it? We asked Brett Snyder how you should decide if or which program might be best for you. Brett is the owner/writer of The
Cranky Flier, an award-winning consumer travel blog.
WRW: Is it worth it to be in an airline's frequent flier program these days if you're not in the mid to top-tier status since you can get many of the extras by paying a fee - such as pre-boarding or extra leg room?
Brett: That's a calculation that each traveler has to make. If you fly a lot, it can certainly make sense to fly with one airline so you don't have to pay those extra fees to sit in better seats or go through security faster. But each person has to sit down and decide that for him or herself to see what works best.
WRW: What is the tipping point for being a member of an elite frequent flier program? Free upgrades, waived fees, comp drinks?
Brett: It's really just a matter of how much you fly. If you're in a hub dominated by one airline and you fly a lot, then elite state can be a great thing. If you don't fly very often, then it rarely makes sense to fly a lot more just to qualify. If you're in a place where there are multiple airlines with large presences, you might prefer to fly the most convenient option each time and not worry about elite status. That's how I fly.
WRW: What criteria should you look at if you're deciding to join a program? Obviously, how much you fly, but what else?
Brett: It's not really an exclusive club that you have to join. If you fly enough to qualify, then you get it. There's no fee or anything like that, so you just need to figure out if one airline can provide enough convenience to make it worth consolidating your flights with them. You also need to know if you're going to fly enough to even qualify.
WRW: If you're planning to pursue elite status, which frequent flier programs do you think offer the best rewards?
Brett: They all basically provide the same thing. Some people love United because you get to sit in Economy Plus with extra leg room.
WRW: Do you see any significant changes coming to other frequent flier programs like what happened with Southwest?
Brett: It's always possible but there's nothing in the pipeline that I know about.
Thanks to Brett for sharing his insights. Let us know what you think about frequent flier programs at info@womanroadwarrior.com
Event Update: Woman Road Warrior Day Celebration!
Woman Road Warrior Day Celebration
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Just Announced! Our Guest Speaker is nationally-known fitness expert and author Andrea Metcalf. She will share her secrets for staying in shape and feeling good on the road. Join us September 28, 2011 at 7 a.m. at the Standard Club, Chicago For Fabulous Fitness and Travel Tips plus a Shoe & Bag Fashion Show, Networking and a First Class Breakfast honoring Women Who Go the Extra Mile. Tickets on Sale Soon
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Scenes from the Seine
As seen on the streets of Paris from our guest
European fashion reporter Gail Holmberg:
Big news here is that high heels are out for daytime, except for short boots or if you are wearing a skirt suit with a very short skirt. Heels come out at night again with short skirts. Hose and tights are in; bare legs not so much except with sandals. Many colors and textures. But also plain. Even many boots are flats right now.
Every woman, almost, wears a scarf. Rectangular only. All types of fabrics, plain and patterns. Most men also. However, they tie them differently.
Coats are really cute with interesting details. Fabulous collars, belts, embroidery and silk inserts.
Jewelry is either modest (gold, silver, pearls) or big ethnic style pieces.
See a lot of shorts with tights. Many of those who are wearing them shouldn't be.
Lots of patterns in tops and dresses. For juniors, it is small florals and ethnic. For women, more geometric prints, large florals and ethnic. White with horizontal blue striped tops are everywhere.
Color of note is dark melon.
Lots of layering but under layers are generally not longer than outer layers.
Black is always in.
Jeans are skin tight. Vans (shoes) are everywhere. More skirts and dresses than in the states.
Women my age (50’s) wear a lot of blazers/jackets that are very well tailored.
Men’s suits are generally dark blue with subtle external stitching. Lots of purple/lavender ties. White shirts.
Young men wear narrow long jackets, with lots of pockets, with everything.
Very few hats on men or women. Handbags are pretty similar to the U.S. - Big and slouchy with gold trimming. Attractive tote bags (to carry your baguettes).
Speaking of baguettes, time for breakfast.
Gail Holmberg is President of Blue Morpho Consulting and a frequent road warrior.
A Personal Safety & Awareness Message
Catastrophic events can happen at a moment's notice
Are you prepared?
To Protect Yourself:
Make sure an ICE (In Case of Emergency) entry is in your phone contacts list
Do you have a prioritized contact list?
Does the first person on your list know who they should call and so on?
It only takes a few seconds to set up and can give you and your loved ones peace of mind
"No Frills Airline"
We may think we have it much worse these days with air travel, due to all the extra fees, long delays and costly airfares. But as you can see in this classic sketch from The Carol Burnett Show which aired from 1967-1978, it hasn't changed all that much.
BTW: Business*Travel*Women
When technology may not be your friend
By the Way, did you know that RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) has been around since 1945? It was originally developed as an espionage tool for the Soviet Union. Over the years, usage has changed and now it's used on store labels as a product identifier. Embedded in the RFID tag is unique product data that is intended to be used by the store or manufacturer.
Credit card companies are now utilizing this technology as well. What this means to you is that your financial information - account number, expiration date and other data is embedded in a chip on your credit card. In order to streamline transactions, you as the consumer have the ability to wave your card in front of a reader when paying for your purchases. Scanning your card will soon be a thing of the past.
According to Javelin Statistics, approximately 20 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2009 (an 11% increase from 2008). Future stats estimate that 1 in 20 individuals will be affected by identity theft. The RFID chip in your credit card is one more point of exposure for you.
Federal mandate as of 2006 has all US passports being issued with this technology.
How the scam works: A thief using a RFID reader (usually hidden) brushes against or gets near you, downloads your data and moves on. Although there is no physical impact, the emotional damage can be overwhelming.
We recommend 3 easy steps to determine if your card has RFID technology:
- Look for a chip or PayPass logo on your credit card
- Call and ask your credit card company
- Conduct online research
If you find your card is RFID enabled, request the code be removed from your card. RFID-blocking products, such as purses, wallets and passport holders are now available. Has anyone tried one? Send us a review at info@womanroadwarrior.com.
What Women Road Warriors Want
Dear Hotel Owners & Operators Everywhere,
We are women and we want to be accommodated as such. Is that so hard to understand?
Recent surveys of business travelers have shown that convenience, comfort, cleanliness and free wifi (a must-have) are top demands for hotel stays. We'll agree with all that plus we'd like better lighting in the bathroom.
We can break it down even further though so you know exactly how to appeal to the woman business traveler. Nearly 50% of all business travelers are women and we spend about $23 billion (yes, that's with a B) a year on travel. Impressive, huh?
We surveyed more than 500 women business travelers for our 5th Annual Woman Road Warrior Day Celebration in 2009. Almost 13% spent more than 30 days on the road each year.
All of the women we talked to had a lot of advice for the hotel industry about how to get their business and improve their stay.
We broke down their responses into 5 categories: Amenities, Perks, Convenience, Safety and Customer Service.
Amenities: "Amenities are everything Women don't forget about the little extras."
- Bathrooms
- High quality grooming products
- Hot water and high water pressure in the shower
- Plenty of fluffy towels. "I don't go back to hotels with scratchy towels."
- Bath tubs designed for a long soak
- "A robe and upscale cosmetics always makes me feel pampered."
- "Liquid hand soap in the bathrooms and shower gel in the shower. Who really uses bar soap anymore?"
- Magnified makeup mirrors
- "More complimentary liquid items so I don't have to pack them. Separate shampoo and conditioner, eye makeup remover, mini hairspray, lotion, shower gel (not soap) and shaving cream."
- "High-end power hair dryers that don't fry your hair or take forever to dry your hair. Those wimpy wall units should be outlawed."
- "Nightlights in the bathroom so you don't have to leave the bathroom light on."
- Bedrooms
- Luxurious bedding, quality sheets, good mattresses, extra pillows – "Never underestimate the value of good linens and great comforters." "Memory foam beds would be so nice."
- "Make sure every room has a coffee/tea pot with ample supplies for free. Nothing pleases me more than a hot tea at night from a well-stocked pantry."
- Cable stations aimed at women. "ESPN is not for moi."
- Variety of pillows – firm to soft
- More comfortable furniture to sit in
- Exercise videos
- More outlets by the bed with easy access
- Adjustable thermostats
- Food/Drink Service
- FREE bottled water
- Organic food available
- Microwave station with coffee, tea and cocoa, water and ice available off hours
- Cereal, yogurt and snacks for those who work late or arrive late
- Fresh fruit available throughout the day
- Coffee and snacks in the room!
- "Leave something welcoming in the room, like an iced soda, a fresh flower, a snack on a nice plate.
- Perks
- Free massage
- Free breakfast "Make those free breakfasts as delicious as you can. It starts the day off right."
- Meal coupons
- Free nights
- "Give women staying alone a little perk – a better room or offer some little perks
- "Warm chocolate chip cookies and a snack bag to send with you as you go out to spend the day."
- Business perks – massages, relaxation spas, networking with businesses in the area to offer discounts
- Convenience:
- "Make late check-out available whenever possible. A hotel night should be for 24 hours, not 18."
