Recently I traveled from Arizona to Ohio for New Year’s Eve. My visit was peaceful and quiet and a bit blustery at times. Going through airport security at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix, Arizona was a breeze because I left early in the morning and the airport was empty. The TSA Agents seem to be alert and knew what they were doing. Unfortunately, my experience at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland, OH was a different story. It made me ask the question, “how qualified are TSA agents?”

My return flight to Phoenix, AZ was scheduled and on time. I arrived very early at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport because of the weather. I checked my bag and headed towards security. It was business as usual at the airport.

I presented my ticket and ID to the agents sitting behind the podium before I went through security. They wished me a good flight, and I proceeded towards a TSA line. A gentleman was in front of me, and I had to wait until his bins were on the conveyor belt and through the scanning process. I took off my jackets, shoes, and ring — loaded them into bins and pushed them onto the conveyor belt. Another traveler was behind me. I walked through the scanner and waited for my items to come down the conveyor belt. This is where it gets interesting.

The TSA Agent left her post! I couldn’t believe it; she shutdown the conveyor belt and left without any warning. My purse and jackets came through, but my shoes were stuck somewhere on the conveyor belt. I was standing, shivering in my socks in disbelief. The guy behind me was not a happy camper.

The TSA Agent came back and asked me what I was waiting for. I looked at her and was going to say, “…my shoes,” but the guy behind me beat me to it. She looked at the screen and restarted the conveyor belt. Lo and behold the bin with my Skechers came down the conveyor belt. How did this woman get a job with the airport? What kind of airport security is this? If this is airport security then it’s a joke.

Travelers and citizens of the U.S. have every right to know what qualifications are necessary for people to be hired as TSA agents. I’m not sure a high school or GED is enough. Perhaps some college courses are necessary, especially in travel and criminal justice. It’s unheard of that an agent would walk away and shut down the screening process, especially when there’s a line forming. Hopefully she had a good explanation. Maybe Mother Nature was calling and she didn’t want to or could not ignore her! If that’s the case, what’s the protocol for leaving a post? I’m sure there’s an interesting explanation.

The next time you travel, observe the TSA Agents. Do they seem to know what they’re doing? Be aware of what’s happening around you at all times. Make sure you know how many bins you have coming down the conveyor belt. You never know when a TSA agent will unexpectedly depart from her post!

Rebecca

What has been your experience with TSA Agents? Share your experience.

I recently took a road trip to the East Bay and South Bay of San Francisco. It took me 12 hours to drive from Phoenix, AZ to San Francisco. The reason for my trip was to check out a school that I’m interested in attending. Next time, I’ll fly.

Driving by yourself is no fun for two reason: 1) you do all of the driving and 2) it’s kind of boring because you have no one to converse with when you’re on the road.

While I was in the East Bay and South Bay areas of San Francisco, I wanted to see the ocean. I was at the South Bay campus of the university that I’m interested which is located in Campbell, CA. After speaking with one of the advisor’s, I found out that the ocean was only a 1-hour drive. I didn’t know I’d be headed to Santa Cruz.

I hopped on the 17-S and drove towards Santa Cruz. It was an easy drive from Campbell, CA. It was a bit winding and curvy. I was grateful that the police were on the highway as well because Californians are worse drivers than Arizonians.

Santa Cruz was a lot of fun. It was so cool to see the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Yes, the same boardwalk where the original Lost Boys movies was filmed! Here’s a tip: you may want to arrive very early in the morning. Parking was horrific. You may want to book a stay at hotel in the area so you can walk to the boardwalk.

After driving around and around, I decided to forgo the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and drove to the Santa Cruz Harbor. I found parking on the street and the restaurant The Crow’s Nest. When I parked my car, I had a “gut instinct” that said “maybe you can’t park here.” A sign was posted that read “No Parking — Mon. – Fri. 8 am – 5pm.” Unfortunately, I didn’t see the park about “No Parking without a Permit.” I parked my car and walked toward the ocean.

Walking on the beach was wonderful. As I walked towards the Pacific Ocean, I felt very grateful for having made to California from Arizona. I watched the waves were crash upon the beach and was awestruck. As I walked towards the ocean, the water came up and kissed my feet! I continued to walk and the water smacked against my legs. My pants legs were all wet and full of sand, but I didn’t mind.

I began to walk towards my car and noticed a woman by my car. I said, “…excuse me, may I help you.” She turned around and low and behold it was a cop. Nice. Apparently, my “gut instinct” was right. I couldn’t park on the street. She told me to take the ticket to this little trailer, and I did. There was nothing they could do. I was told I could pay the ticket online.

Yes, I paid $45 to see the Pacific Ocean and walk on the beach. Was it worth it? I believe it was because my creativity was reopened. I was feeling stuck with my writing and life. I loved walking on the beach and recommend it. So, you may want to book a trip to Northern California and visit Santa Cruz. Go on, the water’s fine!

Rebecca

Who else got a ticket while traveling?

Armenia is known as the motherland of viticulture. “Winemaking history can be traced back to biblical times when Noah established his first vineyard in the Ararat Valley after the flood (Proshyan Wine Factory).”

