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DELTA TO DEBUT PREMIUM LOUNGES AND MORE IN 2024
Delta Air Lines has announced that it is launching its premium lounge experience in 2024, bringing a new level of service and hospitality to travelers at several airports across the country including Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). JFK’s premium lounge will be a 38,000 square foot space that features both a full-service brasserie and a chef-assisted market with open kitchens, dedicated wellness areas, and more. Just like Delta Sky Clubs, each location will include elements inspired by and unique to its host city. “We want each of our guests to receive a highly personalized and dedicated level of service,” said Claude Roussel, Vice President, Delta Sky Club and Lounge Experience. “It’s not enough to have beautiful spaces and exceptional offerings. Premium lounge customers should feel welcomed and known when they walk in the door, just as they would at their favorite hotel or restaurant. We look forward to providing that warm welcome and making ‘premium’ feel personal for each guest.” In total, Delta will open five new lounges this year, adding more than 2,700 seats to its lounge network between 2023 and 2024.
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AMTRAK UNVEILS SELF CHECK-IN PROCESS ON SOME ACELA TRAINS
Amtrak has begun using self-check technology on a limited number of its Acela trains in the Northeast Corridor, reports Travel Pulse. The new process will be available through the Amtrak app and allow travelers to validate their train tickets once aboard the train. On trips where self-check-in is available, a “Check In” button will display within the app. Travelers will then scan a barcode located above their seat in order to complete the process. When the train’s conductor passes through a train car, they will be able to tell which travelers have already checked in and validated tickets on their own. "Amtrak debuted a pilot voluntary self-check-in feature on select Acela First Class trains in December to evaluate if it could improve the onboard experience for our customers and employees. We look forward to evaluating its results to determine potential next steps," Amtrak officials said. Currently, self-check-in is only available in first class; however, it may be implemented in business class in the future.
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FLIGHT ATTENDANTS PICKET FOR HIGHER WAGES, BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS
Flight attendants at major US airlines picketed and held rallies at 30 airports this week as they push for new contracts and higher wages, reports USA Today. This comes as a result of increasing frustration over the fact that pilots received significant pay raises last year while flight attendants continue to work for wages that, in some cases, have not increased in several years. They argue that they have not been compensated for working through the pandemic and being responsible for the safety of travelers. Protests were organized by three separate flight attendant unions; the Association of Flight Attendants, which represents crews at United Airlines and several other carriers; the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, the union of crews at American; and the Transport Workers Union, which represents crews at Southwest and other airlines. The unions have deemed the protests a national day of action, not a strike.
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MOST AMERICANS SAY AIR TRAVEL IS SAFE DESPITE RECENT INCIDENTS
A recent study conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, shows that 7 in 10 US adults feel planes are a “very” or “somewhat” safe method of travel, reports Associated Press. The poll, which was conducted with over 1,000 participants nationwide, came as a result of the January 5 Alaska Airlines incident, which led to the grounding of more than 140 planes and raised questions about Boeing’s ongoing manufacturing problems. Even with maintenance concerns, US adults have higher confidence that airline pilots and air traffic controllers are well-trained and engaged in proper safety procedures. That may be because flying is still much safer than driving or rail travel on a per-mile basis, according to Department of Transportation (DOT). About one-quarter of US adults say they travel by plane at least a few times a year when traveling long distances. Those frequent flyers are more likely to have higher confidence in all categories: that airplanes are being properly maintained, are safe from structural faults, air traffic controllers are well-trained, pilots are well-trained, government agencies have enacted the necessary safety regulations, and that it’s safe from terrorist acts.
