Holidays Abroad

Since the popularity of the internet has soared over the last decade it has now become virtually impossible not to find what you are looking for. Whether you want to buy something from the other side of the world, contact people you haven’t seen in years or get advice on anything from business travel to health problems, chances are that there is a website, blog, forum or article that will contain all the information you need.

Travel is by far one of the most common topics that you will find discussed over the internet. Whether its reviews of hotels and resorts, someone’s travel blog or travel agents offering advice about business travel, there are thousands of sites out there that make it so easy to find what you’re looking for.

The increasing number of cheap flights means that business travel is easier than ever and more and more companies are sending their employees abroad to meet customers in person. Whilst this is a great opportunity to see more of the world and learn new things, business travel can at times be stressful and lonely.

Fortunately there are various business travel blogs on the internet that offer all kinds of advice from what to do if you’re scared of flying to how to survive the stress of airports. These blogs can be very helpful especially if you are new to business travel and are looking for tips on how to get the most out of it.

Travel blogs are popular with millions of travellers all over the world because they are they best way to find out information about a country or hotel. Any company with a website is obviously trying to promote their business and therefore isn’t going to say anything negative about themselves. However, blogs are written by real people who want to share their experiences with others. Listening to what people have to say about a particular country, hotel or resort is likely to give you a more realistic portrayal of what somewhere is like because they aren’t biased about wherever they stayed.

Another good thing about business travel blogs is the fact that you can easily talk to other business travellers through forums or by commenting on articles. This is an ideal way to find out where is good, where is bad and what others recommend. As well as this they will be able to give you advice about how to get the most out of your trip and recommend places to go if you have any free time whilst on your trip.  

Although business travel is a great way of making any job more exciting whilst being able to see the world at the same time, there are certain aspects of it that can be stressful and frustrating. Airports are probably the main culprit of this as delayed or cancelled flights, lost baggage and long queues can turn any trip abroad into a complete nightmare.

However, those who regularly embark on business travel have learnt all the tricks of the trade and can usually get in and out of airports with no problems whatsoever. Obviously there are certain problems you can’t do anything about no matter how much of an expert you are, but there are things you can do to ensure that your time spent in airports is more enjoyable.

Thanks to recent advances in technology travellers are now allowed to check – in online. This means that you don’t have to stand in a long queue for ages and can check – in for your flight from the comfort of your own home. Not only does this save time and aggravation, but it also means that it is one less thing to worry about when you get to the airport. You don’t even need to be on business travel to use this facility as everyone can check – in online regardless if they’re going away for business or pleasure.

The most important thing to remember when going away on business travel is to allow yourself plenty of time when you get to the airport. If you are running around and short on time you are going to be very stressed out and even the smallest queues will frustrate you. However, if you allow yourself plenty of time it means that you can stay relaxed and even go for a drink or do some shopping before your flight leaves.

Those on business travel can go to the airline’s business or first class lounge where they can get some peace and quiet and food and drinks. These lounges are a lot quieter than the rest of the airport as there are only a few people in them so there is a much more relaxed environment. This is perfect if you get stressed out by busy airports.

Nowadays there is so much to do at airport from eating, drinking, coffee shops, shopping and much more. All of these things can help to make business travel a lot more enjoyable as you don’t have to just sit around being bored while you wait for your flight.

The opening of Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport has filled hundreds of inches of column space in all the top newspapers, been top news bulletins on the evening news and been the talk of the town ever since it opened last month. Long delays, missing baggage and flight cancellations have all contributed to the chaos surrounding the airport at the moment.

It seems no – one can escape the mayhem at Terminal 5 regardless of whether you are off on holiday, are on business travel or even if you are an international supermodel. Naomi Campbell was arrested at Heathrow airport on suspicion of assaulting a police officer after she had an argument with BA staff over her luggage.

