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All Senior Travel Advice

  • U.S. Versus European Credit Card Validation Systems
    by Ed Perkins
    Have you ever had your credit card rejected overseas? It's probably not due to bad credit, but the different validation systems used. Ed Perkins explains how to handle the situation.
  • Winter 2010 Savings for Snowbirds
    by Christine Sarkis, SmarterTravel.com Staff
    One-way car rental specials and big discounts on vacation rentals and campground sites in warm southern states make escaping the cold easy and affordable.
  • Weighing the Risks and Rewards of Joining a Tour Group
    by Ed Perkins
    Forming or joining a tour group may sound appealing and appear like an economically good idea, but there are several things to consider before committing your time and money.
  • Ireland by Bus or Car
    by The Deal Detective, SmarterTravel.com Staff
    The Deal Detective weighs the pluses and minuses of an escorted tour versus an independent vacation.
  • All-Year Travel Insurance Keeps Frequent Travelers Covered
    by Ed Perkins
    For seniors, all-year travel insurance may be a good investment, especially if you travel overseas where Medicare doesn't cover you. Ed Perkins discusses several options.
  • United's Baggage Subscription Could Save You Money
    by Ed Perkins
    While you may scoff at United's $249 yearly baggage subscription, seniors, families, and frequent flyers should take a closer look. Ed Perkins explains how this fee can work for you.
  • What to Look for When Making Holiday Travel Plans
    by Ed Perkins
    Prepare yourself for holiday fare shopping, car renting, and hotel booking by knowing what to expect. Ed Perkins shows you what to look for so you're not caught off-guard.
  • Best Options for Scenic Fall Rail Travel
    by Ed Perkins
    With multiple routes offering plenty of foliage, Amtrak's leisurely train journies are a good way to experience the season. Ed Perkins finds the best deals for day and overnight trips.
  • Tourist Taxes Add to Travel Budget
    by Ed Perkins
    If you thought taxation without representation was settled in 1763, think again. Ed Perkins explains which popular destinations tax tourists the most, and what you can do to avoid it.
  • Fight Back Against Rising Rental Car Costs
    by Ed Perkins
    Car rental companies have been hit hard by the recession. Prices are climbing as a result. Ed Perkins offers advice on how to keep your costs down.
  • Free Tours Offer Budget-Friendly Fun
    by Ed Perkins
    The word "free" never sounded so good. Ed Perkins highlights some of the many interesting factory tours that are easy on your wallet.
  • Forecasting Fall and Winter Travel Prices
    by Ed Perkins
    Will travel prices rise or fall this fall and winter? Ed Perkins has a prediction on the seasons' outlook.
  • Resources for Traveling Women
    by Ed Perkins
    Women who travel with other women or alone are becoming a larger part of the industry. Ed Perkins tracks down online resources for these fearless females.
  • Extended Families Connect on New York Vacation
    by Eileen Ogintz
    Elderhostel enables grandparents and grandchildren to spend time together, as well as take in the sights of the Big Apple.
  • AARP Travel Discounts Fail to Impress
    by Ed Perkins
    Many discounts for AARP members are also available to travelers through other organizations, so the best bet is to check several different providers for the cheapest rate.
  • All-Inclusive Resort Accommodations on Sale
    by Ed Perkins
    There are many vacation offers out there right now but consider an all-inclusive resort. They may be some of the best deals around.
  • Six Questions to Ask Before Booking a Cruise
    by Ed Perkins
    When considering a cruise deal, identify the deal's worth by asking yourself and the cruise agent the following six questions.
  • Rental Car Age Limits Present Problems for Some Seniors
    by Ed Perkins
    Even if you've pre-booked, age limits or age surcharges can prohibit you from getting your hands on a car rental. And did you remember to get an international driver's permit?
  • Save Big on Summer Rail Travel in Europe
    by Christine Sarkis, SmarterTravel.com Staff
    Do your summer plans include a trip to Europe? Then check out these rail deals and discounts, which include half off high-speed train tickets.
  • Hotel Sales: Finding the Right One
    by Ed Perkins
    With so many hotel sales going on right now spotting the best one for you doesn't have to be difficult. Columnist Ed Perkins offers up some samples of great and not so great sales.
  • Evaluating Senior Travel Websites
    by Ed Perkins
    Several senior-specific travel sites come under Ed Perkins' discriminating eye. Are the sites geared for the roaming golden set worth their weight in copper?
  • Where to Cruise This Summer and Fall
    by Ed Perkins
    Deciding where to cruise? Most considerations revolve around four main factors: climate, port activities, en-route sightseeing, and price. Let's break down those variables.
  • Carry-On Bags: The Ultimate Guide
    by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
    While Congress considers a bill that would regulate your carry-on bag, we decided to put together a chart detailing which airlines allow what.
  • Keeping Hubbing Hassles to a Minimum
    by Ed Perkins
    Long custom lines, wild weather, and notoriously delayed planes make some gateway airports a disadvantage to connect through. Which hubs are on the list and how can you avoid them?
  • Vacation Rentals Direct From Want Ad Sites
    by Ed Perkins
    Vacation rentals booked through want ads may offer lower prices but they could potentially have higher risks. Ed Perkins details the pros and cons of booking through want ad sites.
  • How to Find Senior Transit Discounts
    by Ed Perkins
    If you're planning to visit a big city this summer, check for special senior fares before you go. Senior public transit discounts abound in major cities.
  • The Pros and Cons of Booking With a Travel Agent
    by Ed Perkins
    There are advantages and disadvantages to booking with a travel agent. Know when to consider going that route.
  • American Announces One-Way Frequent Flyer Trips
    by Ed Perkins
    With American's new program, frequent flyers can book one-way awards. Find out how many miles will be required, who else offers this option, and who can take advantage of the program.
  • Rail Discounts for Summer Travel
    by Ed Perkins
    With all the shouting about airline discounts, you may wonder if Amtrak and other major rail systems are getting in on the act. Ed Perkins has the answer.
  • Exhibit Packages Available From Museums and Hotels
    by Ed Perkins
    Booking a hotel package can help you skip the long lines at the museum's ticket booth and go to the exhibit VIP-style.
  • Ten (Almost) Free Travel Deals
    by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
    While you're unlikely to get an all-expenses-paid trip unless you win a game show, you can still get portions your trip for free if you book certain promotions or take advantage of some alternative modes of travel.
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