Luggage size

Azul says on Apr 6, 2007, 08:53:

2 Bags + Cary-on You can bring 2 bags plus your carry on. I'm not sure about your 96 inch perimeter, but if it is anything like the weight restrictions they have it will cost you a pretty penny.

las cosas caen por su propio peso

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 6, 2007, 08:57:

Good.. That's good to know...2 bags plus carry-on..Thanks...

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 6, 2007, 09:02:

I did! the year before last with Air France, i had 2 luggages one exceed the recomended allowance and I was over the limit in weight in both, they were very strict, i had to send one suitcase via cargo and that cost me 150 p0unds and a big headache and still I was over the limit with the other one I had to paid too. they allowed 23 kilos maximum in each luggage.
23 kilos!!! is nothing.

I flew with British airways last year and they are better they allowed me 32 kilos in each luggage and they are not as strict as Air France, I know they are introducing a luggage allowance limit this year but except to passengers flying to the USA or latinoamerica.

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miamimike says on Apr 6, 2007, 09:54:

Depends on the Airline and your Nationality,,, First time I used Avianca and at Avianca's Miami Ticket Counter, they informed me my Little Carry on which had wheels was OK size wise(it fit in the Sizing template)to carry on and store in the overhead bin as well as my shoulder bag(where I keep my Camera,small Sony SW radio ect) To my surprise, as I boarded the plane and I was one of the first to be seated,I was informed "NO Señor", you cannot put your bag on the plane--ANY PLACE! You need to return to the ticket counter(hell of a long walk) and check it there. I did that and on returning to the plane, I observed many others now on the plane jamming huge bags, boxes ect into the overhead. Microwaves and baby cribs (in boxes) were being secured in unused seats and also jammed into below floor space by the seats. Some of the large boxes that would not fit in any conceiveable passenger seating areas and was Even stored in the forward area where they prepare food and where the Flight Attendents store various items(non passenger usually). I was one of the only Gringo Americans onboard for the flight, most of the Passengers were Latinos(as). You be the judge-should be the same rule for all IMO,,,

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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Buongone says on Apr 6, 2007, 09:56:

Excess Baggage It will probably be either EXCESS, or OVER SIZE. So all that checking back with the internet to see if the price you made was a good one, is all in vain. It will cost you anywhere from $50-100 US. You should go to the next casting call for, DEAL, or NO DEAL. Pick # 13.

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manINred says on Apr 6, 2007, 10:02:

Yeah same deal Kat Flying British airways, they don't care, they are the best and most accomodating airline I have had the pleasure to deal with, and they will let you go over the restrictions within reason. I wouldn't take that chance with Avianca or American mind you, just separate your suitcase into 2 smaller ones, or call and ask the airlines directly, see what they say.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 6, 2007, 10:18:

last year I took 2 normal size suitcase + my hand luggage and I was ok, my kids took each one a suitcase+ their handluggage + my son his skateboard and my daughter his guitar my husband his video camera + laptop and there was no problem at all with British, actually is my favourite airline. i don't care to pay a bit more but I know I won't get too much hassle like the other Airlines, the service is good and checking fast. Air France is the worst.

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miamimike says on Apr 6, 2007, 10:30:

You have the Best Idea Kat when you write,,, "i don't care to pay a bit more but I know I won't get too much hassle like the other Airlines, the service is good and checking fast." I feel the same, "You get what you pay for" be it an Airline Ticket or an auto mechanic,Chef ect. Cheapest Airlines and tickets I now avoid, my idea is that if I cannot afford an extra $100-$200 for a Airline Ticket for a hassle and stress free(safe also) flight, I probably can't really afford a Vacation to start with, all things considered,,,

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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Buongone says on Apr 6, 2007, 10:41:

Oversize computer bag, BS Same thing happened to me on Avianca. Going up to board. Some ticket lady down by the plane says, sory, Sr. That bag is too big. She tickets it and on I go, on the plane. I look at these baggage compartments. They had to be the largest I've ever seen. All kinds of Latinos/Colombians, are carrying on stuff twice the size of mine. I get to Cali. Out comes my computer with all the other luggage. Turns out my 35MM SLR did not work after that. Took it to ChipiChapa. Dude says did you drop this camera lately. Should have turned it into Avianca. So also watch where you put ya chit!

