Fun Destinations for Every Kind of Spring Breaker

It is no secret that popular spring break destinations book up fast and attract crowds of drunken college kids. Whether you are a student who wants a break from the traditional “trashy” spring break, or a family wanting to find some place different and appropriate to take the kids, lesser-known destinations offer exactly what you are looking for. Check out some of our recommendations below:

Saint Augustine, Florida

Located just two hours north of Orlando and one hour south of Jacksonville, St. Augustine offers plenty of beautiful white sandy beaches. Awesome beaches away from increased prices and bunches of drunken college kids…who doesn’t want that? When you are finished at the beach, walk around this city’s historic downtown and enjoy the great food and fun bars.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Think Wisconsin during the spring time is way too cold for swimming? Not if the water parks are indoors! The Wisconsin Dells is basically a city full of hotels with indoor water parks and theme parks. When you get bored of one indoor water park, just walk next door to another one! Whether you enjoy lazy rivers, wave pools or monstrous slides, the Dells will certainly deliver. Order a margarita and book your flight to Wisconsin!

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Dream of a Caribbean retreat away from the crowds? Punta Cana offers the luxury of a variety of all-inclusive resorts which means you can put your money away and relax as soon as you arrive. Swimming, boating, scuba diving and alcohol are all usually included in resorts. Step outside of the box and party spring break style with the natives at nearby local clubs and bars.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Forgo Cancun and book your stay in Puerto Vallarta. This city is perfect for the adventurous spring breaker on a budget. Secret beach coves and beautiful waterfalls are abundant. Once the sun sets, local bars debut their “can’t be beat” happy hour prices that are sure to be a hit with everyone. Night owls can let loose at the fantastic dance clubs and beach parties. Dancing in the moonlight isn’t to be missed!

No matter where you choose as your spring break destination, don’t forget to make your free online reservation with Airways Parking!  

5 Ways to Protect Your Parked Car

From expensive electronics to empty candy wrappers, we keep pretty much everything and anything in our cars. Since your vehicle is essentially your miniature home away from home, you are going to want to take precautions to safeguard your vehicle when you fly out of the Chicago’s Midway International Airport. Although Airways Parking boasts a secure, well lit parking lot, you still have to do your part to ensure the safety of your vehicle. Read on to find out how you can help us protect your car while you are traveling:

1.      It is best not to leave valuables inside, but if you must, hide them, and hide them well. Conceal them at home in your own driveway, away from the prying eyes of airport criminals. Don’t park your car at the airport and then hide your laptop; the risk of being seen is too great.

2.      For maximum security, leave your car near high traffic areas such as the entrance and exit or the shuttle pickup kiosk. The increased foot traffic will add to the number of eyes on your car and will discourage potential thieves.

3.      Your next best bet is to leave your car in a well-lit area, something Airways Parking certainly has to offer. Our entire lot is well-lit for maximum safety. Shining lights discourage intruders who don’t want to be caught.

4.      A neat car is less likely to get robbed. If a thief looks in and sees wires poking out from under the seat or a large object seemingly covered up by a towel or hat, this is sure to attract his or her curiosity. If a potential crook sees nothing but car upholstery, it is less likely that he or she will break in to the vehicle.

5.      Keep your car doors locked at all times. Although this sounds like common sense, many people honestly forget to lock their cars or are lured into a false sense of security by their surroundings. An unlocked car is the easiest way for a thief to slip into your vehicle.

 

 

 

Avoiding Travel Scams

If you have been feeling bored or overworked, the thought of a cheap or free vacation might sound pretty appealing…and scammers know that! Scams are often effective on travelers because of their simplicity, but with a little preparation you can avoid being an easy target. Before you begin your dream vacation, bone up on these tips for avoiding travel-related scams:

v  Watch out for unsolicited “deals” on fantastic locations. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

v  Search the Better Business Bureau and American Society of Travel Agents to make sure your travel company is legit before you give them any money.

v  Always use a credit card when making travel related purchases. This way, if you feel you have been scammed, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company.

v  Be on the lookout for “travel clubs” that offer “free” membership. Many times, these services simply charge your credit card every month and provide few benefits.

v  If you win a “free” vacation, don’t ever give out your credit card information. You should never have to pay to collect a prize.

v  If you are working with a travel agency or vacation service, make sure to get all of the details about your trip in writing. This contract will act as legal proof in the event that your experience wasn’t what you were promised.  

Here at Airways Parking, you will never be scammed. Make your free online reservation today and save!

