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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
Mexico Mulls a $42 Tourist Tax
Every cruise ship passenger entering Mexican waters soon may be charged a $42 tax, whether they disembark or not. Mexico has long taxed hotel guests but exempted cruise passengers, who sleep on their ship. But a bill working its way through the Mexican Congress now would…
— Travel Research Online
Is South Korea Safe To Visit?
South Korea, known for its cutting-edge technology, cultural heritage, and cuisine, has a long-standing reputation as a favorite destination for many travelers. However, recent political events have cast a shadow of uncertainty over this popular destination. This has prompted travelers to…
— Travel Noire
I’ve Been Traveling to Africa for 35 Years — Here’s What You Should Know Before Planning Your First Trip
I first traveled to Africa when I was five years old, and I’ve returned every year since. No matter how many times I go, I’m always filled with that same excitement and awe I had as a little boy. Now armed with 35 years of experience touring the continent, I have some strong opinions…
— Travel+Leisure
Tours and Activities
The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza Is Partially Open – Here's How to Visit
After more than a decade of delays and much anticipation, the Grand Egyptian Museum has opened its 12 main galleries, the Grand Staircase, and the Children's Museum. The caveat is that its prized King Tutankhamun collection and two King Khufu solar boats will remain under wraps…
— Condé Nast Traveler
13 Best Things to Do in Metropolitan Lima
The coastal capital city of Lima showcases what makes Peru a leading tourist destination: world-class gastronomy, ancient ruins and breathtaking natural landscapes. Of course, as a metropolitan capital, Lima does it all with a modern and urban style. Start planning your trip…
— Lonely Planet
Cruise
Accusation of Antisemitism Against Costa Cruises
It started with an article in Queens Jewish Link with the incendiary title Cruise Company To Kosher Travelers: Stay Off (queensjewishlink.com) and quickly spread across the tight-knit religious Jewish community. Here are the facts as we know them. The article asserted that a group of…
— Travel Research Online
‘Traveling Like a Celebrity’ on the Nile—How to Get Exclusive Access to Egypt’s Ancient Sites Without Crowds
“Welcome to Egypt. You’re now in the A&K cocoon,” Ehmad, my local escort with luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent, said as he walked me through immigration, out of the Cairo airport, and to the car that would take us to my hotel. Before departing he gave me his cell phone…
— Afar
Transportation
‘Once-In-A-Lifetime Event’: Why United Is Taking Families on Flights to ‘North Pole'
The flight had to divert, the pilot announced over the intercom Thursday afternoon. Luckily, no one on board appeared to freak out at this news. "Santa has invited us to Christmas Island and all his elves are waiting there on the ground for us," the pilot said. Everyone cheered…
— USA Today
How We Chose the Best Airline Loyalty Program
The TPG Awards have honored the top travel brands, credit cards and loyalty programs since 2018. But this year, we've taken a new approach to several of the honors, leveraging data to select the winners of five awards. For the first time ever, we used objective data to recognize the…
— The Points Guy
Lodging
NYC's Hotel Week Is Back With 25% Off Stays at Iconic Properties Starting Next Month
New York City is keeping holiday celebrations going even after the New Year's Eve ball drops with big discounts on more than 120 hotels. Travelers can save 25 percent off participating stays from Jan. 2 through Feb. 9 as part of the city’s annual NYC Hotel Week, New York City…
— Travel+Leisure
Holidays in Iceland: Best Hotels in Reykjavik for Families
Iceland is high on my travel list—and I’m not alone. The country is rich in natural wonders, from its famous lagoons to its stunning northern lights displays and even its black-sand beaches. In terms of culture, it also packs an oddly medieval punch, from its dishes to its language to its…
— Travel Awaits
Budget-Friendly Resorts & Seaside Serenity: Algarve's Secret Whitewashed Town Is Perfect For A Warm Winter Escape
Ever travel to a place that's been hyped up as the ultimate paradise only to discover it's an unbearable tourist trap? For me, that was Albufeira, supposedly one of the Algarve's magical ‘hidden gems'. Picture bland, overpriced food, tourist-overloaded beaches, and what should be…
— Travel Off Path
Other and Odd
Four of Europe’s Most Fascinating Pre-Christian Winter Festivals
Christmas has become the dominant festival in the Western cultural calendar, but echoes of the pre-Christian past can still be found across the continent. Christmas is the dominant festival in the Western winter, with an immediately recognisable cast of characters: Jesus, the Holy Family…
— BBC
How to Find a Good Travel Agent (And When You Should Never Use One)
Earlier this year, my wife and I decided to vacation in Norway and Copenhagen for a week. So, I did my standard research—perusing online and reading guidebooks—but then I stumbled upon a travel agency specializing in Scandinavia, based in Minneapolis. After going back and forth…
— Fodor's Travel
Today in History
The First African-American Governor
On this day in 1872, Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchback became the first person of African-American descent to serve as the governor of a U.S. State. Pinchback served as the Governor of Louisiana, rising to the office after…
— Travel Research Online
Editorial Musings
Keeping Data Safe: Top Tips to Prevent Travel Fraud and Protect Client Information
by John Frenaye
Monday December 09, 2024
As travel advis ors, protecting client information isn’t just a best practice—it’s a responsibility. And fraud is rampant with the holidays approaching and a busy new year on the horizon. Cybersecurity is essential to maintaining client trust and compliance, from preventing credit card fraud to safeguarding personal data. Here are practical ways to boost your agency's digital defenses and safeguard sensitive client information.
Recognize Common Travel Scams
The travel industry is a prime target for fraud. Fake travel sites, phishing scams, and fraudulent booking offers are common threats. Familiarize yourself with these schemes so you can advise clients on recognizing and avoiding suspicious offers. Remind them to avoid sharing personal information over unsecured channels and to double-check URLs before making payments. While not necessarily a fraud,…
— Travel Research Online
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Mike's Monday Cup of Mo-Joe
With a Little Help From Your Friends
 Although all my posts are important, this one may very well be more importanter than all the others combined. Yes, I know I said, “more importanter.” Do I have your attention?
For those of you pressed for time, I will cut to the chase. Get this and get it good: If you want to succeed in this business or any other business, it is more important than ever to “use” your friends. “Two heads (set of eyes) are better than one.”
By “friends” I mean mentor, coach, reliable source or any other name you choose to use. I was reminded of this on two occasions just last…
— Travel Research Online
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