Keyless Mobile Entry Coming to Some Hotels

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Keyless Mobile Entry Coming to Some Hotels

Starting this week some Starwood Hotels and Resorts guests will be able to access their room if they have a smartphone in their hand. On Wednesday, SPG Keyless goes live at Element and W Hotels around the world and is the first keyless entry system for the hotel industry. SPG Keyless, powered by the SPG app, enables guests to bypass the front desk at properties where its available and go directly to their rooms. Guests then unlock their rooms with a simple tap of their smartphones. The system works by SPG guests registering their phones once through the SPG App and allowing push notifications. After booking a reservation at a keyless hotel and approximately 24 hours before arrival, SPG members are invited to opt-in to SPG Keyless. Guests will receive a push notification noting they are checked in and the SPG App will update with their room numbers and Bluetooth keys when rooms are ready. The system will roll out at ten hotels, including Aloft Beijing, Aloft Cancun, Aloft Cupertino, Aloft Harlem, W Doha, W Hollywood, W Hong Kong, W New York-Downtown, W Singapore and Element Times Square. By early 2015 SPG Keyless will be implemented in some 30,000 doors in 150 hotels. One of the world’s largest lock manufacturers, Assa Abloy, created the system. There are also plans to bring the Apple Watch into the keyless entry picture next year.

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Airlines Look at Fingerprint Scans to Screen Flyers

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Airlines Look at Fingerprint Scans to Screen Flyers

Security experts have long predicted that airlines in the future will rely on biometrics, fingerprints or retina scans, to verify the identity of air travelers. In August, Alaska Airlines started to use fingerprint scans to screen fliers at the airline’s four airport lounges, including one at Los Angeles International Airport. After further testing, Alaska officials say they may expand the fingerprint screening to the ticket gate to identify passengers before they board planes. Alaska passenger surveys show that travelers like using fingerprints to get access to the lounges. Expanding the fingerprint screening to gates and ticket counters may be more complicated because it will involve coordinating with the Transportation Security Administration. Alaska Airline travelers who want to use the fingerprint scanners must first register their prints at the lounges. The program began with the lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in August and was expanded to the lounges at LAX, Portland (Oregon) International and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in September.

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Traveling to Australia’s Outback

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Traveling to Australia’s Outback

The Northern Territory is the third largest state in Australia, the least populated and occupies the northern central part of the country. It is also what many consider to be the “Real Outback”, with dramatic landscapes, abundant wartime heritage, rich aboriginal culture, World Heritage listed Kakadu National park, and Uluru (Ayers Rock).

When traveling to the Outback, it is most common to fly into the city of Alice Springs. Flights from Los Angeles or San Francisco fly non-stop to either Sydney or Brisbane, and then connect on to Alice Springs. The entire travel time takes about 20 hours.
The best times of year to travel to this area are April or September – October, when the weather is typically warm and dry. The climate in the Outback is semi-arid with little rain usually falling during the hottest months, which are from October to March. Central Australia receives less than 250 mm of rain per year.

The city of Alice Springs is surrounded by dramatic red desert, and is referred to by locals as the Capitol of the Outback. Some of the most popular activities include mountain-bike riding, four-wheel driving, trekking along the Larapinta Trail, bush camping and swimming in lush waterholes. Some of the top attractions in Alice Springs are:

Alice Springs Desert Park offers the opportunity to discover many of the secrets of the Central Australian deserts, you even have the option to experience desert habitats as they are at night, including animals, in their nocturnal tour. Open year round, except for Christmas day

Alice Springs Reptile Centre is not very big, but it features over 30 species of reptiles, including snakes, lizards and crocodiles. You can even get up close and have a chance to feed some of them. Live shows run a few times daily. Open year round, except for major holidays.

Larapinta Trail is a 155 mile trail that begins just outside of Alice Springs, and runs through red desert, high mountains, and a national park. It can also be hiked in shorter, more manageable sections.

Approximately 270 miles southwest of Alice Springs is where the most famous attraction in the Northern Territory can be found. Uluru / Ayers Rock is located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This famous sandstone monolith stands over 1100 feet high, and is over 500 million years old. The best ways to see this park are via Aboriginal lead walking tours, helicopter tours or on the back of a camel. Make sure not to miss the spectacular Sounds of Silence gourmet dinner under a clear night sky.

