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As the airlines continue to find new ways to create revenue, it is equally important that people realize the truth about airline loyalty programs.

In 2014, Delta led a charge that revolutionized the way you were awarded miles. The new calculation is based on the ticket price rather than the miles flown, a move that privileges first and business class travelers opposed to those in economy.  The shift towards revenue-based loyalty programs have now become the norm and earning miles are now trickier than ever. Are loyalty programs over? No, but you do need to consider a different approach.

It is true that flying is no longer the best way to earn miles, but how can you take advantage of these programs?

Your Home Airline

When you decide which frequent flyer program to choose, consider which airline services your closest airport. Earning miles through air travel will be the easiest way to build especially if you choose an airline within an alliance like oneworld (American| Asiana) or SkyTeam (Delta| Korean). For example, if you live near the Northern Virginia area, Washington Dulles Airport would be your closest airport. It is almost certain that most of your flights over time would travel on United. Why? Because Dulles is United’s hub or one of its main connecting gateways and many flights will pass through here.

By considering the number of times you would travel, from a statistical view, the logical choice for our example would be to choose a program with United or one of its partners in the Star Alliance such as All Nippon, Air China or Air Canada.
Credit Card Programs

If you are a frequent spender, then it would be smart to earn while you spend by applying for an airline sponsored credit card.  Having the right credit card is essential to travel – and it is not only to earn miles. Even if you can’t earn your way to a free ticket, you can at least get some of the free amenities benefited by credit card holders. All domestic carriers offer free checked bags, priority boarding, and in some cases, complimentary lounge access. Paying annual fees can be quite expensive, however for $100 a year, some of the lower priced programs pay themselves off after a few trips.

Consider the point value system in which you can earn points for every dollar spent, this way you can spend your way to free ticket. Check out which credit card programs offer the most points earned for qualified expenses such as gas, groceries and other purchases. One of my favorite credit cards for travel is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card which offer double points for travel purchases and offers a 50,000 bonus points with qualified purchases ($625 value).
Just Buy your Miles

The newest and arguably the best way to take advantage of airline loyalty programs is to buy miles. Periodically throughout the year, airlines will dump miles at a discounted rate. In some cases, you can even use credit card rewards to buy miles, which is even better. Although this seems great, buying miles is not for everyone.

Buying miles is most advantageous when redeeming for premium seats like first or business class. You would need to calculate how many points you need in comparison to the true value of the ticket before you buy.

The downside for loyal airline passengers is that the world will be filled with discounted miles in which the airlines continue to devalue your miles earned. You do not earn as many miles like before while the price for redemption continues to rise. This trend will make using miles even more difficult in the future.

Frequent flyer programs are not what they were before. No longer are the days you can earn miles while sitting on a plane and count your way to a free ticket. But loyalty programs are not dead, you just need to plan ahead.

When it comes to travel many people say that there is a magical day when airfare drops and becomes even more affordable. The thought sounds amazing. A magical day in the year when airfare drops and you can get the best fares. This is a popular belief among travelers especially for trans-pacific flights. Every year, passengers ask me, “When doe the fares drop?”.

But there is more than just a magical date.

Typically, from mid-August to the End of November, airlines often release lower fares compared to those in the summer months, however there is no set magic date. On the contrary, the shift in seasons is due in large part because many students are back in school and there is less demand.

While many people believe that cheap fares can just “pop up”, the truth is, prices are based on the number of seats available at the time you purchase your tickets. The higher in demand, the higher the price, however as passengers’ book, cancel and reissue their itineraries, these seats go in and out of the inventory. Once a seat is returned into inventory, it is first-come, first served, hence why it seems like “magic”.

In addition to availability, the day of the week you depart and return matters as well. Mid-week flights are often 15 to 30 percent lower than weekend flights depending on their routes. In fact, smart travelers will often purchase their tickets 4-6 months in advance for international travel. The so called “day” should reference the date of departure opposed to the date of purchase.

During the peak seasons (June-August & mid-December to mid-January) you should plan to purchase your tickets early especially if you have dates in mind. If you are looking for a deal on airfare, contact a travel agent to help you plan and explain the average airfare during your dates – so you can quickly recognize deals when they come.

For the best fares, possible – set your dates right after the holidays for instance the time between Thanksgiving and mid-December. During these times, you will see a significant dip in prices since demand is low.

Another recent trend to find cheaper fares are taking advantages of the stopover programs during your connecting city for instance in Dubai, Beijing or Doha. If passengers can delay their arrival for 1-2 days, they will be able to save money and explore another destination.

