Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Pakistan International Airlines

In 1947, after a series of meetings between the wise and far-sighted diplomats live and work in India, the world has a new country. India was divided into two separate states, India and Pakistan. However, this statement does not reveal the full meaning of that Division.

The country was given the name Pakistan was originally two separate areas. An area on the eastern border of India, and a second contact region to the western border of India.Residents of Pakistan immediately sought a way to quickly from one area to another. Your search for a form of rapid transit has led to the formation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

Today, pilots do not always work for the PIA flight to Pakistan, and not always fly in India. Today, pilots flying for PIA in and out of the cities of the United States, Canada, UK, Ireland and other parts of Europe. They alsofly in and out of cities in South Asia, East Asia and the Persian Gulf region.

A flight from Pakistan to the United States can not be done in a short period of time. Such a flight lasting nearly 20 hours. For this reason, PIA has decided that its riders have with accommodation in SU PIA management bought the Roosevelt Hotel Deals in New York City. PIA has also the Hotel Scribe in Paris.

Pakistan International Airlines offers visitors from around the worldbetter access to the most significant in Pakistan. Pakistan International Airlines offers the only nonstop flight from London to Karachi. Passengers sit on PIA flights of aircraft in landing in Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Quetta and Pashawar.

Some PIA flights take tourists to the point of departure of a train in the Khyber Pass. Other PIA flights take tourists to areas in northern Pakistan. A couple of PIA flights follow a flight plan with a detailedEspecially tourists travel package selected.

Most of the passengers on a PIA flight to enjoy the kind of hospitality can be found all over Pakistan. Participants in a PIA flight, are shining examples of generosity. Air passengers are always well fed. Passengers on a flight from PIA benefit is improved air safety. Since the London bombings have flights from the United Kingdom had very tight security.

PIA is committed to live up to its new slogan:"Come fly with us." PIA Awards Program offers a Plus and a program. Those who receive free tickets to participate in that program. You'll also enjoy priority check-in services PIA. Even those who remain on the ground after a flight on PIA Cargo enjoy the amenities offered by the PIA. You can use the monitor to complete.

PIA wants all passengers a pleasant journey. PIA is the satisfaction of every person who has secured a ticket on a flight to ensure PIA. PIA hopesthat nobody is forgotten or reduction of the former airline's motto: "People are flying." Good "

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Ten Tips For First-Time Travelers

If it's your first time on an international flight to Asia, things may be a little confusing. Your trip will require a lot more planning than the short flight you took to visit Uncle Joe in Peoria last year. Here's a few tips for making that long trip go a little more smoothly.

1. Make sure your ticket has the same name as your ID and passport. If your passport says "Daniel" for example, don't book your ticket under "Dan." And if your passport has your maiden name, book your ticket the same way.

2. Get to the airport on time. Plan to get to your departing airport at least two hours before your flight leaves. Remember too that airport traffic can be very congested, and it may take you longer to even get to the airport than you anticipated. Confirm that your flight is still on schedule before you leave your home.

3. The comfort factor. You will be sitting in a small seat in close quarters for hours on end. Chicago to Tokyo for example, might be a 12 hour flight. Sitting that long in a small seat is going to be more uncomfortable than you ever imagined (unless you're lucky enough to be flying first-class). Even under the best conditions, it's hard to sleep, it's not very comfortable, and your legs may cramp. It's important to keep your circulation flowing to your legs by getting up every now and then just to stretch or walk down the aisle. You can even do a little exercise right in your seat if the aisle's blocked-just move your legs around a bit at your seat, cross and un-cross your legs, and stretch them in and out. Removing your shoes will also increase your comfort factor-but make sure you have clean socks when you do!

4. How many suitcases? The rules are tighter, and not all airlines are the same. Don't assume you can bring two big suitcases to check in and two more to carry on. Many international airlines now only allow you one large and one small check-in, one carry-on and one handbag or laptop, so check the allowed dimensions ahead of time before packing.

5. What to pack? Don't overdo it. Basic items like razors, shaving cream, toothpaste or shampoo are available there, too. If you have children with you, a few comfort foods from back home will go a long way. Take into account the local weather-if you're leaving from Minnesota in January and landing in Kuala Lampur, bring some light clothes and sandals with you, it's going to be hot. And of course, be aware of the restrictions regarding sharp objects and liquids.

6. Connecting flight confusion. You may need to connect to another flight in a strange airport in a country you've never been to before. Typically, these connecting flights are in a major hub, such as Bangkok, Tokyo, or Seoul, all of which have very large and busy airports. Rest assured, there will be signage in English directing you to your destination. Be aware though that not all staff speak English, but if you ask around, you should have no problem finding a staff member who can understand you. Announcements about flights are usually made in multiple languages, but the announcer may have a heavy accent and may be hard to understand-so make sure you have also checked the flight board to make sure you know when your plane is leaving.

