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Midway Atoll. Tourism Soon?

IMAGE: Ikonos via CNN.com
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A story this week on CNN.com says Midway Atoll may soon be open for tourist. You've been able to visit the Atoll now but, it wasn't your typical "phone call to your travel agent".

"The public can currently only get to the island by boarding a cruise from Asia, hitching a ride with resident government workers or volunteering for three months of environmental duty." [CNN.com]

As most of you know, the Battle of Midway was a major turning point in WWII and this battle is what most people relate Midway to.

However, Midway Atoll is part of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument and as such, is an important refuse and research area.

Midway Atoll may be open as early as mid-2007 but, plans have not been finalized. What an amazing and informative trip this would be!

More information on Midway Atoll

NOAA's Hawaii Reef Site
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Wikipedia Page

Holiday Travel Issues

During the busiest travel time of the year, we thought it would be a good idea to update you on the latest FAA travel requirements. These are general guidelines. To be completely safe check with your airlines prior to departure.

1. Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit in a one quart size, clear plastic, zip-top bag.

2. After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area onboard the aircraft.

3. Be aware of the clothing that you are wearing through the security checkpoint. Certain clothes can have metal accessories that will set off an alarm, slowing you down.

4. Keep your boarding pass and i.d. accessible until exiting the security checkpoint.

5. You are required to remove your shoes.

6. Remove items such as keys, loose change, mobile phones etc from your pockets. Put them in your carry on bag, or in a plastic bag.

7. All coats and jackets that you are carrying with you must go through the x-ray machine for inspection.

8. You cannot bring lighters, fueled or non-fueled.

9. You cannot bring matches.

10. The maximum size carry-on bag for most airlines is 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag). Anything larger should be checked. Plan to check more of your baggage and carry on less. But in certain situations the airline may require all baggage to be checked. Be prepared to do so.

For a complete list of all permitted and prohibited items check the TSA Website