There is no exact formula or specific date that airlines pinpoint to release discounted fares. Pricing is calculated by market trends and demand which occurs seasonally. As you plan for your next flight, start your searches early to find a price that you are comfortable paying. Don’t wait too long to buy appear as fast as they can disappear.

If you are visiting the Pacific Northwest of the United States, or commonly referred to as “PNW”, then a visit to Vancouver, British Columbia is a must. For the simple fact that Vancouver is only less than a 3-hour drive from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, a country full of beautiful sights, fresh seafood, and Hollywood movie sets awaits any traveler.

Here are 5 reasons why you should plan on visiting Vancouver:

Nature

Upon arrival, take a deep breath and enjoy the clean, crisp, fresh air that Vancouver must offer due to the vast amount of forestry and fresh water. No matter where you look, you will have mountains or a body of water in sight, sometimes even both!

If you are not in the mood or do not have time to hike your way around Vancouver, there are tons of places with wide-open views of Vancouver’s finest wilderness. Simply driving along, the coastline or from your hotel to your next destination, you will want to pull over left and right for a photo op. The observable mountain range from Vancouver is the North Shore Mountains, which consist of several mountains. Grouse, Cypress, and Seymour mountains are the most visible from Vancouver and offer year-round activities from skiing to zip lining.

Looking to explore by foot? No matter your pace or skill level, there is a trail for you to truly indulge in and experience Vancouver’s wildlife. If you are up for a challenging hike with rewarding sights, Garibaldi Lake is located less than 2 hours north of Vancouver. The trail takes you through dense fir trees and a vivid display of flowers ending with some of the most amazing turquoise blue lake waters that Vancouver is known for. Keep in mind, this hike takes at least 5 hours to complete and requires hiking uphill with the chance of rain, snow, or ice, depending on the time of year.

There are also plenty of trails suitable for all ages and experiences. Another place to visit if you are looking for a casual trail with beautiful sights is Lynn Canyon Park, located less than a 30-minute drive northeast of the city. They have several trails and photo ops around every corner. You will still be able to see the vibrant array of colors and enjoy the outdoors while getting your daily steps in.

Food

You will notice in Vancouver that there are all sorts of foreign influenced cuisine options so you can try something different every meal. From Japanese to Mexican, Italian to the local Canadian-born dishes, there will certainly be a place to satisfy your taste buds. Also, let’s not forget about the super fresh seafood that comes straight from the Pacific Northwest.

A popular side dish in Vancouver

So where do you start? If you’re not from Canada or have never tried, I would highly recommend ordering poutine, which is a plate of fries covered in gravy and cheese curds. You can find this dish in many places, some even having their own variation of the famous dish such as adding proteins and truffle. As good as it is, make sure you save room to experience the other dishes found in Vancouver.

Another must in Vancouver, even for the locals, is sushi. Having some of the freshest seafood and constant inspiration from Asian cuisine, whether you prefer the raw taste of sashimi or fancy overly packed rolls, you won’t have a problem fulfilling your sushi craving in Vancouver.

Sightseeing/Attractions

When you’ve had enough of the sea level experience in Vancouver, you are ready to take one of the many mountainside gondolas for even greater sights. Lated less than an hour drive north, Sea to Sky Gondola take you straight up the mountain and offers spectacular sights of all the mountains around. Once you reach the top after about a 10-minute gondola ride, you will have the opportunity to cross one of Vancouver’s popular suspension bridges built right on the mountain. There are also several viewing platforms for that perfect photo and hiking trails at the top. The admission price is around $35.00 USD per adult, but your admission allows you unlimited time on top of the mountain to take in the views, hike a trail or two, and grab a bite to eat at the summit’s restaurant.

Breath-taking views year-round

If seeing Vancouver from a top down view isn’t for you, but you still want to experience the nerve racking thrill of crossing a suspension bridge, there are plenty of options. Besides the suspension bridge on top of the Sea to Sky Gondola ride, there is the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which has a fee, and the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, which is free of cost. Both bridges are located inside national parks, which also offer hiking and walking trails to indulge yourself in Vancouver’s wildlife.

Another popular place to visit is Stanley Park, which is located northwest of the city and almost surrounded by water. Here, you will find many attractions such as the Vancouver Aquarium, several walking and hiking trails, a water park, and even a beach. The most common trail is the Seawall, which borders Stanley Park and provides 14 miles of paths suitable for walking, running, or biking. There are also trails that pass-through Stanley Park’s forests, which can be significantly less crowded.

Movie sets

One of the little-known facts about Vancouver is that several parts of the beautiful country are used for filming mainstream movies and TV shows. Referred to as “Hollywood North” since Vancouver is directly north of Hollywood, California, and is an ideal set location offering a variety of scenery, Vancouver contains some of the largest production studios and stages in North America.

