October, 2007

Orbitz for Business helpful tip!

When calling an OFB agent you can always circumvent the prompt messages but simply stating “customer service” or “help” to be quickly connected with a travel counselor. This is a recommended remedy should the prompt not recognize your name or respective phone number.

Speaking of Orbitz for Business

Did you know that if you hold elite status in a particular airline frequent flyer program, you may request qualifying upgrades by clicking the upgrade box when completing your reservation?  Please let Travel Services know by emailing us at travel@yale.edu, if you would like us to turn this option on in your profile.  Of course, all upgrade requests require that you obtain a mileage certificate from your airline account to pay for the upgrade.

New Requirements for Entry to Japan effective November 23, 2007

Japan has recently announced a policy change regarding entry at border crossings for Non-Japanese citizens which will go into effect November 23, 2007. This policy change will affect ALL non-Japanese citizens arriving in Japan regardless of travel purpose, duration of stay or previous entries (except for those traveling on diplomatic or special government related clearance).

All travelers will be fingerprinted and photographed upon entry through Japanese Immigration. Travelers who refuse to be subject to fingerprinting and photography will be refused entry and immediately deported or possibly detained.
It is unknown at this time how this will effect entry times. There is an expectation that this policy change will result in delays as immigration officers explain the new policy to travelers who are unaware of it. The Japanese government will most likely increase staffing and provide handouts for travelers upon arrival in the terminal or otherwise inform people of the new policy, but expect this to cause delays in entry.

Yale and the World Website

The Yale and the World Website contains valuable travel resources including an emergency travel plan, safety tips, checklists and guidelines for travelers and group leaders traveling abroad.  This information can be found at http://world.yale.edu/abroad/travel_resources.html. 

If you are traveling outside of the United States , please take a few minutes to complete the emergency travel and contact form at http://world.yale.edu/travelform/.  The information you provide will be used by the Office of the Secretary to reach you in the event of an emergency .