APNewsBreak: Most Ala. firms miss immigration goal

By Jay Reeves
Associated Press / April 4, 2012

FILE - This 2007 file photo shows Bumper Nets owner Homer Brown, whose business in Hoover, Ala., is among the employers that have complied with a new requirement under Alabama's immigration law, that all business entities in the state register with the federal E-Verify system. Statistics show that thousands of employers failed to meet the April 1 deadline for registering with the system. (AP Photo/The Birrmingham News, Hal Yeager, File)

PELHAM, Ala.—Tens of thousands of Alabama businesses have missed a deadline set by the state's strict immigration law to register with a federal database used to verify the citizenship status of job applicants, according to registration numbers.

Some companies said they didn't know about the requirement that they use E-Verify to check on new employees, or didn't think it applied to them. Others rushed to fill out the Internet-based registration in the days before the April 1 deadline.

Failing to register doesn't result by itself in charges or fines, but using the system affords employers legal protection in certain cases if they are found to employ illegal immigrants. State officials and industry groups are urging more employers to complete the free registration.

"Right now we're not penalizing businesses. We're trying to help them, to be a safe harbor," said Katheryn Kennedy, a spokeswoman for the Alabama Department of Homeland Security.

The immigration crackdown signed into law last year gave every Alabama employer or business entity until the start of this month to enroll in E-Verify, which is run by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Businesses also are required to begin using the system to check immigration status.

Companies that hire illegal immigrants face penalties including the loss of their business license. To encourage registration, businesses have legal protection if they screened a worker with E-Verify and the person checked out OK but was later determined to be living in the country illegally.

Citizenship and Immigration Services said only 18,137 companies had enrolled in the E-Verify system by Monday, a fraction of the total of employers in the state. There was a late surge of about 4,000 registrations last week, said Bill Wright, a spokesman for the agency in Washington.

The Alabama Department of Revenue said last year's tax returns showed there were 368,613 companies doing business in the state, and that doesn't include public employers like city or county governments. Gov. Robert Bentley's office said the state Department of Industrial Relations counts only 85,000 companies with employees in the state. Some of the discrepancy could be explained by companies doing business in the state with employees who are based elsewhere.

But it's unclear exactly how many businesses are required to register, a sign of continuing confusion over the law. Legislators are also tweaking the law after courts blocked some provisions in response to lawsuits by the Obama administration and others.

While the law says "every business entity or employer in this state shall enroll in E-Verify," Bentley spokesman Jeremy King wasn't able to say Tuesday which employers must register.

"That's for the lawyers to figure out," he said.

The state, like others with similar laws, promoted the requirement through news releases, seminars and websites; and some local governments sent notices to vendors and business license holders. Registration only takes a few minutes and the state has a telephone hotline to assist small companies with registration.
At Carpet Outlet, a family-run business in suburban Birmingham, Cathy McKay had a stack of paperwork on her desk that she received from county government and the local school system about the illegal immigration law, but she has yet to fill them out and hadn't registered with E-Verify.

"We haven't been hiring; we've been firing. So it's not much of an issue with hiring new people," she said. "I hope they don't come get me."

A few miles up U.S. 31 at Johnson Motors South, a small car lot, Randy Pendley said he was enrolling in E-Verify a day late after getting an email about the requirement from a trade group, the Alabama Independent Automobile Dealers Association.

"We have four owners and we've never had any employees, but we still have to do it," said Pendley. "I went to the website this morning to look at it."

The 4,000-member Alabama Retail Association was among the industry organizations that spent months holding seminars, sending emails and staging conference calls to inform businesses of the requirement, but it was still hit with a flurry of late questions.

"Even last week I was surprised by the number of people who were saying, `What are you talking about?'" said Nancy Dennis, a spokeswoman with association.

Other businesses are having have difficulty complying with the law because they lack Internet access, Dennis said.

Still, thousands of Alabama businesses have registered. Those include a catfish processor, public libraries, a women's clinics, churches, construction companies, truck-driving schools, law firms and auto supply stores.

The owner of a store with 10 workers that sells pool tables and other games said registering wasn't difficult even though he's not a "computer person." Homer Brown said he previously verified citizenship using documents for the Hoover-based store called Bumper Nets, and that seemed to work fine.

"I'd rather handle it the way I had before, but I guess they wanted to be able to check it a little closer," he said.

Nine states require all or most employers to register with E-Verify, according to LawLogix, a Phoenix, Ariz.-based company that sells immigration-related software. LawLogix attorney Ann Cun said larger employers may have an easier time tracking laws than smaller ones, but companies have a duty to keep up with government requirements.

"At the end of the day, the onus is really on the employer," said Cun.

In Arizona, supporters of that state's law say an E-Verify provision has helped reduce the number of people who work in the state without proper legal documents. Opponents say the requirement has only driven an underground economy even deeper, with employers making more handshake deals with workers rather than going through proper legal channels. Arizona's law predates Alabama's.

A provision similar to Alabama's took effect in South Carolina on Jan. 1, but officials say employers are not required to join E-Verify until they are ready to hire new workers. Georgia's law on illegal immigration also requires employers to register for E-Verify, but employers with fewer than 11 workers are exempt.

Even those businesses that have registered with the system could face difficulties. A study by the General Accounting Office in 2010 found that E-Verify employment checks can result in erroneous answers if the same name is entered into the system in more than one way, which sometimes happens when employers check someone from an unfamiliar cultural background.

At the car dealership, Pendley said the first step in joining E-Verify was gathering the paperwork he needed to fill out forms.

"It's really not a lot to do, but you have to identify the company and have a federal tax ID number," he said. "It will probably take about five minutes."
© Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Scarborough: Nobody thinks Romney is going to win in general election

By Drew Katchen
-
Wed Apr 4, 2012 6:26 AM EDT

Mitt Romney took home some pretty serious wins last night in Washington D.C., Maryland and Wisconsin.

And this morning, Joe Scarborough and Time's Mark Halperin had a quick exchange about Romney's odds at winning the general election later this year.

Scarborough said no one is expecting Romney to pull out a win.

Joe Scarborough: Nobody thinks Romney is going to win. Can we just say this for everybody at home? I have yet to meet a person in the Republican establishment that thinks Mitt Romney is going to win the general election this year. They won’t say it on TV because they’ve got to go on TV, and they don’t want people writing them nasty emails. I obviously don’t care. I have yet to meet anybody in the Republican establishment that worked for George W. Bush, that works in the Republican Congress, that worked for Ronald Reagan that thinks Mitt Romney is going to win the general election.

Mark Halperin: I don’t totally agree with that, but even if you think Mitt Romney is going to lose. Still, in 2016 there are so many strong candidates out there.

Scarborough: Who?

Halperin: Mitch Daniels, Bobby Jindal, Chris Christie, Paul Ryan, Jeb Bush.

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Google money going to law enforcement agencies

By Laura Crimaldi, Associated Press
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Rhode Island law enforcement agencies that participated in an investigation that resulted in Google forfeiting $500 million last year will receive $230 million of that money, federal officials said Monday.
Google forfeited the money last August to settle a U.S. government investigation into its distribution of online ads from Canadian pharmacies illegally selling prescription drugs to American consumers. The investigation found that Google allowed Canadian pharmacies that illegally imported drugs into the United States to advertise on its AdWords platform.

