FAQ

Jet lag occurs when the body cannot adjust to the time difference caused by long-distance trips made over relatively short times, and can arise primarily from travel to destinations with time zone differences of six hours or more. Common symptoms include drowsiness, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

To avoid jet lag, go to sleep earlier than usual if flying to the east, and go to sleep later than usual if flying to the west on the night prior to travel.

Don't depart exhausted — or hung-over — then plan to "catch up on the plane."

Onboard, drink plenty of water instead of juice, coffee, or tea. Set your watch to the time you plan to reach your destination. Remove your shoes and get your feet up if you can. Use earplugs, a blindfold, a blanket and/or a neck rest.

What is e-ticket, or electronic ticket?

An electronic ticket or e-ticket is used to represent the purchase of a seat on a passenger airline, either online through a website or by telephone through your agent. This form of airline ticket is rapidly replacing paper tickets. Where paper tickets are still available, airlines frequently charge extra for issuing them. E-tickets are both convenient and safe.

Once a reservation is made, an e-ticket exists only as a digital record in airline computers. Customers usually print out a copy of their receipt which contains their passenger name, record locator or reservation number and the e-ticket number.

Is there a difference between regular check in procedure having traditional paper tickets and check-in with an e-ticket?

Unlike paper tickets, where the flight coupons are withdrawn from your ticket subsequently one after another for which he/she is issued a boarding card, to check in with an e-ticket, the passenger usually comes to the check-in counter and presents only the confirmation or reservation code. In some airlines it's not even necessary to present the code, as the reservation is confirmed solely upon the passenger's identity. After confirming the reservation, the passenger checks-in his/her luggage and is given a boarding pass. There are also convenient online check-ins.

How can I check in online?

Many airlines provide online check-in services through their official websites. You can check-in online in advance of the twenty-four-hour airline restriction or several hours before the flight so that your preferable seat is secured and you spend less time at the airport in check-in and security procedures. If you arrive at the airport late and have not checked-in online, your preferred seat might not be available, but you will be allowed to sit in one of the left over seats.

Official airline websites help people holding e-tickets accomplish online check-ins in advance of the twenty-four-hour airline restriction. These sites store a passenger's flight information and then when the airline opens up for online check-in the data is transferred to the airline and the boarding pass is emailed back to the customer.

Can children travel alone?

There are no official guidelines regarding the transport of unaccompanied children. Fees and regulations vary between airlines. Generally, children younger than 8 years of age will not be permitted to travel alone. And all children ages 8 to 14, unless accompanied by an adult, must travel as unaccompanied minors. Airlines require that a parent or guardian fill out a form with relevant information about the child. At the check-in, the child receives an information card in a ticket pouch. Unaccompanied children are pre-boarded on flights and introduced to flight attendants. At connecting airports, flight attendants will escort children to the gate or to a special service office for gate escort if the flight does not depart immediately. Upon arrival to the final destination, children will be accompanied by airline personnel to the meeting party and will assist through customs if applicable.

A responsible adult must accompany the minor to the airport and give the following information: name, address, telephone number, and government-issued photo ID number for both the person handing over the minor at the point of origin and the person receiving the minor at the destination.

Immigration officials for both the country of origin and destination must be consulted regarding any documents or authorizations required for the minor to enter or leave the respective countries. Unaccompanied minors will not be boarded unless all requirements have been met.

Do I Need Travel Immunizations or Shots for Travel?

Whether or not you need travel immunizations (shots for travel) depends in part on where you will be traveling. Information on immunization requirements for your destination can be obtained from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) http://www.cdc.gov/travel and the US Department of State http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html#health

What are the entry requirements for my destination?

For information on entry requirements for a specific country, please go to the Entry/Exit Requirements section in the Consular Information Sheet for the country you are interested in at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html. You may also contact the U.S. embassy or consulate of that country for further information.

Do I need to register with US Embassy overseas?

Registration is not mandatory, but you are strongly advised to do so if you plan on staying in a foreign country for over one month, or are traveling to a region experiencing political unrest. US Embassies and Consulates overseas can assist you in emergency situations and provide evacuation if necessary. For more information, please visit: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/registration/registration_1186.html

A list of US Embassies and Consulates can be found at: http://usembassy.state.gov/

Is an electronic ticket safe?

