Category: Travel Tips

Spring travel is quite common for many different reasons. Families head out for vacations while the kids are out of school. Couples escape for a break from the wintry weather. And, college students from around the country travel for unforgettable spring break adventures. One walk through an airport during the spring and it is evident that it is quite a popular travel time. Regardless of whatever gets you in the air this season, there are a few important spring travel tips to know.

Weigh Your Options

So often, when you think of Spring Break, you think of the beach, right? It’s a common association. Perhaps it is because those who live in areas where winter is heavy are screaming for the warmth and the sunshine by spring. Beach destinations are wonderful getaways – especially if you are one who is trying to escape winter. It is important to weigh your options, though. Don’t limit yourself to the beach. Visit a national park, go skiing, or head to a destination you’ve always wanted to visit.

Research Before You Go

Sadly, vacations only last for a specific amount of time. Once you arrive at your destination, you only have so long before you must head back to the airport and go home. What will you do with the in-between? If you truly want to make the most of the time you have, then you need to research before you go.

Know the restaurants you want to eat at, the sights you want to see, the adventures or activities you intend to have, and so forth. Plan out as much of this as you can before you go. Sometimes, waiting until the last minute may leave you unable to participate in certain highly-sought attractions. By booking online ahead of time, you can be sure that you have a chance to make the most of your trip.

Travel Safety

There is a lot going on in the world around us. This is why it is so important to be extra careful by taking precautions as you travel this spring – especially if you are leaving the country. Although we are moving in the right direction when it comes to COVID-19 and the global pandemic it brought us, we aren’t entirely out of the woods. Some areas are still having breakouts and some have restrictions in place keeping visitors from accessing all activities.

Further, as the unknown situation with Russia, Ukraine, and the surrounding areas continues to escalate – you may want to double-check travel warnings and advisories with the U.S. Department of State.

Pack Smart

It is so easy to overpack when you go on a trip. You never know what you may want to wear or what the weather will be like. You also never know what you may be doing – such as going swimming, dining in a fancy restaurant, etc. So, how do you pack smart? You consider the research you did while planning your trip, which tells you the things you will likely be doing while there, and you also look at the average weather for the destination and the time you intend to visit.

Pack for these things, making sure you have appropriate clothing. Count your outfits for the number of days. Don’t forget undergarments and shoes, too. The key is to not overpack. There is a good chance you will want to buy some souvenirs while vacationing and you are going to need room to bring them back. If you are flying commercial, this could cause you to have to pay an extra baggage fee. However, flying privately reduces the limitation on luggage.

Travel Must-Haves

As you focus on the itinerary, your clothes, and other details of your vacation, it is incredibly easy to forget some really important things. These travel must-haves can lead to some frustrations if left behind, as they so commonly are. To ensure you have a wonderful spring getaway with yourself, your family, or your friends, then use this checklist so you don’t forget anything you may need:

• Cell phone charger – and a portable power bank.
• Extra medication – a couple of days to an additional week of extra prescription medication, just in case.
• A first aid kit containing pain relievers, bandages, allergy medicine, cough drops, stomach ache medication, etc.
• Copies of your travel documents, if leaving the country. This includes a copy of your identification, travel itinerary, and your passport.
• An empty bag for extra stuff you buy to bring home – or really, for anything you may need it for.

Focus on the Memories

Nothing goes right all the time – even when you are traveling. As you experience your adventures this spring, remember to focus on the memories. There is no need to focus on the things you didn’t get to see, the noisy hotel room, the lost luggage, and so forth. As memory and something, you can laugh at down the road, yes. But let the aggravation and anger about the mishaps disappear.

Spring is all about renewal and rejuvenation. Be sure to come home from your vacation feeling positive and refreshed.

Flying Private

If springtime is all about renewal and rejuvenation, then what better way to treat yourself – and those traveling with you – than with a private jet charter? It doesn’t matter where you are traveling, flying private is a great option. With it, you will find luxurious, comfortable surroundings that make relaxing to and from your destination very easy. There are many other private travel perks, too, such as:

• Flexible travel times.
• Less time spent waiting around airports – and more time enjoying your destination.
• Get closer to your destination.
• Fewer baggage restrictions (easier to load up your golf clubs and gear).

And, of course, you can enjoy a quiet, private flight without worrying about sitting elbow to elbow with strangers – or having to stand in long TSA security lines or deal with any of the other frustrations that come with commercial air travel. As you book your spring travel, consider these tips – including booking a private jet charter – to make it a wonderful experience.

BOOK NOW!