The Pomegranate wine from Armenian winemakers Proshyan is a blend of both tartness and fruitiness. If you enjoy a semi-sweet red wine, you’ve found the perfect wine to adorn your table. Pomegranate wine is great complement if you’re serving lamb.

When you pull the cork out of the bottle the rich aroma is unleashed. Pour yourself a glass and breath deep the dark flavors of this wine. Your first taste may leave your head spinning. The peppery tartness mixed with the fruitiness of the Pomegranate will leave your senses wanting more.

Wine Tips and Tricks

• Use a good corkscrew. When opening a bottle of wine, make sure you have a quality corkscrew opener. Otherwise, you’ll have difficulty trying to get the wine out;
• Purchase a wine stopper. These can be found at any store from Old World Market to Wal Mart. Purchase a cork stopper if you don’t want to replace the cork;
• You can never go wrong with wine etiquette. If you’re attending a party, bring a bottle of wine. Don’t bring a “chilled” bottle of wine because your host may have already picked a wine to go with dinner.

Pomegranate wine is both trendy and historic at the same time. It’s said that Pomegranate was used as aphrodisiacs in ancient times. It’s a sensual element that complements contemporary cuisine.

If you’re looking to spice things up in your life, purchase a bottle of Pomegranate wine. You can find this wine at Sprouts Farmers Market for $9.99. You’ll probably find it at Old World Market as well. Whether you’re having dinner for two or a dinner party, you’ll have a night that you won’t forget.

Bonus!

Red Wine Selections

• Serve a Cabernet Sauvignon for big, filling entrees like casseroles, red meats, beef, and lamb.
• Pair a Merlot with roast beef, barbeque chicken, tuna, or soups and stews. A fruitier taste will also go well with red meats.
• If you’re serving pasta, pour a glass of Pinot Noir. This is a light red wine — a versatile wine. You can also serve Pinot Noir with ham, turkey, fontina cheese, grilled vegetables, and salmon.
• To spice up your game meat or rack of lamb, serve Shiraz. This is a more peppery red wine. It’s lighter than a Cabernet but is strong enough to be paired with meat.

Rebecca

What are some of your favorite red wines?

Many people travel each year and go home for the holidays. If you have pets, you have a decision to make: do you put Fido or Felix in a kennel or find someone to watch him?

The alternative is to travel with your pets. This can be tricky because some pets travel better than others. But, it may be worth it if you do not have anyone to watch your pet. and avoid costly kennels.

Air Travel

If you plan to travel by air, take your pet to the veterinarian. Some airlines will ask to see a certificate that verifies your pet is healthy. The airline may ask for proof of rabies and distemper vaccinations.

You may want to ask your veterinarian if your pet needs tranquilizers. Some veterinarians will suggest giving your pet Benadryl or nothing at all. If you choose to give your pet a tranquilizer, give them one a few days before you leave. This way you will be able to see how your pet reacts to the medicine.

Make sure you have an airline regulated pet carrier. The size of the carrier will vary from airline to airline. Find a PetSmart Store near you and purchase a carrier that is acceptable by the airlines.

You may want to feed your pet an hour before your flight. Make sure your pet goes to the bathroom before you leave. You do not want any accidents while you’re in the air!

Consider bringing some food and or small animal water feeder with you. Your pet may or may not be hungry or thirsty on your flight, but it’s best to be prepared. Many pets are too nervous to eat or drink and most will sleep for the duration of the flight.

Car or RV Travel

For those who travel via a car or RV, make sure your pet is in it’s carrier and buckled in just like you! After all, you do not want your pet to be “rolling around” as you drive, especially on a winding road.

Every 90 minutes or so, stop at a rest stop to feed your pet. It’s good for you and your pet to stretch your legs and go to the bathroom. If you’re traveling with a cat, make sure you have enough litter for your trip. Carry bags with you so you can put the litter or “doggie doo” in it. Remember to clean up after your pet.

If you plan to stay at a hotel or hotel and resort, make sure they accepts pets! You do not want to show up at your hotel and find out that Fido is not welcomed. Before you book your hotel, ask if they accept pets.

If you must travel with a pet, make sure they will be comfortable. Of course, the best option is to leave them at home. If you cannot do this, take every precaution to ensure that both of you will have a smooth and seamless travel experience.

Traveling with pets does not have to be difficult. It’s kind of like traveling with kids! You still need to bring food, water, treats, and their favorite toys. Happy traveling to you and your pets!

Anyone who visits Phoenix, AZ will want to check out Old Town Scottsdale which is in, of course, Scottsdale, AZ. Old Town has many specialty shops, restaurants, museums, and art galleries. It has year round street festivals such as the annual Parada del Sol. Check out Old Town Scottsdale to what you can unearth on your next trip to Arizona.

A Night in Old Town

Saddle Ranch Chop House in Old Town Scottsdale opened in January 2008. They like to celebrate the holidays at Saddle Ranch. People are known to gather together for events such as Santarchy (not anti-Santa; just good fun). Everyone dresses in various Santa or holiday costumes (Harry Hanukkah) and make their way to Saddle Ranch, which is the first stop of the night. After they’ve finished at Saddle Ranch, it’s time to move onto the next bar/club.

