3 Ways You Can Make the Most out of Your Travel Resolutions

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service 

P: (631) 587-8500

New Year, new travel resolutions. Since you already know how to KEEP your travel resolutions, it’s time to make sure you get the most out of them.

Make the most out of flash deals: 

Follow your preferred airlines on social media, sign up for alerts on specific routes and be prepared to get flexible. For example: by following JetBlue on social media, we learned of their 12 days of deals promotion - where daily they’d share a new flash deal at 1pm across their social channels. Otherwise, look into specific apps or platforms that can alert you of the best deals - Airfarewatchdog, Hopper, Skyscanner, etc.

Make the most out of loyalty programs: 

Whether it’s with a preferred airline, hotel or credit card - earning points on travel is the best way to reap travel perks. Loyal to one airline? Make sure to sign up for a frequent flyer number and look into their credit card offerings so you can capitalize on freebies like checked bags, priority boarding or lounge access. If you fly with multiple airlines, there are several credit cards that help you earn points and other travel perks.

Make the most out of going abroad:

Pro tip: When it comes to money exchange, reconsider using the Travelex kiosk you see in all major international airports. They typically charge a greater premium on the exchange rate compared to your local bank. Consider withdrawing cash on arrival or looking at options outside of the airport (sometimes hotels can do this for you!). Also, don’t sleep on VAT refunds in the European Union! As a non-EU citizen, you can get a refund for any Value-Added Tax paid on goods - just be sure the retailer fills out a tax free form.

No matter where your 2017 travel plans take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. From all of us to you, we wish you a very Happy and Healthy New Year! 

First Time Heading to Disney? Here’s Our Pro Tips

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

 

Planning your first trip to Disney this fall? We don’t blame you - less of a crowd and lower temps than summer brings, plus who doesn’t want to check out Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival?

If you’ve already booked your trip - you probably have had it up the here with Google searches and friend recommendations on everything from where to stay to where to eat. But what about the pro tips no one tells you? Like what to do if it rains and if should you take advantage of extra magic hours?

Don’t worry - we’re here to educate the masses:

Bring comfortable - and we mean comfortable - walking shoes.
This is not a drill, we repeat, this. is. not. a. drill. It’s easy to underestimate just how much walking you will do at Walt Disney World. This is not a time to be fashionable or hop on the minimalist shoe trend, this is a time to make sure your feet survive to see another day. Perhaps we’re being dramatic, but we’ve experienced this first hand and have learned well from that mistake. Broken in, comfortable, supportive shoes are key.

Stay hydrated with free cups of ice water.
Pro tip: Most quick service restaurants and food stands will give you free cups of ice water - saving you a solid $5 for that bottle of smart water. This is especially good to know when it’s 100 degrees outside and you need to stay continuously hydrated.

Not interested in viewing the parade or nighttime firework display? Stay in the park anyway!
With most attendees lining up for the parade or fireworks, now’s your chance to get on some more rides! The park will seem significantly emptier and thus little to no wait times - but just make sure you are aware of the parade route so you don't get stuck in a far corner of the park waiting for the parade to pass.

Extra Magic Hours? Get on your favorite rides first!
During extra magic hours, it is not guaranteed that all rides will be open. So make sure you don't leave a must-do attraction, like splash mountain, for the midnight of your last night in the park---it may not be open.

Speaking of extra magic hours…
If you don't have a park hopper ticket, try to avoid parks on the day they have extra magic hours. Crowds tend to gather disproportionately at those parks and the extra hour or two you get will likely not make up for the larger-than-normal crowds throughout the day. If you do have a park hopper, consider going for extra magic hours and then leaving to go to a different park once you've done the must-do attractions.

If it starts to pour, stay put.
Seriously DO NOT LEAVE. Florida rainstorms are known to be heavy and quick. While everyone else is running for the exits, go hang out in a gift shop, grab some lunch, or go on a ride that’s indoors. The park will be much emptier when the rain subsides and you'll be happy you stayed. (A waterproof bag or Ziploc is recommended for cell phones and other electronics)

Well, those are our tips - for a list of even more tips for first-timers, check out this Travel + Leisure article. 