There are several places known for filming in Vancouver such as the Hotel Europe in the city of Gastown, the Riverview Hospital, and the Brittania Mine Museum. Some of the most known movie productions include: Godzilla, Fifty Shades of Grey, Deadpool, and some of the Twilight saga installments.

You might find yourself on a Hollywood movie set or even better, run into your favorite movie star grabbing a bite to eat downtown! Rumor has it, celebrities are consistently spotted all over town.

People

One of the most recognizable and appreciated things about Vancouver is the people, also commonly referred to as “Vancouverites”. English, being the primary language spoken also makes it easy to communicate and get around. Vancouverites are all extremely friendly and polite, welcoming people from all over the world to their beautiful land. From the customer service at your local restaurant to asking a stranger on the road for directions, everyone always seems willing to help and keep a smile on your face. Never once did I feel unsafe or unwelcomed during my visit there and I hope you are able to experience this sort of Canadian hospitality as well!

To sum things up, whether you are a foodie looking for the next unique meal, an adventurist looking for a challenging hike through the woods, or an amateur photo journalist trying to capture the perfect landscape shot of the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver is the place for you. I recommend doing adequate research when planning your trip to ensure you pack the right clothes (and gear) for the weather, and that you figure out what you would like to accomplish and see during your trip. I hope this provided some unknown insight and that you enjoy your time in Vancouver as much as I did!

After making up your mind that you want to visit the Philippines, you will need to decide how long you intend to stay. As mentioned in the previous article, a US citizen does not need to obtain a visa if they plan on staying for less than 30 days. If you plan to stay for more than 30 days, you can apply for a temporary visitor’s visa. Visas are issued in 3,6 and 12 month durations.

In order to apply for a temporary visitor’s visa, you will need to make sure you have the required items before submitting your application. First and foremost, you need to double check that your passport expiration date is at least 6 months valid from the return date. For example, if you are planning to travel to the Philippines from March 1^st to April 30^th (which is a 2 month stay), your passport expiration date should be no sooner than October 31^st.

Once you’ve figured out your travel dates and have your itinerary, make sure to keep a copy to submit with your application. You can download and complete the ‘Non-Immigrant Visa’ application form from the Philippines Embassy website. This form must be filled out, written or typed in either black or blue ink. Please note that the form must be notarized if you are submitting your application by mail.

Along with the application, you will also need to provide a 2”x 2” photo taken within 6 months. Similar to a passport photo, the photo needs to be a clear front view of the person applying with a white background. The photo also can’t be taken with sleeveless attire, blurry or low quality. You can usually have this done at your local pharmacy or grocery store.

Depending on your purpose, business or leisure, you will need to submit one of the following; either a proof of financial capacity or a letter from your employer or sponsor of the trip. If you are going for leisure, you will need to provide financial support for your trip to the Philippines which can be a bank statement or an affidavit of support. If you are going for business, you will need to provide a letter from your employer stating the specific purpose and length of the trip. Please note that if the application is for a minor (under 18), an affidavit of support and bank statement from either parent is required as well.

When you have all the required items, you are ready to submit your application along with the required items to the Philippine Embassy either by mail or by visiting the Consular Services. If you are sending by mail, you will need to include your passport, application, 2 x 2 photo, financial support or letter from employer, self-addressed and pre-paid return envelope, and visa fee.

At the time of this article, the cost of visas are as follows: $30.00 for a single entry visa valid for 3 months, $60.00 for a multiple entry visa valid for 6 months, and $90.00 for a multiple entry visa valid for 12 months. The fee must be paid in cash or money order made payable to “Embassy of Philippines”. Please note that personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

If you decide to go to the embassy in person, the physical address in the D.C. area is 1600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 of in New York – 556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036 (between 45th and 46th streets). Once your documents have been received and verified, make sure to keep your receipt. You will need to present your receipt if you plan to pick up your passport. Expected processing for visas is between 30-60 days.

For further information or assistance, including other consulate locations and assistance, please visit the Philippines Embassy’s website: http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/

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To say the least, Rome is one of the most iconic and most traveled cities in the world. About 14 million people travel to the Eternal City annually to enjoy the famous architecture, savor authentic Italian pasta and cuisine and of course shop for fine Italian made clothing and products. No matter what type of traveler you are, there is always something for you in Rome.

Romans are the friendliest people in Italy due in large to their relaxed but cosmopolitan lifestyle. Socializing and leisure time are highly regarded and you find many locals are captured by the magic of possibility, in which anything can happen in Rome.

