The Travel Professor
Join me on a journey across the broad spectrum of interesting travel topics. We’ll discuss destinations domestic and abroad, some familiar and some off the beaten path. We take a look at suppliers like cruise lines, air carriers and tour operators and find their bargains and special offerings. Got questions? Email thetravelprofessor@gmail.com.

Monday, December 10, 2007

Viva Las Vegas

It’s about an hour flight up to Las Vegas from Phoenix or Tucson with nonstop service on Southwest or USAirways. There are frequent departures to select from but I’ve discovered that the 1st flight of the day or early in the afternoon seems to work best with checking in and getting through security in a timely fashion.

The 7:00am-10:00am departure window is packed with travelers and flights so you have to struggle with the volume of other passengers. Avoid this if possible.

Another consideration when you’re planning your flights is to try and avoid the last departure of the day. Any flight irregularities or if you’re running late and you won’t get out of town until tomorrow. Earlier flights will give you more options and flexibility.

And if possible leave a day or two before you really have to be somewhere. The cruise ship will not wait for you nor will they hold your tee times. Invest in your peace of mind and spend a night or two in your destination prior to your scheduled event.

I’m off the retrieve my luggage. I’ll just follow the racket of the slot machines as I head towards baggage claim.

Two constants in Vegas: 1) slot machines are everywhere and 2) you’ll never see a clock.

Happy travels!