The Journey

At the end of the day it's all about "The Journey". This popular topic covers the planning, booking, the flight, and then the arrival at you destination. Dive into this section to explore tips and advice for every step of your journey.

Conquering a fear of flying

For many, flying is a joy and a privilege. But for nervous flyers, the experience could be completely different. Just the thought of stepping foot in a plane can make some travellers very nervous. One AFF member seeks advice on how to overcome their fear of flying ahead of a trip to the United States. … Continued

18 Aug 2015 The Journey

“Automated Passport Control” expedites USA arrivals

Australian travellers to the United States will be pleased to know that “Automated Passport Control” (APC) kiosks can now be used when entering the country. APC machines have now been installed at many major airports in the United States, including Los Angeles, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, San Francisco and both of New York’s international airports. This … Continued

20 Jul 2015 Post Flight

Wider middle seats a solution to the seating squeeze?

This week our members debate the pros and cons of making the middle seats on planes wider. Middle seats are usually an unpopular choice for flyers as passengers in middle seats are wedged between two other passengers. Middle seat occupants often complain of having less space and the seats can be particularly uncomfortable for larger … Continued

30 Jun 2015 In Flight

Strategies for sleeping soundly on planes

Our members share their tips and experiences in getting some shut-eye on aircraft. Some lucky members are able to sleep with ease, even in economy. For others, getting some rest at 35,000 feet can be a great challenge. For those who find that sleeping in the air doesn’t come naturally, there are numerous strategies available. … Continued

27 Jun 2015 In Flight

Secretly Scheming a Surprise Holiday

One crafty member hopes to surprise a lucky loved one with an overseas holiday to a secret destination. They know the surprise will be appreciated, but ponder the risk of inadvertently blowing their cover. Countless opportunities exist for the secret to be let out.  Overheard phone calls and misplaced tickets are just the start of … Continued

Forced downgrade leaves Expedia customer fuming

One member is furious that online travel agent Expedia downgraded their business class ticket to economy without explanation. Having booked a business class trip to Europe, Expedia now says the member will need to pay $1,200 to “upgrade” the ticket back to business class. When our member then threatened to cancel the ticket, Expedia demanded … Continued

Lost Luggage Havoc

One member was shocked recently to discover their carry-on luggage had been stolen between boarding the plane and take-off. This member had placed their carry-on items including a computer and credit cards in the seat pocket after boarding. They then got up to use the bathroom before take-off, returning only to discover that the items … Continued

11 Jun 2015 In Flight

Toddlers in First Class: A Recipe for Disaster?

Screaming toddlers can be a nightmare anywhere, let alone on a long flight. But one member this week wonders if they are simply asking for trouble by taking their 18-month-old with them on a long flight in first class. Of prime concern to our member is the disruption and inconvenience a screaming infant could cause … Continued

28 May 2015 In Flight

Flying to Europe & back for under $1000!

The introduction of “low-cost carriers” has seen a dramatic drop in the price of airfares, making it possible to fly long distances for just a few hundred dollars, or short distances for less than the cost of the cab to the airport! But when it comes to cheap flights to Europe, there have traditionally been … Continued

New Year Travel Aspirations

Our members reminisce about the year that was and ramp up their 2015 travel goals. Some members commit the ultimate frequent flyer faux pas and admit that high on their list of priorities for 2015 is to fly less! Air travel Safety also features high on our member’s wish-lists with some members revealing their noble … Continued

Flight Booking Regret

Post Travel Expo regret has hit one member hard this week. Our member spontaneously purchased an economy flight from Sydney to LA with friends and is now regretting the decision. The prospect of 14 hours in economy is enough to drive our member to drink! The current attitude is putting the “WHY” into Y-class. Our … Continued