Start your vacation off truly stress free, let Dynasty Limousine take care of your airport transportation. We handle pick ups and drop offs at all major New York Airports including LaGuardia, JFK, MacArthur as well as most private airports like Farmingdale Executive Airport. Call and request a quote today: 631-587-8500!

 

Tips for Finding Cheap Airfare Last Minute

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

Looking to get one last hurrah in before summer’s end? Well we’re sure you don’t want to break the bank to do so. 

Once upon a time, securing a cheap fare was as easy as showing up to the airport and purchasing a standby ticket. Now, most flights sell out at full price - BUT there still are some tricks you can keep up your sleeve for finding the best last minute deal. 

We’ll let you in on some of the secrets: 

Download a few travel apps.  

Aside from some of the well known booking websites (like the Kayak’s and Priceline’s of the world), there are a number of apps available all with a common goal - find consumers the cheapest fare possible. Hopper (iOS and Android) helps analyze billions of flight prices daily and is able to make predictions with 95 percent accuracy. It not only tells you when your flight will be cheapest, but will also recommend the time to buy. 

Or try Hopper’s GTFO (Get the Flight Out - punny huh?) app - think of it as the Hotel Tonight of airlines. This app complies and ranks cheap flights leaving day of or the following. For another app in the spontaneous travel category, try Hitlist - ready to show you the best deals from airports nearby. There’s also Skyscanner, Skiplagged, truly the list goes on.

Visit the airline’s website directly. 

While yes, the above travel apps are a good way to comparison shop for deals, one underrated option many seem to forget - going straight to the airline’s website. Most airlines have newsletters that you can sign up for for last minute deals, not to mention the loyalty programs many offer. 

Set up frequent flyer accounts with your preferred airlines to take advantage of flying perks (varies airline to airline): lounge access, upgraded seats, free flights, etc.

Start tweeting.  

Amazing Deal Alert: NYC, Boston and Baltimore to Paris from $299 Round-Trip - https://t.co/YfJREgBoXu pic.twitter.com/lm39ecmw9y

— TPG Alerts (@TPG_Alerts) August 24, 2016

Seriously! Airlines tend to announce deals on their social pages, not to mention some of the popular travel bloggers - specifically The Points Guy (@thepointsguy). The Points Guy is known for being the first to report on the biggest last minute deals and pushes out ‘Amazing Deal Alerts’ on his second Twitter handle: @TPG_Alerts. 

Stay in the know and start following travel apps, travel magazines, airlines, travel bloggers, and Dynasty Limousine on social media!

No matter where your 2016 travel plans take you and what new technology can make it easier, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including, JFK, LaGuardia, MacArthur Airport and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. Dynasty Limousines has competitive rates for Airport and Ground Transportation in the New York area. Call and request a quote today (631) 587-8500!

The Airline Lost My Luggage - Now What?

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

 

The good news? Lost bags are actually getting rarer. In 2015, the nation’s largest airlines misplaced only 3.24 bags per 1,000 passengers (compared to 7 per 1,000 back in 2007). The bad news? Losing luggage still occurs.

While we hope this doesn't happen to you - knowing what to do should you find yourself in this situation is necessary:

Before you board:

• Take a photo. You may know what your “black suitcase” looks like, but trying to describe it to a tee to a stranger may be a little difficult. The more details you can give the agent surrounding color, shape, size, and other details - the better (aka: photos help).
• Include your name inside your bag. You probably have an ID tag attached to your bag, but in case it falls off or goes missing - it’s a good idea to have your contact information listed inside as well. A business card, note, or additional ID tag on top of your clothes will work fine.
• Purchase a tracker. For those looking for some serious peace of mind, purchase a tracker to help track your bag while traveling. Trakdot, for example, is a palm sized device that fits in your checked luggage allowing you to track it from point A to point B.

After you land:

• Report it immediately. Most “lost” bags are actually delayed and airlines can track them within a few hours. Regardless, you’ll still want a paper trail. Go straight to the airport baggage office to file a paper report and keep a copy for yourself. Also, get a phone number so you can follow up with someone just in case you feel left in the dark.
• Ask for reimbursement. Generally, you’re entitled to getting back “reasonable interim expenses” while without luggage. Though what you consider reasonable and what the airline considers reasonable may not align. Delta, for example, will pay as much as $50 per day for five days - provided you save your receipts and you’re buying the necessities.
• If your bag is gone forever, set a claim. So it’s been a few hours, days, weeks, and the airline has declared your luggage officially lost. Now’s the time you’ll need to set a claim. And though, per government rules, domestic travelers can receive up to $3,300 - many receive far less. According to the US Department of Transportation, “Airlines consider the depreciated value of your possessions, not their original price or the replacement costs.”