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miamimike says on Apr 6, 2007, 10:45:

Hey Buongone, Whats up with these Double Standards? That confirms my suspicions that I wasn't the only one subjected to this Unfair treatment,,,Should be the same standard and treatment for all paying passengers,,,

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 6, 2007, 13:32:

Beware.. I will be on the lookout for the double standard and it's nice to know what experiences some of you have had. This is all very helpful. Thanks...

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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Buongone says on Apr 6, 2007, 15:48:

Double Standards, Huh? Yea, they had sure had some double standards coming down on Avianca. I was standing at the luggage belt in Cali. Had my camera inside my computer bag. Some how it fell over. So when the dude at the camera store asked me about it, I just figured it was the old bags inability to stand up correct. I gave the old non working camera away and bought me a digital later. Was thinking about asking the lady at the counter in Cali about them replacing the camera. I looked at the ticket. They had me upgraded to 1st class. So I let it shine.

Now when you fly with Avianca out of Cali. The Colombian Police/Security go through ya chit pretty well. Takes at least 45 Minutes. Them just harrassing you. When you fly with AA. Go to the counter. Listen to some dudes speal about anybody this, anybody that. NO, No, No. Get to the counter. Lady prints your ticket. You go pay some money. Come back to the head of the line. They hand over the tickets. And done deal. Now when I flew Avianca the customs I had to pay. When I flew AA, it came out of the ticket. Now this dude that is asking the question on this thread. He needs to remember to have about $20, when he hits the ticket counter coming home. I once saw a lady at the airport in PV, MX. She lost her little temp Visa they give you. She did not have the $10 for a new one. I have done the same thing before, when I saked they just gave me one. Now this poor lady had been there for 1 1/2 days. I just gave her a $10 bill. She almost screwed me right there. She was so happy. But then again. Double Standards. Now whats with that. Two different ways of doing the chit? Given a chance. I'd fly AA. Unless Avianca is going to put me in 1st class free. I don't know. Some airlines are more lenient than others. It all depends on ways they do chit, and some times personalities. Smile and be happy. Just remember to have some cash or a crdit card available at all times.

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 6, 2007, 16:07:

One more thing... Well, it's good to know some of the possible and unexpected things I may or may not encounter. I am flying AA to MEX and then Avianca to BOG.
I've been told to copy my documents and carry them with me. I know to photocopy my passport, but what other documents need copying? I need to keep them with me at all times while in Colombia as well as the photocopy of my passport?

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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Beantown says on Apr 6, 2007, 19:15:

Another Tidbit I travel quite a bit and usually with AA inside the US and outside (including our beloved Colombia of course). In addition to the two checked bags and carry-on, remember that you can bring one carry-on personal item. The carry-on personal item I bring is a computer backpack when I'm traveling heavy. This holds quite a bit in addition to my laptop. I typically have a couple of books, my electronics, small assortment of clothes. You have to not mind the shoulder weight, though.

Good luck and stay within the airlines size and weight or be willing to pay the price penalty. (seems they pay closer attention to the weight than the size in my experiences but I've been bit both ways)

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goin_south says on Apr 6, 2007, 20:17:

Hey Captain H Maybe I missed something along the way in all your posts, but...
Are you going to meet one person? a lady, I presume. How is your spanish? Is your final destination Bogota? or, other city?

Keep in mind, what they are telling you: Make sure, on your return, that you've got a couple hundred usa dollars, or the equivalent in Pesos in your pocket, just in case (you think they're screwing ya somewhere along the way of getting all checkedn in - you're probably right; they are.) Both times leaving Cali, on American Airlines both times I think, it was cool; no problems. Leaving Medellin last September... even with my gf, who usually makes sure we get a low-down good deal, looking out for and with me, I still think they took advantage of me, and that was leaving on Avianca

I guess there's an extra price to pay for the WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL STEWARDESSES ;)

Why Colombianitas? Personally... I just don't like pink areolar tissue.

