Global Entry Vs. TSA PreCheck

By: Courtney Salcedo

Traveling around the world is one of the most exciting and enjoyable parts of life; a privilege that comes with endless rewards. While traveling is without a doubt an incredible experience, it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to airports. If you are an avid traveler, or even just a frequent flyer, taking advantage of time-saving tools such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are a must. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are different programs with the same general goal: helping travelers spend less time at the airport. Let's compare the main differences between these programs and explore which, if not both, programs are best for you.

Global Entry primarily helps travelers when returning to the United States from traveling abroad According to the U.S. Customs & Border Protection, upon arrival in the United States it "allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers." To sum it up: this enables travelers to skip the lines (which can take hours) at customs and immigration by checking in at a kiosk and scanning their passports and fingerprints. The kiosk will print out a receipt and travelers can proceed to baggage claim, customs and exit the airport. Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck eligibility at participating airports making it a double win for travelers.

TSA Precheck is a government-sponsored program that grants approved passengers on domestic--and some international-- flights expedited screening. PreCheck travelers do not need to remove their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets, meaning less time stuck in security lines and more time relaxing before the flight. There are 65 airlines and more than 180 airports that offer PreCheck lane access, which can be used when traveling in the country or exiting the country. One important thing to note: unless the boarding pass clearly shows the TSA PreCheck logo, travelers will need to provide their Trusted (Known) Traveler number at check-in, or have it saved to their frequent flyer profile.

A few things to keep in mind when deciding between participating in one program or both, are the differences in the application process. TSA PreCheck is only available to U.S. citizens, nationals and residents. There is no age restriction to apply for TSA PreCheck. Global Entry is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, and citizens of Colombia, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, and Mexico. (Depending on the country, visas may be required.) Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian's consent to participate. For traveling families, only the program member can participate in Global Entry. It does not automatically extend to family members, so it is important that everyone in the family is a program participant to avoid separation at the airport. TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, extends to children under the age of 12 traveling with a PreCheck approved parent or legal guardian.

The cost differs between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, albeit not by much. TSA PreCheck costs $85 for a five-year membership and Global Entry is $100 for a five-year membership. Keep in mind: Global entry includes TSA PreCheck eligibility, so the $15 difference is worth it when it comes to Global Entry.

To apply for TSA PreCheck, you will need to fill out an application and schedule an interview at one of the 380 enrollment centers across the country. Once the interview is complete, it can take up to two weeks to receive written notification of approval or denial.

To apply for Global Entry, you will need to create an account on the Trusted Traveler Program Site and complete an application. (Everyone, regardless of age, must create an account.) Upon completion of the application and submission of the application fee, CBP will review the application and grant or deny conditional approval. Once you have conditional approval, it's time to set up an interview at a Global Entry Application Center. (Applicants must schedule individual interviews.) After the interview, if approved, you will receive your Trusted (Known) Traveler Number, which can be used for TSA PreCheck eligibility when booking tickets. 

When it comes to deciding between Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and beginning the application process, this is the time when having a Reid Travel Advisor is so important. At Reid Travel, our team of Travel Advisors are experts when it comes to assisting clients with enrolling in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. To learn more about these programs, or to get help in starting your application, call Reid Travel today. We strive to make travel as stress-free as possible for our clients, and these programs are an excellent way to do just that.

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Egypt

If you are looking to step back in time, Egypt is the destination for you. Egypt links northeast Africa and the Middle East dates to the time of the ancient pharaohs. Considered a cradle of civilization, Egypt is home to many ancient sites that sit along the Nile River. These include the pyramids at Giza, the Great Sphinx, as well as Luxor's Karnack Temple and the Valley of the Kings.

The Luxor Museum, the Luxor and Karnack temples are highlights of any visit. The museum overlooks the west bank of the Nile River and has a wonderful collection of ancient artifacts. On display is a range of magnificent pharaonic art, pottery, and jewelry. The ancient walls of the Karnak Temple are covered in hieroglyphics as many of the tombs in the Valley of the Kings. The vast Karnak Temple complex is the largest religious site built by man and expanded over 1300 years. During your visit, take the opportunity to see impressive statues of Ramses II, the great halls and pylons.

The West Bank of Luxor is a fascinating area. Marvel at the glorious temples and tombs of Egypt's most legendary pharaohs, which are constructed 3,500 years ago. This valley was once the royal burial ground for other leaders such as Tutankhamun and Ramses II. Nearby is the beautifully painted Temple of Hatshepsut. A beloved, ruler, known as the Splendor of Splendors, Hatshepsut was a rare female pharaoh and one of ancient Egypt's most successful rulers.