Many people get stuck in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. They spend countless hours trying to buy the right gifts, plan the perfect New Year’s Eve celebration, make sure they’ve got enough space to house all their family – and that everyone gets along. Taking time off of work to deal with all that just seems exhausting to others. Perhaps that’s why so many decide to head out of town during this time – whether planned or last minute. They don’t head to see family but instead take off on an adventure.

Exploring new destinations during the holidays can enhance your life and leave you feeling rejuvenated for the new year. If this sounds wonderful to you, then you need to deceive where you are going to go. Below we’ve put together a list of the best holiday destinations to explore.

Getting There

Before you may decide your holiday destination of choice, it is a good idea to decide to confirm how you are going to get there. Hoping to book a commercial flight at the last minute during the holidays can be very costly. And, for what? To sit uncomfortably for hours with your knees and elbows touching the stranger next to you? Not the most exciting thing to do. And, let’s not even forget about the excruciatingly long security lines or waiting at the gate to board the flight.

Combine all of this with the fact that COVID cases spiking around the world,  you take your chance where you have to – and flying commercial just isn’t it. Does that mean you should give up exploring the best holiday destinations? Absolutely not.

Chartering a private jet is the best way to travel this holiday season. You can book your travel last minute, choose when and where you want to travel (rather than have the airlines give you a list of pre-planned fights), be very comfortable at all stages of your flight – and feel safe from COVID germs!

What more can you ask for on a holiday trip? Book your private flight to one of these magnificent destinations:

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is a city that takes a beating all throughout hurricane seasons and then booms on the holidays. There is so much to do here – especially when it comes to indulging in food, drinks, and live music.

There are unique, locally-owned boutique shops and galleries, restaurants, walking tours, and so much more. The rich history here is one that will get you exploring and experiencing all that you can. You are sure to leave with respect for the strength and diversity of this cajun community.

Kingston, Jamaica

Want to be the envy of all your friends? All you have to do is tell them that you are spending your holidays in the Caribbean islands while they freeze! For years, Kingston has had a reputation for not being the safest place for tourists. But, that’s changing.

Jamaica and its days of sunshine and bright turquoise waters can be just the type of adventure you are looking for. After all,  you can explore both in the water and out! Learn about the Rastafarian culture, hike the Blue Mountains, dance to the steel drums, and more.

By the time you head home from Jamaica, you are going to be sun-drenched, refreshed, and feeling rejuvenated.

Serbia

We all have friends and family who travel and tell us about their trips. But, have you ever had anyone come home from vacation and tell you all about their trip to Serbia? It doesn’t happen very often, does it? So, what does that mean for you? It means that you have so much to explore that you haven’t already heard about indirectly from someone else.

Serbia is rich in history, but it is not stuck there. You will find your days full while exploring the mountains, taking a bicycle tour, visiting the Studenica Monastery, and countless other adventures. Serbia, the birthplace of Roman emperors and biggest raspberry exporter, is sure to fulfill your urge to get out and explore.

Bend, Oregon

Coming back closer to home, Bend, OR, is an out-of-the-way town that is starting to blossom. Slowly becoming home to more and more artists and other creatives, Bend is putting itself on the map.

This area has long been home to many makers of craft beers, making a drink with a little live music the perfect weekend outing. Plus, being in the mountains, skiing has always been their thing. The winds of change are making their way in now, though. There are breweries, new wineries, restaurants, shops, galleries, and more that are making their way into this town. Plus, it is not too far at all from some incredible biking and hiking in the area.

You don’t have to leave the U.S. to feel like you’ve disappeared into a new area.

Beijing, China

Can anyone say, Winter Olympics? The games kick off in February 2022 in Beijing. And, that means now is the time to explore the entire Beijing area. From skyscrapers that look like they are out of this world to impeccable gardens and natural areas for exploring, including natural areas and mountains.

Let your inner adventurer begin exploring. Go rafting or skiing, check out the natural hot springs, hike The Great Wall, and take a moment in the temples.

Tourism is sure to peak here as we get closer to the Olympic games, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore and find your own adventure.

Booking Your Private Travel

Material things can only go so far with us in life, but the memories and experiences we get from traveling all around the world can last a lifetime. As you make your decision about traveling – and try to find the best holiday destinations to explore – why not give one of these places a try? Or find your own. The point is to be safe, have fun, and be sure to book a private jet so you can take advantage of all the perks.

This time of year, the travel industry is busy. Whether traveling to meet friends and family for the holidays or just taking a trip to get away from the hustle and bustle, flights in the air all around the world are packed with travelers.

