Photo courtesy of blog.dogvacay.com

Got any plans for Memorial Day Weekend? Memorial Day commemorates all men and women who have died in military service for the United States. Celebrated with parades and remembrance, flags will fly at half mast and cover cemeteries across the country.

The Memorial Day Weekend holiday also marks the unofficial start of the summer season and more Americans will opt to hit the road than fly the sky. According to AAA, more than 30 million people will travel by car, while only 2.5 million will travel by air. Many people see Memorial Day weekend as an opportunity to go on a short vacation or visit family or friends, which can cause some congestion on highways and at airports. So, where’s everyone headed?

While many destinations will offer everything from parades to pool parties and more, travelers are looking to keep the costs down while still leaving town. Popular destinations for the holiday weekend are Las Vegas, San Francisco, New York City, Chicago and San Diego. Other popular spots for the extended weekend are pools, parks, campgrounds, beaches and simply backyards.

Memorial Weekend starts Thursday, May 24 and ends Monday, May 28. Where are you heading for the holiday? Tell us in the comments below, or share your story at Stories@CheapAir.com!

By Jeremy Bryant

Just about every airport is an architectural wonder in its own right. Airports cater to literally billions of travelers—and it’s quite impressive to think about everything that comprises an airport in order to serve this number of people. From runways and terminals to baggage claims, lounges, food courts and more, a lot happens behind the scenes to build an airport. Here’s my hand-selected list of amazing architectural airports that I’m in awe over.

Photo courtesy of: http://www.bestnweb.com

Kansai International Airport (KIX) – Osaka, Japan

What’s amazing about the Kansai International Airport is that it’s built on a man-made island in the middle of Osaka Bay. The Kansai International Airport in Japan began construction in 1987 and eventually opened in 1994. Serving more than 14 million travelers a year, KIX was one of ten structures given the “Civil Engineering Monument of the Millennium” award in 2001 by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Photo courtesy of: http://velrats.blogspot.com

Madeira International Airport (FNC) – Santa Catarina, Santa Cruz, Portugal

Formerly known as Funchal Airport in Santa Catarina, the Madeira International Airport stands out due to its unique runway built using a series of 180 columns. Extended over the years to accommodate larger aircrafts, the Madeira International Airport won the prestigious 2004 Outstanding Structure Award given by the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering.

Photo courtesy of: www.sharegoodstuffs.com

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) – Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong

The Hong Kong International Airport operates one of the world’s largest passenger terminal buildings. Serving 90 airlines operating flights to over 150 cities across the world, the Hong Kong International Airport is a like a well oiled machine having earned eight Skytracx World Airport Awards for customer satisfaction. Built on the island of Chek Lap Kokby land reclamation, Hong Kong International Airport was voted as one of the Top 10 Construction Achievements of the 20th Century at the Con Expo conference in 1999.

Photo courtesy of: http://www.china.org.cn

Dammam King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam, Saudi Arabia

Located 12 miles northwest of Dammam, Saudi Arabia sits the behemoth King Fahd International Airport. Designed in 1976, construction didn’t begin till 1983 and finally opened for commercial use in 1999. Comprised of a six story terminal, a mosque, a separate area for shopping, and a royal terminal, the King Fahd International Airport is the largest airport in the world by land size.

Photo courtesy of: www.denverairporttransportation.com

Denver International Airport (DEN) –Denver, Colorado

The Denver International Airport is the largest U.S. airport, by land size, and serves over 52 million passengers worldwide. The city of Denver’s geographical location makes this airport a hot hub for most carriers. The airport’s distinctive white “tent like” roof was designed to remind passengers of the snow capped Rocky Mountains. The airport was designed for expansion in mind and achieves it using an expandable midfield terminal and concourses.

Photo courtesy of: www.friedmanarchives.com

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) –Los Angeles,California

LAX, as it’s famously known, is the main international airport serving the greater Los Angeles area. With more than 62 million travelers passing through in 2011, LAX hosts 9 terminals in a “U” shape. However, it’s “U” shape is not the reason it made the list. While not actually a part of the airport, the “Theme Building” was added in 1961 to represent the original building plans which called for a dome connecting the terminals. Resembling a flying saucer standing on four legs, the Theme Building is a historical monument which houses a restaurant that once rotated providing 360 degree views.

