Posted July 31st, 2008
by Russell Eaton
by Russell Eaton
Airline levels of service and safety records vary tremendously from airline to airline. According to Skytrax, the top airlines in the world (with 5 star ratings) are as follows:
1.Asiana Airlines (South Korea), 2.Cathay Pacific Airways (Hong Kong), 3.Kingfisher Airlines (India), 4.Malaysia Airlines (Malaysia), 5.Qatar Airways (Qatar), 6.Singapore Airlines (Singapore).
The annual five star awards recognize airlines who are “at the forefront of product and service achievement” according to Skytrax – airlines that set trends for others to follow.
Other airlines in the world are given ratings from zero stars to four stars, depending on a broad criteria that examines more than 800 different areas of product and service delivery for each airline, for both ground and onboard operations.
But what about the worst airlines in the world? What about airlines with the worst safety record in the world? For this we have to go to other sources of information.
Judging the worst airlines is much more difficult than judging the best ones. This is because some airlines in remote countries are difficult to compare with major airlines, given the number flights, the routes, the service, etc.
But when accident records are analysed, it is possible to produce a list of showing the worst airlines in the world. Here are the top ten worst airlines in terms of accident ratings, with the worst shown as number one:
1.Cubana Airline, accident rating 5.74. 2.China Airlines, accident rating 3.57. 3.Avianca Colombian Airline, accident rating 3.15 4.TAM Airline, accident rating 2.76. 5.Korean Air, accident rating 2.26. 6.Egypt Air, accident rating 2.06. 7.Indian Air Lines, accident rating 1.94. 8.Taesa Airlines, accident rating 1.83. 9.China Soutwest Airlines, accident rating 1.74. 10.Aeromexico, accident rating 1.55.
This list of worst airlines was compiled by “Airline Accident Ratings” by looking at a twenty-year period from 1981 to 2000. This is the latest data available, and the ratings are based on number of flights, number of airline accidents, and the fatality rate of those accidents. Naturally, this information cannot and should not be used to provide an accurate assessment of an airline safety-rating or future risk of an airline calamity. Also, the list does not “favour” or condemn any particular airline, and a lot can change in the period 2000 – 2008.
However, some airlines clearly have a poor accident and safety record and it is only right to bring this to the attention of the public.
When examining the safety records of airlines, you are hit with the fact that most causes of fatal airline accidents are due to pilot error. Figures compiled over a fifty year period by “Plane Crash Info” show that pilot error accounts for at least 53% of all fatal airline accidents!
The average figures for airline pilot error have remained pretty constant since the 1950?s, showing that modern technology is not helping to reduce the incidence of pilot error.
About the Author:
For more on this subject see
Air Travel Safety Secrets, which reveals safety information that airlines don’t tell you. Anybody traveling by air should get this new ebook, which is completely free. See
www.air-travel-safety.com to get free ebook
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 31st, 2008
by Maria Russell
by Maria Russell
If you have ever wanted to take a trip to South Carolina to take a family beach vacation, there are many places you should visit. South Carolina has a plethora plus beautiful sites and landmarks that will captivate your family.
Finding a place good for everyone in the family can be hard however in South Carolina this will never be a problem. However, one of the most well-known locales to visit in South Carolina is Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach is a wonderful place to take a family beach vacation. It is filled with beautiful beaches, golf courses and amusement
Myrtle Beach is celebrated as the Grand Strand. This place is a long stretch, a 60-mile stretch to be exact, of beautiful sandy shored beaches. It is to be found nearly 98 miles north of Charleston. If you choose to rent a car while visiting here, you can easily drive back and forth from the beach to surrounding cities. Your family is sure to love everything that this area has to offer.
Family beach vacations fun is available here all year round. Meaning you can visit during the winter. Planning a winter family vacation to Myrtle Beach is simple. Eventhough you may not be able to swim in the ocean, many beach resorts surrounding the beach still offer things like heated pools and waterparks. So while the weather is not summer-like, it is possible to have wonderful family beach vacations at Myrtle Beach.
Regardless what your budget may be when in Myrtle Beach there is never a care. This is a fun place that is budget and family-friendly. Nearby lodging and surrounding the areas have many things for the kids to do and you can try scenic beachfront rentals. The price spread varies but they are always moderate and affordable.
Taking a Myrtle Beach family vacation, you should most definitely check out all of the fun and amusement parks that are located here. One of the best is the Family Kingdom Amusement and Water Park. At this park, there is an oceanfront water park that is surrounded with wooden rollercoasters, a Ferris wheel for the children, as well as many other rides for the little ones.