The $500 million sum represents the gross revenues Google collected in ad buys from hundreds of Canadian pharmacies, plus the earnings generated from the illegal drug sales to American consumers from 2003 to 2009, federal officials have said.

U.S. Attorney Peter F. Neronha said it may be the largest sum ever distributed among law enforcement groups under a program that allows forfeited funds to be shared with agencies that participate in federal probes.

"I am extremely pleased that of that $500 million dollars forfeited by Google, $230 million will be distributed to five state and local agencies that contributed investigators to the legal team headed by my office," Neronha said. "It is truly my hope and my expectation that these monies will be used for the benefit of all Rhode Islanders, by enhancing our overall ability to fight crime and keeping all Rhode Islanders safe."

East Providence police, North Providence police and the attorney general's office will each receive $60 million, Neronha said. State police will receive $45 million and the Rhode Island National Guard will receive $5 million. The shares are based on the time and resources each agency provided to the investigation, Neronha said.

And $100 million will be shared by four federal agencies that participated in the probe, officials said. The U.S. Postal Service is receiving $40 million and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service is getting $35 million. The U.S. Secret Service is receiving $15 million and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is getting $10 million.

The remaining $170 million is being deposited into the Department of Justice's Assets Forfeiture Fund, a national account used to pay expenses from forfeiture operations, including seizing property. The fund can also be used to pay for some general investigatory expenses.

The funds will be distributed to the local and state agencies after they submit spending plans, officials said. There are rules in place governing how the money can be used. Law enforcement investigations, training and equipment are among the items that can be paid for with the funds.

The money can't be used to replace funds that have already been set aside for law enforcement purposes, meaning a community can't draw from the forfeited money to cover the annual budget for its police force, Neronha said. For the most part, the funds also cannot be used to pay salaries, although there are exceptions, according to a government guide on the program. The funds are subject to auditing and other monitoring, officials said.

Representatives from the local and state agencies receiving the money declined to detail how they plan to spend it, but they vowed to use it responsibly. The amounts coming into North Providence and East Providence represent windfalls. The annual police budget is $12 million in East Providence and $6 million in North Providence, according to their representatives.

Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin said he wants to use the money to make it easier for his staffers to do their jobs. He gave the example of time cards, which Kilmartin said are still done on paper.

"Needless to say, the amount of money is absolutely staggering," he said.

In a statement, Google said: "We take responsibility for our actions. With hindsight, we shouldn't have allowed these ads on Google in the first place."

The Mountain View, Calif.-based company has said it is no longer letting Canadian online pharmacies advertise to U.S. consumers. Google has also said it has taken steps to prevent shady operators from advertising on the Internet search engine, including suing advertisers who were running scams and suing rogue pharmacies that were trying to circumvent company policies and verification procedures.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Scotiabank Turns to Immigrants to Boost Canadian Banking

By Sean B. Pasternak - Apr 3, 2012 7:16 PM GMT+0500
Bank of Nova Scotia, Canada’s third- largest bank, plans to increase the share of banking services it offers for newcomers to the country, said Anatol von Hahn, the lender’s group head of domestic banking.

Emigrating India, China or Mexico, we try to get you before you arrive to get you to open some of your banking services,” von Hahn said yesterday during an interview in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where the Toronto-based bank is holding its annual meeting.

By gaining a larger share of immigrants, which von Hahn said enter Canada at a rate about 250,000 per year, Scotiabank can increase its “share of wallet” for services such as mortgages and credit cards. Von Hahn estimates the bank has a 17 percent to 18 percent share of newcomers to Canada, with the biggest “opportunity” to expand being with skilled workers who come to Canada for a short period.

“The bigger objective is, we need to get more customers through the front door so that we can provide them with our services,” said von Hahn, who has been with Scotiabank since 1984. “That’s of course a very hard thing to do in a mature market when most of your customers are already banked, and it’s difficult to switch them.”

Domestic banking accounted for 32 percent of the lender’s C$5.3 billion ($5.35 billion) in record net income last year, and von Hahn’s unit was the biggest contributor to profit. The lender uses its moniker of being “Canada’s most international bank,” with operations in more than 50 countries, as a starting point to seek out new clients before they move to Canada.

Scotiabank often receives referrals from immigration consultants in the countries it does business in for clients moving to Canada. The bank also has a three-person branch inside Mexico’s Canadian embassy, where newcomers to Canada often visit and explore banking relationships before they leave the country, von Hahn said.

In addition, Scotiabank plans to bolster domestic banking profit by expanding auto lending and small banking businesses, von Hahn said.

“There’s a lot more in the small business segment where we can continue to grow,” said von Hahn, who has worked for the bank in Chile, Argentina and Mexico. “I think that’s an area you’ll continue to see us grow in.”

To contact the reporter on this story: Sean B. Pasternak in Toronto at spasternak@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: David Scanlan at dscanlan@bloomberg.net; David Scheer at dscheer@bloomberg.net

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Microsoft Presses: More Green Cards For India IT

Oracle, Google, Cisco, and Intel also push Senate to pass stalled legislation to end per-country caps on employment-based green cards.

By Paul McDougall InformationWeek
April 04, 2012 09:22 AM

Microsoft is calling on the Senate to pass stalled legislation that would put an end to per-country caps on employment-based green cards.

"Our current green card system is not up to the task, with highly valued professionals spending a decade or more mired in backlogs," said Microsoft general counsel Brad Smith in a blog post. "Government officials are warning that these backlogs will become even more severe next month, especially for individuals born in India and China."

8 IT HIring Strategies Of Top CIOs



Smith called on the Senate to pass the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act (H.R. 3012)), which sailed through the House of Representatives in November with a 389-15 vote. The act would make the 140,000 employment-based green cards that the U.S. issues each year available on a first come, first served basis. Currently, individuals from any one country can account for no more than 7% of the total work-related green cards issued.

"The Senate should act now and pass this important legislation," said Smith.

Critics of the current system maintain that it punishes individuals from big countries such as India and China, which produce large numbers of technology professionals. Those from smaller countries such as, say, Iceland, have a much easier time getting employment-based green cards because their countries rarely exceed the 7% cap.

[ India also is unhappy with the U.S. visa process. Read India Lodges Complaint Over H-1B Visa Rejections. ]

The Act would not increase the total number of green cards available, a fact that helped it win broad, bipartisan support in the House. Even lawmakers, such as Long Island Democrat Tim Bishop, who in the past have sought tougher restrictions on companies' ability to outsource work or import foreign IT pros, voted in favor of the Act.

Numerous tech companies in addition to Microsoft also support the bill. They include Oracle, Google, Cisco, and Intel. Industry support also came from, among others, the Semiconductor Industry Association, the Telecommunications Industry Association, and the Software and Information Industry Association.

More controversially, Microsoft would like to see more H-1B visas made available to foreign tech workers. The government currently caps the annual number at 65,000, not including 20,000 set aside for foreign graduates of U.S. universities. "Even with our economy in the midst of a prolonged recovery, the annual allotment of H-1B visas is projected to be exhausted earlier than last year," said Smith.