For the ultimate journey right through the heart of Australia, take The Ghan train from Alice Springs to Darwin or Adelaide to experience another Australian city.
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Best Places for Fall Foliage in the US

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Best Places for Fall Foliage in the US

Autumn is about to fall upon us in North America once again. The days are getting shorter, and the nights a little colder. In most areas of the country, leaves start turning in mid September; however the first two weeks of October is typically the peak for viewing foliage at its best, when leaves are their most brilliant. However, the amount of rain fall in a year also determines when leaves change and are their most intense.

These are some of the most beautiful places for fall foliage in the country.

Massachusetts features some of the best places for fall foliage; Cape Cod, the Berkshires, and the Mohawk trail are also some of the most popular. Visit a small historic village, small seaside town or beautiful rolling countryside.

Vermont enjoys a longer foliage season than most places, which runs from early September through late October. Vermont features some of New England’s most scenic golf courses, and also offers many fall festivals.

New Hampshire has 14 officially designated scenic drives covering over 900 miles. Drive over one of the states’ 50 covered bridges, or enjoy fall activities such as fall fairs or llama trekking.

Wisconsin offers prime fall color from mid-September through mid-October, and a variety of fall activities such as several fall festivals, corn mazes, resort destinations and beautiful fall drives along the Lake Michigan shoreline or through Kettle Moraine State forest.

Michigan offers many opportunities to view changing scenery and colors. Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest water falls west of the Mississippi, or Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are just a few. There are also a lot of farmers markets and U-pick fruit and vegetable stands throughout the state in the fall.

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Robots Coming to Hospitality Industry

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Robots Coming to Hospitality Industry

Starwood’s Aloft Hotels and cruise company Royal Caribbean recently announced plans to introduce robot helpers to their staff lineup, and it’s possible other hospitality companies follow suit. The Starwood robot, “Boltr,” helps out at the check-in desk, while the Royal Caribbean robot mixes drinks. “This is just another example of how hoteliers explore and experiment with new ways to meet our guests’ needs,” says an American Hotel & Lodging Industry spokesperson.

Although easy to brush off the new technology as a hyped PR play, the announcements do bring up questions about the feasibility of robot intelligence in the service industry and its implications for guests and hotel staff. “There is no question that this is an exciting time in our industry. We applaud Starwood’s program, which follows a long tradition of innovation in our industry,” an American Hotel & Lodging Industry spokesperson says. “This is just another example of how hoteliers explore and experiment with new ways to meet our guests’ needs.”

Unions representing hotel staff, however, seemed less enthused. The New York Hotel Trades Council had no comment about the introduction of the new technology at hotels, but UK workers’ union Unite has called Aloft’s Boltr a “nifty little gimmick.”

 

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Passport Scanning from A Mobile App

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Passport Scanning from A Mobile App

United Airlines has become the first US airline to offer customers the ability to scan passports to check in for international flights via iOS and Android mobile devices. United is offering customers the opportunity to use passport scanning functionality on the airline’s mobile app as the carrier completes testing. Customers may access the passport scanning feature when checking in for international flights in the 24 hours before departure. After initiating the app’s check-in feature, customers will have the option of verifying their existing stored passport data or scanning their passport.

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The app uses the mobile device’s camera feature to capture travelers’ passports, similar to a mobile banking deposit. Jumio Inc., a credentials management company, will then verify the passport for additional security. Once the verification process is complete, customers may obtain a boarding pass. Those requiring additional travel documentation, such as visas, will continue to check in at the airport.

United will collect feedback during the testing phase of passport scanning functionality with the goal of further improving the product and launching additional customer-friendly features utilizing this technology. Last year, United launched its all-new mobile app, and since then more than 13 million customers have downloaded it.

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First Airport to Track Passengers Within Feet

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First Airport to Track Passengers Within Feet

The Helsinki, Finland airport will be the first in the world to track passengers to within feet. The plan is being hailed as a technological breakthrough, and is drawing scrutiny from privacy advocates. The sensors will monitor all mobile phones with Wi-Fi access turned on from parking lot to takeoff, helping to observe crowding and prevent bottlenecks at the two-terminal airport. Passengers opting in through an application will also receive offers from shops and restaurants, as well as gate and flight information. Such systems are being deployed more widely as physical shops seek to remove a disadvantage against online retailers who are more advanced in analyzing the digital traces left by customers.

