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Thursday February 29, 2024

Editor’s Note — TRO wants to remind its Travelgram readers the articles presented here are meant to assist you in remaining informed and prepared to discuss travel news of the day with clients.


Destinations

Plaza de Espana: Seville to charge fee for visiting landmark square
Tourists visiting the southern Spanish city of Seville may soon have to pay a fee to explore the wide, ornate Plaza de Espana square, the city hall said, as part of plans to control tourist overload in a public open…

Survey: Orlando ranks as most LGBTQ-friendly travel destination in U.S.
Orlando is at the top of the list for most LGBTQ-friendly travel destinations in the United States, according to research from travel website ParkSleepFly. The rankings are based on anti-discrimination scores (using data from the Human Rights Campaign), LGBTQ events, safety, hotel prices and the number of bars and…

7 Must-Visit Destinations in Australia and Vietnam for 2024
As you plan your travel itinerary for 2024, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and exploring the lesser-known wonders of Australia and Vietnam. These countries offer a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, promising unique experiences and unforgettable memories for those willing to seek them…

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Cruise

Norwegian Cutting European Season Short, Citing North American Consumer Demand
Strong close in demand for Caribbean sailings has led to itinerary adjustments for Norwegian Cruise Line later this year, said Harry Sommer, president and CEO, speaking on the compan's fourth quarter and year-end earnings call. "First, close-in demand for Caribbean sailing is particularly strong prompting the redeployment of Norwegian…

China Maps Out Construction for Second Large Domestic Cruise Ship
Chinese officials detailed the plans for the country's second domestically-built large cruise ship as they continue to look to refine their…

Best times to go on a cruise: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean
Here are the best months to cruise Alaska, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and other popular…

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Transportation

Hundreds of flights canceled as Argentina's air travel workers go on 24-hour strike
Hundreds of flights have been canceled and dozens more rescheduled in Argentina as unionized air travel workers go on a 24-hour strike nationwide to demand better wages, in the latest sign of social unrest in the South American…

Cracked windshield forces American Airlines flight to make emergency landing in Boston
An American Airlines flight was forced to divert to Logan Airport due to a cracked windshield, Massachusetts State Police…

Delta's Digital ID Is Faster Than PreCheck
It may not last forever, but for now the new Delta Digital ID speeds passengers through security faster than PreCheck or CLEAR—and it’s free to boot. After successful beta testing in Detroit and Atlanta, the biometric program now has expanded to LAX, LGA and JFK, and since the program is so…

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Lodging

This Unexpected Retreat Might Be the R&R You Didn't Know You Needed
At Ocala, Florida's The Equestrian Hotel guests can experience and enjoy leisurely time amongst beautiful, trained, prize-winning…

How Hotels Get Their Star Ratings and What They Mean
A primer on what different hotel rating systems are and what they…

Seven Paris Hotels With Serious History
Seven hotels in spaces that have stood the test of time through decades and centuries of Parisian history. You can feel it in the…

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Other and Odd

The Transportation Department proposes new rules for how airlines handle wheelchairs
Airlines often damage or lose wheelchairs. Now the Biden administration is proposing new standards for how airlines accommodate passengers with…

Yes, cruise jails are a thing. Here's what could land you in one.
TikToker Theresa Rowley said she almost landed herself in 'cruise jail' after an altercation with a fellow passenger. Turns out that's a…

United launches Touchless ID technology for Airlines
United Airlines and TSA unveil Touchless ID technology at O'Hare and LAX, enhancing travel efficiency for TSA PreCheck members with facial…

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Today in History

Gone With the Wind Wins Eight Oscars
On February 29, 1940, the film Gone with the Wind took home eight Oscars. One of the most famous southern romances depicting life in the south during the Civil War, the movie dominated the prestigious Best Picture, Director, Screenplay, Cinematography, Art Direction, Film Editing, and Actress categories. The most momentous award that night, however, was won by Hattie McDaniel for her portrayal of "Mammy.” McDaniel, who took home Best Supporting Actress, was the first African-American actor in history to win an…

The Incessant Traveler

McGee on AA’s NDC: Changing the Rules on Miles Should be Illegal
by David Cogswell
Thursday February 29, 2024

Last week, after ASTA responded to American Airlines’ move to deny frequent flyer privileges to customers who are not booking through its New Distribution Capability (NDC), I had the good fortune of speaking with William McGee. He is one of the top authorities on airlines, and a consumer advocate in the never-ending battles between airlines and the public they are mandated to serve. There is no better way to get clarity on airline issues than to speak with McGee.

McGee’s current title is senior fellow for aviation and travel at the American Economic Liberties Project. But that doesn’t begin to describe his level of authority when speaking about airlines. Because that knowledge is so important as we approach an issue that arguably poses an existential threat…

  — Travel Research Online
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Upcoming Training Opportunities


Explore Spain & Portugal with Blue-Roads Touring

Explore Spain & Portugal with Blue-Roads Touring

Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 4 pm EDT/1 pm PDT

From Madrid to Barcelona and Pamplona, Spain is a cultural melting pot, with a rich mix of Moorish, Roman and Basque influences. Followed by one of Europe’s most beautiful countries, Portugal is the ideal destination for any traveler, with green mountains, spectacular slopes, desert-like landscapes and pristine beaches. Join the Blue-Roads Touring Global Head of Sales, Dylan Hearne, as we venture into all the highlights these destinations have to offer. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The original small group touring company, Blue-Roads Touring offers a selection of small group tours in the UK and Europe. With plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded travelers and time to savor each moment, guests are invited to explore each unique destination in depth. Guided by passionate Tour Leaders and filled with new discoveries, breathtaking scenery and genuine local experiences, our tours are a cut above the rest. And our small group sizes of up to 18 people mean you can expect a more personalized touring experience – traveling in a luxury mini-coach to avoid large crowds and overpopulated tourist spots.

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Universal Epic Universe

Universal Epic Universe

Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 2 pm EST/11 am PST

Five immersive worlds. One amazing theme park. In 2025, Universal Epic Universe changes everything. Explore astounding worlds beyond anything you’ve experienced before, and stay in brand new spectacular hotels right next to the new park. Lidia Markser will cover everything that’s been announced so far. You wont want to miss it!

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