Still need an idea for Valentine’s Day plans? Medieval Times has got you covered

VALENTINE’S DAY is coming up very soon and you’re still looking for something different to do with your special someone?  Finally got a babysitter for that date night with your hubby or wife that you’ve been putting off for a while, but not sure where to go? No worries!
Take a trip back in time to 11th Century Spain to be treated like royalty as the two of you enjoy a delicious four-course feast and a thrilling tournament at Medieval Times!
For all shows from February 3 – 17, Medieval Times is offering a great Valentine’s package to make it a truly memorable occasion.  Use code VDAY20 for an all inclusive couple’s package that includes
  • 2 tickets
  • 2 branded flutes with champagne (non-alcoholic beverages will be served to minors)
  • 1 framed photo
  • 1 light up rose.  

These special packages can be purchased for $110 or as an add-on to individual tickets for $30. To make reservations and purchase this special package, please visit https://www.medievaltimes.com/plan-your-trip/special-offers/valentines-day.html

Car Rental Insurance Guide in Europe

Driving around Europe is a great way to experience the continent. Renting cars in Europe can be tricky, however, as different countries have different rules.

 

Most rental car basic rates include liability insurance for damage to things or people outside the car, as well as to the actual vehicle. This is also known as collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW). However, if the rental car gets damaged or stolen while it is with you — even if it is not your fault — the car hire company will charge you a certain amount for the damage or loss. With a CDW/LDW, the company puts a limit on how much excess it will charge you in case of damage to the car. The amount is reduced but you may still end up having to pay an excess amounting to EUR 1,000–3,000, or even more.

 

To protect yourself from having to pay an exorbitant amount — which can leave a bitter taste after an extraordinary vacation — you usually have three choices:

  • Buy an excess waiver protection from the rental car company to reduce how much you have to pay to zero.
  • Use the coverage that comes with your credit card
  • Buy car hire excess insurance from a third-party seller

 

Some companies include CDW/LDW in their basic rates, so when comparing Europe rental car insurance quotes, find out what coverage is included in the baseline rate. This will help you make a fair comparison and determine if you need to buy additional insurance.

 

Note that in Italy and Ireland, you have to buy CDW or LDW from car rental companies. Credit card coverage and third-party insurance are not allowed.

 

Coverage from Car Rental Companies

This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive, costing around $15–$30/day. In addition, the waiver does not include damages to some parts — such as tires, side mirrors, windows, windshield, undercarriage, roof, and interior.

 

To bring down the excess to zero, you will have to upgrade to the rental firm’s CDW/LDW and purchase “super CDW,” which costs an additional $10–$30/day. This additional cost may double the cost of you car rental (!!!)

 

Credit Card Coverage

Many credit card companies already cover car hire excess insurance, so if you pay for your rental vehicle using the right credit card, you don’t have to pay excess in case the car gets damaged or stolen.

 

Different credit card issuers have different policies, so check first if your card does include such coverage and ask about the following:

 

  • The countries covered
  • The types of vehicles covered
  • What car parts are excluded (if any)
  • If loss or theft of the vehicle is covered
  • The number of rental days covered
  • The maximum amount that can be reimbursed
  • The number of drivers covered

 

For a smoother experience, print out your credit card’s car rental coverage details (in the destination country’s language, if possible) and take it with you when you pick up the vehicle from the rental agency. Most European credit cards don’t include collision insurance, so rental car agents in Europe may not be familiar with it or may push you to buy their insurance nonetheless. Being able to present a document detailing your credit card coverage will come in handy.

 

To make sure that the coverage remains intact, check that you are listed as the driver and use the credit card with the coverage for all activities and expenses related to the rental car — from booking to pick-up to drop-off of the vehicle. Also, make sure not to accept the waivers offered by the rental firm, including the ones that are included in the base rate. Failing to do any of these will invalidate your credit card coverage.