Another entertaining family park to visit in Myrtle Beach is the Myrtle Waves Water Park. This specific park offers over 30 rides for every one in the family. The most enjoyable part of this park is the huge water-tube slide. This amusement is sure to provide thrills and excitement for parents and for children.
The best place to stay in Myrtle Beach is the Kingston Plantation. Despite the negative name, this beach resort is a part of the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, an Embassy Suites Hotel. It even offers condos to rent. The Splash! a pool complex, wonderful thrilling water slides, waterspouts, and kiddie pools.
Preparing a Myrtle Beach family vacation will be an investment that no one in the family will be sorry about. It is inexpensive and the beach is sure to provide fun for the kiddies as well as the grownups.
About the Author:
Looking for a place to spend your family beach vacations? Well look no further
Family Beach Vacations is a one-stop search engine for the
Best Family Beach Vacations in the world!
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 31st, 2008
by John Broffman
by John Broffman
A lot of people may not know this, but Six Flags is more than just an amusement park known for its intense thrills. Six Flags also comes in another form situated all over as well-it’s wet and wild side better known as Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.
Hurricane Harbor water parks are now dispersed throughout the country harmonizing with Six Flags Amusement Parks or on their own. Whichever way they’re situated, every Hurricane Harbor encloses: futuristic water rides, the hottest water slides, fantastic wave pools, rampant rivers and all sorts of splashing merriment.
In Arlington, Texas, you will find the initial Six Flags Water Park where the new Mega Wedgie will be ready for anticipating riders on May 17, summer season. Arlington’s Hurricane Harbor tickets are for: general admission ($24.99), kids below 48″ in height ($19.99), and kids under 2 (free). General and preferred parking options available at $10 and $15, correspondingly.
May 24 officially opens the summer season at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in L.A. where guests get what is called a “California Drenchin”. Hurricane Harbor, L.A. is a weekends-only adventure as of now, and Hurricane Harbor’s tickets in L.A. cost $29.99 (General Admission) and $20.99 for kids less than 48″ in height. Up to 2 y/o are free. Combo tickets are available too for $69.99 which includes both Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor.
New Jersey, on the other hand, consists of Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Six Flags Great Adventure, and Six Flags Wild Safari Animal Park-all neighboring each other. But Hurricane Harbor is said to be the tri-state area’s most excellent water park. Until the summer season starts (June 19), New Jersey’s Hurricane Harbor is open weekends. Tickets are priced starting at $24.99 (kids 54″ and below) with an additional combo ticket available for admissions to both Hurricane Harbor and Wild Safari Animal Park.
You can buy tickets with admission included for those parks wherein Hurricane Harbor and Six Flags Amusement Park are together. The largest of these combined parks is Six Flags Great America/Hurricane Harbor in Illinois. Located on the outskirts of Chicago, its summer opening is May 21. St. Louis has got access to Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor bought together as one ticket which comes with water fun along with admission to the theme park. Summer season opens May 15.
Near Baltimore and Washington, D.C., is Maryland’s Six Flags America in Prince George’s County with a wave pool known to be one of the country’s largest. This is due to open summer in May, 2008.
Hurricane Harbor of Six Flags New England in Springfield, Massachusetts lays claim to two wave pools. From Boston it’s just a quick drive and people can douse themselves there for the summer in late May.
About the Author:
To find out how to get
hurricane harbor coupons head over to John’s site at
www.freethemepark.com
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 31st, 2008
by Alain Schuster
by Alain Schuster
So what are the reasons one should go for all inclusive resorts in Jamaica? These vacations are the ones that not only offer you more convenience but also are more comfortable and allow you to enjoy the Jamaican sun more. But be aware that such vacations are not suitable for everyone as there are certain limitations when it comes to all inclusive resorts in Jamaica.
So what can one expect to get from booking an all inclusive vacation rather than the traditional package one?
Often these types of vacations although they may cost more could end up saving you money in the long run. This is because the spending money you take with for paying for your food, drinks and activities is not required as these are all included within the price of the vacation along with your flights and accommodation.
With a large number of these all inclusive resorts in Jamaica they offer other facilities which package resorts will require you to pay for on top of your accommodation costs. These resorts not only offer you the chance to undergo some spa treatments, but often provide facilities to care for your children whilst you are staying with them.
But yes although everything has been paid for up front for at the resort additional money will be needed if you intend to spend time away from the resort doing a little sightseeing. Plus be aware that when staying at such resorts you are restricted to where you eat and when, plus you may find that entertainment that they provide in the evenings is somewhat limited.
When deciding which of the various resorts that offer all inclusive packages in Jamaica you will find that you have a number of different ones to select from. Below we take a look at just a couple of the resorts that are available.
