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PASSPORT WAIT TIMES ARE UP AS DEMAND FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INCREASES
The US Department of State has announced that passport processing times are up again as demand for international travel continues to rise. According to the State Department, they are on track to set the record for the highest demand year ever, surpassing volumes seen during previous surges in demand in 2007 and 2017. As a result, processing times for passport renewals have increased to 8-11 weeks, with expedited services increasing to 5-7 weeks. The department encourages all travelers to check their passport expiration date before making any plans for international travel, and to take action to renew their passport well in advance this year. "We are addressing the increased workload through a number of efforts. We are aggressively recruiting and hiring across our passport agencies and centers. Our passport team members nationwide contribute tens of thousands of hours of overtime a month to issue the millions of passports sought by traveling Americans. We have opened a satellite office to help process the large number of applications we are receiving," the department stated in their press release.
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US PLANS TO LIFT COVID-19 TESTING FOR TRAVELERS FROM CHINA
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is set to end mandatory COVID-19 tests for travelers from China on March 10, reports Skift. In January, the US implemented new rules requiring travelers on airlines arriving from China to show a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than two days before departing from China, Hong Kong, or Macao after COVID-19 cases began to surge. The decision of the US to drop testing requirements come one week after Japan announced that it will lift coronavirus-related restrictions on Chinese arrivals. The US government said it will continue to monitor COVID-19 cases in China and around the world to adjust the protocols as necessary.
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AMERICAN AIRLINES LAUNCHES UPDATED AADVANTAGE PROGRAM
Americans Airlines has announced that it has launched its enhanced AAdvantage program with new benefits and the ability to earn rewards more often, as well as giving members more options to customize their travel experiences through Loyalty Point Rewards. As of March 1, AAdvantage loyalty members are receiving new benefits, including bonuses for shopping with some of American’s partners and status with the airline’s preferred car partner. American has also removed the previous 75,000 limit on miles that a member could earn on a single ticket. Members can redeem miles earned for flights based on the ticket price and status through Loyalty Points, including Gold status at 40,000, Platinum at 75,000, Platinum Pro at 125,000 and Executive Platinum at 200,000. “We’re creating a more meaningful travel rewards program for our AAdvantage members,” American Chief Commercial Officer Vasu Raja said. “Achieving status will unlock an even wider world of unique experiences with the airline and our partners. With these and other innovations to come, we are continuing to deliver on our commitment that travel is better when you’re an AAdvantage member.”
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TSA ISSUES NEW CYBERSECURITY REQUIREMENTS FOR AIRPORT & AIRCRAFT OPERATORS
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued a new cybersecurity amendment for airport and aircraft operators as part of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) efforts to increase the cybersecurity resilience of US critical infrastructure, reports Travel Pulse. The new regulations by the TSA are aimed at enabling operational technology systems to safely run in case of a breach of an information technology system and vice versa. Under the new amendment, TSA-regulated entities will be required to develop an approved implementation plan, outlining the actions taken to boost their cybersecurity resilience and avoid infrastructure disruption. They must also implement continuous monitoring and detection policies and lower exploitation risk of unpatched systems via application of security patches and updates for operating systems. “Protecting our nation’s transportation system is our highest priority and TSA will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders across all transportation modes to reduce cybersecurity risks and improve cyber resilience to support safe, secure and efficient travel,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “This amendment to the aviation security programs extends similar performance-based requirements that currently apply to other transportation system critical infrastructure.”
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DOJ IS SUING TO BLOCK THE JETBLUE-SPIRIT MERGER
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit to block JetBlue's bid to merge with Spirit Airlines, arguing that the deal will lead to higher fares and fewer choices for air travelers, reports Travel Weekly. "The merger of JetBlue and Spirit would result in higher fares and fewer choices for tens of millions of travelers, with greatest impact felt by those who rely on what are known as ultralow-cost carriers in order to fly," attorney general Merrick Garland said during a Tuesday press conference. The lawsuit alleges that the merger would violate federal antitrust statutes in the US airline market by eliminating competition between JetBlue and Spirit; reducing overall consumer choice; facilitating increased coordination between JetBlue and other airlines; and by causing higher tickets prices along with less passenger capacity. Additionally, the suit states that the merger would have an anticompetitive impact on more than 150 nonstop and connecting routes (including 40 nonstop routes that both carriers serve) affecting more than 30 million annual travelers. JetBlue and Spirit responded by restating their position that the merger will benefit consumers by offering a stronger, national, low-fare competitor to American, Delta, Southwest, and United, which together control approximately 80% of the domestic US market.