The H-1B visa program is controversial as, unlike with employment-related green cards, it does not require employers to show that there are no Americans available for a particular job. It's also difficult for H-1B workers to switch companies once they are in the U.S., a fact that, critics say, turns them into indentured laborers that are more attractive to employers than Americans, who are free to jump to another company whenever they choose.

But Smith said Microsoft and other tech companies need to import labor due to the tight supply of U.S. born technology workers. He said the unemployment rate in the tech sector is less than 4%. "Our economy is hungry for workers with strong educational backgrounds, especially those with degrees in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) fields."

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services this week began accepting green cards for the government's next fiscal year, which starts on October 1.

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New immigrants are the ‘hidden homeless’

Anthony Rozario can smile about his subsidized apartment now, but the Bangladeshi father and his wife used to share a small Scarborough apartment with three adult children.

Nicholas Keung Immigration Reporter

Anthony Rosario, his wife and three adult children shared a two-bedroom apartment in Scarborough when they first came from Bangladesh in 1998.

At times, they also shared their already crowded dwelling with other families, converting available space into bedrooms.

Space was tight but so was their budget, with their $900-a-month rent eating up half the family’s monthly income.

Up until February, Rosario and his wife, Mary, were still sharing their two-bedroom apartment with his son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren.

“It’s tough to live with so many people in so little space, but you are bound to live like this when you don’t have money,” said Rosario, 61, a bakery chef, who two months ago finally moved into a subsidized seniors’ apartment after four years on the waiting list.

But a new study on immigrant housing warns that thousands of newcomers continue to live in “hidden homelessness” — in shared, overcrowded housing — an issue that has grown more acute, especially in Toronto, where affordable rental units are in short supply.

The national study by Metropolis, an international network of researchers in immigration policy, found most newcomers reported spending more than 50 per cent of income on housing, with 15 per cent spending 75 per cent or more.

“Financial difficulties force many newcomers to share accommodations that are often poor quality, overcrowded and unsafe,” says the report.

The report is based on national housing data and surveys of 600 migrants in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. In Toronto, where the average wage is $69,000, most newcomers surveyed had incomes under $20,000.

“New rooming houses are being created in the suburbs, in locations without rooming house regulations. Often illegal, suburban rooming houses can offer deplorable housing,” the report continued.

Newcomers also face discrimination in the housing market, with refugees, temporary residents, single parents, large families and people who do not speak English or French facing the greatest challenge, said University of British Columbia professor Daniel Hiebert, the study’s lead author. “The housing situation generally improves over time for most immigrants but there’s a fraction of the immigrant population where the challenges remain and persist for a long time,” he said.

In Toronto, the vacancy rate for rental accommodation fell to 2.1 per cent in 2010, well below the 3 to 4 per cent threshold, a decline more “sustained and dramatic” compared with other immigrant gateway cities, the report states. (The city’s vacancy rate in 2011 fell again to 1.4 per cent.)

Since the 2008 global financial meltdown, the report says, construction projects were cancelled and the number of apartment starts fell by almost 50 per cent in the city.

The recent supply of apartments is mostly intended for the condominium market, which has increased from 22.1 per cent of all starts in 1996 to 44.6 per cent in 2010.

Since 2000, the Toronto Housing Databank found that units with rents between $600 and $900 have decreased by 66,069, while those with rents between $901 and $1,500 and over have increased by 48,760.

“With rising rents, the loss of inexpensive rental units, and disproportionate growth in condominiums, the supply of affordable accommodation for newcomers, particularly those with children is limited,” said the study, whose Toronto section was led by York University professor Valerie Preston.

Toronto is home to the largest stock of social housing in Canada, with 127,545 units of rent-geared-to-income housing in which residents pay no more than 30 per cent of total income before taxes on housing. However, almost 90,000 households are on the waiting list, meaning wait times of four to 21 years.

The study calls for a national housing strategy by all levels of government and the redesigning of housing services for newcomers.

Vacancy and average rents in Toronto in 2010

Vacancy rateRent

Studio2.3%$778

1-bedroom2.4%$952

2-bedroom1.9%$1,118

3-bedroom or more1.6%$1,305

Dwelling (unit) starts in Toronto by type:

200820092010

Detached11,3088,1309,936

Semi2,3622,0321,654

Townhouse4,6122,9184,365

Apartments23,93012,86913,240

Precarious Housing & Hidden Homelessness Among Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Immigrants

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U.S. Illegal Immigrant Enforcement Sweep Brings 3,100 Arrests

By Seth Stern - Apr 2, 2012 10:02 PM GMT+0500

U.S. officials, during a six-day sweep, arrested more than 3,100 illegal immigrants who have been convicted of crimes or failed to leave the country after being ordered to do so.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement division announced the results of its third national “Cross Check” operation today in a statement.

“The results of this targeted enforcement operation underscore ICE’s ongoing commitment and focus on the arrest and removal of convicted criminal aliens and those that game our nation’s immigration system,” said John Morton, the agency’s director, in the statement.

Those arrested include 2,834 people with convictions for crimes including murder, drug trafficking and child abuse.

To contact the reporter on this story: Seth Stern in Washington at sstern14@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Steven Komarow at skomarow1@bloomberg.net

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Understanding Family Immigration Visas

By Richard M Gordon

There are many ways to go about obtaining permanent residency status within the U.S. if you are a foreigner. Different visas have been created to make this process possible, and there are many types that can be used to obtain recognition as a lawful United States permanent resident. There are a number of ways in which an illegal resident of the country can gain citizenship and some of the main ones are: work visas, fiancée visas, non-immigrant visas, student visas, and, of course, family visas.

U.S. law allows for illegal residents and non-citizen immigrants to enter into the country upon the condition that they have a visa and have been legally permitted to do so. As a lawful permanent resident of the country, foreigners can use their visas to enter the United States, as well as live in the country permanently and obtain employment. However, there are conditions to obtaining the legal documents that allow this type of lifestyle, and one of the most commonly used ways to enter and live in the U.S. is the family visa, which is not excluded from carrying its own set of terms and conditions. In order to be granted residency, a non-citizen may choose to obtain a family visa if their situation permits for this type of allowance. When this is the case, an immigrant can use their relative's permanent residency and/ or citizenship as a means into the country. To do so requires the citizen or permanent resident currently living in the United States to petition for a visa on behalf of the individual who wishes to enter the country.

Family members can petition on behalf of a brother, sister, parent, wife, husband, and any unmarried children over the age of 21, as well any of their children. Before the visa will be granted, it must be established that the person making the petition is financially stable enough to support the incoming immigrant. This means that the family member will need to prove that they have enough assets and/ or financial means to support an additional person. If this can be established, then the next step in the process will be for the family member to formally accept an additional support. This will be completed by acknowledging the legal responsibility of such an action and then signing written documentation to officiate the face. This documentation is referred to as the Affidavit of Support. Only once all of these steps have been taken can the immigrant who intends to enter the U.S. permanently apply for a visa themselves.

The initial steps of obtaining a family visa are only the beginning of what is a lengthy and rather complex legal process. However, these are usually the most commonly accepted and widely used ways to gain residency in the country, and as such, the chances of successfully obtaining residency in this manner is relatively high. The issuance of a visa is most often done based on predetermined annual quotas, the home country of the petitioner, and the petitioner's relationship to a U.S. family member. Again, this often a complicated process, and it is one that should not be attempted without the guidance of a legal professional that is skilled in immigration law and can help walk you through the process with as much ease as possible.