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DULLES BECOMES FIRST US AIRPORT TO OFFER GLOBAL ENTRY ENROLLMENT ON DEPARTURE
Starting this week, travelers flying out of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) will be able to complete their Global Entry enrollment on departure, becoming the first airport to allow applicants to do so, reports Travel Market Report. While other airports do have Global Entry Enrollment Centers, travelers had previously had to schedule appointments through the CBP’s Enrollment on Arrival program or schedule them on non-travel days. Now, at IAD, international travelers who are conditionally approved can complete the process before departure. IAD will offer the interviews from 12 pm through 8 pm ET each day at its Enrollment on Departure Center inside Concourse B, Gate B4. All applicants should arrive early for their flight and bring all required documents, including a physical document providing evidence of residency (a driver's license, mortgage statement, rental payment statement, utility bill, or other document that shows a current address). Applicants will also have to have their international ticket as only those on international flights will be able to take advantage of the Enrollment on Departure option.
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100 SOUTH GRAND AVENUE
LOS ANGELES
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Conrad Los Angeles, the West Coast flagship and first California property for Conrad Hotels & Resorts, opened its doors July 6, 2022 as part of The Grand LA. Designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry with world-renowned interior design from Tara Bernerd & Partners, the 305-room luxury hotel features an interior design aesthetic inspired by Gehry’s captivating architecture. The property features bold and contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows; an elevated indoor and outdoor lobby; a rejuvenating spa; private pool deck offering views of downtown, and much more. The award-winning hotel is home to several original concepts from José Andrés Group, including signature restaurant San Laurel and rooftop restaurant Agua Viva. Perfectly situated among some of the city’s most prominent cultural venues including Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grand Park, and The Broad, the property will serve as a true destination within a destination.
Enjoy an exclusive $299 room rate and double Hilton Honors points until March 31, 2024.
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950 NEW YORK AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Estuary, located on the third floor of the Conrad Washington, DC, is offering a special three-course menu with an optional wine pairing available on Valentine’s Day. Reservations are recommended. Enjoy a live harpist from 5:00-8:00 pm and poems on demand from 6:00-8:00 pm in the hotel’s atrium. | |
Take a rest in this newly branded Hilton hotel in Boston’s premier Back Bay location. Hilton Boston Park Plaza offers 1,060 rooms and suites with modern amenities and historic charm. Boston Common and the Public Garden are steps away from them, while Beacon Hill and the Theater District are within a half-mile. They boast 70,000 square feet of event space and their dedicated team will help bring any gathering to life. As one of Boston’s most historic hotels, they are rooted in community and committed to growing the people and places that make their city thrive. | | |
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401 NORTH HIGH STREET
COLUMBUS
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Hilton Columbus Downtown boasts a central presence in Columbus, Ohio. Situated in the heart of the Short North Arts District and adjacent to the Arena District, the hotel is located just steps from over 150 dining and entertainment venues. As a dining destination itself, the hotel offers many food & beverage concepts, including: FYR Short North, their signature live fire restaurant; Stories on High, Columbus' tallest rooftop bar; Spark, an elevated lounge featuring Latin-inspired small plates, local brews and modern twists on some favorite cocktails, and others. Unwind with a visit to their indoor saline pool and choice of two fitness centers. Rest and relax in their modern guest rooms equipped with all guest’s technology needs. Book a stay at this sophisticated hotel and enjoy all the efficiencies a business traveler could ask for. | | |
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455 NORTH PARK DRIVE
CHICAGO
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Come visit the Windy City and be welcomed like family. Centrally located with easy access to Chicago’s top attractions including Navy Pier, Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile and more, Loews Chicago Hotel welcomes guests with Midwestern hospitality and memorable service and amenities. With 400 guestrooms, including 25 luxurious suites, guests can enjoy city and lake views while feeling at home. Start the day with a dip in the 75-foot meter in-door pool before enjoying breakfast at ETA Restaurant and Bar, serving seasonally and locally sourced classic American fare. Streeterville Social, the outdoor rooftop terrace, boasts sweeping city views of the city, craft cocktails, and creative bites. When looking for something on the go, stop by For Five Coffee Roasters in the lobby for freshly brewed beverages, sandwiches, salads, and pastries all made in-house. | | |
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601 NORTH FIRST AVENUE
MINNEAPOLIS
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Loews Minneapolis Hotel welcomes guests like family for a productive and enjoyable business trip. Located in the center of the Twin Cities, the hotel offers friendly and attentive staff, modern décor, and beautifully appointed accommodations. Enjoy a variety of in-room amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, additional electrical outlets at the workstation and bedside, bedside reading lamps, and chic, comfortable linens. Travelers can get their blood pumping with a workout in the Fitness Center, complete with two fully connected Peloton bikes. Start the day off right with breakfast at Cosmos, available from 7-11 a.m. daily. When off the clock, stop by Apothecary Bar & Lounge, located off the lobby, for a handcrafted cocktail or local brew.
