The Travel Top 10

AIRLINE NEWS

Airlines Set Sights On Olympic Wins, New Routes

Airlines Going For Gold: As the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris (July 26-August 11) quickly approach, the travel industry is buzzing with excitement, especially with an increase in flight bookings to the City of Light. French bee, a Paris-based long-haul airline, is responding to the summer demand by boosting its US to Paris routes by 9% compared to last year. Offering the most affordable fares, French bee stands out as the only nonstop airline flying into Orly Airport, providing the easiest access to central Paris. Key expansions include increased flights from New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, with special routes for Olympic events, like San Francisco to Tahiti for surfing competitions. With roundtrip flights starting as low as $648, and a convenient air+train partnership with SNCF to explore beyond Paris, French bee offers an enticing option for those cheering on the American team or exploring France during the Olympics.

Speaking of the Olympics: With the Olympics just around the corner, Citymapper is rolling out special features to guide travelers through Paris during the 2024 Games. In partnership with Paris's public transport agency, IDFM, the app promises a streamlined travel experience, offering personalized journey options and real-time updates in multiple languages. Known for its precision and local insights—like the best train carriage for your trip—Citymapper is set to be an indispensable tool for visitors navigating the bustling city this summer, ensuring an intuitive and stress-free exploration of Paris amidst the Olympic excitement.

New Airline Route: This June, Turkish Airlines is set to launch Denver's inaugural nonstop flights to Istanbul, marking a significant expansion in its North American network. Starting June 11, 2024, with three weekly flights and increasing to four in July, this new service connects Denver International Airport directly to over 340 destinations worldwide via Istanbul. This addition strengthens Turkish Airlines' presence in the U.S., reflecting its ongoing mission to connect diverse cultures and destinations. Denver's community and Turkish Airlines celebrate this milestone, anticipating enhanced cultural, commercial, and travel opportunities, alongside the airline's renowned hospitality and service offerings.

Mystery Destination Flight A Success: SAS EuroBonus launches its inaugural "Destination Unknown" flight today, taking 180 passengers on an innovative journey without revealing the destination, sparking huge interest among members. This unique travel concept, exclusively available for bookings with points, underscores SAS' commitment to pioneering new experiences in travel. With over 6,000 members signing up and more than 20,000 contest entries for seats, it's clear that the allure of the unknown is a powerful draw for today's adventurers. SAS is now considering making this a regular offering, proving the importance of innovation in the travel industry.

EARTH DAY

Destinations Focus On Sustainable Travel

For Earth Day, let's talk about two spots that totally get the vibe of celebrating our planet. First up, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch in sunny California – think fifty-five acres of blooming flowers and all sorts of fun, earthy activities. They've got this foundation that's all about getting kids into agriculture, showing them how cool and important the Earth is. Then there's Backland Luxury Camping in Arizona, where glamping goes next level with eco-friendly luxury tents and a spa, all about loving on nature and making sure we leave the place better than we found it. Both spots are perfect for soaking in the Earth Day spirit and remembering why we gotta take care of our world.

For those looking to celebrate the environment through nature and wine, Shafer Vineyards unveils The Hillside Select Experience, Napa Valley's latest luxury wine adventure, offering an unparalleled exploration of the acclaimed Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon. Starting May 2, for $500 per guest, this seasonal experience available May through October, includes a champagne and caviar welcome, an exclusive vineyard tour with stunning Napa views, and a tasting of current and rare vintages. This immersive journey through Shafer's estate adds a new dimension to Napa's wine tasting offerings, promising guests a blend of exquisite flavors and breathtaking landscapes.

CRUISE NEWS

New Ships Take To The Sea

🚢⚓ Margaritaville at Sea introduces the Islander, its latest cruise ship embarking from Port Tampa Bay, boasting over 700 balcony staterooms and exclusive Signature Suites inspired by Jimmy Buffett's hits. Set to elevate the cruising experience with its maiden voyage in June, the ship offers renovated staterooms reflecting the brand's signature beachy vibe across twelve passenger decks. Unique to Islander are amenities like the three-story poolside LandShark Bar, family-friendly spaces, and themed dining experiences, ensuring an unforgettable journey to Cozumel, Mexico.

STAYING IN STYLE

New Hotel Openings, And Unique Vacation Packages

In collaboration with new flights to Jamaica, Sandals and Beaches Resorts are offering the 'Love and Let Fly' package, a nod to the spring season and cinematic travel fantasies, whisking travelers from the airport to the golden shores of Jamaica in style. The package, valid for bookings through May 16 for travel until May 24, 2024, enriches the vacation experience with exclusive adventures and cocktails inspired by the James Bond series, starting at $266 per night, blending luxury with adventure for an unforgettable island getaway.

Greenhorn Ranch, nestled in the breathtaking Northern Sierras of California, just an hour and a half drive from Reno, is opening its doors for the season from May through October. Spread across 608 pristine acres, the ranch offers a unique stay in one of its 16 updated rustic cabins, 12 lodge rooms, or a charming, refurbished airstream trailer, all on an all-inclusive basis. Guests can indulge in Chef Brian Doyle’s hearty, nostalgic meals, participate in a variety of outdoor activities from horseback riding to skeet shooting, and enjoy evening entertainment at The Saloon. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, seek adventure, or simply unwind in a serene setting, Greenhorn Ranch, with its rich history dating back to the gold rush era, promises an unforgettable experience that might just become your new cherished tradition.

Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortés, a gem in IHG Hotels & Resorts' luxury collection, marks a new chapter for La Paz, Baja California Sur, as it opens its doors in the eco-conscious Puerta Cortés complex. Offering 115 renovated rooms with stunning views, this upscale resort blends modern luxury with the tranquil beauty of its coastal setting. Guests can indulge in a Gary Player-designed golf course, exclusive beach club, and a variety of dining experiences that celebrate local ingredients. The resort not only offers a gateway to the "aquarium of the world" but also embodies a commitment to sustainability and cultural immersion, promising an unparalleled experience in Mexico's best-kept secret.

The WILD by Interni in Mykonos, a boutique hotel celebrated for its chic design and serene location, reopens this April. Nestled on a clifftop overlooking the Aegean, this 40-key hideaway offers exclusive beach access and panoramic views, encapsulating the essence of Mykonos' rustic landscape and maritime heritage. This season introduces a unique sailing excursion aboard a traditional fisherman's vessel, enhancing the guest experience with authentic fishing adventures and fresh, local cuisine at the property's Taverna. With luxurious accommodations, a slow food philosophy, and bespoke island explorations, The WILD promises an immersive retreat into the tranquil beauty and vibrant spirit of Mykonos from April 26 to October 30.

Finally, for sports fans, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Manchester United's iconic 1998-1999 Treble-winning season, Marriott Hotels, in partnership with the club, is offering the "Suite of Dreams" experience at Old Trafford for one fortunate fan. This unique stay, part of Marriott Bonvoy Moments, includes an exclusive tour of the Carrington training ground and Old Trafford, a dining experience with a Manchester United Legend, and the chance to prepare kits in the home dressing room. Guests will also enjoy accommodations at the Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel surrounding their stadium sleepover, merging the vibrant spirit of the '90s with the legacy of the club in a once-in-a-lifetime fan experience.