There are always two sides to every story, and the TSA has graciously allowed 1-800-FlyEurope to get their position on some of the looming criticisms against the agency.

As of late, new TSA horror stories seem to be making media headlines on a weekly basis. With all of the bad PR buzzing around the internet, TV, and newspapers, you may be a bit apprehensive about what to expect when it comes time for you to pass through the security checkpoint for your upcoming flights to Europe. Ann Davis, TSA Public Affairs, kindly spent some time speaking to 1-800-FlyEurope about some of the hot topics that have gone viral in the U.S. media as of late. We hope that the following interview will help to shed some light on TSA’s present struggles and give you a better understanding of passenger rights.

What is the TSA (Transportation Security Administration)?

The US instituted the TSA after the events of September 11, 2001 shocked the nation. Initially it was a component of the Department of Transportation, but in 2003, the federal agency became part of the Department of Homeland Security. The TSA has authority over pretty much everything related to public transportation, such as aviation, ports, rail, highway and even pipelines (although I imagine travel through US sewer systems may not be ideal). The main focus of the TSA is to keep the traveling public safe.

What are the most common reasons people are delayed at the security check point?

Travelers a generally held up at the gate because they aren’t familiar with the current screening standards and/or items that are not permitted in carry-on luggage. It is also vital to allow yourself enough time to park and board your flight. Be aware of peak and off-peak hours. In preparation for a trip, visit TSA’s website, call the TSA Cares hotline for those traveling with disabilities or medical conditions at 1-855-787-2227, or the TSA contact center at 1-866-289-9673 for questions about ID, screening, firearms, security and more.

What is the number one conflict that TSA agents are confronted with on a daily basis?

Our agents are frequently questioned about the necessities of our policies. In the same breath Ann gives me a staggering statistic for the number of fire arms that were confiscated at airport security checkpoints in the US last year. In 2011 TSA agents prohibited the transport of 1200 firearms from being taken inside the plane’s cabin via carry-on bags.

What should someone do if they feel they are being treated improperly? All the stories that I have read seem to portray an unhappy passenger who has video taped their TSA conflict and upon arriving at their destination, they then post it publicly on Youtube for the entire world to see. There must be something that someone can do to try and resolve an issue at the security check point?

Every security check point has a supervisor on staff, called Screening Managers. If you feel that your questions and/or concerns aren’t being answered, request to speak with the Screening Manager.

What is the TSA’s stance on their security agents being perceived as aggressive and lacking compassion?

The TSA trains their officers to treat passengers with respect and with professionalism. The job is a very tough job, and in the recent months the TSA has been moving away from treating travelers as if one size fits all. Specifically, screening techniques have been modified for children under the age of 12 years old and those over the age of 75 years old. There are even 14 airport locations throughout the US that have initiated an expedited screening process for frequent travelers; this isn’t a free ride through the check point by any means, as random security checks are still performed.

More Tips and Resources to Review before your next Flight:

Carry-on Items

photo courtesy of TSA

• You need to be aware of what you can and can not take into the plane’s cabin. Certain items may be permitted, but only as checked baggage. For example: knives and liquids over 3.4 ounces. If you try to pack a prohibited object in your carry-on bag, it is going to hold you and everyone else up in line.
• Make sure that you are familiar with the 3-1-1 guidelines for carry-on liquids and gels.
• When packing your carry-on, layer you items neatly. This enables the TSA to scan your luggage more quickly and easily. If everything is bunched into your bag in a heap of clutter, the X-ray device won’t give security a good image of the contents, and you will likely be pulled to the side so that your things can be sorted through manually.
• If you are traveling with gifts, don’t wrap them, or put the item(s) in a gift bag.
• It is best to carry-on larger electronic devices, because these need to be individually examined by TSA agents (they are too dense to be scanned through luggage). Keeping this in mind, pack laptops and game consoles so that they are easily accessible able to scan through the X-ray machine separately.

How to Breeze through the TSA Security Checkpoint

• Have your boarding pass and an acceptable ID ready to hand over to security.
• Wear slip on shoes. Don’t forget to put on socks, or else your toes are on parade for everyone else to see.
• Skip belts with metal buckles and empty the coinage from your pockets.
• If traveling with children, educate yourself on TSA’s modified screenings. Let your little ones know what to expect, and if they are particularly young, consider running a mock security check with them.
• Does the idea of going through the AIT (Advanced Imaging Technology) creep you out a little? There have been many updates to the imaging software the AIT uses, and TSA screeners now only see an ambiguous figure on their monitors. However, you may opt out of this method for another type of security procedure, which will most likely involve a pat down and metal detector wands.

