Did you know that there have been a couple of significant developments and changes in travel recently? I thought I’d share a couple of them with you so you will be “in the know”.
First and probably most importantly,
Did you know The Houston Passport Agency closed for renovations on Monday September 23, 2013 and is not scheduled to re-open until early2014? How does this affect you? Hopefully, you will plan ahead and it won’t! All of the other passport acceptance agencies are still open and accepting applications and renewals as always. There could be a slight delay in processing as now one of the major processing offices is closed. They are not projecting huge delays, but in my opinion, that remains to be seen. (We also have a potential government shut down, or more possible furloughs on the horizon.) Please plan early and do not wait until the last minute to apply or renew your passport. Applicants in the greater Houston are that are in need of emergency passport services for immediate travel should schedule an appointment with the closest passport agencies located in Dallas, El Paso, and New Orleans. Appointments at passport agencies and passport information can also be obtained by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.
Did you know about the TSA Pre-Check Program? As stated on their website, “TSA Pre✓™ allows select frequent flyers of participating airlines and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler programs who are flying on participating airlines, to receive expedited screening benefits. Eligible participants use dedicated screening lanes for screening benefits which include leaving on shoes, light outerwear and belts, as well as leaving laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags.” This is available at select airports, and there are plans to expand the program as well. I can tell you that I personally LOVE this program! It has really expedited my airport travels. For more information, please visit: http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck
Did you know Southwest Airlines has begun enforcing their new no-show policy? As stated on their website: If you are not planning to travel on any portion of your itinerary, please cancel your reservation at least 10 minutes prior to scheduled departure of the flight. For tickets purchased on or after May 10, 2013, for travel beginning September 13, 2013, Customers who fail to cancel or change a Wanna Get Away or DING! fare segment at least 10 minutes prior to travel and who do not board the flight, will be considered a no show, and all remaining funds on this reservation will be forfeited, including Business Select and Anytime funds. For more information, please visit: http://www.southwest.com/html/air/fare-information.html
Did you know in early summer United Airlines started offering Economy Plus Subscriptions? The annual subscription starts at $499 per person and be purchased by the traveler or given as a gift. This subscription allows the passenger access to the coveted Economy Plus seating which has more leg room and is closer to front of the plane. There are some terms and conditions to be aware of so please check http://www.united.com/web/en-US/apps/products/subscriptions/economyPlus.aspx
The only thing consistent in the world of travel is change! Working with a travel professional will help insure that you are up to date and prepared to travel!
Kelley