 

Another important thing to know when using your credit card for Europe rental car insurance is that the rental firm may put a hold on your card. This may be a problem if you have a low credit limit and need to purchase other things during your trip, so it is advisable to bring two credit cards. Also, if the available credit on your card is not enough to cover the value of the rental car, you may be required to purchase the rental company’s Super CDW anyway.

 

In addition, in case of damage or theft of the vehicle, the rental agency will charge your card and it will be up to you to get reimbursement from the credit card company after your trip. To file for reimbursement, you need to present a police report and an accident report from the rental firm, then wait for the credit card company to finish processing your claim. Note, however, that many credit card companies file a claim with the client’s personal insurance company before reimbursing the excess, which may affect the client’s personal driving records and insurance premiums.

 

As you can see, dealing with credit card coverage is more complicated than just buying insurance from rental car companies. It is up to you to decide if the potential hassle is acceptable compared to buying the rental agency’s more expensive insurance policy.

 

Third-Party Insurance

Another option to have zero-excess coverage is to get your car hire excess insurance from a third-party seller. Not only will this cost you a fraction of what rental companies charge, the coverage may be more comprehensive. You can buy a policy for a single trip or for a longer period, such as a year. Just be sure to confirm with the insurer that all the countries you’re visiting are covered.

 

When using your third-party car hire excess waiver insurance for Europe rental car insurance the rental firm may put a hold on your card, in the same manner that we described above.

 

In addition, in case of damage or theft of the vehicle, the rental agency will charge your card and it will be up to you to get reimbursement from the third party insurer after your trip. To file for reimbursement, you need to present a police report and an accident report from the rental firm, then wait for the credit card company to finish processing your claim.

 

One of the major benefits of third party car rental excess waiver insurance, other than the fact that it is 70% cheaper than the Super CDW offered by the rental firms is the fact that these policies cover damages to some parts — such as tires, side mirrors, windows, windshield, undercarriage, roof, and interior, which are not covered by the rental firms.

 

Bottom Line

Having sufficient rental car insurance when you’re in Europe is a must for a stress-free trip. You can choose to buy insurance at the rental counter if you prefer convenience. For a more budget-friendly solution, you can just use your credit card benefits. For the best of both worlds, you can purchase a third-party excess waiver insurance policy before your trip.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Mt. Abu

The state of Rajasthan does beckon travelers from all over the world to visit it at least once in their lifetime. This state does boast of having a rich culture, heritage, history and the people here are quite friendly and welcoming. One such place in Rajasthan that is in itself a great place to visit and has plenty of interesting activities around is Mt. Abu. This scenic hill station is without a doubt among the most visited places in the country. It boasts of having a cool atmosphere and lush greenery all around, something that is really amazing, given the fact that Rajasthan is more of a desert state.

Interesting places to visit

Dilwara Temples: It is an important pilgrimage center for the Jains and is also an enchanting site that draws tourists from all religions. This beautifully decorated temple is the effort of Vastupal Tejpal and was built between 11th & 13th There has been used marble liberally and the temple is adorned with intricate carvings. You can come across amazing designs that are etched upon the temple columns, walls, and roofs. There are 5 temples in this temple complex, namely, Mahavir Swami Temple, Vimal Vasahi, Pittalhar, Luna Vasahi, and Parsavanath. It is located 2km from the city and is visited throughout the year.

Brahma Kumari World Spiritual University: It is a spiritual and international organization established by the great Dada Lekhraj Kripalani. You can find yogis in large numbers visiting this place from everywhere. It also houses the meditation place of Dada Lekhraj and is referred to as the ‘Baba’s hut’. Here, you can learn Raja Yoga meditation. The university boasts of having a worldwide following of 8,500+ centers spread across 100 countries globally. It is located 5 km away from the city and is of great interest to spiritual pursuits. You can visit this university at any time of the year.