 

About 150 white boxes the size of a Web router are set up around the airport to collect the unique identifier number called the MAC address from devices searching for Wi-Fi networks. They then scramble the information and send it onward to servers. The complete system, in place by the end of the year, may allow a delicacy shop to alert those walking by about a reindeer jerky offer or tell a traveler to Tokyo that there’s just enough time for sushi before she needs to start walking to the gate.

How to Spend Less on International Travel

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How to Spend Less on International Travel

Many of us are working with reduced budgets in today’s economy. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t still travel internationally. These simple tips can help make your travel dollars go further.

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Travel During Off Season.
This is pretty simple and often the biggest money saver. Do a little research as to when the off season is where you are traveling to before making travel plans. Summer and holiday travel will almost always be the most expensive, while travel during Spring or Fall will often be substantially lower.

Book Your Ticket Early.
If you want to get the best deal on airfare, make sure to purchase your ticket at least a few months in advance. If you have to travel over the holidays, book 3-5 months prior to travel to get the best rates. Last minute tickets often come with hefty price tags.

Use Public Transportation.
Forgo renting a car or booking private transfers. If you are traveling to a big city, most offer various public transportation options and can save you lots in the long run.

Consider Spending some Time in a Hostel.
Hostels aren’t for everyone, but many people do opt to stay in them, especially in Europe. Hostels aren’t just for college students anymore. These days’ people of all ages can be found staying in them, and many offer private or semi-private rooms. Since they cost substantially less then hotels, sometimes spending just a few nights in a hostel and out of the hotel can make your trip more affordable.

Eat Cheap.
The amount of money you spend on food can vary greatly, and can ultimately end up costing you a small fortune if you’re eating at restaurants three times a day. Instead, consider eating just one meal a day at a restaurant, like breakfast or lunch, which is always cheaper than dinner prices. Order the soup from the menu, which is almost always inexpensive, yet healthy and filling. Consider buying some meals from a local supermarket. Often, the deli at a local market can provide you with sandwiches, salads, chips, and beverages for half of what you’d pay if you bought the same meal at a restaurant.

Check on Your Cell Phone Plan.
Many people are not aware that all cellular plans are domestic, and using them internationally can rack up thousands of dollars in fees unknowingly! Make sure to check with your cell phone carrier prior to traveling abroad if you plan on bringing your phone, and find out what kind of international plans they offer.

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Electronics Checks Coming to US Airports Soon

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Electronics Checks Coming to US Airports Soon

A new requirement is going into effect soon for U.S.bound fliers at overseas airports. Turning on electronics to show that the devices aren’t bombs is being expanded to certain passengers on domestic flights. A limited number of travelers in U.S. airports selected for extra screening will have their devices checked too. The checks at U.S. airports won’t apply to every flier and will be used more sparingly than at overseas airports.

Other procedures being implemented overseas, including different kinds of pat-downs and shoe checks, won’t be brought to U.S. airports. Added checkpoint procedures have the potential to create airport delays. During the new security examinations, screeners may ask that owners power up some devices, including mobile phones. Devices selected for this screening that can’t turn on won’t be permitted to board. British Airways also warned transfer travelers not to deplete power on devices during the first part of their journey because of these new checks.

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Major Airlines Reduce the Size of Carry-On’s Allowed

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According to Airfarewatchdog, your carry-on bag probably won’t fit on most major US airlines anymore. The overhead bin just got a little less full, but the cost will likely be coming out of flyers’ wallets. American, Delta, and United Airlines have all recently reduced the size of bags permitted as carry-on luggage. Previously, the industry standard measured 22in x 15in x 9in. Now, those dimensions run 22in x 14in x 9in. That is a change of 1 inch in width. Some passengers have been told it is a new FAA regulation. But sizes vary on airlines, so it’s always a good idea to check the allowed sizes of the airline you are using. Jet Blue and Southwest Airlines have much friendlier carry-on policies, each allowing bags up to 24in x 16in x 10in.