Flying with Pets

 

                     

 Sometimes you just want to take your furry friend with you on vacation. Other times, you are moving halfway around the world and leaving your best friend behind simply isn’t an option. First-time flying can be nerve-wracking for pets if they are unprepared. Check out these simple tricks for navigating air travel with Fluffy or Fido:

 

1.      Calculate the costs. Believe it or not, there are charges for flying with your pet. These costs can range from $75-$200 for a one-way flight. Research airline rates ahead of time so you aren’t stunned by these fees when it’s too late.

2.      Visit the vet. Call your airline and find out if they require vaccination and health documentation for your pet. Find out if your pet has any health concerns that will make flying more difficult. Even better: research local vets at your destination so you’re prepared in case something goes awry.

3.      Pick the right time. Early morning or late evening flights work best in warmer weather while midday flights are better in colder months. If possible, book a nonstop flight to minimize your pet’s anxiety

4.      Prepare the carrier. Putting your pet in a strange kennel the day of the flight and hoping it will be calm is a recipe for disaster. Instead, place the animal in the container a few times at home. Line the bottom with a familiar blanket and include a favorite toy to provide a sense of security.

5.      Pile on the exercise. They day before and morning of your flight, exercise your pet as much as possible. The goal is to tire them out so they are relaxed on travel day.

6.      Don’t forget food and water. No matter how short you think the flight may be, always pack food and water in your furry companion’s crate. Freeze water before you leave home for easy transportation and a cool refreshing treat once the plane is in the air.

7.      Ditch the Drugs. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises that owners never sedate their pets when flying. The combination of tranquilizers and high altitudes can prove fatal.

 
 
Reduce some of your own travel anxiety by making a free online reservation at Airways Parking!

Rising Above the Holiday Buzz-Kills

It's the most wonderful time of the year....yet some of us are cranky!  Holiday air travel is tricky enough without adding a naughty seatmate to the mix, so we've put some ideas together to help you keep your Christmas cool, and enjoy your flight!

1.    Board with your zone. Don’t cut people in line!  Many people who board first paid for the privilege, so it is only fair to honor it.

2.    Do a good deed. Will it really hurt to switch seats so a family can sit together? If they suggest you trade your aisle seat for their middle seat, use your best judgment. You’re sure to be on Santa’s “nice list” this year!

3.    Don’t give parents dirty stares. While you may pray the woman with the screaming baby doesn’t take the seat next to yours, she just might. If she does sit next to you, don't sulk. She knows her precious darling is making noise; she doesn’t need you to remind her.

4.    Middle seats get the armrest. Do you know anyone who likes to sit in the middle seat? Didn’t think so! Give those unlucky travelers the benefit of both armrests. You’ll survive with the armrest that’s dedicated to you.

5.    Check before you recline. Yes, it’s your right to recline, but wouldn’t it be nice to look behind you before you do? Give that traveler a chance to close his laptop before your seat crushes it.

6.    Let your neighbor sleep. Trying to catch up on your “long winter’s nap” can be tough during a flight. Leave it to the discretion of the stewardess to decide who gets a wake up nudge or who sleeps through the pretzels and orange juice call.

Let the spirit of the season be reason enough to take the high road as you travel.  Remember, everyone’s just trying to get to the presents and dinner table on time! 

This holiday season, make your free online parking reservation with Airways Parking and save!

Surviving Airport Security

 

Getting through security can be one of the more stressful parts of air travel. However, a lot can be done to streamline the process, if you know what you’re doing. To make your excursion through the airport as efficient and comfortable as possible, keep in mind the following advice:

·         Plan ahead. Pack your bag of liquids and your electronics in an easy to access exterior pocket. A good TSA experience starts at home.

·         Dress for success. Security is going to make you take your shoes off. You know this. Avoid wearing knee-high lace up combat boots! Wear shoes that are easy to slip off and a belt that won’t set off the metal detector.

·         Stash your stuff early. It is pretty likely that you will have a bag or purse on your person during your journey through the airport. Avoid fumbling at the checkpoint by sticking your personal items in one of these convenient bags well before you get in line.

·         Order your items. For example, put your shoes on the conveyer belt first, then your laptop, followed by your bag of liquids, and finally your coat. This way you can put your shoes on first, pick up each item as it is scanned, and finally put on your coat and make your way to your gate.

·         When in doubt, leave it out! Unsure if an item is prohibited or not? Put questionable items in your checked luggage or leave them at home.

Don’t forget to make a reservation with Airways Parking to ensure a stress free trip.