On my first flight working to Japan, I was struck by two things about Japanese people. They are incredibly polite and their hotel service is unbelievable.
The manners I witnessed on the airplane were impeccable. As a flight attendant, you come across a variety of people from nasty to polite. Up until that flight, I had never experienced a flight in which every single passenger was well behaved and polite. Whether they received their first or last food choice, they were gracious and never complained. I was most impressed though with the way they neatly organized the food trays when they were finished eating. It looked like the original tray without the food, the dirty napkins folded, the silver ware placed back in the packaging, and the trays clean as a whistle. I later found out it is customary for Japanese to do this.
I was further amazed when I got to my layover hotel, the Marriott . The customer service was out of this world. You would have thought it was the Ritz Carlton for the service they provided. Walking into this hotel, they made you feel like a queen walking into a palace. All of the employees near the entrance bow down to you. As you continue walking through the hotel, the bowing of every employee continues. At one point during my stay, I asked a question to the concierge, in which she did not know the answer. I was stunned however, when she ran and I mean literally, to find someone that did. This was something I saw numerous times over my two day stay. I have never seen anything like this.
Visiting Japan and their culture is an amazing experience. I must warn you though, if you plan on traveling there be prepared to come home to Americans that may seem rude in comparison.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Top Five Reasons to Visit Italy
Italy is my favorite country in Europe to visit. If your going to Europe, Italy is a must. Here are my top five reasons to travel there.
1.) Rome
A trip to Italy is not complete until you have visited Rome. When you go to Rome, it feels like you have traveled back in time. Visiting the Coliseum is a perfect example. You can almost see the gladiators fighting in the enormous arena, like they had many years ago. The forums are another attraction to see that is historical. There you can see the forum of Caesar, as well as other forums that are fascinating. The pantheon is equally as impressive with beautiful architecture, sculptures, and statues. One of the things I love about Rome is all the beautiful fountains. The Trevi fountain is very popular and gorgeous at night. You do not need to be Catholic to enjoy the Vatican where the Sistine Chapel and St. Peters Basilica is. The art work is unbelievable, and it is also the largest catholic church in the world.
2.) The Food
Food in Italy is delicious. I have never had a bad meal there. When you go to a restaurant for dinner I can guarantee you will not leave hungry, they will feed you until you pop. Pizza, pasta, tomatoes and mozzarella, it is all excellent. Do not get me started on their gelato ice cream. You could eat that the whole time and be satisfied.
3) The Beverages
Save room after meals for a famous Italian coffee or cappuccino with some tiramisu and you will be in heaven. Wine is also excellent. The best and cheapest wine is their house wine at restaurants. Don't waste your money on something fancy because the house wine truly tastes great. The beer, Italian sodas and mineral waters are excellent as well.
4.) The People
Italians are fun, loving people who are passionate about everything they do. You can have a great time just people watching in Italy. They like to dress nice, always seem to be eating or drinking something (and still look thin), and watching them talk in Italian is a kick. The way they speak is very dramatic.
5.) Venice
A fabulous, unique city surrounded by water. Where else can you get serenaded on a gondola ride down the grand canal. It is the most romantic city in the world. They say the city is slowly sinking. You do not want to miss this one of a kind place.
1.) Rome
A trip to Italy is not complete until you have visited Rome. When you go to Rome, it feels like you have traveled back in time. Visiting the Coliseum is a perfect example. You can almost see the gladiators fighting in the enormous arena, like they had many years ago. The forums are another attraction to see that is historical. There you can see the forum of Caesar, as well as other forums that are fascinating. The pantheon is equally as impressive with beautiful architecture, sculptures, and statues. One of the things I love about Rome is all the beautiful fountains. The Trevi fountain is very popular and gorgeous at night. You do not need to be Catholic to enjoy the Vatican where the Sistine Chapel and St. Peters Basilica is. The art work is unbelievable, and it is also the largest catholic church in the world.
2.) The Food
Food in Italy is delicious. I have never had a bad meal there. When you go to a restaurant for dinner I can guarantee you will not leave hungry, they will feed you until you pop. Pizza, pasta, tomatoes and mozzarella, it is all excellent. Do not get me started on their gelato ice cream. You could eat that the whole time and be satisfied.
3) The Beverages
Save room after meals for a famous Italian coffee or cappuccino with some tiramisu and you will be in heaven. Wine is also excellent. The best and cheapest wine is their house wine at restaurants. Don't waste your money on something fancy because the house wine truly tastes great. The beer, Italian sodas and mineral waters are excellent as well.