Beaches Boscobel – One of the Sandals all inclusive resorts to be found in Jamaica and it suitable for couples and families. This resort offers a wide range of facilities that adults and children can enjoy. For the adults there is golf, tennis and volleyball and for the children they can spend time at the Kids Kamp.
Beaches Sandy Bar – Again another of the all inclusive resorts set up in Jamaica by the Sandals Travel Group. It offers an atmosphere that both couples and families will enjoy. As with all their resorts where children are allowed this one has plenty of activities to keep the children engaged and entertained so their parents can get time to themselves.
As you will soon discover a quick search on the internet for all inclusive resorts in Jamaica there are numerous ones to stay at for your next vacation. But before you go ahead and book one it is a good idea spending some time looking at and comparing each one so that you can find one that meets with your particular needs perfectly.
About the Author:
I am a frequent traveller and I have written some
free valuable travel-related reports so check it out. And with all the hype going on about the Global Resorts Network, please read my
objective report on the Global Resorts Network, and be properly informed.
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 31st, 2008
by Roc Selly
by Roc Selly
Travel Insurance today is affordable and reassuring but the traveler must take time to understand what they have purchased. It is liberating to know that, just in case you’re out of luck, most traumatic events while travelling can be remedied or assisted by the cover you purchase before you leave. This far outweighs the disappointment of wishing you had spent a little extra on travel insurance. The potential risks encountered when travelling or leaving home for a length of time with only a few bags to hold your previous belongings can be daunting especially when you are surrounded by strangers who do not speak your language!
And even more important than getting travel insurance is making sure that you purchase the correct policy and you understand exactly what is and is not covered in your policy. Do not hesitate to voice any queries and always read your policy wording carefully before purchasing your travel insurance. You will find countless reviews online sent in by holiday makers who have lost money because they either didn’t have insurance in the first place or neglected to familiarise themselves with the fine print on their policy meaning they thought they were covered in certain situations when in fact they weren’t.
When buying travel insurance remember that the policy wording can be very involved and specific and underwriters are quick to refuse payment should your policy not cover even a single aspect of your insurance claim unless you know to what extent you are covered, in which case your policy wording is your best asset.
Something that’s even more important than getting travel insurance is making sure that you purchase the correct policy and you understand exactly what is and is not covered in your policy. Do not hesitate to voice any queries and always read your policy wording carefully before purchasing your travel insurance. You will find countless reviews online sent in by holiday makers who have lost money because they either didn’t have insurance to start with or neglected to familiarise themselves with the fine print on their policy meaning they thought they were covered in certain situations when in fact they were not.
Travel Insurance today is affordable and reassuring but the traveler must take time to understand what they have purchased. Travellers are finally realising the importance of travel insurance and no longer just view it as a luxury.
About the Author:
Before you purchase your
cheap travel insurance online, have a look at our great value and reliable
travel insurance policies.
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 30th, 2008
by Lee Allen
by Lee Allen
1. Check your tire pressure. Tires that are under-inflated are “soft” and require more work – and more gas – in order to spin. Have your tires checked whenever you fill up, it doesn’t cost you anything.
2. Check tire alignment. Tires that aren’t in alignment make your engine work harder, which means burning more gas. Check your tires alignment every 6 to 9 months.
3. Brakes. Have your brakes checked and aligned, at least every six to nine months. Inefficient, or poorly aligned brakes make braking less efficient and reduce overall mileage.
4. Have your engine tuned. If your engine isn’t properly tuned, it runs less efficiently. Have your engine timing checked, and replace dirty or worn spark plugs.
5. Spend less time idling. You are getting no miles per gallon while you are idling. Although it takes more gas when you start your car, if you will be idling more than 30 seconds it is better to shut off your engine.
6. Change your driving habits. Over-accelerating, stop and go traffic, congestion, these all burn unnecessary gas. Do your effands at night when there is less traffic so you can get to and from your destination in less traffic.
There are many more ways to improve gas mileage. Visit sites like www.gasforlessmoney.com and start practicing some of these gas-saving tips. A gas mileage improvement of just 10% can translate into a $5-$10 savings at the pump!
About the Author:
Click to learn many more
ways to improve gas mileage at no cost!
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 30th, 2008
by Mary Swanson
by Mary Swanson
Is your family looking for a way to grow closer, learn more about each other, and gain a closer relationship with God? Have you been too busy to stop and even eat one meal together? A Christian family vacation or family camp may be the answer.
As a Christian family in today’s society you need a time and place to stop and just get to know each other. This is an affordable vacation yet one where everyone can have fun do great activities and eat their meals together as a family.