If you have any doubt about the TSA screening process, contact their customer service department well in advance to your travels. Don’t let a misunderstanding or conflict put a hindrance on your travel plans.

Throughout the world, every urban setting has its own distinct cityscape, recognizable by the unique negative space in between high rises and the sky, almost comparable to the identifying characteristics of a human finger print, except that skylines are in a continuous state of change. Each panorama has prominent features; the structures that make up these vistas are of various contrasting heights and shapes. Some cities boast architectural pieces that not only stand out from the skyline but also have become symbolic to their local community and government. Below are five intriguing skyscrapers that can be found throughout Europe.

Linköping, Sweden | Plantagon’s Vertical Farming

Many of us buy our produce at the local grocery store without giving much thought as to how much mileage your cantaloupe has racked up before it reaches the cart. Beyond this, you may wonder which chemicals your fruit may have been exposed to before you take the first bite. One city in Sweden has taken it upon them selves to try and solve these dilemmas and plan for the future. The ground breaking ceremony to begin construction of an immense greenhouse skyscraper was this past February. Plantagon’s philosophy to why they are creating the vertical farming dome is pretty straight forward; they want to harvest organic crops for their community and to do so in the most eco-sustainable manner. The planning and technology behind the plantscraper is much more complex. The legumes will rotate and spiral throughout the glasshouse using a system that involves double helix ramps.

Prague, The Czech Republic | Dancing House

Nestled in amongst predominantly Baroque architecture is Prague’s beloved Dancing House. The project was designed by Canadian architect Frank Gehry. Initially, the new structure was not well received by the city and even considered a bit controversial. When looking at the towers, you get the sense that there is an underlying grace between these two buildings, and this is because they are supposed to be representative of the famous dancers, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Prague has grown to embrace its unique Dancing House, and there has been a gold coin fabricated by the Czech’s mint to commemorate the seemingly swaying structures.

London, England | 30 St Mary Axe “The Gherkin”

After the original building was damaged beyond repair in 1992, London knew that they wanted to rebuild something special in its place. Affectionately called “the Gherkin,” the city certainly obtained a one of a kind landmark upon finalization of construction in 2003. It stands 40 floors tall at 591 feet, and resembles, well, a pickle.

Malmö, Sweden | Turning Torso

At a soaring 54 stories and 623 feet high, the Turning Torso is Scandinavia’s tallest building. These statistics are impressive alone, but it is the spiring of the building’s frame that is its most awe-inspiring feature. The residential high rise was designed by Santiago Caltrava, of Spain, who was inspired by a sculpture of the human form. Specifically, the natural curvature of the spine when twisted 90 degrees is what Caltrava took and applied to the tower. Completed in 2005, the Turning Torso has since become a symbol of Malmö and is listed as one of Sweden’s 7 wonders.

photo courtesy of Resident on Earth

Wolfsburg, Germany | Autostadt CarTowers

At first glance, the two glass towers situated on Volkswagen’s Autostadt (Car City) site may not seem too out of the ordinary. However, it’s what’s inside each 20 story edifice that attracts a lot of attention from VW fans. Autostadt is an ultra-modern theme park and center where customers may pick up their brand new vehicle (it isn’t mandatory). This is where it gets interesting, inside each CarTower are 400 individual spaces dedicated to housing the autos until they are ready to be shipped to a dealership or picked up by a client. If you so desire, you may take the tour of the cylindrical high rise garage to receive your new, 4 wheeled purchase. Watch it get plucked from its holding space, lowered, and delivered to you, its first owner.

