Headline news about travel

Most travel insurance duplicates existing coverage (Akron Beacon Journal)

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 03:25:40 GMT
Vacation season is coming up, and many travelers have added travel insurance to their list of expenses for a trip. But Consumer Reports says most travel insurance actually just ``duplicates coverage'' that people already have.

Travel Troubleshooter: Bad passport

19 Apr 07 20:12:00 UTC
MSNBC - Q: My husband and I recently purchased a package trip for two from Minneapolis to Costa Rica. We paid $3,791, which included tickets on American Airlines and accommodations. When we arrived at the ticket counter, an American Airlines agent told us ...

Somali-owned travel agency in Tukwila raided in search

20 Apr 07 07:10:00 UTC
Seattle Times - A joint terrorism task force has seized computers and files from a Somali-owned travel agency in Tukwila as part of an international search for Ruben Shumpert, a fugitive who fled to Somalia in November. Shumpert, a South Seattle barber, had been due ...

The Must-Read Article On Travel

Currency Conversion Tips for Travelers

Are you planning on traveling overseas
in the near future? Many people are unprepared when they land in a
foreign country, because they don't have the proper currency. While many
European nations have converted to the Euro, there are still plenty of
different currencies used overseas and in Europe. Here are some tips on saving
when you exchange your money in foreign countries.

Currency exchange is big business in Europe. Many currency exchange
businesses make a commission when they either buy or sell currency to you. You
can save lots of money if you need to buy or sell currency. First of all, ATM
machines are one of the most convenient ways to get the foreign currency that
you need. ATM's usually have great exchange rates and can work with many
American banks. Plus using a debit, or back-card is often the best way to go,
because many do not charge conversion fees.

If you are in vacationing in a large city, shop around. You will find
astronomical fees and commissions as well as long lines at the airports and
hotels. You usually can find better deals at legitimate currency
businesses. Never trade currency openly on the street. Many street traders will
give you counterfeit dollars or a lousy exchange rate.

Travelers checks are a convenient way to carry and spend your money
overseas, but be aware that most businesses will still charge a conversion fee
for payment with travelers checks, the same as if you were paying with U.S.
currency.

If you are planning on using your credit card extensively during your trip,
you should note that some credit cards charge a currency-conversion fee and some do not. Credit cards are usually a good choice
when traveling because of the extra theft and charge-back protection they
provide.

In summary, doing a little investigation beforehand can save big money on
your travels overseas.