www.fairweathertraveler.com
Uncategorized
-
A Surprising Stop in the Men’s Room at SeaTac Airport
“Let’s talk sense to the American people.” Adlai Stevenson (2 – time Democratic Presidential Candidate) I may end up offending someone with this post, but I can’t help but say something. Travel has a way of surprising me, even when I thought I’ve seen just about everything. Airports are especially good at surprising me. In…
-
Hawaii
Our recent trip to Oahu in the Hawaii Islands was one of those vacations I will remember for a long time. Oahu is both beautiful and ugly. The beautiful parts of the island are filled with ocean views, warm weather, friendly people, and enough adventure to keep you busy every day. The ugly is the…
-
What to Do Before You Leave Home for a Trip
There is nothing quite like the excitement of getting ready for a trip. We always have our next big getaway planned, in advance, just to give us something to look forward to. Whether we are heading out for a weekend getaway, a vacation, a cruise, or a long-awaited adventure overseas, the days before leaving can…
-
How to Find Cheap Flights, Hotels, and Rental Cars Without Ruining Your Trip
There is nothing quite like the thrill of finding a travel deal that makes you feel like you outsmarted the system. I am guilty of this. Recently, I saved $60 on a $6000 trip. A cheap flight, a bargain hotel, and a rental car rate that does not cause your wallet to cry can make…
-
Booked on Board: How We’re Saving for Our Next Cruise One Year in Advance
There’s something dangerously exciting about being on a cruise ship, feeling relaxed, well-fed, and completely convinced that booking another cruise right then and there is a brilliant idea. That’s exactly what we did. And we have done this several times in the past. A couple weeks ago, while we were still on our last cruise,…
-
Why Non–Dog-Friendly Hotel Rooms Still Matter
Last night I stayed in a hotel room in Olympia, Washington. It was not bad, but unfortunately and it seems more and more common lately, my hotel room smelled like a dog. I know there have been several times recently, while traveling with my wife where we have refused to stay in certain rooms because…
-
A Disappointing Stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Houston Hobby Airport
This week I’m in Houston, Texas. I have to say, I love Texas. As far as I’m concerned, Texas is God’s country. I hope by now, you know, Fairweather Traveler is all about honest travel experiences, whether good, bad, and the “never again.” This time, we booked a cruise out of Galveston and let the…
-
Las Vegas: Where Common Sense Goes to Take a Nap
I just returned from an annual polygraph conference in Las Vegas. It used to be inexpensive, but now, or since COVID the prices of everything in Las Vegas have sky-rocketed. Another thing about Vegas is it is one of those places that doesn’t ease you in gently. It grabs you by the collar the moment…
-
Why You Should Reserve Your Rental Car Early, and Keep Checking Back
I know I posted something about rental cars before, but thought it needed to be emphasized. I ALWAYS use Costco Travel when renting a car. I have found that their rental fees are MUCH cheaper than the name brands’ websites when planning a trip. I know most travelers obsess over flights and hotels while treating…
-
What Every Traveler Needs to Know About Cellphone Charges When Traveling Outside the United States
Traveling can be exciting, especially visiting new countries, learning and experiencing their cultures, and finding unforgettable new experiences. But one thing that can quickly ruin the post-trip high is a surprise cellphone bill. Several years ago, my wife and I took a cruise. We figured since we did not have cell coverage on the ship,…
-
Thinking about visiting Cuba?
I’ve been there numerous times, but never to Havana or anywhere outside of Guantanamo Bay. From what I have seen, it is a beautiful place and an often overlooked and seemingly forbidden destination. At least if you are a United States citizen. For many Americans, including myself, visiting Cuba has long been a dream because…
-
What a headache!
I’m sure you have had the same type of headache. Planning a trip. For some reason, I have become the travel agent for my family and extended family. Normally, my wife is very good about do this, but this time, she just gave me the reins and said, “book It.” I’m not only booking a…
-
The Bahamas: Sun, Sand, and Serenity Await
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of tropical beauty, relaxation, and adventure, the Bahamas should be at the top of your travel list. Just a short flight from the U.S. East Coast, this island paradise offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a warm, welcoming culture that will make you want to stay forever. It…
-
How to Stay Fit and Work Out While Traveling
No Gym Needed! So my wife and I are in our early 60’s now and finding it more and more difficult to keep the pounds off. We don’t use the gym. My wife walks and watches what she eats, while I sort of watch what I eat and work out every day on our treadmill,…
-
Vacation down under – Sydney, Australia
A very good friend of mine is proud of the fact that he has been to every single United States national park. I have not been to all of them. I would say I have been to most, at least all those in the western United States. When I was a kid, my parents used…