My associates and I travel to many countries.

Over the years we have been impressed by the kindness and efficiency of people who enjoy their work in the travel industry.

I am currently focusing attention on the Northwest of America, as this area is less well known and traveled, (even for East Coast Americans) but has many interesting connections to Britain and especially Scotland from the Pioneer days - mainly through fur trading along the river systems of the Northwest and up into Southern Canada, dominated by the Hudson's Bay Company, based in Vancouver, B.C., Canada.

When researching maps of America, I have found Scottish names being copied and used for places such as: Glasgow, Elgin, Montgomery, Selway, Edmonton and Aberdeen, etc. The list is endless.

Native Americans have acquired many Scottish surnames, as nations mixed and married and are proud of this heritage. In many cases, fur trading acted as the first vanguard in introducing the societies. The terrain along the coast of Washington and Oregon is remarkably similar to Scotland - although each area is distinctly unique and definitely worth further exploration.

This website offers down-to-earth commentaries on air service evaluations, security issues, location reports, lodging conditions, luggage and equipment evaluations and travel tips.

Security assessments are reported as a result of examination with U.S. and British Intelligence Sources, as well as privately contracted security experts.

Readers should note that all of our initial experiences are paid at our own expense. We feel this 'unorthodox' practice of declining discounts adds to our credibility and eliminates bias by favourable review.

In fairness to those who have received less than favourable comment - my associates and I will endeavor to make subsequent re-assessments. Readers should also note that this website will constantly be evolving; according to changing world events and continuing evaluations.

Traveling to new and exotic countries may sound wonderful in the glossy brochures, but check for up to date information on immunisation, disease risks, types of insect repellent, a first-aid kit and appropriate sun protection. Check also for terrorist alerts and visa requirements, as these can change at short notice.

Try to research the country that you visit and learn a few phrases for emergencies.

As experienced travelers, we share our expertise in order to make your journeys safe, convenient and money wise. We are not thrift orientated, but rather, quality conscious.

With best wishes for a safe and enjoyable journey,
S. Niven, editor
Email: nivensnotes@earthlink.net

Here are a few travel tips that I hope you find useful.
Some suggestions may be obvious, while others are there to be explored.

Air Travel
Due to various ongoing security scares, the items you are allowed to carry on board an aircraft keep changing; with liquids and gels still being banned on most UK flights, (although you are allowed to take items you purchase within airport departure areas on board) but allowed in miniature sizes in a see-through bag on American flights, for instance.  
The best thing to do is take as little as possible and pack all toiletries into your hold luggage, keeping essential medicines with you in a see-through plastic bag (and clearly labeled.)  Most large airports do sell toiletries etc, although prices are expensive and shops may only be open at certain hours.

It is unnatural for a body to be pressurized and cramped in stale air for any length of time, so there are certain factors to consider.

Air - on long flights air quality can get a little foul, especially after several hours, so learn to take something scented with you - although you are no longer able to take any liquid/alcoholic or gel sprays on board in many countries for security reasons.

Air pressure - when packing, make sure that bottles of liquid, such as shampoo, are wrapped in an extra bag, as they may expand and leak. Similarly, certain types of batteries and other pressure sensitive items you may be unsure of should be asked about before flying.
If flying for the first time and have never experienced your ears popping at take off and landing, simply use either the action of swallowing, or block your nose and mouth and blow with steadying, but gentle pressure, until your ears pop. (I take chewing gum for take offs and landings; to help with the action of swallowing)
Watch out when opening carbonated drinks on board, as these tend to fizz up at altitude.

Babies/children - babies and children do not know how to pop their ears at take-off and landing, so they will often cry (or scream) until the action of swallowing allows them to release the changing pressure in their ears.
Babies up to a certain age may be provided with a special cot on certain airlines which is attached to the bulkhead. (Wall at front of row seating) Also be aware of the specific lifejackets needed for babies and children and read about using them in the safety brochures provided.

Clothing - wear loose, comfortable clothing, especially for long flights. Shoes should especially be loose fitting and expandable, as feet swell up from air pressure at high altitude.

Diet - it is now recommended that a light (non-fried) diet is easier for the body to digest at high altitude, because of the body's digestive system being inwardly squeezed and the lack of movement, so certain airlines now serve more easily digestible foods appropriate to the length of flight.

