Travel-On Travel Industry News
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Friday, November 02, 2012
Events We're Watching

Caribbean and United States - Hurricane Sandy Aims for US East Coast
Hurricane Sandy weakened to a Category 1 storm as it continued moving northward through the Bahamas Islands early Oct. 26. The storm is likely to track northward off the coast of the Florida Peninsula before it turns northeastward, passing offshore of the coast of the Carolinas, and well to the west of Bermuda Oct. 27-28. There is a strong possibility that the storm will be drawn toward the Mid-Atlantic or New England regions of the US Oct. 29-30; current models, which could still change dramatically this far in advance, predict the storm will retain hurricane strength as it passes northward off of North Carolina's Outer Banks, before turning to the northwest and making landfall in the Delmarva peninsula/southern New Jersey area early Oct. 30. While the forecast remains unclear, a potential landfall in the northeast US would cause severe disruptions to the area. Heavy rains, strong winds, and storm surge could begin as early as Oct. 27 in eastern North Carolina, and northward along the East Coast as the storm rogresses. Rains may produce life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in elevated areas. Adverse weather conditions may cause power outages, particularly in areas already prone to inadequate electricity coverage. Flooding, landslides, and downed trees and power lines may make some roads impassable. Expect seaport and airport disruptions in affected areas. Prepare for the storm's arrival as early as possible.

What Travel-On is Doing:

Travel-On / Travel Place continues to identify travelers who may be in these areas or whose travel plans may be impacted, and our agents are contacting them or the travel administrator to provide assistance. If you have any questions about this emergency situation, please contact one of our agents, your travel team leader, or your account manager. We will continue to monitor these conditions and bring you any updates or changes as the news breaks.

What Travelers Can Do:

  • Download and use the Mobile Personal Assistant (requires company enrollment)
  • Sign up for automated FlightStats alerts in the Notification section of your online traveler profile
  • Contact our 24-Hour Emergency Service at the number listed on your itinerary or call 1-877-858-3254. (please bear in mind that during extreme or multiple travel disruptions hold times will be longer than normal)

Laos, Philippines and Vietnam - Tropical Storm Ofel (Son-Tinh) Enters South China Sea
Tropical Storm Ofel (international name Son-Tinh) is moving northwestward in the South China Sea after crossing the central Philippines. The storm is centered 210 miles west of Metro Manila, and has maximum sustained winds of 47 mp). Heavy rains are likely to continue in much of the west-central Philippines through at least early Oct. 26, including the area in the National Capital Region. The storm has already brought heavy rainfall of up to 4 inche) to parts of the country, prompting flash flooding in a number of areas. Authorities canceled several dozen domestic flights at Metro Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Meanwhile, ferry service has been suspended in much of the country, leaving more than 13,000 passengers stranded at various ports. The storm has been blamed for three deaths, while at least nine people remain missing. Meteorologists predict the storm will briefly strengthen into a tropical cyclone around Oct. 27 before making landfall in central Vietnam, likely in Ha Tinh or Quang Binh province. From there, the storm is projected to shift further north, hitting northern Vietnam and Laos, before dissipating. Heavy rains are also likely in China's Hainan Island Oct. 26-27 as the storm passes south, though landfall is not projected.

Spain - Call for Strikes Nov 14
Spain's labour unions Friday called a general strike for November 14, the second such blanket action this year against the government's biting austerity measures. The European confederation has called for a Europe-wide day of action including strikes, demonstrations and other actions. Unions in Portugal have called a general strike for the same day and the main private sector union in Greece has also called a strike.

Belgium - Rail Unions to Strike
Flemish and Francophone socialist trade unions have filed an application to hold a nationwide strike Oct. 29-30 to protest a Belgian Rail Company NMBS/SNCF reorganization. The unions have not provided specific information on the time or duration of the strike. If not averted, the stoppage could cause significant passenger and freight disruptions, as well as disruptions to Eurostar and Thalys services. If the strike occurs, be prepared to use alternate means of transportation or reschedule travel dates. Contact transportation providers for updated information.

What costs are associated with chartering a private jet?

The simple equation is the flight duration x the hourly rate + expenses. Hourly rates vary according to the type and size of plane (regardless of number of passengers) and generally run between $1,750 and $5,000, including federal taxes, for a business jet. Up to 90 minutes will be added to the flight time for pre-flight prep and post-flight shut-down. Add to that the following expenses: crew accommodations and per diem; hanger, ramp, and landing fees; catering; and security fees/taxes. If it's a round-trip, you will also be responsible for the time the aircraft is waiting on the ground, though this is usually at a lower rate. Individuals or companies with frequent need for charter flights may benefit from joining a club or from "fractionable" ownership of a plane. For more information or assistance with charter reservations, please contact your Travel-On account manager for assistance.

  • In Spain greet people with "buenos dias" until 2p, "buenas tardes" until 8p, and then "buenas noches" after that
  • Portugal is home to the first commercial wave farm, which produces and sells electricity
  • Restaurants in Spain often charge for bread by the piece and once taken is set directly on the table in lieu of a bread plate
  • Bullfighting in Spain is both an sport and an art - never be late!
  • There are more than 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain
  • The oldest bookstore in the world is located in Lisbon
  • Ready to get dirty? Check out the La Tomatina fetival in Bunol when up to 40,000 people gather to throw tomatoes at each other
  • When eating in Spain keep your hands on or above the table at all times
  • Portugal is the world's leading producer of cork, with more than 70% of the world's production

Double Points on Southwest

From now through November 15, 2012, you can earn double points on every flight you take on Southwest Airlines®! Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, or the West—it doesn't matter! This promotion will get you double points on all your Southwest flights from sea to shining sea! Earn double points on Southwest

Still Time to Earn Double Points on Amtrak

Autumn is here, and with it comes a great time to travel and earn big rewards. Register for Double Days today and travel September 5 - November 16, 2012 to receive double points on all Amtrak travel. That’s any route, anywhere with twice the point earnings. Registration is required. Earn Double Points on All Amtrak Travel

Book Now for Holiday Travel

If you have travel plans this holiday season it's time to book! Christmas is on a Sunday this year which means the Friday before and the Monday after will be the peak travel days. Consider these tips:

  • To get the best fares book early, be flexible, and consider alternate airports
  • Remember that busy travel days mean full parking lots and longer security lines - arrive early to allow the extra time
  • Allow plenty of time for connections and take typical weather patterns into account when selecting your flights and connection city
  • It's a busy, often stressful time for everyone - a smile and kind word for the ticket and gate agents are much appreciated
  • Save the wrapping for when you arrive and carry all gifts unwrapped in case they need to be inspected

Contact your Travel-On/Travel Place agent today for assistance with your holiday travel plans.

Inaugural Travel

The Presidential Inaugural will be held on Monday, January 21st. Hotels in D.C., suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia are expecting higher than normal occupancy rates during the period of January 18-23. If you anticipate needing hotel rooms for business travel within the region between these dates, it is recommended that you block space now. Talk to your Travel-On account manager now to discuss your needs.