Universal Peace Hall: It is also called Om Shanti Bhawan. Built within the Brahma Kumari Spiritual University, it is the main hall here, established in 1983 to accommodate 5,000 people at any point in time. there are conducted transactions in about 16 languages simultaneously, as numerous functions are held at this hall. It is presently declared as a tourist place and also is a venue to hold international and spiritual conferences. It is located about 1km away from the city and is quite ideal for those who are spiritually inclined. It is better visited during the monsoons between November & March.

Gaumukh Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and requires the devotees to climb 700 stairs to reach it. from the top, you will be able to have a glimpse of the beautiful valley. Numerous meditation and pilgrimage sessions take place at this temple throughout the year. Gaumukh along with the figurine of Nandi is the main attraction here. Besides Nandi are the idols of Rishi Vashishta, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. The water stream falling from marble bull’s mouth is sure to mystify you and is dedicated to the sacred bull of Lord Shiva named Nandi. This temple is 2km away from the city and can be visited at any time of the year.

Sri Raghunathji Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on Nakki Lake’s banks. A huge number of devotees belonging to the Vaishnav sect come to this temple to seek blessings and prosperity. There is an ancient belief that people of this region were once saved by Sri Raghunathji from challenges and calamities. You can find beautiful carvings, paintings, and inscriptions on its walls. The main idol is a major attraction here. This temple is located 1km away from the city and is best visited between the months of November & March.

Arbuda Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Arbuda Devi, considered to be Katyayani Devi’s incarnation. It also showcases Rajasthan’s opulent architectural heritage. Some historians claim that it was from an ‘Agnikund’ at Mt. Abu that the Parmar rulers had originated. Hence, the Parmar Kshatriyas consider Arbuda Devi to be their ancestral deity and pray to her. There is a well inside the temple that is claimed to have some divine powers and also is revered as Kamadhenu (holy cow) form. It is a fabulous example of Rajasthani rock-cut architecture. It is located just 1km away from the main city and you are sure to enjoy visiting during the Navratra season.

Toad Rock: It is a symbol that is said to represent Mt. Abu and is among the most visited place. you get to see fabulous views of the surrounding lush green hills and the lake that is near the spot. It is located 1.5km away from the city and is sure to be enjoyed by nature enthusiasts. You can visit it throughout the year.

Achalgarh Village: It is a scenic village visited for its temple and fort. The latter is constructed on top of a mountain peak. There is a Nandi at the temple that is claimed to be created using 5 metals. It is 5 km away from the city and can be visited throughout the year. this place is meant for those who are religious and interested in heritage and history.

Trevor’s Tank: It was a crocodile breeding professional named Trevor who had designed this tank to serve as their natural habitat. From this tank, you can get to see the beautiful surroundings. It is also a popular picnic spot frequented by locals and tourists alike. this tank is 5km distance from the city and is perfect for bird watching. It is best visited between November and March.

Guru Shikhar: It is Aravalli Range’s highest peak of 1,722m above sea level. You can find here Guru Dattatreya cave temple and Mt. Abu Observatory on reaching the peak. The observatory houses a 1.2m infrared telescope. It is located 15km away from the city and is best visited during the months of October & November.

You can find budgeted cheap hotels in mount Abu and sure to enjoy your stay here and explore the place.

Airfree Air Purifiers Offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday Special Deals #BlackFriday

 

Consumer can save up to 40% off in Airfree´s products

Airfree, the leading designer and provider of air purifiers that require no maintenance, are filter-less, and completely silent technology, announced today that they will be offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale pricing on two of its top selling air purifiers. Airfree is paving the way using innovative technology solutions for clean indoor atmospheres.

The Black Friday sale will begin at 12:01 AM EST on Friday, November 22, 2019 and will end on Monday, December 1, 2019 at 11:59 PM EST.

The featured Black Friday sale item is:

40% Off – Airfree Iris 3000

Buy for: $199.00

The Cyber Week sale will begin at 12:01 AM EST on December 2, 2019 AM EST and will end on Friday,

December 6, 2019 at 11:59 PM EST.

