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DHS ACCEPTING VISA-FREE TRAVEL APPLICATIONS FOR ELIGIBLE ISRAELI CITIZENS
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that eligible Israeli citizens and nationals can apply for authorization to travel to the US through the US Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). US authorities had previously designated Israel into the US Visa Waiver Program effective November 30; however, the implementation date was expedited due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Successful applicants are able to enter the US for business or tourism purposes for up to 90 days. Israeli citizens and nationals who currently have a valid B-1/B-2 visas can also continue to use them for business and tourist travel to the US. Eligible Israeli citizens and nationals must have a biometrically enabled passport book. ESTA applications may take up to 72 hours for processing. Eligible travelers can apply online for authorization to travel to the US through the ESTA at esta.cbp.dhs.gov or by downloading the “ESTA Mobile” app through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
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UNITED AIRLINES UNVEILS 2024 TRANSATLANTIC SCHEDULE
United Airlines has announced its largest-ever transatlantic summer schedule for 2024, with nonstop flights to 38 cities, including the first and only direct flight between the US and Faro, Portugal, as well as new flights to Brussels, Malaga, Reykjavik, Rome, and more. In addition, the carrier also revealed it would bring back nine of its most popular seasonal routes to Italy, France, Portugal, and Spain up to two months early. "United has the most flights to the most destinations across the Atlantic and we're now giving our customers even more flexibility and choice when planning their trips abroad," said Patrick Quayle, United's senior vice president of global network planning and alliances. "Whether customers are looking to travel during peak season or shoulder season, visit the most popular tourism destinations or discover a hidden gem, the scope and scale of our network makes United the easy choice for transatlantic travel." United also plans to increase its Latin American schedule next summer by 10 percent, including new service between Denver and each San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Montego Bay, Jamaica; and between Newark and each Barbados and Curacao.
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DELTA PARTNERING WITH HUGHES TO BRING FREE WI-FI TO REGIONAL ROUTES
Delta Air Lines has announced its partnership with broadband satellite services & managed network solutions Hughes Network Systems to bring fast, free Wi-Fi on regional aircraft. Beginning in mid-2024, Delta will offer free streaming-capable connectivity to its fleet of more than 400 regional jets. These aircraft will also receive the new Delta Sync Wi-Fi login experience as new systems are installed. Travelers onboard will enjoy reliable, streaming-quality connectivity on all their personal devices from gate to gate. "Delta is committed to delivering a reliable Wi-Fi experience to all our passengers, including those flying on our regional carriers," said Glenn Latta, managing director, In-flight Entertainment and Connectivity, Delta. "Our partnership with Hughes to create a low-weight, high-capability, gate-to-gate solution for our regional fleet brings us ever closer to fleet-wide connectivity at the speed and reliability our customers expect and unlocks our ability to elevate the experience further in the years to come."
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US SEEKS TO BLOCK JETBLUE-SPIRIT AIRLINE MERGER
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has begun its efforts in federal court to block JetBlue Airways from acquiring Spirit Airlines, reports Reuters. US District Judge William Young is leading a jury trial that is expected to last around three weeks, which will look to determine whether the $3.8 billion acquisition proposal between JetBlue and Spirit is legal. The DOJ argues that the acquisition will lead to higher fares and fewer flights. “The transaction promises to replace Spirit with a higher-cost airline that offers fewer seats, charges higher fares, and is less likely to upset other airlines' higher prices,” the DOJ said. Justice Department attorney Arianna Markel in her opening statement said that a JetBlue internal analysis projected its fares would increase 30 percent once Spirit is not a competitor. Travelers would suffer roughly $1 billion in net harm annually, she also stated. Earlier this year, a judge ruled that the Northeast Alliance, which was to combine forces and revenue in the northeast corridor between American Airlines and JetBlue, was illegal. The judge ruled there would be a lack of competition, ultimately driving up fares.
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IATA'S GLOBAL TRANSPORTATION SURVEY REVEALS TRAVELERS' TOP PRIORITIES
The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 2023 Global Passenger Survey revealed that speed and convenience are the biggest priorities for air travelers, reports Travel Pulse. The survey, which received over 8,000 responses from more than 200 countries, suggests that digital online visas, biometrics in security checkpoints, and more streamlined airport processes, like baggage claim are most important to travelers. Sixty-six percent of travelers want to be able to obtain a visa online before traveling, while 87 percent of travelers would share their information to speed up the airport arrival process. Seventy-four percent desire to go from the curb to the boarding gate with a carry-on bag in only 30 minutes. Ninety-one percent of respondents surveyed said they are interested in an expedited security screening program for trusted travelers. Additionally, the way travelers are thinking about their bags is changing. Home pick-ups and deliveries are desired by 67 percent of travelers, while 77 percent said they’d be more likely to check a bag if they could tag it and check it in before they arrive at the airport. A greater 87 percent desire bag tracking, with 57 percent of travelers already using their own tracking devices to keep an eye on their bags.
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151 WEST 54TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Situated in the heart of Manhattan, experience all New York City has to offer with a stay at Conrad New York Midtown.
Conrad New York Midtown offers discerning business travelers a uniquely spacious and innately residential retreat. Their 562 rooms include expansive suites with unparalleled views of New York City. Step through a generously sized bedroom with classic, residential interiors, a separate dressing area with a large closet space, and workspace furnishings. With the holidays around the corner, get ready to embrace the vibrant energy of New York City this fall.