4.) The People
Italians are fun, loving people who are passionate about everything they do. You can have a great time just people watching in Italy. They like to dress nice, always seem to be eating or drinking something (and still look thin), and watching them talk in Italian is a kick. The way they speak is very dramatic.
5.) Venice
A fabulous, unique city surrounded by water. Where else can you get serenaded on a gondola ride down the grand canal. It is the most romantic city in the world. They say the city is slowly sinking. You do not want to miss this one of a kind place.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Why I do not recommend London.
Planning a trip to London? You might want to reconsider. I went to London this past summer and wished I had not. People warned me that the city was expensive but I did not listen. I convinced myself I could do it on a budget and it would be worth it. The three reasons I would not go back are price, food, and weather.
Most cities in Europe are expensive but London takes the cake. I stayed in a small budget hotel that was a supposed steal by Londons standard, $200.00 a night. I know hotel rooms are small in Europe but this one was microscopic. You walked into the room, maybe two feet and hit the bed. Within the two feet was your area for your suit case. The bathroom was an exact replica of an R.V. bathroom, including the smell. In addition, you will spend a pretty penny on tourist activities. For example, the double decker city bus tour charges twice as much as the same bus tour in Paris. Also, if you need to catch an early flight out of Heathrow you will have to take a taxi, as I did, at close to $100.00. The reason being, the underground does not run early in the morning.
Besides the food being outrageous, it ranks bottom on my list for taste. Even the fish and chips which they are known for, was awful. It could be due to the fact that I was trying to save money, but I did not have one good meal there. I gave up and decided one night to try McDonald's. I was tired of spending money on terrible food. Of course, that was worse.
The weather in London is often dreary and wet. The whole time I was there, it rained. If you are lucky enough to have blue skies, the city will look beautiful. I still thought the city was amazing looking through the rain, but nice weather would have helped. The problem is there are few fair weather days in London.
Think carefully before going to London because you can travel to better places in Europe for less money. I spent four days there and figured later that I could have spent eight days in Italy for the same price. Only in Italy the food and weather would have been better.
Most cities in Europe are expensive but London takes the cake. I stayed in a small budget hotel that was a supposed steal by Londons standard, $200.00 a night. I know hotel rooms are small in Europe but this one was microscopic. You walked into the room, maybe two feet and hit the bed. Within the two feet was your area for your suit case. The bathroom was an exact replica of an R.V. bathroom, including the smell. In addition, you will spend a pretty penny on tourist activities. For example, the double decker city bus tour charges twice as much as the same bus tour in Paris. Also, if you need to catch an early flight out of Heathrow you will have to take a taxi, as I did, at close to $100.00. The reason being, the underground does not run early in the morning.
Besides the food being outrageous, it ranks bottom on my list for taste. Even the fish and chips which they are known for, was awful. It could be due to the fact that I was trying to save money, but I did not have one good meal there. I gave up and decided one night to try McDonald's. I was tired of spending money on terrible food. Of course, that was worse.
The weather in London is often dreary and wet. The whole time I was there, it rained. If you are lucky enough to have blue skies, the city will look beautiful. I still thought the city was amazing looking through the rain, but nice weather would have helped. The problem is there are few fair weather days in London.
Think carefully before going to London because you can travel to better places in Europe for less money. I spent four days there and figured later that I could have spent eight days in Italy for the same price. Only in Italy the food and weather would have been better.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
How to have a Successful Flight with Children.
Traveling on a airplane with children is not easy, in fact it can be a parents worst nightmare. I am a flight attendant and mother of three that has seen many disastrous flights with families. I have had my fair share as well. I think the biggest mistake that I and many others make is not being prepared before the flight. The key to sanity on an airplane is having enough food, toys, and entertainment.
Many flights these days do not have more than pretzels or peanuts on the plane. Depending on the length of the flight, you may have an option to purchase a meal. I must warn you though, the kids meals we offer are mostly junk. The last thing you want to do is fill your child up with sugar and then expect them to sit in their seat for five hours. Remembering to bring plenty of food is key, especially healthy food.
