Transportation
Transportation is a broad subject encompassing a vast number of companies and operators, only a few of which I will be able to mention here. When it comes to airfare, everyone has their favorite search websites and there are plenty to choose from. Once it comes down to making an actual purchase, I generally prefer to book directly with the carrier unless the price is significantly less (which is rare). The airlines like to take care of their own and should a problem arise, you want them on your side. I have found that if your itinerary is more complicated than a simple roundtrip, it can often pay off to speak to a human. Call me old fashioned, but it works.
A frequently underutilized tool when it comes to the small “moving parts” of a trip is your hotel concierge. Besides making dinner reservations and securing event tickets, they are an excellent source of knowledge and ability when it comes to transfers, train tickets, etc.
AirTreks makes complicated international air itineraries seem simple. If you have ever wanted to take an Around-The-World trip, this should be your first stop – it is their specialty.
Amstar is a destination management company offering prearranged airport transfers and sightseeing tours in Mexico, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Hawaii.
Auto Europe compares and offers booking capability for car rentals throughout Europe with all major car rental companies.
Belmond operates the most luxurious rail journeys in the world, including the Royal Scotsman, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the Hiram Bingham to Machu Picchu and the Eastern & Oriental Express.
BikesBooking allows you to prebook a rental for a motorcycle, scooter or bicycle in many locations around the world. Their site lets you compare prices, rental terms and company locations and confirm your rental before you leave home. Get moving!
Carey International is a leader in chauffeured car services with offices and local affiliates in over 1000 cities worldwide across two distinct brands – Carey and Embarque. Their standards are consistent around the globe.
Direct Ferries works as a third-party ticketing service that allows users to compare many different routes, ports and ferry operators. They allow access to practically any port in Europe and North Africa, as well as many different ports in North America, Asia, and the South Pacific.
Eurostar operates the high-speed rail service connecting the United Kingdom with France, Belgium and the Netherlands, traveling through the Channel Tunnel.
Ferryhopper is a third-party booking service for a variety of ferry companies operating in the Eastern Mediterranean, primarily in the Greek Isles.
The Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel for a specific period (1, 2 or 3 weeks) for long distance train travel in Japan, a relatively small country with a huge rail network.
Rail Europe is the premier overseas booking service for European train travel, including rail passes and point-to-point tickets.
Trainline is a quick and easy booking tool to compare fares, confirm reservations, and purchase tickets on trains and busses across Europe.
