Destinations
In Jordan, a Community Disrupted Awaits Travel’s ReturnTrying my best not to make a mess, I devoured the chocolate-drizzled, walnut-topped qatayef and instantly felt better about the wet, wintery day. In Jordan and throughout the Middle East, these palm-sized semolina pancakes are typically only popular during the holy month of …
7 Reasons Why This Sunny Spanish City Is Perfect For Solo Travelers
Sevilla, Spain is one of the best destinations in Europe for solo travelers. I spent several weeks in Sevilla as a solo traveler, and I've been hoping to return ever since! It was one of my favorite cities in Europe as a solo traveler, as someone who's visited 30+ …
Which Popular European Destination Has the Worst Pickpocketing?
Pickpocketing may only be considered a petty theft, but it has the potential to ruin any traveler’s vacation. While travelers could just lose some extra cash, thieves can also take more important items like passports or expensive jewelry. By now, most people are …
How Marseille Found It's Magic
have a hazy memory of being six and driving through the centre of Paris with some family friends. Cars honked at us, people shouted; one elderly man even shook his fist at me. I turned to my mum next to me on the back seat. ‘We have a Marseille number …
9 Places to See the Summer Olympics Without Setting Foot in Paris
For sports fans, Paris will be the center of the universe this summer — and with 15 million Olympic and Paralympic visitors expected, it will feel like it, with crowds and high prices. But Paris isn’t the only Olympic site in France: Nine destinations outside …
Tours and Activities
Exploring Alaska’s Epic National ParksWith vast wilderness making up most of the state, Alaska’s parks and outdoor spaces take center stage for most visitors. Alaska is home to about 60% of the total national park land in the US, covering 56 million acres. Of the eight Alaska national parks, only a few …
Six Flags Updates Mobile App with Planning Tools, Digital Wallet, and More
Six Flags' mobile app is getting a makeover. From pre-planning tools to the in-park experience, the “groundbreaking enhancements” strive to “improve guest experience and streamline park operations,” Six Flags Entertainment Corporation shared with Travel …
The 50 Best Bars in North America Were Just Announced
Since 2022, when World's 50 Best first began ranking North America’s 50 Best Bars, New York City and Mexico City have vied for the top spot. Always the bridesmaid, CDMX's Handshake Speakeasy has earned second place for the last two years in a row (first …
The Best Beach in the U.S Is This Southern California Gem
Dive In Travel, a travel guide and review site, has recently announced Venice Beach, California, as the top U.S. beach to visit this spring. Famed for its golden sands and active cultural environment, Venice Beach is also a hub for outdoor pursuits and creative …
How to Book a Rocket Ride: Advice From a Space Travel Agent
So you want to go to space? Great! We’re fortunate to live in a time when that’s possible, at least for those with a gigantic pile of disposable income. As with any travel experience, there are two questions to ask yourself: What’s your budget, and how do you …
Cruise
America’s Cruise Line Has Gone Italian — Or Has It?"I could really go for another slice of pizza," I thought, as I eyed the gelato along the Lido Deck's outdoor piazza and hummed, "That's Amore" — a tune that has seemed to play on repeat since I boarded Carnival Firenze four days ago. When I first heard …
After 20 Ocean Cruises, I Took My First River Cruise—Here’s How It Was Better
In 1995, when I was a freshman in college, my parents first introduced me to cruising. I absolutely loved waking up each morning on a new Caribbean island, and I thoroughly enjoyed the nonstop array of activities to keep me busy on our floating hotel. In my …
Norovirus Outbreaks Hit Two Cruise Ships, Plus Germany and California
Last week, the Department of Transportation provided passengers with reasons to celebrate by introducing new policies addressing delays and cancellations. However, amid this positive news, there were concerning reports in the travel space: primarily norovirus …
Can I Take a Mobility Device on a Cruise? What You Should Know.