Photo courtesy of: http://www.bluffton.edu

Sondica Airport (BIO) –Bilbao, Spain

With its sleek winged design, the Sondica Airport in Bilbao, Spain lands on our list. Both hailed for its design and criticized for its practicality, the Sondica Airport “dove” like building definitely sticks out as an airport with attraction. People waiting to welcome passengers can do so from the dramatic viewing gallery above the baggage claim.

http://www.dubaiairport.com

Dubai International Airport (DXB) –Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Dubai International Airport was conceptualized to serve as the main airport for Dubai and the region that is known as the United Arab Emirates. The airport is comprised of 3 terminals and houses tons of duty free shopping. Currently ranked as the 12^th busiest airport in the world, the Dubai International Airport has the world’s largest airport terminal. The Dubai International Airport is very modern and luxurious echoing the city of Dubai’s rise as a luxury destination.

Photo courtesy of: www.buildbyman.blogspot.com

Beijing International Airport(PEK) –Beijing, China

Rising as one of the world’s busiest airports, the Beijing International Airport in China was opened in 1958. In 2008, before the Summer Olympics, Terminal 3 opened making it the second largest airport terminal in the world behind Dubai International Airport. Housing an indoor garden, duty free shopping, restaurants, and convenience stores, Beijing International Airport is decorated with traditional Chinese influence.

Photo courtesy of glamquo.com

Incheon International Airport (ICN) –Seoul, South Korea

The Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea has consistently ranked since 2005 as the best airport worldwide by Airports Council International. It also received the full 5-star ranking by Skytrax. The airport boasts a golf course, spa, private rooms for sleeping, ice skating, a casino, indoor gardens and a museum. Opened in 2001, Incheon International Airport is built on two islands that were originally separated by the sea. Reclaimed for the construction project, the islands were connected to create the airport. The airport was awarded the Best in Service Award in Class at the 1st International Conference on Airport Quality and Service by the IATA and the Airports Council International, and ranked second in Best Airport Worldwide, behind Hong Kong International Airport.

CheapAir Travelers, what airports are you in awe over? Tell us in the comments.

embracescotland.co.uk

By Emma Ross

Scotland’s largest city oozes art and culture.  With many museums and art galleries, and home to the Scottish Opera and Ballet, cosmopolitan Glasgow is known as the European City of Culture. The city is also rich in interesting architecture, and was chosen in 1999 as UK City of Architecture and Design.  Yet discovering the art and architecture on offer doesn’t have to cost the earth – here are some ideas of how to enjoy Glasgow on a budget.

Visitor Attractions with Free Admission

• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

This is one of Scotland’s most popular free attractions, with twenty-two themed art galleries, displaying 8,000 objects.

• The Burrell Collection

Set in the Pollok Country Park, The Burrell Collection is named after Sir William Burrell, who donated his collection of over 9,000 works of art to the city.

• Riverside Museum

Glasgow’s Museum of Travel and Transport is now housed in theRiversideMuseumon the River Clyde. The museum has over 3,000 objects on display and you can even climb aboard some of the exhibits.

• The University of Glasgow

Take a walk around the grounds of the UK’s oldest universities and admire the beautiful architecture.

• Glasgow Cathedral

The spectacular Glasgow Cathedral was built between the 13^th and 15^th centuries, and is the only medieval cathedral inScotland to have survived the Reformation of 1560.

• Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)

The Gallery of Modern Art, housed in a neo-classical building in Glasgow’s city centre, is one of Glasgow’s top attractions, with a fantastic display of art by local and international artists.

Eating

There are many cheap eats in Glasgow offering good food at great prices. Glasgow has a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes – you’ll find many budget-friendly options on Byres Road in Glasgow’s West End. Or take a look at the Scottish website 5pm.co.uk for some great value dining offers available every day of the week.  

Accommodation

A local holiday apartment is ideal for the budget-conscious visitor.  Self-catering offers you fantastic value for money, an authentic experience of city life, and the freedom to really make the most of your holiday.   You can also enjoy meals at home, without worrying about the cost of eating out every day.  A holiday apartment in Glasgow’s city centre would make the perfect – wallet-friendly –base to explore this vibrant and stylish city.

Emma Ross writes for EmbraceScotland, a leading provider of self catering cottages in Scotland. 

Photo courtesy of uniquethots.blogspot.com

Approval has been granted for a new liquor store at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.

A lingering shadow of doubt was lifted in February, when the Clark County Commission voted in favor of the new venture, to be named the Liquor Library.

The store will occupy 1,350 square-feet in the baggage claim area of Terminal 1. The choice of location is presumably intended to target thirsty passengers coming off a long-haul flight. It’s estimated that the new enterprise will earn the airport between $300,000 and $400,000 per year.

Cheap duty-free booze has been a staple of international travel for decades. But if the McCarran plan goes ahead, this will be the first time that a liquor store has operated in an American airport without duty-free restrictions.