The featured Cyber Week sale item is:

35% Off – Airfree Lotus

              Buy for: $259.00

Consumers can find these slashed sale prices by shopping online at major retailers like: Amazon, Bed Bath and Beyond, Home Depot. To see complete list please visit: www.airfree.com

Airfree Air Purifiers reduce microbiological contamination in the air naturally, without using chemicals or filters.  Airfree’s exclusive technology works by eliminating microorganisms as bacteria, viruses, mold, dust mist allergens, pet dander allergens, using heat, destroying them in a fraction of a second. Depending on the model, between 14,000 and 20,000 liters of air pass through the Airfree device every hour, treating all the air in the room in a very short space of time. The process works in much the same way as sterilizing water by boiling it; when water is boiled, the microorganisms it contains are eliminated.

Airfree continually draws in air from the room, heating it to over 400 ºF and instantly sterilizing it. The purified air is then cooled inside the device before being returned to the room. The entire process is completely silent and requires no maintenance, not even the occasional replacement of parts. All you have to do is switch the device on and leave it on to perform the task.

The Iris 3000 standalone model is recommended for rooms up to 650sqft., weighs only 3.3 pounds, is guaranteed for 2 years, has a low energy consumption of 51 watts, uses 120 volts of electricity and offers users exclusive multicolor light option.

About Airfree:

Airfree’s mission is to combine the best technology and design, to turn our clients’ needs into innovative solutions for indoor atmospheres, whether for health reasons, comfort or to increase productivity. The technology began being developed thanks to the initiative and creativity of a Portuguese businessman in an effort to find an effective way to ease his son’s allergy attacks. After successful testing at the INETI microbiological laboratory in Portugal, large-scale production of the devices began to take shape so that more families worldwide could be able to enjoy the benefits of a simple, effective concept.

In 2004, after a few adjustments had been made to improve electronics and capacity, Airfree was born. This was marked by the launch of its P air purifier range, attractive and modern in design. Since then, Airfree has continued to grow, manufacturing a variety of models of air purifiers in Europe, intended for use not only in the home but also geared towards trade and industry. For more information please visit www.airfree.com.

Flamingo Gardens Fort Lauderdale FL

Bird Watching Up Close and Personal at the Flamingo Gardens Botanical Gardens and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary

Flamingo Gardens Bird Preserve Fort Lauderdale Florida

Anyone that has ever been attracted to bird watching and communing with nature needs to add the Flamingo Gardens in Fort Lauderdale Florida to their list of travel destinations.

Flamingo Gardens bird preserve large white birdThe gardens are in part a small zoo or sanctuary for animals that can’t live in the wild, while giving visitors a peek into the magic of the Everglades. With interesting local wildlife and the usual exhibits you might expect comes the unexpected surprise of real immersion.

There are owls you can view through the wire of their habitats, educational shows, and a tram ride to offer a look behind the scenes, but Flamingo Gardens Botanical Gardens and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary has something that really stands out. An open habitat aviary that is home to a variety of indigenous fowl.

Seeing a pelican and some of the other large species is a little like coming face to face with a dinosaur. The smaller birds fly from tree to tree overhead while their larger cousins paddle in the water or waddle on land. Walking within a few feet of these magical creatures is a captivating way to understand why birds fascinate so many of us. My family has owned a few birds over the years so this was not my first time getting to study them up close, but the shear volume and variety was amazing. You will definitely be clicking away with your camera!

Birds nests at the Flamingo Gardens BOTANICAL GARDENS & EVERGLADES WILDLIFE SANCTUARYBetween that level of interaction, the natural beauty of the trees and plants, you could not pick a more lovely place to spend the afternoon. If you want to get a real feel for the Everglades after this up close look at the wildlife that lives there you simply drive a few miles up the road and into the Everglades National Forest. Flamingo Gardens offers the opportunity to view all this wildlife up close right next-door  to National Forest where you see the grander and full scope of the environment these animals come from.

