In the last few years, since the start of the global financial crisis, some airlines have gone out of business while others have been forced to reduce their capacity. With fewer airlines and lower capacity, the demand ratio for available seats is obviously higher. As a consequence, airlines are less inclined to reduce the price. Coupled with rising fuel prices, this has meant that the cost of air travel has gone up year on year. Travel chiefs and pundits are not expecting it to change anytime soon.

One of the most important lessons travelers learn is that they should work only with trustworthy individuals and companies. Whether it is booking a hotel room, finding a great rental car or securing travel documents, travelers need to be careful.

If this is your first time traveling outside the United States, there are a few things you need to know before you embark on your trip. For one thing, a passport is required to travel outside the country, even if you are traveling to Mexico or Canada. You also need to know if a visa is required too. Places like Australia require a tourist visa in order for you to enter their country. Their travel visas can be obtained electronically for a low fee.