Enjoy complimentary early check-in, based on availability.
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500 CALIFORNIA STREET
SAN FRANCISCO
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With a front door on the historic California Street cable car line, the Financial District location is steps away from the Ferry Building, Union Square, North Beach. The Omni San Francisco Hotel pride’s themselves on offering a personal touch each visit, and their luxury accommodations include daily housekeeping and their Select Guest complimentary morning beverage delivery. Additional services include breakfast at Monte’s Restaurant, a new dinner menu offered in Monte’s Bar, as well as In Room Dining in all guest rooms.
For each stay during the month of February 2024, travelers receive a complimentary upgrade (based on availability) and Welcome Amenity. Stay with them and help “Say Goodnight to Hunger”: For each stay Omni will donate one meal for a family of four to a local family in need – with 22 million meals donated since the program’s inception in June 2016.
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900 F STREET NORTHWEST
WASHINGTON, DC
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To step inside their soaring entrance is to become a part of the past, present, and future of Penn Quarter. Sophisticated, yet comfortable, each room at Riggs Washington DC has something personal and unexpected, designed to evoke the thrill of opening a safety-deposit box—a playful nod to the building’s history as an iconic bank.
From January 15, 2024 - March 31, 2024, Lawyers Travel clients enjoy two (2) complimentary cocktails in Café Riggs and upgrade upon availability.
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THE MAY FAIR, A RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL | |
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Since 1927, The May Fair has been a place where people simply want to be. With an iconic address and unforgettable charm, the hotel exudes the elegance of London’s most exclusive neighborhood.
Located a block off Green Park adjacent to Berkeley Square in the heart of May Fair. Sip a refreshing cocktail in May Fair Bar or make a reservation at the newly reopened May Fair Kitchen – a brand new Japanese izakaya and Italian restaurant experience.
Enjoy a complimentary upgrade from a Collection Superior Room to a Collection Premium Room, valid for stays until March 31, 2024.
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FIFTH AVENUE AT CENTRAL PARK SOUTH
NEW YORK CITY
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Since its debut on October 1, 1907, The Plaza Hotel has remained a New York icon hosting world leaders, dignitaries, captains of industry, Broadway legends, and Hollywood royalty. As an established staple for lavish society affairs and blockbuster films, The Plaza has welcomed guests from around the world to enjoy its magic at the castle on Central Park South for more than 100 years. Ideally situated on Fifth Avenue, The Plaza’s prestigious address continues to define elegance with unmatched service and an ever-evolving modern sensibility.
Offering 282 distinctive guestrooms including 102 luxurious suites, The Plaza continues to strike the balance between its storied past and limitless future with the launch of the Legacy Suite collection. Classic crown molding is juxtaposed against contemporary works of art and lavish fabrics, adding vibrant textural elements to The Plaza’s guestrooms complete with dramatic lighting and beautifully finished woodwork to amplify the impeccable motif.
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1700 SMITH STREET
HOUSTON
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Located in downtown Houston, The Whitehall shines with iconic mid-century architecture, gracious Southern hospitality, and award-winning cuisine. Whether for business or leisure travel, The Whitehall reigns as Houston’s premier destination. The dedicated staff has been delivering sophisticated Texas style with each and every experience since 1963. The Whitehall is home to three welcoming eateries, each offering an authentic take on local cuisine. Enjoy spacious rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor pool, and free shuttle service in the local area.
Stay at The Whitehall from February 16th to June 15th and enjoy a complimentary cocktail outside at Part & Parcel, or inside at Edgar’s Hermano.
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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. | | | | |