Bringing a number of different toys and books will also help. Crayons and coloring books are always a hit and kids love to make the pilots and flight attendants pictures. Reading them stories will help pass the time as well. What ever you do, do not just bring one toy. An assortment will help when they get bored. I had this family on my flight years ago that brought one toy for the whole flight. A small metal fire truck for their two year old. The toy kept him busy for maybe twenty minutes and then he threw it at another passenger. It hit the passenger in the head. Needless to say we had an angry passenger, a two year old that acted out the rest of the flight and embarrassed parents.
The last thing I recommend is to bring your own DVD player and movies. On the longer flights, most planes will show a movie or TV show but they are not always appropriate for children. The airline that I work for sometimes shows movies with violence or shows with sexual content. Little kids do not like them and parents complain about them. The best solution is to bring your own because the airlines do not cater to children but adults.
Many flights these days do not have more than pretzels or peanuts on the plane. Depending on the length of the flight, you may have an option to purchase a meal. I must warn you though, the kids meals we offer are mostly junk. The last thing you want to do is fill your child up with sugar and then expect them to sit in their seat for five hours. Remembering to bring plenty of food is key, especially healthy food.
Bringing a number of different toys and books will also help. Crayons and coloring books are always a hit and kids love to make the pilots and flight attendants pictures. Reading them stories will help pass the time as well. What ever you do, do not just bring one toy. An assortment will help when they get bored. I had this family on my flight years ago that brought one toy for the whole flight. A small metal fire truck for their two year old. The toy kept him busy for maybe twenty minutes and then he threw it at another passenger. It hit the passenger in the head. Needless to say we had an angry passenger, a two year old that acted out the rest of the flight and embarrassed parents.
The last thing I recommend is to bring your own DVD player and movies. On the longer flights, most planes will show a movie or TV show but they are not always appropriate for children. The airline that I work for sometimes shows movies with violence or shows with sexual content. Little kids do not like them and parents complain about them. The best solution is to bring your own because the airlines do not cater to children but adults.
Advice to Americans when traveling to Europe.
While I was reading Rick Steves blog http://www.ricksteves.com/news/blog/blog10.htm called "Steves' pet peeves in Europe", I started thinking about some of his complaints. One of them was loud Americans oblivious to ruining the peaceful setting in a restaurant or public place in Europe. Do you think Americans deserve the bad reputation they have in Europe? We have been called many names but the three that come to mind are obnoxious, rude, and arrogant. I never understood why Americans were looked down upon until I experienced it on my first trip to Europe. There are three things you can do so you do not fall into the trap of the stereo typical ugly American tourist.
The first is to dress appropriately. In Europe people do not dress sloppy. I remember being in Paris and picking out many of the Americans by their clothing. This one man in particular stood out like a sore thumb. He had on a cowboy hat, an old t-shirt that said "I love Texas", awful looking plaid shorts, bright white tennis shoes and three quarter length white socks. I also saw many dressed perfect for Hawaii or another tropical beach location, but not for a European city. You need to remember if you would like to see some of the churches and museums, they have dress codes. No shorts or tank tops. You do not have to dress fancy, but think more along the lines of business casual. I know it gets hot in the summer, but if you want to blend in bring light clothes that are not too casual.
Second, do not assume everyone speaks english or wants to speak english. Try to learn at least a few important words like please and thank you in their language. I have seen Americans actually get upset if the Europeans did not understand them. We are visiting their country, we should at t be respectful if they can not speak english. I have found if you try to talk in their language, even if it is not good, they appreciate that and will help you. On the flip side to this, be careful that you do not talk about someone you perceive does not speak english in front of them. I have witnessed this happening and it is extremely embarrassing. You would think that is obvious but people do it.
The last thing to remember is your manners. To me this is simple but to some, they go to Europe and their manners go out the window. Americans can be loud, inflexible and complain too much. If you have decided to visit another country, you need to be open minded to the different customs and ways people live. Europe is not going to have the exact amenities of the United States, but that is part of the beauty of traveling there. Exploring the different countries people, food, and traditions, makes the trip memorable.
The first is to dress appropriately. In Europe people do not dress sloppy. I remember being in Paris and picking out many of the Americans by their clothing. This one man in particular stood out like a sore thumb. He had on a cowboy hat, an old t-shirt that said "I love Texas", awful looking plaid shorts, bright white tennis shoes and three quarter length white socks. I also saw many dressed perfect for Hawaii or another tropical beach location, but not for a European city. You need to remember if you would like to see some of the churches and museums, they have dress codes. No shorts or tank tops. You do not have to dress fancy, but think more along the lines of business casual. I know it gets hot in the summer, but if you want to blend in bring light clothes that are not too casual.