7. Review your airport transportation options. When you arrive in a foreign country, finding your way from the airport to your hotel may be a challenge, especially if you are unable to read the signs. Your hotel may have a shuttle; alternately, there is probably a taxi stand at the airport. Be sure to take a taxi directly from the official taxi queue. In some airports, you may find rogue taxi drivers circulating the airport perimeter. These taxis don't use the taxi stand for a reason-they may be trying to rip you off. They may not have a meter, or they may even have more sinister motives in mind.

8. Get some local money, in small denominations. Major Asian airports will have money exchange booths, some of which are open 24 hours. Some airports, such as Tokyo's Narita, even have an automated machine for exchanging currency. As soon as you get through customs, before you leave the airport, avail yourself of this service, even if you think you can get a better rate elsewhere. You will need local currency as soon as you walk outside of the airport. Greenbacks, Loons, Euros, or Pounds won't do you any good if you want something to eat or need a ride. Make sure to get small denominations, as taxi drivers and food stall operators are unlikely to carry much change-and if all you have are thousand baht notes in your pocket, you may be stuck giving your driver a much larger tip than you intended.

9. Getting to your hotel. Once you leave the airport, finding people that speak English may be a little more difficult. Check the web site of your hotel-it will probably have directions and a map written both in English and in the native language. Print out a copy of this, so you can show it to your driver. Airport drivers, even if they don't speak English, are usually familiar with most of the major tourist hotels.

10. Don't have a tight schedule. If you're planning on getting to a meeting an hour after you land, forget about it. Plan on at least two hours to get your bags and go through immigration. Also keep in mind that large airports tend to be quite some distance from the center of town, and your taxi ride to your final destination may easily consume another hour's worth of time.

10 Simple Ways to Pay Less & Get Free Upgrades for Any Hotel Room

Book Early & Be Flexible

Almost all hotels have a limited amount of rooms at the best rates and are usually available to the first few that reserve on a particular date. All hotels want a full house and strive for this every night. To get the best prices book early and try to be flexible with your dates.

Book for Off-Seasons

You'll find the best rates for a hotel room during the off-season when the hotel tends to have empty rooms. Hotels generally have great prices during the week and business hotels in the downtown area during the weekends when their customers are at home.

Check for Combination Offers

You might be able to get even more by booking your room along with certain airlines or attraction tickets.

Ask if You're Eligible for a Special Rate

Corporate rate: in general anyone with a personal business card with a company name and address on it could qualify. Most hotels are pretty lenient with this. You won't know until you ask. Government rate - in most cases if you work for the military or federal government most hotels will give you a special rate if you ask for one. In most cases if you are a local or state employee hotels will also offer you the same discounts if you ask.

"Cash In" Your Points

See if you can redeem your accumulated frequent flyer points for a better hotel room. You might be surprised at what other perks they might offer you.

See What Consolidators Offer

See if your hotel room will be cheaper through a consolidator as they buy large blocks of rooms and often pass on the savings to you.

Look for Hidden Specials

Call the hotel chain's national 1-800 number and also check with the hotel directly, since operators may be offering a special which either is aware of. Also surf to the hotels own website, sometime they offer hidden internet only specials that are not available anywhere else.

Complain

If you are unhappy with your accommodations, speak up and make it known that you would like to be compensated with a better room. If your hotel room is close to a noisy utility unit complain and demand to be compensated.

Schmooze

Schmoozing will ensure that you're remembered by the hotel staff, which can come in handy in your pursuit for an upgrade, especially if you stay in at the same hotel regularly.

Don't Get Stuck

Most hotels will keep a reservation until 6p.m., if you plan on arriving later ask to guarantee the room with a credit card. If you are delayed en route, call the hotel and ask to hold your reservation until you arrive. Get a card with the hotel's name, address and telephone on it in case you get lost exploring. Also, most established hotels have checkout times ranging from 11a.m. to 2p.m. If you need additional time request it in advance as you may be charged an additional night.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

How Safe is Phuket For Travel?

Phuket is one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations, and yet visitor numbers are well down on previous year. The beaches and streets in Phuket are quiet and businesses are beginning to feel the strain. Thailand's political problems have been well documented by the media, so much so that the country is portrayed as being in complete anarchy. Although the problems have been centered in Bangkok, they have impacted Phuket. But what's the reality of the situation? Should tourists be wary of traveling to Phuket?

The short answer is "no". For a bit of perspective, Thailand has had numerous problems over the years, from coups to bombings. However, it was only the tsunami that really affected tourism in the long run. Thailand's internal problems usually create a few short-term ripples and the media writes of chaos in the streets, but for people living in Thailand, they will tell you that life goes on as usual.

