Check Current Passport and Visa Requirements, Travel Warnings, and Other Travel Related Topics

 

The US Government keeps an up–to–date web site for everything related to travel. Use this resource for current travel warnings, document requirements, travel tips, country information, and more. click here

 

State Department Proposes New Passport Fees

 

The State Department has proposed new fees for many of its passport–related products and services. The total proposed cost of a new passport will increase from $100 to $135 for adults and from $85 to $105 for minors. Renewals will increase from $75 to $110 for adults and from $60 to $80 for minors. Travelers needing extra visa pages will soon pay $82. Currently, this service is free.


While no formal implementation date has been given for the changes, the State Dept. has indicated that it intends to implement the new fees once it has had time to consider public comments. The public comment period for the proposed fees ends on March 11, 2010.


Vanguard recommends that travelers who need to apply for or renew a passport, and frequent travelers who may be in need of extra visa pages should submit the appropriate applications immediately to avoid these future increased costs.

 

Wise Meeting Planners Capitalizing on Current Market Conditions

 

Now is the best time in recent history for meeting and incentive travel purchasing. Corporations that recognize this are taking advantage of great economic benefits and are booking their future programs now.


Hotels in most markets, both nationally and internationally, are offering exceptional rates, terms and conditions. Many will now offer extremely liberal cancellation and attrition provisions, basically eliminating risk for corporate buyers; contracts include generous upgrades and value–added amenities as well.


International programs are within reach once again because of favorable exchange rates. The Euro, Pound Sterling and Canadian Dollar represent excellent value for buyers. Many of our partners are offering very attractive guaranteed US Dollar rates on packed programs.


In any down market, there are opportunities. If you would like to explore ideas for future meetings or incentive travel programs, please contact Doug Moorhouse at 763.225.8780.

 

New Highway Signage at Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport

 

Between late March and mid April 2010, a series of new and updated signs will be installed along highways leading to the exits for each terminal at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport. The project allows – for the first time – the names of the airlines located at each terminal to be listed on highway signs. The signs will also designate the terminals as Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, rather than Lindbergh and Humphrey, respectively. Airlines and other organizations that issue boarding passes have been notified of this terminal designation change, as have the airport’s service partners.


During the transition, it is possible that some boarding passes will use a letter (L or H) while others will already list the terminal number (1 or 2).

 

Marriott Rewards Announces Benefit for Gold and Platinum Elite Members

 

Starting May 7, all Gold and Platinum Elite members in Marriott’s Rewards program will receive free internet access at nearly 450 hotels across the U.S. and Canada. This exclusive benefit is available at Marriott Hotels and Resorts, JW Marriott, and Renaissance Hotels. Every guest will continue to receive free internet access at all Courtyard, Fairfield Inn and Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn, and TownePlace Suites hotels in the U.S. and Canada.

 

Continental Plans to Charge Extra for Coach Seats with More Leg Room

 

Beginning March 17, Continental will begin charging a premium on economy seats that have extra legroom, such as exit–row and bulkhead seats. Pricing for the seats with extra legroom will vary depending on a number of factors, including length of the flight and market. Customers will have the option of purchasing these seats at check–in, either online or at an airport kiosk, beginning at 24 hours prior to departure. Continental frequent flyers who have achieved Elite status will be able to continue to assign themselves seats with extra legroom in economy without a charge, as will their traveling companions.