Travel to Phoenix on Southwest Airlines was seamless. The flights were about 75% full so there was plenty of room to stretch out. There should not be a concern about the new advance check in policy as long as you check in 24 hrs before flight time. You will get the seats you want. We changed in Vegas and got in early so the lay over was a little longer than expected. In Scottsdale, the weather was very mild and pleasant. Tempuratures were 70’s during the day, 50’s at night. Travel day was a long day and with the change in time zones, it seems even longer. We used a great airport transfer company-Arizona Horseless Carriage, 602-485-4280. They cost about $35 each way. Ask for Vince. The Marriott Suites, just off Scottsdale Ave (a major thoroughfare), ... read more

London 11/22-29/08 US Airways was on time both in Albany and Philadelphia for our flights to London Heathrow. Remember that the flights to Philly are on small jets so carry on luggage must be small or it will be gate checked. The flight to London was on an A300 series jet with 2 aisles. Seating was very cramped so sleeping was difficult even though the flight departed before 11PM and most of us were tired. The food was awful (we ate before the flight at the airport), the staff was friendly and helpful and the in-flight viewing entertainment was adequate. Bring your own headphones. Adult beverages were expensive-$7 for wine. Clearing customs and immigration at Heathrow was easy and swift. Luggage retrieval took longer than usual. We took the Heathrow Express train to Paddington Station in ... read more