The Family Reunion at the Salamander Middleburg is not just a gathering, it is an experience that transforms strangers into family. With approximately 1,000 attendees, the challenge of fostering deep connections may seem daunting. However, at the welcome reception, guests quickly formed bonds over wine, conversation, and even dancing the Cupid Shuffle. In its fourth
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The Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, located in the beautiful La Romana region of the Dominican Republic, is gearing up to host its second annual Casa de Campo Food & Wine Festival from Oct. 10 to 12. This event promises to be a culinary extravaganza, featuring renowned chefs and top-notch tastings that will leave
Alaska Airlines has successfully cleared the U.S. Justice Department’s scrutiny in its plan to acquire Hawaiian Airlines. This significant step comes after the antitrust regulators completed their investigation without raising any legal barriers to the $1.9 billion agreement between the two airlines. Now, the next hurdle for the airlines is to gain approval from the
The Department of Justice has given its stamp of approval to Alaska Airlines’ acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, finding that the merger does not violate antitrust laws. This move comes after a thorough review period, during which the two airlines collaborated with the Hawaii attorney general to address any concerns. While the DOJ has given the
It appears that the grip of revenge travel is finally loosening, and travelers are reevaluating their vacation plans for the upcoming summer months. According to a recent Deloitte Insights report, Americans are scaling back on their travel intentions, with the average number of planned trips dropping significantly from previous years. The report indicates that financial
As we approach the end of summer, it is essential to reflect on the challenges and opportunities that have shaped the travel industry in recent months. The month of July, in particular, proved to be a tumultuous period for Cruise.com, as recounted by its president, Anthony Hamawy. Despite facing multiple obstacles, Hamawy remains optimistic about
The recent announcement of Hyatt’s acquisition of Standard International, parent company of The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels brands, has sent shockwaves through the hotel industry. This strategic move is expected to have significant implications for both companies involved, as well as for the industry as a whole. Hyatt has agreed to pay a base purchase
The newly unveiled Cape Stout estate at Moskito Island Estates in the British Virgin Islands is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. Situated on three acres of pristine land, this estate boasts six buildings, seven suites, and can accommodate up to 14 guests. The property features four pools and three Jacuzzis, including a unique canal-style
The debate surrounding additives in agave spirits has been ongoing and there has been a lack of transparency in the industry. Many brands claim to be additive-free, but consumers have no way of confirming these claims. However, a new organization has emerged to address this issue and provide consumers with the information they need. The
In the post-pandemic world where cruise bookings are skyrocketing and the cruise industry is thriving once again, cruise lines are embarking on a shopping spree like never before. This year alone, contemporary and family-oriented cruise lines have collectively ordered a whopping 14 ships, many of them larger and more luxurious than their predecessors. This surge
Marriott International recently signed a long-term licensing agreement with Sonder Holdings, a company specializing in apartment-style accommodations. This partnership is expected to bring over 9,000 rooms to Marriott’s portfolio by the end of this year, with an additional 1,500 rooms in the works. These accommodations will be part of a new collection called Sonder by
The FAA has recently allocated $291 million in grants for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and related technologies. These funds, authorized under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, are aimed at supporting the Biden administration’s ambitious goal of reaching 3 billion gallons of domestic SAF production annually by 2030. This production target represents a significant step towards
Singapore is a city known for its luxury and extravagance, especially when it comes to accommodations. From the exclusive Chairman Suite at Marina Bay Sands to the tranquil Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island, there are plenty of high-end options for those looking for the ultimate stay. Raffles Hotel Singapore, founded in 1887, is another iconic
When planning a luxurious staycation in Penang, selecting the right hotel is key. The Eastern & Oriental Hotel, known affectionately as the ‚E&O,‘ is a top choice for discerning travelers. With a history dating back to 1885, this iconic hotel offers a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. The Deluxe Suites in the Heritage
Heaven Hill Distillery, based in Bardstown, Kentucky, has recently emerged as a prominent figure in the world of spirits. With an impressive showing at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Heaven Hill has solidified its position as one of the most awarded US whiskey makers of the year. Let’s delve deeper into their success
As I embarked on a Regent Seven Seas cruise, Malaga wasn’t initially on my list of must-visit destinations. However, as we docked in this charming city on Spain’s southern coast, I was taken aback by its sophistication and beauty. The sleek pier and modern roadway over the water provided a stunning introduction to what Malaga
Lindblad Expeditions‘ newest ships, the National Geographic Resolution and the National Geographic Endurance, boast an array of luxurious amenities that one would expect to find on upscale cruise ships. From spas to lounges, bars to tasting-menu dinners, these ships have it all. However, what truly sets them apart are the igloos perched on their decks.
The Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino is currently in the process of a $100 million renovation that includes the construction of a new oceanfront tower. This new tower, facing Palm Beach, will offer 161 units, including 18 oceanfront suites with a modern design and exclusive amenities such as swim-up pools and an adults-only rooftop
If you are a whisky aficionado, you may want to consider planning your next whisky pilgrimage to Australia instead of the more traditional destinations like Scotland or Japan. Starward, a whisky-focused distillery based in Melbourne, Australia, has recently been awarded the Most Awarded International Distillery Award from the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC)
When it comes to ice cream, most people are accustomed to varieties made from cow’s milk. However, recent research has explored the possibility of using mare’s milk as the base for creating delicious frozen treats. A team of scientists at the West Pomeranian University of Technology conducted a study to investigate the potential health benefits
Recently, an outbreak of Salmonella Africana and Salmonella Braenderup has been reported, affecting at least 449 individuals in 31 states and the District of Columbia. This outbreak has led to 125 hospitalizations, highlighting the severity of the situation. Initially, it was believed to be two separate outbreaks, but further investigations revealed that the two strains
The software update by cybersecurity provider CrowdStrike that crashed Microsoft Windows operating systems worldwide on July 19 had a significant impact on major U.S. airlines. Each airline faced its own set of challenges in restoring its operations following the system crash. American Airlines was quick to recover, with only 51 mainline flight cancellations the following
Eight months after rebranding to HX from Hurtigruten Expeditions, the company has taken a significant step forward by launching a new travel advisor portal and online education platform. The primary goal behind this initiative is to simplify the name and distinguish it from Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express cruises in Norway. The revamped portal provides access to
Oregon’s Portland International Airport has recently unveiled the first phase of its impressive new main terminal. The $2.15 billion terminal boasts a variety of upgrades designed to enhance the overall traveler experience. From new check-in areas to wider TSA security screening zones with state-of-the-art equipment, the terminal is a vast improvement from its predecessor. Additionally,
The 255-foot superyacht Malia made headlines when it was sold in 2023 for a staggering $120 million. However, for those who dream of cruising on this luxurious vessel, the price tag is not as unreachable as it seems. At a rate of $930,000 per week, guests can experience a taste of the high life on
After a meeting with Boeing’s new chief executive, Robert „Kelly“ Ortberg, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby expressed optimism about Boeing’s recovery. This comes as a significant change in tone from United, a top Boeing customer that has been vocal about the plane maker’s issues that have caused delays in deliveries of its aircraft. Kirby mentioned
North Korea is set to reopen its doors to international tourism this winter, marking the end of a long-standing ban on travelers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Operators KTG and Koryo Tours have shared information regarding the government’s plans to allow travel to selected locations within the country. Samjiyon, a North Korean city, is expected
Princess Cruises has recently made significant enhancements to its highest-tier cruise package, the Princess Premier package. The major upgrade includes unlimited drinks and unlimited specialty dining for passengers. Previously, the package only allowed for 15 drinks per day, limited to beverages priced at $15 each. However, with the new and improved Premier package, passengers can
In a surprising turn of events, Alaska Airlines flight attendants have rejected a new labor deal that would have seen immediate raises of over 24%. The union representing the flight attendants announced on Wednesday that the proposed agreement, which was reached in June, did not meet the expectations of its members. This rejection has prompted
Being a CEO comes with immense responsibilities and pressures that can take a toll on even the most seasoned executive’s mental health. The success or failure of a company often falls on the shoulders of the CEO, making the role both rewarding and challenging. As a company grows, so do the stakes, the expectations, and
Elliott Investment Management has officially announced 10 nominees for Southwest Airlines’ board of directors. This move is part of their ongoing demand for changes within the carrier’s senior management. The investment firm has been pushing for the removal of Southwest CEO Bob Jordan since June, when they disclosed a significant stake in the company. These
One crucial consideration for travel advisors is the size of the groups they can effectively manage. It is essential to strike a balance between accommodating a large group while still providing a personalized experience. For example, one travel advisor capped a group cruise at 41 people to ensure that they could dine together every night
When it comes to organizing group travel, one of the key considerations is the size of the group that the advisor, as well as the ship, can effectively manage. For example, a travel advisor named Freed is currently preparing to take a group of her neighbors on a cruise with Royal’s sister brand, Silversea. Through
Monaco, known for its association with car racing and boating, has been making efforts to position itself as a sustainability destination. The „Green is the New Glam“ campaign, launched in 2018, shed light on the country’s environmental endeavors. Furthermore, a 2023 tourism campaign emphasized sustainability as one of the three key pillars, alongside „Instagrammability“ and
As Hurricane Ernesto makes its way through the Caribbean, cruise lines have been forced to alter their itineraries to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers. One of the affected cruise lines is the Norwegian Cruise Line, which has had to make significant changes to several of its sailings. In addition to Norwegian Cruise
Starbucks made a bold move by removing its chief executive officer, Laxman Narasimha, after a disappointing earnings report that highlighted the brand’s struggles. The third quarter revenue dropped by 4% in comparable store sales, following a 3% drop in the previous quarter. This decline is a stark contrast to the full-year revenue for 2023, which
Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia boasts stunning lakes and waterfalls that can be explored through a network of trails and bridges. The history of these trails dates back to the late 19th century when the first bridges were constructed on the Upper Lakes, followed by those on the Lower Lakes. Originally made of concrete,
Dating back to 1856, Chicken Cock Whiskey has a rich history that can be traced back to a distillery in Paris, Kentucky founded by James A. Miller. Over the years, the brand faced numerous challenges, including changes in ownership, a devastating distillery fire, and the era of Prohibition, ultimately leading to its disappearance in the
As Royal Caribbean International embarks on developing its new series of cruise ships, named the Discovery class, there is much anticipation and speculation surrounding what these ships will offer. While the CEO, Michael Bayley, hinted at the project during a preview sailing of the Utopia of the Seas, it is in its very early stages
Alaska Airlines recently made a strategic investment in JetZero, an aircraft engineering startup with a groundbreaking blended-wing aircraft design. This innovative design has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption by up to 50%. By integrating the wings with the fuselage, JetZero’s aircraft boasts a sleeker shape that minimizes aerodynamic drag and