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Discounts from 20% off - Weekends at Extended Stay Hotels
March 31, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Last minute deals for new bookings this weekend (stays 4/2 through 4/4) and next weekend (stays 4/9 through 4/11) at select Extended Stay Hotels(sm) locations. Visit our Weekend Deals section by clicking here. From there, you can book and save at least 20% on stays this weekend or next at your favorite destinations, like Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and many others.
For Arrival Dates 4/2/2010 and 4/3/2010
* Atlanta, GA- Rates from $31.99/night
* Chicago, IL - Rates from $34.99/night
* Dallas, TX - Rates from $31.99/night
* Orlando, FL - Rates from $39.99/night
* Los Angeles, CA - Rates from $41.99/night
* See all Locations >
For Arrival Dates 4/9/2010 and 4/10/2010
* Washington, DC Area - Rates from $47.99/night
* Raleigh, NC - Rates from $31.99/night
* Las Vegas, NV - Rates from $39.99/night
* Cleveland, OH - Rates from $47.99/night
* Philadelphia, PA - Rates from $39.99/night
* See all Locations >
Smart Luggage Choices
March 30, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack
In the movie, Up in the Air, George Clooney stars as Ryan Bingham, a corporate downsizing expert who might easily be classified as one of the savviest frequent fliers around. Before the credits even roll, he has accomplished what few travelers ever do and hits the frequent flyer ten-million-mile mark. Watching Ryan Bingham expertly pack his bags and navigate through airport security checkpoints should inspire most travelers. In fact, I would argue that even the most intuitive and gifted travelers could probably learn a thing or two from this guy’s finesse.
Although most travelers are aware of the basics: preprinting their boarding pass, checking in online and making sure their flight is on time, few people stop to think about the role that their luggage plays in relationship to the ease with which they travel. While Ryan Bingham openly preferred his Travelpro carry-on bag to all of the others, there are plenty of other suitcases out there that scored equally well in Consumer Report ratings.
Having a suitcase on wheels can be one of the most important factors if you want to move gracefully and efficiently through the airport. Although fancy designer luggage may look cool, a bag that moves freely and seamlessly through the airport and aircraft aisle is divine. If you’re someone who pulls your bag down stairs or over curbs, your luggage must have a wide wheelbase along with a set of strong, rugged wheels. Consumer Search found that the Eagle Creek Tarmac 22, scored the best in the rolling luggage category. With durable wheels that roll smoothly and can handle carpet or concrete with ease, the Tarmac 22 wins a lot of travelers’ hearts. If you appreciate the newest travel inventions, you may prefer the Samsonite Spinners series or the Rome Hard Shell Spinner Upright, both of which scored well in consumer reviews and are equipped with the latest multi-directional spinner wheels.
The weight of your luggage is another critical factor to examine. Think of all the times you are required to move and/or pick up your own luggage. In one day you may find yourself lifting your bag onto buses, heaving it up and down stairs and raising it into an aircraft’s overhead compartment. If you find yourself struggling to pick up your own bag, most likely, the struggle is slowing down your travel time, as well as the time of others. The Heys xcaseXL has earned the title of the world’s lightest luggage. Weighing in at just 5.5 pounds, this 20” carry-on bag is made of a Polycarbonate composite that is both durable and flexible. At just over 7 pounds, the Travelpro Maxlite 22-inch Upright is another good choice. So if you’re notoriously a heavy packer, choose a bag that’s light!
The following final points should be taken into consideration as you evaluate the speed worthiness of your luggage. There is more to efficient luggage handling than weight and wheel considerations. If you are struggling with the zippers on your luggage, most likely the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers examining your baggage will probably have trouble too. With a lifetime warranty, no questions asked, you can be sure that the zipper construction from luggage by Briggs & Riley will be top-notch. Also, choosing a bag with extra packing aids, like external compartments in which to place frequently accessed items, and waterproof compartments to avoid leaky messes, can help ensure that you have a speedy and efficient travel day.
When it’s all said and done, just remember that whether you tackled your travel day masterfully or had a few hiccups along the way, the best way to unwind is to stay at a place that feels less like a hotel and more like a home. With fully equipped kitchens, and on-site laundry facilities, Extended Stay Hotels allow you to throw your luggage aside, sit back and finally relax.
Safe Driving for Road Warriors
March 23, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
One of the most common causes of automobile accidents is distracted drivers. Those few seconds that a driver is distracted from the road are a prime opportunity for disaster to strike. For road warriors, staying safe while driving means staying focused.
A primary cause of distracted driving is also one of our favorite business tools - the cell phone. Many states have enacted laws banning texting or the use of handheld cell phones while driving. The Governors Highway Safety Association provides a state-by-state list of current laws that is well worth reviewing before your next out-of-state trip.