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Airlines Improving on Lost and Damaged Luggage

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Airlines Improving on Lost and Damaged Luggage

The number of bags delayed, damaged or lost by airlines has decreased by more than half since the airline industry hit a low point for lost luggage six years ago. This happened because of a concerted effort world-wide by airlines and airports to fix a major inconvenience for travelers. Last year airlines mishandled 21.8 million bags, or 6 per 1,000 passengers, according to SITA, an aviation communications and technology company that tracks baggage performance each year. That’s well less than half the rate in 2007, when airlines world-wide mishandled 46.9 million bags, or 18.88 per 1,000 passengers. Lost baggage was costing the airline industry $4 billion a year at that time. Repatriating delayed or lost luggage to passengers cost an average of $100 per bag, and there had been a steady increase in the frequency of mishandled baggage until then.

 

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One big factor for the long-term change in the U.S. is that airlines realized when they started charging fees for baggage, customer expectations would raise. Airlines typically spent as little as possible on baggage handling before fees because it didn’t drive revenue. Now baggage was bringing in money and new equipment was easier to justify. Bag fees have also reduced the volume of checked baggage, as passengers are carrying more on board. Improving the on-time performance helps too, as flights arrive on-time and handlers have a better chance of connecting bags to the next flight. TSA also moved baggage screening from terminal lobbies, where it manually put bags through giant screening machines, to machines built into conveyor-belt systems that can check bags faster. That really sped up the process of getting bags to airplanes. When bags do go missing, SITA says 81% get delivered to passengers unscathed. Damaged luggage or bags with items pilfered add up to nearly 16% of mishandled bag reports, while bags declared lost or stolen amount to 3% of all mishandled bags. The future is expected to be electronic tags loaded with passenger itineraries that will help further improve reliability.

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Why You Should Be Using A Travel Agent

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Why You Should Be Using A Travel Agent

In the era of technology & taking care of most business online, many travelers have foregone the days of using of a Travel Agent, and instead have began booking all their travels online, with huge online travel companies or the airlines directly.

In some cases, such as a simple non-stop flight within the United States, this is often the quickest and easiest scenario. However, there are many cases where booking your trip with a huge online company may not be to your benefit.

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If you are planning a vacation to a foreign country that you know very little about, it’s probably in your best interest to contact a Travel Agency that specializes in that country. These days, most Travel Agents specialize in a specific country or region of the world, and they can be an abundance of knowledge and information, and very helpful with planning all the details of your vacation, finding the best rates, assisting with travel visa’s, etc.

Also, think of all the time you will save if you use a Travel Agent. Once you have discussed your travel dates, interests and budget with a Travel Agent, you can relax and let them do all the work for you, and rest assured that they will have the knowledge of which hotels and tour companies are more reputable, will give you the best experience and provide more value to you.

The most important reason to book with a Travel Agent is in case a problem or emergency should arise during your trip. Say you booked your trip with one of the huge online companies or directly with the airline. If an emergency, such as a natural disaster, inclement weather or even personal emergency should occur, good luck getting any assistance. You are pretty much on your own. Most airlines have substantially cut back on their customer service staff in recent years.

For those who book with a Travel Agency have the comfort of having a direct phone number and email address to contact their personal Travel Agent for quick and personal support and assistance. Travel Agents are typically able to get in contact with the airlines or rebook flights much quicker than the traveler can.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next vacation!

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Custom Vacations

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WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Your destination of choice
  • Your choice of activities, tours, cruises, etc…
  • Your choice of travel dates
  • Your choice of accommodations (Home stays and bed and breakfast to deluxe waterfront hotels. All at the very best rates.
  • No stress; we put it all together for you!
CONCIERGE-STYLE SERVICE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE

Travel Team agents have been planning independent vacations for the past 35 Years with literally thousands of extremely satisfied customers. Tailor-made itineraries are our specialty.

  • Your Travel Team Specialist will first talk to you about your travel dreams
  • Itinerary will be designed around your vacation time and budget.
  • Your specialist will talk to you about your preferred style of accommodations.  (From Bed and Break Inns or home stays to deluxe hotels
  • They will advise and book the best transportation options between cities via air flights, train, ferry, private driver or self drive (all pre-arranged)
  • They will add activities and free days as desired.
  • The same specialist will handle your vacation from start to finish.
  • We will build a customized package based on exactly what you’d like to experience!

TRIP COMPONENTS

1. Getting There
The Travel Team offers very competitive airfares for most airlines. If you have already purchased air tickets – no problem! Go to the next step…

2. Accommodations
Your Travel Team agent has access to the best rates, giving you thousands of choices. We only rely on hotel reviews from our own clients and our own vast experience, not from third-party web sites.