Saddle Ranch is known for it’s infamous mechanical bull. It has been featured on shows such as Sex and the City, Desperate Housewives, American Idol, Six Feet Under, and many more. The first Saddle Ranch opened on the Sunset Strip and has become well known nationwide. You do not have to travel to L.A. to enjoy Saddle Ranch because there may be one opening near you!

Kyoto Japanese Restaurant is known for it’s Saki Bombers! The sushi is five star and the atmosphere is laid back. It’s best to make reservations on the weekends. Kyoto is great for young and old, families, singles, dates, and anyone who likes to have a great time without the pressure.

Giligan’s is a dive bar in Old Town. If you like trendy bars, you may want to forgo Giligan’s. However, if you like to have fun and want a unique bar experience, check out Giligan’s. The foods not bad either and it’s served late! The walls and ceilings are covered. Seriously, it looks like a couple of magazines, albums, and other stuff was blown up and landed on walls and ceilings! Again, this is not a typical trendy Scottsdale bar. This is the place where you go to have some real fun and let loose!

Martini Ranch is overrated. They claim to have “catapulted local acts into national names, from Coldplay to Avril Lavigne, Martini Ranch set the stage for local musicians to be discovered.” Really, Martini Ranch was responsible for the success Cold Play is experiencing. Talent and marketability had something to do with Cold Play’s success.

The staff at Martini Ranch is not the greatest. Trying to get into Martini Ranch is a big ordeal, even for a bunch of Santas. So much for the holiday spirit and spreading good cheer!

For a split second you may ask yourself “am I in Arizona or L.A., Manhattan, or London?” The guys at the door must think they are in L.A. They’ll take your id, check it for a few minutes, and then hold onto it for some reason. You get it back when they decide to let you into the bar. This is a great way to lose business. Then again perhaps the Martini Ranch has not been effected by the economic situation of the United States of America. Good for them, business is booming and no one is losing their job.

By the way, the bartenders are rude and will not serve water to those who ask for it. People are overcharged for “foo-foo” drinks and then cannot get a simple glass of water. This is ironic since the state of Arizona is hard core when it comes to DUIs and drunk driving in general.

If you still would like to check out Martini Ranch, visit their website and then decide it you will check it out.

These are just some of the establishments you will find in Old Town Scottsdale. During the day, enjoy the galleries and shop until you drop. When night falls, head out into town and discover what Old Town Scottsdale has to offer you.

Do you have a favorite travel destination? When August, the “hottest” month appears, are you ready to book a flight to Edinburgh, Scotland for the International Fringe Festival? Whether you are a new or experienced traveler, here are some tips for you. Don’t leave home without them!

Travel Tips

1. Do not be a tourist!
2. Consider booking your flight online.
3. Read hotel reviews!
4. Stay at a bed and breakfast or hostel. Read reviews!
5. Pack what you need not your entire closet!
6. Bring a good pair of walking shoes.
7. Make copies of your credit card, passport, and drivers license and carry them in a separate place. Leave a copy with someone back home.
8. Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home.
9. Travel during off-peak seasons.
10. Check in early at the airport.
11. When traveling to a foreign country bring some local currency with you.
12. Bring a phone card in case of emergency. If you have a cell or mobile phone with international coverage that’s even better!
13. Bring a voltage adapter when traveling to a foreign country.
14. Travel with an open mind.
15. Bring a guidebook, language translator, or foreign language book.
16. Smile! Bonus!

Links to your next adventure

1. Baja Fun. A great resource for Baja California Sur. Fun in the sun!
2. Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This international festival is truly one of a kind! The popular Military Tattoo Festival usually sells out within the year. Get your tickets now!
3. Budget Backpackers. More than just a youth hostel. You will find people of all ages from across the world at this hostel!
4. Sunset Travel. Online travel agency that specializes in the “all-inclusive” vacation.
5. Hostel World. Proud sponsors of UNICEF! Hostel World’s experienced staff is from all over the world. Book your hostel, budget accommodation center, or package tour today!
6. Priceline.com – no one deals like we do!. Option #1 for booking your vacation!

Travelocity, option #2. Top 10 Vacation Destinations! Go ahead and “Rome” with the Gnome!


Top Travel Deals at Expedia.com. Option #3 for booking your vacation.


7. Barnes and Noble. Find Lonely Planet guidebooks and much more!
8. Buy.com. The place to purchase electronics such as a pocket translator, IPod, MP3, digital camera, or whatever “electronic gadget” for your next vacation.
   

Pack It!: Luggage at eBags.com in case you need a new set.

Jet settin’,
~ Rebecca

It is my third time to The United Kingdom of Great Britain; specifically Edinburgh, Scotland. When August, the “hottest” month appears, it signals the beginning of the brilliant festivals that take place in Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. Choose from the Art Festival, Festival of Spirituality and Peace, International Film Festival, Military Tattoo Festival, International Fringe Festival, International Festival, International Book Festival, and many more. If you enjoy art, meeting people, culture, craziness, and an overload of your senses, then Edinburgh is the place to be in August! more…