JULY 26, 2023

EU TO LAUNCH ETIAS VISA WAIVER REQUIREMENT IN 2024


The European Union (EU) plans to launch its previously announced European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2024 after delaying its release several times over the past three years. ETIAS is an electronic entry authorization system designed to screen and register non-EU travelers as a way to protect and strengthen European borders.


While the EU has not released an exact launch date, it is expected that early next year visa-exempt travelers from over 60 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, will be required to obtain an ETIAS waiver prior to entering any of the 30 member countries. ETIAS member countries include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. 


Travelers planning a trip to an ETIAS member country will be required to fill out an online application granting them permission to visit. Applying for an ETIAS will only take about 10 minutes and should be completed at least five days prior to departure. To apply, travelers must have a valid passport from an eligible country, travel details, debit or credit card, and email address. Applicants between the ages of 18 and 70 will pay a €7 (~$7.75) processing fee.


Most applicants will receive an approval email within minutes, but in some cases the process may take up to 30 days. Once approved, the ETIAS waiver will be valid for three years, or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. Travelers with an ETIAS waiver will be allowed to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.


While no action is required at this time, travelers should be aware of the upcoming ETIAS requirement. We will continue to provide updates as they become available. Click "Read More" for full details from the EU's official website.

DELTA OPENS NEW SKY CLUB AT JFK AIRPORT


Delta Air Lines has announced the opening of a second Delta Sky Club at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Located at Terminal 4 near Gate A7, the Sky Club is nearly 1,400 square feet, featuring seating for more than 250 guests and a covered Sky Deck. It also includes a 360-degree premium bar, fireplace lounge, and tucked-away sections that provide more privacy, including four soundproof booths. “This new Club is beautifully designed and packed with special details that reflect the magic of New York City,” said Claude Roussel, Managing Director — Delta Sky Club. “But much more important than that, it’s a place where our people can deliver Delta Sky Club’s signature hospitality, making each guest feel welcomed and cared for from the moment they step inside.” The new Sky Club will operate alongside Delta’s first club location on Terminal 4, Concourse B, bringing the total guest capacity to over 800.

US DOMESTIC AIR TICKET PRICES DROPPED AGAIN IN JUNE


The average price for a domestic roundtrip air ticket in June was $555, down from $562 in May, reports Business Travel News. According to Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) monthly report, the average price in June represented an eight percent decrease year-over-year. It is the third month in a row with a year-over-year decline. US air ticket sales, however, have increased two percent from a year prior to $8.1 billion, while total passenger trips went up three percent to nearly 22.3 million year-over-year. Additionally, international trips increased ten percent from 2022 to nearly 8.7 million. "Air travel's resiliency was on full display through the first half of 2023," said ARC chief commercial officer Steve Solomon. "Despite some economic headwinds, both business and leisure travelers showed strong demand, airlines continued to add flights, and travel agency sales continued to increase."

HOUSE APPROVES FAA REAUTHORIZATION BILL


The House of Representatives has approved a five-year Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill, reports Travel Weekly. The bill, which passed by a margin of 351-69, aims to make improvements to efficacy and operations at the FAA, expand the workforce for the aviation industry, invest in airport infrastructure, and improve the general public’s experience for air travel. The bill will now be referred to the Senate, where progress on FAA reauthorization has been stalled in the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. The deadline for passage of a reconciled bill is September 30. The US Travel Association praised the bill stating, "The United States requires a more modern, efficient and secure air travel system to meet increasing demand and grow the U.S. economy," CEO Geoff Freeman said. "The bipartisan House bill is a critical step in correcting years of federal underinvestment, which has left the system with 1,200 fewer air traffic controllers than a decade ago."

CONRAD NEW YORK MIDTOWN

151 WEST 54TH STREET

NEW YORK CITY

Experience all Manhattan has to offer with a stay at Conrad New York Midtown. This hotel 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 to complete any business stay. Start the day with a hearty breakfast buffet at Dabble or grab a coffee by La Colombe on the go.