Food preferences - If you have any dietary wishes or concerns, be sure to ask for these preferences when first ordering your tickets. Companies need a certain amount of time to have specific meals prepared for each flight.

Hydration - the body becomes more dehydrated than you may realise at high altitudes on long-haul flights, so accept all the water handed out by crew. Avoid dehydrating drinks, such as caffeine-containing coffee, tea, certain soft drinks, (which also contain dehydrating sugar) and alcohol. High altitude can also amplify the effects of alcohol in the body and captains have been known to land, to let off unruly passengers who thought they were still 'under the limit.'

Luggage security - Never pack anything valuable into your checked luggage that you will regret losing - although since the introduction of bar-coded traceable tags stuck around the handle and a copy stuck onto your boarding pass, it is now much easier to find lost luggage.
Put your name, phone number, traveling destination and permanent residence inside and outside all personal and checked luggage, preferably with covered tags - to avoid casual observation of your identity.
Airport security in America may require you to keep your luggage unlocked, incase it needs to be searched, but you may use a TSA approved lock (which security staff can open with their own TSA key) which will leave your combination part of the lock left intact. Ask staff at check-in if you are unsure. TSA approved locks can be purchased in airports, travel shops and online.
Many travelers seem to choose the same black luggage, which may look smart, but is not so easily identifiable when coming around the luggage carousel with hundreds of others. Therefore, choose a different colour, or identify your bags with something colourful, securely attached to the handle.
Check your printed ticket information, advising of any dangerous articles not permitted on board, or ask staff at check-in. Dangerous articles include: Oxidising Substances, Radioactive Material, Explosives, Toxic or Infectious Substances, Gases, Corrosives and Flammable Substances.

Medical needs - most airlines carry bottles of oxygen and first aid kits on board and most staff should be trained in airline related health emergencies. Most airlines will be able to cater to specific medical needs if warned in advance and can provide wheelchair and travel assistance on board and in the airport. Staff can also provide small items such as pain killer tablets.  Liquid or gel medicines are not allowed on most flights unless essential and probably accompanied by a doctor's note.

Movement - many airlines are aware that passengers need to move about on long flights, to prevent blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) from forming and often include instructions on exercises in their in-flight magazines. If you are worried about traveling long distances, consult your doctor, or a travel clinic, about taking a preventative - such as a low-dose aspirin to thin the blood. One can also wear pressure stockings to help prevent blood clots in the legs.

Noise - all aircraft engines are extremely noisy, so use earplugs, or earphones, (such as Bose) which are specifically designed to reduce surrounding noise.

Overbooking - some airlines overbook flights to save money on passengers who don't show up, which means they will look hard at the passengers most in need of an onward flight. Therefore, dress as smartly and cleanly as possible in order to be kept on the flight.

Personal security - Dress conservatively and never wear expensive looking jewelry, to avoid being a target for theft. Both a flashy wardrobe and one that is too casual can mark you as a tourist.
Always travel light - you can move more quickly if needed and will have less to watch out for.
Carry the minimum amount of valuables and always conceal them. Passports, cash and credit cards are safest kept in inside pockets, or in a slim pouch or money belt hidden under clothing.

Seating - an aisle seat gives you easier access to get out of the seat, but you may also be hit by passing trolleys, bags and fellow passengers, who will also want to get out of their seat when you start to fall asleep. Window seats are great if you enjoy watching the clouds and stars, but may be colder at night when the outer air temperature gets to minus 60C and also from the ventilation system. (Take sunglasses for day time flying, as some smaller aircraft don't have blinds) Seats next to emergency exits are usually only given out at check-in, as airlines will choose the fittest persons to open the exits and move out quickly in an emergency.

Turbulence - this can be caused by certain weather conditions and can cause aircraft to feel like a roller coaster. While this may be alarming to first time flyers, it is actually fairly common and one should not be overly disconcerted, as aircraft are designed to cope with natural variations of air pressure and wind.

Helicopters
In helicopters, it is routine to go upwards or downwards - while at the same time - banking to either side. Therefore, take motion sickness preventatives and face forward if possible.
For communication within helicopters - because passengers are competing with downward rotor noises and jet turbines - ear cups are preferred when speaking with fellow travelers.

