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September 2001
What! It's not time to go you say? Perhaps November is still some time away, but I have my ticket for Nov. 1st. purchased already. I have some prices and tips for you to help you find an economical ticket at the time you want to leave. Don't forget, ticket rates don't mean much if the flight on the day you want to leave is full.
The monsoons will soon end and the time will arrive when you may want to see the Kingdom when
the fauna and jungle is still very green. The jungle will remain green for some time, but it will slowly dry out after months of no rain when it turns to shades of brown and gold until the monsoons return in April.
Thai Air is generally fully booked far in advance, unless you know an agent has access to block brokers. Be prepared to pay a premium price, but worth it if you appreciate good service rather than taking a cheaper flight.
Singapore Air has billboards up in the Chicago area advertising direct flights to Southeast Asia but don't be fooled, they stop somewhere before you arrive and a ticket is not cheap.
Korea air has departures three times a week at a great price of $699. before departure taxes, but it may be difficult to find a seat due to demand.
Northwest Orient has daily flights stopping over in Minneapolis and Tokyo for $769.
I purchased my ticket seven weeks in advance and didn't get the seat on Korea Airlines that I wanted for $699. They have only 3 flights a week and were booked up on the days I wanted. I reverted to the old standby Northwest at $769. where I had air miles in my account. The lesson is: book at least two months before your departure date to get a good price.
Additionally, remember that with some airlines, weekend rates are higher and substantial fines are levied if departure or return dates are changed or if the ticket is canceled. Who in their right mind would cancel a ticket to Thailand I wonder? On the other hand, almost everyone wants to change the return flight to extend their vacation. To save booking headaches just pick a return date that is the maximum amount of time you can get away for and save about a hundred dollars.
To find a ticket agent in Chicago, go to our web site and contact me by email. Check out the expedition dates page and follow the procedures to apply to join our expeditions that are now forming.
Lastly, due to the N.Y. terrorist acts a receipt from your travel agent will be necessary if using a E ticket. Contact your agent to be sure you have no problems and be sure to leave early for the airport to allow for long check in and security procedures.
The difference between adversity and adventure is attitude.
NMC, SW.
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