Approval for the project was originally granted to another retailer, Lee’s Runway Liquor, in 2010. But the owners defaulted on their agreement when they failed to begin construction at the end of the year, and the contract was cancelled.

The Liquor Library was then given the go-ahead. If all goes to plan, the store should be open for business by fall this year.

Photo courtesy of abcnews.go.com

A new app for filing complaints against the Transport Security Administration was released this week.

FlyRights allows travelers to submit an official complaint to the TSA, directly from their tablet or smartphone, if they feel they have been discriminated against by airport security officers.

FlyRights was created by a group called the Sikh Coalition, in response to alleged racial profiling of Sikh travelers in airports across the country. A number of civil rights groups contributed to the development of the app, and the Department of Homeland Security was also consulted.

Filing a traditional complaint with the TSA requires filling out an online form and emailing it to the agency. The creators of FlyRights are promoting their app as a “real-time” solution, allowing travelers to submit their complaint immediately after the incident occurs. The app has been designed for speed and simplicity, and the whole process takes only a few minutes. You have the option of submitting your complaint to the TSA, the DHS, or both.

Despite the TSA’s official stance that it does not engage in racial profiling, there are numerous reports each year of travelers being selected for additional security screening, based on their race or ethnicity. If you’re concerned about TSA discrimination, this new app could be worth trying out.

FlyRights is available free of charge for Apple and Android devices.

Photo courtesy of travel.usatoday.com

After an eight-year hiatus, Spirit Airlines has resumed flights to Denver this week. The budget carrier is launching four nonstop services, which commenced on May 3:

Denver (DEN) – Chicago O’Hare (ORD)

Denver (DEN) – Dallas/Ft Worth (DFW)

Denver (DEN) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

Denver (DEN) – Las Vegas (LAS)

These new routes mark the first time Spirit has flown to Denver since 2004. Much about the airline has changed since then, and Colorado residents probably won’t recognize the Spirit they once knew. In 2007, Spirit reinvented itself as “America’s first ultra-low-cost carrier”, and has since become famous for its low fares, add-on fees, and slightly outrageous marketing campaigns.

This latest move ups the competition with rival carrier Frontier Airlines, which is based in Colorado and flies many of the same routes, including the four that Spirit is introducing this week. We can expect some aggressive sales tactics from both sides in the months ahead.

The new Denver services are part of a wider expansion of Spirit’s network. According to the airline’s website, the following routes are scheduled to commence throughout May and June:

May 17

Latrobe/Pittsburgh (LBE) – Orlando (MCO)

May 31

Minneapolis/St.Paul (MSP) – Chicago (ORD)

Minneapolis/St.Paul (MSP) – Las Vegas (LAS)

June 21

Dallas/Ft Worth (DFW) – Detroit (DTW)

Dallas/Ft Worth (DFW) – San Diego (SAN)

Dallas/Ft Worth (DFW) – Toluca/Mexico City (TLC)

Dallas/Ft Worth (DFW) – Portland, Oregon (PDX)

Spirit’s expansion is generally a good thing for travelers because they very often have lower fares than other airlines who fly the same routes.  But when booking Spirit, it’s important to consider that they charge extra for certain things that other airlines don’t, the most significant being carry on bags which don’t fit under your seat — they charge $30 each way for those, and even more if you don’t pay in advance on Spirit.com.  On the other hand, if you plan to check your bags, their fees (which start at $28) are pretty comparable to most other airlines.

Photo courtsey of seaofghosts.com

By Joanna Brinjak

There are a few things you can do to make jet-setting as comfortable as possible. I’ve found that whether  the flight is one hour or 13—and no matter what airline I’m flying or where my seat is located, there are certain items I rely on to maintain my sanity while 30,000 feet in the air. Following is my list of “Comfort Must-Haves.”

1. Water. No need to wait for the stroll of the drink cart to quench your thirst! Make sure you grab a bottle of water before you board. Staying hydrated aids you in so many ways: you’ll feel more refreshed, fight jet lag faster….oh, and you won’t be flying with a cotton mouth.

2. Sweater or small blanket. I’ve never been one to want to snuggle with that generic blanket handed out on airplanes (plus, I’ll admit, I can be a bit of a germaphobe) so I  always pack a sweater for the flight, even if I’m flying to the tropics. A sweater is also a great sub for a pillow.

3. Socks. I often travel in flip flops so I can zoom through security, but then I’m left with cold feet on the plane! It’s a good idea to pack a pair if you know your feet will be exposed.

4. Tissues. Regardless of whether you have the sniffles, bring them just because. They always come in handy.

5. Reading material. Kindle, old school paperback, iPad—whatever—bring some reading material to help pass the time, especially if you are flying for more than an hour or two. There have been plenty of times where I think I will sleep the whole flight, only to find myself wide awake and wishing I had packed a book or magazine.