As optimistic as we all want to be about traveling on commercial airliners during this busy time, it is important to remember that the weather, overbooked flights, and other unforeseen circumstances can lead to long delays, cancellations, and other unpleasantries. Flying private gives you a much better experience entirely, but you still never know about the weather.

So, to keep yourself taken care of – and occupied – whether you are waiting in an airport or have a long flight to your destination, there are a few items you will want to bring with you to make the entire trip much more enjoyable. Below you will find the top six.

1 Headphones

Headphones can be very beneficial when flying. Not only can they allow you to listen to music, watch a movie or binge the latest series, but they can also allow you to block out noise when you just want to get some sleep.

Sure, many airlines offer headphones – either for free or for a small fee. But, bringing your own headphones is more comfortable – especially if you plan on wearing them for an extended time. And, who knows, if you are traveling commercial and you have a talker next to you – all you need to do is put them on, and when you don’t respond, they’ll think it’s due to the headphones.

2. A Portable Charger 

The truth is, you don’t always know where your travels will take you when you get on that plane. Life can change in an instant – and so can travel plans. And there are not too many things worse than having your phone battery die when you need it most. Many terminals – and even planes – may have a place for you to charge your devices, but it is best not to rely on this.

Instead, be prepared with your own portable charger.  If you want to be extra cautious, bring two!

3. A Reusable Water Bottle

Dehydration is common when traveling. You are out of your routine, which means your water intake (or any fluid intake for that matter) is likely different. Combine this with the dry air while onboard aircraft, and you can begin to feel the impacts of your lack of fluid intake.

Dealing with dehydration while traveling can leave you susceptible to jet lag, with dry skin, and can even weaken your immune system – making you vulnerable to illness and germs.

With a reusable water bottle, you can fill up at various spots around the airport after you get through security and keep yourself well-hydrated throughout your entire travel time.

4. Something to Eat

You want to keep your body energized, and feeling nourished while you travel. And that means bringing your own snacks. You may have a long flight, or you may find yourself either dashing between two planes with a short layover – or stuck in the terminal for an extended time. You never know what foods may or may not be available, and you need to have something just in case. So, what to bring? Consider some of these travel-friendly snacks:

• Apple
• Nuts
• Jerky
• Seeds
• Granola
• Trail mix
• Dried fruit

Keep in mind that if you travel via a private jet, you won’t have to worry about food as you can custom order your meal so that you always have something good to eat.

5. Important Toiletries

Sometimes it just feels good to freshen up. You may have a long flight, or you may get stuck due to delays or cancellations. Without your checked bag, you aren’t going to have access to things like a toothbrush, shampoo, deodorant, a hairbrush, and so forth. Pack a travel-size toiletry bag in your carryon so that you are sure to look revived when you reach your destination.

This can make dealing with layovers much less stressful when you know you’ve got stuff to get you through. Some people even suggest throwing a change of clothes (or at least underwear) into your bag, too.

6. Eye Mask – and Ear Plugs

Sleeping on a commercial plane or in a terminal is not ideal, but it is necessary. And, it never fails that just as you decide to catch some zzz’s, the person next to you turns on the overhead light to read a book. To make life easier, pack an eye mask to block out any light. Then, use earplugs to keep sounds to a minimum. You will be able to rest much better – and feel more energized when you get to your destination.

A Perk of Flying Private

When you fly commercial and have checked luggage, your suitcases become separated as soon as you arrive at the airport. You then go through security, wait for an hour or more at your gate before boarding, take your flight, deal with layovers and changing planes, and eventually meet back up with your bags at the baggage claim of your destination. And that’s as long as it makes it there and doesn’t get lost between point A and point B – which happens regularly. If you need anything you have packed between this time, you are out of luck.

Flying private is a much different scenario. Your bags are with you as your board. You don’t have to worry about them getting lost since you won’t be changing flights. And, depending on your jet, you could have your eye on your luggage at all times if you wanted to.

That’s great news, isn’t it? Perhaps the best part is that this is only one of many perks of flying private. You wouldn’t have to worry about these essentials because you could sleep when you want to without getting disturbed, enjoy a nice catered meal, listen to music without headphones – and not disturb anyone, and so on.

So, gather up your empty suitcases, load them up with all the essentials, and head on out to wherever your travels take you.

Yosemite is one of the most beautiful locations in the world however it can be challenging getting there. Find flights to Yosemite that are most convenient to you and your needs. 

