As jet fuel prices skyrocket, airlines are now charging $25 if you want to check in an extra bag at check-in. Is it just a matter of time before an airline ticket is based on our weight and size too?

Here are some overlooked tips on planning an a trip overseas to ensure a safe and healthy trip. One rule that you should never break- don't drink the water and don't accept ice in your beverage either.

Many people have used or heard of travel websites when planning a vacation or business travel. We show you how to get the most out of them and when not to use them.

We've used all the major "open" online travel websites: Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity. They are great for comparison shopping, but its better to use a travel agency if you are planning a trip for a large family or group.

VIA Canada serves all the major provinces in Canada. Rail travel in Canada is relatively cheap. This is due to a strong U.S. dollar.

Unlike Canada and the United States, most countries in Europe, the United Kingdom and Scotland have extensive rail service. The trains are modern and fast.

After taking those long walks or being stuck in the house all winter, your dog and cat are ready for a vacation. Here's what you need to do to get your pets ready for travel.

These rules were in effect in 2007 and are no longer applicable to 2008. We're not sure if the Bush Administration will allow these exemptions in 2008, so it is best to get passports for your kids now. What follows is the old rules.

Tired of dealing with bureaucrats when it comes to getting your passport? Maybe it's time to call your Member of Congress. While they can't perform miracles, they can get things moving if you have at least done your part. Note, things are much better this year so get that passport now. It's good for 10 years for adults.

Except for the adventurers, most international travelers have intentionally avoided the Middle East. It may be time to reconsider those stereotypes and consider a trip to Dubai for its beaches and winter skiing.

If you are doing some international travel in the next 15 days and need a US passport, look no further than the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) and its Passport Agencies. You can get your passport in one (1) day or 24 hours, especially if you are applying during the off peak months like Fall and Winter.

Usually traveling via private jet meant that you had to either own the jet, charter it or lease it. Now all of that has changed with private jet cards.

By checking the Center for Disease Control's Green Sheet and taking a few precautions, you'll be able to choose a healthy ship and enjoy your cruise.

The most important element of flying first class is not the food or service, but rather your seat and whether you can sleep. This varies by the airline so choose carefully.

Vacationing in the US is relatively easy especially for citizens of certain countries. If you want to stay longer than 90 days be prepared for a longer wait to get your US visa.

Note, this only occurred in 2007 and there is no assurance that the
Federal Government will reinstate this exemption for the summer of
2008.

Australia's famous Ghan Train basically covers the entire country from south to north. It's a two night trip that links you with three great Australian cities-- Adelaide in the south, Alice Springs in the interior and Darwin on the northern coast.

If you visit China and get to Beijing, you should definitely consider visiting Tibet. Rather than fly, take the China-Tibet Train and you'll see a part of the world that is talked about but often not seen by the average tourist.

The Trans-Siberian Railroad runs from major cities like Moscow to the city of Vladivostok on the Sea of Japan. The Trans-Siberian boasts being the longest continuous rail service in the world.

Time to rethink the notion of guided tours. Of course they can include full bus service or just a morning tour of your destination the day after you arrive. What you do with the rest of your time is up to you.