What If You Lose Your Passport?

This information might be worth saving for future use if the unfortunate happens to you. This pertains to lost or damaged passports. Airports and cruise ports may deny you if there are any tears or imperfections. Please make sure your passport is available and in good condition before traveling (or booking your trip).

If you lose your passport before traveling, there are a few options. There are a few companies that will rush your passport to you for a fee. It varies depending on how quick you need it. You can also drive to one of the agencies and pick up it right away. Call ahead since you need to make an appointment. Chicago is the closest office to St Louis.

What happens if you are traveling? We always recommend taking a copy with you and also leave a copy with someone at home. This speeds up the process. You will need to contact the closest US consulate or embassy to report it. Identity theft is so common here and abroad. Find out the hours and visit them as soon as possible. There will be forms to complete so check out the website at travel.state.gov for more information. These agencies will do their best to assist you with a new passport or temporary one to get you home. Be sure to have any additional forms of identification and your itinerary. This is when a copy of your passport comes in handy.

http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/lost/lost_848.html

Cruising 101

Did you know that there are over 15 cruise lines to choose from? Not all cruise lines cater to everyone. We have cruise specialists on hand to help you pick the one best for your trip. Clients often tell us of bad experiences they had because they traveled during spring break with a ship full of kids. There are cruise lines that cater more to adults or affluent travelers while some offer extensive kid programs. Some ships have adult only pools, relaxing areas and restaurants.

There are many destinations being offered. Alaska cruises are only offered from May to September. Often it is difficult to find ships in the Caribbean during the summer months. Europe has become very popular and there is an increase in the number of ships sailing the Mediterranean. River cruises are gaining more interest as they offer a more in-depth look at culture and areas that the larger ships can't reach. Although they may seem more expensive, the fares may include alcoholic beverages and excursions. Some have bikes that you can take off ship to explore more of the countryside.

I recently read about someone booking a Transatlantic cruise because of the low price. They didn't realize that it only included 2 stops during the 10 day cruise. There are reasons prices tend to be low. Part of the problem with transatlantic cruises are the airfare can be costly when flying one way from Europe. Our agents can help you figure in all costs to see if it really is a deal.

Southwest Airlines - Hike in fees that you need to know

One of our preferred airlines is Southwest. They currently don't charge change fees or baggage fees which is unique to the industry. Early Bird is a great option for better seat selection since they have 'open' seating. The other airlines can charge steep fees for seat assignments. If you are a frequent traveler, please read the article for more details.

Southwest to Hike Fees, Impose No-Show Penalties

by Michèle McDonald

December 20, 2012

Southwest Airlines, which touts its “Bags Fly Free” policy, will charge $75 for third and additional checked bags, up from $50, beginning Feb. 13. It also will raise the overweight/oversized bag fee to $75, up from $50.

In addition, it will boost the EarlyBird check-in fee from $10 to $12.50. It also is planning to sell prime A1 to A15 boarding positions.

Southwest also raised the first checked-bag fee on its AirTran Airways subsidiary to $25, a $5 increase. It raised the second checked-bag fee by $10, to $35.

Soft launch in January
The new fees were disclosed during a Southwest Airlines investor day.

Robert E. Jordan, chief commercial officer and executive vice president, said code-share flights between Southwest and AirTran will have a “soft launch” in January. Passengers will be subject to the baggage policy of the carrier they book.

Southwest also will add a penalty fee for no-show passengers who do not cancel their flights.

“This should add ancillary revenue and promote customer behavior that allows us to resell the open seat prior to departure, so you have a double win there,” Jordan said. “We’re still working through the change. It’s complicated and we’re working to the timing very carefully. But I'll tell you this: We have made the decision to do it, and this change will roll out in 2013. I'm just not ready to give you the exact date.”

Jordan said the new fees combined will contribute an additional $100 million in 2013.

Universal Studios Orlando

Several of our agents have visited and enjoyed Universal Studios in Orlando. Based on feedback from agents and clients it isn't geared toward younger children as well as Disney. The rides, attractions and themes in general seem to appeal to the older kids. The new feature is Wizarding World of Harry Potter which has created alot of attention. A new attraction coming next summer is Transformers: The Ride 3D.

There are a few items to take notice of during your next visit. The express pass will get you ahead in line and can save you hours of waiting time for select rides. There is a limit unless you purchase the unlimited pass. For those staying at a participating Universal resort, you will receive the pass at no charge. If you are not staying on site, you can purchase one on the website. They are limited so we recommend purchasing in advance. Another recommendation is the meal deal that includes unlimited trips to the restaurants in the plan. There is a fine dining option if you want to enjoy some of the great restaurants offered. Character breakfasts are a hit with Harry Potter fans. They have a refillable mug that you can purchase once at the park. Let our agents help you with the details and selecting the right package for your next trip to Universal Studios!

Gift Certificates for the Holidays or Special Occasions

Can't think of the perfect gift for your spouse or parents because they seem to have everything? We offer gift certificates and can customize them to mark the occasion. Many of us appreciate time with our family more than anything. You can purchase gift certificates or plan a trip with the family. We are happy to help find the trip that suits your family needs best. Our clients love giving them for anniversaries, honeymoons and special birthday celebrations. Holiday travel books quickly but we are finding that many families, especially those with adult children and college kids are choosing vacation time over any Christmas gifts. We can present you with a certificate appropriately for giving in lieu of a standard gift that will out date in a few months. Often the holidays are more expensive but not always. The days before are the busiest but the actual day of the holiday can be a good deal. Call one of our agents today for more information! 636-625-8747.

Owner Profile - Harry Yeakey

Harry has been in the travel industry over 25 years. His expertise and knowledge has been an enormous asset to Classic Travel and Cruises. Harry is about to embark on his 54th cruise. He has cruised on several ships with many different cruise lines. The details that he remembers about each cruise and port are priceless. You will not get the specific information that he offers from any call center. Harry offers personalized and friendly service to his clients, agents and others in the industry. He is a true gem to everyone that knows him.

His favorite ships include Celebrity Equinox and favorite island is Bermuda. One of his most memorable destinations is the Mediterranean. Iberostar Rose Hall Suites is a preferred all inclusive resort that he has enjoyed. Places on his bucket list would be Santorini, Greece and Ephesus, Turkey.