Ever get confused about tipping when you're some place unfamiliar or even when you're in a familiar place?  Did you know that tipping can be insulting in Japan? Were you aware that many European hotels and restaurants add the tip to your bill?
Tipping can be a puzzling experience for overseas travelers. It's commonplace in some countries, in others it's expected only in major cities, and in some it simply isn't done. The rules are also in a constant state of change, so what was appropriate the last time you visited your favorite foreign destination may be completely inappropriate the next time you go.
Magellan's is one of our favorite suppliers of travel gear and travel information.  Magellan's Worldwide Tipping Guide is designed to advise travelers of common tipping practices in over 70 countries. Click the link:  Magellan's Worldwide Tipping Guide.

TRAVEL TIP:  AIRLINE BAGGAGE CHARGES

When shopping for airline ticket prices, be sure to take into account what you're going to have to pay the airline to have your bags travel with you. The current spate of additional baggage charges can add as much as $100 to the cost of your round trip. Click Airline Baggage Policies for current information on all major U.S. airlines baggage policies and charges. Note that as of today, Southwest is the only major U.S. airline with no charges for checked bags.

Before You Go:

1. Allow plenty of time at the airport. Bags checked right before departure time may travel on a later flight.
2. Find the destination airport code on your ticket or itinerary, and make sure that the routing tag placed on your luggage at check-in shows the correct code.
3. Make a list of your itinerary, including hotel names, addresses and phone numbers, and the dates of your stay so that delayed luggage can be delivered to you. Keep a copy with you, and place a copy inside each checked bag.
4. Personalize each checked bag with a colorful luggage tag or strap, and take a quick photo with your cell phone or digital camera. Should your bag be lost or delayed, it will be easily described and identified.
5. Do not check valuables - carry them on board.
6. Place a change of clothing in your carry-on bag. You'll have an outfit to wear and an outfit to wash should your luggage be delayed or lost.
7. Report any loss or damage before you leave the airport.

HOLIDAY CRUISE

Top 10 Reasons to Take a Holiday Cruise

1. Our cruise lines offer holiday cruises of all lengths on all types of ships in all parts of the world.

2. When quality family time counts the most, a holiday cruise offers flexibility and choice in recreational activites, entertainment, relaxed dining and fun for travelers of all ages.

3. With special pricing, an adbundance of diverse activites and plenty of entertainment, cruising for the holidays is the ideal choice for multigenerational groups or groups of families and friends.

4. Holiday cruisers do not need to worry about planning and preparing menus, doing the dishes or cleaning the house. On a cruise, you can leave holiday chores behind and concentrate on enjoying time spent with loved ones.

5. In times of stress, the chance to totally escape is just what the doctor ordered. Vacationing has been proven to be healthy and good for one's well-being.

6. With a caring ship's staff doing all the work, including the entertaining, a holiday cruise means more time to celebrate and enjoy the festivities.

7. With so many different cruises and cruise ships to choose from, there is a holiday cruise for every budget.

8. Featuring inclusive pricing, incomparable comfort and convenience, and travel to some of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, no holiday celebration offers more value for money spent than a cruise.

9. What better or more-appreciated gift could there be than the lifetime memories of a holiday cruise with family or friends? Admit it, we all have too much "stuff" as it is.

10. It's not too late. Last minute cruise shoppers are welcome!