So what are your options? Bluetooth headsets are the most popular way many drivers stay in touch while driving. If you are thinking of buying a new set or replace an existing headset, you may want to look over the latest reviews at CNET. While these sleek communicators are very cool, they can also set you back a handsome sum. If you need the convenience of hands-free phone use, but are on a budget, you might want to look into Jupiter Jack. Once the device is attached to your phone, the incoming side of your conversation is played over the car’s FM radio.
Since many road warriors rely on rental cars for local transportation, it’s a smart idea to investigate what sort special services a rental company offers to make your trip safer and more comfortable. Hertz, in particular, offers several.
Clearly, fumbling with maps or written directions are major distractions when you are driving. Powered by the Magellan GPS system, NeverLost is Hertz’s built-in navigation system. With voice and visual instructions, this system will get you to your destination with as little hassle as possible. Additionally, you can avoid spending time in the car programming the day’s list of destinations; Hertz offers the NeverLost Trip Planning service. Prepare your itinerary on your computer and save it to a USB Flash Drive. Then just plug the drive into your NeverLost system and you are set to go.
Even if you remain aware of your own driving, you can’t control the behavior of other motorists. Probably the best advice for any driver is to remain constantly vigilant for highway danger. According to the AAA pamphlet titled “Get a Grip,” 37% of the drivers in one study took no action to prevent or avoid an accident. Clearly, they were unprepared to react. For other highway safety suggestions, visit the AAA website.
Smart Phone - Smart Traveler
March 19, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
For many road warriors, finding ways to let technology make their travels simpler is a life’s work. These travelers were among the first to carry cell phones, laptop computers, gps devices, and IPods as they traveled across the country. Until recently, even these techno-travelers had to rely on a printed boarding pass to get through security and onto their flight. It looks as if this too may soon become a thing of the past.
Tnooz, a travel technology news outlet, recently reported on the entry of United Airlines into the world of electronic boarding passes. These are in the form of an email sent to your mobile device that includes a two dimensional barcode. You present your phone with this code on the screen at the TSA security desk and the boarding gate and never have to deal with paper boarding passes again.
United isn’t the only airline offering this service; most airlines utilize a similar process. Travelers check in for their flights up to 24 hours in advance at a special web address for each airline and receive the barcode via text message. There are, of course, a few things to keep in mind.
First, you may only have one electronic boarding pass per mobile phone. If there are two or more people traveling, each person needs their own phone. Families should keep this in mind if they are traveling with children. Using this process makes it critical that you keep your mobile device well charged. You really don’t want the battery to die just as security is about to scan your pass.
Since this is a relatively new service, it is offered on a limited number of airlines and not at all airports. In addition to United Airlines, some variation of this service is offered by American Airlines, Alaska and Horizon Airlines, Continental, Delta and Southwest. Be sure you check with your carrier to confirm that they offer this service at the airport you use.
This new service is just one example of how mobile phones and devices are making life easier for the road warrior. If you happen to be an IPhone user, here are a few other worthwhile apps to consider.
NextFlight - This app is perfect for those on-the-fly schedule changes when you are delayed, bumped or want to leave early. NextFlight quickly finds an alternative flight so you can be on your way.
Wi-Fi Finder - Hate looking all over for a Wi-Fi hot spot when you just must check your email? This app does it for you. Best of all, it is free.
Cheap Gas - Who doesn’t appreciate cheap gasoline? Whether you are keeping your personal travel costs down or making the boss happy, this app will guide you right to the lowest gas price around.
Technology is great when we travel, but it will never replace a soft couch or comfortable bed. For these reminders of home, you need to choose one of the nearly 700 Extended Stay Hotels across the country and in Canada. At Extended Stay Hotels, you always get a large, comfortable and affordable room with a well-equipped kitchen. Try finding an app for that.
Last Minute Weekend Deals - Hotel Rooms from $31.99/night
March 17, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Last minute deals for new bookings this weekend (stays 3/19 through 3/21) and next weekend (stays 3/26 through 3/28) at select Extended Stay Hotels(sm) locations. Visit our Weekend Deals section by clicking here. From there, you can book and save at least 20% on stays this weekend or next at your favorite destinations, like Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, Dallas, and many others.
