Andy Maclean Posts

7 Alternative Lodging Options for Your Next Trip

January 27, 2014 No Comments

Finding somewhere to lay your head while traveling is one of the most important parts of the trip planning stage. Although chain hotels are still a popular and convenient type of accommodation, there are now numerous alternative lodging options for travelers – and many offer some appealing amenities and perks. Read on to learn more about unique accommodation options to explore for your next trip.

1. Boutique Hotels
These small, independently owned hotels cater to those who love to be pampered. With luxurious rooms and attentive staff, boutique hotels are a break from the “one-size-fits-all” chain hotel approach. You usually can expect to pay more for a night in one of these rooms, but the experience often is well worth it.

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4 Tips to Take the Stress Out of Itinerary Changes

January 24, 2014 5 Comments

Changing a trip can be expensive and add a lot of extra headache to what should be an enjoyable experience. Be prepared for any potential inevitability and save yourself the stress (and sticker shock!) of a missed connection or other delays.

1. Use Change/Delay/Cancellation Notifications
Whether you’re still at home, en route to the airport or already sitting at your gate, having the most current flight schedule at your fingertips is important. Most airlines allow travelers to sign up for mobile notifications. Use them and be the first to know when there has been a gate change, flight delay or weather cancellation.

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8 Tips to Save on Meals While Traveling

January 20, 2014 1 Comment

Meals can be one of your biggest expenses while traveling. Even casual lunches can add up quickly. And when you’re eating at restaurants every day of your trip, the final tally can be staggering. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save on meals while you’re away from home.

1. Use Social Media
Before walking through the door of the restaurant, check it out on Facebook, Twitter, FourSquare and Yelp. Often, a simple “like” or check-in can net you a discount, free appetizer or two-for-one coupon.

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6 Tips for Stress-Free Travel Prep

January 17, 2014 No Comments

In the excitement of planning a big trip, it’s easy to forget some of the little details that go along with being away from home for an extended period of time. Don’t fall prey to the stresses of something left undone. These tips will help you prepare for a worry-free trip!

1. Forward Your Mail (Or Have Someone Pick It Up)
Nothing says “we’re not home” like an overflowing mailbox. Before hopping your flight, be sure to forward your mail, have the post office hold it or arrange for a friend or family member to pick it up every day.

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Travel Solutions: Save On International Phone Charges

January 13, 2014 No Comments

Staying in touch with friends and family while you travel abroad is a must, but international phone charges can easily cost you a bundle. A South Florida woman made the news in 2011 when she opened a $201,000 phone bill. It must have been a mistake, right?

Not so much. Her brothers, who had phones on her calling plan, ventured over the border to Canada. They texted and video streamed as normal, but the international roaming charges sent her bill sky high.

Don’t be a victim of phone bill sticker shock. With these tips, you can use your phone to call, text and surf while you globe-trot, and avoid the post-trip cell phone remorse.

1. Use Skype.
Skype is an easy way for an international traveler to communicate while abroad. Simply sign up with Skype, invite your friends and family to join and start talking. The service is free to call other Skype customers, regardless of their location, and you’ll pay just pennies to call landlines and non-Skyping mobile phones.

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