Courtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Apr. 16, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. If you are booking a trip any time soon, make sure to check out the article on the most common booking mistakes.  Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

In-Flight Food Tries To Be Tasty
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/13/business/13food.html?ref=travel
Many airlines are changing their whole approach to the food that is served while in the air.  With more combination meals and a greater variety of options, air carrier food sales are expected to increase.  Take a look at this article to learn more.

The 10 Most Common Travel Booking Mistakes
http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/the-10-most-common-travel-booking-mistakes.html?id=4634887
Have you ever booked a plane ticket months in advance in order to save money, and then realized that prices went down four months later?  Many travelers make this mistake at least once in their lives.  Check out this article to learn about the 10 most common travel booking mistakes that you should avoid.

35 Travel Tips Revealed: Top Secrets of Travel Writers
http://www.independenttraveler.com/resources/article.cfm?AID=1052&category=12
Travel writers are usually experts in their field and know the ins and outs of traveling.  In this article they have shared with us 35 great tips they feel we should know.

How To Travel Green
http://www.travel-rants.com/how-to-travel-green/
Trying to become more eco-friendly when it comes to traveling?  Here are some great tips on how to travel green.

How The iPad Is Changing The Way I Travel
http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/12/how-the-ipad-is-changing-the-way-i-travel-already/
Thinking about buying an iPad?  If you are a frequent business traveler or leisure traveler, it’s a great gadget to invest in.  This article provides you with several ways an iPad can change the way you travel.

The Frequent Flier’s Guide To Finding Cheap Airfare
http://lifehacker.com/5509357/
Traveling this summer?  Make sure to check out this article before you book your air travel tickets.  It has some great tips on how to find cheap airfare.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Mar. 25, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. If you are looking for some adventure in the near future, make sure to check out the article on the ten outdoor destinations that have it all.  Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

Busted! How To Ensure Your Luggage Survives A Trip
http://www.frommers.com/articles/6666.html
Having your suitcase break while lugging it through the airport can be quite frustrating.  Here are some luggage horror stories and tips on how to cope when your suitcase malfunctions.

Ten Outdoor Destinations With Everything
http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/19/ten-outdoor-destinations-with-everything/
Have you been so busy with work that you haven’t been able to do anything adventurous in a long time?  If this is applies to you, then make sure you take a look at this article.  It discusses ten outdoor destinations that take adventure to a new level.

Too Sick To Fly? When To Put Yourself On The “No Fly” List
http://www.frommers.com/tips/health_and_travel_insurance/article.cfm?tipID=HEALTH&articleID=6678&t=Too%20Sick%20to%20Fly%3F%20When%20to%20Put%20Yourself%20on%20the%20%22No%20Fly%22%20List
No one wants to be sick, especially when traveling.  However, sometimes bad luck strikes and you fall ill right before a trip.  Take a look at this article for some tips on how to figure out if you are just too sick to fly.

Captive Audience: Crying Babies And Air Travel
http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/22/captive-audience-crying-babies-and-air-travel/
Have you ever been on a flight with a baby that would just not stop crying?  Crying babies on airplanes are many air travelers worst nightmare.  Check out this article for some tips for parents and passengers on what to do with a crying baby in the air.

How Old Is The Plane You’re Flying On?
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/02/01/planes.age.dreamliner/index.html
Many passengers on a plane often wonder about the age of the plane.  Planes are used for several years and the reality is that if you are traveling in the U.S., the plane you are on is most likely more than a decade old.  Take a look at this article to learn more.

To Get A Good Seat, Check The Chart
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/23/business/23road.html
Several air travel booking sites now show you seating charts when you are booking a flight.  These charts sometimes share specific details about the seats such as the amount of legroom in each row.  This article shares with us information on seating charts and how to go about choosing your seat.

Staying Fit While Travelling

Many business travelers feel like staying fit on a business trip is impossible. Business trips are often hectic with back-to-back meetings, client dinners and company events. This doesn’t leave much spare time to exercise and focus on healthy eating habits. However, as long as you stay focused and follow the right steps, staying fit while traveling for business is do-able.

Since you can’t pack a treadmill or elliptical in your suitcase, try to stay at a hotel with a fitness center, which is a feature found in our Courtyard hotels. You only need 30 minutes to get in a great workout (http://exercise.about.com/cs/cardioworkouts/a/burn300calories.htm). If you don’t feel like working out in the fitness center, that doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. There are ways to stay fit without any equipment. Download an application on your smart phone and you can get in a workout without leaving your hotel room. Apps like these will help you keep on track.