An electronic ticket or e-ticket is used to purchase a seat on a commercial airline. An e-ticket (electronic ticket) is a paperless electronic document used for ticketing passengers. Electronic ticket data is stored in CRS (Computer Reservations System). A confirmation number is assigned to the passenger, along with the flight number(s), date(s), departure location(s), and destination location(s). When checking in at the airport, the passenger simply presents positive identification. Then necessary boarding passes are issued, and the passenger can check luggage and proceed through security to the gate area. All major airlines will charge a fee if a passenger insists on a paper ticket where itinerary is electronic ticket eligible.

E-tickets are very popular because they allow extra services such as: online/telephone/self-service kiosk, early check-in, printing boarding passes at airport kiosks and at locations other than airports and automated refunds and exchanges online, by telephone and at kiosks .

Can elderly and passengers with disabilities get assistance?

Assistance is available for passengers with disabilities, and is provided by airline and airport representatives around the world. You need to advise your travel agent of the nature and extent of the assistance you will need. Some of the services that are offered free of charge are stretchers, wheelchairs and oxygen tanks. Always notify your agent about your medical condition if you may require special medical treatment or other en route.

Can I order a specific meal according to my medical condition or my personal habits?

Yes. Airlines are considerate to peoples’ different eating schedules and restrictions and want to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Special meals are offered on board intercontinental flights to customers that cannot eat the regular meals served on board. All special meals must be ordered at least 24 hours before departure.
Accordingly, every passenger is eligible to choose between major world cuisines and dietary meals. You can order special meals like Asian vegetarian, vege-strict (non-egg, non-diary), vego-lacto ovo (eggs and diary ok), baby or child meals, but also various dietary meals in case of allergies like gluten-free meal, or low cholesterol meal, diabetic meal, low calorie meal, low-purine meal, high-fiber meal, non lactose meal, low sodium or bland, soft meals etc. They also provide religious meals like Moslem, Kosher, or Hindu.

Always notify your travel agent in advance if you have food allergies and require special diet food or if you have certain medical conditions that may require treatment en route. All special meals must be announced in advance. Do not expect to get them on board if you did not ask for special meals before then.

How do I travel with an infant (s)?

On flights solely within the US, infants (0 to 24 months) not occupying a seat can travel for free. On international routes, infants are charged 10% of an adult fare plus applicable taxes. Infant tickets cannot generate frequent flyer points, and infants are not allowed to check in luggage except for certain airlines who sometimes introduce additional allowances due to marketing actions. Some airlines will allow extra carry-on items to be brought on board, too. On longer flights you may request a bassinet, but some airlines may have an age limit for the bassinets; others may have a weight limit. Be sure to check before you go. There are many things you can do to make flying with children comfortable. Please note that the price accommodation may depend on how many infants travel with an adult. Be prepared because not everyone will be charged equally. Useful information can be found on: http://www.twinslist.org/flySeat.htm or http://www.flyingwithkids.com/

How can I change my travel plans?

Discounted airline tickets often either do not allow any changes, or carry certain restrictions. Before purchasing your ticket, ask your travel agent what the fees and penalties are for changing or canceling your airline ticket.

Can I change the name on the ticket?

Name changes are not allowed on airline tickets or travel documents.

How can I apply for a US passport?

The Passport Services Office provides information and services to American citizens about how to obtain, replace or change a passport. For more information please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

Will I be allowed to check in for my flight without a photo ID?

It's possible. However, there are no guarantees. As most travelers are aware, airports across the globe have heightened security measures in recent years. Airports now mandate that all passengers over the age of 18 present a government-issued form of photo identification such as a military ID, driver's license, or passport and visa or other authorizations if required at the time of check-in. It's best to call your agent or airline and speak to a customer-service representative about its specific policies. Keep in mind that some carriers may be more lenient than others. (And please be aware that international travel may necessitate additional forms of identification and immigration documents, such as a passport, visas, authorizations...)

Most airlines insist that all passengers must present a government- or state-issued photo ID at check-in -- no ifs, ands, or buts. But other carriers are a bit more flexible and accept two alternative forms of identification that would most likely suffice. We suggest bringing along any or all of the following to improve your chances of getting on board: a voter registration card, employee identification card, insurance identification card, credit cards issued in your name (cards with your photo are best), birth certificate, or a social-security card.

Another option is acquiring a state-issued ID. Unfortunately, it may take up to 60 days for one to arrive in your mailbox. But if you have more time on your hands you should contact your state's department of motor vehicles to inquire about obtaining a photo ID card for use in case your license ever goes missing. While this card will not allow you to legally drive in your state, it is a legal form of identification accepted by the airlines. To obtain this type of ID, you'll usually need to furnish a birth certificate, social-security number, and a small fee to your local motor-vehicle department.