If you are looking for adventure, consider embarking on a desert jeep safari ride into the sights of the Arabian Desert. Desolate rough terrain and vast sand dunes offer an excellent opportunity for photographs. Visit a remote Bedouin settlement where you will be welcomed by hospitable nomads. During your visit, explore the camp and learn about Bedouin history and culture while enjoying aromatic sweet tea and flat unleavened bread. Walk up a rocky slope on a nearby hill, where you will experience the mesmerizingly beautiful vista of the desert.

After spending the day touring, you'll certainly have a hearty appetite and want to enjoy a variety of Egyptian dishes. Egyptian cuisine makes heavy use of vegetables and fruit from the region's rich Nile Valley and Delta. It shares similarities with the cuisine of the Eastern Mediterranean region which includes specialties such as rice-stuffed vegetables, grape leaves, shawarma, and kebab. Satisfy your sweet tooth with baklava, which is a rich, sweet dessert, made of layers of filo dough, chopped nuts and is held together with syrup or honey.

Egypt is a hot dessert with generally dry conditions all over the country. However, the Mediterranean coast receives rainfall in the winter which is December through March. These months bring cool, windy and humid conditions. The best type of clothing to bring is lightweight cotton or linen, durable walking shoes, and a wide-brimmed hat. These will keep you cool and comfortable in the sweltering heat.

There are various ways to explore the Middle East and Ancient Egypt. However, the best way to explore this region is on the Ancient Discoveries sailings aboard Oceania's Nautica. Depart from Istanbul; experience various destinations throughout the Middle East and disembark in Dubai. On this voyage, you will have two full days in Luxor.

Egypt Facts:

Most ancient pyramids were built as tombs for pharaohs.

The afterlife was extremely important to Egyptians. They used a process known as mummification which they believed resulted in the soul living on forever.

The Egyptian alphabet contained more than 700 hieroglyphics.

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Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach

By: Courtney Salcedo

From the moment I arrived at the Acqualina Resort & Spa, I knew my expectations I might have had were going to be blown away. This would be my first time at the Spa where I had scheduled a ' deep tissue with hot stone massage'.

Unfamiliar with the property, I asked the valet for directions to the Spa. Instead of simply telling me where to go, a valet employee accompanied me, making sure I needed nothing else before leaving. At the Spa reception desk, the attendants were incredibly kind and courteous which set the tone for a relaxing and pampering visit.

After checking in, I was offered a choice of two different tea blends: a relaxing blend and an uplifting blend. My choice, the relaxing blend, was served on a beautiful wooden board next to a salt rock crystal which is known for its healing properties. The Acqualina incorporates this crystal into many of their treatments and features a salt rock wall in the relaxation room to promote healing, relaxation, and well-being.

  Now that I have enjoyed my tea and feeling totally relaxed, a Spa attendant gave me a tour of the 20,000 square foot facility which features state-of-the-art treatment rooms, healing heat and water rituals, relaxation lounges featuring the salt rock wall, a private outdoor area equipped with a beautiful pool, hot tub and dining space where guests can enjoy lunch and a drink. It is a must for guests to arrive at least one hour prior to their treatment to enjoy these various areas of the spa.

The last stop on the tour is the women's locker room (there are his and her locker rooms) equipped with lockers to store guests' items, fully stocked showers, sauna, steam room, and an experience shower. The steam room is simply gorgeous; it is dimly lit with large tile benches designed to allow guests to sit back and relax. The ceiling is covered in LED lights that emit multi-colored soft lights, creating a tranquil environment. The all-wood dry sauna is perfection and is an excellent way to sweat out any toxins and impurities from the body.

A special feature at the spa is an ice fountain located between the steam room and the sauna. You are given cool, eucalyptus-scented hand towels are perfect for placing ice inside and rubbing along the body as you alternate between the steam and sauna rooms. This helps the body cool down while stimulating blood flow, promoting and well-being.

After thoroughly enjoying the different areas of the facility, I proceeded to the relaxation room to await my masseuse. She graciously introduced herself and escorted me to the treatment rooms at which time she would ask what areas I would like to focus on during my massage. I explained my areas of concern and then she asked what kind of emotional healing I would like. This was something that stood out for me and made my massage feel even more special. Upon explaining my emotional concerns, she selected two different essential oil blends, placed them on my wrist and had me choose the one I felt would be the best fit for me. Both scents were divine; I chose a rose blend which was used in combination with the massage oil. The only disappointing part of my massage: it ended! It was heavenly- I could have easily spent hours there. But all good things must come to an end. My masseuse gave me a lovely gift to remember my time at the Acqualina Spa: a salt rock crystal.
   