- Start breakfast earlier
- Rent power cords that may have been forgotten
- Keep restaurants open until published closing time. "I hate it when I arrive in the evening, call room service a half-hour before the published cutoff time, and am told the kitchen's closing."
- Free transportation to and from the airport
- Speedy check-in
- Safety:
- Close, well-lit parking structure
- Offering escorts to cars when self parking
-
-
Female-friendly rooms in the safest part of the hotel
- Interior corridors with exterior locking security
- "Never book me in a ground floor room."
- "When a woman is checking in alone and other people are close by, don't say the room number out loud!"
- Customer Service:
-
-
Keep a profile of what I like
- Be nice and polite!
- "Hire people with real personality at the front desk. The first person you encounter shapes my feel of the whole stay."
- "Be women friendly in ever aspect of your hotel – checking in, restaurant, bar, elevators, know safe running routes."
- Set things up for women. "Too much is set up for men, including size of chairs"
- "Actually scrub the tub for people who like to take baths. I usually buy my own cleaning supplies and clean the tub myself."
- Understand the difference between men and women travelers.
- "Friendly staff you can trust is the most important impression you will make on a guest when they first arrive at the hotel."
- "Make me feel at home, understand my needs, walk in my shoes."
- -"Anticipate my needs – have someone friendly, competent and efficient at the desk."
- "Upgrade the room service menu. Many women who travel alone prefer to eat in their hotel rooms. I often find the same boring choices."
- "If you want to cater to women, have a fitness center that also has women's equipment and weights in them (10 to 15 pounds is too big for women, have 8 or 12 pound weights too)."
-
Event Update: Woman Road Warrior Day Celebration!
Now
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
We know how busy you are and that you're already filling in your calendar for this fall.
So save September 28th for our 6th Annual Woman Road Warrior Day Celebration.
We're doing it again!
Travelers, shoes, bags & a First Class Breakfast, honoring women who Go the Extra Mile.
Put it on your planner and watch for updates!
Travel Resolutions for 2011 from the Traveler-in-Chief
Whatever your goals this year, I wish you safe and fulfilling travels.
See you on the road!
Kathy Ameche
Traveler-in-Chief
Champagne A Brief History and World Tour
Be an Expert for New Year's Eve
Dom Perignon, a French monk, is frequently credited with inventing champagne though it is said he actually spend years trying to get rid of those pesky bubbles that made bottles explode. Some say it was a British scientist Christopher Merret who actually figured out the way to make wine sparkle.
Champagne, of course, is a specific appellation of a part of France but sparkling wines from all around the world are popular celebration beverages. Mousseaux or Cremant are the terms used to refer to sparkling wine made in France but from Champagne region.
The Italian term for sparkling wine is Spumante with the Asti the version from Piedmont and Prosecco, the variety from Veneto, both made with the Charmat method (secondary fermentation in vats) and bottled under pressure. This method produces small long lasting bubbles.
Spain gives us Cava, Portugal Espumante, South Africa Cap Classique, Hungary Pezsgo and Russia - Sovetskoye Shampanskoye.
America's first sparkling wine, made from Catawba grapes, came from Ohio once the biggest wine-producing state in the country. Now you can get fine sparkling wine from New Mexico (Gruet), California (Iron Horse Sonoma, Domain Chandon Napa) as well as from Texas (Flat Creek Estate).
The Tedeschi winery on Maui offers Hula O Maui Sparkling Wine made from pineapple as well as the more traditional Maui Brut Sparkling Wine. A characteristic of American sparkling wines that the cuvees or blends may have as many as 20-30 different wines taken from grapes over 4-6 years.
Why not find you own local sparklers and have a tasting (non-alcoholic sparklers may include apple, pear and pomegranate juices). A "flight" of sparklers may include the same type of wine from various areas or a tasting from dry to sweet, expensive to cheap. Sweetness in "champagne" goes from Extra Brut (the driest) to Brut, Extra Sec, Sec, Demi-Sec (Semi-sweet) to Doux (very sweet). Some say that the sweeter versions are more likely to bring on a New Year's Day headache.
Even if you only have a token sip as part of a toast, starting the year with a bit of bubbly is both traditional and inspirational. As has been said, "When I win, I deserve it and when I lose, I need it." The Iron Horse winery calls it "the drink of optimists." However your year has been, champagne will hit the spot and usher in a year of possibilities.
Here's to the Veuve Cliquot!
The
Woman, the Technology and
Entrepreneurship behind the Bubbly
Frequently referred to as the Grand Dame of Champagne, Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin was the widow (veuve in French) of Francois Cocquote. She took over the champagne operations in 1805 and made her product the preferred brand in royal courts throughout Europe including Imperial Russia. (She must have traveled a lot and her father owned a hotel early day Woman Road Warrior.)
Under her stewardship the winery developed the riddling rack a new technology that improved the process of remuage i.e. the shaking and twisting that get the wine solids to settle so they can be removed. Due to these advancements their champagne was sometimes called the first "modern" champagne.
In 1972 the champagne house set up an award for female owners or managers of companies. Today the brand still has the royal warrant of Queen Elizabeth II but is part of Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy.
Something old In July of this year, Finnish divers found bottles of Cliquot champagne from the 1830s in a shipwreck in the Baltic Sea. Before that, the oldest bottle found was one from 1893, found inside a sideboard in Torosay Castle, Isle of Mull, Scotland
Something New - You can follow Veuve Cliquot on twitter. Recent posts offered "bubbly and bedtime stories" as well as the "DKNY for Cliquot" snow boot sale.
Video Getaways
At
some point over the holidays you may find yourself alone or wishing
to be alone. Could be time for a video getaway. Nothing to pack,
you can wear your most comfortable clothes and you have the option
of refreshments which you can share with a friend or not.
"Eat, Pray, Love" Whether you read the book or not, it seems like a wonderful theme for ending or starting a year. For the price of a DVD rental or download you can follow Julia Roberts as Elizabeth Gilbert on her trek from Italy to India to Indonesia. Appropriate accompaniments might be Prosecco, Pasta and Tiramisu. Roger Ebert called it "shameless wish-fulfillment." Okay, for just one night, how bad could that be?
"Under the Tuscan Sun" Diane Lane leaves her life in San Francisco to get away from it all buys a crumbling villa in Tuscany. A real estate agent, a pregnant friend, a charming stranger well you can imagine. I'd try this with a nouveau Beaujolais, something not too heavy. Oranges would evoke the sun part plus French bread with sweet butter.
Looking for a good cry? Try "Nights at Rodanthe." This time Diane Lane fills in for a friend who owns an Inn on the North Carolina coast and has only one guest - Richard Gere. Great house, beach and a fun scene where she cleans out her friend's pantry of canned food including Spam, succotash and lard. Here's an opportunity to check your own collection of unopened goodies and either feast on them or fling them out.
"Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants." Four friends who have grown up together in Maryland are going to be separated for the first time as three of them go off for summer adventures - one to Greece, one to Mexico, and one South Carolina. Consider the possibilities - pita and tzatziki, nachos and salsa, peaches and seafood. Or just stock up on your favorite slumber party food popcorn, soda and something chocolate. Maybe you even know a teen-ager who would deign to join you.
For the socially networked you can share your getaway with a friend across the country. Get the same movie and Facebook, Twitter or IM your comments.
Need some inspiration. Get TEDWomen.
Last
week the first ever TEDWomen Conference was held in Washington,
DC. TED Technology, Education and Design is a 26-year-old organization
which was formed to disseminate "ideas worth spreading." TED talks
are offered online at TED.com and have had some 300 million viewers.
In its most recent iteration, more than 70 women spoke on a wide
range of topics from cyborg anthropology to fashion.
Speakers included Joan Halifax, ecologist and Zen Buddhist teacher; Eve Ensler, playwright The Vagina Monologues; and Donna Karan. In conjunction were many TEDxWomen programs from Doha and Amsterdam to Singapore and Santa Monica. At TEDxWomen Bay Area, basketball coach Tara VanDerveer was on the program along with Jill Tarter, Director of the Center for SETI Research.
So many great quotes Former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, "Women's issues are the hardest issues; they are the ones that have to do with life and death." Johanna Blakley, deputy director of the Norman Lear Center, "If you want to understand the audience in the global village, figure out what amuses them," and Sejal Hathi, Yale student and founder of empoweragirl.org, "I made it my mission to build a sisterhood of change-makers."
Saving Money Good - Flexibility and Perks Better
Orbitz
for Business recently compiled a survey of what motivates corporate
travelers. The conclusion? Ancillary services and perks that make
life a little easier.
The aisle seat, early boarding, airline lounge access and a seat near the front topped the list. Extra legroom and baggage check were the next two with in-flight internet access at the bottom of the list. Could it be that we like to be "disconnected" for awhile?
For hotels we like proximity (to where we're doing business) and points (love those loyalty programs). Next on the list WiFi, fitness rooms and the like.