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Buongone says on Apr 6, 2007, 21:19:

Captain HOWDY !! Seems to me that if I remember correctly you are just going to be down there for 2 weeks. Two suitcases will hold alot of chit man. Don't overpack. You probably won't wear 2/3 of it. If you want to most airlines will let you check your bag. Then put a small lock on it. Or a plastic wire tie. That way you are not lugging alot of chit around that you don't need. Carry on your computer.Camera, jewerly, money and important papers. As far as having duplicate copies of your passport. When going out somewhere. Like out for the day/night. Leave the original passport with/at your friends parents house. If it's safe there? Then if something happens, you only lose your photo copy of your passport. Is what I do. I make a copy of my passport. I laminate it with lamination paper. It needs to be just alittle bigger than a regular passport. I've had them question it in the states. Saying they don't take copies of passports the same size. I've been through a few checkpoints down there. It always works with the Colombian Police. Now if you fly somewhere by all means carry your original with you. Been to Colombian a bunch of times. And you know what? i watch out for pickpockets more at the Miami Airport than I do anywhere else. If in doubt, carry the laminated photo copy in a check cover in your front pocket.

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goin_south says on Apr 6, 2007, 21:52:

(((i watch out for pickpockets more at the Miami Airport)))

You must be a real good target, Buongone.

On the other hand, I guess I must walk around Miami (or, any other)airport with the look of: "if you touch me or bump me, I'm gonna foqn knock you on your ass."

I slept on the floor for a few hours and in the chairs, in Miami airport without problems.

Why Colombianitas? Personally... I just don't like pink areolar tissue.

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Buongone says on Apr 6, 2007, 22:07:

No Target. I've been in a lot of big airports. The 1st time I was in Miami. It as raining and all the planes seemed to land at once. The friggin baggage area was wall to wall people. just did not feel comfortable there the 1st time. When alot of people around, I just like to be sure/safe. Alot of people = pickpockets!!

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goin_south says on Apr 6, 2007, 22:15:

one time = lots of people, not = pickpockets. I think you were a bit paranoid. Foq! They all probably were lookin out for you, too.

Why Colombianitas? Personally... I just don't like pink areolar tissue.

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miamimike says on Apr 6, 2007, 22:56:

Miami Airport has one of the Worst Reputations in the USA as far as Airports. The MIA Baggage Handlers(in the cargo area the public doesn't see) were Videotaped secretely going through the Passeneger's Bags stealing bigtime and more then once. Its an ongoing problem at MIA. Security is poor as it was shown on TV here many workers skirting the Secure areas without proper security credentials. Why do you think 9/11 Terrorist Hijacker Muhammed Atta entered the USA thru MIA?? He knew security was a Weak link at MIA and exploited it! Large groups of MIA Workers several times were fired/jailed for having Fake Documents, SS Numbers ect over the last few years..The Boss at the Fuel Tank Farm here in MIA was charged with running a scam deal selling large amounts of Fuel to his buddies for next to nothing prices and reselling it outside for huge profits. MIA has a culture of Corruption surrounding it from Top(airport director)to bottom(baggage handlers) and for this reason, many local passengers in the know are flying out of Ft. Lauderdale to avoid the hassle and possibility of stolen items and/or luggage. Never leave a Bag un-attended for long at MIA or it'll get "Legs" and walk on you if you get my drift,,,

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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Man Tequila says on Apr 6, 2007, 23:07:

Airlines are funny things. After three trips to Colombia, with much internal travel, I've never had a problem with Avianca, AA or Continental. Winked at when a little over the limit, never been searched, polite service, no delays.

Airlines make A LOT of extra money from passangers who do flout the limits, and have every incentive to charge you surprising fees for shlepping too much stuff. I've been okay, but best you get a second smaller case and divide your stuff,

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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miamimike says on Apr 6, 2007, 23:14:

A few years back at MIA if you had extra and were headed to Santo Domingo, DR you could buy a long large black bag known as a "Gusano"(worm in spanish)right at the MIA airport for $15 and long as the weight didn't exceed 70 pounds you could use this as one of your checked bags. I swear these "Gusanos" expanded to 6 feet long like a Huge Fat Worm and Domincans crammed them full of items of all descriptions. Seemed the actual size dimensions did not matter as long as the weight didn't exceed 70 pounds.

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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goin_south says on Apr 7, 2007, 00:17:

I put those little gold 'american touristor' locks on my bags going thru Miami, and still ... never a problem. but, I don't doubt what you are saying.

Why Colombianitas? Personally... I just don't like pink areolar tissue.