• FitDeck Mobile (http://www.fitdeckmobile.com/) – This Blackberry and iPhone app provides simple, convenient and fun fitness routines for every ability level.
• iFitness (http://download.cnet.com/iFitness-for-iPhone/3000-2129_4-10915632.html?tag=rtcol) – This iPhone app has over 180 exercises and has workouts specifically tailored towards business travel.

Some people don’t like exercising indoors. It can feel like the time is going by slowly or that the air is stale. So, why not go for a run outside? If you want to track the distance you are running and calories burned, you can download an application like iMapMy (http://www.imapmy.com/), which will allow you to track your workout. Since you are most likely in an unfamiliar destination, you can also get some sightseeing in while running. Look for nearby trails or sidewalks to avoid any busy streets. As long as there is a safe place to run and good weather, grab your running shoes and hit the road.

Many travelers think that since they have to eat out on business trips, they are going to pack on the pounds. However, this can be easily avoided. Most restaurants have a section in their menu for healthier choices. Check out Healthy Dining Finder (http://www.healthydiningfinder.com/) to find all of the healthy dining options near where you’re staying, or you can download apps which provide nutritional info on many of the food items you eat. Try apps like these to help you navigate the often-unhealthy world of dining out.

• Nutrition Menu-Calorie Counter (http://www.shroomies.com/nutrition_menu/)-This app is an iPhone calorie counter with over 78,000 foods to choose from and enjoy.
• Calorie Count Nutrition Search (http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/755)- This Blackberry app will help you find nutritional details for any food on the go.

Creativity is important when trying to stay fit while traveling. Since you are usually rushed and have a chaotic schedule, you don’t have much time to spare. However, even if you don’t have a lot of free time, you can still think of ways to exercise throughout the day’s events.
• When you are waiting to board the plane at the airport, why not walk around for a while instead of sitting in the terminal?
• If your meetings are near your hotel, walk there instead of driving or taking a cab.
• Why use the elevator when you can walk up the stairs?

Exercising on a daily basis is important to many people, so don’t let a business trip get in the way of that. Staying fit while traveling can be done as long as you take the right steps. If you exercise, eat healthy and use creativity, you may even come back looking and feeling better than before.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Mar. 19, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. If you are planning a road trip in the near future, don’t miss the article on the ten “must have” road trip safety products. Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

3 Reasons Flight Attendants Won’t Allow Passengers To Switch Seats In Flight
http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/galley-gossip-switching-seats-in-flight/
Have you ever switched seats on an airplane and been asked by a flight attendant to return to your original seat? Take a look at this article to learn why seat assignments are sometimes strictly enforced.

Travel Booking For A Good Cause
http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/03/01/travel-booking-for-a-good-cause/
MASSIVEGOOD is a new fundraising initiative that allows travelers to contribute to a good cause. This article provides more detail on this cause and how you can make a difference when booking your next trip.

Corporate Travel Comeback Expected
http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/16/corporate-travel-comeback-expected/
As you probably know, business travel is very profitable for airlines. In order to increase profits and avoid losing business due to the economic downturn, many airlines are rolling out some great perks for customers. Check out this article to learn more.

Ten “Must Have” Road Trip Safety Products
http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/15/ten-must-have-road-trip-safety-products/
When planning a road trip, it is crucial to be prepared so you can stay safe on the road. Check out this article to learn about ten products that you should have before leaving on your next road trip.

World’s Most On-Time Airlines
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35648431/ns/travel-business_travel/
Last month, we posted an article on the world’s most delayed airports. This article is quite the opposite. Take a look at it to see which are the world’s most on-time airports.

The Gadling Guide To Finding Power Outlets At The Airport
http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/11/the-gadling-guide-to-powering-gadget-airport-outlet/
Finding power outlets at airports that are not in use is often not as easy as you would assume. This article has some great tips for how to find these outlets quickly and efficiently.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Mar. 12, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, so make sure to check out the article on ten great places to celebrate the holiday. Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

9 Tips For Dealing With The Most Stressful Travel Disasters
http://www.fodors.com/news/story_3899.html
No matter how prepared you are, sometimes travel disasters are unavoidable. However, as long as you deal with them correctly your trip may not be ruined. Check this article out for 9 tips on how to deal with the most stressful travel disasters.