Sea Travel

Cruise ships  - It seems to be more common these days to hear about a whole ship suffering from gastric illnesses when they are not cleaned properly, so research on the internet before you book for a well-rated and trusted company.   There is also the common factor that a large number of people kept in a relatively confined area, such as ships, for any length of time will contract some form of easily spreadable illness.
Another issue to take note of is modern piracy - often near third world countries, (such as the Straits of Malacca in Indonesia, or between Somalia and Yemen) where they are often armed with surprisingly serious artillery, may attack at night and may even take hostages for ransom.  Check with maritime authorities online for up to date news and information on piracy 'hot spots'.

Hovercraft
While certainly speedy in fair weather, the disadvantage would be the motion sickness brought on in heavier seas.

Airports

Animal Transport - be aware that airlines may not allow animals to be transported if the weather is either too hot or too cold, (as they may be exposed on the tarmac for a while, albeit in their portable 'live animal' boxes.) Ask or check online about questions to your individual carrier.

Bomb scares - airports occasionally sound automated messages, asking everyone to stay where they are, or be evacuated. If this happens, stand away from windows, people, luggage and garbage bins as much as possible and preferably near a supporting wall, or pillar.

Prices - food at airports is usually expensive, so bring your own food - although you may not be allowed to take food or drink beyond the security checkpoints in many airports (Also, be aware that bringing fruit into fruit growing areas such as California and Florida is considered a serious offence)

Security - screening at security areas, (especially in America) will usually ask you to remove your shoes to be x-rayed, therefore, wear easily removable shoes (and nice socks...)
Also, single women have been known to be questioned intensively by immigration officers in certain countries and airports - so if you have nothing to hide, make sure the door is left open and shout for help, or ask for a woman and/or lawyer to be present if you are being mistreated in any way.
I recently had an experience in Seattle, despite having the appropriate visa documents, etc., where an immigration officer questioned me for at least 20 minutes and made me search my own luggage while the officer dramatically pulled on his examination gloves and stood over me, smirking - and no-one else was in the small room, but a table, with a prominently placed bottle of hand cream. After which I was still allowed to go - but I missed my onward flight and felt extremely disappointed at this overly dramatic treatment.
When I described this incident to a professional law enforcement person, aside from being shocked, it was stated that "such treatment of women would be grounds for dismissal"
Certain airports have reputations for their security being lax.
For example - An artwork package in Seattle airport was recently secreted into an unusual place by a so-called 'security' person and only recovered due to the insistent result of the vigilant owner's own background in security.
If you are transporting valuable items, have them insured and try to track/stay with them as much as possible.

Hotels/Accommodations

Security - no hotel can be totally secure as far as I am concerned, so if you have to leave any belongings in the room, leave the TV and lights on, close the curtains and place the 'do not disturb' sign on the door handle.

Fire - familiarize yourself as much as possible where the nearest stairwells are, but do not use elevators as fire exits - elevator shafts draft smoke just like a chimney stack.

Accessory Recommendations

Baggage
Priorities dictate type.

I prefer the well made, highly durable Eagle Creek line - which break down from one to three bags - carry on, backpack, or ergonomically designed (even for tall people) roller.

My other faithful luggage includes the E-Motion 360, by Victorinox - from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, which also converts from a backpack to another ergonomically designed handle and well heeled rollers.

If you need rip-proof luggage - try out Kirkland Signature's (Costco) Original Ballistic range, by Dupont, which is extremely sturdy but full of nifty pockets and a complete section for items that need special folding, complete with detachable hangers. Completely bashproof.

L.L. Bean also carry an excellent range of well designed and travel tested luggage, which also look great, including rip-proof ballistic material on one range of bags.

Shoes
Ecco - I thoroughly recommend Ecco shoes and sandals for excellent tried and tested durability, smartness and all out comfort.

Clothing
Army/Navy Surplus - these stores in America often have decent prices on staple items such as Merino wool socks, hats and desert (summer) boots, along with good camping gear.

L.L. Bean - I have been using many items from L.L. Bean over the years and find the wrinkle-free Oxford shirts excellent on all round durability and ease of wash care. L.L. Bean also include a range of sensible mosquito repellant clothing. All items from this company are of good quality and last well.

Rohan - one of the best designed and equipped lines of traveler's clothes, especially for men. Even seams are placed with consideration to becoming pressure points. Their garment security pockets are above comparison.