For Arrival Dates 3/19/2010 and 3/20/2010
* Atlanta, GA- Rates from $31.99/night
* Dallas, TX - Rates from $31.99/night
* Fort Lauderdale, FL - Rates from $51.99/night
* Seattle, WA - Rates from $35.99/night
* Washington, DC Area - Rates from $47.99/night
* See all Locations >
For Arrival Dates 3/26/2010 and 3/27/2010
* Los Angeles, CA - Rates from $43.99/night
* Orlando, FL - Rates from $39.99/night
* Chicago, IL - Rates from $34.99/night
* Philadelphia, PA - Rates from $39.99/night
* Houston, TX - Rates from $31.99/night
* See all Locations >
Google Voice
March 16, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack
The one thing common to most road warriors is that they tend to work in many different places. At various times they work at home, in an office, in their car and in hotel rooms. Staying in touch with friends, family and business associates can be a challenge.
Cell phones and internet-based email made this problem much simpler, but the ubiquitous Google has introduced a completely new solution for this age-old problem - Google Voice. Best of all, it’s free.
Initially launched in the spring of 2009, Google Voice integrates voice mail, phone service and e-mail. Once you get your account, you can control your calls in all sorts of new ways. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me start with the basics.
At the moment, this service is available on an “invitation only” basis. But don’t worry. Anyone with a Gmail account can request an invitation. Once you are accepted, you are assigned a phone number and are ready to go. You will need to establish settings for incoming and outgoing calls. Here is where the fun starts.
Incoming calls-Some calls you want to answer wherever you are and others you want to avoid everywhere. Set calls from your best customer to ring both your office phone and cell phone. Really important calls can ring on all your phones. On the other hand, the annoying neighbor might go straight to voicemail. You can even set a voice mail greeting based on who is calling. A casual message for friends and a more formal greeting for customers.
Speaking of voicemail, Google Voice allows you to hear your messages on your phone or your computer. You can even read your voicemail. That’s right. Using voice recognition software, Google Voice converts your voice messages to text. You can receive these messages by email or text to your cell phone. One note of caution here. Given that voice recognition software still has some serious room to improve, it is likely that you will get a real laugh out of some of your messages.
Outgoing calls-The good news here is that your domestic calls are free. International calls are, according to Google, “just pennies a minute” depending on where you call.
You can make a Google Voice call from any phone. First, access the main number, confirm your account and make your call. Certain cell phone users can acquire apps that allow you to dial directly and still use the Google Voice account.
Texting-If you are a big texter, but hate the extra charges, this may be for you. Google Voice comes with a free SMS, short message service, that can handle both incoming and outgoing messages.
If you think this might be of interest, Google Voice has several interesting YouTube videos worth watching.
Just think how this might simplify your life. No more business card with four different phone numbers. No matter what phone you call from, you are properly identified on caller ID. You can be calling from your car, your office or your large comfortable room at any of the nearly 700 Extended Stay Hotels, and you will be in control of your telephonic life. And that is a pretty good feeling for any road warrior.
Look Out New York
March 12, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, operators of JFK International Airport, are doing a little remodeling. The result could have road warriors across the country jockeying for fewer and more expensive flights. So what is a business traveler to do?
First, here’s the plan. Beginning March 1, 2010, JFK began reconstruction of the Bay Runway, one of the longest in the world, making it larger and converting it from asphalt to concrete. During the four-month construction period, the runway will be completely closed. This closure will move half of departures and a third of all JFK traffic to three smaller runways.
Travelers far from New York City will feel the impact of this shut down. Airlines are expected to reduce the number of flights to, from and through JFK. This will certainly mean higher fares and more sold-out flights. Flights to and from JFK are expected to experience delays similar to those during the busiest summer seasons - ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. Airports that are popular destinations from New York, like Los Angeles, San Francisco and Orlando, will feel the pinch as well.
If this is the problem, what is the solution? Time is the only real solution, but here are some ways a road warrior can minimize problems during the construction.
Book early - Fliers can no longer assume that flights during the spring season will be uncrowded. A reduced number of flights in and out of New York will affect flights everywhere. If you are reasonably certain you will travel, make reservations now.
Consider alternatives - If your flight is heading to or through JFK, find an alternate route. Keep in mind that delays at JFK will ripple to its major connector airports. Los Angeles, San Francisco and Orlando should be avoided, even if you aren’t heading for New York. One website, AlternateAirports.com, will help you find nearby airport options. If you must visit the Big Apple, consider local alternatives like LaGuardia and Newark. Don’t discount Westchester County Airport. This regional airport has scheduled flights with many major carriers from airports like O’Hare International and Orlando International.
Allow extra time - This isn’t rocket science, but it is sound advice. This includes more time for connections. If you must book a tight connection, consider taking only carry-on luggage or ship things ahead to your destination.
Use the tools - Knowing as early as possible that your flight has been delayed is crucial. Early warning, even by a couple of hours, can make all the difference. If you know about a problem ahead of all the other travelers on your delayed or cancelled flight, you have a better chance of booking a new flight. FlightCaster is an amazing service that will forecast the likelihood of your flight being delayed.