3. Getting Around
Each country is different. For example, in Australia (which is about the same size as the U.S.) you can rent a car or camper to cover smaller areas, OR travel by air, bus or train for longer trips.

4. Local Tours
We have great contacts for hundreds of different sightseeing and activity options from half-day sightseeing tours to multi-day treks, and from hot-air ballooning to kayaking day trips. Why travel on a 44-passenger bus tour when there is an excellent private minivan tour for the same price? There are over 30 Barrier Reef tours to choose from, but how will you know which one is best? Your Travel Team agent knows the best sightseeing tours as well as fun activities to fit your interests and budget.

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Automated Passport Control Kiosks Now at Two Major Airports

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Automated Passport Control Kiosks Now at Two Major Airports

Earlier this month, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson and Chicago O’Hare, two of the world’s busiest airports, announced the introduction of biometric Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks. APC kiosks offer a cost effective and rapidly deployable means of reducing congestion at international arrivals.

 

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These announcements reflect a decisive global trend towards expediting international airport passengers through rapid adoption of automated border control technology. Acuity Market Intelligence’s latest research “The Global Automated Border Control Industry Report: Airport eGates and Kiosks” projects North American and European airports will drive a global APC Kiosk market of nearly 8,000 units and more than $550 million in revenues by 2018. Currently, less than 400 APC kiosks have been deployed in 13 airports in the US and Canada though North America currently represents 100% of the APC Kiosk market, By 2018, Europe will dominate with 42% market share, while Asia at 24.4% will exceed North America at 16.6%. APC kiosks enable international travelers to rapidly clear passport control by entering their own immigration information. Automating this process via self-service kiosks decreases international arrival wait times by as much as 80% for kiosks users and 50% for all passengers.

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Travel News – May 7, 2014

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Former Pan Am Employees from Around the World to Gather In New York
On July 31 – August 3, 2014 employees, family and friends of America’s most iconic airline, Pan American World Airways (1927-1991) will gather from all over the world on Long Island and New York for Pan Am’s Worldwide Family Reunion celebrating the memory of the pioneering airline and the people that built it. From the first historic Pan American “Flying Boats” that pioneered Trans-Atlantic flights off the nearby shores of Port Washington in Nassau County 75 years ago this year, to the Art Deco delight of Marine Air Terminal at LaGuardia, to the iconic techno-modernist structures of JFK – no other place in the world can compare the indelible marks Pan Am left on it than New York. The Host Hotel for the four day three night weekend is the beautiful Long Island Marriott Uniondale, only minutes from JFK or LGA in Nassau County, an area known as “The Cradle of Aviation”. The event will bring together the largest number of employees representing dozens of bases and positions from every division of America’s iconic aviation company since the closing 23 years ago. The Reunion agenda includes PAA themed Lectures, Tours, Receptions, Presentations & Parties. The reunion highlight will be a Gala Dinner Saturday August 2, 2014 at The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City inside the museums awe inspiring three story glass Reckson Center Atrium. The museums renowned Phillip Stone Catering is even getting into the spirit, serving Pan Am’s famous Cherries Jubilee for dessert.

Phoenix Sky Harbor Offers Two-Mile Fitness Trail
Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport has launched a two-mile walking trail around Terminal 4 that provides travelers with sights of Phoenix seen only from inside the airport, including views of mountains, parks and man-made wonders. The airport has produced a free brochure for the PHX Fitness Trail that features a handy map, points of interest, mileage and photos. The airport has also installed seven free bottle filling stations past security near the entrances to all of the Terminal 4 concourses. The Sky Harbor Fitness Trail complements the city of Phoenix Fit PHX initiative, a comprehensive program intended to get Phoenix residents into better shape. The Fit PHX campaign will help increase Phoenix’s rankings in the American Fitness Index by better connecting the community to city health-related programs and services and by encouraging participation in physical-fitness events and other activities promoting personal wellness.