The incident is said to have happened after the model was taken off her flight due to her temper with airline staff. Witnesses say that she tried to take too many bags on board with her because she was concerned about the current luggage problems that BA is facing. She did not want to put her belongings into the hold in case they went missing and argued her point until officers had to come onboard and handcuff and remove her from the flight.

A range of people saw the incident take place from those on business travel to those who were trying to enjoy the beginning of their holiday. People who saw the disagreement take place say that Miss Campbell was aggressive towards the police officer who was trying to escort her off the plane and same people even claim that she spat at the officer. Once the situation had calmed down she was taken to Heathrow Airport’s police station where she was questioned about the incident.

Few people will be surprised about the news of the model’s behaviour as she is regularly in the news because of her temper. As recently as last September, she was seen openly swearing at airport staff because they would not let her board a flight when she arrived just 11 minutes before take – off.

Thousands of travellers have been affected by the problems that the opening of Heathrow’s Terminal 5 has brought regardless of whether they are going on holiday or are on business travel. Obviously this means that temper levels are high amongst staff and passengers as it is a very stressful situation. However, British Airways emphasise that they do not tolerate the kind of behaviour that Naomi Campbell displayed on the flight and have since barred her from flying with the airline ever again.  

Heathrow’s new Terminal 5 building has caused controversy since the plans to build it were first announced. It stirred mixed emotions with environmentalists and local residents who are against the increased noise, pollution and traffic that it is going to bring. However, others, especially those who participate in a lot of business travel every year, feel that an extra terminal building is a wise move on behalf of British Airways. The reason for this is because it is hoped that the extension will help to ease the pressure of the increasing number of travellers passing through Heathrow Airport every year.

Since Heathrow Terminal 5 opened on March 27 2008 British Airways have faced nothing but problems and criticism from holiday makers and those on business travel. Whilst it is clear that the airport is simply experiencing teething problems with its new addition, a lot of travellers have been left feeling angry.

One of the main problems has been with the baggage handling systems which has meant that luggage has had to be sorted manually. Not only did this entail long delays for those trying to check in but it also resulted in hundreds of people losing their luggage. No doubt this got holiday makers’ journey off to an upsetting staff and created major problems for those on business travel. However, BAA took full responsibility for the loss of anyone luggage and did everything possible to try and rectify the problem so that the airline could start to function as normal again.

The problems that Heathrow Terminal 5 had with their baggage systems resulted in dozens of flights being cancelled as well. It is thought that one of the main causes of all the problems the new terminal has faced is due to staff confusion. Many of the staff were unfamiliar with the building and systems they were using which no doubt added to the delays and inaccuracies that occurred.

Just when BAA thought that there couldn’t be any more problems for Heathrow Terminal 5, the recent snow led to more than 100 flights being cancelled. This affected travel plans for holiday makers and those on business travel who were left feeling stressed, upset and stranded. Although the bad weather is out of the control of anyone and flights were affected throughout the whole of Europe, this was hassle that staff could have done without after an already stressful week.

Although Heathrow is facing many problems regarding the opening of Terminal 5 they hope to have everything up and running as planned very shortly. This means that holiday makers and those on business travel can continue with their journeys quickly and stress free.

Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year for the travel industry. Whether its people going on holiday to make the festive period even more special or its friends and family travelling to see each other, chances are everyone travels at some point over Christmas.  Whatever your chosen method of transportation is here is some travel advice that will help you avoid the Christmas rush and get to your destination stress free.  

Train – If you are travelling by train it is strongly advisable to buy your tickets and book your seats as soon as possible. Thousands of seats have already been reserved on many services which means that you may not get a seat if you buy your ticket on the day. If you have a long journey or are travelling with children, standing for the duration of the journey is highly inconvenient and will make your journey a lot more stressful than it needs to be. Reserving your seats early ensures that you will have a comfortable and relaxing journey to wherever you are going. It is also wise to check if and when services are operating so you don’t end up stranded somewhere. There aren’t usually any services on Christmas Day and Boxing Day and there are limited timetables up until New Year. If you look on the website of the train company you are using you will be able to find travel advice and timetables for the Christmas period. 

