Destinations
The 6 Best Road Trips to Explore GermanyBirthplace of the autobahn, Germany is a wonderful country for driving tours. It’s big and varied enough to allow longer, more ambitious trips, yet has plenty of small, distinctive regions begging for in-depth exploration. Throw in a superb road network (including over 13,000km of …
A Full Throttle Weekend Guide to Miami
Pietro Fittipaldi is racing royalty and the first Fittipaldi heir to be born and raised in Miami. Here are his picks for enjoying his hometown, during F1 season and beyond. Primarily known for its glorious weather, luscious beaches and vibrant nightlife, Miami has also established …
In Jordan, a Community Disrupted Awaits Travel’s Return
Trying 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 …
Tours and Activities
These Are The Top 5 Destinations For Unforgettable Train Journeys in EuropeWhile there’s no shortage of stunning places around the world that have embraced and perfected the concept of rail travel, there’s just a special type of charm to a European train ride. Be it the movies we’ve seen or just the fact that it’s hard to come across another continent …
The Ultimate Guide to Magic Kingdom, According to Disney Experts
When the Magic Kingdom opened its gates on Oct. 1, 1971, it became an iconic place to not only see favorite Disney characters but to experience innovative attractions and visit lands carefully crafted to transport guests to another time or place. No trip to Walt Disney World …
Exploring Alaska’s Epic National Parks
With 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 …
Cruise
Cunard Queen Anne News: Cunard's New Ship Arrives to SouthamptonCunard’s fourth ship, Queen Anne, arrived in her homeport of Southampton yesterday, accompanied by a water cannon salute. The 3,000-passenger ship is staying in the city for two nights before embarking on her maiden voyage Friday to Lisbon. Queen Anne is the first new …
HX ESG Report Reveals Cruise Line Reduced Emissions by 18 per Cent in 2023
Expeditions cruise line HX has published its latest Environmental, Social and Governance report, revealing the progress of its sustainability initiatives. According to the report, HX reduced Scope 1 emissions per available guests night by 18 per cent between 2022 and 2023, despite …
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 …
Transportation
A Snake on a Bullet Train in Japan Caused a 17-Minute Delay for Over 600 PassengersA small serpent caused a substantial delay on one of Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains, shaking up the country’s typically timely rail service routine. More than 600 passengers experienced the unusual interruption when the 16-inch snake was discovered on a train traveling from …
What Happens When an Airline You’ve Booked Goes out of Business?
Earlier this week, Australian low-budget airline Bonza entered voluntary administration, meaning they appointed an external administrator in case of financial distress. The airline canceled all flights, stranding passengers across Australia. It’s not the first airline to go belly up with no …
A New Black-Owned Flight School Is Making Waves in the Race for More Minority Pilots
Gwinnett 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 …
Lodging
Airbnb Adds Once-In-A-Lifetime Stays Category and Easier Group Booking ToolsAirbnb's latest update is here, and it will have guests staying in awe-inspiring Airbnbs and making it easier than ever to plan a trip with friends. Over the years, Airbnb has been known to create some of the wildest once-in-a-lifetime guest experiences, from spending the night …
Go Glamping At These 7 National Parks
Glamping combines luxury with nature, offering a glamorous way to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Glamping options range from cabins to treehouses, allowing travelers to enjoy national parks with resort-like amenities. Glamp in iconic US national parks like …
Romer House Waikiki Is Cute, Affordable and Near All the Action
A 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 …
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.