The conclusion here is simple. This won’t last forever, and the prepared traveler will fare better than the unprepared traveler who just shows up and hopes. Consider it one of life’s little lessons. Sort of like making Extended Stay Hotels your place of choice when you travel. Make the right choice, and you too can be comfortable about your travel plans.
Save 20% on Weekend Stays - Extended Stay Hotels
March 10, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Last minute deals for new bookings this weekend (stays 3/12 through 3/14) and next weekend (stays 3/19 through 3/21) at select Extended Stay Hotels(sm) locations. Visit our Weekend Deals section by clicking here. From there, you can book and save at least 20% on stays this weekend or next at your favorite destinations, like Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Seattle, and many others.
For Arrival Dates 3/12/2010 and 3/13/2010
* Atlanta, GA- Rates from $31.99/night
* Fort Lauderdale, FL - Rates from $51.99/night
* Houston, TX - Rates from $31.99/night
* Los Angeles, CA - Rates from $41.99/night
* Seattle, WA - Rates from $35.99/night
* See all Locations >
For Arrival Dates 3/19/2010 and 3/20/2010
* Phoenix, AZ - Rates from $31.99/night
* St. Louis, MO - Rates from $27.99/night
* Washington, DC Area - Rates from $47.99/night
* Philadelphia, PA - Rates from $39.99/night
* Charlotte, NC - Rates from $46.99/night
* See all Locations >
Staying Well During Travel
March 9, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Few things will put more fear in the heart of a road warrior than a suspicious sneeze, a persistent cough or a nagging sore throat. Getting sick while traveling is one of those things best avoided at almost all cost.
A major contributor to travel colds is the time we spend on airplanes. Interestingly, the issue isn’t necessarily air recirculation but low cabin humidity, according to a study in the Journal of Environmental Health Research.
After all, if your nose and throat are too dry to trap germs before they get into your body, you are at increased risk of getting sick. Everything you touch while traveling, from the handrail in the airport to the armrest on your seat carries the germs of the travelers that went before you. Ignoring these facts alone will have the unwitting traveler down in no time.
To stay well you must remain hydrated. Don’t rely on the flight attendant to bring you water. Pack an empty water bottle in your tote bag and fill it after you have passed through security. Don’t drink all at once. To most fully absorb the water, take small sips very often. Avoid drinks like coffee, sodas with caffeine and alcoholic beverages. These will actually dehydrate your further.
You will get even more benefit from drinking a warm beverage. Just not coffee. Consider packing some Crystal Light or Tang powder. Your flight attendant will gladly provide a cup of hot water. But don’t stop there. Your nose is under attack by the dry cabin air. This can be resolved for less than $10 and a trip to the corner drug store. A saline nasal spray may be all your nose needs to stay clear and healthy.
Here’s another alert - keep your hands clean. You touch a counter or a handrail, then put a piece of gum or candy in your mouth. You could be your own worst enemy. But no traveler can be constantly running to the restroom to wash his or her hands. Carry a small, remember the 3-ounce rule at security, alcohol-based hand sanitizer. The Center for Disease Control recommends that you use products with at least 60% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol.
Most experienced travelers have their own special items taken to prevent the onset of a cold. Some travelers rely on immune system boosters, like Airborne. Vitamin C and E are also favorite items to help the immune system, as is the mineral zinc. For more information on these and other vitamins, read this Family Nutrition article.
If the worst happens and you still get sick, be grateful that you are staying with Extended Stay Hotels. The well-equipped kitchen provided at all Extended Stay Hotels means that you have a full-sized refrigerator for juices and healthy foods, plus you don’t have to go out for meals.
Sale - Weekends at Select Extended Stay Hotels
March 2, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Last minute deals for new bookings this weekend (stays 3/5 through 3/7) and next weekend (stays 3/12 through 3/14) at select Extended Stay Hotels(sm) locations. Visit our Weekend Deals section by clicking here. From there, you can book and save at least 20% on stays this weekend or next at your favorite destinations, like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Seattle, and many others.
For Arrival Dates 3/5/2010 and 3/6/2010
* Atlanta, GA- Rates from $31.99/night
* Chicago, IL - Rates from $34.99/night
* Dallas, TX - Rates from $29.99/night
* Los Angeles, CA - Rates from $41.99/night
* Seattle, WA - Rates from $35.99/night
* See all Locations >
For Arrival Dates 3/12/2010 and 3/13/2010
* Jacksonville, FL - Rates from $42.99/night
* Durham, NC - Rates from $31.99/night
* Las Vegas, NV - Rates from $39.99/night
* Knoxville, TN - Rates from $38.99/night
* Denver, CO - Rates from $31.99/night
* See all Locations >