At Maney and Gordon, an Orlando immigration attorney from the firm can help you navigate your way through the legal system as it pertains to immigration law. The firm opened its doors in 1997, and ever since, it has been skillfully providing legal assistance to immigrants, non-citizens, and permanent residents throughout the state of Florida. When you need steadfast legal representation you can feel confident in turning to the law office of Maney and Gordon. There you will find a team of attorneys that have been named as Super Lawyers and one that has obtained the highest peer review rating possible by the acclaimed Martindale-Hubbell rating system. There is no doubt that this will be a difficult time for you and your family, but there is something that can be done about it and hiring an associate from the Orlando firm should be your first step in the process.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6929125

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Immigration to Canada - What's in It for You?

By Ricardo Colindres

Each day, more and more individuals are seeking greener pastures overseas. This includes immigration to Canada, and as a result, the country's population keeps growing. Recent data has revealed that Canada's population has been growing by close to six percent, and a lot of this is apparently due to immigration. So what does this mean for you? If you are planning to leave your homeland and seek your fortune in Canada, consider the following information.

Nowadays, immigration to Canada takes only about one year to complete. This is a great deal shorter than it used to take in the past, what with all the revamped laws and regulations passed through the years. Over three million skilled migrant visas are offered by the Canadian government each year, which should be very encouraging news to anybody and everybody who wants to give this option a try. You will, however, need to prove your capability to make a decent living overseas to improve your chances of earning such a visa.

There are many options available for those who want to seek employment in Canada. Really, there isn't a "best" or "worst" city or province when it comes to immigration to Canada - this is, after all, a country with generally low rates of unemployment and low rates of crime. Many immigrants from all over the world, including the United States, America and Europe, have built new lives in Canada, and provided you do your homework and successfully complete all your requirements, you just might be one of them.

Requirements for immigration to Canada are quite simple. Of course, you will need a visa, which could be a temporary work visa, permanent work visa or business visa, among others. Being fluent in English is very essential as it is one of two major languages spoken in the country, the other one being French. That said, bilingualism can go a long way, particularly in areas such as Quebec which have a large population of French speakers. Being experienced in your chosen field could also give you an advantage, although most anybody can apply for work following immigration to Canada.

Immigration to Canada is a very viable option for those who want to try their luck in another part of the world and earn a better living for their families. With low unemployment rates and a working environment conducive to success, you can't possibly ask for anything more when it comes to working overseas.

For more information about immigrating to Canada, you may visit Canada Immigration Services.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6962904

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What's Up in Aviation News?

What's up in the world of aviation? Here are some of the latest headlines relevant to small aircraft, executive jet pilots, and FBOs.


FBOs must meet Stage 3 noise standard requirements by 2015. In late February, President Obama signed into law an FAA bill requiring fixed-base operators of business jets operating under Stage 1 and 2 noise standards to meet Stage 3 requirements by December 31, 2015. After that date, jets weighing 75,000 pounds or less operating within the 48 contiguous states are required to comply with Stage 3 noise levels.

There are some exemptions to that rule in the bill, such as the temporary moving of aircraft for modification or sale outside the 48 contiguous states, the modification of an aircraft to meet Stage 3 noise standard requirements or other heavy maintenance, for the scrapping or storage of an aircraft, and for the diversion of the aircraft for certain reasons.

Be aware of temporary flight restrictions this campaign season. Whatever you're political views, if you're a general aviation pilot or FBO, pay close attention to the travel schedules of the President, Vice President and Republican nominee this campaign season. Presidential election seasons increase temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) on general aviation (GA) flights, and the increased restrictions can impact your own flight plans.

The White House and Secret Service, in association with the TSA, are trying to keep official TFRs to a minimum during the 2012 campaign season. They understand that TFRs wreak havoc on business and flight schedules, especially during the week and in major cities. Secret Service also avoid TFRs because they require revealing where the President or other politician is located, and where he or she is going. That is a safety and protection issue they want to keep to a minimum.

If you are a National Business Aviation Association member, you can visit their website and monitor the latest Presidential election-campaign-related temporary flight restrictions.

Savannah Technical College building new aviation tech school. The Savannah Technical College (STC) is building a new Aviation Training Facility at the Crossroad Campus. Scheduled to be completed in 2013, the new facility will be able to train up to 75 more aviation mechanics and technicians yearly. This is good timing, say industry insiders, as the demand for properly-trained technicians is increasing.

FCC cancels LightSquared's broadband signals due to GPS interference. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned LightSquared from carrying its terrestrial LTE network satellite frequency broadband signals on frequencies close to GPS frequencies. Following a year of testing, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) gave the FCC a report stating that LightSquared's satellite frequency bands demonstrated serious and widespread GPS interference - including interference with navigation gear used by planes, boats and cars - that LightSquared's terrestrial broadband signals cannot currently coexist with GPS bands, and that there is no immediate solution to the interference problems.

The FCC's ruling has effectively canceled LightSquared's plans for a $14 billion high-speed wireless system. In an effort to preserve cash, LightSquared is cutting about 149 jobs, about 45 percent of its jobs, while they work to resolve and reverse the FCC's decision. The NTIA said it will work with the FCC and broadband industry to help solve the current interference problems with GPS.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6927675

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5 Tips - How to Become a Pilot

By Peter Ingersson

Being a pilot is a well-respected job in the community, and the pay is generally good as well. Not just anyone can become a pilot, though. There is lots of education involved, the amount of which depends upon whether you want to become a commercial pilot or just want to fly as a hobby. Either way, there are a few tips that will help you get well on your way to flying the friendly skies.

1. Go to College: Most airlines want to hire pilots who have a 4-year college degree, even if you have been to a separate aviation school. Though some will hire without the college degree or only with a 2-year associate's degree, you will often be passed up for a pilot who does have that Bachelor's degree.

2. Join the Military: The cost of a Bachelor's degree is high and only getting higher all the time. When you tack on the cost of aviation or flight school, the price may be out of reach for some individuals. If this is the case for you, an option to become a pilot is to join the military. You don't have to stay in your whole career. You can go to flight school, serve your minimum amount of time (generally 4-8 years) and then leave the military and work for an airline. Instead of paying for your education, you will get paid to acquire your pilot's license.

3. Stay in Shape: To pass the initial tests to become a pilot, you must be in good physical shape. A physical test is part of the licensing requirements. It may be best to get what is called a First Class medical certificate before you start flight school that is issued by a Federal Aviation Administration medical examiner. Getting one in advance ensures you can pass the test before you spend a lot of time and money educating yourself as a pilot.

4. Work on Your Ratings: Even after flight or aviation school, there are ratings that you must acquire to get your license. Instrument ratings are needed to ensure you can read instruments in various types of aircraft. Engine ratings ensure you can fly single and multi-engine planes. Pay attention to the requirements and make sure you log enough flight time to achieve the necessary ratings.

5. Be Patient: There are only so many pilot jobs available at any given time. Many pilots begin their careers in other fields like flight instruction before advancing to pilot. If you don't find a job immediately, work on things like instrument ratings and keep applying until you find your dream job.

