The Travel Top 10

AIRLINE NEWS

Low Cost Fare Wars: Southwest Airlines Changes Course

Southwest Airlines, long celebrated for its distinctive open seating policy, has announced a major shift in its boarding and seating strategy that promises to reshape its customer experience. After extensive research showing that 80% of their current customers and 86% of potential customers prefer assigned seating, Southwest will now offer assigned seats and premium seating options on all flights. This transition aims to address the primary concern leading customers to choose competitors over Southwest. According to Katy Nastro, a travel expert from Going.com, "This is really the end of an era for flyers who know and share in the 'luv' for Southwest. The decision could serve as a significant win for travelers, offering a faster and more streamlined boarding process, contrasting with the previous system that actually seemed to slow things down as passengers navigated open seating." As part of its broader modernization effort, which includes faster WiFi, in-seat power, and larger overhead bins, Southwest's new seating model is designed to enhance its market appeal and meet evolving passenger expectations.

AIRLINE NEWS

Deep Discounts to New Zealand

Air New Zealand is rolling out a tempting sale for travelers looking to escape the summer heat, with round-trip fares to Australia starting as low as $898 USD. From July 23, passengers can jet from cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu to Sydney, with stops in Auckland, seizing the chance to explore beyond Sydney to cities like Perth, Melbourne, and Brisbane. The sale spans across Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Premier classes, making down under more accessible than ever this summer.

CRUISE AND RESORT NEWS

News From The Cruise, Resort, and Experience was Industry

Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise company, has announced the order of three new ships for Carnival Cruise Line, set to be the largest in the company's global fleet. These new vessels, to be delivered in 2029, 2031, and 2033, will expand Carnival's LNG-powered fleet to 16, significantly enhancing its capacity and environmental sustainability. Designed in partnership with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, these ships will boast over 3,000 guest staterooms and the capability to entertain nearly 8,000 guests each, making them the most substantial cruise ships in terms of capacity ever built by Fincantieri and in Italy. This strategic expansion reflects Carnival's disciplined growth approach, aiming to meet the surging demand for cruise vacations while optimizing its brand portfolio and financial health.

Resorts World Las Vegas is set to host the Big Deal for One Drop, a high-stakes charity poker tournament during Race Week on November 22, 2024, featuring celebrities, Race Week personalities, and top poker pros. Organized in partnership with the WPT® Foundation and One Drop® Foundation, the event aims to support global water initiatives, with players competing for significant prizes and contributing to a noble cause. The tournament will unfold at the Allē Lounge on 66, highlighting both the fun of poker and the critical mission of ensuring safe water worldwide.

The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival is gearing up for its 16th annual celebration on September 28-29, 2024, in the picturesque heart of La Jolla Village, San Diego. This vibrant, free event will feature over 160 artists, an international array of wines and craft beers in a ticketed garden, and a lineup of live entertainment and family-friendly activities. With proceeds benefiting local education and community arts, this festival offers a rich blend of cultural enrichment and community support, set against the backdrop of La Jolla's scenic charm.

Whitefish Food & Wine is set to launch its inaugural festival on September 13-15, 2024, co-founded by four-time James Beard Award-winning Chef Todd English. The event will showcase the burgeoning culinary scene of Whitefish, MT, with a variety of experiences from Grand Tasting sessions to nature-themed activities, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Flathead Valley.

British Airways, in collaboration with Chase, has launched the Luggage Tagged Sweepstakes, offering Executive Club members in the U.S. the chance to win one million Avios and an exclusive luggage set designed by Hannah King. The sweepstakes, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the British Airways Visa Signature® credit card, runs from July 9 to August 27, 2024. Participants can enter daily at luggagetaggedba.chase.com, with cardmembers receiving an additional entry. This event not only marks a milestone for the credit card but also encourages travelers to explore new destinations using Avios as part of British Airways' ongoing commitment to global connectivity and sustainability.

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is decking the halls with unique coastal Christmas festivities this holiday season. Starting in November, visitors can experience a wide array of events including the Great Christmas Light Show, a drive-through spectacle with over two million lights, and the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta, a decorated boat parade. Additional highlights include the North Pole Express Cruise, complete with a Polar Express reading and Santa visit, and the North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade on December 7th. Each event showcases the warm southern hospitality and mild winter weather, making North Myrtle Beach an ideal holiday destination. For more details on these holiday celebrations, visit explorenorthmyrtlebeach.com/events/holiday-events.

