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During February, 2007, four U.S. airports, including John F. Kennedy
International Airport in New York, will debut the Clear Registered
Traveler program.  This program lets frequent travelers zip through TSA security check points.

It uses
biometrics, technology that measures human physical characteristics for
identification purposes.

While travelers registered with Clear can get through security faster they still
have carry  their gels, pastes, and liquids in clear one-quart zip-lock bags.

Clear Registered Traveler has been in tested at Orlando
International airport since 2005.  The program already has 35,282 travelers enrolled nationwide.

The  Transportation Security Administration
has approved Clear to expand to up to 20 airports this year, and an
international contract is in place between Toronto Lester B. Pearson
International Airport in Canada and Verified Identity Pass, the privately held, New York City-based concern that developed Clear Registered Traveler in conjunction with the TSA.

During February, 2007, four U.S. airports, including John F. Kennedy
International Airport in New York, will debut the Clear Registered
Traveler program.  This program lets frequent travelers zip through TSA security check points.

It uses
biometrics, technology that measures human physical characteristics for
identification purposes.

While travelers registered with Clear can get through security faster they still
have carry  their gels, pastes, and liquids in clear one-quart zip-lock bags.

Clear Registered Traveler has been in tested at Orlando
International airport since 2005.  The program already has 35,282 travelers enrolled nationwide.

The  Transportation Security Administration
has approved Clear to expand to up to 20 airports this year, and an
international contract is in place between Toronto Lester B. Pearson
International Airport in Canada and Verified Identity Pass, the privately held, New York City-based concern that developed Clear Registered Traveler in conjunction with the TSA.

Air travel over the Holidays is a unique experience, but it can be enjoyable if you plan ahead.  Here are five tips to make your Holiday travel more enjoyable:

1-Pack Light — With liquids, gels, and pastes being restricted to only as many 3-ounce bottles as can fit in a 1 quart zip-lock bag, the airline baggage systems are bursting at the seams.  Even though you are permitted to check two bags per person, one and a small carry-on is better.

2-Gifts — Wrap them at your destination.  Taking wrapped gifts through TSA security checkpoints is almost like wearing a sign saying, "Pull me aside and give me some extra special screening."  You do not want that kind of attention.  Plus, you will probably have to re-wrap your gifts after the TSA screener is finished with them.

3-Jewelry — We like to look our best when we travel, but good jewelry is metal and the arch that TSA requires you to pass through at their checkpoints are called, "metal detectors."  They will detect jewelry and in most cases you will be asked to return to the unsecured part of the line, remove your jewelry, and take another pass through the metal detector.  Packing you jewelry in your checked luggage is also risky.  Suitcases filled with jewelry tend to get "lost" more frequently than those without.

4-Relax — Crowded planes, uncertain weather, over-worked baggage handlers, and new security rules add to the list of things that can go wrong when you travel.  Expect the unexpected.    Take a good book or DVD with you and keep your stress-level low.

5-Food  — Airline food was never good, now it is almost nonexistent.  Pack a few snacks in your carry-on, remembering that gels, liquids, and pastes are not permitted.  Nuts, dried fruits, and jerky may not be your idea of a gourmet meal, but they satisfy your hunger pains and give you healthy alternatives to the cholesterol and carbohydrates offered by most airport food concessions.

Our wish for you is safe and enjoyable Holiday travels.

We’ve seen large quantities of gels, liquids, and pastes confiscated at TSA checkpoints in airports around the country.  We’ve even seen people try to take live shotgun shells and box cutters through these checkpoints.  But, an incident at LAX (Los Angeles International) really got our attention.  Fortunately, it ended without injury or serious side effects.  And, if it wasn’t reported on KTLA-TV and written about in the LA Times, we would have thought it was just an urban legend.  Although it would be difficult to make-up a story this good.

Last Saturday morning, a 56-year old woman placed her one-month old grandson in a gray plastic bin and sent him through the airport security x-ray machine.  The TSA screener was shocked when he saw the baby’s skeletal form on his computer display, but he responded quickly, shut down the x-ray machine, and rescued the infant.

Gray plastic bins are used to transport computers, shoes, and jackets along the conveyor belt as they pass through the x-ray machines.

The TSA screener immediately called police who called paramedics.  A doctor examined the baby and gave him a clean bill of health.  After all the commotion subsided, the grandmother and baby were allowed to board their Alaska Airline’s flight from Los Angeles to Mexico City.

The doctor said the baby received about the same among of radiation as he would receive after spending an afternoon outside on a typical California day.  Other than an embarrassed grandmother, there were no adverse side effects.

Once on the plane, we hope the grandmother held the baby in her lap rather than putting him in the overhead baggage compartment!

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I’ve been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

You can imagine my dilemma when TSA barred all gels, pastes, and
liquids beyond airport security.  I contemplated sending toothpaste,
deodorant, and hair gel to each of my hotels using an overnight
delivery service, but that proved to be more expensive than buying the
same items at my destination and then disposing of them before I
checked-out. 

Since most hotels provide shampoo, liquid soap, and mouthwash, my purchases were minimal.  My only complaint was locating a drug store and making time in my schedule to stop and shop.

I was so excited when TSA recently announced that gels, pastes, and
liquids where once again allowed through security screening.  The only restriction was that they had to be transported in clear plastic containers that were three-ounces or less in size.  All of the clear contains also had to fit in a one-quart clear plastic bag that could be sealed.

The evening news made a big deal out of the change and predicted record lines and waiting times the next day at airports around the country.  I was undaunted and took my see-through one-quart bag filled with three-ounce clear containers to security for my morning flight from O’Hare to Boston.  I breezed through security in less than 3 minutes which was record time for that hour of the day.

I would have been through faster, but several TSA employees were curious to see their regulations in practice.  They passed the see-through bag around and nodded approvingly.  One TSA employee waived the bag in the air and shouted to those waiting in the security queue that, "this is the way to transport gels, pastes, and
liquids.  Do it just like this and you will be just fine."  The TSA employees seemed somewhat surprised that someone had actually read and followed their rules.

I took the same see-through bag filled with three-ounce containers through Boston, Baltimore, and Dallas airport security during the next two weeks and never encountered a delay.  TSA officials were always curious about the one-quart bag, but they always let it pass through.

The only negative thing I noticed about allowing gels, pastes, and
liquids to be carried onboard is that the overhead compartments are beginning to get full again.  When everyone was checking their baggage, the overhead compartments onboard the planes were conveniently empty which is a treat for any frequent flier.

I don’t enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

The symptoms of chikungunya are high fever and crippling joint pain.
The fever typically lasts for two days and abruptly comes down.
However, other symptoms, namely joint pain, intense headache, and
insomnia lasts for a variable period, usually for about 5 to 7 days.

India’s Kerala State, which has recently been honored the world’s top tourist destination, is now concerned about their upcoming tourist season which traditionally begins about October 15th.  Other tourist destinations affected by the outbreak include Kottayam, Emakulam,
Kollama and Thiruvananthapuram.

PK Hota, India’s health secretary, said, "The situation is serious.   The figures are likely to rise further until the weather changes in
November."  In the mean time, the Indian Government is responding with supplies of test kits, medicines, and fogging machines.

A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be arriving soon to complete a spot study on the chikungunya viral outbreak.  I will continue to monitor reports from India and the WHO and keep you informed.