Always inform yourself about security measures before you go to the airport.

Where can I exchange US dollars for local currency?

Currency exchange offices are located at most international airports in the US and abroad. You can check currency conversion rates at http://www.xe.com/ucc/

Where can I find temperature, length, area, volume or weight conversions?

They are available through http://www.amadeus.net/home/converters/en/area_en.htm.

How do I apply for a visa?

You can apply for a visa to your destination country directly through their Embassy or Consulates in the US http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.htmlor through numerous passport and visa agencies.

What is the time difference between the US and my destination country?

You can get local times by visiting http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/

What are the telephone dialing codes?

For world dialing codes please see http://www.amadeus.net/home/dialing_codes/en/index.htm

My name is misspelled on the airline ticket. Will this cause any problems?

The name on your ticket must be an exact match with the name on the government issued photo ID/passport. If your name is misspelled on your airline ticket or reservation, please contact us ASAP at info@toskanatravel.com

How far in advance should I purchase my airline tickets to get the lowest airfare, and make sure I get them in time for my flight?

It is best to purchase your airline tickets as far in advance as possible to get the cheapest possible airfare. If the airline permits e-tickets, there is no time restriction for delivery. If the airline requires a paper ticket, please choose the appropriate service using FedEx for delivery.

How long will it take to receive my refund?

Please allow 4-6 weeks to obtain a refund after the airline ticket is received. Please note that refunds to a debit card may take longer to process. Check with your financial institution for specific information.

How do I book online?

Simply enter your departure and arrival information in the request page using city names or official 3 digit city codes. Our Internet booking engine performs a comprehensive search of the best airfares in the updated and always accurate database and displays all flight options. Next, select the best flights that most closely match your travel plans and complete the purchase by inputting the required information. Once you have completed your purchase, you will receive automatic confirmation via e-mail that will include your airline, cruise, hotel or car reservation details.

How fast do we get our airline tickets?

If the airline will permit an e-ticket, we will e-mail you an e-ticket confirmation. If the airline will NOT permit an e-ticket, and a paper ticket must be issued (in very few cases), we will send the airline ticket via FedEx to the shipping address you enter in the reservation, the charge will depend on the type of shipping service you request.

Are there any differences between published fares and special airfares?

In short, no! We offer many special airfares that are available only on our website along with regular published airfares that are sold by major airlines. These special airfares are usually below the lowest published fare available directly from an airline company. Most special airfares do not require you to purchase in advance. Seat assignments, and frequent flyer mileage is generally allowed.

Are airfares displayed for round-trip or one-way travel?

When you select the cities, dates, and number of passengers, etc., you are given the option of selecting round-trip or one-way travel. If you select round-trip, the price given is for round-trip airfare. If you select one-way, the price given is for one-way airfare.

Can I use my debit card to pay for airline tickets or cruises?

Yes, all flight reservations may be purchased using debit cards that allow such purchases. Please make sure that your debit card has a daily limit that will cover the total cost of all tickets being issued. Please note: Most debit cards take more time to process refunds, resulting in a delay of the account being credited.

Can I get a refund if I can't take my trip?

Usually, published fare tickets are non-refundable. In the event that you must cancel your trip, most airlines will allow you to apply the value for travel within one year, and penalties apply. Most special airfares allow refunds, with a penalty ranging from $300 up to the full amount of the ticket. Restrictions on changes and cancellations vary.

Once the payment has been submitted, changes to your booking are subject to a $300 fee plus the difference in the fare at the time the change is made. Any changes are also subject to availability at that time. Until you contact us and we determine the specific rules of the ticket you purchased and the changes you want to make, we're only able to provide you with the general policies outlined above. Our customer service representatives will calculate additional charges on the day you contact us. Please note: All paper tickets must be sent to our main office for refunds or exchanges. Some airfares may not permit changes once the tickets have been issued.

How do I cancel or change my travel reservation?

To cancel or change your travel reservation, please contact one of our customer service agents via e-mail, or telephone to be advised of the specific cancellation policies.

What should I do if my ticket is lost or stolen and partly used or not yet used?

You must expect the airline to charge you the processing fee. Most airlines require you to repurchase a ticket in order to continue your trip. If you no longer meet all of the restrictions on your discount fare (e.g., seven-day advance purchase) the new ticket may cost more than the old one did. In that case, however, it is generally the higher fare that is eventually refunded, as long as you don't change any of the cities, flights or dates on your trip.

It takes from 30 days to one year and 30 days to process your refund request. This is due to a ticket being valid on most airlines for up to one year. If anyone uses or cashes in your ticket while the refund is pending, the airline may refuse to give you your money back.