Before you set out on your next flights to London or Prague, do a little research on the destination(s) you’ll be visiting. This way you can be familiar with its layout and skyline before you arrive. It certainly will make the landing experience more significant, too, as you may be able to identify some of the major landmarks from the sky.

photo courtesy of Plantagon | Plantagon Greenhouse Building B1 View 1 (Type for Linköping, Sweden)

photo courtesy of Adare Manor

The wedding invitations have been sent, and now, you and your fiancé are likely considering making a registry or two to help guide your guests with gift giving ideas. Presents are nice and all, but do you really need a new blender? The adventurista in me says “bring on the honeymoon!” If your friends and family are so thoughtfully inclined to present you both with something special to celebrate the occasion (Maybe I’m a bit unconventional, but I feel that gifts aren’t necessary. Just the presence of friends and family at the wedding ceremony suit me just fine.), why not consider a honeymoon fund? Let your parents know (or whoever is in charge of this department) so that they can help you run with this idea. Below I have listed five, très romantique places to mull over as divine options for the ultimate, once in a lifetime getaway.

photo courtesy of Château Eza

Château Eza | Cote d’Azur, France

Perched high upon a bluff in the charming town of Èze, rests the 400 year old Château Eza. Once prominently known as “The Prince of Sweden’s Castle,” the estate was fashioned into a five-star luxury hotel in 1994. Each uniquely designed room boasts breathtaking vistas of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below. There is a Michelin-starred restaurant on the grounds, so you don’t have to leave the comfort of this château in order to savor an 8 course meal spotlighting French cuisine.

Hotel Particulier | Paris, France

Amongst the chic buildings lining the narrow cobblestone streets of the Monmartre hill community, is the posh Hotel Particulier. This exquisite mansion is located in a part of Paris that used to be the stomping grounds of esteemed, bohemian artists, such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Salvador Dalí, and many more. Keeping true to the essence of Monmartre’s distinct, creative flare, Hotel Particulier executes a flawless fusion of traditional French design elements and modern décor. From the wallpaper to the fabrics, each lavish aspect of every room has been meticulously chosen by interior decorator extraordinaire, Morgane Rousseau.

Hotel Cipriani | Venice, Italy

On Giudecca Island, looking out over the lagoon to Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco, and the entrance to the Grand Canal, is Hotel Cipriani. All of Venice’s wondrous attractions will be right at your fingertips when you stay at the exclusive Hotel Cipriani. The suites present guests with grand adornments, such as Murano Glass and antique Venetian furniture. Have the concierge arrange a gondola voyage, complete with champagne, and let the gondolier glide you lovebirds along the enchanting canals.

photo courtesy of Castello Banfi

Castello Banfi il Borgo | Tuscany, Italy

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Italian countryside lies the acclaimed Castello Banfi il Borgo. The quaint town of Montalcino is fringed by vineyards and olive groves. Just 40 km south of Siena, this picturesque destination will place you right in the heart of Tuscany. You will stay in one of fourteen tastefully tailored rooms, each offering tranquil details like: light and airy quarters, terracotta tiled floors, exposed brick arches, and understated, rich fabrics. Set off on a scenic bike journey through the estate’s vineyards; bask in the warmth of the Tuscan sun, and savor the intimate outing centered on you and your love. As this is Italy’s wine country, be sure to tour the onsite winery and cellars. Swirl the highly regarded Brunello di Montalcino, breathe in its divine bouquet, and taste the very spirit of Tuscany.

photo courtesy of Adare Manor

Adare Manor | Adare, Ireland

Set in “Ireland’s prettiest village”, the Adare Manor was constructed for the royal Dunraven family in the 1860’s. It was sold in the 1980’s to Tom and Judy Kane, who lovingly restored the estate to its former grandeur. Reserve one of the Dunraven Staterooms and dive into pure luxury. Each of these suites welcomes guests with pure opulence; four poster beds, hand-carved marble fireplaces and claw foot tubs are just a few of the well-appointed details that newlyweds should anticipate. The 840 acre property provides the picture perfect locale to stroll hand in hand through its French Formal Gardens or choose a secluded spot, under an apple tree, for an afternoon picnic. The Adare Manor leaves no detail undone, and both of you will surely cherish the memories made here for years to come.

You are embarking on one of the most sentimental (if not the single most) event of your lives, and this is one of those occasions where it is perfectly acceptable to splurge on momentous essentials. Let us handle your flights to Paris or Venice; the money you save with our great airfare rates can be used towards honeymoon excursions and romance packages.

photo courtesy of Château Eza

History of Baklava

In the states, we commonly associate Baklava with having originated from Greece. Although the Greeks did play an important roll in the forming of the sticky sweet, nut-filled treat that we all love and know today, it is believed that it emerged from Turkic routes.  The pastry dates back to the 8th century BC., and depending on whom you ask, you will likely get people from each respective country (particularly those from Eastern Europe and the Middle East) laying claim to its heritage. Circa 3rd century BC, Greek mariners brought Baklava to Athens from their travels, and the flakey baked good was a hit. It was at this point in history that an important modification was applied to the dough. The Athenians created phyllo dough by taking the original crust recipe and rolling it into paper thin sheets. Make your own syrupy layered treats that are chock full of  nutty goodness by preparing the following recipe.