 

When planning a trip to Fort Lauderdale this is a top choice for destinations. Really getting a feel for local wildlife brings the whole experience to another level beyond just viewing animals at any of the zoos around the country. Their mission as a wildlife and botanical sanctuary is something we can support. Educating visitors about endangered plant and wildlife species in the Everglades and Southern Florida while enjoying a day out in nature is a winning combo.

Wildlife preserve at Flamingo Gardens Fort Lauderdale Florida red eyed bird and Everglades sign

To find out more or plan a visit to Flamingo Gardens Botanical Gardens and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary visit their website Flamingogardens.org or follow them on Social Media – TwitterFacebookInstagram

The very best Golf Breaks choose by Golf Holidays Direct

 

The following is a guest post. All opinions are those of the author.

The best way to book a Golf Holiday with Golf Holidays Direct. The right place to travel on your golf break is always easier when booking with specialists. Here at Golf Holidays Direct we will help you every step of the way to find the very best value golf breaks for your group. Book with Confidence as Golf Holidays Direct are ATOL protected golf travel experts. 

Below are the very best 7 golf breaks in Spain for you to book your next golf holiday.

Westin La Quinta

Golf holidays to Spain are a perfect getaway for a short distance flight to find some golf in the sun. The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort is a 5* hotel that is set on the 27-hole La Quinta Golf and Country Club, this luxury golf and spa resort is 7 km from the beach and marina at Puerto Banus. 

Featuring terracotta floors, handcrafted furniture, and terraces with golf course or pool views, the posh rooms and suites offer 24/7 room service, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Family rooms provide freebies to kids, and suites and upgraded rooms add sitting areas.

Classes are available at the golf academy (fee)There are 3 Mediterranean and Japanese restaurants on site along with 2 bars, plus 3 outdoor pools, a kids’ club and free parking. 

If you are travelling to La Quinta for your golf holidays and are looking to incorporate other local golf courses, then Golf Holidays Direct are certainly able to offer packages. We work with other golf courses in the area such as Marbella Golf & Country Club, Los Naranjos, Cabopino, Santa Clara, Los Arqueros, Atalaya old & new, plus many, many more. We are certain that we can package up your perfect golf holiday to Marbella.

Hotel PYR Fuengirola 

Golfers travelling to Spain on their golf holiday always find them selves strongly considering travelling to Fuengirola. The PYR Fuengirola Hotel is centrally located and directly next to the lively promenade and the marina. The hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace. Guests will find an array of shops and other entertainment options within walking distance.

The modern and comfortable rooms come with an en suite bathroom, a telephone, satellite/ cable TV, a kitchenette, a fridge, central heating and their own safe. All the apartments are cleaned at the end guests’ stay.

The hotel offers an indoor swimming pool, a swimming pool, a snack bar, sun loungers, parasols and a solarium. Further offers include water skiing, jet skiing, motor-boating, diving, sailing, mountain biking, mini golf and golf. 

Vinicci Tenerife Golf

A golf holidays to Spain ticks all the box’s, guaranteed sunshine all year round and five championship golf courses on the Island. When booking a golf break to Vincci Tenerife Golf you will be able to take advantage of their fantastic offers which see all the courses on the island included. The resort is found in the town of San Miguel de Abona, one of the most popular destinations on the island, and is within easy reach of Adeje, Arona and Granadilla. Vincci Tenerife Golf guests will be welcomed to one of the hotel’s 125 rooms and suites, all of which are fully equipped with air-conditioning, mini-bar, internet connectivity, satellite television and direct dial telephone. Contemporary styling and modern furnishings throughout make the hotel a delightful place to relax while the levels of service are excellent. With the proximity to Golf Del Sur, the beaches and local attractions, Vincci Tenerife Golf is an outstanding choice for a golf holiday in the sunny Canaries. In addition to the excellent outdoor swimming pool and tennis court, the resort boasts the Nammu Areas SPA with sauna, Turkish bath, active pool and massage room. Contemporary styling and modern furnishings throughout make the hotel a delightful place to relax while the levels of service are excellent. With the proximity to Golf Del Sur, the beaches and local attractions, Vincci Tenerife Golf is an outstanding choice for a golf holiday in the sunny Canaries.