All you have to do is make the reservation. Your meals, activities and accommodations will all be taken care of for you. This will be one vacation where all you have to do is sit back and enjoy a relaxing time with your family.
These camps are far more affordable than the usual family vacation. Most include all your meals and rooming for one combined price. Except for just a few, most activities are also included. Your pickiest eater will be able to choose whatever they want from the buffet style meals.
These camps will schedule morning Bible studies and group discussions geared for individual age groups. This allows the afternoon free to take advantage of all the activities such as swimming, horseback riding, rafting, volleyball, softball and more. The parents could take some rest and relaxation time just for themselves while the kids are involved in one of the many activities.
Each Bible study is geared toward encouraging spiritual growth and giving families the tools to work and grow together as a strong Christian family.
This is a time to create family memories. Your children will be talking about this vacation for years and remembering that this was the pivotal moment in bringing your family together. How’s that for a fun family vacation?
These camps have hired mature young Christian adults that will become role models for your children. They have been chosen for their willing attitudes and love of kids. They all have the qualities you wish you could nurture in your children. Perhaps someday your child will return to be a camp counselor and serve others as well.
A Christian family vacation at a Christian family camp will be what you have been searching for in a vacation. All the activities, accommodations, staff, speakers, meals, etc. will help create the family vacation that you desire.
You will quickly find your family wanting to sign up year after year. As soon as you hop in your car to leave you will be marking off the days on your calendar until next year’s Christian family camp or vacation.
About the Author:
Get more info on the Christian lifestyle go to
Christian Counseling Debt as well as
Christian Family Vacations
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 30th, 2008
by John Q. Harris
by John Q. Harris
There is nothing like international travel to broaden the mind and fortunately it is now something that almost anyone can afford. You do not need not be rich to engage in traveling this way; a well-planned itinerary is as close as your computer keyboard plus you can find a good airfare if you plan ahead and travel in the of peak seasons, generally in fall and spring.
Even though many of the locations are cheapest in the winter, there are many places in Europe that have mild climates like Spain and Italy for example. When carrying out your online research, look for people that rent out their own apartments and homes perhaps for a shorter time which may mean it will be less expensive than through other specialist organizations.
Facilities are usually comparable to many American homes so the likes of laundry equipment, cooking and the internet should all be available. The benefits of a fully equipped kitchen mean that you can try some of the local ingredients in the meals you prepare which will also save some money if you prepare your own breakfast everyday.
With your own laundry facilities it is easy to keep your washing clean and if there is internet access you can send your friends e-cards which won’t cost anything. Experiencing a different culture is a great adventure and it’s the little things that really reach out and grab you; for example, Seeing and meeting people from other countries will open your mind to new ideas especially when you see things that you wish you had in your own country.
Food is a much more drawn out event than our eat-and-run habit as meals are enjoyed slowly, seasoned with the friendship of your companions plus it is actually quite safe to go out at night in any major European city. Why not head off the normal tourist routes an explore the local areas where you can find some wonderful shops, cafes and the local business where you be able to get a feel for how the local population run their everyday lives. When in a foreign country a real international traveler will make sure that national and local dishes are eaten in typical restaurants or taverns like Italian pizza or Greek Kleftiko. Part of the experience of international travel is getting around, so become adventurous as large cities, such as Paris, have inexpensive and ultra-efficient transport systems making it easy to go anywhere you want.
This of course means that to do this efficiently, it is good idea to carry everything you need for the trip in a carry on, which will make things simpler; no lost luggage or waiting around the luggage carousel at the airport. This of course means that to do this efficiently, it is good idea to carry everything you need for the trip in a carry on, which will make things simpler; no lost luggage or waiting around the luggage carousel at the airport. It just means that you have to carefully plan what you will need to take and what you can buy at your destination, like toiletries for instance, which means if you can’t fit it into the carry on, you can buy it later. Travel does not have to be about huge luggage filled suitcases as truly adventurous travelers know.
About the Author:
If you truly like to travel as much as I do, you’ll definitely want to buy some
travel posters to the locations you have already visited or have plans of traveling to. Simply having different
cultural world posters for sale will eventually inspire you to travel.
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 30th, 2008
by Alain Schuster
by Alain Schuster
When it comes to finding the best Hawaii all inclusive resorts it is important that one clearly understands just what “all inclusive resorts” means. Generally such resorts the price you pay covers the costs of not just your flights and accommodation, but all meals and drinks and activities that the resort has to offer. There are even some Hawaii all inclusive resorts that offer activities which will keep the kids amused as well.