STAYING IN STYLE

New Hotels Celebrate Openings

Nestled in the Alpes-Maritimes just outside Mougins near Cannes, the iconic Mas Candille reemerges as a beacon of luxury in the South of France. Under the stewardship of entrepreneur Jean-Philippe Cartier and the Courtins-Clarins family, this beloved hotel has undergone significant renovations to revive its storied charm. Offering breathtaking views, a tranquil setting framed by olive trees and cicadas, and state-of-the-art amenities including a pioneering Spa by Clarins, Mas Candille promises an exquisite retreat for those seeking solace near the bustling French Riviera.

This summer, Boston beckons travelers with enticing offers, highlighted by The Dagny Boston's first anniversary specials and Labor Day promotions. Visitors can enjoy peak weather and vibrant events like free museum admissions and live music at Lawn on D, alongside specially priced stays at The Dagny, housed in Boston’s historic first Art Deco skyscraper. From newly renovated luxury rooms to proximity to top attractions and transportation, The Dagny is the perfect base for exploring Boston's rich blend of culture and history.

In the heart of Huntsville, Alabama, 106 Jefferson emerges as a quintessential destination for those seeking to blend luxury with historical charm during peak travel season. This lifestyle hotel, inspired by the city's rich space legacy, showcases an elegant outer space-themed art collection and offers prime access to Huntsville’s main attractions like the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Guests at 106 Jefferson can savor the view from the rooftop bar, Baker & Able, named after the pioneering space monkeys, or indulge in European-inspired cuisine with a modern twist at the hotel’s restaurant, Revivalist. If you're looking for a unique addition to your travel coverage, 106 Jefferson provides a compelling narrative of space, sophistication, and southern hospitality.

The Buccaneer, a premier beachfront resort in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, has launched its "Celebrate Summer" special, offering guests a complimentary fourth night with a minimum four-night stay booked by August 31, 2024. This promotion, valid for travel through December 20, 2024, invites visitors to immerse themselves in Cruzan culture and the island's breathtaking landscapes. Guests at The Buccaneer can extend their stay to enjoy more of the resort's luxurious amenities, including world-class golf, pristine beaches, and vibrant local traditions like the Moko Jumbie stilt walkers at the weekly cocktail reception. This family-owned resort, renowned for over 75 years of Caribbean hospitality, blends modern luxury with timeless elegance, providing an ideal gateway to St. Croix's laid-back luxury and rich history. For more details or to book, visit www.thebuccaneer.com.

As more people seek outdoor escapes, The Henson boutique hotel in Hensonville, New York, offers a picturesque retreat in the Catskills. Opened Memorial Day Weekend 2024, this newly launched property is just a short drive from Manhattan, featuring 16 sun-drenched rooms. Catering to a design-savvy clientele with its blend of contemporary and vintage decor, The Henson provides a perfect setting for local dining at its signature restaurant, Matilda, which showcases the finest local produce. With amenities including dog-friendly spaces, an herb garden, event-ready lawns, a wellness room with a sauna, and a roof deck offering views of Windham Mountain, The Henson is ideal for anyone looking to explore upstate New York’s natural beauty and community.

Catalina Island, a prime Southern California getaway, offers an array of fresh attractions and events for 2024, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors. From new culinary delights at Flx Biergarten and the renovated Lobster Trap, to revamped cultural attractions like El Rancho Escondido, Catalina enriches its visitors' experiences with a combination of natural beauty and local culture. Enhanced by new transportation options like the COAST on-demand service, and events ranging from the classic Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race to the unique Two Harbors Brew Fest, the island caters to all interests. Catalina also continues to evolve with additions like the Kelp Forest store and expanded offerings at Catalina Backcountry, providing new ways to enjoy its iconic scenery. Whether it’s through enjoying a festival or exploring the backcountry, Catalina Island promises diverse adventures for all.

The Westin Jekyll Island is embarking on an extensive transformation to redefine itself as a premier beachfront resort, deeply integrated with the Georgia coast's unique attributes. Spearheaded by three-time James Beard nominee Chef Lindsay Autry, the renovation includes the launch of three new dining concepts and a comprehensive revamp of its rooms and public spaces. These changes aim to enhance the guest experience by offering top-tier dining, historical tours, and eco-friendly activities, transforming the traditionally quiet Jekyll Island into a vibrant leisure destination.