Military Travel

Military travel is a way of life for those serving in our nation's armed forces as tours and assignments take them around the world. However, one of the additional benefits of serving is highly affordable options for leaves and vacations. Each branch of the military has special convenient and inexpensive temporary housing facilities, hotels, guesthouses and resorts around the world that service members can take advantage of. For those service members who have so faithfully defended the country, the accommodations are one way that they can experience God saying, "Come to me, all ye that labour of me... and ye shall find rest unto your souls" (Matthew 11:28).

Various lodging accommodations are offered to armed service and civilian personnel on official order. In additional, lodging services are provided to military retirees and their families, medical patients and their families, and widows and dependents of retired service personnel. There are two general types of lodging available for military travel: on-base lodging and Armed Forces Recreation Centers.

On-base lodging is offered to National Guard and Reserve members in addition to regular service personnel and retirees. On-base lodging is very affordable but available only as space permits. Armed forces recreation centers provide luxurious accommodations and affordable rates in some of the most sought after locations in the world. For example, the military has a resort site within Walt Disney World called Shades of Green. Guests are within walking distance of the park and are afforded transportation and advance entry to many events. Resorts are also located in Hawaii, Tokyo, and worldwide. Each recreation center has its own procedures for reservations and eligibility, so one must reference the resorts website or seek a military travel agent for assistance.

The benefits extend into the commercial arena as well. Travel agents and online travel guides feature a variety of vacation airfare and hotel packages and cruises at a significant discount for armed services personnel. Many airlines, such as American Airlines, have announced significant discounts on airfare for service personnel. Plus, they can find discounted and free admission at a variety of attractions nationwide. Service personnel gain free admission to the Baseball Hall of Fame, free admission to Sea World in many states, and discounts on admission to a variety of other attractions. Many online travel sites list discounts by state and attraction type.

Offering discounts when traveling is a part of the commitment individuals make to serve our nation, so that service personnel can take the rest and relaxation they have earned. Significant military travel discounts and services are available from corporations and the military as a way to say thank you to service members. Each branch of the armed services offer its own unique lodging opportunities and locations. Affordable travel experiences are a reality for savvy travelers knowledgeable about the services available to them.

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