Second, do not assume everyone speaks english or wants to speak english. Try to learn at least a few important words like please and thank you in their language. I have seen Americans actually get upset if the Europeans did not understand them. We are visiting their country, we should at t be respectful if they can not speak english. I have found if you try to talk in their language, even if it is not good, they appreciate that and will help you. On the flip side to this, be careful that you do not talk about someone you perceive does not speak english in front of them. I have witnessed this happening and it is extremely embarrassing. You would think that is obvious but people do it.
The last thing to remember is your manners. To me this is simple but to some, they go to Europe and their manners go out the window. Americans can be loud, inflexible and complain too much. If you have decided to visit another country, you need to be open minded to the different customs and ways people live. Europe is not going to have the exact amenities of the United States, but that is part of the beauty of traveling there. Exploring the different countries people, food, and traditions, makes the trip memorable.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Why do Californians vacation in Hawaii when Mexico is closer and cheaper?
If you live in California, Mexico is a great place to vacation. There is no need to go to Hawaii when you have Mexico so close. Don't get me wrong, Hawaii is beautiful but it can be expensive and the flight is longer. Did you know that Cabo San Lucas is only two and a half hours from SFO airport and Puerto Vallarta three and a half hours. It will take you five hours to fly to Hawaii.
I think you will find very similar things to do in Mexico compared with Hawaii, especially the water activities. Mexico offers good snorkeling, whale watching, surfing, and fishing. Having just returned from a trip to Puerto Vallarta, I can tell you the whale watching was fabulous. We were able to rent a small boat and guide for $12.00 a person. The humpbacks are currently there and they preformed quite a show for us. The best part though was the price, you can not beat that for what we saw. Surfing is also excellent and for $15.00 a day you can find areas for beginners to advanced. Mexico is famous for fishing. It will not be cheap but for around $100.00, you will be able to rent a guide and boat for at least 4 people, for half day. However, I think it is still more inexpensive than fishing in Hawaii. Snorkeling is the one area I feel Hawaii is superior to but, Mexico is still decent and will be reasonable.
I have found flying to Mexico to be much cheaper than Hawaii and there are a variety of airlines that will take you there. When it comes to hotels, you will have every choice imaginable. From the budget to the luxury, there is a hotel that will fit your need. I like the all inclusive hotels if you have a family. It includes everything from your drinks and meals to many activities and tips. You can find a nice one in the off season for around $70.00 a day. It is a great deal with children.
I have been to Mexico and Hawaii many times and truly believe Mexico is just as good. If you are worried about getting sick from the food or water, don't be. They have improved tremendously in that area and it has been years since me or my family members got sick. Give Mexico a shot the next time your thinking about Hawaii, you will enjoy the savings and the country.
I think you will find very similar things to do in Mexico compared with Hawaii, especially the water activities. Mexico offers good snorkeling, whale watching, surfing, and fishing. Having just returned from a trip to Puerto Vallarta, I can tell you the whale watching was fabulous. We were able to rent a small boat and guide for $12.00 a person. The humpbacks are currently there and they preformed quite a show for us. The best part though was the price, you can not beat that for what we saw. Surfing is also excellent and for $15.00 a day you can find areas for beginners to advanced. Mexico is famous for fishing. It will not be cheap but for around $100.00, you will be able to rent a guide and boat for at least 4 people, for half day. However, I think it is still more inexpensive than fishing in Hawaii. Snorkeling is the one area I feel Hawaii is superior to but, Mexico is still decent and will be reasonable.
I have found flying to Mexico to be much cheaper than Hawaii and there are a variety of airlines that will take you there. When it comes to hotels, you will have every choice imaginable. From the budget to the luxury, there is a hotel that will fit your need. I like the all inclusive hotels if you have a family. It includes everything from your drinks and meals to many activities and tips. You can find a nice one in the off season for around $70.00 a day. It is a great deal with children.
I have been to Mexico and Hawaii many times and truly believe Mexico is just as good. If you are worried about getting sick from the food or water, don't be. They have improved tremendously in that area and it has been years since me or my family members got sick. Give Mexico a shot the next time your thinking about Hawaii, you will enjoy the savings and the country.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
How to pack light for a trip.