FAIRMONT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH

900 RENE-LEVESQUE BOULEVARD W

MONTREAL

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel stands above the Central Train Station in the very heart of downtown. Just a few minutes’ walk south, the old stone streets of the iconic Old Montreal District are trodden by those who come to enjoy its stores, its popular restaurants, or its relaxation areas near the wharves jutting out into the St. Laurent. 


Embracing the timeless chic of the Fairmont brand, this hotel has been tastefully designed and welcomes guests in 950 rooms throughout 21 floors. Offering a prized view of the Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, the 3 highest floors are dedicated to their Fairmont Gold offering which accommodates visitors seeking an even more luxurious experience. 65 years after the opening of what is still the largest hotel in Eastern Canada, this establishment features a restaurant, the Rosélys, a bar and terrace, Nacarat, a boutique and restaurant area, the Marché Artisans, and a café, the ever-popular Kréma. 

HOTEL MONTERA MADRID, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

C. DE LA MONTERA, 47, 28013

MADRID

Almost 100 years after its construction in 1924, the building is getting dressed up to become the new Hotel Montera Madrid, Curio Collection by Hilton, a clear benchmark for casual luxury in the capital of Spain, which just opened its doors recently in April as the first 5 stars Hilton hotel in the city. 


A unique concept developed by the internationally acclaimed interior designer Lázaro Rosa Violán. The hotel has 93 rooms, 8 of them spacious and bright suites with unbeatable views of Madrid’s Gran Vía and Montera street. 


On the rooftop of Hotel Montera Madrid, Curio Collection by Hilton, the city’s skyline merges with the vibrant life of the two streets that surround the building. Guests will have access to the pool/solarium, Balinese beds and the option of tapas and cocktails at El Cielo de Chicote, their famous cocktail bar.


Guests receive a complimentary welcome drink at Hotel Montera Madrid, Curio Collection by Hilton.

HOTEL ZAZA AUSTIN

400 LAVACA STREET

AUSTIN

Guests find themselves exactly where they want to be in the vibrant heart of downtown Austin. Surrounded by world-class restaurants, shopping, and entertainment, Hotel ZaZa Austin offers both business and leisure travelers unparalleled comfort, style, and convenience in an ideal location.


Chic rooms with upscale décor offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars, as well as marble bathrooms. Upgraded rooms add balconies and/or sofas, and individually decorated suites feature separate living areas, washer/dryers, and/or kitchenettes. There are 2 hip restaurants, and a plush lounge with outdoor seating. Other amenities include a rooftop pool with a bar and cushioned loungers, plus a spa and gym. Valet parking is available.

LOEWS CORAL GABLES HOTEL

2950 COCONUT GROVE DRIVE

CORAL GABLES

Experience the refined hospitality of Loews Coral Gables Hotel and make it a summer to remember. Featuring 242 beautifully designed guestrooms, curated amenities, and a rooftop pool, guests can enjoy the best of the City Beautiful. From tropical weather to city events and Summerfest by Loews Hotels cultural safaris, spritz cocktails, and more, the newest Loews Coral Gables Hotel is the ideal place to call home in Miami. Savor local flavors at Americana Kitchen, Americana Bar, Miami Joe Coffee Co., and Phineas. Retreat to The Spa for restorative wellness offerings. Explore the area with easy access to the iconic Miracle Mile and enjoy The Plaza Coral Gables’ retail, premium dining and collection of public art. 


Lawyers Travel clients can enhance their Loews Coral Gables Hotel stay with exclusive perks including a complimentary upgrade and late check-out (based on availability).

NEW YORK HILTON MIDTOWN

1335 6TH AVENUE

NEW YORK CITY

Located opposite the Museum of Modern Art, New York Hilton Midtown is surrounded by subway and bus lines. Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall are two blocks away and they’re a short walk from Central Park. Grand Central Station, Broadway, and Times Square are within a mile. Enjoy sweeping city views, seasonal dishes from their restaurant, and the fitness center. Their elegant guestrooms and suites overlook the bustle of midtown and Manhattan’s iconic skyline. All their rooms feature Hilton Serenity beds, a work desk, and Wi-Fi access. 