Contact the golf breaks specialist at Golf Holidays Direct to start planning your amazing next golf vacation today. 

“CHASING RAINBOWS: THE ROAD TO OZ” AT PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE

chasing rainbows

Paper Mill Playhouse, recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award, presents the New Jersey premiere of Chasing Rainbows: The Road to Oz with a book by Marc Acito, musical adaptation & additional music by David Libby and conceived by and additional lyrics by Tina Marie CasamentoChasing Rainbows: The Road to Oz began performances September 26, 2019, and will continue through Sunday, October 27, 2019, at Paper Mill Playhouse (22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, NJ). Bank of America is the major sponsor for Chasing Rainbows: The Road to Oz. Paper Mill Playhouse’s 2019-2020 season is proudly sponsored by Investors BankOpening Night is Sunday, October 6, 2019, at 7:00pm.

Directed and choreographed by Tony award nominee Denis Jones, Orchestrations by Larry Blank and David Libby with music direction by Lawrence Yurman, the principal cast features Ruby Rakos (Billy Elliot) as Judy Garland/Frances Gumm, Tony Award nominee Max Von Essen (An American in Paris, Paper Mill’s The Baker’s Wife) as Frank Gumm, Olivier Award-winner Lesli Margherita (Matilda, Dames at Sea) as Ethel Gumm, Karen Mason (Mamma Mia!, And the World Goes ‘Round) as Ma Lawlor/Kay Koverman, Stephen DeRosa (Into the Woods, HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire”) as Louis B. Mayer, Michael Wartella (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Tuck Everlasting) as Mickey Rooney, and Colin Hanlon (ABC’s “Modern Family”, Paper Mill’s Benny & Joon) as Roger Edens.

Rounding out the cast are Tia Altinay, Mackenzie Bell, Kristen Grace Brown, Lamont Brown, Joe Cassidy, Clara Cox, Tessa Grady, Sophie Knapp (Teaneck, NJ), Molly Lyons, Kimberly Immanuel, Christina Maxwell, Kevin B. McGlynn, Allsun O’Malley, Samantha Joy Pearlman, Drew Redington, Joshua J. Schwartz, Parker Slaybaugh, Sean Thompson, Violet Tinnirello and Kathy Voytko (Bloomfield, NJ).

Before she burst onto the big screen as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Judy Garland was a young vaudeville trouper named Frances Gumm. In this highly anticipated new musical chronicling Garland’s early career from vaudeville baby to MGM teen star in the making, the road to Oz is paved with adversity. At its heart a story of love between a father and daughter, featuring such legendary songs as “Over the Rainbow,” “You Made Me Love You,” and “Everybody Sing,” Chasing Rainbows is a poignant coming-of-age tale about “the little girl with the big voice,” who went on to become one of the world’s most beloved entertainment icons. The show has already earned praise from Liza Minnelli, who said, “My mother said that her biography is in her music, and now a talented creative team is using that music to tell the story of her early years and her extraordinary rise to fame.”

The production team includes scenic design by Alexander Dodge, costume design by Linda Cho, lighting design by Japhy Weideman, sound design by Matt Kraus, projection design by Peter Nigrini, hair and wig design by Charles G. LaPointe, and makeup design by Dena OlivieriJohn Fricke serves as creative consultant. The production stage manager is Bonnie Panson. Casting is by Tara Rubin Casting.