Disney Unveils Seven Dwarfs Ride at Magic Kingdom
Disney inaugurated what they are calling the “crowning jewel” of the five-year Fantasyland expansion, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train roller coaster. Officially opening to the public on May 28, the Mine Train ride marks the culmination of an overhaul of Fantasyland that more than doubled the size of the themed land at the Magic Kingdom, Disney World’s most visited theme park. Intended to be a focal attraction of the New Fantasyland area, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a family-friendly thrill ride that while full of twists and turns, does not feature any steep drops or dark-and-scary music or scenery. It is largely upbeat, focusing on the sights and sounds of the Disney classic “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Guests board a train of mine cars that soars along the rails through mountainous and forested scenery as they ride in and out of the mine and past the movie’s characters to the soundtrack of some of the film’s famous music, including of course “Heigh-Ho.” In addition to the forward motion, the cars rock back and forth, a new feature for a Disney roller coaster. Guests must meet the 38-inch height requirement to ride. The New Fantasyland is the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom, which opened in 1971.

FAA Computer Malfunction Caused by Data from a Single Plane
The failure of the primary air traffic control system around Los Angeles last week happened because electronic data from a single plane’s flight plan confused the system’s software, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. When that system failed, a backup helped safely guide flights already in the air, but hundreds of planes across the nation headed for Southern California were ordered not to take off Wednesday as an air traffic control facility north of Los Angeles effectively rebooted. The Pentagon confirmed Monday that an Air Force U-2 spy plane was conducting training operations in the area. It is not unusual for a U-2 to operate in the region, and the necessary flight plan had been submitted for the high-flying plane. FAA spokesman Lynn Lunsford would not specify whether the flight plan that caused the issue was that of the U-2. “It was an individual flight plan and the issue had to do with the way it was coded,” he said. Since the incident, the FAA has been analyzing what went wrong with its En Route Automation Modernization system. The computer system, known as ERAM, allows air traffic controllers at several dozen “en route centers” around the country to identify and direct planes at high altitudes. The Los Angeles en route center is located at the Palmdale Regional Airport, about 40 miles north of Los Angeles. It controls high altitude air traffic over southern and central California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah and western Arizona – except airspace designated for military use.

Vancouver to Close Ballantyne Pier
This will be the last year that some cruise lines dock at the Ballantyne Pier. Starting in 2015 all cruise lines will dock at Canada Place. Ballantyne currently handles fewer than 4% of cruise visits and lacks modern capabilities, including shore power. Ballantyne Pier (also called the Ballantyne Cruise Terminal) is a commercial and passenger dock of the Port of Vancouver. The dock was gutted in 1992 and rebuilt after a period of disuse. Modern Teflon sails and steelwork erupt from the original, beautiful Beaux Arts facade. It is now used as an overflow for Cruise Line vessels. Direct to cable TV productions like Captain Courageous have been filmed there, uranium ships and the liberty ship SS Jeremiah O’Brien have docked there. The dock is equipped with two automatic gang-ways and terminal building with baggage handling and customs areas.

News is courtesy of ARTA Online.

Swiss Air is First Certified Allergy-Friendly Airline

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Swiss Air is First Certified Allergy-Friendly Airline

In response to the rise of food intolerances and allergies among consumers, Swiss International Air Lines has announced that it’s become the world’s first certified allergy-friendly airline. Beginning this month, the carrier says it will begin rolling out new products and services to improve the flying experience for allergy sufferers, ranging from the in-flight menu to cabin modifications. While most commercial airlines already offer gluten-free and lactose-free meal options, Swiss has gone a step further in becoming certified by the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation.

 

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“The numbers of people suffering from allergies have been increasing throughout the industrialized world for several years now,” said Torsten Zuberbier, director of the Berlin-based ECARF. In addition to allergy sufferers, consumers with food intolerances and flyers following strict dietary regimes will be able to request gluten-free snacks and meals, as well as lactose-free alternatives like coffee cream and chocolate. The airline will also eliminate decorative flowers and air fresheners, while on-board toilets will now be stocked with soaps that are gentler on the skin.

 

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Travel News – May 1, 2014

Posted by Travel Team

 

 

Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Screen for MERS
On 29 April 2014 health officials in Kuala Lumpur announced that all passengers entering Malaysia through Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang will be subjected to a screening for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus. The respiratory virus, which is similar to SARS, was first reported in Malaysia on 13 April after a man returned from a trip to Saudi Arabia and later died from the disease. The screening will be performed regardless of the passenger’s departure point. According to the World Health Organization, the MERS CoV has infected 238 people globally, resulting in 92 deaths.

