If you're thinking of going to Europe this spring or summer, this is the time to start watching airfares. Typically, fares go on sale in January, but they don't usually cover travel later than mid-April. If bookings stay soft, you'll probably see deals that run through May and possibly into June. If you see a fare you like, snag it; airlines have cut capacity this year and there may be fewer good prices around. If you're looking to cruise in Europe this summer, expect the best values to turn up during "wave season" in January and February. To find deals, sign up for fare alerts from sites like Travelocity and SmarterTravel and from individual airlines and cruise lines.
MCCLATCHY NEWS SERVICE
EU emissions law may push airfares higher A new European Union law will address climate change, but the law might send airfares up. The Emissions Trading Scheme requires airlines flying to or from EU countries to offset their carbon dioxide emissions in a cap-and-trade plan. This year, airlines will get 82 percent of the certificates for free but must purchase another 15 percent or risk a fine or even a ban. The most likely result: Fares will rise. "The airlines won't eat the tax. They'll pass it on," said Airfarewatchdog's George Hobica. "It'll only be $30 or $40 ... but every little bit hurts."
WASHINGTON POST
North Pole trip can be reality, for right price Dream of visiting the North Pole? Hope you've saved your pennies. In April you can visit by plane out of Longyearbyen, Norway. Planes land at 89 degrees latitude at the Russian ice station Barneo, then passengers take a helicopter another 40 minutes to the North Pole. One company offering the trip is the Russian firm Victory in Arctic & Antarctic Research, April 2-7 (norpolex.com), for $17,500. Polar Explorers is offering a "Last Degree" ski expedition, where you ski from the 89th to the 90th parallel, from April 10-23. It's $32,400.
DETROIT FREE PRESS
