Steamboating is Back. And It's Here to Stay

In April of 2012, the grand American Queen will resume her proud role of taking guests on Steamboating adventures through the heartland of America.

Steamboating is a cherished American tradition—the history and heritage, the warm ambiance of a floating antebellum mansion, the thrill of exploring Mark Twain’s America, the succulent dining, the showboat-style entertainment, and dancing the night away to the sounds of swing and big band music. Combine this with gracious service from an all-American staff, and you have an experience that can only be found aboard the American Queen.

This is a unique way to experience the history, heritage and culture of America's heartland aboard a geniune steamboat. You will be able to stroll through charming towns and vibrant river cities. Explore historic ports of call like New Orleans, Natchez, Mark Tains's Hannibal, Chattanooga and Pittsburgh, just to name a few. Along the way learn about the great events and people that have contributed to America's history and culture from the decks of the grand, elegant American Queen.

Shore excursions are included in the price of your voyage if you make reservations by December 31, 2011. They are also offering complimentary soft drinks and bottled water, as well as complimentary wines and beers at dinner. And the American Queen will be serving the acclaimed cuisine of famed American chef, Regina Charboneau.

To find out more about the American Queen, vacation packages from 5 nights to 11 nights and all-new shore adventures, contact me for more information at fred@yyztravel.com or by phone at my home office 519-471-9464.

Air Canada joining U.S. Airlines in charging for checked in luggage

Travelling to the U.S. with Air Canada?  No more free checked in luggage.   Air Canada is introducing new rules around checked baggage on flights between Canada and the United States, charging $25 for the first bag beginning in October.


In an announcement on its website Thursday, the airline said the policy change, which applies to economy tickets issued on or after Sept. 7, for travel on or after Oct. 11, is “consistent with the baggage policies of other major carriers.”   Checking a second bag on those flights will cost $35.

“It’s the reality of trying to keep our airline on a sustainable economic footing,” said Air Canada spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick in an interview. “If you look around the world, it’s the way carriers are going and dealing with various cost issues.”

For passengers travelling within Canada, the first bag will be free, but a second checked bag will cost $20. On international routes, the first bag is also free, but depending on destination, the second bag can range from $50 to $70.  

Executive class passengers and certain frequent flyers listed in particular categories are given various exemptions on baggage fees.

Both WestJet Airlines and Porter Airlines, which also fly to cities in the U.S., said the first checked bag is free on their flights, and they don’t have any plans to change their policies.

Most U.S. carriers including United, Delta and American charge $25 for the first bag and $35 for the second bag on flights to Canada.

Source:  The Star

How long before Air Canada also charges for the 1st bag checked in for domestic & international flights?