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 7, 2007, 09:25:

Cool... I'm planning a trip to Manizales/Pereira to visit my friend/girlfriend for about 1 month. We're not going to get married or anything like that as she has 2 kids and her parents live there and so on. I'm going to hang out during the day while she works, we'll go out when she gets off work and I'll be all like a tourist because she knows all the good, scenic places. On the weekend we'll be with her parents and kids.
As for the luggage, I'm guessing my 96 in perimeter is a bit in excess of the 62 in perimeter maximum. LOL I'll be buying 2 smaller suitcases and a carry-on for my cameras and such. I will copy my passport in larger size and laminate it. What other documents do I need to make copies of besides my passport? Cargo shorts have buttons and zippers on the pockets so that helps discourage pickpockets. Also, I am planning on putting green plastic zip ties on the luggage zippers to secure them and immediately alert me that my bags have been opened.
I, too, am paranoid/careful about pickpockets. If untucked, my shirt will hang down low enough to cover my rear pocket and I'm forever checking for my wallet at the slightest contact. When possible, I stand against a wall. I guess I've seen too much tv!!!
And, one more thing. Where should I expect to have to pay a little bit extra at the counter (being ripped off?) Bogota, Mexico City, or DFW? Those are the 3 cities I'll be passing through.

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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poco says on Apr 7, 2007, 13:23:

Everything You Wanted to Know :) The proud bird with the Golden Tail

Reminds me of a stewardess named Linda Golden Tail.

Contiental Airline Rules Probably other airlines have similar web pages.

Higher class passengers have higher "free" limits. It pays to have some class.

Economy Class General:
Two Checked bags when traveling from U.S. to Colombia. 50 pounds each. (Embargos may apply for excess baggage)
If they are over 50 up to 70 the cost is $25 each.
No bag OVER 70 pounds is accepted as checked luggage.
ONE carry on and ONE personal item. A computer case is considered a personal item.

How big is your bag

I think items over 70 pounds and up to ???? will be checked as FREIGHT. My guess is you will then need to take them to another window.

I'd suggest weighing your bags before taking them to the airport.

E-Bay ad says this is the Largest size allowed on airlines

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

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Buongone says on Apr 7, 2007, 16:02:

Extra Charges Never departed Colombia thru Bogota. Always Cali. Depending who you are flying with, the charges depend on that. With Avianca I had to go upstairs to some room and pay like $20. I believe it's the Dian/Customs. Now with AA, I just went and got a slip from them at a counter downstairs. Did'nt have to pay anything. Believe it was included in the ticket. It kinda like a exit fee.

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 7, 2007, 20:08:

Sounds good... Lots of good advice but I'll go to the airline webpages and get the specifics on luggage size and weight. I'm sure they all differ a bit and are enforced differently as well.
My spanish differs between speaking and understanding when hearing it spoken. I can express myself much better than I can listen and understand. My lady friend speaks about 20% english and I speak about 20% spanish so I think we're ok...We chat pretty regularly for hours at a time....Have I mentione that I'm stoked about this trip????

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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goin_south says on Apr 7, 2007, 23:52:

C.H.... Where should I expect to have to pay a little bit extra at the counter (being ripped off?) Bogota, Mexico City, or DFW????

Who knows, Captain? Tell us upon return!
Expect the Best; be prepared for the worst.

It might be a good idea to also 'copy and laminate' your driver's license, also. I always give my 'stuff' of importance, keys, wallet, passport...to my gf. They probably aren't going to be hassling her, and no way she's letting anyone take off with that purse full of _______. jajaa..

Fact is, Captain, no one has ever hassled me, either. But, I think if you gotta carry your wallet, maybe the front pockets are better. And, I think your "Two Smaller Suitcases" idea is a good one. Don't break your back while travelin.

Why Colombianitas? Personally... I just don't like pink areolar tissue.

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coffee beaner says on Apr 8, 2007, 00:20:

One of the things I love about flying to Colombia is that they actually give you food, unlike when you fly to California... just peanuts or a little bag of pretzels. NYC - L.A. 5 and half hours, NYC - Medellin about the same.... whats up with that???

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rocinante says on Apr 8, 2007, 18:15:

Whats up with that? International vs. Domestic

"World economic indicators point to a democrat winning 2008. It will surely be Obama. Not that the US president actually runs the US." Feb 5, 2008

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coffee beaner says on Apr 8, 2007, 18:33:

nah.. about 5 years ago they gave food during flights from NYC - L.A., now you have to pay during the flight to get a meal. doesn't make sense even if its a domestic flight since its the same amount of flight time, are you saying that the $300 extra you pay for a flight to Colombia covers for that meal??? thats ridiculous!!!!

