It's that time of year

My younger son Allen Arvin left for Tokyo last Tuesday morning, with wife Jennifer, their children (Noah-2 years & Sabrina-8 months) and nanny Jenny. Since he was using his earned air miles from Philippine Airlines, I asked how fast was it getting their none-revenue tickets. He said that it was a breeze. What is important is that passenger is open to any date available. It's like a regular ticket purchase. He even mentioned certain beneficial options one can take to maximize the miles available. Discuss this with your friendly PAL service provider.

It will still be warm in Tokyo when they get there. And the PAL flight to Tokyo now departs from Cebu, making it quite convenient for those traveling with infants. Or those who dread arriv-ing at NAIA in Manila.

Second, it is better to use your miles for expensive short-haul destinations, like Japan or Australia, as this will not eat up your earned miles more than, say, using your miles for San Francisco or Vancouver.

August - October is that slice of the year when regular travelers hit the airports of the world. Our board of the Arts Council cancelled the monthly meetings as most of the trustees are abroad, including our president Petite Garcia. Am one of those who chair a big event, so no traveling for me until after play dates.

It's a great time to be in Europe, when autumn is setting in. Cool and colorful! And despite what they say about human rights for the gypsies, Europe's top destinations are well rid of these thieves and petty criminals who are every European tourist's nightmares. Hopefully, travelers in Paris or Rome or Madrid will no longer be holding on to their hand bags or their purchases for dear life.

There are many good offers now for air travel and, I am told, discounts are offered in ferry, bus and rail passes. It's that time of the year, I tell you! I too would like to travel in the fall, when leaves are turning then carpeting the grounds in fiery hues. There is never quite like it and it can take your breath away…no matter how many times you have seen it in the past.

Renting a car may have its hassles, like border crossings, freeway tolls and parking fees. Better to take the train (faster) or the bus. Terminals are at city centers so arrivals are safe, anytime.

For first timers, joining a land tour is the best option. You just follow the guide and you can enjoy the sights without anxiety. Europe can also be savored through a Mediterranean cruise. Less tiring, as you don't need to pack and unpack often like in a land tour. Staying in the ship while the rest of the passengers go ashore gives you the feeling of owning the gigantic cruise liner for the day.

Whichever way you want to take Europe, it will be a cultural treat. And, at this time of the year, it will be value for your money. Travel safely!