Travel outlook

It was just six years ago that we wrote the first of many articles for The Longboat Observer, with the somewhat provocative headline, “Jet lag is a myth.” After logging more than 500,000 miles since, we still believe it. We also continue to believe that travel is easy, mentally rewarding and, most importantly, fun.

Yes, even with the headlines about security delays and weather problems, most flights arrive on time. And travel is not just about getting there — the joy is in what you do there.

Looking back at 2009
In this brief looking-back section of last year, the highlight was Linz, Austria, the European Capital of Culture for 2009. This was the 17th annual event, which is sponsored by the European Union and continues for an entire year in the selected city or cities. We have enjoyed attending ECC in recent years and coming away with many bright memories. Events are truly kaleidoscopes that include technology, art, music for all tastes and extraordinarily creative projects that take place throughout the city. Some exist for the entire year, while other venues live for only days, weeks or months. On any given day, there are dozens of projects to visit.

We finished our Linz trip with a two-day stop in Prague — a destination that many people label as their favorite city. Everybody loves Prague, well, almost everybody. Our traveling friends were not so enthusiastic, noting that there was a lack of joy in the citizenry. That does not take away from the quaint city center or the unforgettable Jewish cemetery, which has existed for hundreds of years and contains hundreds of moving stories.

Looking forward to 2010
In looking forward to 2010, we make our annual plea to encourage our readers to travel. Yes, there are some difficult moments, but moments pass and beautiful memories endure. For a European trip, consider stops in Istanbul, Essen, Germany, or Pécs, Hungary, which are all sites of the European Capital of Culture in 2010. We have seen each of the preliminary year-long programs, and this looks like one of the best years.

While in Europe, the Eurostar (or Chunnel) has a bright new station in London and an even faster track — making the trip to downtown Paris in just over two hours. A day trip between these two great cities is possible. One word of warning: Try to avoid a connecting flight through Heathrow, which has managed to replace Charles De Gaulle as the worst large airport in the world. The much anticipated new Terminal Five for British Airways still suffers from the same dismal management as the other older terminals.

As World’s Fair junkies, we are also planning a trip to Shanghai, which is hosting what promises to be a full-fledged World’s Fair for six months starting May 1. “EXPO 2010 Shanghai, China” is the official designation and will have more than 200 countries and companies participating. Even without the expo, Shanghai is a marvelous destination that can be combined with Hong Kong or many other Asian cities.

Take advantage of this once-in-a-life-time event.

And, of course, our own country is filled with magnificent cities and national parks to excite the mind and eye. Yes, there might be a few momentary irritations, but temporary problems fade quickly and we are left with indelible memories and a wider view of the world. Let us know of your own great travel experiences in 2010, and we will be pleased to include your suggestions in future articles.

Stuart and Lois Scheyer are in their 70s and are residents of Longboat Key. They each log more than 100,000 air miles a year. They will be pleased to answer any travel questions and can be reached by e-mail at [email protected]