While losing luggage is certainly a stressful process, getting home doesn’t have to be. Skip the hassle of public transportation and arrange for Dynasty Limousine to handle your airport pick up needs. We’ll navigate the roads surrounding LaGuardia or JFK so you can relax and follow up with airlines as needed.

Memorial Day Weekend 2016 Travel Tips

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

 

Heading out of town this weekend? You won’t be alone. 

Last year, AAA projected 37 million Americans were traveling during Memorial Day Weekend. This year? 38 million are expected to take to the skies and highways due to record low gas prices and airfare. 

 

So what’s a traveler to do?

• Sign up for alerts - Whether through social media or smartphone apps, sign up for travel alerts to stay in the know. Keep an eye on the news for road delays and check your apps for gate changes at airports.
• Leave EXTRA early - Roads and airports will likely be mobbed, so be proactive and leave with plenty of time to get to your destination. Plus, with the recent TSA issues - you may want to arrive an hour or two earlier than usual if you’re flying.
• Check your vehicle - For those of you hitting the roads, make sure your car is in tip top shape prior to departure. That means checking your battery, tires, and oil. Having a roadside emergency kit on hand may also be the difference of getting back on the road soon, or being stuck where you are for some time.

If you’re heading to the airport this weekend avoid road rage, parking fees, and navigation responsibilities - turn to Dynasty Limousine. We’re available for all your airport drop off and pick up needs, to ensure your weekend is hassle free. Give us a call to request a quote - our offices are open 24 hours for your convenience.

Your Guide To "Planning" A Spontaneous Trip

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500 

Whether it's a two week trip to Europe or a quick weekend getaway out of town, most of us are guilty of spending hours upon hours planning every little detail - transportation accommodations, hotel and restaurant reservations, some of us may even go so far as to print out an itinerary that covers every minute of every day. But while some trips certainly do require such extensive planning, sometimes it's more exciting to be spontaneous and treat yourself to the vacation you need, right when you need it. Sound like something you're ready to roll with?

If you're ready to head out on a spontaneous journey, here are a few tips that can help you "prepare:"

Be ready to be flexible: When it comes to airfare specifically, be prepared to be flexible if you want to get the best deal. A recent study done by CheapAir showed that the best time to book a flight within the U.S (based on 2015 data) was 54 days in advance, but don't assume that that will apply to every trip - you may need to adjust dates and times to get the cheapest price.

Don't over or under pack: While you don't want to pack too much, if your trip really is spontaneous, you'll never know what you may need in a few days. To get your packing done just right, make sure you have all of the essentials plus just a few extras - an extra t-shirt or two and one different pair of shoes, for example.

Find ONE popular tourist attraction: Rather than plan out every moment of every day, find just one attraction in the area that you find interesting. Then, once you're done with that experience, just start walking left or right - you'd be surprised at how many unexpected tourist attractions you'll find just by exploring on your own!

Have some backup information ready: As much as a spontaneous trip isn't meant to be planned out exactly, it doesn't hurt to have some sort of back up plan in place. Even if it's as simple as you writing down a few recommended restaurants and sticking the piece of paper in your suitcase for safe keeping, knowing that you have a helpful resource close by can help ease some of the nerves that come with traveling without a plan.

For those of you traveling from or around Long Island, one thing you certainly won't have to worry about planning is your transportation - that's what we're here for. We have one of the most impressive limousine fleets in New York and can get you to and from the airport or your local hotel and/or destination safely. 

To reserve your car with us, please call (631) 587-8500 today.

#TravelThursday - Airport Security Tips

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

If you haven’t flown recently or plan to, this news may not be on your radar. For those of us who have, we’re no stranger to recent TSA problems. Airports nationwide have seen security checkpoint lines double in size, with some waits lasting up to 90 minutes. 