I have packed a suitcase more times than I would like to count. You learn quickly how to pack efficiently when your a flight attendant. The last thing I want is to lug around extra weight when I am working a five day trip. I think I have finally mastered packing and it is one of the most valuable tools I have learned from my job. I will be sharing with you how I pack for vacation.
How much clothing should you bring on a trip? How ever many days you will be gone, cut them in half and bring for that many days. For example, if you will be on vacation for two weeks, bring enough for one week. Bring clothes that you can mix and match with and you will not have to wear the same outfit twice. Try to stay away from bringing too many shoes. This is one area people tend to over pack in, especially women. For most trips, two pairs are usually sufficient. One for walking and one for dinners and night life. If you wear one of the pairs, you will only have to pack one which will save you room in your bag.
Packing light for a summer vacation is always easier than a winter trip. Summer is a great time to go somewhere because you can get away with a light suitcase. Shorts and t-shirts hardly take up any room in your bag. For women throw in a couple of sundresses with your day clothes and your complete for night and day wear. Sundresses fold nicely and will not fill your suitcase up. Men only need a couple of nice shirts for dinner and maybe one pair of light pants in addition to the shorts and t-shirts. One sweater or light jacket is plenty for the summer. Bathing suits seems to be another item people over pack. Probably because they are small and people do not think they will take up much room. However, you will not need more than two so why not save the room.
Winter trips call for you to be more savvy when packing. Clothes for cold weather are bulky, but if you get creative you can pack light. There is a couple of things you can do to help. One, wear your heavy coat instead of packing it. You will notice more room immediately if you take that out of your bag. Two leave your heavy sweaters at home and bring your thin long sleeve thermal style shirts. Layer your clothing and you will be just as warm as you would be in your sweaters.
Do you really need all the extras? Leave your blow dryers, irons, and beach/pool towels at home. Most hotels have these items and they are not necessary. Ladies, be careful with bringing too many purses and jewelry. I have seen women fill large areas in their suitcases with these items. One purse is plenty and a couple of pieces of jewelry that are versatile will do. Gentlemen, electronics are heavy, only bring what you really need. Also, portable dvd players, laptop computers, and hand held video games all have different chargers that will take up a lot of room.
Remember, the more room you save in your suit case, the more you can shop. Always error on the light side for packing because you can wash your clothes on vacation if necessary. I promise you will be happier when traveling if you have less to carry.
How much clothing should you bring on a trip? How ever many days you will be gone, cut them in half and bring for that many days. For example, if you will be on vacation for two weeks, bring enough for one week. Bring clothes that you can mix and match with and you will not have to wear the same outfit twice. Try to stay away from bringing too many shoes. This is one area people tend to over pack in, especially women. For most trips, two pairs are usually sufficient. One for walking and one for dinners and night life. If you wear one of the pairs, you will only have to pack one which will save you room in your bag.
Packing light for a summer vacation is always easier than a winter trip. Summer is a great time to go somewhere because you can get away with a light suitcase. Shorts and t-shirts hardly take up any room in your bag. For women throw in a couple of sundresses with your day clothes and your complete for night and day wear. Sundresses fold nicely and will not fill your suitcase up. Men only need a couple of nice shirts for dinner and maybe one pair of light pants in addition to the shorts and t-shirts. One sweater or light jacket is plenty for the summer. Bathing suits seems to be another item people over pack. Probably because they are small and people do not think they will take up much room. However, you will not need more than two so why not save the room.
Winter trips call for you to be more savvy when packing. Clothes for cold weather are bulky, but if you get creative you can pack light. There is a couple of things you can do to help. One, wear your heavy coat instead of packing it. You will notice more room immediately if you take that out of your bag. Two leave your heavy sweaters at home and bring your thin long sleeve thermal style shirts. Layer your clothing and you will be just as warm as you would be in your sweaters.
Do you really need all the extras? Leave your blow dryers, irons, and beach/pool towels at home. Most hotels have these items and they are not necessary. Ladies, be careful with bringing too many purses and jewelry. I have seen women fill large areas in their suitcases with these items. One purse is plenty and a couple of pieces of jewelry that are versatile will do. Gentlemen, electronics are heavy, only bring what you really need. Also, portable dvd players, laptop computers, and hand held video games all have different chargers that will take up a lot of room.
Remember, the more room you save in your suit case, the more you can shop. Always error on the light side for packing because you can wash your clothes on vacation if necessary. I promise you will be happier when traveling if you have less to carry.
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