Here are some tips for your next adventure in Rome.

Getting There

Nonstop train from Leonardo Airport to Termini Station

Since Rome is the most popular destination, there are tons of flights arriving and departing Leonardo Da Vinci Airport daily. If you are coming from the U.S., you will most likely arrive in the morning before lunch which allows you to enjoy more of your time in Rome. I would suggest taking an American Airlines flight which has nonstop flights from Philadelphia, Chicago, New York, Miami and Charlotte. I find having my connecting flights still in the US more comforting especially since customer service in Europe is not so hospitable.

Once you arrive in Rome, the immigration and custom processes are very quick and you are out of the airport within 30-45 minutes. Collect your bags and proceed towards the Leonardo Express (Trentitalia) which runs every 15-20 minutes non-stop to downtown Rome. The cost per person is 14 Euros ($15USD), for children 4-14 years old the cost is free. In a matter of 30 minutes you will arrive in Termini Station and can proceed to your accommodations to relax before you explore the city.

Where to stay

When choosing where to stay in Rome, the first question you need to ask is what you are willing to spend. Rome is filled with tons of hotels throughout the city to accommodate all the foreigners with different amenities and services. Location plays a major factor in pricing and the closer your hotel is to major landmarks, expect to pay top dollar.

For those looking for something with elegance and style, check out Grand Hotel de la Minerve, a 5 Star boutique mansion hotel which overlooks the Pantheon and is just minutes from Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. For mid-range hotels, Hotel Borromeo is a popular hotel within walking distance from Termini Station along the main Via Cavour. Most hotels offer free breakfast and internet, but please note breakfast in Italy is simple pastries and coffee, sorry no eggs and bacon here.

Getting Around

One of the first things you will notice is that Rome is a walking town and learning the public transportation is key. There are only two metro lines that connect the city which passes around the downtown area. Buses are more convenient with stops throughout the city center and are widely used by locals and tourists. To cut down cost, purchase a 24 or 48-hour pass which works for unlimited rides on the metro and buses.

TIP: Try walking to each landmark with short stops in between. One of my most memorable trips in Rome was a midnight tour which we strolled by the major landmarks like Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, and saw a different view of the city without of the packed tourists and cramp space.

Things to do

Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s Basilica – The highlight of your trip to Rome will always be the Vatican and you should make sure to properly plan your visit. Pre-purchase your tour tickets for entrances and an escorted tour guide into the Vatican Museum to avoid long lines and queues. Last time I went, the waiting for to enter without reservations was 2+ hours. TIP: When choosing your entry time, choose an afternoon slot when the lines are shorter and less people waiting. Morning tours are always packed from 9am until 1pm.

The Colosseum –Spend a few minutes just admiring this magnificent structure which was built more than 1,900 years ago and still stand today. Tours are available to enter the amphitheater every hour, but I would suggest opting in for the Underground Colosseum tour which brings you to the underground chambers which are off-limits to the normal public. You will also stroll up the Palatine Hill which offers great views of the Colosseum and a perfect photo op.

Trevi Fountain – The Fontana di Trevi – or Trevi Fountain in English -is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and the most beautiful in the world. A traditional legend holds that if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are ensured a return to Rome. Don’t forget to visit Bar Trevi across from the fountain which have some of the best gelato in Rome.

The Pantheon – Only a few steps away, is the historic Parthenon, the most preserved and influential building in Rome. Dedicated to the worship of every god (Pan-every Theon-divinity), the Pantheon was built by the Emperor Hadrian between 118 and 125 A.D. Live singers are always close because of the beautiful acoustics around the structure.

More Tips for Travelers

Food can cause serious damage to your daily budget if you don’t beware. Pass the touristy restaurants and cafes along the streets and opt for a simple panini or pizza to save money. If you do decide to eat in a restaurant, make sure to avoid the bread or bottled water which they charge up to 2-3 Euros. Tap water is clean and refreshing and you can even save your plastic bottles and refill them with water fountains throughout the city.

Get the Tourist Card

If you plan to visit a lot of the museums, check out the budget tourist card which allows you entrances to the attractions for one flat fee. The Roma Pass is one of my favorites which also includes transportation on buses and the metro plus additional discounts of tourist services and tickets.

Take a culinary class

Learn how to make pasta the Roman way! Food is an important part of Italian’s life and they spend a lot of their time eating and socializing. If you are a complete foodie like me, you will definitely enjoy a break from the sightseeing and tours. Expect to pay around 25-30 Euros per person depending on the length of the class.

Buy tons of wine

Wine cost as little as 3-4 Euros per bottle almost the same cost as bottled water. Go figure.

