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Travel Questions Answered – Hotel, Attractions, and Flights Inquiries Explained

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Often, I take my experiences roaming around the world for granted. Sometimes, first-time travelers are embarrassed to ask about confusing aspects of taking a vacation. Luckily, Tourist Meets Traveler will always be able to answer those common travel questions and explain those hotel, attractions, and flights inquiries.

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Hotels

Travel Question – What is a “boutique” hotel and how is it different from a “branded” hotel? Is one better than the other?

Answer – The term is debatable, but generally refers to smaller hotel – 150 rooms or less – that is embraces upscale service and style. The decor is typically modern with a strong sense of distinction. A branded hotel is, essentially, a hotel in a chain of hotel brands. For example, the Hilton hotels are branded hotels.

As for one being “better” than the other, some say that with a smaller hotel you’ll enjoy a higher level of service as few guests mean more time for personal attention. That claim is arguable, but boutiques are typically associated with upscale lodging accommodations in a low-key setting.

Travel Question – What is the secret to getting discounted hotel rates?

Answer – Despite the alluring commercials of third party travel websites, they are not the best way to get an amazing deal. Always, always, scout out the lowest prices online through those third party sites, BUT always call the hotel’s direct number to book the room. Often, when you inform the hotel of the discounted rate they will either match it or beat it. Staff can see how you booked and will want to keep those who appear more brand-loyal happy versus the guy who is there just because of the cheap rate. It’s not a great deal if it’s an undesirable room.

Related: 6 Questions You Should Be Asking Your Hotel

Attractions

Travel Question – As a Disney newbie, what is the difference between Disney World, Disneyland, and the Magic Kingdom?

Answer – Disney World is actually the entire complex of Disney parks and attracts in Florida. Walt Disney World is comprised of 4 parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom along with Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Disney’s Blizzard Beach, Disney Springs, ESPN Wide World of Sports, and Disney’s BoardWalk Area. Hotels and resorts also make up the entire Disney World area.

The Magical Kingdom park refers to the first built park with Cinderella’s iconic castle and rides like Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion.

Disneyland is the theme park located in Anaheim, California and features Sleeping Beauty Castle. While the rides are similar to the Magical Kingdom, there are a few unique attractions like the Matterhorn Bobsleds.

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Flights

Travel Question – Help! It’s my first flying. How do I get through TSA? What do I do if there is delayed or cancelled flight? What can I not take on the plane?

Answer – We have a full rundown of for first time flyers here at First Time Flyer: How-To and Tips for Your First Flight, but, to get through TSA – have your passport or valid I.D. ready along with your boarding pass, make sure you don’t pack liquids in your carry on, wear shoes you can take on and off easily, and remember to put laptops in a separate bin to be scanned. If your flight is delayed email, call, and Tweet your airline as soon as you’re aware of any delays that will cause problems for you if you are catching a connection flight or have other issues. You cannot take any kind of weaponry on board and you cannot smoke – even electronics cigarettes. After you make it through TSA, you can fill a water bottle or bring snacks on board.