Chris Ricci can walk only short distances at a time, but he has traveled the world on his scooter. The 57-year-old U.S. Army veteran has limited mobility stemming from a foot injury he sustained in the 1980s and related complications has found cruises an …
Carnival Cruise Crew Member Airlifted from Ship While at Sea
While no one expects to become ill during their cruise vacation, or while working aboard a cruise ship, sometimes these things just happen. Luckily, cruise ships are equipped with their own mini urgent cares. But sometimes, passengers or crew members end up …
Transportation
A New Black-Owned Flight School Is Making Waves in the Race for More Minority PilotsGwinnett County, in Atlanta, Georgia, officially has its first Black-owned flight school, joining a nationwide effort to increase the number of minority pilots. Look Up Flight Academy, owned by Mike Ojo, is a much-needed opportunity for aspiring minority aviators …
Are Your Flights Going to Take Off on Time This Summer?
A record 4.7 billion people are expected to travel by air this summer and several factors may converge to create chaos at the country’s airports. A recent report from global travel technology company Amadeus found that “flight disruption remains above …
Southwest Passengers Now Get a $75 Voucher for Big Flight Disruptions
Southwest Airlines has launched a new compensation fund for inconvenienced fliers, offering $75 vouchers to passengers whose flights are significantly delayed or canceled for a reason within the airline’s control. The compensation fund is part of the airline’s …
A Guide to the Department of Transportation's Airline Refund Rules
The Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a new rule last week detailing when airlines owe travelers a refund and how they have to pay. But like all good things, it comes with a few caveats. Under the new rules, all airlines in the United States will now be …
Four-Day Strike at London Heathrow Begins, to Little Effect, and Two Others Canceled
More than 300 union members are on strike at London Heathrow, but local media reported few issues at the airport today. UK Border Force workers have begun a four-day strike scheduled to run from April 29 to May 2, which they said would “disrupt …
Lodging
Romer House Waikiki Is Cute, Affordable and Near All the ActionA slew of exciting new hotels have been popping up in Honolulu — and starting June 1, there will be a new lifestyle hotel in the heart of one the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Here's a first look at Romer House Waikiki. An adults-only hotel, this Romer …
7 of Europe’s Most Amazing Tree House Stays for Families
Get back to nature with these incredible treehouses in Europe, perfect for a family adventure in the woodland. When was the last time you climbed a creaky ladder and found peace amongst the treetops? If the answer is decades ago, then now could be the …
Glamping With the Stars
As I exited Harry Reid International Airport on a bright March afternoon, my hand flew up to protect my eyes, which had grown accustomed to the dull light of a long, gray Tennessee winter. I’d headed west for the sun, but even more so for the night sky, so I …
You Can Still Book These Mother’s Day Hotel Packages for a Relaxing Getaway
Arguably, no one deserves to be spoiled more than Mom, and what's more special than a weekend away with daughters, sons or multiple generations, or even a solo trip? This Mother's Day, dozens of fabulous hotels and resorts in the U.S., Mexico and the …
Hotel Vs. Airbnb In Rome: Let Me Tell You The Pros Vs. Cons
Rome requires traveler passports for hotel & Airbnb check-ins, unlike in the US. Be prepared for strict regulations when traveling. Hotels may be more convenient in Rome due to designated parking & easier check-ins compared to Airbnb. Airbnb rentals in Rome …
Other and Odd
How to Use AI to Plan Your Next Vacation and What You Should Know FirstWhere should I go on vacation this summer? The question is simple enough, but the possibilities are endless. “Feeling adventurous or more like chilling by the beach with a drink in hand?” Layla replies to narrow the list. Chilling by the beach sounds nice. “Alright, for that laid-back …
This Banned Drink Is Making a Comeback
We’d just wrapped up an epic, authentic lunch in Bogota’s famed La Perseverancia Market. I was ready to start walking off my arepas, ajiaco, and aguardiente shots when a young man selling bottles from a small cart caught my eye. “Maria, what’s that over …
The Best Destinations for Sustainable Travel
