Know the ground rules: There are no federal requirements when it comes to airline delays, so each carrier has its own guidelines. They’re listed in its “contract of carriage” agreement, available on its website (use the search function) or at ticket counters. Print out the relevant sections on delays and cancellations and take them with you, as well as your trip-insurance policy, if you’ve bought one.
Consider a travel agent: If you’re booking an international trip or a complicated itinerary, using a travel agent can pay off. When widespread cancellations occur, good agents have the know-how to rebook you through other cities or on other carriers.
Charge your trip: Use a credit card for payment in case your airline delay is because the carrier — or any of your other travel providers — has gone belly up.
Call ahead: To avoid getting stranded at the airport in case of a problem, check your flight status online or by phone.
Ask for help: If your plane is delayed, find out how long the disruption is likely to be and whether it’s a "force majeure" situation. That way, you can find out whether you might be entitled to any meals or a hotel room. Either way, it can’t hurt to ask for assistance.
If your flight is canceled, skip airport lines: Call reservations or your travel agent instead -- it may be quicker than waiting at a customer-service counter. If you qualify, go to the airline lounge for help. Ask whether you can get rebooked on another airline. Using another carrier probably won’t speed things up if the delay is due to weather, but if could help if the delay is due to airline-specific issues like mechanical problems.
Use you status but be nice: If you’re an elite frequent flyer or traveling in premium class, or if you booked a full-fare tickets, be sure you let the airline rep know that because it may help you get freebies like phone cards or meal or hotel vouchers. Just keep in mind that airlines are not required to offer compensation “damages” in case of delays, so demanding them can be a waste of energy. But you might have luck asking for credit toward a future flight.
Have a pet fish for a hotel roommate
InterContinental Tampa’s newest offering is the Tampa Stayquarium Package. Beginning at $161 on weekends, the package includes tickets for two adults and two children to The Florida Aquarium. Guests will also have the company of a pet fish in a small aquarium to display in their room for the duration of their stay, and a “Finding Nemo” CD. The package is available through Dec. 30. call 866-402-0758 and mention rate code IKCT1 or visit www.intercontampa.com.
Trivial question
How tall is the Eiffel Tower? 384 feet? 684 feet? 984 feet? Or 1,284 feet? (Answer near the bottom of this posting.)Transformers fans, this one's for you
Chicago is transforming into a Hollywood set this summer as the backdrop for the "Transformers 3" movie. Which is why Hotel 71, located along the Riverwalk, is offering a Transformers room package and special menus to celebrate filming that will take place in the immediate area. The Transform Your Summer package is available during the four to six weeks "Transformers 3" is filming and includes overnight accommodations, 30% off a second room, a $20 credit at 71 East Cafe toward Transformers menu items, complimentary viewing of "Transformers and Transformers " and an arrival amenity.Visit www.hotel71.com. To book the second room, call 312-346-7100.
Fascinating fact
Indonesia has 167 of the 850 active volcanoes known in the world.
Worth quoting
Travelers never think that they are the foreigners. -- Mason Cooley
Grandparents stay for free -- if ...
Grandparents get a complimentary all-inclusive stay worth up to $2,478 when the family books a minimum of five rooms at Grand Velas All Suite & Spa Resort Riviera Maya and Velas Vallarta Suite Resort in Puerto Vallarta. A $500 USD credit towards a future stay and special family activities are also included. Additionally, children under 16 stay free when sharing a suite with their grandparents. At Velas Vallarta Suite Resort in Puerto Vallarta, the package features a welcome dinner on the beach for the family with live mariachi music.Grandparents can also indulge in a 25-minute massage at the Velas Vallarta spa. Packages at both resorts include airport and hotel transfers. Packages start at $270 per person, per night based on double occupancy, through Dec. 23 at Velas Vallarta and $413 through Dec. 19at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. A minimum three-night stay is required at both resorts. Cal 888-323-2776 or visit www.velasresorts.com.
Trivial answer
The Eiffel Tower stands 984 feet high.
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