Airlines will require you to sign an indemnity if someone subsequently uses the ticket.

If your airline ticket does go astray, you should immediately report the lost/stolen ticket to the airline that is shown as the issuing carrier at the top of the ticket, as well as notify the local police department and file a police report.

If the ticketing staff says that they can't give you a replacement ticket and require you to send your lost ticket through their normal procedures (which may take months), you'll have to purchase a replacement ticket. Most airlines will charge you the going fare for the new ticket rather than the fare you paid for your own ticket; however, normally the amount of the ultimate refund will be the new fare rather than the old fare. If the new fare is cheaper, be sure to request a refund for the lost ticket rather than the replacement ticket.

All in all, getting a refund or replacement for a lost ticket is a lot of trouble, and there's no guarantee you'll receive either one. So the best advice is- don't lose the ticket in the first place!

Please keep in mind that nowadays electronic tickets are widely utilized so the possibility of losing your ticket does not practically exist. It can happen only if you purchase a paper ticket.

How can I book a seat in bulkhead, exit row aisles or window seats?

Ask your travel agent to book you a seat that you prefer or do it yourself if booking online. Bulkheads offer extra legroom and no one can recline his seat back into your face. Remember that you have to store your carry-on luggage in the overheads. Exit rows have the luxury of extra foot room, but you must be able to open the emergency door, if needed.

What should I dress for duress?

Wear flat-soled, lace-up shoes so you can loosen them if your feet swell. Rubber soles may catch on the exit slide during an emergency, and dress shoes don't adjust for swelling.

How can I protect my bags from getting lost?

Checked bags can get lost. You cannot do much once you check in your bags, but if you have to make sure, use curbside skycaps to avoid lugging heavy bags through the terminal. Always use luggage locks; some baggage handlers get over-curious about what's inside your bag. Always check the luggage tag on your bag. Mark your bags and lock them so that they are not easily accessible by an unauthorized person. Do not leave your bags unattended.

How can I entertain myself during the flight?

Bring plenty of magazines; they're lighter than books and disposable. Don't forget your iPod, either; it's the perfect way to catch up on those motivational tunes you've been meaning to listen to. It can also help to avoid unwelcome chatter from the person sitting next to you. Long haul flights usually have additional equipment and offer a variety of music, shows, the latest films, news and the current flight’s route tracking.

How can I adjust my posture in order to ease the back pain and muscle tension during long flights?

Airline seats don't adjust for relaxed spinal posture. Support your lumbar spine with a rolled-up blanket and your head and neck with a pillow. Another pillow or blanket to prop up your feet will relieve pressure on the backs of your thighs.

Do "air-aerobics". A number of airlines offer in-seat exercise routines to help reduce swelling and pain from cramped muscles and reduced circulation. A number of airlines offer in-flight tips.

Sit up front. A recently released Harvard study found that the air quality in aircraft cabins didn't meet minimum standards for office buildings. You'll find less carbon dioxide in the front seats. During layovers, get off, take a walk and breathe deeply.

Can I bring water or other liquids for personal use onboard?

No. There are strong restrictions regarding allowed and prohibited content of your hand baggage. Ask your agent to provide you with updated rules and regulations. Nevertheless, you can buy some in free tax transit zones where you will be provided with an accepted receipt - proof of purchase. Besides, water and non-alcoholic beverages are free of charge for all passengers. Ask the flight attendants and staff onboard.

How can I avoid dehydration due to the incredibly dry air in planes?

Drink eight ounces of water every hour. Airplane air has only 1% to 10% humidity, even less than most deserts! You'll need more than the two small cart drinks offered on most flights. Since you cannot bring your own bottled water, ask for water and juices from the stewardess onboard and avoid coffee, alcohol and carbonated drinks, which are dehydrating diuretics.

What kind of food can I eat during the flight?

Eat light. All meals onboard are carefully chosen so that they can be easily digested and do not cause any stomach problems. They offer fruit plates and vegetarian meals, which do not contain much salt or fat. You cannot bring your own healthy snacks, like dehydrated soups or nutrition bars. Ask your agent to book a special meal for you according to your preference or food habits.

How can I adjust to a new time zone?

Use daylight to adjust to a new time zone. The Association of Flight Attendants say that the secret is to follow the same wake-up, bedtime, work and meal hours in your new location as your old time zone. Don't try to catch up on sleep by going to bed right after you land or trying to stay up just because you gained a few hours. You'll adjust more quickly if you follow the clock.

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