Car – There are going to be thousands of cars on the road leading up to Christmas as people will be travelling to see friends and family. In order to miss the traffic it is advisable to leave as early as possible so you miss the rush. Keep the radio on so you can listen out for regular traffic updates and travel advice so you know where to avoid and if possible avoid motorways that you know are going to be particularly busy. 

Aeroplane – Aeroplane travel is more expensive over the Christmas period as children are on school holidays and it is an extremely popular time to travel. Seats sell fast and although flights are updated and added on a daily basis it is wise to book early as the later you leave it the more expensive it will be. Ensure that you leave yourself plenty of time to get to the airport as there is going to be more traffic on the roads than usual. Also make sure that you have plenty of time to check in at the airport as queues are going to be longer than usual. Checking in online is very advisable at this time of year as it means that you won’t have to queue at all which can save a lot of time. Some travel advice for when you are flying is to take travel pillows and anything else that is going to help you get comfortable on the plane because chances of there being any empty seats to stretch out on are extremely unlikely.  

Ferry – Just like most other methods of transport ferry prices increase over Christmas. As well as this it will be very busy so if you don’t like queuing take drinks and snacks with you so you don’t have to wait a long time to get something to eat. Again, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance so you can guarantee that you will get on the ferry you want. The key to successful travel over the festive period is to be prepared, plan in advance and seek lots of travel advice. If you do this then there is no reason why you shouldn’t have an easy and stress – free journey.   
Technorati Profile

Regular business travellers will more than likely be familiar with the Sofitel hotel brand which can be found in various countries all over the world. In a bid to keep up with the increasing amount of competition from new hotels, Sofitel hotel has announced plans that they are going to split their current name into two sister brands. It is hoped that by doing this they will be able to target niche segments in the luxury brand market.  

The Sofitel hotel network is being completely reviewed through a robust programme in order to reshape their current network and upgrade each of their hotels through extensive renovation and refurbishment. They have launched new development programmes in North America, Europe, Russia, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia in a bid to try into break into their markets.  

By 2010 they hope to have a network of over 100 businesses and resort hotels in prime locations. Around seven Sofitel hotels will become Sofitel Legend properties over the next two years. Amongst the first will be the Grand in Amsterdam and the Hua Hin resort in Thailand.   

The first new brand is set to be called Sofitel Legend which will be a collection of unique legendary properties with exclusive services. This will no doubt attract the top end of the market who enjoy being in the most luxurious surroundings.   

The second will be So by Sofitel which will be an edgy and stylish offer dedicated to a new generation of guests. Whilst this chain will still offer top class accommodation it is likely to attract those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere but still want classy surroundings.  

All passengers who fly from Heathrow and Gatwick Airport have been advised to make themselves familiar with new check in times that have been introduced at the airports. On the 28^th October 2007 British Airways introduced a new minimum check – in time of 45 minutes to help make passengers’ journeys through the airports quicker and easier. 

There are many reasons as to why British Airways have introduced this new system but it is mainly to benefit their customers. Having a consistent check – in time ensures that travellers always know how much time they should allow themselves to go through this process.    

All passengers should be aware of the fact that all British Airways and Great Britain airport check – in desks, kiosks and bag drop desks at Heathrow and Gatwick Airport will close 45 minutes before the flight is scheduled to depart. However, online check – in is not affected and will continue to close 60 minutes before departure. Check – in times for flights from all other airports both in the UK and around the world remain unchanged.

Hand luggage restrictions are constantly changing at airports across the UK so it can be hard to keep up with what you are and aren’t allowed to take on with you. Whereas the rules are pretty standard across all UK airports it is advisable to double check before flying because it can vary depending on your destination.  