Chasing Rainbows: The Road to Oz will be performed at Paper Mill Playhouse eight times a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Performance schedule: Wednesday at 7:30pm, Thursday at 1:30pm and 7:30pm, Friday at 8:00pm, Saturday at 1:30pm and 8:00pm and Sunday at 1:30pm and 7:00pm. Season subscriptions are on sale now and are available by calling 973.379.3717. Individual tickets go on sale Monday, August 19, starting at $34. Tickets may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at www.PaperMill.org. All major credit cards accepted. Groups of 10 or more may receive up to a 40% discount on tickets and should call 973.315.1680. Students may order $23-$28 rush tickets over the phone or in person at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office on the day of the performance.

For additional information, please visit www.papermill.org.

Flying with Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common issue among adults, and the symptoms that go hand in hand with vein disorders can be grueling to deal with each day. Varicose veins are most often characterised by the bulging, darkened, or twisted veins that are noticeable beneath the skin’s surface. Not only are they a cosmetic concern for many people, but varicose veins also cause pain and discomfort, ranging from mild to severe. 

Living with varicose veins may mean managing swelling and itching at or around the varicose vein site, heaviness in the legs or feet, or aching that does not subside easily. Although these issues can be handled while at home or work, there may be more significant concerns for those flying with varicose veins. It is essential to understand the dangers of flying as it relates to varicose veins and the steps you can take to prevent issues in the air. 

The Dangers of Flying with Vein Issues

According to a vein specialist at Radiance Varicose Vein Clinic, the dangers of flying with varicose veins are mostly connected to why varicose veins occur in the first place. When valve failure takes place within the veins of the legs, blood pools in the body instead of flowing back to the heart as it is meant to do. This creates vein wall breakdown, leading to the swelling and bulging often seen with varicose veins. When taking flight, the change in cabin pressure may result in adverse effects on individuals with varicose veins, connected to the potential for a blood clot. 

For those who have been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis or DVT, flying with varicose veins may be far more dangerous than when broken vein walls are the only issue at hand. This is because DVT is a condition where blood clots form deep within the veins of the legs. The change in pressure on a flight could cause a blood clot to dislodge and move to other areas of the body, such as the heart of the lungs. Devastating outcomes may result, including a heart attack or a pulmonary embolism. 

Having varicose veins does not mean one also has DVT, but the combination of these conditions could mean trouble with flying. Varicose veins may form clots in the legs because blood is not flowing correctly throughout the body, and flying increases the risk of a clot moving elsewhere. To ensure you are safe while in the air, with DVT, varicose veins, or both, consult a doctor first. If they give the green light for traveling by plane, consider taking extra precaution by following the steps below.

Tips for Flying Safely

If you are at risk for DVT or have varicose veins, flying may be both stressful and uncomfortable. One of the simplest steps to take to reduce the chances of complications with varicose veins is to pack compression stockings for the trip. Compression stockings are knee-length socks and add gentle pressure to the legs and ankles, intended to boost blood flow during idle periods. Wearing compression stockings on a flight that is more than a few hours long can help improve circulation while seated. 

In addition to compression stockings, experts suggest getting up and moving around during a flight when possible. Planning to stretch the legs and walk up and down the aisle every half hour to an hour keeps the blood flowing, especially on a long journey. 

The Need for Treatment

Flying with varicose veins is not inherently dangerous, but if you are also at risk for DVT, certain precautions need to be taken to keep yourself safe and healthy. Compression stockings and scheduled breaks for walking and stretching at the best tools to have at your disposal. It is also recommended to discuss with your doctor ways to minimise the potential complications of varicose veins while traveling, before hitting the skies. 

However, it is just as crucial to consider treatment options that reduce varicose vein symptoms or eliminate varicose veins altogether moving forward. Several treatment options exist, including non- and minimally-invasive solutions, so know that there are choices for managing varicose veins in a more permanent way.