Yield: 2 dozen

Prep time: 60 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

You will need: a 9×13 inch pan

Ingredients:

• 16 ounce package phyllo dough (make sure it is completely thawed before using, otherwise the sheets crumble)
• 1 cup butter (melted)

Filling:

• 1 pound chopped nuts (walnuts & almonds)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• (or 1 teaspoon vanilla in place of the lemon and orange)
• 1/2 cup honey

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees  Fahrenheit.

2. I used walnuts and almonds, but you may use just walnuts, too. Or, try substituting hazelnuts for the almonds. Use a food processor to chop the nuts into smaller pieces. Mix in the cinnamon and cloves.

3. Butter the bottom and edges of the pan. Lay out 2 sheets of phyllo dough across the bottom of the pan and brush the surface with butter. Repeat this step 3 more times. You want the bottom of the pastry to be 8 sheets thick. (Tip: to avoid the phyllo dough from drying out while preparing the Baklava, drape a damp piece of paper towel or cloth over the unused pieces)

4. Butter the 8th layer and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of the nut mixture evenly over it. Repeat this step (using the 2 sheets of dough for each layer) until you have 8 pieces of phyllo left (these will be used for the pastry’s top).

5. Follow the instructions to step 3 again for the final layers.

6. With a sharp knife, cut the Baklava into squares (or diamond shaped pieces, if you’re more daring) before placing the pan in the oven.

7. Bake for about 30 minutes until the top is light golden brown.

8. While the Baklava is in the oven, prepare the syrup. Mix the sugar and water together. Bring to a boil.

9. Reduce the heat to medium low. Add the honey, lemon juice, and orange zest (or use vanilla in place of the lemon and orange, if you’d like). Simmer for about 20 minutes and stir occasionally. You aren’t trying to achieve soft-ball stage, you’re cooking off the water used to dissolve the sugar.

10. Allow both the Baklava and the syrup to cool, and then pour the sauce over the Baklava. (It’s best to let the syrup soak into the pastry before serving. So either make it a day before you plan on sharing, or give it a couple hours to meld.)

11. Baklava will keep for about a week, but be sure to loosely cover the top of the pan with aluminum foil. Otherwise if the container is sealed too well, the pastry will get soggy.

This particular recipe combines ingredients that are more commonly used in Greece, these being the cloves, cinnamon and citrus. There are many variations of Baklava, but they all keep with some basic guidelines by consisting of nuts, phyllo dough and a sweet syrup. Once, only the wealthy could afford to indulge in such luxuries as Baklava, and it was something to be savored during special occasions. Historically, sugar, spices, and nuts were lavish ingredients, and by today’s standards it could be compared to purchasing a sweet plated in 24 karat gold. Short of booking airfare to Athens in order to satisfy your craving for some genuine Baklava, this recipe just may be the next best thing.

Are you on the fence about whether you should or shouldn’t purchase travel insurance? One approach in gauging if you should buy the additional coverage is to think about the sum of money you are putting towards your travel plans, and decide how you would feel if you lost this entire investment. Life is unpredictable. There are quite a number of things that potentially could put a major damper on your vacation, and these circumstances are all likely to be beyond your control. There are three primary areas of coverage that travel insurance generally provides.

Travel Protection

If your trip is delayed, interrupted or canceled, this safeguard has your back. Say you or someone who is traveling with you gets sick and you need to reschedule the flights. Without travel protection, this could cost you about $300-$600 per person. The weather can be another unreliable factor in your otherwise meticulously planned getaway. Perhaps uncommon, but tornadoes, blizzards, hurricanes and many other natural setbacks can and do occur.

Medical Protection

You may be thinking “I have health insurance, so I don’t have to worry about this.” Most U.S. policies do not include benefits for international travel. Should you need medical care while abroad, whether or not you are covered is the last thing you want to worry about.

