Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Looking to travel?

As the years have passed the world has become much smaller. I remember the days when people dressed to go on an airliner, and it had propellers on the engines. To fly over the ocean was incredible, that was the domain of he liners, the United States, the France, the QE II. Remnants of a long forgotten age. The France became the Norway and is currently being cut up into scrap on a beach in the Indian Ocean. The United States is rusting in Philadelphia, I once saw her berthed in Tidewater. The QE II, the last remaining liner is about to become a hotel in Dubai.
There are two successors to this lineage, both Cunard Liners, the Queen Mary II and the Queen Victoria. Both of these have purpose built hulls to cross the North Atlantic, even in rough weather. This is in contrast to cruise ships that are built to ply gentle seas. These cities at sea can carry 1,000s of passengers to exotic ports around the world.
Unlike residents of other countries, United State residents usually do not have a valid passport. Crossing the border to Canada, Mexico or flying to the Caribbean until recently did not require one. Over the past few years, since September 11th, the rules have gradually changed, starting with air passengers requiring passports and slowly adding remaining with all people traveling will need a passport starting this summer. I have actually had a passport for aver 30 years.
With the economy in upheaval as the result of the housing bubble and credit crunch, there are a lot of empty airline seats and vacant hotel rooms. Air carriers are offering discounts to fill seats and hotels are slashing rates. The dollar has gained against the euro since a low from last summer. Maybe now is the time to hit the airport and see the land of your ancestors?
I have been to Italy three times where my maternal relations hail, and would move there if I could. la dulce vita. WOOF! to all those humpy Italian men. I have only been to England once which is the closest to my paternal family, they are from England, Ireland, and Scotland. Hopefully soon I will find out what they really wear under those kilts.
Damron Vacations can help with your travel plans. Whether a cruise close to home, or a European vacation, the agents can assist in making memories to last a lifetime. So, if you do not have a passport, now is the time to get one, and start the process before the summer rush.

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