It comes to no surprise that the public is at an uproar with the recent United passenger who was removed from a flight due to overbooking. What are your rights as a passenger when it comes to an overbooked flight?

Why do Airlines Overbook flights?

Overbooking is a common practice for airlines designed to ensure every plane departs at full capacity. It may sound counterintuitive, the practice of selling more tickets on an airplane than there are seats benefits both airlines and passengers. Based on years of statistical data and algorithms to compensate for “no-shows”, airlines continue to overbook flights to maximize their profits. It may be a passenger’s worse nightmare however overbooking is a perfectly legal practice. Although overbooking is common, the number of passengers who are denied boarding is small.

While the airlines maximize profits, passengers enjoy an array of flexibility due to overbooking such as moving their travel dates after purchase or in situations when a customer misses their flight, still having an opportunity to arrive at their destination. Overbooking also allows the airlines to keep flight costs low.

Know Your Rights

Although overbooking is legal, as a paying customer you should know your rights if you are ever bumped from your flight. In the event, you are in an overbook flight situation, a gate agent will proactively look for volunteers to move to a later flight often lined with travel vouchers or other types of compensation. Compensation such as free meals, free upgrades or admission into their swanky airport lounges help sweeten the pot too. If the airline cannot clear enough seats, the pay-off will generally increase as the flight nears take-off eventually capping off at $1,350 per person.

Most passenger are unaware that they enter in a legal contract each time they purchase an airline ticket. A passenger’s rights are defined in the Contract of Carriage which clearly outlines the legal expectations of the passenger and the airlines. Under contract each passenger agrees that their flight may be overbooked and can be involuntarily denied boarding based on the airlines discretion only after a reasonable amount of compensation has not been accepted. In an event, there are more passengers than seats, an airline is legally able to involuntarily deny boarding or remove passengers.

What to Do if you are on an Overbooked Flight

If you are sitting at your gate and hear your flight is overbooked you will have to think about which options benefits you the most. You will need to ask yourself how important it is for you to arrive at your destination on how much you are willing to be compensated.

In most cases, there will be enough volunteers who are willing to accept travel vouchers in which you will remain on your flight. If there are not enough volunteers, any passengers who are denied boarding will then be compensated for missing their flight which can constitute a higher pay off.

So which airlines should I take?

GOOD: Hawaiian , Delta and Virgin America
BAD: Alaska, United, Spirit and Frontier
WORSE: American, jetBlue and Southwest

Whether you need a visa or not to enter the Philippines depends on your intent of your stay and how long you plan to stay there. Since the Philippines continues to maintain diplomatic relations with the US, US citizens may avail themselves of visa-free entry into the Philippines, provided their stay does not exceed 30 days. There are also other factors that plays a part in what type of visa you can apply for, such as marital status. Being married to a Filipino citizen allows you access to other types of visas  not offered to others.

Less than a Month

For those US Citizens who plan to travel to the Philippines for less than 30 days, you will not need a visa to enter. Upon entry, you will receive an entry stamp when you arrive at the airport which will also contain the date you must exit the Philippines (30 days from the date of entry). For you to receive a 30-day entry stamp, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure. In addition, you must also provide a return ticket to the United States or an onward ticket to another country.

Visits over 30 Days

For US Citizens who plan to stay longer in the Philippines for longer than 30 days, a visa must be obtained prior to your arrival. To obtain a tourist visa, you will need to present a copy of your itinerary, hotel reservations, proof of financial capacity (photocopy of latest bank statement and an employment certificate from the employer indicating position and salary, or affidavit of support), and an invitation letter from friends or family members living in the Philippines. If you’re applying for a business visa, you will need a letter from your employer or sponsor. There is a fee to secure your temporary visa – single entry valid for (3) months – $30.00 USD, multiple entry valid for (6) months – $60.00 USD, and multiple entry valid for (12) months – $90 USD.

Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visas are reserved for a foreign national based on their valid marriage to a Philippine citizen and their children under the age of 21. To apply for an Immigrant visa, applicants must submit a medical examination which also include chest x-rays, police record and an in-person interview. In addition, you must also provide documentary evidence of spouse’s Philippine citizenship in form of NSO birth certificate or passport, evidence of financial status such as bank statements, real state or a notarized Affidavit of Support from a relative in the Philippines, with attached documents to substantiate declaration or claim. The current fee for an Immigrant visa is $150 USD which must be paid in cash or money order. Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

Balikbayan Program

The Balikbayan Program as instituted by Republic Act 6768 (amended by Republic Act 9174) was launched by the Philippine Government to attract and encourage overseas Filipinos to come and visit their motherland. This is in recognition of their contribution to the economy of the country through the foreign exchange inflow and revenues that they generate. The program allows visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one (1) year for foreign passport holders, with the exception of visa-required nationals.