Ten Best Places To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
http://blogs.nationalgeographic.com/blogs/intelligenttravel/2009/03/green-guide-to-st-patricks-day.html
St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching. If you are still looking for a great place to celebrate, take a look at this article for some fun ideas.

Throwing Exit-Row Seats Into The “For Sale” Bin
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/09/business/09road.html?ref=travel
Exit-row seats typically have the most leg room, which is why travelers sitting in coach prefer to sit in the exit-row. Passengers in elite-status programs typically get priority for these seats when flying. However, the assigning of the exit-row seats may become a bit more complicated now. Read this article to find out why.

Handling Medical Emergencies Abroad
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/35544002/ns/travel-tips/
Medical emergencies can happen anywhere and can often be difficult to deal with. However, when a medical emergency happens while traveling abroad, you need to make sure to be prepared. This article can help provide you with information on how to handle medical emergencies when you are far from home.

3-Hour Rule Ready To Become Reality
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/35766268/ns/travel-rob_lovitt_columns/
We have been hearing a lot of chatter about the new DOT rules on how long a plane can sit on a runway when holding passengers. After learning that over 1,000 plans were stuck on the ground for 3+ hour last year, it is clear that new laws need to be made to avoid this. Take a look at this article and find out about the 3-hour rule and when it is going into effect.

Amtrak Introduces WiFi On Acela Express Trains in NE USA
http://www.businesstravellogue.com/accommodation/amtrak-introduces-wifi-on-acela-express-trains-in-ne-usa.html
If you live in the Northeast of the U.S. and often take the train when traveling for business, here is some great news. Amtrak now has free WiFi on all of their Acela Express trains connecting cities in the Northeast. Read this article to find out more.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Feb. 26, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. Don’t miss the article on how to find the most comfortable airline seat.  If you are flying any time soon, you can definitely use this to your advantage.  Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

NTSB Asks To Monitor Pilots’ Talk In Cockpits
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2010-02-23-recorders_N.htm
Government investigators are looking into routinely recording pilots’ conversations in the cockpit to make sure they are focusing on their job.  This has led to anger amongst pilot unions who think this is an invasion of privacy.  Check out this article to learn more.

The World’s 18 Strangest Airports
http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/transportation/4346192.html?page=1
When designing airports, engineers need to ensure the structure is as safe as can be for pilots and passengers alike. Sometimes, this requires extra creativity to make the best use of the space they have.  Take a look at this article to see the world’s strangest airport designs.

How To Find The Most Comfortable Airline Seat
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/deals/inside/2010-02-25-airplane-seats_N.htm
Airline seats seem to be getting smaller and smaller as the years go by.  However, there are ways to make sure you end up with one of the more comfortable seats on your next flight.  This article gives you all the information you need to find one of these seats on your next flight.

Magazine Ranks Most Bike-Friendly Cities
http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/magazine-ranks-most-bike-friendly-cities/
Do you like to bring your bike along with you when traveling, but aren’t sure which cities are the most bike friendly?  Take a look at this article to learn about the most bike-friendly cities for visitors.

Leaving The Trash Behind
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/business/energy-environment/23recycle.html
Recycling is a large problem at airports and has the potential to create environmental problems.  Even though most airports have recycling receptacles available, airport procedures often make it hard for travelers to use the system properly.  However, the environmental group Green America has now begun a campaign to assess this problem.

Dos and Don’t In The Developing World
http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/22/dos-and-donts-in-the-developing-world/
Traveling to other countries can be a huge culture shock for many people.  In order to make sure your next international trip goes as planned, plan ahead.  Take a look at this article for some tips on what to do and not to do in the developing world.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Jan. 29, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. Make sure you don’t miss the article on the 7 websites every traveler needs to know about. These websites may come in handy on your next business trip. Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

Trick, Repack And Rethink Your Way Around The New Luggage Fees
http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/20/trick-repack-and-rethink-your-way-around-the-new-luggage-fees/
Checking your bags can be a pain, especially with the new fees certain airlines are now charging. Take a look at this article to learn a few tricks about how to get around checking your bags and paying that extra fee.

Security Gripe? There’s An App For That
http://travelandleisure.com/blogs/carry-on/2010/1/11/security-gripe-theres-an-app-for-that
Do you ever feel like you should abe able to voice your opinion about how effective you think an airport’s security system is? If you have a smart phone, you are now able to let TSA know how you feel. An application has been created that allows travelers to rate airport security screening via a TSA survey. Check out this article to learn more.