Peter knows all about airplanes and is a big fan of the private jets of Piaggio Aero, especially the Piaggio P1XX.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6927412

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How to Have Financial Security While Travelling Abroad

By Justin K Hackett

More times than not credit cards make travelling the world much easier. I know when I travelled throughout North Africa; I always had a credit card as a backup form of payment. There is not a need to deal with travelers cheques, exchange large amounts of money, or wearing that annoying fanny pack, which clearly labels you as a tourist. But the simplicity of credit cards should not be overlooked as consumers can find themselves in a leap of financial trouble.

First, I recommend calling your financial institution and letting them know where/when you will be travelling. If you forget to call your financial institution, there is a high chance the bank will automatically block your card. This usually is an attempt to block any fraudulent transactions. Once the bank has been notified, they can adjust your account and allow you to use your card without any provocation.

Credit cards generally charge a fee, which is known as a foreign transaction fee. These fees generally hover around 3 percent and can add up quite quickly once you factor in all the miscellaneous items you will be purchasing. You may think this fee only applies to purchases made in foreign currency, but in recent times credit card companies are assessing the fee on any international purchase. So even if you are travelling in a country who lists their prices in US dollars, there is a chance you will still be assessed a fee. The best way to avoid these fees is to have a reserve amount of cash on hand, which can be used to for small knick-knack gifts. Save the credit card for big purchases, such as dinners, hotels, or expensive excursions.

It is a prudent idea to have a digital image of your credit card. You could scan a copy to a flash drive, snap a photo on your Smart Phone, or store in a similar fashion on your tablet. This is helpful in the event you lose your card, need to call the bank in a pinch, or are not carrying your credit cards but still want to make payment.

If you are travelling in some European countries, they utilize a smart card or pin encrypted credit card. This card has an extra layer of security, which may contain a microchip or an extra PIN number, which must be entered to complete the transaction. Most European countries do accept US credit cards, but beware there are exceptions especially for automatic vending machines. By vending machine, I do not mean a machine which will disperse chips, but some train kiosks issue tickets via a vending machine. It sure beats going to the window!

Always, always, always carry a back up card! This card should ONLY be used in extreme cases. I highly recommend having this back up card associated with a different bank then the rest of your cards. When I was in Algeria, my two primary cards were cancelled because they were linked with the same bank. I was forced to use my back up card and was very happy that it was associated with a different bank.

Lastly, it is important to diversify your payments by using your different credit cards. In addition you should always have a small amount of reserve cash just in case things go awry with your cards. In case you lose your cards you should make a note of the various toll free numbers, your personal banker, or a service center. This way a card can be quickly cancelled and a replacement card placed in the mail. In the meantime use your cash to get by.

Follow these handy tips for financial security while travelling abroad and you can focus more on enjoying the fun, then what is happening at the banks. Remember, it is a vacation!!

Justin Hackett has extensive travel experience in the Middle East, which includes living and working in North Africa. He has been with Travel Visa Pro for 2 years and prior to that he was a staff assistant to the Cultural Attaché from the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission. He holds a M.A. in Middle East Studies from The George Washington University and speaks several dialects of Arabic at a conversational level. Justin advises clients on Middle Eastern travel, especially clients wishing to travel to Saudi Arabia and coordinates marketing efforts at Travel Visa Pro. Contact him via email at justin@travelvisapro.com or call 202 684 7150.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6963539

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Cheap Island Vacations to the Hawaiian Island of Oahu

By Deborah B Woods

Oahu is known locally as "The Gathering Place", and is the home of around 75% of the total Hawaiian Islands' population. At its widest points, this volcanic island is 44 miles long and 30 miles wide and has 227 miles of shoreline. Oahu is the result of two volcano's Waianae and Koolau, with a wide "valley" called the central Oahu Plain between them. The highest point is Mount Kaala in the Waianae Range at 4,003 feet above sea level.

Waikiki in Honolulu is on the south-east coast and now has several hostel accommodations where you can stay for a very humble payment from $25 per night. Private rooms are available so if you are on your honeymoon you need not be despair or be concerned that you have chosen hostel accommodation!

Hostels are now thankfully losing the poor image they have suffered for many years of scratchy sheets, no sheets, and dark and dismal rooms occupied by pot smoking hippies. That scenario disappeared long ago, and now hostels are bright, cheery, welcoming, comfortable and clean establishments. The huge benefit of choosing a hostel, apart from all the cash you save is that you will meet friendly and down-to-earth people who are more than likely experienced travelers willing to share their knowledge with you, perhaps making lasting friendships. This gives you the best local information from day one of your vacation so that you will not miss out on the best restaurants, attractions, best value shopping and of course the beaches.

If you are travelling solo, hostels are definitely the best option, and not just to save money. Hotels can be very lonely places for single travelers, and the facilities they offer are usually aimed at couples and families. Apart from that, you really get stung on your room charges for solo occupancy. In any hostel you will make friends very quickly, and evenings often have a social gathering arranged for residents.

Oahu offers pristine beaches where you can snorkel as much as you like for the cost of a snorkel kit! The corals and colorful tropical fish will keep you occupied or hours and days on end. Water sports are of course offered, surfing being a very popular sport on the Hawaiian Islands. The Hawaiian climate is glorious, with little difference between seasons.

Hiking and walking are not to be overlooked and this is another free of charge activity. Oahu has an amazing and diverse landscape - Jurassic Park was filmed on the Hawaiian Islands and now you can experience that beauty and diversity without looking over your shoulder for veloceraptors!

Waikiki has many nightclubs and bars to party the night away, giving a total contrast to the peace and tranquility you can also experience on this island. The center of Honolulu is teeming with designer stores, shopping malls and restaurants to satisfy all tastes. Hawaii has a beautiful culture and you should not miss going to a Luau which is a Hawaiian feast, and perhaps a slack key concert where traditional Hawaiian song and music is performed.

Hawaii's number one attraction is the Pearl Harbor Memorial. The first United States battle of World War II in the Pacific was the surprise attack from the Imperial Japanese Navy on Pearl Harbor, Oahu on the morning of December 7th 1941 and was aimed at the Pacific Fleet of the United States Navy and its defending Army Air Corps and Marine Air Forces. 353 Japanese fighters, bombers and torpedo planes were launched in two waves from six aircraft carriers and attacked, damaged or destroyed twelve American warships, 188 aircraft, and killed 2,403 American servicemen and 68 civilians.

At the memorial you watch a film of the attack and see memorabilia in the museum. You can almost hear the aircraft as you look over Oahu bay and imagine what that terrible day must have been like for those people who died and for those who lived to tell of their experience. The memorial is named Arizona after the tragic sinking of the Navy vessel Arizona on which so many perished.

The Arizona memorial is a privilege to visit, and Oahu is a blessing that everyone can now take advantage of with cheap flights readily available and friendly hostel accommodations waiting. These islands used to be an exclusively rich man's paradise, but not any more, Oahu and the Hawaiian Islands is now a paradise available to everyone.

