The Travel Top 10

AIRLINE NEWS

Air France Opens New Lounge At LAX

Air France is set to enhance the travel experience at Los Angeles International Airport with the opening of a new lounge on June 21, 2024, located in the Tom Bradley terminal. Catering to Air France's La Première, Business, and Flying Blue Elite Plus customers, as well as eligible KLM and SkyTeam partner airline guests, this space offers a serene retreat with a variety of seating options and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The lounge design, featuring work by notable French designers, embodies the airline's chic aesthetic and includes an extensive dining area that spotlights French gastronomy, alongside a bar well-stocked with fine wines and spirits.

Further enhancing the customer experience, the lounge includes a Clarins spa treatment area offering complimentary facial treatments to rejuvenate travelers pre-flight. Special areas within the lounge provide additional exclusivity for La Première and Flying Blue Ultimate customers, offering everything from private dining to a tranquil relaxation zone. This new facility not only promises comfort and luxury but also focuses on sustainability through practices like local sourcing and reducing plastic use, ensuring a premium, eco-conscious hospitality experience for travelers passing through LAX.

Also — Deloitte's 2024 summer travel report reveals steady trends in vacation planning despite higher costs, with one-third of Americans targeting the July 4th weekend for their longest trip. Key findings show a stable desire for travel, with 48% of Americans planning trips involving paid lodging, similar to last year. However, travelers are making fewer trips overall and adjusting budgets upwards, particularly in higher-income groups. Additionally, road trips are gaining popularity as a cost-saving measure. Deloitte offers further insights into how economic factors are shaping summer travel behaviors and is set to release a corporate travel report in mid-July.

AIRLINE NEWS

Airlines Roll Out The Deals With Summer Sale

American Airlines is rolling out special deals on AAdvantage miles redemptions for late summer and fall travel, with reduced mileage prices for destinations worldwide, including Europe, East Asia, and Latin America. The promotion covers travel options from the continental U.S. to places like London, Paris, and Tokyo in both economy and premium cabins. Travelers looking to boost their miles can leverage everyday activities through AAdvantage's partner programs, earning miles on everything from grocery shopping to dining out.

CRUISE NEWS

Celebrity Cruises Elevates Onboard Experience

Celebrity Cruises is elevating the luxury cruise experience with significant enhancements to The Retreat, making it the most luxurious offering at sea. With input from guests and partners, The Retreat now features perks such as a dedicated butler service accessible via Butler Chat, and personalized shore excursions with suite-to-car escorts. Culinary updates include new signature dishes at Luminae, the suites-only restaurant, and a variety of dining options available right in the suite. Additional amenities for guests include reserved theater seating, complimentary laundry services in Royal Suites and above, and priority embarkation processes. The Retreat aims to provide an unmatched, luxurious cruising experience with comprehensive, personalized services ensuring comfort and exclusivity.

STAYING IN STYLE

Hotels Update And Offer New Summer Promotions

Escape to the serene ambiance of Mexico City this summer with Mondrian Mexico City Condesa's exclusive offer: book two nights and get the third night free. Nestled between the vibrant neighborhoods of La Condesa and La Roma, the hotel promises an unrushed experience with spacious, tree-lined streets and eclectic culinary adventures at SkyBar, The Flower Shop, and La Terraza. Make the most of this tranquil getaway and savor the local culture and cuisine, available until August 31, 2024.

El Palace Barcelona, in a landmark collaboration with Palacio Domecq, introduces a luxurious two-day experience allowing guests to immerse in 18th-century Spanish royalty and winemaking heritage. This exclusive package includes guided tours, traditional Andalusian dinners, private flamenco performances, and sherry tastings with the Domecq family. This initiative combines El Palace's opulent history with authentic local culture, targeting discerning travelers seeking a unique and culturally rich Spanish getaway.

Atlantis Paradise Island is launching two major summer sales, offering 25% off and up to $800 in resort credits with its Independence Day Flash Sale and Exclusive Atlantis Insider Sale. The resort is introducing several new attractions, including a Barbie-themed vacation experience and the opening of Chef JJ Johnson's FIELDTRIP restaurant. Additionally, luxury shoppers can anticipate new Cartier and Christian Louboutin boutiques. The sales offer significant savings and family-friendly perks, with bookings available on specific dates throughout the summer and fall.

The Gant in Aspen is rolling out several enticing offers and partnerships for the fall season, enhancing both wellness and culinary experiences. They've teamed up with Base State to introduce wellness packages starting at $220, aimed at helping travelers acclimate to the altitude with various health-focused services. On the culinary front, The Gant has launched a new restaurant, Origin, in collaboration with The Farmer & Chef, emphasizing local regenerative agriculture. Additionally, The Gant is expanding its outdoor activities through a partnership with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, offering guided hikes and nature activities. A variety of travel packages are also available, providing savings and unique experiences for extended stays and secure bookings.