Interesting to note that while 93 percent of business travelers always carry a mobile device, only 28 percent of them use it to plan and book travel - and of that number, most use it for flight check-in and updates, according to Orbitz.
84% said they anticipate the same or more travel in 2011 but only 38% felt a strong obligation to saving their company money.
Time Lapses Planes Fly
The
Wonder of Flight in Four Parts
When you are struggling through the airport to get to the plane, you can easily forget how remarkable it is that so many planes are taking off and landing. Here are some offerings on YouTube.com that remind one of the big picture and the miracle of it all.
For those of you not traveling by plane this holiday season, feel free to fly vicariously from the comfort of your office or living room. The time lapse photography plus music make these magical and entertaining.
- This one
is of planes landing at Love Field in Texas.
- Sunrise
at Gatwick features a magical light show and matching music.
- 24
hrs at LAX The rock version with Canned Heat On the Road
Again.
- GE
Paths of Flight The best for last, a time lapse compilation
of planes taking off and landing with a Zen music score suitable
for meditation.
Re-Training
As
plane service becomes less convenient, high-speed train travel
is showing resurgence. Amtrak's Acela has been so aggressively
marketing it's 10 year old service between Boston and New York
that it has bought 12 by 115 foot high banner across the roadway
at Logan Airport.
Train prices are comparable to the plane fare but can take twice as long. However, depending on your commute time to the airport and where you need to end up in your destination city, taking the train can be faster for many commuters. And Amtrak offers free Wi-Fi.
According to the New England Transportation Institute, Amtrak now transports 55 percent of passengers in the Boston-New York air-rail market, up from 16 percent in the mid-1990s. In addition to the billboard a TV campaign snidely twits the vagaries of airline security saying that on the train you can take off your shoes "only if you feel like it."
Gift Giving - When Money is No Object.
Each
year Neiman Marcus famously offers the ultimate in Christmas giving
through its Christmas Book. This year's 50-year anniversary edition
offers the opportunity to have glass artist Dale Chihuly turn your
pool into a work of art for $1.5 million. Christmas Book 2010 is
also offered as an iPad app so you can carry visions of high-end
sugarplums with you.
There are always travel options for the family on the go this year's his- and-hers gift a 48 x 12 foot houseboat at $250,000 or a Limited Edition Camaro for $75,000. In 2001 they offered a limited edition Bell helicopter for $6.7 million and in 1962 they sold nine Chinese Junks at $11,500 each.
For those of us a bit closer to the ground, Delta is offering a taste of the high life, a 5-hour Fleet membership Card for private jet travel, now available starting at $27,500 for the light jet category.
Please Turn Off Your Phones Oh, Nevermind.
Emirate
and Malaysia Airline allow in-flight cell phone use and next year
Virgin Atlantic is going to experiment with it as well. In order
for this to be an option in the United States there would have
to be new rulings by both the FCC and the FAA.
Currently the FCC bans in-flight cell calls as a way of preventing interference with cell phone towers on the ground that might get hit with thousands of phone signals moving overhead.
It's The FAA that is concerned with preventing interference with plane functions. Experts can be found who say that cell phones actually present very low risk to navigation systems. In the first episode of the West Wing series, presidential communications director Toby Ziegler gets testy with a flight attendant who won't let him make a call regarding POTUS being in an accident. He famously rants, "We're flying in a Lockheed Eagle Series L-1011. Came off the line twenty months ago. Carries a Sim-5 transponder tracking system, and you're telling me I can still flummox this thing with something I bought at Radio Shack?"
Meanwhile the National Business Travel Association supports the ban on phone conversations, though is positive about email, texting and instant messaging. Rick Seaney, co-founder of FareCompare.com said surveys show that about 85% of people are against in-flight cell calling citing and NBTA's director of public policy concurs saying "phone conversations can be disruptive in such an environment when so many require the few hour of peace between meetings."
American Express Extends "Shop Small" Campaign
American
Express cardholders can register for a $25 statement credit when
they buy from a small business that takes the American Express
card. The program has been extended through 12/31.
Many Women Road Warriors are owners of small businesses so we encourage your to support your own. We'll be doing a newsletter next week of gift recommendations so let us know your favorites and we'll try to include them.
Our sister site www.miccimicci.com is our small business. Our bags are made in the United States and from materials that are easily washable so that they can be used over and over in a "sustainable" way. Check out our Satchels, SnapBack bags and Travel Treads, all designed for optimum travel-ability.
Eat now TRYP next year
Wyndham has
announced a brand-new hotel for mid-town Manhattan next spring. The
TRYP New York City-Times Square South is will be at 345 West 35th
Street, between Eighth and Ninth Avenues and is part of the TRYP
brand acquired in June from a Spanish hotel company. The hotel
will offer "fitness rooms" that include fitness machines and workout
clothes as well as "family rooms" featuring bunk beds. Anticipated
room rates will range from $200 to $300.
Congratulations!
The Kimpton Hotel
Chain recently received an award from the Human Rights Campaign
for demonstrating that they "value equality for consumers and
employees alike". Kimpton has also won awards for it's green hotel
practices and was featured on Fortune's "100 Best Places to Work" list
in 2009.
T2 4U @ SFO in 2011 - Airport of the Near Future
Some
383 million dollars into its remodel, the new Terminal 2 is scheduled
to open in the middle of next year. It will be home
to Virgin Air and American Airlines. The Admirals Club will be
more than 10,000 square feet and will offer showers and a real
working fireplace. The Terminal is going for Silver LEED certification
and will feature both sculpture and a children's play area.
Small Business Saturday and Us
This
weekend you have the opportunity to participate in Small Business
Saturday. Initiated by American Express, this is a day
to show your thanks for small businesses (which represent almost
2/3 of new jobs). Thirty-eight percent of small businesses are
started run by women so here's double chance to support your
fellow woman road warriors.
Discounts and rebates are being offered by American Express see www.smallbusinesssaturday.com and Small Business Saturday on Facebook.
Thanks to all the small businesses who provide convenience, charm and special products and services. Oh, and we are one too. See our updated www.miccimicci.com site starting tomorrow. Use this 10% off coupon code, good through Monday. WRW2010.
Technology Update -The future at your fingertips and on your boarding pass.
Pranav Mistry has invented a wearable technology called Sixth Sense that could make real sense to the traveler. He started out using physical items as keys to the digital world for example if you put your boarding pass on a map at the airport it will tell you where your gate is.
Then he reversed direction and thought of painting the physical world with digital information. He conceived of a way that you could get a visual digital projection of your current flight status on your boarding pass.
Another traveler-friendly concept is making a camera part of your clothing rather than carrying a camera with you. You just make the gesture of taking a photo with your fingers and you get the photo. He also shows the finger-first application of "pinching" information from one place to another.
That's just a step away from browsing the internet using your fingers digital data controlled by your manual digits. In the short-term future your fingers may do the walking, talking, searching and delivering.
Hotel Enticements
Oh
yes, hotels are competing for your business and they are trying
all kinds of enticements. Here are three recent announcements that
caught our attention:
1. Respire by Hyatt Hypo-Allergenic Rooms "designed to provide a comfortable sleeping environment for all guests, especially allergy sufferers." What you get is a purification system provided by PURE Solutions that provides "up to 99 percent of impurities filtered out." Currently available in 60 hotels in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Can Francisco, Orlando, Atlanta and Washington, D.C.
2. Marriott's Renaissance Hotels Free Concerts. The chain is offering up hot local performers in lobby concerts as part of "RLife Live." According to the RLife blog, November shows at the RLounge in Times Square featured DJ-ing by Solange Knowles and Samantha Ronson plus Singer Robin Thicke.
3. New York City's Marcel at Gramercy hotel has a tattoo artist-in-residence and pop-up tattoo parlor (or is that salon?) through November 24th. Other offers reasonable rates (for New York), newly remodeled high fashion rooms and possible celebrity sightings.
4. But maybe you just want to sleep here's an opportunity to try out the world's most expensive mattress. The Hastens Luxury Bed retails for $3000 to $54,000 and is made of horsehair by a Swedish company that has been in business since the 1800s. You can sleep on one for a night at The Peninsula Hotel, Chicago, the Hotel Bel Air in LA and the Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix amongst others.
Holiday Luggage Strategies
Pack
it Remember that packages in your suitcase should be unwrapped
so they can be inspected.
Send it Freight and Postal Services
Send holiday presents ahead via Federal Express, UPS and USPS.
The US post office now offers flat rate boxes, which are terrific one
price for whatever you can fit in them. No worrying about measuring
and calculating. They also offer tracking and pick-up. You may
want to slip your snow boots into a box so they'll be there when
you arrive and avoid taking up space in your luggage.
Send it - Luggage Shipping and Delivery services
Services such as Luggage Forward (which includes Virtual Bellhop,
Sports Express and Luggage Express), Luggage Free and Zoom Luggage
are happy to pick up your luggage at your house or hotel and
deliver it to your destination hotel, cruise or chalet. A regular
sized bag one-way can easily cost $100-$120. Of course if you
deduct the $35 or $40 price that many of the airlines might charge
it starts to look a bit more reasonable.
