Virgin America teams up with Morgans Hotels

by Melanie Nayer on

Exciting things are afoot over at Virgin America. We’re expecting to hear about new routes any day now, but in the meantime, Virgin America is hooking up with a new partner: Morgans Group Hotels.

Starting today, Virgin America’s Elevate Frequent Flyer program members can earn 1,000 points per stay at participating Morgans Hotel Group properties toward free Virgin America flights. The Morgans Group hotels have properties in New York, Miami, San Francisco, Boston, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles – all Virgin-served destinations.

Here’s how it works:

Stay at a Morgans Hotels property and earn 1,000 miles per stay, which can be used toward a Virgin America flight through December 31, 2010. To receive points, you’ll have to book via 800.606.6090 or morganshotelgroup.com.

[More information available here, via the company press release]

Bring American dollar bills – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you’re going abroad, getting local currency from an ATM attached to a bank is cost effective and easy, but the problem is that you only get large bills, and many times the attached bank is not open to exchange for smaller bills.

When traveling, especially in South America and Africa, I have found it helpful to bring American one dollar bills for tips. There’s nothing worse than trying to ask someone who you want to tip to make change.

Dollar bills are almost always greatly appreciated, and are typically very tough to find once you’re abroad.

Counterpoint: Don’t pay in dollars – International travel tip

How to lose weight on a cruise – Cruise tip

by Gadling Staff on

Avoid the elevators, and use the stairs.

Ships have lots of decks with lots of stairwells – and stairs. But don’t think of them as stairs; think of them as giant, sea-going step-climbers.

Bonus: These step-climbers are carpeted and surrounded by museum-quality art!

Register with the Department of State – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

Utilize the U.S. Department of State‘s Travel Registration service. Yes, it seems like an invasion of privacy and feels like Big Brother is watching. However, in the case of natural disaster or political unrest, there is no better group of people to share your travel plans.

It also works in reverse — if you must be contacted in case of an emergency stateside.

Travelers register their personal information, where he or she will be staying, and emergency contact information.

The State Department adheres to the Privacy Act and will not share a traveler’s itinerary or other information with anyone.

Tip the maître d’ upon embarkation – Cruise tip

by Gadling Staff on

While dining in the main dining room is an experience not to be missed, dining with a group of three or four other couples is an experience most of us can do without. For those wanting a romantic dinner with their partner, you’ll quickly realize the tables for two are in high demand.

Upon embarkation, introduce yourself to the maître d’ and let him know of any special occasions you may be celebrating. Don’t forget to let the maître d’ know that you would appreciate a table for two — and offer him a gratuity for his time and consideration.