Increased airline service and new airports make the Caribbean accessible

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A highly popular way to reach the Caribbean, presumably because of the speed and convenience, is via airplane. Although it's usually best to book your ticket in advance, if your travel plans are flexible, you can seek out last-minute bargains.

Another money-saving option is to pick off-peak flight times. For example, flights departing mid-week or in the fall, spring, and summer months are often cheaper than flights on the weekends or in the winter months. A Saturday stay-over or departure from an alternate airport can also diminish the price of your ticket. Specially priced plane tickets are typically nonrefundable. Also, you'll likely incur a fee if you later alter the date or time of your travel.

Most flights from the United States are nonstop to the Caribbean, and direct flights typically connect in San Juan or St. Thomas. Many Caribbean airports are small, so arriving passengers cannot typically deplane directly to the terminal. Few airports provide shuttle service, so expect a long walk on the tarmac to the terminal to claim your luggage. If you have a physical ailment preventing you from walking, be sure to arrange an alternate form of transportation with one of the airline attendants prior to arriving in the Caribbean.

Airlines

Once you're in the Caribbean, you can island hop by way of one of the many small Caribbean airlines. To get there, though, you'll want to rely on one of these airline companies, all of which have regularly scheduled flights to the Caribbean from hubs as indicated:

Airlines servicing the Caribbean from the United States:

Airlines servicing the Caribbean from Canada and Europe:

Airlines servicing the Caribbean from Central and South America:

Airlines offering connections between major flights and local Caribbean service:

If you're unfamiliar with an airline's reputation, consult the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA ranks carriers based on safety, service and performance. Contact the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave., SW; Washington D.C., 20591 or via the internet at www.faa.gov. You can also phone the FAA regarding specific issues:

Airport Security

Due to increased terrorist activity in recent years, airports have enhanced security measures, especially in the U.S. In addition to regular baggage screening procedures, airports now have additional required security checks. New checkpoints screen both carry-on luggage and passengers. Added security officers are stationed at these checkpoints to personally search travelers who trigger the detector alarm as they pass through.

Many airports also conduct random passenger inspections at which point security personnel conduct a complete search of the person and all of all their belongings. Because of these added security stops, you should plan on arriving at the airport one hour in advance for domestic flights and two hours for international flights so you have ample time to pass through all of the security clearance points.

To reduce waiting time and ensure you reach your gate in a timely manner, heed these airport standards and advisements:

• Do not wear metal objects such as steel-toed boots, heavy jewelry or bulky belt buckles as these items could set off the checkpoint detectors.

• If you have any metal surgical implants, bring a note from your doctor to avoid a long meeting with an airport official.

• Bring and keep handy your government-issued passport--this is required for security clearance.

• Remember that you will only be allowed to pass through security with a ticket for travel (non-ticketed persons can only pass through if accompanying a child, elderly or disabled person). An official confirmation page for an e-ticket will suffice. Make sure you have your ticket or e-ticket confirmation page, and your ID before you get to the airport.

• Confirm your flight before heading to the airport.

Carry-On Luggage

Airports and airlines have implemented new regulations for carry-on luggage in recent years. Certain items, such as metal scissors and razors, are not permitted on flights. For a complete list of regulated items, visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website at www.tsa.gov/public/index.jsp or call 1-866-289-9673 in the U.S. Other carry-on rules are as follows:

• The carry-on limit per passenger is one carry-on bag plus one private item such as a briefcase, laptop case or purse.

• Food and beverages must be purchased after passengers have gone through the security check-points. Do not pack these items in your carry-on luggage and try to go through security - they will be thrown out because they pose a security risk.

• Do not take any wrapped presents with you. If the package sets off a detector, security officials will be forced to unwrap, and possibly damage, the present.

Caribbean travelers will find airlines one of the most convenient ways to reach the islands. With consistent schedules and plenty of flight options it's easy to see why this is the most popular way to arrive.

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