This mostly makes economic sense if you are going to multiple locations and don't, for example, want to schlep your ski clothes or business clothes to your Florida vacation with you; OR if you have oversized sports equipment OR if you have a bad back, low tolerance for crowds or a dream of sailing through security and holiday lines with only your carry-on bag. Could be a worthwhile indulgence.
Other strategies: Throw-Away Clothes
This is most suitable for a limited wardrobe event or vacation.
Take your oldest clothes and throw them away when you get there
or before you return. This can be married with the buy-new-stuff-strategy
that can be applied on a minimal, as needed basis, with the shopping-spree
option.
Tag You're it!
Taking
DIY to a whole new level, American and Delta airlines are trying
out a plan at Boston's Logan Airport where customers will print
out and put tags on their own luggage. Both carriers, as well as
Air Canada, are launching test programs that would have passengers
tagging their own luggage with stickers printed out at self-service
kiosks.
Passengers will still stand in line for an agent who will check ID, scan the tag to validate it and place bags on the conveyor belt. Then the bags will be screened by TSA, so there is no change in security nor any added risk (except maybe a paper cut) according to the airlines. Meanwhile at the Houston airport Continental has begun testing self check-in.
I'm reading the tea leaves? Soon we'll be getting up in mid-flight and get ourselves a snack, and when we feel frustrated by the whole procedure we can yell at ourselves and then get huffy and insult ourselves right back.
Taking the positive approach there are already 32 airports in the world that have some kind of self-tagging kiosks. At some of these, you don't even have to see an airline agent after you've tagged your bags.
As my grandmother always said if you want something done right, do it yourself.
Kathy Ameche
Traveler-in-Chief
Marriott is the Cat's Meow in the Big Apple
According
to Crain's New York Business Marriott International will double
the number of hotels it currently has in New York City over the
next three years. Some will be the budget-style a la the SoHo Courtyard
but Marriott has also expressed an interest in adding more independent
hotels to its Autograph Collection.
The Autograph Collection which recently added the famed Algonquin Hotel to its roster - is a marriage of Marriott with it's central reservation system and rewards points with some of the classic boutique independent hotels. The first New York hotel to be selected, the Algonquin is the oldest operating hotel in New York City. It's history dates back to Dorothy Parker and the Roundtable days plus it has hosted a cavalcade of entertainment greats in its iconic Oak Room. It was the first hotel to offer electronic key cards, and the first to welcome women traveling alone.
Some say the most famous guest of the hotel is Matilda the Cat who has been there in one incarnation or another since the 1930s. Every year she celebrates her birthday in August. She even has her own Facebook page.
Seen at Baggage Claim
You
never know what you'll see coming down the chute at baggage claim.
I've seen tennis rackets, golf bags, skis, snowboards and strollers,
humongous duffel bags and roller bags that would house a family
of four. The bag population is still overwhelmingly black and boring
but now and again one will see a polka dot, purple, orange or floral
contribution to the scene.
Last time I arrive in San Francisco I saw something I hadn't seem before on the carousel - a suitcase in a see-through raincoat. Perhaps the owner of this bag knew that it can be damp in the Bay Area or perhaps shopped at the same place where my grandmother used to get her rain gear.
Actually Hartman and Luggage Protect™ both offer versions of this A nifty solution for keeping your bag dry and clean in a soggy situation.
Getting Organized the App
Most
people wake up on New Year's Day and say "this year I'm really
going to get organized." Woman Road Warriors know that by then
it's already too late. November means the holidays are right around
the corner and there are lists to be made, calendars to be filled
in and travel plans to be set. Let the organizing begin!
What helps you get organized? Your iPad, iPhone, pda or Daytimer? Do you use a software program for travel? This month we'll be exploring the many ways to get organized. We hope you'll chime in with your experience and favorites (put it on your list).
First up do you use an app or computer program to help organize your itineraries? The Numbers program from Apple for the iPad / iphone $9.99 includes a template for travel planning including a way to generate itineraries, packing lists and emergency phone numbers. Oh, and it's also a spreadsheet program. www.apple.com Trip-It also offers a mobile app that let's you put in your travel information and delivers up a full-blown detailed itinerary. It will also give you hotel addresses, flight numbers and other back-up information. www.tripit.com
Data Security on the Road
Many
of us carry laptops with us when we travel and have learned to
never have them out of our sight. We have heard of laptops being
stolen from overhead bins so we keep ours underneath the seat in
front of us. Concern mounts if you are carrying important data
on your laptop, whether it's your small business venture, great
invention or corporate documents. You can compound that concern
when you travel internationally. The new ruling from the courts
that says your laptop and all it's information can be opened and
read by customs officers when you enter or re-enter the United
States.
A few things to consider:
If your company has secured servers you will probably want to file
or back-up information from your overseas destination. Back up
onto an encrypted jump drive is also a possibility. Another option
is to rent a laptop when traveling internationally and wipe the
hard drive clean (get direction on this from your IT folk) when
you drop it off.
Secret Code - Free book at DIA
Firstbank,
with branches in Arizona, California and Colorado has decided to
keeps travelers entertained while waiting for their flights. As
part of their "Helpfulness" campaign they have billboards at a
Denver airport which feature QR (Quick Response) Codes.
People with a camera phone equipped with the correct application (Android and some iTunes apps) can scan the code and download free classic books like Jack London's Call of the Wild. Also available - crossword and sudoku puzzles.
For more info: http://www.thedenveregotist.com/news/local/2010/october/14/nice-airport-board-firstbank
A Seat for You at the Airport Lounge
There
are many comforts and amenities to be found in the airport executive
lounge but not all of us qualify as elite travelers for every airline
and the annual memberships can be steep (most are more than $300
per year).
American Express has a program for Platinum Card members that get them into some lounges for free when they are traveling on that airline and have bought their ticket with their American Express card.
Day Passes are also frequently available. Depending on the amount of time you are going to be in an airport and what you need to accomplish, it can be well worth it for the WiFi and snacks alone. United's Red Carpet Club access is $35 per day if reserved online, $50 at the door or 7,000 miles.
Another option is an independent lounge program such as Priority Pass, which offers access to 600 lounges around the world for varying annual fees depending on your level of use.
A Connection Between Taste Buds and Ear Buds?
This
food doesn't sound so good. Try a side of iPod.
Researchers now believe that one of the reasons airplane food is unappealing is the effect of airplane noise on our taste buds. Noise canceling headphones or playing music may improve your dining experience. That is, if you can find an airline that will serve you a meal. We're not sure that any sound can improve the taste of pretzels.
Late Again? Airport Delays
The
Department of Transportation just released the latest figures on
airports with the best/worst on-time records. No surprise,
the airports servicing New York City lead the bottom of the pack. San
Francisco was another one. Anyone who has ever flown into
SFO knows that the runways are right on the bay (not much room
for expansion) and frequently foggy (okay, mostly foggy). Which
were the best? Seattle (SEA), Phoenix (PHX) and Salt Lake
City (SLC).
The good news is that delays are down overall almost 5% from two years ago. On the other hand (being cynical), the report is based on information from the airlines. To improve their record airlines can just change the estimated flight times. The fact that there have been fewer flyers due to the recession might also be a factor.
A Little Flight Reading
"It's
never a good sign when the flight attendant is crying"
That's the first line of the novel AIRTIME by Hank Phillippi
Ryan.
No airplane accidents occur but Hank Phillippi Ryan's heroine, Charlotte (Charlie) McNally, investigative reporter does do some flying and other kinds of traveling as she goes undercover to crack the case of counterfeit designer purses. She also has to juggle a resistant boss, a persistent fiancé and soon-to-be teen-age stepdaughter.
Ryan herself recently traveled to San Francisco for Bouchercon, the big mystery readers' conference, where she was awarded an Anthony Award and a Macavity Award for her short story "On the House." When not on the road promoting her books she is an investigative reporter at WHDH in Boston.
Avatar at the Airport
Many
airports feature works of art. The Amsterdam airport has a museum
of Dutch Masters for travelers to enjoy, SeaTac features some great
contemporary artists, SFO is home to the country's first accredited
airport museum, Atlanta has a flying corncob sculpture and Chicago's
Midway has the Blues Brothers.
Currently on display at LAX is an installation called "Dispersion" by Meeson Pae Yang. Born in Indianapolis, Yang now lives in LA. Her work has been shown internationally from Switzerland and Hong Kong to Dallas and Phoenix.
It is "a fantastical interpretation of plant spores spreading through the air", created from various sized balls of moss suspended from extensions which hold plastic capsule seedlings. She created this work, which feels like a visit to the planet Pandora from the movie Avatar, by combining natural and synthetic materials including preserved Irish moss, Reindeer moss, Sphagnum moss, artificial moss, silicone, acrylic capsules, silicone tubing, vinyl and steel.