Charge Your Gadgets With Or Without An Outlet
http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/19/charge-your-gadgets-with-or-without-an-outlet-the-igo-charge-a/
Having your phone run out of battery and no outlet in sight is very frustrating. However, with an iGo charger, you don’t need to worry about looking for an outlet. This article discusses how this charger can help you out the next time your phone dies, no matter where you are.

Seven Websites Every Traveler Needs
http://travelandleisure.com/tips/6654-seven-websites-every-traveler-needs
Traveling to different cities can be very difficult when you don’t know your way around. This article provides seven different websites that come in handy for every traveler, whether they need subway directions, a currency converter or even directions to a nearby public restroom.

Business Traveling On Holidays
http://business-travel-tips.suite101.com/article.cfm/business_traveling_on_holidays
Have you ever had to go on a business trip and miss a special family celebration or an important birthday? Sometimes you have no control over when these trips pop up. Check out this article for some ideas on how to make traveling during a holiday or important event less of an inconvenience.

The Tipping Point
http://travelandleisure.com/articles/the-tipping-point/1
Many people who have to travel internationally are unsure of the tipping “rules” from country to country. Take a look at this article for a guide on how to tip around the world.

iPod Accessories For Travel
http://www.travelpost.com/articles/ipod-travel-accessories.aspx
iPod’s are extremely popular nowadays and are a must have for traveling. Check out this article to find out which iPod travel accessories you should buy in order to enjoy your music experience while on the go.

Thanks for helping us keep Courtyard on the go.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Jan. 8, 2010

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. Make sure to check out the article on the best places to dine in 20 airports around the country for some great tips on where to eat when you are stuck in an airport. Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

Travel Photos: How To Take Great Photos While Traveling
http://www.travelpost.com/articles/travel-photo-tips.aspx
Have you ever missed out on a great shot during your vacation because your camera malfunctioned? This article discusses a few basic photography tips for those travelers who enjoy documenting their trips with photographs.

Airport Dining Survival Guide
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34044235/ns/travel-business_travel/
We often get hungry at airports since it is recommended to get to the airport at least two hours before our scheduled flight. Some airports provide better dining options than others. Check out this article to discover the best places to dine in 20 airports across the country.

Upgrading Using Miles: A Wild Fare Chase?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33403458/ns/travel-business_travel/
Using your frequent flier miles to upgrade your ticket can often be very confusing as each airline has different rules that are always changing. This article goes over several different airlines policies regarding upgrading your flight using miles.

Roadside Attractions – Historic To Hilarious: The Favorite Top 10
http://www.travelpost.com/articles/road-trip.aspx
Do you often travel by car for hours at a time? Have you ever wondered what types of attractions are out there that could help split up your trip? If so, this article is a must read. It details 10 of the world’s largest and most unique attractions on the road.

Prevent Wrinkles On The Road
http://businesstravel.about.com/od/luggageandpackingtips/tp/how_to_prevent_wrinkles.htm
Unpacking your suitcase in your hotel room and finding that the dress shirt you will be wearing at tomorrow’s meeting is wrinkled can be very frustrating. Check out this article for some great tips on how to prevent wrinkles on the road.

Save On Phone Bills When Traveling For Business
http://business-travel-tips.suite101.com/article.cfm/save_on_phone_bills_when_traveling_for_business
Making several phone calls a day while on a business trip is inevitable. Most business travelers need to check in with the office several times a day and keep in touch with their friends and family, which can get very pricey. Take a look at this article to learn how to save on phone bills while traveling for business.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – New Year's Edition

We want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. If you plan on spending the evening out or traveling this New Year’s Eve, we hope you have a great time.

Here’s this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. Since New Year’s Eve is here, make sure you don’t miss the article on America’s top 5 New Year’s Eve travel destinations. Also, feel free to use the comment section to let us know if we left out any articles that should have made it into this week’s roundup. Enjoy!

January’s Snows Means Sales
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/27/travel/27pracdeals.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss
Have you been trying to plan a vacation but are unsure as to when you should go? January is looking like the best time to take that much needed vacation. With low passenger traffic and great deals, the beginning of the year is a great time to travel.