Having worked in the travel industry for several years, the author is now in the process of creating two travel websites dedicated naturally to travel. The websites present opportunities that are available now to more people than ever before to see amazing places and experience more diverse cultures and natural and man-made wonders of the world. http://www.egypt-dreams.com highlights the historical attractions and wonders of Egypt and other ancient civilizations. http://www.forsureamazing.com favors family and budget vacations and adventures, giving practical information, advice, ideas and tips for travel, activities and destinations.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6967585

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The Advantages of Taking the Online Ground School

By Elias B Serrano III

Becoming a pilot is never an easy job for any person. Flying an airplane is not like driving a car or operating any other machine. Flying a plane is basically a lot more complicated and demands more attention. Lost focus for a moment and it could prove to be very fatal. In order for errors and accidents not to occur, one should pretty much master all there is when flying a plane and all the DO's and DON'Ts in emergency piloting. Thus attending an Online Ground School, where one would be extensively trained all the importance and the basics, would prove to be very helpful in the development of becoming a pilot.

No doubt about it, taking the Online Ground School would indeed give you a lot of benefits in your path to becoming an official and licensed pilot. There are also many advantages when taking the internet based ground school. One of them is that it is online. We obviously are living in a time where high-tech machines, hand-held gadgets that can connect to the internet and many more, thus getting online would be very accessible. That advantage alone can let you create space and would enable you to find time for your flight training.

The training would cover up many aspects when it comes to piloting. One is that it would make you communicate well when it comes to using the radio. The giving of information via radio is of grave importance to both the pilot and to the one he is talking to. Relaying data efficiently will enable the other party to comprehend and thus can give you vital information. The correct usage of radio communication will enable you to become a safer pilot. The Online Ground School thus indeed cover all there is when it comes to becoming the best pilot you can be. These essential aspects of aviation must be taken well at heart and should never be forgotten. After learning all there is to know, there is no doubt that one can pass the check ride and gain one's license.

Being a pilot carries huge responsibilities. That is why one should delicately know all there is when it comes to flying a plane. If you want to be a private pilot, where you would have passengers with you, then taking the Online Ground School is essential for you. Take one step at a time with all your heart and you'll become an official pilot in no time.

The author is a seasoned student and writer for Mzeroa.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6957666

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Flying Watercraft Called Wing In Ground

By Sabrina Whetham

Wing in ground vehicles have been around for about 40 years yet very little is known about them. They have not been commercialized yet which is why not many people have heard or even seen it.

They work on the idea that the less in contact you are with a surface, the less friction you have to overcome which leads to greater speed of travel. Most boats work with this concept but these vehicles take it to a whole other level, they totally eliminate contact by floating above the ground or whatever surface they have to run on.

The contact is removed by having high pressure air pass through in between the bottom of the vehicle and the surface. This is what has come to be known as the ground effect. This eliminates a very large amount of friction which allows these vehicles to run faster and with more fuel efficiency.

These vehicles have more or less the same design as air planes although they do not have large motors and rely on the interaction of the air beneath them and the surface. This is why they only fly very close to the ground. They are like hovercrafts but without the fan underneath. They are propelled horizontally at first but eventually less power is needed from the engines since the wind carries the vehicle afterwards.

This design was done to first, make the vehicles run much faster. Secondly these vehicles are made to become more efficient. Most boats will expend a lot of fuel just to overcome friction with the water surface. More or less fifty percent of the losses of boats are due to friction. Eliminating those losses will contribute a very big amount to efficiency.

The concept was discovered by pilots during the early 1920s. They felt that at a certain point during landing that the planes they were piloting almost refused to go any lower. This was the point where aerodynamic ground effect kicked in. It already seemed like they were on the ground even though they were not really on it yet. Studies were done and eventually it was proven that flying close to the water surface was more efficient on fuel since less power was needed.

WIGs nowadays are mostly water based. There are some versions that are amphibious but no proper design has been developed for it yet. It has also been researched that for the designs to be truly efficient the vehicle size would have to increase by a lot. The WIG vehicles nowadays are just small boats that can carry only a very small amount of passengers but to make it the most efficient that it can be it should be able to reach the size of a 747 plane. Weather conditions also affect the WIGs a lot since it basically runs with the wind. A bigger design would also lessen the effect of the weather but no one has actually tried to make one that size to test out the theories.

Wing in ground vehicles are very promising when it comes to technological development. The concept is very good has high expectations although it is still hard to put it in to practice. The potential is great although a lot of funding would be needed to truly test it out.

A relatively new concept in fast transportation is wing in ground vehicles. About four decades of wing in ground aircraft have now been studied and refined. For more information visit Flying Yachts for the flying boat concept.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6971544

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Benefits of Aircraft Management Services

By Melvinc Chris

Are you in search for an Aviation Management Service Provider? Maybe you are an individual or you could be heading up a division of a larger company. At any rate, you need professional assistance for managing your aircraft. There are lots of companies who can handle the entire thing for you, but how do you know whom to choose? Is there anything in the world that can be acquired which can exceed performance expectations without spending a fortune?

A lot of work is needed to own a private plane or Aircraft. You need to keep your aircraft safe and also you must follow the mandate and guidelines of FAA. You can leave all that things in the hands of a reputed Aircraft Management Company. Associated with these there are lots of companies who offer financial services also. Aviation financing is not limited to engine and aircraft purchases, fleet renewals, liquidity needs and etc but can be safely put in the hand of your Aviation Service Company. Thus you must need an Aviation Management Service provider for setting up an airline to hands-on daily operations.

All Aviation Management Companies are not same. Most of them offer basic Aviation Services but there are a no of organizations that go a bit above and beyond the basics. Before deciding which maintenance company to choose, gather all information you can about them. Remember, it is very important to explore all about your aircraft maintenance company before signing any agreements. Please check the following points that should be kept in mind while choosing an Aviation management Company:

Things to Keep in Mind while searching for an Aircraft Management Company.
- Company's existence in the business?
- The types of Services other than the basics the company offers?
- Making a list of the services and options that will be required.
- The qualifications of the staff they employ?
- Status of the organization's safety record?

Many aircraft management services offer:
- Avgas and Jet A fuel
- In-flight catering
- Hangar space (overnight and extended-stay)
- Concierge service
- Aircraft GPU installation

Aircraft itself is a large initial investment and you should protect that investment along with the right aircraft management services. Corporate owned services are always the best option, but a smaller, dependable company is the best bet for flexibility in working with plane owners. First a reputable airplane management company must be chosen to ensure the highest quality aircraft services. Check references from your friends and confirm that the business is both licensed and insured.

Melvinc is an Aviation professional with 10+ years of experience in providing Aviation Services for global clients. Visit his global aviation trade board to find online information about Aviation Management Services.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6933564

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Packing Your Roll Aboard Suitcase for a Plane Trip and Week-Long Stay

By Harriet Hodgson

I've traveled a lot and, during my travels, learned how to pack for plane trips. When I pack, I keep emergencies in mind. Before I start to put things in my suitcase, I make sure the dimensions meet airline specifications. I also make detailed packing list. It is divided into three groups, essentials, clothing and wear (the clothes I will wear on the plane).

To keep my clothes from wrinkling, I roll my underwear and t-shirts. Pantyhose is stuffed into my shoes to keep the topes from getting crushed.

Planes can be chilly so I wear a lightweight sweater en route. Though the fabric is thin, it provides a layer of protection when I need it. I also have an empty water bottle in my purse and fill it just before I board the aircraft. All of my clothes are washable and my travel kit contains safety pins, a tiny mending kit, a stretchy clothesline, a few clothespins, and some plastic zipper-type bags.

