Who would have imagined even five years ago that an airline ticket would become just an airline ticket? Back in the good ol' days purchasing an airline ticket meant getting the seat of your choice, a couple of checked bags, and a meal or hearty snack--all bundled together in one price.

Today's travel is witness to the "unbundling" of the ticket purchase. In many cases, preferential seats are a cost item, as are checked luggage and most certainly, you are on your own for meals. With the recent announcement that Spirit Airlines will charge for overhead space in the cabin, we have reached a new level of added fees.

If the rate structure of current fares were not complicated enough with taxes, fees, and surcharges, now there are the additional items to consider when comparing ticket costs between airlines. Be aware that a $50 difference in fare can easily be eaten up and exceeded by the time you add on a round-trip checked bag, carry-on charges, meals, or in some cases, an aisle seat.

Consider carefully and use a knowledgeable travel consultant to navigate this mine field of "more money." MTS TRAVEL consultants are just that; careful and knowledgeable and in tune with what is going on in this new travel atmosphere of "unbundling." Contact us today by email, service@mtstravel.com; or phone 877-908-8899.

You'll be glad you did!

• Continental Airlines said it will begin charging economy passengers for onboard meals this fall on most domestic and Canada routes and many Latin America flights. The airline said it will continue to offer complimentary food in economy on intercontinental routes and on long-haul domestic flights over six hours.
• US Airways is adding service to Canada and Mexico this summer from its hubs in Philadelphia and Charlotte
• Amtrak has launched Internet service aboard 20 high-speed Acela Express trains. The service is available to passengers in business and first classes. Internet service is also available in six major stations along the Northeast Corridor (Washington, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston, New York and Providence, R.I.) and in all four ClubAcela lounges (Washington, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston).
• The large U.S. airlines are stepping up their efforts to cater to a broadening base of smartphone-toting travelers. American and United last month both increased the number of U.S. airports where passengers can pass through security and board their flights using boarding-pass barcodes on their mobile devices.
• American Airlines passengers traveling internationally can now use online check-in. Customers using AA.com can check in two to 24 hours before international departures.

Egypt's ancient name is Kemet, which translates to the "Black Land" referring to the fertile Nile valley. Egypt is one of the most populous countries in Africa and the Middle East. A passport and visa are required for travel to Egypt. Tourists can obtain a renewable thirty-day tourist visa on arrival at an Egyptian airport for a $15 fee, payable in U.S. dollars.

Hepatitis A & B vaccinations are highly recommended for all international travel. Cholera is prevalent in this area.Peal it, boil it or forget it. Use proper water purification devices.

Islam is practiced by the majority of Egyptians and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Friday is the Muslim holy day, and nearly all businesses are closed.

Need more information on health requirements or Egyptian culture? Any other country? Visit www.passporthealthusa.com.

European culinary experiences from $22! From a gourmet walk in Barcelona to pasta making in Florence; and certainly don't miss chocolate in Belgium! Add one of these unique adventures to your next European vacation.

Whether you stay close to home or jet off to some far-flung remote isle this summer, your options are endless. River cruise in Europe, soak up the Bermudian sunshine, explore Cape Town -- the choice is yours. Specials include attractive cruise rates, free hotel nights, and more. Call today for the best available rates, exclusive amenities and, as always, personalized service to plan your next getaway.

Call 866-280-2363; or email vacations@mtstravel.com. You're as good as on your way!