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9787 KATY FREEWAY
HOUSTON
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The top choice among hotels in the Energy Corridor, Hotel ZaZa Memorial City offers a haven of oversized, well-appointed accommodations and an array of extraordinary meeting and event space. Bringing the style and service of a luxury resort to Houston and elevating the experience of business travel as well as weekend getaways and staycations, this unique boutique hotel boasts a collection of 159 guestrooms, including Concept Suites and The Magnificent Seven Suites accompanied by exceptional dining, signature spa treatments, and a poolside oasis. | |
OMNI BERKSHIRE PLACE HOTEL | |
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21 EAST 52ND STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Breakfast in bed is coming back to the Berk. This December, Omni Berkshire Place Hotel will be reopening room service for breakfast from 6:00 am - 10:00 am. Stay with them and elevate the morning. Currently room service is available for dinner from 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm. | | |
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676 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO
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The all-suite luxury Omni Chicago Hotel is located on Chicago's exclusive Magnificent Mile, steps from luxury boutiques and Chicago’s unrivaled restaurants on Michigan Avenue. Their 347 guest suites offer a unique residential oasis with a main bedroom and living area. The suite design embraces historical elements from the work of Louis Sullivan, synonymous with Chicago architecture. 676 Restaurant & Bar showcases local ingredients from Chicago’s Green City Market and is a perfect place for pre-dinner cocktails or a nightcap. After a meeting or day exploring The Windy City, enjoy a Peloton workout in the state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness center. Stay near the city’s top attractions of Skydeck Chicago, Millennium Park and the Field Museum of Natural History and create unforgettable memories and experiences at their upscale hotel in Chicago. | |
OMNI LOS ANGELES HOTEL AT CALIFORNIA PLAZA | |
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251 SOUTH OLIVE STREET
LOS ANGELES
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Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza is the perfect choice for a vibrant Los Angeles getaway. The LA hotel is infused with glamor and modern conveniences. Explore the unique culture of neighborhoods, from Santa Monica to Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Grand Central Market are close by. Other LA attractions including Universal Studios and Disneyland are also within easy reach. This hotel offers beautiful accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows highlighting views of Bunker Hill and California Plaza Watercourt. Work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center or heated outdoor lap pool. Then, meet for a drink at their cafes and restaurants. | |
SALAMANDER WASHINGTON, DC | |
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1330 MARYLAND AVENUE SW
WASHINGTON, DC
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As Salamander Washington, DC eagerly awaits the debut of Chef Kwame Onwuachi's bold and imaginative new restaurant set to open in the hotel in 2024, The Salamander Grille has been unveiled as the hotel's interim dining experience through December 2023. Offering breakfast daily and dinner Tuesday - Saturday, Salamander DC presents a concept that embodies excellence and local inspiration, making it the ideal setting to rejuvenate for a productive workday, celebrate clients, or relax with friends.
For stays now through November 30, 2023, Salamander DC is delighted to offer Lawyers Travel clients an exclusive guaranteed complimentary room upgrade at the time of booking. In addition, guests will receive a 10% discount at the renowned Salamander Spa and The Salamander Grille.
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THE CHARTER HOTEL SEATTLE, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON | |
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1610 SECOND AVENUE
SEATTLE
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The spirit of independence and bold design makes The Charter Hotel Seattle, Curio Collection by Hilton a true standout in Downtown Seattle. Guests immerse themselves in modern design and elevated décor that is full of authentic charm and character. The gateway for all of Seattle’s best adventures, this boutique hotel in downtown Seattle offers luxurious accommodations, unparalleled details, artisanal dining, fitness and wellness center, and 10,000 square feet of event space, embodying the chic style and electric vibe that makes Seattle so special. | | |
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210 WEST RITTENHOUSE SQUARE
PHILADELPHIA
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The Rittenhouse Hotel places the emphasis on refined elegance. These are the very finest Philadelphia luxury accommodations, matching the charm of Rittenhouse Square and complementing the city's rich history. The Rittenhouse Hotel rooms and suites, as well as the newly built park suites offer an array of amenities and services. The Rittenhouse Hotel has a mix of 118 guest rooms and suites, but the sheer size of the regular accommodations makes each one feel special. At The Rittenhouse Hotel the focus is solely on guest’s comfort to ensure that they will enjoy their stay. | |
WALDORF ASTORIA ATLANTA BUCKHEAD | |
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3376 PEACHTREE ROAD NE
ATLANTA
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The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead's location in Atlanta’s stylish Buckhead neighborhood places guests in the center of the city’s cultural, dining, and fashion scenes. The boutiques and restaurants of Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square are a five-minute walk away, and their indoor pool, Waldorf Astoria Spa, and private English gardens provide a tranquil escape. A guest stay includes a personal concierge to ensure an unforgettable stay. | |
GBT Travel Services UK Limited (GBT UK) and its authorized sublicensees (including Ovation Travel Group and Egencia) use certain trademarks and service marks of American Express Company or its subsidiaries (American Express) in the “American Express Global Business Travel” and “American Express GBT Meetings & Events” brands and in connection with its business for permitted uses only under a limited license from American Express (Licensed Marks). The Licensed Marks are trademarks or service marks of, and the property of, American Express. GBT UK is a subsidiary of Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE: GBTG). American Express holds a minority interest in GBTG, which operates as a separate company from American Express. | | | | |
