Ask Endora

Dear Endora,

My friend is afraid of going to the Big Island because of Pele. What is Pele? Should we be afraid?

Fearful in Vancouver

Dear Fearful,

The enduring mythical Pele is an ancient vengeful Hawaiian fire goddess whom many natives actually believe to be true. Myth has it that Pele will put a curse of bad luck on anyone who takes even the smallest piece of lava rock off the island. There is actually a museum that receives large amounts of mail from past vacationers returning the lava rocks they have taken with letters explaining their horror stories. I actually know several locals whom truly believe in Pele and some people say they can "sense" her unsettling power while on the Big Island.

As for me, I'm not overly superstitious but... I've been to the Big Island many times and have yet to come home with a single rock. You can make up your own mind when you visit but I'm not one to tempt the Gods.

Endora

Dear Endora,

I am getting ready to be nominated leader of putting together our large family vacation. I have heard from friends that this is a huge undertaking and getting everyone coordinated for payments can be a nightmare. When I use the services of Incredible Journey can multiple payments be made by several family members?

Getting Organized!

Dear Getting Organized,

My word YES! First I would like to say, “hats off to you for taking on this job.” Please be assured that a true travel professional will be able to organize your family vacation so that each member of your family will know what is owed, which property they are staying at, airfare arrangements etc. This is what our travel professionals do and will make this daunting task appear like a walk in the park! Once back from vacation I know you will appreciate the services of our consultants for helping to create a memorable family vacation that your family will accredit to your wise and witty way!

Happy planning,
   Endora

Endora,

I am forever getting confused on how much time prior to my flight I should allow for check in at the airport, what say you?

Abigail – Wisconsin

Dear Abigail,

I agree it can get mind boggling trying to plan the ever stressful day of travel, but here is a simple rule of thumb.

For domestic flights (in the United States) you should allow ninety minutes to two hours prior to your flight departure for check in and security.

If traveling internationally you should allow two to three hours prior to your departure for flight check in and security.

However, in either scenario if you are arranging for flights from one airport to another and your flights are not on one ticket I highly recommend no less than two hours for domestic flights, and no less than three hours for international flights.

Finally you should check with your travel advisor and the airlines if you have any questions.

Take care,
   Endora