Years of travel have taught me three important lessons. One, never bring new shoes. Instead, bring shoes that are broken in and comfortable. Two, don't pack your medications (if you take any) in your suitcase. Instead, bring your medications with you. Three, wear support hose on the plane. Right now I'm planning for two trips, one to Atlanta and one to Boston. To make things easier, I will pack the same clothes for both.

I have purchased a black oversized purse for the trip, one that will hold my Kindle, travel documents, and cell phone. Though I occasionally bring short-sleeved t-shirts, I usually bring long-sleeved ones. Long-sleeves keep me warm when the weather changes and also protect me from the sun. This packing list may help you get organized for a short trip. If you bring detergent with you, or buy it after you have arrived, this list will sustain you for weeks.

Essentials

Travel-size toiletries in hang-up bag
Small hair dryer (Many hotels provide hair dryers, but I'm playing it safe.)
Hat and sunscreen
2 plastic hangers (or 2 wire ones)
Hearing aid batteries (if you use a hearing aid)
Band-aids or moleskin for sore feet
Cloth shopping bag (Mine is foldable.)
Copy of my eyeglasses prescription
Rubber gloves to keep support hose from tearing

Clothing

2 pairs of pantyhose
2 pairs of socks
1 pair of black slacks
1 pair of brown slacks
Lightweight jacket or blazer that goes with everything
Black skirt
3 long-sleeved t-shirts (1 white, 1 black, 1 patterned)
1 multicolored blouse
1 multi-colored scarf
1 inexpensive necklace
1 pair of waking shoes
1 pair of black flats

Wear

Dark jeans
T-shirt
Support hose
Lightweight sweater
Raincoat
Sandals

This checklist has worked for me and I think it will work for you. I toured Europe for three weeks with nothing more than the items on this list packed in a roll aboard suitcase. My suitcase has a side pocket and I used it to store travel books and pamphlets. Packing light will make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Copyright 2012 by Harriet Hodgson

http://www.harriethodgson.com

Harriet Hodgson has been an independent journalist for 35+ years and is the author of 31 books. Six are grief resources, including "Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief," Lois Krahn, MD, co-author, "Writing to Recover: The Journey from Loss and Grief to a New Life," "Writing to Recover Journal," "101 Affirmations to Ease Your Grief Journey," "The Spiritual Woman: Quotes to Refresh and Sustain Your Soul," and "Happy Again! Your New and Meaningful Life After Loss." Please visit Hodgson's website and learn more about this busy author.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6975913

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Warsaw - The Phoenix City

By John Wills Smith

It may not be possible for many to overcome the severe blows they had to suffer in their life. But, the people of Warsaw, the capital city of Poland has proved that they can come out of any situation with their will power and determination. There will not be any other city in the world, which had to suffer so many setbacks and attacks as Warsaw. Almost 80% of the city has been ruined during the Second World War. From all those situations, the city has now become the largest economic center of central Europe and an important tourist destination.

Almost all known airlines are operating flights to Warsaw now. Aiming the tourists belonging to the middle class, many companies are operating cheap flights to Warsaw also. Though, the number of flights to this city is increasing every time, at time there can be great difficulties in getting cheap tickets to Warsaw. So, to avoid more inconveniences, it is always better to buy airline tickets in advance, if you are planning a visit to Warsaw.

Places to See

Lazienki Palace

Lazienki Park and Palace is a breathtakingly beautiful place. One simply relaxes and experiences serenity and peace of this place. On a lake, the palace known as "The Palace on the Isle" is built and one can reach there through foot bridges. Depending upon your mood, one can stroll around the place and enjoy the rich history and culture of the place.

Chopin Monument

In the memory of the famous composer from Poland, Chopin, the Chopin Monument is the place where artists and music lovers gather. At times concerts are also held here. This monument is located in Lazienki Park.

Royal Castle

Reproduction of the original, the Royal Castle in Warsaw is just like the Chopin Monument. And, during World War II, the composer's monument was destroyed by Nazis. Although exterior required lot to be recreated but the interior of the castle is still very much authentic. Lot has been saved from that era like furniture, etc.

Castle Square

Overlooking Royal Castle, Castle Square is located in Warsaw. For speeches, entertainment and gatherings are held at this grand square.

The University of Warsaw showcases the architectural wonders of the traditional Polish. There are several other buildings to add to this list too. Adding more attractions to these beautiful architectural structures, 40% of the total area of the city has been kept green with beautiful plants and trees. Thus the city itself plays an important role in entertaining the tourists. Though the city has been connected by air with almost all major cities in the world, and a good number of flights are being operated from here, the rush will be seen throughout the year, especially on cheap plane to Warsaw.

Wills Smith is an associate editor with Farebuzz.com. The website offers exclusive information related to cheap flights to Warsaw and business class airlines.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6925735

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How to Reserve Airline Tickets Online

By Liss James

Back in the olden times, trips from one country to another could take several days or even weeks. People travel by train, by car or by boat. In some cases, a combination of different modes of transport was unavoidable. Then, airplanes were invented and air travel changed the world of travelling. Although many travellers prefer moving to places with the aid of airplanes, some people believe that air fares are unreasonably high. But there are incontestable advantages of air travel that make it worth its cost. First of all, air travel is the most rapid way of transportation. It will only take few hours on board the plane and land literally at the other side of the world.

The other benefit of air travel is the comfort it provides. Passenger can have meal on board, watch films, get some sleep or just relax. Of course, the services package influences air fares amounts. Customers can choose to pay a bit more and get the first class service and luxury or take economy class tickets and save some money. Moreover, air travel is considered to be rather safe in comparison to other modes of transport where as travellers need to spend longer span of time travelling being exposed to dangers.

How to Reserve Airline Tickets Online

In this modern time, reserving airline tickets online can be done in just a matter of minutes. Most of the airline companies as well as established online travel companies have a booking site where customers can book air tickets any time of the day. There is no need to call the ticketing lines and go through the confusing steps of following the operator's voice directing you to press the appropriate extension number where your queries will be entertained after holding the line for several minutes. Unless you would like to opt for tour packages, it is no longer necessary also to contact travel agencies and pay for additional cost for service fees.

Let us go through the process of reserving airline tickets. First and foremost you need to have a credit card in order to book online tickets. This marvelous piece of plastic will be serves as a verification of your identity which is a process usually required by ticketing companies. To begin with, be sure to have the necessary details such as the date of departure, your destination and the timing of travel that will be most convenient for you.

Start with going through different websites for information about the flights that are directed from your place of departure, to your destination. There will be a number of airlines offering flights at the same time, to the same destination. Some will be expensive promising comfort while others will be offering cheap airline tickets for economy accommodations. You just need to choose one which fits your budget cost wise. Decide whether you want to travel economy class or business class. To start the actual booking process, you will have to first select your flight of choice and enter all the relevant information regarding place of departure, destination, choose flight timing and for some airlines, you can even choose your seat. You also need to indicate if you want to go for a round trip or one way. Be sure to read all the terms and condition so that you'll know the important information regarding cancellation or refund policies. You are near to final steps when you start entering your credit card information, along with contact details. Once the online money transfer is made, you will get a flight booking confirmation mailed to you, along with your ticket.