America’s Top 5 New Year’s Eve Travel Destinations
http://www.uptake.com/blog/holiday-festivals/new-years-eve-travel-destinations_8368.html
What are you doing New Year’s Eve? Check out this article to hear about the five best and most unique New Year’s Eve travel destinations in America for 2009.

Traveling the Turnpike and Bridges with E-Z Pass
http://business-road-travel.suite101.com/article.cfm/traveling_the_turnpike_and_bridges_with_ez_pass
Who wants to sit in traffic at the tolls during a business road trip? Automatic toll collection can end up saving business travelers who are traveling by car a ton of time. Check out this article to find out more about the E-Z Pass system.

Travel Health Tips For Business Travelers
http://business-travel-tips.suite101.com/article.cfm/travel_health_tips_for_business_travelers
Becoming ill while on a business trip can be an awful experience. This article shares with us some great travel health tips for business travelers.

Will New FAA Pilot Rest Rules Affect Commuting?
http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/travelers_check/archives/2009/12/will_new_faa_pi.html
The FAA may be placing new rules on limiting pilots commuting next year to assure that they are rested up for every flight. Check out this article to find out what affect this could have on travelers.

How To Prepare For A Business Road Trip
http://business-road-travel.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_prepare_for_a_business_road_trip
If you often travel by car for your business trips, you know that it involves more than just loading up your luggage and filling up the gas tank. Check out this article for some great tips on preparing for a business road trip.

GoCourtyard's Weekly Round-Up – Holiday Edition

We want to wish everyone happy holidays! If you are traveling this week, we hope you arrive at your destination safely and have a great trip.

Here’s a special holiday edition of this week’s round-up of travel news, tips and info that we found to be the most interesting and helpful. Make sure to check out all of the articles for some great ideas and advice on traveling over the holidays. Enjoy!

5 Fun Christmas Travel Games For Kids
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2239271/5_fun_christmas_travel_games_for_kids.html
Children almost always get bored traveling, whether they are in a plane, train or in a car. Check out this article to find out what games you can buy to keep your kids entertained while on the move.

“Up In The Air” Spotlights Airline’s Highest Fliers
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/15/business/15road.html?_r=1&ref=travel
Has anyone seen the new George Clooney movie “Up In The Air”? Check out this article to learn a few secrets about the world of air travel that could possibly help you out on your next trip.

Motion Sickness Bracelets, Pills & Patches: Which Remedy Actually Cures
http://www.businesstravellogue.com/travel-tips/motion-sickness-remedies.html
Are you scared motion sickness may kick in while traveling this Christmas? Motion sickness is an awful feeling that many people think is unavoidable. Take a look at this article for remedies that may cure you from that dizzy feeling.

The Flight Before Christmas
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/20/travel/20pracholiday.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss
Are you traveling over Christmas? Here is a holiday checklist that will help you navigate through the airport and prepare you for the worst to avoid all possible disasters.

Working Mothers Find Some Peace On The Road
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/01/business/01travel.html
We know that being a working mother can often be exhausting. Making dinner and putting the kids to bed after an 8 hour workday can wear anyone out. Check out this article to learn why some working mothers enjoy traveling for business.

Holiday Business Travel Tips: Find Last Minute Deals on Christmas Travel, Buy Christmas Insurance
http://business-air-travel.suite101.com/article.cfm/holiday_business_travel_tips
Are you traveling for business over the holiday or just trying to find some last minute Christmas travel deals? Take a look at this article for some great tips to ease your travels and not break your bank account.

Top 10 Airline Meals
http://information.travel.aol.com/news-and-tips/airline-meals
Dining at 30,000 feet is usually not too enjoyable due to airplane food not being quite up to par. However, airlines are beginning to understand that their passengers expect a decent meal while they are in the air. This article details 10 of the best airline meals for first class passengers.

Top Tips On Coping With Christmas Travel
http://www.theage.com.au/travel/traveller-tips/top-tips-on-coping-with-christmas-travel-20091211-ko6l.html
If you are traveling this Christmas, then this article is a must read. It has some great tips on how to arrive at your Christmas destination with a smile on your face.

How To Navigate Through Security Like A Pro
http://business-air-travel.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_navigate_through_security_like_a_pro
Check out this article for tips on how to navigate through airport security quickly, especially if you are traveling over the holidays. Security lines may be unavoidable but by planning ahead and packing efficiently, you can pass through security checkpoints quicker than ever.