TOURISM - TRAVEL NEWS

Ever since living and working there back in the 1980’s, I have loved Pittsburgh.  Even when there was snow and it was cold, and I had to take the incline down Mount Washington, hop on a cable car on my way into the center of town. Pittsburgh was like a group of small towns huddled together each with their own personality. When people ask what the top 10 cities in the US are, Pittsburgh … [Read more...]

Mont Saint Michel (often written Mont St Michel, with other variations) is a small UNESCO World Heritage listed island located just off the coast of the northern French region of Normandy. Keep on reading for more information on how to visit Mont Saint Michel. The island is best known as the site of the spectacular and well-preserved Norman Benedictine Abbey of St Michel at … [Read more...]

Sunset photography secrets: 10 top tips for breathtaking shots By Paul Johnson on Sep 27, 2023 in Photography, Travel Equipment There’s something truly magical about a stunning sunset, isn’t there? That soft, warm glow casting a golden hue over the world, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange — it’s a photographer’s dream. But capturing those breathtaking sunset … [Read more...]

Byron Bay is considered a hotspot for travelers – and not for nothing! Here you will find a colorful mix of different people, which will immerse you in a truly unique atmosphere. The city’s motto says it all: cheer up, slow down, chill out. Byron Bay is one of the most popular stops along the eastern coast and THE surf hotspot in all of Australia. Almost every surfer you’ll meet during your … [Read more...]

The battle of budget hotel brands is now a war that extends across the Atlantic Ocean.On Wednesday, Marriott International launched another midscale brand, Four Points Express by Sheraton, aimed at courting travelers craving a more affordable hotel stay experience. Four Points Express by Sheraton will fall in the midscale tier while Four Points falls in the upscale category, according to a brand … [Read more...]

Brazil has so many undiscovered and beautiful destinations, here are a few of them in the state of Maranhao (MA), in the northeast. I still have a ton of family in that area, and I miss them dearly. When I was there a few years ago, B.C. (Before Child) we went on an overnight eco-tour excursion to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park that left me amazed, replenished and ready for … [Read more...]

If you're looking to boost your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan balance, here is a good opportunity to do so.Right now, applicants for the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card can earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more on purchases within the first 90 days from account opening.There is also a … [Read more...]

Skift Take It may not be a good time to be a budget airline in the U.S. but that's not slowing the growth of David Neeleman's latest venture, Breeze Airways. Edward Russell U.S. airlines have scheduled too many flights this fall for the number of travelers, Breeze Airways founder and CEO David Neeleman said. This is pushing down airfares just as fuel prices are … [Read more...]

In his first public comments since changes to his airline's frequent flyer program outraged scores of loyalists, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian admitted that the airline may have overdone the changes, alienating some customers."No question, we probably went too far," Bastian said. "Our team wanted to kind of rip the band-aid off."Want more airline-specific news? Sign up for TPG's free biweekly … [Read more...]

Believe it or not, ski season is just around the corner, and many mountain resorts are hoping they'll be able to open in the next month or two. While resort openings obviously depend on the weather, a few mountains already saw a dusting over Labor Day weekend. And the Old Farmer's Almanac is predicting a snowy winter. Yes, you read that right — you might not have to wait too long to strap on ski … [Read more...]

Though fall has just begun, it's not too early to start thinking about your holiday travel plans.In preparation for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year's Eve and any other holiday travel, there are some timely to-do items, such as booking your flights and renewing your passport.Book your flights by OctoberIf you haven't already, you should book your flights by next month at the very … [Read more...]

Who said vacations have to be expensive? Plan a staycation by going on a camping trip or heading to an RV park for a weekend. Here’s how to plan a fun, inexpensive camping vacation with your kids.  With rising economic pressures and everything costing more than expected, we often feel guilty for not giving our children a fun vacation. However, did you know there are ways to take your children … [Read more...]

Multiple airlines are offering discounted flights to destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico, including hot spots like Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Montego Bay in Jamaica.There is plenty of availability this fall and winter, so you can escape the cold and lounge on the beach. There is also some scattered availability from March to August 2024.Deal basicsAirlines: Alaska Airlines, … [Read more...]

Saudi Arabia will raise its previous 100 million visitors by 2030 target to 150 million, as kingdom officials say the old number is too low. The move was revealed during the Skift Global Forum 2023 by Mahmoud Abdulhadi, Deputy Minister, Destination Enablement at the Ministry of Tourism. “100 million visits is no longer sufficient,” he said. “We are well above our targets and well above our … [Read more...]

Your credit score is a critical metric for your ability to receive a credit card and score a lucrative sign-up bonus. Knowing your score — and how to improve it — is a fundamental of the points-and-miles hobby.Years ago, you would have probably had to pay to check your credit score. Now, though, you can check your credit score for free from each credit reporting agency once every week. However, … [Read more...]

Skift Take Peter Kern stood by the decision about the split with Hopper, but he said other partners shouldn't worry — as long as they play by the rules. Justin Dawes Expedia Group caused a stir this summer when it cut ties with the growing online travel app Hopper.  Peter Kern, Expedia’s CEO, stood by the decision onstage Wednesday at the Skift Global Forum … [Read more...]

Hilton CEO Christopher Nassetta is known for being a growth and change agent at the hotel conglomerate.Under his tenure, the company moved its headquarters from Beverly Hills, California, to just outside Washington, D.C. — a geographic switch timed alongside the company's "It's morning in America" wake-up call that took it from industry sleeper to growth juggernaut.Brands across the entire price … [Read more...]

Anderson Valley, California, is an extraordinary wine region. Read on to discover what awaits in this valley known for its exceptional wines. Situated in the heart of scenic Mendocino County, this bucolic valley boasts a rich winemaking history that dates to the 19th century. Known for its cool climate and unique terroir, Anderson Valley wines draw wine enthusiasts seeking something … [Read more...]

If you're in the market for a personal Hilton card and are willing to pay an annual fee to receive a great welcome offer and benefits, you may be wondering whether to apply for the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card (see rates and fees) or the benefits-heavy Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card (see rates and fees).Today, we will walk through the ins and outs of both cards to help … [Read more...]

In June 2023, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) rolled out Verified Traveller, which is a program that facilitates expedited airport security screening for eligible passengers at select Canadian airports. Verified Traveller is a revamped version of the now-defunct Trusted Traveller Program, and in many ways, it’s similar to the TSA Pre-Check program offered in the United … [Read more...]