Tips on How to Get Cheap Airline Tickets

Booking several months ahead of your departure date is one of the best way get cheap air tickets. Some companies offer "early bird promotions", providing a chance for customers to purchase air tickets lesser than its usual cost. The other reason for this is, air fares tend to get more expensive as the departure dates comes closer because of people who are willing to pay any amount just to be able to reach their destination on time. If you are a frequent flier, don't waste the privileges that are available for those who travel frequently. Enrol yourself for the special frequent flier programs that most airlines have so that you will be entitled to the perks and benefits of opting for this program such as being a priority when it comes to reserving airline tickets.

Reserving airline tickets online is just an easy thing to do, however you need to be careful in providing necessary information to avoid unnecessary problems upon boarding. So go on, book your tickets online and have a wonderful trip!

Liss James writes about the perks of travelling, the advantages of air travel and air ticket booking, and other travel tips and guides.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6969029

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Simpler Travel Bookings Are Possible On The Internet

By Ian T Walker

The internet has made many aspects of our lives a lot simpler. And if you are a frequent traveler then you have probably noticed the many ways in which your home computer can make a travel day easier before you ever leave the house. There are so many things accessible online that you may not even know all of the things you can do to expedite your travel day.

For starters you can create all of your reservations online and this can really help because you can very effortlessly either print up all of your confirmation numbers or you can have them sent to your cell phone. Reservations can not only be made with most private charter companies, commercial airlines, car rental agencies, and hotels but they can even be made at locations on the other side of the planet. This even helps you to make reservations in other languages and time zones.

Online is not just limited to the bigger reservations but the smaller ones as well. You can hop on your home computer and plot out your itinerary, e-mail to friends and family and even book tickets to events and pay for them before you travel. This also helps to limit the amount of funds you need to travel with. Even simple reservations such as dinner reservations or airport parking ones can be taken care of with a credit card over the internet.

Interacting with the airlines is simpler online as well. Most airlines will allow you to check in online hours before your flight, check and pay for bags, and print boarding passes ahead of the travel dat. Now there is even an choice at many airports to be prescreened, which enables you to get through security more quickly. All in all there are many ways in which you can expedite your dealings with airline personnel by using your home PC.

Most reservations can also be confirmed online and with the use of your home computer you can even print up important travel documents. Items such as maps of the airports you will be traveling through, the towns and tourist attractions you will be visiting, as well as driving directions that you may need to get you to the airport or from point A to point B. From discount airport parking arrangements to boarding passes your home computer can be key to having a wonderful travel experience. Booking travel arrangements has never been simpler.

Business travels can be simply booked online, even the discount airport parking. When you go to airportparkingassistant.com right now you can see how simple your reservations can be. Airport parking will never be difficult again on your travels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6977791

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How To Book Cheap Air Tickets For Domestic Flights

By Hetansh V Agarwal

There is hardly any shortcut to find cheap air tickets for domestic flights. You need to browse various tours and travel sites to check out the best offers waiting for you. Further you also need to compare the deals offered by these travel portals and go for the one that fits your bill.

These tips mentioned below will surely help you save lots of money on your air tickets:

1. Advance Booking: Domestic flights ticket fares usually rise 21, 14 and 7 days prior to the date of journey. So it is always better to make reservations of your air tickets at least before a month or two. Domestic flights are usually over booked during peak travel time. So last-minute booking may prove to be a costly affair.

2. Booking at the last moment: Sometimes it happens that the flights go half loaded. In such case, domestic airlines provide tickets at low rates. But this may prove to be quite risky. If your journey is important then it is better to skip this way. But if you can afford to take a risk, then you should try this option.

3. Surf the Net: Various tours and travel sites have come up online. It is recommended that you go through each and every site and view their tariffs. Each site has something different to offer. Tariffs differ from dealer to dealer.

4. Think twice before you book: Never be in a hurry to book your air tickets. You never know when the tariffs of domestic flights may come down. You may visit Bing.com. This site offers a prediction chart through which you can get certain idea of the tariffs in the coming days.

5. Frequent Flier Card: Traveling is a hobby to some people. They constantly search for reasons to travel to some or the other place. Such regular travelers can apply for this Frequent Flier Card. This card helps frequent travelers to earn Air-miles. These Air-miles can be accumulated and redeemed in your next Air tickets transaction.

6. Check for regular updates: If you are not in a hurry to book your domestic flights tickets then you may surf the net daily for few days. Everyday some or the other tours and travel portal update new deals on their website. Check if there is any good scheme available. If you find any attractive deal then instantly book your tickets.

You can book a ticket of almost every domestic flight through the internet. By following the above mentioned few simple tips you may easily get your air tickets at affordable cost.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6962420

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Some Great Info About Newark International Airport

By Shiv Ricardo Santiago

One of the busiest airports in the country, Newark Liberty serves as a gateway for passengers from all over the world to the New York area, and is also a major hub for Continental / United Airlines. Travelers using the airport will find that Newark Liberty International Airport services are excellent and regardless of how much time you are spending at the airport, there are plenty of facilities for shopping and eating. Ground transportation links are also good, and parking facilities are convenient, with many parking spaces close to the terminal. In 2011, almost 34 million people flew in and out of the airport.

The airport is located close to the cities of Elizabeth, Jersey City and Staten Island, just off the New Jersey Turnpike, making it accessible by car from most parts of New Jersey and New York. There are short and long term parking areas, as well as restricted mobility spaces and parking spaces can be booked on line. If you are going to or from the airport by train, the airport's AirTrain connects the different terminals, as well as NJ transit and northeast corridor rail lines, allowing easy access to both Manhattan and Philadelphia. Several major car rental companies have outlets at the airport, including Avis, Hertz and National, and NJ transit buses also connect the airport with the surrounding area. There is alaoo a wide range of private buses and airport shuttles, all of which pick up and drop off from dedicated and clearly indicated areas outside each terminal.

Newark Liberty has three terminals, designated as A, B and C, grouped around a central area. All three terminals have plenty of places to eat and drink, ranging from fast food and donuts, to a couple of Irish pubs, a steakhouse and a Wolfgang Puck cafe. There is also a wide choice of retail outlets in each of the three terminals, including a Metropolitan Museum of Art outlet, as well as the usual souvenir, book, toiletries and gadget stores. There is a Traveler's Aid facility in each of the terminals, as well as currency exchange facilities for both arriving and departing passengers. Terminal C is also the location of the airport's interfaith chapel. WiFi service is available throughout the airport, and unlimited use for a 24 hour period costs $12.95.

If you fly frequently, you can take advantage of the trusted traveler program, a strategy that has been designed to speed up the security and immigration processes for trusted and pre-cleared passengers. If you do have to stay overnight in the area, there are plenty of hotels located close to Newark Liberty, including the Marriott which is in the airport itself. The airport has also taken steps to make sure that their facilities are accessible to handicapped travelers, or those needing extra assistance. Each terminal has at least one handicapped accessible restroom, as well as hearing impaired telephones. Specially designed electric carts are also available for disabled passengers, and some car rental companies offer rental cars with hand controls.

Travelling can be fun, but can also be a nightmare if you are not prepared. Learning the ins and outs of the airports you will be using is key to having a great trip.

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