Under the “Balikbayan Program” of the Philippines, the following persons are considered Balikbayans:

• a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one year from the date of last departure;
• a Filipino Overseas Worker; and
• a former Filipino citizen who had been naturalized in a foreign country and holds a foreign passport (original proof of former Philippine citizenship, such as old Philippine passport, birth certificate, or foreign naturalization papers showing Filipino nationality will be required).

Balikbayans are entitled to the following benefits:

• travel tax exemption
• visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one year from the date of arrival in the Philippines
• duty-free shopping privileges up to US$1,500.00

Family members (spouse and children) of a Balikbayan who are holding foreign passports are also entitled to Balikbayan privileges, on the condition that they:

• travel with the Balikbayan;
• pay any applicable immigration fees; and
• observe and comply with immigration rules and regulations.

Balikbayans traveling to the Philippines are advised to declare before the Philippine Immigration Officer at the port of entry that he/she is availing of the privilege and has to present either their old Philippine passport or copy of Philippine birth certificate as proof of their former Philippine citizenship.
Accompanying family members of the balikbayan should bring appropriate supporting documents:
• For the spouse: copy of marriage certificate
• For each child: copy of birth certificate
• For adopted children: copy of adoption papers

If you do not fall within the following categories or you have any questions in regards to your status, visit http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/ for more information.

by: Alvin Adriano, ACC, CTA

Traveling has become easier for everyone within the last 8 months and the trends continue to show that this is the golden age of travel. With comparisons from year to year, 2017 is set to break record lows in affordability, increase customer satisfaction and consistent on-time departure and arrivals. It doesn’t matter if you are flying domestic or internationally, there has never been a better time to book a trip and escape from your normal routine and experience the world.

Since 1970, after the deregulation of the airline industry, prices for flying has steadily fallen, allowing passengers to enjoy affordable prices to almost anywhere in the world. Economy prices have reached the lowest margin in three years and continue to set records. Last month, United and American Airlines introduced there “basic economy” fares which allow even more reduced rates to compete against ultra-low fare carriers such as Spirit, Frontier and Allegiant.

Even in the international sector, airlines such as Emirates and Etihad Airlines continue to add new routes, connecting more destinations and has allowed easier accessibility with numerous hubs and itineraries to choose from. With a variety of choices, passengers now have a lot more flexibility which will keep prices low.

Three years ago, roundtrip tickets to Manila ranged between $900-$1100 per person with only 3-4 carriers to choose from. Today you can buy the same ticket for less than $700 with numerous airlines with far better connection times and routing.

In addition to lower pricing, the overall experience before and during the flight has greatly improved. Technology has vastly improved the experience and has allowed passengers the to view flight status, receive real time notifications for delays and cancellations and receive their tickets via email or text. Long gone are the days of paper tickets, teletext and inefficient practices that made travel so drawn out and frustrating. Paperwork is the thing of the past and today’s passenger are so well equipped that all their travel documents can be stored on their electronic devices or a cloud-based app.

What about the in-flight experience? My brother-in-law recently took his first international flight to Manila and was so amazed with the number of amenities onboard that he stayed up for the entire flight watching movies, connecting to the Internet and playing games. On Delta Airlines, you can enjoy Wi-Fi and check your email, post your trip on Facebook and play online games while soaring above at 30,000 feet. Staying connected is an important benefit these days and you can enjoy access for 24 hours for only $28.00 per pass.

And lastly, the ease of travel has become even easier with more countries participating in transit programs allowing passengers to avoid purchasing an expensive visa to enter. China now offers a 72-hour visa free transit in eighteen cities for passengers with passports of 51 countries to stay without a visa on direct transit. More and more countries are adopting visa-free policies to increase tourism and drive growth.

Traveling the world can lead to new passions and will broaden a person’s perspective. It is the quickest way to break down perceived barriers between cultures, beliefs and ideas. This year instead of settling for material possessions, budget a trip to explore the world which you can treasure your experience forever.

IN SUMMARY
Korean Airlines economy product is one of the best ways to travel from Washington to Incheon. Pros: Larger seats and aisles to move through, friendly staff and assortment of entertainment. Cons: Pricey compared to other emerging airlines, long layover on the return, always full.