Click here to learn more about the Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach 

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Fall Season Cruises: Add some color to

By: Rebecca Freeman 

That wonderful time of year when the air is crisp, and the leaves are showing off their splendid fall colors will soon be here, and it is not to be missed! Taking a fall foliage cruise in New England, Canada, and Nova Scotia is the most luxurious way to experience this season. This a perfect trip for all of us with an appreciation for history and picturesque locations. Many luxury cruises provide fall foliage cruises. They fill up fast, so if you missed last year (2019), 2020 is an option to be considered. The ports of call vary depending on the sailing you select, but here a few of the most popular:

Quebec City: The city is one of the oldest European settlements in North America. French influence still echoes from the language, cuisine, and architecture. Explore the rich history as you walk through the quaint streets, churches, cafes, and abandoned military fortifications. These sights will give you a new appreciation of this ancient city. Journey through the Old Town and muster up the will power to avoid buying the eclectic array of items in the shops. You'll be glad you didn't miss this shopping spree! 

Halifax, Novia Scotia- is known as the city of trees. For a panoramic view of the region head to the Halifax Citadel, constructed in the early half of the 20th century, Newport regained importance as a resort for wealthy industrialists: the Astor's, Belmont's, and Vanderbilt's. Their ostentatious summer cottages modeled after European palaces elevated Newport to the position of "Queen of Summer Resorts". Visit at least one of these mansions; then walk the shady cobblestone streets to view more Victorian homes. 

Bar Harbor, Maine- The French explorer, Samuel de Champlain, was credited with discovering the area he named "Isles des Monts Deserts" which translates to "island of barren mountains". The locals refer to the area as "where the mountains meet the sea". In 1916 conservation-minded residents came together to purchase an estimated 33,000 acres of land and donated it to the government as Acadia National Park. Typical tours of the park include guided walks, bike trips, and horse-drawn carriage rides winding around the 1,530-foot-high Cadillac Mountain (the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard). 

Saguenay- Home of the imposing Saguenay Fjord. Experience Canada's Saguenay National Park which winds its way through the St. Lawrence River and meets the ancient glaciated foothills of the Laurentian Mountains. During the fall season, the water is tinted a rich tea color due to fallen leaves and pine-needles of the forested slopes. Hiding in the hills are wolves, bears, deer, lynx, beaver, moose and other animals. 

New England Cuisine- New England's cuisine was influenced by the English during the colonial period. Foods such as succotash, Indian corn, and green corn were colonial staples. Other groups such as Native Americans have also greatly influenced the cuisine. Enjoy an array of dishes such as clam chowder, lobster and other types of seafood. 

Canadian Cuisine- While in Nova Scotia and Quebec, there are a variety of foods to savor. A few local favorites are clam chowder, and scallops (fried or grilled). In addition, save your appetite for other local dishes such as Nova Scotian classic Hodge Podge, lobster and the official snack of Halifax- the Donair. 

There is certainly a lot to consider, but your friends at Reid Travel are here to help you with all the details for a perfect trip. Give us a call and together we'll add some color to your fall experience. 

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Crystal Endeavor debuting August 2020

by: Rebecca Freeman

Crystal Cruises will be introducing the Crystal Endeavor. This is the world's most spacious luxury expedition yacht with excellent state of the art features such as the PC6 Polar Class specifications and anchor free-dynamic positioning technology. Starting her journey in August of 2020 she will embark on 12 extraordinary trips from the Russian Far East to the coastal wonders of Japan. Once aboard this ship, you'll experience luxury and hallmark amenities to be enjoyed during your sailing.

From extreme expedition voyages to exotic yachting sojourns, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises reveals a world where luxury and service are synonymous with bold discovery. Welcoming just 200 sophisticated travelers in contemporary elegance the Crystal Endeavor is quite a stylish yacht. From critically-acclaimed cuisine and a generous pour of the finest wines and spirits to insightful destination enrichment and expert-led destination enrichment and myriad options for thrilling discovery ashore, Crystal Endeavor embraces rugged adventure with refined elegance.

Amenities: The all-inclusive Signature hallmark amenities will allow guests to feel welcome and enjoy their experience to the fullest. You will enjoy six-star service with the industry-leading ratio of 1 staff per guest, award-winning cuisine, unlimited champagne, and much more.

Dinning: Umi Uma- For guests who want to enjoy a unique Japanese-Peruvian cuisine will certainly give your taste buds new flavors to enjoy.
Prego- Enjoy sophisticated Northern Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist.
Bistro Endeavor- A European style with a full breakfast and lunch menu. You can also enjoy an assortment of espresso and teas.
Waterside- This elegant dining room serves Michelin-inspired menus of classic favorites and modern specialties for breakfast lunch and dinner.

Aboard Crystal Cruises you will be educated by their destination experts and will gain a new perspective. Crystal's 6-star service will allow guests to feel comfortable and welcomed at sea. We look forward to having many more clients aboard our luxurious yacht, the Crystal Endeavor.

Contact us for more details on their upcoming 2020 itineraries.
Call Reid Travel to Book! (561) 395-6670

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