NOELLE

200 4TH AVENUE NORTH

NASHVILLE

With Printers Alley at her back and the glow of Broadway a block away, Noelle Nashville has long been at the center of the hustle and bustle that fuels this eclectic city. 


Business travelers are able to blend work and play seamlessly. Noelle provides an authentic Nashville experience with walkability to downtown shops, restaurants, and attractions, as well as the ease of access that all business travelers seek. They invite guests to enjoy exclusive extras, from a 24-hour hydration station on every floor to complimentary morning coffee, making for an unforgettable experience at Noelle in Nashville.


Book a weekday stay now until the end of August and receive a $15 dining credit to be used for Drug Store Coffee, Makeready, The Trade Room, and Rare Bird.

SOFITEL CHICAGO MAGNIFICENT MILE

20 EAST CHESTNUT STREET

CHICAGO

This summer, guests at Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile will be transported to the South of France by savoring cold refreshing cocktails, listening to live, upbeat music, smelling the bouquets of lavender and rosemary, feeling the warmth of the sun on their skin, and watching the beautiful sunset all from La Terrace. This French-inspired experience plays into all five senses all summer long. The mural this year still features their beloved Marianne, the symbol of the French Revolution, but takes a different spin, as they view her daydreaming of her time spent in St. Tropez.  


Now through October 31,2023, Lawyers Travel clients can enjoy complimentary early check in and late checkout. Based on availability at the time of stay. 

THE BILTMORE LOS ANGELES

506 SOUTH GRAND AVENUE

LOS ANGELES

Discover the historic Biltmore hotel in downtown Los Angeles. Classic elegance steeped in Hollywood glamour. Soon to be celebrating their 100-year anniversary – and having recently added the ‘Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument’ accolade to their mantle – The Biltmore Los Angeles is the grand dame of downtown and this district’s most historic hotel.


This beaux-arts institution has impressed guests and locals since the glory days of Old Hollywood, capable of entertaining a galaxy of stars, dignitaries, and presidents from around the world. Having played host to a golden-era prohibition nightclub, numerous Academy Awards ceremonies, and feature film sets throughout the years – guests will wish these gilt walls and painted ceilings could talk. 


Three ornate towers stretch above the ballrooms below, giving guests a view of the stunning Pershing Square. And with the booming arts and cultural scene of downtown Los Angeles just outside, guests can easily explore and discover the true spirit of Tinseltown. 

THE CLIFT ROYAL SONESTA SAN FRANCISCO

495 GEARY STREET

SAN FRANCISCO

Discover The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco, a newly renovated historic hotel. Located only one block from San Francisco’s busy Union Square district, the hotel is walking distance from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and the Ferry Building. Its strategic location makes commuting a breeze. At the same time, generous services and amenities will elevate any business trip from an assignment to a unique experience. From refined guest rooms and a modern lobby experience to its renowned bars and restaurants, The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco is imbued with a sophisticated style that fuses the hotel’s original craftsmanship with modern-day San Francisco. In addition to a great stay, unlike any event and meeting space around, the distinguished meeting spaces at the hotel offer never-before-seen settings for guests’ next meeting, event, or conference.  

THE ROYAL SONESTA WASHINGTON, DC DUPONT CIRCLE

2121 P STREET NW

WASHINGTON, DC

Guests treat themselves to an upscale experience at The Royal Sonesta Washington, DC Dupont Circle. Tucked inside the cosmopolitan Dupont Circle neighborhood, this Washington, DC boutique hotel offers tastefully appointed guest rooms and specialty suites. Stay within minutes of George Washington University, the White House, the Kennedy Zoo, and key DC monuments. Enjoy a plethora of amenities, including 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, onsite fitness facilities, an outdoor pool, and more. 

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