State of Mind
Recent
warnings from the State Department have left a number of people
confused. To find out the exact wording and details, you can go
to the state department's website travel.state.gov/travel.
If you are traveling overseas in an area of concern they recommend that you register with the embassy. They also make this easy to do on the website. You can also register your emergency contact information and can authorize information to be released to medical/legal/family and other designees. If your company or travel agent has a local contact you might want to include them.
The advice offered is common sense but worth repeating: When possible travel with another person or in small groups. Don't call attention to yourself and avoid large crowds and disturbances.
As always when traveling it's wise to make sure someone knows where you are. Texting is a great way to let a colleague or family member know your whereabouts and plans. And make sure you have ICE (in case of emergency) numbers in your phone or in your wallet.
Woman Road Warrior Day
Maria
Wynne - Girls Scouts of Chicago and Northern Indiana
2010 Woman Road Warrior Day Honoree Future Division
Maria was named Chief Executive Officer for the region this spring after two decades as a corporate executive. Her years at Microsoft, Xerox and Ameritech have given her plenty of experience. Spending her childhood years in Bogota, Columbia gave her a global view at an early age. She "Goes the Extra Mile" developing programs and opportunities for future Woman Road Warriors, executives and entrepreneurs. As part of her duties, she travels across two states, 10 counties and 245 communities. And on the weekend she takes singing lessons. Congratulations Maria.
Decide What You "Don't Want"
Recently
I spoke to Women In Technology International (www.witi.com)
at one of their 'First Thing Tuesday @ ING Cafe' meetings about
how to reboot your career. Seems like this is something that
comes up every few years how to keep moving on, moving up and
staying motivated.
For me I've been a corporate executive, consultant and entrepreneur. Making the transition has often been jarring and one of the hardest things is figuring out what you really want. This is a big one and frequently stops people in their tracks.
I recommend starting with an "I don't want" list. Once you've gotten the "Don't-wants" out of the way your plan for yourself will become a lot clearer.
A few other steps on my reboot list:
Have a plan, even if it's only a short-term one
Be able to say who you are and what your goals are in 25 words
or less
Be open the next leap forward may come via a circuitous route
How you present yourself really matters
Don't let fear hold you back
Kathy Ameche, Traveler-in-Chief
Woman Road Warrior Day
Our
5th Annual Woman Road Warrior Day was a great success with
good food, good friends (both old and new) plus a shoe fashion
show and our own private shoe salon.
We had attendees from as far away as California and Florida who
showed up in their favorite and finest shoes including Andrea Metcalfe,
author of "Naked Fitness" who appeared in her running attire. We'll
be sharing videos, pictures and shoes from the event here on the
web page and on Facebook over the next few weeks. Thanks to all
who participated and put October 4th 2011 on your calendar for
next year's event.
Kathy Ameche, Traveler-in-Chief
Caption – Kathy with Award Winner Ana Belaval, WGN Reporter
Woman Road Warrior Day Report
What
a day! What a great group of women! What a great bunch of shoes!
We had a great time at the Great Shoe Show Extravaganza and will
be posting details and pictures soon. Meanwhile, here's how you
can access some of the fantastic shoes that were on display. Thank
you to our fabulous shoe purveyors for their support and style.
salamandershoes.com Salamander Shoes of Chicago and owner Angela Aufegger The Lincoln Square favorite has been selling hard-to-find European shoes since the 1970's. The winner of the Best Shoe Store by the Chicago Reader specializes in shoes that are cute, stylish and comfortable - every woman's dream.
shirise.com Shirise of Glencoe and buyer David Sugg Shirise has been selling designer shoes to women across Chicagoland since 1985. The family-owned business features couture including Jimmy Choo, Yves St. Laurent and Taryn Rose, along with hundreds of other hot styles from the runways of New York, Milan and Paris.
toms.com TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. TOMS gives you a chance to do good, feel good and look good. Check out the extraordinary new Wrap Boots, Botas and Snazzy Wedges. There are TOMS for Moms and for travelers of all descriptions. Great for slipping on and off going through security. This fall TOMS asks "Where Will Your TOMS Take You." Hit the road with TOMS.
"Women Who Go the Extra Mile and the Shoes They Do It In"
This
year's Honorees - Women who have traveled far, fast, often and
to extraordinary lengths to give service and inspiration:
Maria Wynne Woman Road Warrior Future Division Maria "Goes the Extra Mile" serving the Girl Scouts of Chicago and Northern Indiana developing programs and opportunities for future Woman Road Warriors, executives and entrepreneurs. Her travels take her across two states, 10 counties and 245 communities to ensure that 95,000 girls in our region have the chance to become Girl Scouts. Congratulations Maria.
Ana Belaval Woman Road Warrior Media Division. As a reporter for WGN on Around the Town, Ana "Goes the Extra Mile" each morning all over the Chicago Area to show Chicagoland in all its' personalities. No doubt, she has worn out more than one pair of shoes doing this. Her multiple roles as blogger, comedian, mom and community supporter inspire with their energy and humor. Not only is she is an award winning journalist but is also involved with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation's Dancing with Chicago Celebrities. Congratulations Ana.
Barbara Vey Woman Road Warrior Literary Division. Barbara is a popular blogger for Publishers Weekly based out of Milwaukee. She "Goes the Extra Mile" to book shows and conventions around the world finding and delivering to her readers guidance and appreciation for the fun, fine and fantastic in contemporary books. She has particularly encouraged young readers and has a faithful following among literati of all descriptions. Thank you Barbara.
Sarah Fisher Woman Road Warrior - Speed Division. Sarah couldn't make it to the event because she was on the road, literally. Sarah "Goes the Extra Mile" as a professional racecar driver the youngest woman to ever compete in the Indianapolis 500 - and she is now the first ever woman team owner. In 2010, she competed in her 9th Indy 500, marking the most number of starts for a woman in the history of the event. This past year besides competing around North America and in Japan she found time to write her first book. Congratulations to the remarkable Sarah Fisher.
Celebration, Entertainment, Shopping
Celebration,
Entertainment, Shopping
It's all coming together WGN's Marcella Raymond will act as hostess for the event and we will have sketch entertainment from some talented and funny ladies by way of Second City, a fantastic Shoe Fashion Show and our own private Shoe Salon.
Of course we'll honoring some women who have travelled the farthest, the fastest, the most often and go to the most unusual places or most extraordinary lengths to give service to their clients or community.
Winners will be featured in story and picture on womanroadwarrior.com, Facebook, Twitter or better yet attend The Great Shoe Show Extravaganza and First Class Breakfast and get the stories first hand.
The Great Shoe Show Extravaganza and First Class Breakfast
Start
the day right with a celebration of women, food and fashion
When: Tuesday, September 21st from 7-9:30
Where: The Standard Club of Chicago 320 South Plymouth Court, Chicago, Illinois 60604-3859 (312) 427-9100
Treat yourself (and a friend) to a First Class
Buffet Breakfast.
No skimpy vanishing airplane meal here. Coffee, Tea and Networking.
Share a Pair - We have partnered with Bridge to
Success, a Chicago based non-profit that will be accepting donations
of gently worn shoes at the event.
Join us for a Fantastic Shoe Fashion Show (and
virtual shopping), Entertainment and Tips on how to Put Your Best
Foot Forward Plus Awards to women who Walk the Walk in extraordinary
ways.
Individual Tickets $15.00
Crystal Ball Travel Link?
Blogger
and Journalist Jagdish Hathiramani has been writing about the future.
This week he got around to looking at the future of travel and
his view is mostly optimistic for business travelers.
Here are the five things we found most intriguing.
- 50% cleaner planes as older aircraft get phased out and airlines fight the rising cost of jet fuel by investing in more fuel-efficient equipment.
- Shorter flight times - UK to Australia in 2 hours anybody? NASA's scramjet experiments may show the way.
- Inflatable seats - One size that can fit all
- Business Class only flights and terminals - the ultimate end of the current push to business flyers
- And for that vacation - Short but spectacular Sub-orbital space flights for tourists in 2011 by Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic venture.
for more http://jagdishhathiramani.wordpress.com
MOTEL 6 GETS A "10" FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND DESIGN
Long
known as a budget chain, Motel 6 has become the nation's first
LEEDฎ certified economy lodging property. Green features include
thermal solar water heating, a reflective cool roof, low e-glass
tinted windows, occupancy-sensing thermostats, drought-resistant
plants, and low-flow pressurized toilets.
Meanwhile the design team has been busy. One of our correspondents driving across country decided that Motel 6 would be an inexpensive and nostalgic place to say. Imagine his surprise when he discovered a room with Euro-chic design by Priestmangoode of London, a 32" flat-screen TV, wood-effect flooring and granite bathroom countertops. This face-lift (already incorporated in more than 70 locations) won Travel + Leisure magazine's 2010 Design Award for "Best Large Hotel."
So now Motel 6 is both Green and Groovy. They'll still "Leave the Light on for you" but now it's a low-energy bulb.