Security lines have become so problematic - with many travelers missing flights - that airlines are sending emails to upcoming travelers urging them to arrive extra early:

Why is this happening you ask? Seems a number of factors come into play including an increase in passengers, far fewer Americans signing up for TSA PreCheck, and far fewer TSA screeners available to handle the crowds. 

Knowing peak travel season is upon us, you’ll want to be prepared for security and help move the line through quickly.  Here are our top tips to help you do so:

1. Follow the 3.4 ounces rule. Passengers are not allowed to bring liquids, gels, or gooey substances that are more than 3.4 ounces in a carry on onto the plane. Seriously, don’t even try it. Either stow larger items in your checked bags or dispose of them before arriving to the checkpoint.

2. And bag them up. Have you forgotten to remove your 3.4 ounce liquids before? Likely. But don’t think you can get by like this each time (unless you have TSA PreCheck). Make sure you put all liquid items in a zip lock bag that you can remove from your carry on to be screened separately for easy inspection.

3. Know what is prohibited. Sharp objects, firearms, fuels, tools longer than seven inches in length. For a full list of TSA prohibited items, visit their website here. Remember, even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it poses security concerns.
 
4. Remove electronics and other materials. Remove any laptop computers, video camera, DVD players, etc. from your carry on and place separately into a bin. Your iPads and cellphones are fine in your bags. Then remember to remove any other triggers - keys, watches, coins, belts, costume jewelry, etc. For those traveling with children, your strollers and car seats must pass through the x-ray as well, so be prepared to fold them up.

5. Not all carry ons are created equal. Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all in the carry on luggage world. A bag that says it’s carry on size, does not always equal the size permitted on certain airlines. Check your carrier’s website or call customer service to learn about the specific dimensions you’re allowed to bring. If your bag is too large for that airline or if the overhead space is full - your bag will need to be checked by the flight crew (hopefully you have no breakables or necessities inside). 

With all this in mind, needing to arrive early to ensure you make it to your gate on time is of utmost important. That's where we come in. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including, JFK, La Guardia, Mac Arthur Airport and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. We'll take care of getting you there on time for departure! Call and request a quote: (631) 587-8500

Traveling to Paradise on a Budget

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service 

P: (631) 587-8500

Dreaming of an adventure to paradise without breaking the bank? If your response is “I don’t have enough money to travel”, you’re not alone. But the simple fact of the matter is: you don’t need to be rich in order to travel. What you really need is to plan strategically. Here’s how to do it:

Do Research. Some destinations are more expensive than others. So rather than visiting the most highly desired areas, search for the world’s cheapest, most exotic destinations. You’ll be surprised to discover how much there is to do and see in such a private location.

Choose Two Locations. You heard us right! Make your round trip vacation into a multi-city exploration. Believe it or not, booking a multi-city flight can help you save money significantly on airfare. So if Italy or Paris is calling your name, add an extra stop to a getaway, like Iceland, for an even more wild adventure!

Consider Alternative Lodging. Although traveling during off-peak season is the most obvious way to save, you might not want to sacrifice timing. No problem - there are plenty of other ways you can save. (1) take advantage of deals, such as a “Stay 2 Nights, Get the 3rd Night Free” offer. (2) Opt for an all-inclusive price to help you save on food and drinks during your stay. (3) Take advantage of luxurious accommodations from locals through Airbnb, where you can search for worldwide rentals within your price range.

Seek Out a Travel Agent. Visiting a travel agent can not only provide you with tips and tricks for your next getaway, but it can also help you lower the costs - no extra fees required! Travel agencies offer luxurious special offers and will more or less book the entire trip for you, making it a win-win solution!

No matter where you plan your next travel adventure, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. Call and request a quote today (631) 587-8500! 

Where To Travel in 2016

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

“Buy experiences, not things.” While you may have heard this quote before, research does in fact show that experiential purchases (money spent on doing) tend to provide more enduring happiness than material purchases (money spent on having). The biggest effect on happiness? Anticipation.

With that in mind, stay true to your "travel more" resolution this year. Here are some places you should plan to check out in 2016:

A photo posted by Adventure Culture (@adventure_culture) on Jan 6, 2016 at 5:36pm PST

Iceland - The land of fire and ice, its visual splendor can be enjoyed in all seasons. Spend a day at the famous Blue Lagoon, chase the Northern Lights, or take in the numerous cultural activities available in Reykjavik. Plus, with Icelandair’s Stopover option, you’ll be able to spend up to seven nights in Iceland either en route to or home from your European destination for no additional airfare. 