6. Neck pillow. I used to think these were pretty nerdy—but after flying to Costa Rica with one, I’m a fan. There are several types and brands sold in travel stores, but I’ve found the ones you inflate yourself are the best. You can make them as full as you want, and when you’re finished they roll up to fit in almost any space.

7. Hand sanitizer. Not just a plane must have, but a travel essential! Pack some for the times when you are having a snack or around someone who is sick and you can’t wash your hands soon enough.

CheapAir Travelers, what are your travel must-haves? What items can you not live without when traveling?

Photo courtesy of photo-dictionary.com

By Sharon Hurley Hall

Fact – one of the biggest costs of any journey can be the airport parking. A recent report by the UK’s Which? Travel found that many travelers turn up at the airport, only to have to pay high fees. But airport parking doesn’t have to be that huge a cost. There are things you can do to keep it affordable. Here are some tips.

Don’t Just Turn Up

Driving to the airport in search of a parking space is practically asking to get shafted. If you are planning to park at the airport, then booking in advance is the best way to cut your costs. Like airline tickets, you may be able to make big savings.

Comparison Shop

In most cases, your best bet for finding a decent rate for airport parking is to go off-airport, but don’t just take any old parking lot. A quick search will show you which off airport parking lot has the best rates and since you’re looking to save money, that’s a major consideration.

Of course, it’s not the only consideration, as you will want to compare the amenities on offer by the airport parking provider. Some may offer winter warm ups and summer cool downs – to turn on your heating or air conditioning (depending on the season) before you pick up your car on your return. Some may offer valet service while you’re away. Almost all will offer a free shuttle to and from the airport and help with your cases. Those are the things that can separate the great airport parking providers from those that are merely good.

Coupons and Rewards

Like many other services, you can save on airport parking by booking online – and it’s also worth looking out for any coupons available. These may be visible on site or you may have to look for deals sites, but with 10-15% savings available from some providers, it’s definitely worth the time you spend searching.

Some airport parking providers also offer loyalty schemes for regular users – and if you are a frequent flier from the same airport this could be worth it. These commonly offer additional discounts or free parking days – and who doesn’t like getting something for free?

Finally, look out for opportunities to double dip. Some airport parking providers have tie-ups with other organizations (like the AARP, for example) and businesses (such as local supermarkets and gas stations) and travel professionals so you can earn additional reward points or discounts for doing something you would be doing anyway.

Put these all together and you have the perfect recipe for a better trip with affordable airport parking.

Sharon Hurley Hall runs the Taking Off Travel Blog for off airport parking provider Park Ride Fly USA. See their site for the latest discount airport parking coupon.

By Jeremy Bryant

Can you feel the heat? That’s summer approaching and what better way to cool off than at the beach. Like a lot of people, I love the beach. The sand in my toes, the waves crashing up against the shore and coolers packed with drinks. It all brings me back to summer time as a kid. So many travelers will head for the beaches for summer vacations, but where to? To help you get your tan on, we’ve rounded up the best U.S. beaches to travel to this summer. So slap on some sunscreen because summer is coming.

Photo courtesty of 3scape.com

Zuma Beach, Malibu – One of the largest and most popular beaches in the Los Angeles, Zuma is known for its long, wide sands and excellent surf. Zuma plays host to several premier surfing events each year. Zuma offers swimming with lifeguards on duty, kite boarding, windsurfing, body boarding, volleyball and plenty of parking.

Photo courtesy of Hawaiiw.net

Punaluu Beach - Black Sand Beach, Hawaii – It’s not the only black sand beach, but certainly the most accessible and famous. The Punaluu Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii has been attracting vacationers for years. The beach is the perfect backdrop to take pictures and enjoy the scenery with a picnic lunch. Located off Highway 11 just south of Hilo, the quiet beach and soft sand relax the minds of many travelers. You can also spot sea turtles which frequent the beach to sunbathe.

Photo courtesy of flickriver.com

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park & Beach, Key West – Florida’s southernmost state park and beach, Fort Zachary Taylor State park and beach is a national historic landmark having played significant roles in the Civil War and the Spanish American War. The beach is popular for tours, picnicking, fishing, swimming and snorkeling. Live corals and numerous tropical fish, can be seen within the swimming area. With so many activities and history to enjoy, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach is the perfect summer getaway.