When it comes to sustainability, travel can feel like a double-edged sword. On one hand, exploring the world helps to cultivate empathy towards new cultures and can lead to radical change. On the other, the potential emissions from hopping on a plane and …
The Real-Life Island That Inspired the World’s Oldest Travel Story
Travel writer Laura Coffey was so inspired by Homer's 3,000-year-old poem that it sparked a fascination with ancient Greek myths and legends. She set off on her own epic adventure to discover the modern destinations behind The Odyssey, the real places …
Planning Your Summer Travel? Here’s How to Save Some Money
If you're booking your trip 21-60 days out, you might save around 15%. Traveling in August instead of June can also help you save …
Press Releases of Interest
Michael Brown Joins Travel Answers as National Account Sales ManagerBellevue, WA, April 1, 2024 - Luxury global travel wholesaler Travel Answers, comprising the brands of Down Under Answers, Africa Answers, Asia Answers, Travel2 and Islands in the Sun, has announced a …
Travelers Can Save up to $400 on Select Collette’s ‘Netherlands, Belgium & France’ Explorations Tour Departures
Pawtucket, RI (April 24, 2024) – Travelers can save up to $400 on select departures on Collette’s “Netherlands, Belgium & France” Explorations tour. North America’s longest-running tour operator’s …
Avanti Celebrates National Travel Advisor Month With Gift Card for Each Land Booking Of $5,000 or More Made in May
Portland, OR, April 23, 2024 – In honor of National Travel Advisor Month 2024, independent travel specialist Avanti Destinations is offering a $25 gift card for each FIT* land booking of $5,000 or more …
Booking Is Open for Collette’s All-New ‘Historical Greenbrier Holiday’ Tour
Pawtucket, RI (April 10, 2024) – Collette reminds travelers that booking is now open for its brand new “Historical Greenbrier Holiday” tour. Two departures for the eight-day experience are available …
American Cruise Lines Announces American Patriot & American Pioneer New Ships in the Project Blue Fleet
Guilford, CT—April 8, 2024— American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce two more new small ships coming in 2025, American Patriot and American Pioneer. These 125-passenger sister ships represent …
Mike's Morning Missives
And That’s a Wrap2019 is just about yesterday’s news. I don’t want to use a beat up worn-torn saying but I will: “Where has the time gone?” I also refuse to suggest that you have a Happy New Year. I’d rather remind you that time waits for nobody, and whether your New Year will be happy or not is entirely up to you. As I look down the barrel of another year I see an empty slate. Yesterday’s news is exactly that… yesterday’s news. Not a single evening news program goes by without…
Mike’s 1-Minute Marketing Memos
Woulda-Coulda-ShouldaDon’t allow yourself to fall victim to this behavior: I would’ve done it if I had more money. I could’ve tried if I had more time. I should’ve called them but … This happens more often than not, when you get an idea and fail to act on it. This simply does not have to happen. Once you have an idea for a notion to do something, do it. Don’t think it to death. And don’t procrastinate until you forget what it is you were going to try.
Luxury Travel Tips
Elvis Has Left the BuildingNot long after starting my training firm, The Wealthy Travel Agent, I received a call from my friend Richard Earls, publisher of Travel Research Online (TRO), asking if I would write a column on luxury travel. I immediately agreed. Over time, it morphed into one that advocated sound sales-based business practices with luxury travel as the product of choice – but could be applied to any model. I don’t want to be that person who overstays their welcome.
Departures
Unveiling Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand HillsRwanda. The Land of a Thousand Hills and the horrific genocide of 1994. One of the most rapidly developing countries in Africa, where one-quarter of the population is still illiterate. A country with many faces which, after years of turmoil, has risen and is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination.
Spotlight
New Short Break Tours in Australia’s Red Centre Ideal for Travel AgentsAAT Kings has announced two new short break tours in Australia’s majestic Northern Territory, presenting travel agents with exciting new packaged offerings. Lasting 3-4 days, these immersive experiences balance efficient travel with in-depth discovery of Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and Kings Canyon.