Photo courtesy of Parker Laramie
"Full fare" or "full fare-plus"? Do you want legroom with that?
In
the last budget year, 10 U.S. airlines collected $7.8 billion in
additional fees, congressional accountants say.
At hearings in Washington last week Rep. James Oberstar, D-Minn. said the public will push back "and then Congress will act" if the industry does not show restraint with the fees. "That's not a threat," he said. "That's history."
Here's what the Airlines say - Fees benefit passengers because they allow airlines to keep ticket prices down and consumers pay only for services they use. "This is a deregulated industry and this is an industry that should be able to charge whatever it opts to charge for services," said David Castelveter, a spokesman for the Air Transport Association, which represents major airlines.
The Transportation Department is considering requiring airlines to disclose two ticket prices to passengers: a "full fare" with all mandatory charges like taxes, and "full fare-plus" with the extras.
Here's the runway rundown on fees, according to Kayak and WRW observations: American, Continental, Delta, US Airways and United all charge $25 for the first checked bag, and $35 for the second. Note: Virgin does as well, unless you upgrade to extra legroom and then your first bag is free. JetBlue charges $10 and up for additional legroom. Southwest still doesn't charge for bags but you can pay for early boarding. AirTran charges $6 for passengers to get seat assignments in advance, and sells exit row seats for $20 extra.
Alliance of JetBlue and American Airlines
In
difficult times there can be strength in numbers. For JetBlue and
American it looked like a good time to partner up. This one may
actually benefit the customers. Soon you can book American Airlines
flights on JetBlue.com and
JetBlue flights on AA.com.
Also passengers will be able to connect between 14 of American's
international destinations departing from JFK and Logan plus18
of JetBlue's domestic markets.
For example, if you would want to go New Orleans-New York-Rome you can do so with this new interline service. You won't be able to do it from the airline websites right away but it will be available through most major online travel agency websites in North America as well as American Airlines ticket counters and phone service, and through traditional travel agencies. Members of AAdvantage and TrueBlue would be able to earn miles or points in the respective programs when they fly on the carriers' interline routes.
Bright Spots
Travel
can certainly be grim these days but there are a few bright spots.
Thanks to Southwest Airlines for their musical flight attendants who sing to their passengers in everything from country to rap. Go to YouTube and type in "singing flight attendant southwest."
And thanks to the folks at the Las Vegas airport for engaging comedians such as Penn & Teller and Rita Rudner to give their video spin on how to get through airport security. Makes you laugh while reminding you of all those things you need to know.
And here's to Virgin America for their animated in-flight information that tells the "point oh, oh, oh percent of you" how to fasten a seat belt. There even an animated Richard Branson who obviously knows not to take himself too seriously.
Like a Virgin...In Toronto and Cancun and Cabo.
These
are 3 of the 5 new destinations for Virgin America (based in San
Francisco) coming up this year. They are still negotiating with
Chicago on gate space and hoping to appear at O'Hare in 2011. Quoted
in the San Francisco Chronicle, Virgin America CEO David Cush said
the new airline is doing well with "a pretty even mix of business
and leisure travelers...the trend we have seen is a lot more business
travelers converting to us given our "office in the sky" features
like Wi-Fi, power outlets, in-flight TV with live CNN, CNBC, and
our premium cabins [First and Main Cabin Select services]. Read
more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/cmcginnis/detail?entry_id=67023#ixzz0sTmUTWCf
Clear Again
Clear, the company that registered travelers for a fee to allow
them to zoom through dedicated security lines at the airport
ran into money troubles last year. Now a new company, Alclear
LLC, has bought the assets and is restarting the program. Expect
to see Clear at the Denver Airport in the fall.
www.flyclear.com
Global Communicating: When in Roam
Lisa Strong Technology Reporter
Traveling
overseas presents challenges to maintaining communications with
clients and home base. Here are some things to consider.
First, if you plan on taking your US phone out of the country, be sure to upgrade your service to include international calling (data) - to/from that country at least. Second, let your friends know you are going to be out of the country. Incoming calls can add up fast and email (incoming and outgoing) can be absurdly expensive. We've heard of people getting bills for thousands of dollars.
Most suppliers offer quite a menu of international services. Some are country specific, some are phone specific, while other packages are related to voice or data needs.
If you'll be in a city, and mostly need to communicate with locals, it may be more affordable to rent or buy a phone when you arrive. Or, if you own an unlocked GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) multi-band phone (dual, tri, or quad), you can buy a prepaid SIM [Subscriber Identification Module] card to pop into your phone and be on a local network with a local phone number.
Other choices rely on Internet connectivity. Skype is popular and works with both Macs and PCs. You must sign up, but it's free for computer to computer calling and if your computer has a built in camera you get video calling as well. You can use Skype to call a regular phone - landline or cell from your computer for a small per minute charge (e.g. Egypt from California was 10 cents/minute), though you have to purchase Skype minutes ahead of time for this.
If you are going to a really really remote area (say a meeting on Mt. Everest) you can rent a satellite phone (sat phone). BGAN and Iridium are two name brands. They generally aren't cheap, and data rates are pretty steep. But calling home priceless.
Lessons Learned at the Point of a Gun
Safety
First: Tips for Women Travelers
By WILLA
PLANK
Safety
is a concern for anyone who is frequently on the road. And female
business travelers, in particular, have unique needs, leading some
hotels to create women-only floors.
The Wall Street Journal recently spoke with Kathleen Ameche, author of "The Woman Road Warrior: An Expert's Guide to Domestic and International Business Travel," about staying safe and comfortable when traveling.
WSJ: Is there really a difference in safety concerns between men and women?
Ms. Ameche: That's an ongoing debate. ... There are differences between men and women. And every other sector has gotten and understands that. You have different clothing, luggage. ... If you play into those differences a little bit more, you'd possibly get more healthy travelers.
We're not fragile individuals that can't go out and do anything a male can do, because I think we can. We think differently, we act differently, we dress differently and at times we are smaller, more petite and we need to be more concerned our safety.
WSJ: Do you have any specific examples of concerns from your own experiences?
Ms. Ameche: What really prompted things for me was I had a gun pulled on me after about three years on the road at six in the morning on the way to O'Hare International Airport. And I was in the cab by myself, it was before cellphones and the cab driver knew my name, address and phone number because I had set up the cab the night before, which is the typical process that road warriors do.
We're on our way out, it was still dark, and my luggage was in the trunk and all of a sudden I see a flash of silver. I obviously woke up pretty quickly, and turned around and there was a gun pointed to my head. ... I remember going through the process: Is it going to be safer to get out of a moving cab at 60 miles per hour in the dark on a major expressway in a big city, or am I going to be safer to try to get to the airport? I ended up getting to the airport and finally told the police and the individual was arrested.
Now what I teach people to do is that whenever you get into a cab, put your luggage in the back seat with you and text somebody the taxi number, where you are going and what time you left. And that way somebody will know if something happens to you, where to start looking.
WSJ: How did you manage to get out of that situation?
Ms. Ameche: I started to talk about everything else except the gun in his hands. He was ranting and raving about something the night before. He was obviously unstable. I got lucky, where I could calm him down enough.
WSJ: What are some other safety concerns?
Ms. Ameche: I always talk to [business travelers] about doing a room search as soon as they walk into a hotel room. When you go into a hotel room, it's a five point search. It's the closet, the bathroom, under the bed, make sure the landline telephone works. If there should be a situation where you need to get to outside authorities, they will ask where you are and if you're calling from your cellphone, nine out of 10 times you will not remember the address where you're calling from. Make sure the locks are working as well.
I've had my jewelry stolen out of my hotel room before. Never stay on the first floor of a hotel.
Another tip for women, based on a true story. When you're sitting at a hotel bar and signing the room tab, always remember to hand it back to the server. Don't leave it on your table and walk away. A colleague of mine... was having dinner one night and a gentleman came up to her and said, "Can I buy you a drink?" She says, "No, thank you." And he left without incident. So she finished her meal, the tab came, signed it to her room and left it on the table, and went back to her room. Ten minutes later, the guy is beating on her door trying to get in because she had left the charge on the table.
WSJ: Should you leave valuables in your hotel room safe?
Ms. Ameche: I would always recommend don't take anything that you'd be really upset about losing. If you really want to take something and you want the maximum protection, the hotel behind the desk has a safe. If something should happen and the goods are in a hotel-room safe, and not behind the desk safe, the hotel does not take responsibility for the loss.
WSJ:In terms of preplanning a trip, do you have any other tips?
Ms. Ameche: Take one or two credit cards when you're outside of the country, and that's it. Don't bring your whole wallet. Also alert your companies that you're going out of the country. I can't tell you how many times people go out of the country and don't tell their card companies, and everything is denied.
WSJ:What do you do with your passport?
Ms. Ameche: If I'm abroad, I keep it with me. ... If you keep copies at home, make sure it's with someone that can get it to you ... if you should lose it because you'll need to go to the consulate, and you'll get a replacement passport quicker if you have a copy.