In Phuket, tourism is way down. Hotels are nowhere near full and people on the island are saying that the effect on the industry will be worse in the long term than the tsunami. It's such a dire situation, but it's also completely unnecessary. Travel advisory warnings also don't help.

If you were to visit Phuket right now you'd see a peaceful island. There are no more dangers than normal and everything is safe. There's no fighting in the streets and tourists aren't being victimized or attacked. In fact, there's probably never been a better time to visit Phuket because the island is less crowded than usual.

The beaches are still there and the popular sites are waiting for visitors to trickle in. Of course, travelers should still exercise the same caution they would when visiting Phuket any time of the year. Traveling alone on a motorcycle at night isn't a good idea and care should be taken when out and about. But don't let the news reports put you off a trip to Phuket.

It's a sad state of affairs, but hotel-booking websites have been reporting a huge decline in bookings. The same is true of airlines, who are now throwing out offers left, right and center to entice people to visit Thailand. There are bargains to be snapped up at the moment.

So if Phuket is safe for tourists, then what about Bangkok, where most of the trouble has been? There have been protests and airport closures and all sorts. However, unless you had a plane to catch during that time, if you were in Bangkok, you wouldn't have noticed much out of the ordinary other than when you turned on the news. Everything carried on as usual. It always does.

After the most recent coup, the tanks and soldiers became a tourist attraction. The resultant protests were mostly jovial affairs with picnics and concerts. Some media reports were speculating that Thailand was about to become a bloodbath, similar to revolutions of the past, but such events didn't materialize.

Forums, blogs and phone lines have been inundated with people asking if Phuket is still safe for travel. It is safe, and it likely will be for a long time to come.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Best Flights Last Minute Deal for Asia - Air China LAX to BKK

I use to take China Air for many trips over to Asia especially Bangkok from LAX as Eva and China Air almost always had the best deals, however for the past few years I have been getting good rates on Star Alliance Partners, either with Asiana, which if you are going to Bangkok, routes through Pudong Airport in Inchon, or United going through Hong Kong & Saigon Vietnam.

At the last minute I had to make a change to my flight reservation and move it up 6 weeks, and when I called United to get my cheap flight changed on one leg, they wanted almost $100 more for the change than I paid for the whole round trip! So I hopped online to see what was available. The best deal that I could find to get to Bangkok at the last minute...China Air, which was the only game in town, everything else was a couple hundred dollars more on a one way ticket.

I remember that the thing that I really hated about the China Air flight schedule was that there was a 6 hour layover at Chiang Kai-shek Airport in Taipei, which is besides LAX in my opinion, the worst airport in the world, back in the day there was no internet and the food and drink was horrible, and to add insult to injury they were charging 5 star prices. I use to bring a pool mattress and an alarm clock and sleep on the terminal floor it was that bad. Well they have made some improvements to the airport, but thankfully the layover now is only 2 hours, which after a bathroom break and stretching your legs was an easy one to do.

On Cheap Bangkok flights I always have a problem sleeping in the cramped positions back in the sardine section, so I was surprised when I actually slept a lot of the flight to Bangkok do to the new chairs on the updated China Air 747 that they use from LAX to BKK, the new seats slide forward giving the felling, if not an actual increase in the angle of the recline, and it really felt much better.

The other thing that you will notice this once again the cheapest flight to Bangkok, I find much in the last minute, Boeing aircraft, the selection also has a large entertainment system with large, who probably at least 10 films, and then a lot of TV shows, and a very cool interactive map that can be manipulated, and can also send text messages via SMS if you have a credit card or debit card with you.

The only thing I would say that my expectations would be lessbe the food, it was good, but I was hungry soon after, to be fair they did have sandwiches and fresh fruit available, but on long flights I like to get myself into a food comma, which is usually when I will get a short cat nap in.

The other thing that I am noticing is that none of the international flights that I have been on in recent memory are offering OJ with the water when they come around the cabin. When I am in the big tube, I max out the vitamin C to hopefully ward off any nasty bugs that are confined, re-circulated and amplified in the small space of a pressurized air cabin. Along the same line, I would also like to see some sort of sanitizer wipe given out at the beginning of the flight, even leave them on the seats so that you can wipe down all the surfaces that you are likely to touch, like the TV screen, the tray table and the arm rests,

All in all for a really cheap flight last minute LAX to Bangkok, I would give China Air a 9 out of 10 experience and will look at using them again in the future.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

The Scintillating Destinations of Thailand

Thailand, a country full of fun, activity and colors is an amazing destination to visit. Thailand Holiday Packages never fails to fascinate and amaze citizens of various age groups. Nevertheless, there are several gorgeous towns, shoreline and isles; and the hospitality the people extend is beyond imagination and this makes the city a very popular place with the travelers. Some of the famous Thailand Destinations during the Thailand Holiday Package are

Bangkok, to be found on the edge of the Chao Phraya River, is the vibrant capital city of Thailand. Bangkok is the biggest city in the whole country with the population of about 7,000,000

A globally famous seashore resort, Patty is positioned nearly 170 km south of Bangkok on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand. The city extends some 15 kilometers all along the coastline. People of different nationalities reside over here.