Baggage Protection

After watching the baggage carousel make its 20th rotation without a sighting of your much anticipated suitcase or worse, one by one you spot your mangled personal items (on full display for everyone to see) make their way towards you on the conveyer belt, panic sets in. First, take a deep breath, and then feel rest assured that you will be compensated for luggage delays over 24hrs, damaged articles, or suitcases that seemingly disappear off the face of the earth (in the U.S., they end up at the Unclaimed Baggage Center in Alabama). However, if you don’t have this protection, the airline may recoup some of your loss, but the claims could take up to 6 months to process and restitution is based on the depreciated value of your belongings.

Peace of Mind

There are so many reasons to look forward to your future travel plans, and these should be your primary focus. Once you have the appropriate coverage for you trip, there is no need to dwell on all the what ifs. Do be sure to read through the entire protection plan so that you are familiar with what is covered and what is not. When the time arrives for you to reserve your cheap flights to Europe, ask your 1-800-Fly-Europe reservation agent to add the travel insurance to your purchase.

About Seville Spain

In the south of Spain, the vibrant city of Seville sprawls across both banks of the River Guadalquiver. It is the heart and the capital of the Andalucia (or Andalusia, in English) Region. Seville has a 3000 year old history, and the alluring, ever present customs and culture recognized today that embody deep seeded Moorish and Castillian routes.

History of (Feria de abril) Spring Fair in Seville

The first Feria celebrations were held at Prado de San Sebastian, which is not too far from the exquisite Maria Luisa Park. In 1847, it began as a three day event showcasing local farmers’ cattle. There were only three casetas (tents) set up, and these were provided for the city officials and noble attendees. By the 1920’s, Feria had transformed into the grand spectacle that is observed today.

Feria 2012

Seville’s Spring Fair is now held on the other side of the River Guadalquiver, in a district known as Barrio de los Remedios. Upon the arrival of Feria, the entire city shuts down so that everyone can partake in the six days of festivities. The event takes place each year in the third week after Easter and following Semana Santa (Holy Week). Today you will find over 1000 casetas lined up throughout the fairgrounds, and many are private (belonging to families and businesses). If you are fortunate enough to receive an invite to one of the private casetas, don’t let the rare opportunity pass you by. Don’t worry if you don’t receive an exclusive invitation from anyone because there are 7 public tents set up. Each day processions are lead by horses, carriages, and Sevillanos (residents of Seville) dressed in traditional traje de gitana (gypsy attire). They are en route to one of the bull fights that are held daily at the Plaza de Toros. As if there wasn’t enough going on during Feria, children and adults alike can enjoy carnival rides that run morning to evening; these are located in an area adjacent to the casetas, which is referred to as La Calle del Infierno (Hell’s Road).

Casetas, After the Sun Sets

Things really begin to liven up in the casetas in the evenings. The grand, arched portada (entrance) to the fair grounds is lit with over 20,000 individual bulbs, and suspended over the sandy walkways between the tents; lighting the way are thousands of glowing paper lanterns. Manzanilla (Jerez sherry) flows freely from the individual bars situated within the tents and tapas (small portioned meals, like appetizers) are also served. Women wear brightly colored, bold patterned Flamenco dresses and in contrast to the kaleidoscope of rufflels swathed ensembles, the men sport more muted tones with their trajes cortos (suits consisting of short jackets, riding pants, boots, and wide brimmed hats, similar to what the cattle farmers would have worn in the 1800s). The sound of live folk music strums through each caseta, and it is accompanied by Sevillanas (traditional dance) until the early morning hours.

Do you know that Sevillanas is not Flamenco?

Although there are similarities between the two dance genres, do be aware of their differences. Sevillanas actually originated from Castile and not Seville, as one might easily assume. Flamenco is generally performed without a dance partner. Sevillanas necessitates the presence of two people, and the motions are precise, whereas Flamenco is a dancer’s free expression, comprised of improvised steps.

¡Viva la Feria!

To experience Feria in Seville is an experience that gives a glimpse into the very soul of authentic, southern Spain. If possible, it is best to learn some of the basic movements of Sevillanas before hitting the casetas, and there are plenty of beginner dance classes that are offered throughout the Andalucia Region. If you would really like to look the part, Flamenco dresses are sold at many of the larger clothing stores in Spain. You will want to book airfare to Seville well in advance because Feria is one of the city’s largest festivities of the year.