CHECKING IN

Manila International Airport (formerly known as Ninoy Aquino International Airport, NAIA) is the main international gateway for the Philippines and serves about 36 million travelers annually. Manila International is divided into 4 different terminals: Terminals 1 & 3 – International Airlines; Terminal 2 – Domestic flights & Philippine Airlines; Terminal 4 – Local Carriers like AirAsia, TigerAir and Skyjet Airlines. Terminal 1 has 16 gates and serves Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airlines, Korean and Asiana Airlines.

If you do not know, checking in Manila is not an easy task and I would recommend that all passengers make sure to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure. Terminal 1 is the oldest of the 4 terminals and has gone through a well needed renovation to enhance operations.

When checking in, expect long wait times before obtaining your ticket and proceeding to immigration. Note: Immigration is also a bit slow and the average wait time is about 20 minutes. Make sure to have all your paperwork ready when you step up to the Immigration Officer.

Once you pass the final security check point, you can proceed to your gate.

AT THE GATE

Unlike most international terminals, Terminal 1 in Manila does not offer travelers many options for food and shopping. I found the public areas very dull and not as welcoming and would like to see more in the future. If you want to grab something to eat before your flight, make sure to buy something before you enter the Terminal, as I found two options for food but both were limited to small pastries and snacks.

When you arrive at the gate, there was an airline staff member which will check each passenger as an additional security measure. Although you are free to leave the gate area, you will always need to carry your ticket and passport to re-enter.

THE CABIN

When you board your aircraft, you will be greeted by the friendliest flight attendants who always seem to have a calming smile. The flight staff are very friendly and even offer to assist you with your carry-on luggage.  From Manila, Korean Airlines uses the Boeing 777-300 aircraft which has 6 flat bed seats in First Class, 35 lie flat Business/ Prestige Class, and 297 standard economy class seats for a total of 338 total passengers.

As you head towards the Economy Class cabin, you will immediately notice the large aisles that allow passengers to move freely through the airplane.

Passengers with disabilities or the elderly will also truly appreciate the ample space between the rows. Even standing a whopping 5’10, I was able to stretch out my legs and not have to worry about having my knees touch the back of the seat in front of me. Definitely a plus! Korean Airlines also boats some of the widest seats in Economy Class with 18 inches across and a seat pitch of 33-34 degrees (recline).

As you can see, Korean Airlines has 10 inch screens to keep you entertained while on your flight. There is also a convenient USB charging outlet for easy access for your personal electronics and tablets.

Each passenger also receives a Korean Blanket, headphones and slippers. The Korean Airline blankets are the BEST. You are not suppose to take them and is strictly prohibited, however they are very comfy and warm (I have three).

THE FOOD

I absolutely love Korean food however I was not impressed with the food. During each meal service, passengers can choose from a traditional Korean dish or an American style meal. I tried the Bibimbap which was very tasty and filling and also came with kimchi and fruits. Each meal also comes with red plum wine.

This is the American dish, which was also good – Beef Bourguignon.

THE SERVICE

There is a major difference between U.S. based airlines and its competitors in Asia when it comes to service. Flight attendants are some of the most polite and friendliest people I have ever met and are always willing to help when asked upon. The staff onboard are very attentive and even anticipate your needs when they see you are even a little bit uncomfortable. I was even surprised at the immediate response time when I pressed the call button (20 seconds).

Every staff member speaks English well and are very helpful in accommodating your needs. I do have to mention that the service is wonderful however can seem very robotic at times, but nonetheless enjoyable.

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

I am a big fan of Korean Airlines and hope they continue to maintain the of level of standard that most people expect when traveling with them. From the beginning at check-in to the in-flight service, you definitely feel that each staff member loves their job is genuinely pleasant and sincere. The food was good and tasty, however would have loved more snacks to fight off the hunger during the long haul between Incheon and Washington, D.C. Korean Airlines will need to continue to innovate in competition to the Gulf carriers and Chinese carriers which have consistently expanded their operations in Manila.

It’s true that the world of travel is shrouded with uncertainty. No matter how well you plan and prepare, sometimes things change and it can be very frustrating dealing with change fees. On domestic carriers like Delta and American airlines, passengers can pay changes fees at around $200 per ticket and for international flights, it can reach up to $450.

Without knowing the fare rules, you can be at the mercy of the airlines and I would suggest you speak to your travel agent to find out your options. Here are some tips when trying to avoid those fees and saving some serious money.