Prior to booking any all inclusive Hawaii vacation package you need to take certain things into consideration. Below we offer a few useful pieces of advice that will help you to plan a vacation that is not only memorable but perfect as well. Also a vacation that will be more affordable.
The first thing you need to think about who is actually going on the vacation with you. If for example it is just you and your partner then going for one of the resorts where far less people go is ideal as this provides you with an opportunity to really relax and get pampered. However, if you are taking the whole family then you need to choose one that has plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy and which will keep them amused during their stay.
One of the ideal resorts for a couple to consider for their stay in Hawaii is one located on the island of Kauai. As for families there are plenty of wonderful all inclusive resorts to be found on the islands of Big Island, Maui and Oahu.
When it comes to planning the activity side of your vacation at these all inclusive resorts it is best if you book them as early as you possibly can. Certainly if you can pre-book them prior to actually leaving on your vacation else you may find that when you try to book them on a certain day you can’t participate as they have already been booked up.
Through booking your all inclusive vacation well in advance of your departure dates can actually help to save you money on it. Many times you will be given far better travel deals in relation to flights etc., because you book them months in advance of your departure date. Plus by booking well in advance you have more accommodation choices so getting what you really want becomes far easier.
Now you have decided which of the various different all inclusive resorts in Hawaii that you want to stay at for your next vacation you now have to start booking it. You have two choices when it comes to arranging your vacation, you can either get a travel agent to do all the legwork or you can do it all yourself. Doing your own bookings can end up saving you some money as remember a travel agent often charges a fee for making the arrangements for you.
Also it is very quick and simple to actually arrange your own Hawaii all inclusive resorts vacation. You simply have to go online and spend time looking at the various different packages that are available. Often you will find that you can get some really great deals which in the end causes you to save may be hundreds of dollars on your vacation. Plus there are a number of sites that now offer an interest free payment scheme that allows you to pay for your vacation prior to your departure dates.
About the Author:
I enjoy travelling and I have written some
free valuable travel-related reports so check it out. And with all the hype going on about the Global Resorts Network, please read my
objective report on the Global Resorts Network, and be properly informed.
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips
Posted July 30th, 2008
by Joseph Then
by Joseph Then
When was the last time you took a long break? How about a long holiday? Well, I know that I am in desperate need to take a break but I am quite broke for now. Well, if you are like me, look no further. I can tell you how to go backpacking and why you should go backpacking.
Firstly, we have to understand what backpacking is. Backpacking is a form of low-cost travel. In other words, backpacking is a way where you can travel around without using too much cash. But, you have to give up on luxuries like five star hotels and shopping.
If you are thinking of going backpacking but cannot find a friend at home who’ll come with you, why don’t you go on your own? Let me tell you why you should.
Trust me on this; you won’t be alone for long. Trust me a month of backpacking does not mean a month of loneliness. There are many other like minded people traveling the way you are.
From experience, I think that the easiest and most efficient way to make friends is by taking part in group activities like scuba diving or riding ATVs. If you are staying in a hostel, I am sure there are people around who travel in groups. Why don’t you just ask with a smile if you can join them?
Another reason to go backpacking is because you need to cut loose from your life. Traveling on your own lets you literally leave everything behind – work, family and friends.
Well if you are living behind your boy/girlfriend, here’s a tip that I can offer you. You should take a timeout before you leave. Well, if you are in a serious relationship the I suggest that you both should come out with ground rules when you are away.
Making the decision to travel solo is a great step, but it’s important to know what it is you actually want to do while traveling.
You should do some read ups and research before going on your journey. Having a limited amount of money can be difficult but if you learn how to manage your money well, you should be fine.
The next reason why you should go backpacking is because it helps you become comfortable dealing with the unfamiliar. Traveling is hard for the first few weeks because you are dealing with constantly unfamiliar situations and surroundings.
If you are thinking that you need more confidence while traveling, carry a guide book with you. It helps if the guide books contain phrases that are commonly used in a country in their language.
Some people go backpacking because they want to learn new things and experience a different lifestyle. Some go because they want to bring home a whole new perspective of life.
How? You should try to participate in as much activities as you can while you are in another country. And the last tip I can give you is that you should learn as much as you can about the culture of the people in the country.
Now that you are armed with this knowledge, I am sure you will be confident enough to set off into this learning experience on your own.
About the Author:
Backpacking can be a great experience, even if you go backpacking alone. Skip all the mistakes made by beginners by reading up a couple of
Backpacking Advices. Go to this website and find out more about backpacking ==>
http://www.backpackingtips.net
Tags: Travel Tips Posted in Travel Tips