Write to Willa Plank at willa.plank@dowjones.com
Exit Row Rules
No
books, no shoes, no service?
On a recent Southwest flight our Airport Reporter was sitting in the exit row. She had just gotten comfortable with Kindle in hand and slipped one foot out of her clogs to cross legs and enjoy the extra foot or so of legroom, when the flight attendant prepping for take-off told her that she had to put her shoes on since she was in the exit row. Never having heard of this rule, we decided to investigate.
Most frequent flyers know that the essence of being an exit row traveler is that you must be able to assist in opening the emergency exit door and subsequent evacuation if necessary. For this reason children under 12 (sometimes up to 15 years) are barred form the emergency exit row as are unaccompanied minors, infants and passengers with any physical or mental limitations. Also ineligible are passengers traveling with a pet or service animal, people who have requested special assistance or those who do not speak the language of the cabin crew. All this sounds quite logical, but what about shoes?
One clue came from a similar story in which a person was told to put their book in the overhead bin during take-off. The rationale seems to be that the book could be a projectile or you could slip on it while performing an evacuation. This seems quite logical for a bulkhead exit row without a seat in front to provide a pocket or block a flying object, but it seems that books and shoes could fly up from any seat on the plane. Maybe it's that clogs are particularly heavy.
I'm not with them
Another restriction for would-be exit row occupiers - you are not eligible if you are flying on the same plane with relatives who are under 15 or who is elderly. A friend was recently booted out of her extra legroom seat because she had a grandchild on the plane (traveling with his parents).
Here's why - when the exit row rules went into effect at the end of 1990, the Federal Aviation Administration cited studies of crashes in which some passengers died during plane evacuation. ''The reports show rather dramatically that certain factors generally impede rapid evacuation - advanced age or extreme youth, parental responsibilities for minors, physical disabilities, obesity, injury or ill health.'' So if you are traveling with family, be advised.
In addition to the FAA requirements, each airline seems to have it's own policies governing emergency exit rows that have evolved over the last twenty years. We'll be working on collecting more details. Meanwhile, share with us your exit row stories, email: kameche@womanroadwarrior.com
ScanDallas, ScanFrancisco: A short course on whole-body scanners.
There
has been much publicity about the use of scanning machines in the
wake of the latest "Underwear Bomber" (how about that nickname
for the rest of your life?).
Just the facts, ma'am. These have been in testing since 2007 in some places. They are currently used for primary screening in 6 airports and secondary screening in another 13 (including Dallas and San Francisco). Such screening is optional though so far less than 3% of people opt out.
Is it safe? If you believe the reports, the radiation put out by the Millimeter Wave technology is described as being less than that of a cell phone.
Does it work? The technology picks up metallic and non-metallic items, like a credit card or even a plastic button.
Would it have spotted the hidden pouch on the UB? Maybe, maybe not. A British defense-research firm found the machines unreliable in detecting "low-density" materials like chemicals, and liquidspretty much what the UB was carrying.
What about privacy? Images are viewed in a private area and are not recorded. One concern that was voiced was that some enterprising TSA employee might try to sell scans of celebrities traveling through LAX. (Does not apply to most of us and remember the scans are optional).
Benefits: Improved screening, less invasive than a pat down and potentially faster. If it keeps me, my family, friends, colleagues and travelers safe I'm in.
The Flight Before Christmas
Twas the flight before Christmas and all through the hub
Woman Road Warriors with laptops had gone to the club
The shoes and the purses were stacked in the bins
Experienced flyers stripped down to their skins
The passengers were crowded all snug in their seats
With visions of coffee maybe Starbucks or Peet's
And my seatmate with ear buds and I in my wrap
Had just settled our brains for an all-flight long nap
Then lights dimmed and power fell, all came to a stop
The hubbub was ceased, you could hear a pin drop
The luggage was heaped and sat dead on the belt
Long faces, short tempers, you could see how they felt
Emergency lighting reflected the glare
Of ice on the wings of planes going nowhere
The crowds were on edge, gate attendants on guard
This was not their idea of a quaint Christmas card
We'll be trapped at this airport and miss our connection
No Christmas surprises, no Kwanzaa confections
When out on the runway there arose such a clatter,
I leaned to the window to see what now was the matter?
And what to my wondering eyes should appear but a
turbo-charged sleigh and eight tiny reindeer
The driver was short with a little round belly,
He was just like the Santa you see on the telly
He stroked his beard twice and his eyes caught the light
I knew in my heart things would soon be all right.
Santa sussed out the problem and said not a word
That was when the miracle began to occur
The reindeer who recently had been to-ers and fro-ers
Turned into magical super snow-blowers
On Dasher, on Stanley, on Dancer and Dixon
Then Donder and Blitzen decided to mix in
Connie and Cupid all made the snow fly
By the time it was settled the runway was dry.
The force of their effort created such heat
That the ice from the wings melted off at their feet.
Snow and ice was dispatched with a speed that was frightening
And the power was restored in a flash much like lightning.
The TSA staffers had burst into song
and security lines were now whizzing along!
The air was alive with holiday cheer
On account of a man with some first class reindeer
Ah Santa, I thought, I knew you could do it
Once again you've provided the true Christmas spirit
And I heard him exclaim as he flew out of sight
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good flight.
May the Holiday Spirit Give You Wings and
Compassion for Your Fellow Travelers
Special thanks to our Director of Marketing, author Deborah Harter-Williams
Holiday High Spirits - Airports as Cocktails
As
our thoughts turn to holiday celebrations and libations and our
minds anticipate the chore of holiday travel, visions of cocktails
appropriate to certain airports dance in our heads.
For example, San Francisco (SFO) - An organic Pomegranate martini made with sake
Denver (DIA) is a thin-air highball on the rocks.
Los Angeles (LAX) - a smoke martini with cocktail onions.
Chicago (ORD) - Green beer. In a frosty schooner.
Detroit (DTW) is a Sidecar,
And JFK obviously is a Manhattan...
Happy Landings!
Feel free to make up your own and send them to us.
Reading on the Road - A Few Words in Praise of Airport Bookstores
Based
on our Woman Road Warrior survey, for many travelers reading is
an integral part of the travel experience. Like our rules for eating
on the road, rules for reading on the road vary. Some buy magazines
they would never read at home going either lowbrow "People" or
highbrow "The Economist." Some allow pulp reading (romance,
trashy) as an indulgence that might make one feel guilty at home.
Others troll the airport bookstores and newsstands in hopes of finding compatible reading. For those here are a few hints. The Detroit Airport (aka DTW was recently shown to good effect in the movie "Up in the Air") has an almost full-sized Borders in the Northwest Terminal. It is a particularly nice one with great service. This could be because Borders headquarters is in Ann Arbor not too many miles away.
DTW also has a Paradies bookstore aka DTW Press Express, which is part of a chain that offers a discount if you return the book you bought to the same or related store within six months. Paradies can also be found under the brands NY Times (LGA), Aunties (SeaTac) and Heritage Books. Another great bookstore at an airport is Book People at Bergstrom airport (AUS), a long time independent bookseller that also has a great downtown location. SFO has its Compass Books (part of Books Inc.), which has foreign newspapers, a huge selection of magazines and trade paperbacks with recommendations by staff.
Pet peeve, those tiny little places that sell books by advertising "best sellers", or "best known authors" this is not the "best" way to pick a book. Go for an intriguing cover, a title that speaks to you, a location or a character not some group favorite. Books have a great Return on Indulgence and can make a delay seem like bonus.
Global Warning
Once
again this year, snow globes will not be allowed through TSA security
Other holiday TSA does and don'ts: Pies and Cakes yes, Gravy
and Cranberry Sauce No
Skirts Attract Scrutiny?
One of our Airport Reporters noticed that she was frequently being
taken out of the security line for a pat down. Finally she mentioned
it so someone and they asked "were you wearing a skirt?" The
idea is that people in skirts have more room to conceal something
than someone in form-revealing pants, so dress accordingly.
Holiday Gift Guidance It's in the Bag
New MicciMicci bag flavors for the holidays Watermelon, Forget-Me-Not
and Pink Polka-Dot the perfect gift for women travelers of all
ages...and free shipping up 'til 11:59pm CST on December 15th.
Free Holiday WiFi and Frequent Flyer Miles Protection
Free Wifi
Google is working with airports across the country as well as Boingo
Wireless, Advanced Wireless Group, Airport Marketing Income and
others to provide free Wi-Fi as a holiday gift now through January
15, 2010. The gift currently includes 47 airports, including
Las Vegas, San Jose, Boston, Baltimore, Burbank, Houston, Indianapolis,
Seattle, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando, St. Louis and Charlotte.
Additionally, Burbank and Seattle airports will begin offering
airport-wide free Wi-Fi indefinitely. See www.freeholidaywifi.com for
a complete list.