1. Free Cancellations – Depending on where you purchase your tickets, you may be able to cancel your ticket out right with no reason at all. Most tickets come with a free cancellation policy in which you cancel with a penalty with 4-24 hours from the time you purchased the ticket. If you are working with a travel agent, they can often times waive cancellation fees to accommodate your requests and rebook your ticket.
2. Buy travel insurance – A wide range of insurance is now available to purchase which you can even cancel for any reason at all (75% trip cancellation), however insurance can now cover change fees to give more value to their plans. Travel Insured and Roamright both have great plans that offer reimbursement for covered reasons when you make changes to your flight.
3. Making Changes the Day of – If you want to fly out early or later that day ad you are on a domestic itinerary, you can go to the airport and request to see if there is space available. U.S. carriers usually charge around $50-$75 per person to make those type of moves. Be weary, because it all depends on availability. TIP: About 15% of travelers cancel or change their flights which can leave open spaces on flights. To maximize space and minimize waste, airlines will commonly overbook flights. If your flight is overbooked, you can volunteer and receive compensation including the full value of your ticket and rebook for a later date.
4. One way tickets – Looking for promotional fares can be a great way to save as long as you are flexible. Travelers can avoid paying change fees by purchasing one way fares and booking their flight as needed. Remember when purchasing one way tickets, you run the risk of paying two change fees. If the cost of the ticket is less than the penalty doubled in price, you always purchase a round trip ticket. It will save you money in the end.
5. Buy refundable tickets – If you know for a fact that you will need the flexibility when you travel, you can opt to purchase a refundable ticket which allows you free changes. Keep in mind that these fares are usually double the price of nonrefundable tickets and are primarily bought by corporate travelers.
6. Check for Changes to your Flight – Even the airlines can make changes to the flight details which can help you avoid change fees. Wait until the end and watch out for any delays, cancellations, extra layover, or even weather related issues can cause the airlines to waive their fees. You never know what issue they may have and with a little help, you can save your money for another day. If all fails, you might have to make a scene, but it never hurts to try.
7. Go Southwest or Alaska Airlines – Southwest is the only domestic airline that does not charge cancellation or change fees. Alaska Airline also has a lenient policy allowing you to avoid fees if your flight is changed canceled within 60 days of your flight.

It’s true that the world of travel is shrouded with uncertainty. No matter how well you plan and prepare, sometimes things change and it can be very frustrating dealing with change fees. On domestic carriers like Delta and American airlines, passengers can pay changes fees at around $200 per ticket and for international flights, it can reach up to $450.

Without knowing the fare rules, you can be at the mercy of the airlines and I would suggest you speak to your travel agent to find out your options. Here are some tips when trying to avoid those fees and saving some serious money.

1. Free Cancellations – Depending on where you purchase your tickets, you may be able to cancel your ticket out right with no reason at all. Most tickets come with a free cancellation policy in which you cancel with a penalty with 4-24 hours from the time you purchased the ticket. If you are working with a travel agent, they can often times waive cancellation fees to accommodate your requests and rebook your ticket.
2. Buy travel insurance – A wide range of insurance is now available to purchase which you can even cancel for any reason at all (75% trip cancellation), however insurance can now cover change fees to give more value to their plans. Travel Insured and Roamright both have great plans that offer reimbursement for covered reasons when you make changes to your flight.
3. Making Changes the Day of – If you want to fly out early or later that day ad you are on a domestic itinerary, you can go to the airport and request to see if there is space available. U.S. carriers usually charge around $50-$75 per person to make those type of moves. Be weary, because it all depends on availability. TIP: About 15% of travelers cancel or change their flights which can leave open spaces on flights. To maximize space and minimize waste, airlines will commonly overbook flights. If your flight is overbooked, you can volunteer and receive compensation including the full value of your ticket and rebook for a later date.
4. One way tickets – Looking for promotional fares can be a great way to save as long as you are flexible. Travelers can avoid paying change fees by purchasing one way fares and booking their flight as needed. Remember when purchasing one way tickets, you run the risk of paying two change fees. If the cost of the ticket is less than the penalty doubled in price, you always purchase a round trip ticket. It will save you money in the end.
5. Buy refundable tickets – If you know for a fact that you will need the flexibility when you travel, you can opt to purchase a refundable ticket which allows you free changes. Keep in mind that these fares are usually double the price of nonrefundable tickets and are primarily bought by corporate travelers.
6. Check for Changes to your Flight – Even the airlines can make changes to the flight details which can help you avoid change fees. Wait until the end and watch out for any delays, cancellations, extra layover, or even weather related issues can cause the airlines to waive their fees. You never know what issue they may have and with a little help, you can save your money for another day. If all fails, you might have to make a scene, but it never hurts to try.
7. Go Southwest or Alaska Airlines – Southwest is the only domestic airline that does not charge cancellation or change fees. Alaska Airline also has a lenient policy allowing you to avoid fees if your flight is changed canceled within 60 days of your flight.