Amtrak Starts Trials to Allow Pets on Trains
Earlier this week Amtrak announced a six-month pilot project (PDF release) to allow small dogs and cats aboard its trains between Chicago and Quincy. Their owners will have to pay $25. The test is a partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation and will run from May 5 through Nov. 2. The results of the program will provide a basis for possibly extending the pets-on-trains option nationally. Travel with pets can begin only at stations in Chicago, Naperville and Galesburg, and advance reservations are required. Dogs or cats up to 20 pounds will be accepted in carriers such as those used in airplane cabins and placed at the feet and under the seat of each pet owner on the Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg trains. The trains operate to and from Chicago, La Grange, Naperville, Plano, Mendota, Princeton, Kewanee, Galesburg, Macomb and Quincy. Amtrak already allows service animals on trains at no charge and that policy is unchanged. Amtrak previously allowed pets on trains in the late 1970s, but the animals were relegated to baggage cars, which are not heated or air-conditioned.

Thomas Cook Adds New Flights to Miami and New York
Thomas Cook Airlines will operate a three times a week service to New York from Manchester UK airport from next May. The airline will also start flying to Miami from Manchester twice weekly and said the new Miami route would cater for the family market. The new routes will see the introduction of a new ‘premium service’ across the entire airline’s long-haul routes. Customers will be able to reserve seats in advance and will have priority check-in. The premium offering will include a dedicated cabin team with a new on-demand touch screen in-flight entertainment system being introduced. Thomas Cook has also launched seven summer 2015 brochures including Thomas Cook Signature and Air Tours Holidays which will be on sale from May 1.

AT&T to Launch High Speed 4G in-Flight Connectivity Service
AT&T said “We are building on AT&T’s significant strengths to develop in-flight connectivity technology unlike any other that exists today, based on 4G LTE standards.” They will be competing against GoGo, a much smaller company that offers a similar service. AT&T said it will build an air-to-ground network in the continental U.S., to provide speed and efficient utilization of spectrum already owned by AT&T.

Air Canada to Offer Customers In-Flight Wi-Fi Connectivity Across North America
Air Canada, the first Canadian carrier to offer customers in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity, plans to begin rolling out connectivity across its North American fleet in May under an agreement with Gogo®. The agreement will also provide for future type-testing of Gogo satellite solutions for Wi-Fi on international flights. Air Canada presently has two Wi- Fi-equipped Airbus 319 aircraft operating in Canada and the U.S. and, subject to a final agreement with Gogo, plans to begin outfitting its remaining Airbus A319, A320 and A321 and Embraer 190 fleet types, as well as its Air Canada Express CRJ-705 and Embraer 175 aircraft, with Air-To-Ground Wi-Fi connectivity. The installations are to begin in May with the goal of equipping 29 aircraft in 2014 and a targeted completion date of December 2015 for the designated 130 narrow-body aircraft. The system offers peak connection speeds comparable to mobile broadband services available on the ground. Pricing will be competitive with other in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity offerings. Gogo has also provided Air Canada the opportunity to type-trial two satellite-based systems, using Gogo 2KU and Inmarsat Global Xpress KA-band solutions. These tests are expected to be conducted in 2015. The results will help determine future connectivity options that can be considered as the technology continues to evolve.

Flight Operations at LAX Getting Back to Normal
Flight operations at Los Angeles International and other area airports came to a stop Wednesday afternoon after technical problems at a Southern California control center prompted a temporary grounding of departing flights. At 8.30 pm California time operations resumed and airport authorities released this assessment statement: After completing an assessment of flight operations of the nearly 60 passenger airlines at LAX, LAX Airport Operations reports the following impacts resulting from today’s ground stop through midnight tonight: 27 arriving flights were cancelled, 212 were delayed and 27 diverted to other airports; Departing flights: a total of 23 flights were cancelled and 216 were delayed; No international arriving or departing flights were cancelled. The number of passengers on the 50 total arriving and departing cancelled flights is estimated at nearly 6,800. The FAA said a computer outage forced a halt to departures at airports in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City and other airports out west.

Two Holland America Line Ships Returning to Asia
Starting next winter through spring 2015, Holland America Line will have two ships in the Far East. The 1,432-passenger ms Volendam will sail a series of 14- to 17-day cruises and nonrepeating itineraries, while the 1,404-passenger ms Rotterdam takes an epic 90-day “Passage to the Far East” journey. All of the cruises feature exotic ports of call with extended and overnight stays at some of Asia’s most iconic cities.