Save My Miles
Sen. Charles Schumer wants to guard your miles. Schumer has called
for a federal review of complaints by consumers that they are
losing millions of frequent flier miles. "As the holiday travel
season approaches, we cannot let airlines and credit card companies
continue to fly off with hard-earned frequent flier miles," Schumer
said. "When a consumer accumulates valuable frequent flier miles,
they should not have to constantly worry that they are going
to expire with little or no notification from the airline."
What's Up with Airlines?
Fuel costs are up, passenger traffic is down, so if you are an airline executive, what do you do? Here are a few telling news tidbits about airlines activities.
American Airlines is polishing up its' image by co-starring in George Clooney's new film "Up in the Air," about a man pushing to reach the ultimate frequent flyer achievement. Product placement teamed with a sweepstakes and ad campaign should gain a few eyeballs. Needless to say the Admirals Club will be looking good for its' close-up.
United is trying to look good in another way, having hired designer Cynthia Rowley to give a fresh look to uniforms for flight attendants, pilots, customer service representatives, ramp service and maintenance employees. Maybe new outfits will cheer them up and they make them less cranky. The new look is scheduled for 2011. She is probably the right woman for the job. After all she was a judge on "Project Runway".
Virgin Atlantic is definitely the social networking airline. Two of its' latest are PitchTV an opportunity to upload your 2 minute pitch video for your company or product and a taxi sharing service. www.taxi.to is being beta tested in London and New York and is not limited to Virgin customers. And yes you can choose to ride with another woman if you don't want to take your chances with any Tom, Dick or Harry.
Southwest continues to offer free baggage check in the face of every other airline choosing to charge. They claim it actually gets them customers.
Ads that Get our Attention
Even if you are not in the market for a Rolex you can appreciate their ad campaign that features a woman in flying cap and goggles, scarf flying in the wind, in front of a small plane. It conjures up images of Beryl Markham and Amelia Earhart, though they flew in the 30s not the 1947 referenced in the ad. And I'm sure it's no accident that the movie "Amelia" is currently in theatres. Quibbles aside there's something inspiring about it.
Also in the inspirational/aspirational category, an ad that speaks to the cosmic traveler, is Louis Vuitton's Journey campaign. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the moon landing LV had Annie Leibovitz go out to the high desert and photograph Sally Ride, Jim Lovell and Buzz Aldrin. The three astronauts and a Louis Vuitton Icare bag (named after Icarus) watch the moon from an old pick-up truck. The tagline "Some journeys change mankind forever." Last year's ad with Sean Connery in rolled up pants waiting on a dock was also a winner.
Lastly, an ad that's both more down to earth and more up in the air. Southwest Airlines "Go Back In" ad shows a woman business traveler walking out of the airport, roller bag in tow and talking on a cell phone. She gets almost to the sidewalk when she does a take, says "I'll be there" then turns around and heads back into the airport and gets on another plane. She is clearly one of us.
Do you have a travel-related ad that inspires or offends you. Let us know by email or by posting on the community forum.
Survey Report - What's in a Bag?
When we travel we are of necessity bag ladies. The choice of bag is carefully thought out and the criteria are personal, practical and situational.
Rolling is good - rolling briefcases, rolling backpacks and the ubiquitous roller bags that fit in overhead compartments. Those little wheels have freed us up and have virtually become the icon of the business traveler.
Duffles are dandy. Many women opt for the versatility of a duffle. We vacillate between the small and stow able and the big but totable. Generally we need our purses to be big and our luggage to be small though we know one road warrior who had a duffle so big she could transport folding chairs in it.
To satisfy "the other carry-on" bag requirement we are endlessly inventive - a diaper bag becomes a laptop bag, a backpack converts to a handbag, a large tote conceals a purse in case an airline becomes persnickety about bag count.
Which is better? Over the-shoulder for easy access or the hands-free luxury of a backpack? Can one ever have too many pockets? Outside pockets, side pockets and inside pockets. Now if one could only remember which pocket the boarding pass is in.
We have affection for old bags, worn leather is particularly comforting, as well as those of surprising color shocking pink, mustard yellow, even polka dots. From LeSportSac to Michael Kors, from Prada to Target the quest for the ultimate bag knows no bounds.
Survey Report - Perks
In our Woman Road Warrior Day Survey we plumbed the psyche of our women business travelers to find out what special benefits of travel made us perk up. The answer, as you may have guessed is Perks. Fringe benefits, perquisites or perks call them what you will, they are the frosting on the cake of travel.
First and foremost we are all about the upgrades. Oh, how we long for that upgrade to first class to make us a princess, if only for one flight. Some only dream of it, while others have found a way to make it a common occurrence. Continental seems to have a way with free upgrades particularly if you are a Platinum level flyer.
Airport lounges are a close second on the favorites list. An Airline Club membership or an American Express Platinum card with club privileges - priceless
Basically, the getting is good. First of all getting away is it's own reward. Getting away from stress, getting to go new places, getting points, getting to the airport early and getting to eat at different restaurants. We like what we get.
Yes, loyalty programs work. We are pleased with Crown Room Privileges, the Concierge floor and Chairman's Preferred status at Avis. Free Wi-Fi at the airport and hotel is noted and valued. It's not just about the money but the hassle of signing up each time.
And the greatest perk of all Time. "Time to be by myself and think." "Two hours on the plane where no one can reach me." "As a working mom, my biggest travel benefit is a little peace and quiet."
Nourishments and Libations
Given
the nature of today's travel you can't go very long without having
to figure out where your next meal is coming from. Our Woman Road
Warrior Day Survey gave us insights into what food women on the
road look for.
Number 1 answer: Starbucks, Starbucks, Starbucks whether it's coffee, a latte, a hot cocoa, a bagel or a vegetarian snack. Starbucks is a perennial favorite that you can count on. Dunkin Donuts also scores high in areas where available.
Places to sit down and have a drink (wine and margaritas please) are sought after. According to Woman Road Warriors, there's a wine and cheese place in Philly, a wine bar at DFW and live music in the bar at the Austin airport.
We like local cuisine: Legal Seafood at Logan, Chicago Dog at O'Hare, Tex-Mex in Dallas and Maui Tacos. The Paradise Bakery in the Phoenix Airport is worth checking out and that there's a good Greek restaurant in the Detroit airport.
Some of the chains like Wolfgang Puck's, Houlihan's and Auntie Anne's were mentioned as well. "Applebee's in the airport for an appetizer," and The Great American Bagel Company were singled out for recognition.
Many of us struggle with how to find healthy food on the road and we carry Luna Bars, bananas and nuts. More fresh fruit, light meals, and vegetarian options would be welcome. Subway gets points because you can always get a vegetarian sandwich; Au Bon Pain and Nature's Table both provide healthy and varied menus.
On the other hand, more than a few confessed to stopping off at McDonalds.
Oh, the places we go and the things we take with us.
Our
survey of Women Road Warriors asked "What 5 things won't you travel
without?" The answers revealed the obvious technology must-haves:
a cell phone, Blackberry or IPhone, iPod, laptop, chargers and
cords...plus some interesting travel gear, garb and variations
on the theme.
Standard Travel Garb: Black pants that go with everything and/or Black jacket that goes with everything. Clean underwear and cozy socks.
Protective Travel Gear: Eye mask to block out the sun on the plane. Sleep mask that says "Leave me alone." Earplugs to block out screaming children on the plane.
Make-up and Meds: "My own" moisturizer, night cr่me, etc. We are loyal to our brands. Lipgloss and balm. Advil, allergy pills, and antibacterial gels...Pepto Bismal, ibuprofen, and Tylenol.
Keeping it clean: Febreze, Lysol, baby wipes and hand sanitizer
For comfort: Cashmere wrap, fleece blanket, fleece jacket, Pashmina and Neck pillow. Also candles and CDs.
Emergency Supplies: Coffee, chocolate, nuts and granola bars...Sun block and band-aids.
For entertaining the mind and spirit: Magazines, e-Readers, Kindles and the Bible... Handheld Sudoku games...plus books, books and more books.
And... for whatever adventure may come: Swiss Army knife, bungee cord and flashlight.
Women Road Warriors are prepared.
Women Road Warriors Vote with Their Feet...and the Survey Says!
Keene's, Keds, Clogs and Crocs -Flip flops, Flats and Running Shoes
Our recent survey (thanks for participating) got us a wide range of responses demonstrating that Women Road Warriors come in all varieties. But here's a brief summary. From high-heel gals to flip flop chicks, women road warriors need shoes that enable them to move fast, be comfortable, be stylish and slip on and off easily through security. Here are a few quotes from our walking women road warriors about the shoes they pick to travel in -
"athletic shoes for working out & walking sandals that dress up and dress down, MicciMicci for the plane"..."flat and comfortable Merrils"... "slides, definitely. Need to be able to kick them off in the plane, not be too hot anywhere. I recommend the Cole Hahn version with Nike sole--I just walked through Italy on these."..."A good pair of slip-on penny loafers gets me through security checks quickly, but still looking polished and professional."..."A great pair of flip flops, with a back up pair of sexy heels to impress."
...more to follow
Ameche Group,
LLC |