Smith-Hairston Travel: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures

Expert tips, firsthand experiences, and insider travel insights to help you explore the world with ease and excitement!
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New Travel Rules for 2025

Starting next year, travelers to the U.S., UK, and EU will need to meet new entry requirements, including REAL ID for U.S. domestic flights, ETA for the UK, and ETIAS for the EU. Stay informed and plan ahead!

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Everything You Need to Know About REAL ID

Navigating the world of travel and identification requirements can be confusing, but understanding REAL ID is essential for your future travel plans. Here, we break down everything you need to know about this federally accepted form of identification and why it matters.
 

What Is REAL ID?

REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets minimum security standards set by the federal government. These standards were established to make identity verification more secure and consistent across all states. While upgrading to a REAL ID is optional, it is highly recommended for anyone planning to fly domestically or access certain federal facilities.


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The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Your Safety Net Abroad

Traveling abroad is an exciting opportunity to explore new cultures, taste diverse cuisines, and make lifelong memories. But amidst the excitement, ensuring your safety and staying informed should be a top priority. That’s where the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) comes in.
 

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Smooth Sailing Through Security: The Benefits of TSA Pre-check and CLEAR

Are you tired of waiting in long lines at airport security checkpoints? Do you dread the hassle of removing your shoes, belts, and laptops every time you travel? If so, TSA Pre-check and CLEAR might just be the solutions for which you’ve been searching. In this blog post, we'll explore the advantages of these expedited security programs and how you can easily obtain them.

TSA Pre-check: Streamlined Security Screening

TSA Pre-check is a program that allows travelers to enjoy expedited screening at participating airports across the United States. With TSA Pre-check, you can breeze through security without having to remove your shoes, belts, or light jackets. Additionally, you can leave your laptop and liquids in your carry-on bag, saving you time and hassle.
 

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Unforeseen Connections: A Heartwarming Encounter on the Road

During a recent family trip to Texas, we made a stopover in Arkansas. One Wednesday night, we attended bible class at a local church. This night would leave us with a memory that would forever be etched in our hearts.

Back story: Our daughters were learning American Sign Language (ASL). As we were finding a place to sit, our youngest daughter, known for her natural warmth and boundless curiosity, gravitated towards another little person in the congregation.

 

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My Cruise to Cozumel

The Teen Lounge!
When I first went to the teen lounge, I saw a box of video games and table tennis with four paddles. Everyone was super friendly and incredibly fun. I met three new friends over time and had the best time ever in the lounge. When walking around the ship two teen girls ran into me and told me about the funny things that happened at the lounge.

 

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Preparing for Winter Travel

During this holiday season, many of us are planning trips to go see family or spend time with friends. The winter weather outlook predicts a wetter south and a warmer north, and there will be plenty of opportunities for severe weather. That’s why we encourage our travelers to plan extra time into your itinerary to accommodate canceled or delayed flights.
 

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Tips for the International Traveler

October 19, 2023

You are finally doing it! You saved your nickels and you’re ready to take that trip you have been planning and dreaming of congratulations! Before you fly or sail off into the wild blue yonder there are a few things you may want to consider whether you are a seasoned traveler or a novice. The seven tips below may save you some time or money, prevent travel frustrations, and allow your trip to be enjoyable and carefree. So, let’s jump right in!

 

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Internet Connectivity on Cruise Ships

September 28, 2023

A few years ago, internet while underway was pretty much non-existent. Today, with the advent of advanced and more affordable satellite technology (thanks to Elon Musk and StarLink), ships can offer sufficient internet service to allow for text and voice calls, social media updates, and other functions.

Additionally, many phone companies have more affordable roaming plans that allow you to remain in touch with loved ones while away. Of course, such a blessing can also be a curse as our main purpose for going on a cruise is to get away from work, relax and forget the stress of our daily lives.
If you need to stay connected while you cruise, consider a pre-pay option for internet.  Below are some examples of internet plans.

 

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Photo Packages

September 21, 2023

At Smith-Hairston Travel, we believe that travel has the power to broaden minds, foster cultural exchange, and create lifelong memories. And there’s no better way to capture such memories than to purchase a picture package from the cruise line.

Most cruise lines offer onboard photography and have trained and well-equipped photographers seemingly everywhere from the cruise terminal to ship events to disembarkation points at ports of call. In fact, opportunities exist until the last day of the cruise to get some stunning and memorable snapshots. So, when onboard photographers offer to take your picture, let them. It won’t cost you a thing unless you decide to buy the photo.

 

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Shore Excursions

September 13, 2023

We recently completed a three-day journey to Bimini, Bahamas, on the Carnival Liberty cruise ship. The trip was part of a reunion of 143d Expeditionary Sustainment Command members from various periods in the organization’s history. Although we didn’t plan this cruise, each outing is an opportunity to learn more that will benefit our clients — especially those who are interested in doing group cruises.

Each cruise for us is an opportunity to learn lessons and gather ideas that we think can help our cruise family. This post is the first of a series that will discuss the following topics:

•    Shore Excursions
•    Picture Packages
•    Internet and Phone Connectivity
•    Things to Bring
•    The Cruise App
•    Group Travel Tips

 

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Our Voyage to Cozumel

August 31, 2023

Our second cruise was a getaway for my husband and me. We sailed from the Port of Miami to Cozumel, Mexico by way of Key West, Fla.  This was by far the best cruise for me to date. We had a balcony to enjoy the views on this cruise. Although there were food choices that came with the price of the cruise, we chose to dine in one of the restaurants. Dining in the main dining room is very exciting and entertaining – a special experience. My husband was even able to take advantage of Karaoke, which he loves.

 

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