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How To Get The Most From A Round-The-World Airfare

May 11, 2011

ROUND-THE-WORLD airfares are a great option if you’re planning on taking off for a global adventure.

But finding the best deal to suit your needs is not necessary easily, as there is literally a world of options when it comes to round-the-worlds.

Flight Centre Limited’s airfare experts have compiled some hints to help you if you’re thinking of taking off from Australia to Zambia and everywhere in between.

 

1) Ask an expert to build an itinerary

You probably won’t find the best round-the-world itinerary to suit your needs and budget on-the-shelf or neatly packaged online.

Experts can build a tailored itinerary to suit your individual needs, using a combination of traditional airlines, new age and low cost carriers (LCCs).

 

2) Student fares

If you are aged under 26 or a full-time student, you may be able to save money by including some exclusive one-way fares in your itinerary.

As these fares are not available to everyone, they are unlikely to be included typical itineraries.

 

3) Overland journeys

Many travellers like to include overland legs in their round-the-world itineraries.

This may include car, coach or rail travel within a particular country or region.

Rather than waste time and money by backtracking to your original destination to catch the next flight in your round-the-world journey, ask your agent to tailor an itinerary that allows you to fly in to one city and out of another.

 

4) Side trips

If you plan to travel extensively within a particular region, Europe for example, use Low Cost Carriers (LCCs) for side trips.

This option is ideal if you are backpacking or have a base to park your luggage prior to taking side trips, as you can avoid LCCs’ hefty checked luggage fees.

 

5) Think flexibility

The cheapest round-the-world option is not necessarily the best – if you’re on a round-the-world adventure, chances are you’re going to want to stay longer in some cities and include other destinations in your trip.

If you’re looking for flexibility and added freedom, particularly the ability to change dates and destinations, ensure you buy a fare that allows you to make the necessary changes at a small cost.

Some airlines also offer the option of upgrading to a higher cabin class. Since this is by travel sectors, you may be able to upgrade a particular long haul flight, rather than the entire round-the-world fare.

ENDS

Beating The Airport Layover Blues

May 9, 2011

Beating The Airport Layover Blues

PASSING the time during long airport layovers is becoming easier, as airlines and airports boost their facilities.

As a helping hand for international travellers, Flight Centre has compiled a list of possible activities that may appeal to those who aren’t prepared to simply wait patiently in the transit lounge for their departing flight.

Spas

Luxury spas are now standard features at the world’s major international airports. Examples include Virgin’s Cowshed spas in the UK and the Timeless spas at Dubai International Airport.

Tie the knot

Several airports allow travellers to tie the knot within the terminal or in other dedicated facilities. Amsterdam’s major airport, Schiphol,  has become one of the most popular airport wedding destinations and has a number of options for couples to choose from, including hangar-based ceremonies.

Lounge in award winning style

Guide book specialist Frommer’s, in conjunction with USA Today, recently judged Cathay Pacific’s The Wing at Hong Kong Airport as the world’s leading lounge. The lounge, which is currently being renovated, has long been a favourite for travellers, with its hotel-style private cabanas particularly popular.

Shop for a bargain

If you need a last-minute gift, Heathrow is the place to be.

According to Skytrax, the famous London airport has the world’s best shopping. In all, Heathrow has more than 80 stores, including Harrods, Tiffany and Co, Prada and Gucci.

If you’re looking for a second hand bargain and are passing through town at the right time of year, you might be able to attend a lost and found auction at Miami International Airport (MIA)

According to the airport, hundreds of items sold under the hammer at the most recent auction in March,  including phones, suitcases, DVD players and jewelery that went MIA at MIA.

Catch a movie

Hong Kong International Aiport has a 4D Extreme Screen, which is reportedly the largest in Asia. The cinema is located on Level 6 of Terminal 2, near two other favourites – the I-Sport sport simulator and the Playstation Gateway.

Whiter teeth

Travellers passing through Birmingham Airport in the UK can enhance the holiday smile by taking advantage of a 20-minute teeth whitening service offered by the Smile Company.

Cheers

If you feel like a drink, The Center Bar at Switzerland’s Zurich Airport has just been named the world’s best airport bar at the inaugural Airport Food and Beverage Awards.

Those seeking a caffeine hit can try Frankfurt Airport’s Perfect Day, a coffee and sandwich specialist that was honoured in the non-alcoholic section at the same awards.

Take the plunge or play a round

The Ambassador Hotel at Singapore’s Changi Aiport has a rooftop pool and is located within the airport’s Transit Mall, which means that hotel guests can swim, sleep or use the 24-hour gym without clearing immigration.

Golfers can play a round at the Sky City Nine Eagles Golf Course, near Terminal 2 at Hong Kong International Airport.

Equipment rental, baggage storage and a pro-shop are available at the course.

Something for the kids

Air France has developed a business lounge specifically for children who are travelling alone, or “unaccompanied minors” as they are known in airline speak.

The lounge at Paris-Orly airport has a range of dedicated facilities for kids including DVDs, toys and books. Supervision is provided.

Try your luck

Where else but Las Vegas?

If you’re wondering what to do with your spare change before you take off for home,  MacCarran International Airport has more than 1200 slot machines in its terminals.

ENDS

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