Do you have a bucket list? Are there things you would like to do and places you long to see? If these past two years – and a global pandemic – have taught us anything, it is that we need to seize the opportunity as it appears in front of us. We can’t just assume we will have time down the road because it can be gone in an instant.

So if you are ready to take the leap and get more out of life by crossing off your bucket list — then now is the time. And, if private flights to Yosemite are on that list, what better way to get there than to fly a private jet.

Visiting Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is located about a four-hour drive east of San Francisco.  Almost 1,200 square miles, this is one of the larger national parks in the U.S. and averages nearly 5 million visitors every single year. And, it’s no wonder due to the beauty you find all around you when you visit. Here you will find incredibly deep valleys, sky-high ancient sequoias, waterfalls, granite monoliths, and so much more.

Things to Do While There

Before you find flights to Yosemite, you must make a plan. There are so many things to see here – and the area is very vast. Unless you have a lot of time on your hands, there is a good chance you won’t be able to see it all. Therefore, planning ahead and knowing what to see and do can help you narrow things down a bit.

Below we have put together a few of the most incredible things you won’t want to miss on your visit to Yosemite National Park.

• Tunnel View is a pullout and a great photo op of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
• Mist Trail is a hike that leads you up two waterfalls. It’s about 5.4 miles there and back.
• Yosemite Falls is a 1-mile loop hike or a longer 7.2 miler.
• Mariposa Grove where 500 gigantic sequoias are protected. There are different hiking trail options throughout the forest to spark your interest.
• Glacier Point has a lot of lookout points and both easy and challenging hiking trails. You will be able to see Half Dome, Vernal, and Nevada Falls.

Keep in mind that Yosemite Valley is the most commonly visited sport, and therefore you will find more accommodations like paved trails, dining spots, souvenir shops, and the like. Though, it may also require you to be patient due to the volume of visitors. It is still a very special place to visit and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Flights to Yosemite

There are many nearby airports to Yosemite. Well, when we say nearby you should know that we use that term loosely. There are airports, but they aren’t necessarily going to get you to Yosemite without a drive.

For instance, let’s take a look at the commercial airports nearest to Yosemite National Park and just how long of a drive you may face. Keep in mind that the drive time does not account for any California traffic delays.

Fresno/Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is a commonly used airport to access the park. Driving from one to the other takes about 1 hour, 30 minutes to Wawona, and 2 hours, 30 minutes to Yosemite Valley.

Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) in Mammoth Lakes, CA is about a one-hour drive to Tuolumne Meadows or 2 hours, 30 minutes to Yosemite Valley. Though keep in mind the latter requires driving Tioga Road that is not always open during the colder months.

Merced Airport (MCE) located in Merced, CA is about a two-hour drive to the park’s Yosemite Valley area.

Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK) is another option that offers access to Yosemite Valley with a 2 hour, 30-minute drive.

Other choices that involve an even longer drive – say 3 ½ to 4 hours – are available, but most travelers prefer the closer options. Just in case, though, these airports are Oakland International (OAK), Sacramento International (SMF), San Jose International (SJC), and San Francisco International (SFO). You can also reach the part through Las Vegas (LAS) and Reno (RNO), as well.

Important note: Tioga Road (which is what Highway 120 is called as it travels through the park) is not maintained during the winter months. Therefore, traveling from airports such as Mammoth Lakes, Las Vegas, and Reno airports are not viable options during the months of November to May. When the weather gets rough, or there is snowfall, this road will be shut down, and you will not be able to safely access the park from this area.

Why Fly Private to Yosemite?

You have your choice of airports to fly into when visiting Yosemite. But, here is something to think about – why not fly private on your adventure? We are talking about bucket list adventures, for one thing. It’s go big or stay home, right? Treat yourself. Do something nice with those you care about and are traveling with. You will get luxurious accommodations to and from the park – which means you will be ready to roll once you get there and can relax comfortably when you are done.

Two, there is a good chance that you may want to camp while there and, well, with baggage fees and restrictions on commercial airliners, you may be very limited on what you can and can’t bring. You can avoid this hassle when you fly private. Not only is the overall experience more enjoyable, but it can go a lot more smoothly.

Utilizing the smaller airport at Mammoth Yosemite Airport you can gain access to the park very quickly (in about an hour) without having to deal with all the commercial traffic both in and around the airport.

What Are You Waiting For?

There is no better time than the present to knock something off your bucket list – and it should be to consider flights to Yosemite. It is beautiful this time of year, and it is sure to bring you memories to last a lifetime. Make it special, enjoyable, and convenient by booking your trip via a private jet.