News is courtesy of ARTA Online.

Travel News – April 30, 2014

Posted by Travel Team

 

 

 

 

MGM Unveils Expanded Plans for “The Park” in Las Vegas
MGM Resorts International has unveiled expanded plans and the first look at programming for its dynamic park, dining and entertainment district taking shape on the west side of The Strip. Creating an interactive neighborhood environment, The Park will connect New York-New York and Monte Carlo resorts and the new 20,000-seat world-class Las Vegas arena currently in development by MGM and AEG. New York-New York and Monte Carlo both are undergoing significant transformations of their Strip- facing experiences into robust plaza environments featuring casual eateries, bars, restaurants and retail destinations that will ultimately lead to The Park. When it opens in 2016 in conjunction with the arena, The Park will create an immersive outdoor destination spanning more than eight acres. Both New York-New York and Monte Carlo will transform their park-facing facades with a series of unique indoor/outdoor dining and entertainment venues, cultivating a vibrant patio culture that encompasses The Park’s landscaped spaces. To create a harmonious dialogue between resorts, Rue de Monte Carlo, the adjacent street providing access from Las Vegas Boulevard, will be realigned as a gently curving, tree-lined parkway: a grand approach to the new arena. New cobblestone walkways in front of New York-New York and Monte Carlo will lead guests into The Park from both directions and blend seamlessly with the mosaic tile patterns that canvas the space. Unique water features, including water walls stretching more than 100 feet in length along the entrance will add unexpected visuals, as will dramatic plantings incorporating a variety of beautiful desert blooms. Exploring The Park, guests will encounter spontaneous live entertainers, such as acoustic guitarists and street performers.

Wearables Replace Room Keys and Credit Cards at Two Ibiza Hotels
Two Ibiza hotels are rolling out wearable technology that will allow guests to leave their room keys and credit cards in their luggage while enjoying the summer destination. Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel and the brand new Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza shared details about the VIBs, short for very important bracelets, this week. Guests can use the bracelets to enter their rooms, pay for food and services on-site, and skip lines for check-in and check-out. Guests will have to buy the bracelets for $40 apiece. A summer resort is an ideal place to test wearable’s since guests are less likely to want to carry around their personal items while wearing bathing suits, swimming, or enjoying nightlife.

U.S. Pre Check Program Expands to Air Canada Passengers
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration is expanding its Pre Check expedited screening program to passengers on international airlines. Yesterday, Air Canada became the first international carrier to participate, with TSA officials saying other foreign airlines would soon sign on. Airlines need to first update their computer systems to embed extra information in their boarding-pass barcodes as well as printing a Pre Check logo. Passengers in Pre Check lanes get to leave on their shoes, belt and light jackets, keep liquids and laptops in their bags and use a standard metal detector, not the full-body scanners. Security agents can process twice as many passengers in Pre Check lanes in the same time as in a normal lane. That allows the agency to dedicate more staff to other passengers. The program is open to some elite frequent fliers of U.S. airlines as well as the 2.4 million travelers enrolled in one of the Customs and Border Protection’s expedited entry programs: Global Entry, Nexus and Sentri. The government is turning to foreign carriers to sign on to the program, to help ease checkpoint congestion. The airlines are responsible for paying for their computer upgrades, hence some of the hesitation. With Air Canada’s entrance, the TSA says other foreign carriers are soon to follow. Ideally, the biggest benefit would be from airlines with the most U.S. passengers: British Airways, Air France and German carrier Lufthansa. But TSA officials said they are working with international carriers large and small.

Regal Princess Completes Sea Trials
Regal Princess has completed her sea trials in preparation for her May 20 debut. The new cruise ship set out to sea from her construction dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and was put through her paces with a series of maneuvers to test her propulsion, steering and navigational equipment. After a successful five days of trials, the ship is now back in the shipyard for further exterior and interior finishing. Regal Princess will be ready for her maiden voyage from Venice, a seven-day Mediterranean cruise to Athens including stops in Corfu, Mykonos and an overnight call in Istanbul. Regal Princess, a sister ship to Royal Princess, will offer guests a variety of features, including a large atrium, the social hub of the ship; an over-water Sea Walk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel; plush private poolside cabanas; the Princess Live television studio; a dedicated pastry shop; a special Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light; and balconies on all outside staterooms.

 

News is courtesy of ARTA Online.