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Choice Humanitarian Travel News

Choice Humanitarian: Brandon’s Story

Every year, Christopherson Business Travel sponsors an volunteer trip for a selected group of employees. An NGO working in seven countries, Choice Humanitarian is driven to end extreme poverty. The employees volunteering this year ventured to a small village in Guatemala. There, they helped build in-home stoves and paint community buildings. As a corporate sponsor and long-time supporter, these annual trips are just one of the many avenues in which Christopherson cooperates with Choice Humanitarian.

Brandon’s volunteer experience

Going on the CHOICE Humanitarian expedition to Guatemala was an experience that ingrained itself in my life from the moment I got off the plane. We landed, made it through customs.  While waiting for our bus, we were greeted by a panhandler asking for $2 (although it was never clear if he was hoping for $2 or just 2 quetzales, the currency in Guatemala). The ability to convert currency on the fly became an immediate trait that one had to adapt to quickly. Then a young man and his elementary school aged brother helped load our luggage, and asked for 3 quetzales—roughly $0.40. It was then that it really became apparent to me that we were in a third world country.
Aside from the poverty, run down city, and areas that you would never dare venture into at night, Guatemala had some of the most beautiful countryside I’ve ever seen. Of course, having the chance to travel with and help CHOICE made the trip most appealing.

Meeting the villagers and getting to experience their customs and way of life has forever changed my views on extreme poverty. It also helped me to conclude that, if you are thinking about, or have ever wondered if you should participate in one of these expeditions, the answer should be a big YES. The people I met and the friendships I developed are ones I will cherish for a lifetime.
See more of Brandon’s team’s photos here and pictures from previous expeditions.

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Business Travel

Flying First-Class – Worth the Extra Cost?

As a frequent business traveler, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by airline upgrades before. But recently, flying from Denver to Seattle, I received a complimentary round-trip upgrade to First Class!  Having never flown premium before, I was excited to take advantage of the opportunity.  Along with the comfy seat at the front of the plane, I didn’t realize first class came with additional perks before you even enter the plane.

Surprising First Class inclusions:

  • Pre-flight: priority counter access at check-in; increased baggage allowance; priority baggage tagging; premium line access through TSA security; and priority boarding.
  • Flight: blanket/pillow/bottle of water waiting at your seat; dedicated overhead bin space; in-seat power outlet and increased seat recline; attentive service from a cabin-specific attendant; drinks in real glassware (alcoholic and non-alcoholic); meal and snack selection.
  • Post-flight: ability to get off of the plane first; priority baggage claim delivery.

Since I did not have to pay extra for the upgrade, its tough to say whether or not its worth the extra cost. What I will say is that the increased seat comfort, extra overall space/legroom, and additional attention from airline staff certainly reduced my usual travel fatigue.  When I arrived at both my destinations, I felt stress-free and energetic!  It’s the type of feeling that I certainly wouldn’t mind enjoying again on a long international flight!  In fact, if the airlines are reading this blog, please know that I would gladly enjoy a complimentary opportunity on any future flight!

Christopherson Business Travel is an award-winning corporate travel management company. With more than 60 years of experience, we solve our client’s problems with  superior mobile travel technology and individualized customer support. Contact us to learn more about what sets us apart.