Koh Samui is the third biggest isle in Thailand. It is to be found in the Surat Thani area and is approximately 500 km south of the Bangkok. The beautiful island, more or less round in shape, is cited in the bay of Thailand.

Chiang Mai is the city that combines the most excellent portion of Bangkok but it is an extremely small city. It is perhaps a fantabulous place to give a jerk start to your trip. Other than this, mountain bikes, mountain climbing, hot-air ballooning and horse riding are some of the most famous amusing activities among the travelers.

Hua Hin Just some distance from Bangkok, is a wonderful beach resort that is very famous with the residents. A submissive spot makes a grand place for family vacationer on their way to south.

Phuket is considered to be one of the most famous and popular tourist spots in Thailand Holiday Package. Phuket is a conspicuously stunning island. This island is full of fun and the individuals and families coming over here have a lot of fun. Visiting Thailand and not going to Phuket will be the biggest blunder you will do. There are numerous beaches in Phuket that are actually jam-packed round the year.

Some of the most popular airlines providing service from UAE to Bangkok are Thai Airways Flights, Express Rail Flights. There are nearly 27 direct flights from Dubai, AE to the Thailand. There are 2 aircrafts with straight flights from Dubai, AE to Thailand.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Top 3 Asia Cheapest Flights

Flights to Asia are no longer cheap as anyone who has priced airfares recently can attest.
Too start off we should get an idea of the differences in the prices in the last 7 years. The Asia cheap flights went from close to $500 Bangkok LA or Bangkok San Francisco to over $1000 today; at this rate it is not hard to imagine the prices doubling again in the next 7 years as things like carbon taxes and higher fuel cost combined with general inflation and more people in Asia joining the ranks of the middle class and spreading their wings, doubling of airfares really isn't that far fetched. The cheapest flight from the west coast of the USA either Seattle, San Francisco or Los Angeles today is going to cost you over $1100 USD even if you do everything right like book in advance 60 to 90 days, Book on a Monday - Tuesday, and select mid week flights while being flexible with multi stops and longer layovers.

China Air and Eva Air out of Los Angeles or San Francisco these 2 airlines can get you to Bangkok cheaper that any other airlines out there on a regular and consistent basis. Something recently learned is that China Air will allow you to exchange frequent flyer miles for a discount on the flights, 5% on an $1100 flight is $55 USD; this kind of thinking will make them a favorite of the budget travelers and businessman that are flying on their own dime. The great thing about this is that China Air will actually ask you when you are booking if you have any miles to cash in! I don't ever remember a big western airline encouraging me to cash in my frequent flyer miles.

Air Asia, Tiger Air, Cebu Pacific, Virgin, China Southern many of these are becoming household names even in the west if you have any exposure to Asia at all certainly every one has heard of the virgin group of companies run by Sir Richard Branson. I love to talk about these cheap regional airlines as they are what keep the big guys honest. They are at a disadvantage that they are not in the big databases and so you do not pick up these flights unless you specifically look for them. I anticipate that a booking engine will evolve that will include these cheaper air carriers which will put a lot of pressure on the big travel sites to get them into their mix as well right now they are controlled by the big airlines who have zero incentive to include the little niche budget airlines.

Finding a hub city that has service from one of these carriers can result in fantastic savings when you get off the big international carriers like United, JAL, Asiana, Malaysia Air, Thai Air ect. This is where the special deals come in subscribing to the airlines news letters setting up notifications on Side Step, Mobisimo and the big sites Orbitz, Expedia and Travelocity to hub cites that have regional carriers going to your destination. The bigger Asia hubs being Beijing, Shanghai, Bangkok, Singapore KL. Tokyo and Hong Kong while being hubs don't have a lot of budget carriers so are harder to route through Manila has lots of budget carriers out but very expensive in general to get there compared to Bangkok or Singapore. In general it is cheaper to fly past the Philippines and double back I can remember one time flying from Bangkok to Singapore back to Bangkok on to Manila and saving a couple hundred dollars for the extra flying time!

So to sum up as the airfares to Asia go up your top 3 best bets to get the cheapest flights to Asia We feel will continue to be China Air and Eva Air from the west coast of USA, getting off the international carries in the larger Asia hub cites with good budget carrier service for the last legs switching over to the regional budget carriers like Air Asia Tiger Air, China Southern, Virgin Group airlines and Cebu Pacific and doing the research to find the cheap promotional airfare deals and watch from as far out as you can.