• As of the 14^th November 2007 hand luggage restrictions were loosened as the one bag rule was lifted. However, this doesn’t mean that all airports have honoured this and some may still enforce that you can only carry one bag so again, it is wise to check before leaving for the airport.
• There are still hand luggage restrictions regarding travelling with liquids, creams, gels, pastes and aerosols. You are only allowed to take liquids in containers holding no more than 100 ml on board with you and they must be carried separately in a transparent, re – sealable plastic bag. There are a few exceptions to the rule including baby food or milk and medicines. However you may be asked for a doctor’s note to prove you need the medication for the flight so make sure you bring one with you.
• Sharp or pointed items are strictly prohibited in hand luggage and will be confiscated at security control no matter what you need them for. Some of the more obvious things include knives, scissors and hypodermic needles unless required for medical reasons. However, some people don’t realise that things such as razor blades and certain toys will be confiscated if it is thought that they could cause harm.
• Other hand luggage restrictions include no Christmas crackers, party poppers and non – safety matches. One cigarette lighter per person may be carried but any more will be taken away.
• Many people are confused about how the hand luggage restrictions affect what you can buy at the airport. Once you have gone through security control anything you buy can be taken on board including alcohol, fragrances and cosmetics in sizes over 100 ml.  

Recent news that the Government is to back plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport has caused much debate between airline and environmental groups. A new runway would also mean the introduction of a sixth terminal to help cope with passenger numbers. It is thought that the runway will be in place by 2020 if everything goes according to plan. Some people are in favour of the new extension whereas others are going to do everything possible to prevent it from being built. In order to help you make a decision here is some information from both sides of the argument. 

For

The introduction of a third runway will bring £5 billion worth of economic benefit to the UK even after taking account of climate change and noise costs. Heathrow Airport provides 170,000 jobs, billions of pounds of British exports and is the UK’s main gateway to the global economy. With so many benefits when only using two runways, the possibilities could be endless with the introduction of a third.  

It will help the airport to run more effectively as it will be easier to cope with ever increasing passenger numbers. At the moment Heathrow Airport is always full and relies on only two runways which can lead to delays and congestion. Not only does more space mean more flights and less delays, it means that more flight destinations can be introduced.  

The airport has been running at nearly full capacity for so long that minor problems are leading to major delays which angers travellers from all over the world. This means that Heathrow’s status as a world class airport will diminish over time which means that jobs will be lost and the economy will suffer. Another problem this will cause is that London and the UK’s nations and regions are reliant on the good international connections that the Heathrow Hub provides which could be destroyed if things continue as they are.  

All those involved with building the new runway are well aware of the environmental impacts and will work hard to keep them as low as possible. The chief executive of British Airways has said that the runway can be developed without increasing carbon emissions and the Stern Report on climate change has revealed that economic growth can be pursued hand - in – hand with measures to cut emissions.  

Against

As there is already limited space around Heathrow Airport this means that space is going to have to be created so that the new runway can be built. This is going to result in people who live in Harmondsworth, Sipson and Harlington losing their homes and there is every possibility that whole communities may be wiped out including ancient buildings. People who have been living in these areas all their lives may not want to move but will feel pressured to sell up and may not end up having a choice in the matter at all. There are currently 473,000 planes using Heathrow Airport but this is set to rise to 700,000 a year upon completion of the new extension. There is no doubt that this is going to have an effect on the environment with more carbon emissions being released from aeroplanes and more people driving to and from the airport.

As well as this new transportation links from trains and busses are going to be installed which again means that Heathrow is going to be inflicting more pollution on the environment. 

People who live near Heathrow Airport are already finding it hard to cope with the noise levels with aeroplanes taking off and landing every 90 seconds. This is set to increase after the introduction of a third runway which means that the noise is going to become even more unbearable for local residents. Although aircraft are now quieter than they were a few decades ago the fact that there are now so many of them taking off and landing every day makes the noise just as unbearable as it was before. 

So what do you think about the introduction of a third runway and sixth terminal at Heathrow Airport? Maybe you are a local resident and are campaigning against the building work or maybe you are a regular business traveller who is welcoming the extension. Whoever you are and whatever you think let us know.