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rocinante says on Apr 8, 2007, 19:07:

Yeah but uh.... That $300 also covers a free drink as well.

"World economic indicators point to a democrat winning 2008. It will surely be Obama. Not that the US president actually runs the US." Feb 5, 2008

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coffee beaner says on Apr 8, 2007, 20:00:

hahaha true true
hahaha true true

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elmodefoque says on Apr 9, 2007, 07:38:

Don’t be too quick to demand more luggage allowance from your airlines. I was so happy when Avianca told me that on my direct flight from NYC to Barranquilla I’m only allowed 1 bag , no more than 50 pounds. I still think that’s too much luggage!! they should allow us only one carried one, that;s it!
For my gringo buddies meeting that nice cachaca girlfriend in Colombia for the first time after masturbating in front of the computer for so long must be a very exciting and happy experience. You bring your girl a couple gifts and don’t forget la maldita vija y el maldito Viejo.
Well, let me warn you, in your next trip every modefoque in the family is gonna ask you to bring this, bring that; even the cousin’s girlfriend is gonna ask for the latest Nike sneakers. You gonna need like four 70 pound big ass luggage to carry that entire chit and let’s not even discuss how much money this is gonna cost you.
Not to look cheap, you tell them I’m allowed one bag, enough for my chit and a gift for my beloved Maria Conchita. I love to bring you all gifts but I can’t, sorry!!!
That’s exactly what I tell my family. You know what I bring my family NOTHING, DIDLY SQUAT, JAC CHIT!!!!!
I invite them all to the house and I treat them to 50 mil pesos worth of chicharron.

I'll get there, when I get there!

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griffbos says on Apr 9, 2007, 09:48:

Avianca I usally fly Avianca into Colombia they allow 2 checked bags 50lbs each there is a size compent also and not sure what it is it could be what your agent stated, you can also bring one carry on bag and one personal bag( ie pocketbook, small bag) but their combined weight should not exceed 23lbs I think is still the limit. Basically all the airlines last Nov. dropped the wieghts of checked bags slightly increased the carry on limit, most also reduced the charge for overages . I am told Avianca is pretty strict with there limits, I have never had a hard time thou.

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 9, 2007, 10:21:

AA Well, I just called American Airlines and the size regulation was 62 in. This is the sum of the length, width, and heighth. I went to avianca.com but there are no numbers to call on the website. You can only make reservations from the page. That's weird....But griffbos just listed the luggage regulations for Avianca. I guess I'm good to go now on that topic. I'm sure I'll have other questions for you guys later...Thanks your help...again...

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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miamimike says on Apr 9, 2007, 10:44:

Captain Howdy-here are the Numbers,,, 1-800-284-2622. The local number is 305-599-7200(local ticket office--8125 NW 53st-Miami)its down off the Palmetto Expy not far from Servientrega's Office(like next door). There is a reason their numbers were not listed on their Website, I'll let others come up with a reason why it wasn't listed,,,LOL

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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CaptainHowdy says on Apr 9, 2007, 11:00:

Got it! Thanks, Miamimike...I just called the number you listed and there is a 55 lbs weight limit and a 62 in limit (length + width + heighth). There is a $25 fee from 55 - 70 lbs.
I also discovered I didn't find a number on the website because their home page is not aviancaairlines.com, it's just avianca.com. I think there a bottled water brand called avianca so I typed in "airlines" to distinguish the airline from the bottled water company.a
I listened to the annoying pre-recorded message and one of the options was, "for the southeast region, press ##" and "for the northeast region, press ##." I couldn't help but wonder, southeast/northeast region of WHAT!!! France? The States? The world? Just a little chuckle there...

Teaching preteens the things they need to know!

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miamimike says on Apr 9, 2007, 11:06:

Captain Howdy I went first to Avianca.com and at the bottom of their Webpage where it says contact us, at this link, no phone number shows up,,,

http://avianca.com/

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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Man Tequila says on Apr 9, 2007, 13:22:

Also, if you fly Continental/Copa, WATCH OUT for their luggage embargoes that seem to affect most of their flights not to Brazil or Buenos Aires. Their website gives the list of routes affected, but most of them seem to be. Including Bogotá all year round and Calí during high season.

http://www.continental.com/web/en-US/content/travel/baggage/embargo.aspx?SID=9D1598FBFF014D63B6DE307D844A16D7

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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