Photo courtesy of bcre.com

La Jolla Shores Beach, San Diego – The coastline varies dramatically in La Jolla. The Shores is a mile-long crescent of prime sand beach favored by active beachgoers of all interests. In summer, the waves at this beach are usually the most gentle of all San Diego beaches. The San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve is located next to the beach making fishing and removal of objects from this area prohibited unlawful. The activities are endless as the beach offers the only boat dock in the city limits. Beach goers can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, scuba and fire pits with picnic tables.

Photo courtesy of travelenvogue.com

Magens Bay Beach – St. Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands – From the turquoise waters and beautiful white sand, this half-mile loop of beach boasts the calmest waters in the Caribbean. Two peninsulas protect the shore from strong waves, making Magens an ideal spot for swimming. Expect crowds as this beach is popular. Offering all the conveniences of parking, lifeguards, equipment rental, freshwater showers, restaurants and bars, it’s no wonder Magens Bay Beach is a vacationer’s dream.

Photo courtesy of traveltips.usatoday.com

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Myrtle Beach has dazzled East Coast beachgoers for decades, and it remains a popular destination for families and beach enthusiasts seeking large beach resorts and excellent access to boating and water sports. From oceanfront resorts along the entire Grand Strand, to cozy beach homes and vacation rentals in north and south Myrtle Beach, there’s something for everyone. Myrtle Beach is a major tourist destination attracting millions over the summer.

Photo courtesy of humanandnatural.com

Craigville Beach, Massachusetts – Craigville Beach is a very popular tourist hot spot on Cape Cod. Unlike many private Cape beaches which offer parking to residents only, Craigville is a public beach available to non-residents for a parking fee. Craigville beach consists of two separate beaches, the public beach, Craigville Beach and the private beach, Covell’s Beach. Warm waters in the summer time make this beach a great destination to swim and relax with some friends and family.

Photo courtesy of bnqt.com

Ocean City, Maryland –From a classic family vacation to a weekend getaway, Ocean City offers beach goers everything. The board walk, golfing, and fishing are popular among travelers. Including shopping outlets along with restaurants famous for seafood, Ocean City attracts thousands of travelers from neighboring metropolises like Philadelphia and Baltimore. Offering free events stretching from Spring to Fall, Ocean City makes for a great summer beach trip on a budget.

Photo courtesy of bluelivingideas.com

South Beach, Miami – South Beach is a major entertainment destination with hundreds of nightclubs, restaurants, boutiques and hotels. South Beach is synonymous with partying and beaches. Perhaps it’s the sun, the weather, the beach, the Latin influence, or the laid back lifestyle that releases an electric energy into the club scene at night. Whatever it is, South Beach continues to draw in crowds from all across the world.

Photo courtesy of hawaii-picture.com

Hanalei Bay, Kauai – Hanalei Bay is the largest bay on the north shore of Kauai. With over two miles of beach surrounded by mountains, Hanalei Bay is a popular spot for surfers, body boarders and stand up paddle boarders. Hanalei Bay boasts a pier for fishing and coral reefs on both the left and right of the bay. Hanalei Bay Beach is well-known for its beauty, yet it never gets too crowded.

What are some of your favorite beaches? Tell us in the comments here, or email us a beach story at Stories@CheapAir.com!

Jeremy has been with CheapAir.com for nearly 12 years. He is our all-around travel expert and customer service advocate. His next destination is Napa Valley.

Photo courtesy of syracuse.com

It’s becoming more and more obvious: US Airways really wants to buy American Airlines.  In statements to the press and letters to employees, they are making a case that a combination of the two airlines is the best way to insure that each can survive and be successful.  They’ve supposedly even agreed to terms with American’s largest employee unions on compensation, benefits and work rules if the proposed merger were to materialize.

But is American even interested?

For now, they say no – at least publicly.  American is in the process of reorganizing itself through bankruptcy proceedings and they say their focus is 100 percent on exiting bankruptcy as a stronger, better, more financially competitive airline.

Still, some experts say that without a merger it will be really tough for both American and US Airways to compete with the likes of Delta and United, both of whom have bulked up through mergers of their own (with Northwest and Continental, respectively).  A combined American-US Airways would leapfrog those two to become the world’s largest airline.  (Right now, American is the fourth largest U.S. airline; US Airways is the fifth.)

If a merger were to occur, it is likely that the new airline would keep the American name.

So what would all this mean for travelers?  Probably nothing good.  We’ve already lost four of the eight large network carriers that existed in 2000 (TWA, America West, Northwest, Continental.)  As competition decreases, prices generally go up and flight choices generally go down.  I don’t think there is any question that an American-US Airways merger would accelerate that trend. So we’re rooting for American, who has a long and proud history, to stay independent and say “Thanks, but no Thanks” to US Airways.