Traveling is a lot of fun, but don't let your vacation fall victim to scams, world events or changing regulations. By staying informed and being a careful consumer, your dream vacation can be everything you want it to be.

FEATURE: Tips in the Wake of Recent Airline Bankruptcies

Following recent announcement by Aloha Airlines and ATA Airlines that they have suspended flight operations and declared bankruptcy, ASTA recommends consumers check with their travel agent to examine their travel options.

"Travelers who use the services of a travel professional have the added security of having a professional help them sort through the many alternatives from identifying schedules on alternate airlines to determining confirmed space and standby options. We are there for clients, before during and after a trip" said Cheryl Hudak, CTC, ASTA president and CEO.

Together with their travel agent, ticket holders should consider the following options: determine your best options on other carriers, deny the credit card charge, file a claim.  Read full article

Consumer Travel Alerts

Determine What Travel Documents You Need
As the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative program moves into its final year of implementation, the Department of Homeland Security has developed this easy-to-read "At a Glance" chart, explaining the new and existing RFID-enabled documents available to travelers for land and sea travel.

Traveling with Electronic Devices and Batteries
The DOT has issued a quick pocket-guide providing tips travelers can take to make their trips safer when traveling with electronic devices and batteries. For example, the guide recommends passengers keep spare batteries in their original retail packaging; keep loose batteries covered with insulating tape to protect them from contact with metal objects; place each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package; and pack spare batteries in carry-on baggage, rather than checked baggage. To learn more or download the guide, click here.

New Travel Document Requirements for Re-Entering the U.S. Become Effective on January 31, 2008 - Beginning January 31, 2008, all United States and Canadian citizens 19 years and older will be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth or naturalization certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver's license, when entering the U.S. through land and sea ports. More details...

Reminder: U.S. / Canada land and sea entry requirements to change on January 31. More details...

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