Costa Rica -  With January marking the start of the dry season, the first half of the month typically brings a lot of tourism. If you’d prefer less crowds, the second half of January through March is certainly one of the best times for a Costa Rica vacation. Explore some travel websites for deals and packages. Groupon, for example, has an 8-day Jewels of Costa Rica Tour ($1,499 - 1,899) and a 5-8 day adventure tour ($999-$1,874), among others!

National Parks - This year is the 100th anniversary of America’s National Parks system. To celebrate its centennial anniversary, the National Park Service is offering 16 days of free admission to 127 parks including the Everglades, Yellowstone, Crater Lake, Alaska’s Denali National Park and Joshua Tree National Park in California (all of which have admission fees). And if you happen to have a fourth grader in your family, your entrance will be free to ALL national parks ALL year thanks to the 100th anniversary program, Every Kid in a Park. But don’t worry, there are still 282 national parks around the country that always offer free admission. So get out, and enjoy nature!

If you find yourself falling into the post holiday blues this month, filling up a blank calendar is one quick way to remedy the situation. Give yourself something to look forward to, start planning - now!

No matter where your 2016 travel plans take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. From all of us to you, we wish you a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

#TL_Chat Recap

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

Heading out of town for the holidays this year? Make sure you leave your hover boards at home. Yesterday, Travel + Leisure hosted a Twitter chat with the TSA to talk all things airport and security. Including what tech gadget is giving security the biggest headache, if wrapped presents are a no-no, and if you can bring your favorite baked pie to Christmas dinner.

Check out our recap below:

Q1: What are your tips for getting through security as fast as possible, especially during holiday travel? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/1j6tvz1yMd

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A1: Arrive in plenty of time, follow our 3-1-1 guidance for liquids, and check your bag for prohibited items B4 the checkpoint #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q2: Fill in the blank: The most expensive thing ever found at the checkpoint by the TSA is _____________. #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/Qu1dzQA13H

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A2: Most items left behind are small, but a $100K Cartier watch was left in May. It was successfully reunited with its owner. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q3: Quiz time! You lost your ID—can you still fly? How? #TL_Chat, has this happened to you? pic.twitter.com/ZX7LcIkHHU

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A3: Yes! You'll complete a form + be asked questions to confirm your identity. You may also be subject to additional screening. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q4: What does the TSA do with all the confiscated items? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/8b6WtI1Bj2

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A4: Most unclaimed & surrendered items are sent to state-run surplus auctions. Guns are turned over to law-enforcement agencies. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q5: True or False: You can bring wrapped presents on the plane with you. #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/jbUNxMhkoq

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A5: Allowed, but not encouraged; If there’s something in the gift that needs to be inspected, we may have to unwrap it. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q6:This year, the one tech item you’ll most likely have trouble getting through security w/ is_________. #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/myPaPqxoR3

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A6: Most airlines have banned hover boards completely; check with your air carrier. For other tech toys, tweet to @AskTSA for an answer!

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q7:Inflight pastimes, which of these is not allowed: Knitting needles, nail clippers, or video game console?#TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/g45ouIeb2o

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A7: Trick question! Any of these items would be allowed on board your flight. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q8: Pies, jams and hams: How do you decide which holiday foods can get through security? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/uC2GXSqfVA

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A8: Meats and baked items are fine. Liquids (like gravy and sauces) must be checked. If in doubt, tweet to @AskTSA for an answer! #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q9: What’s the strangest thing someone has tried to get through security? #TL_Chat, any guesses? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/wcQ5NLy48Q

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A9: People sneaking eels & snakes in their pants comes to mind! Check out https://t.co/J2anB3Qn4t to see more items we’ve found. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

And there you have it. Keep the above in mind on your future air travels and remember to tweet @AskTSA if you have any specific security questions. 

Remember, wherever your 2015 or 2016 travel plans may take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We offer competitive rates for Airport and Ground Transportation in the New York area. Call and request a quote today (631) 587-8500!