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Boston Harbor Hotel’s 60-foot archway welcomes guests to a hospitality experience unlike any other. Nestled on beautiful harbor waters, Boston Harbor Hotel’s Forbes Five-Star & AAA Five Diamond urban resort pairs timeless beauty and modern elegance with a hint of magic. From world-class dining to cultural attractions, embark on a long weekend or weekday getaway with more time to discover all Boston has to offer. Guests are invited to Stay Longer, Save More with an additional 30% off when staying two nights or more. Ovation clients can enjoy a 3rd night free at Boston Harbor Hotel now through March 31st, 2023. Bookings must be made by March 28th, 2023. | | |
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102 NORTH END AVENUE
NEW YORK CITY
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Located in downtown Manhattan, the 463 all-suite luxury hotel is less than 10 minutes from the city’s most iconic attractions, including One World Trade Observatory, Tribeca, Greenwich Village, SoHo, and Wall Street. Experience panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty from the Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar. Business travelers can meet in the 30,000 square feet of event space spanning two floors. Experience separate sleeping and living areas with stylish interiors and dividing, sliding doors. Conrad New York Downtown also offers unique dining options of luxury cuisine in an inviting setting. | |
INTERCONTINENTAL CHICAGO MAGNIFICENT MILE | |
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505 MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO
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Centrally located along Chicago’s most iconic shopping and entertainment corridor, InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is one of the city’s preeminent luxury hotels. The massive property feature 792 rooms, with 477 rooms in the Grand Tower and 315 rooms in the Executive Tower, each equipped with modern design and luxury amenities, including lavish goose-down bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi internet, Premium Agraria bath amenities, and so much more to keep guests comfortable as a home away from home. The property has two restaurants; a breakfast restaurant named Center Court, and restaurant and bar, Michael Jordan’s Steak House, with private dining options available. The hotel also boasts a 3-floor Fitness Center featuring state of the art equipment and Pelotons, Junior Olympic swimming pool, and Spa InterContinental for those days guests just want to relax and unwind. Enjoy the 2-hour business center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and onsite FedEx for any business needs. | |
INTERCONTINENTAL NEW YORK BARCLAY | |
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111 EAST 48TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Since opening its doors in 1926, InterContinental New York Barclay has been intertwined with the city’s vibrant history. Originally part of Grand Central Terminal’s urban design plan, this luxury hotel in New York City has helped shape one of the world’s most important commercial and financial centers. It has hosted legendary guests and has even served as the New York headquarters for a presidential campaign. As the city continues to evolve, so does The Barclay, with spectacular renovations and sustainability initiatives. Perfect for business and leisure, the hotel has now fully returned offering all hotel services and amenities to its discerning guests. Impressive selection of over 700 upscale appointed residential style bedrooms and the Barclay Suite Collection, presenting stunning specialty suites. The Barclay features 20,000 square feet of versatile meeting and events space. In addition, The Parlour carries a rare selection of vintage beverages as well as one-of-a-kind recipes. The Parlour features modern cuisine, complementing the history of the hotel. |  | |
KIMPTON HOTEL MONACO WASHINGTON, DC | |
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700 F STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington, DC is excited to welcome guests this spring. Centrally located in Downtown DC just steps from the White House, US Courts, National Mall, and many DC firms. At Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington, DC, life gets painted with a vibrant brush and a colorful palette. Nothing is ordinary in the grand downtown building, built in 1839 as the city's original General Post Office. It's since been beautifully modernized to flawlessly meld the old and the new. From the moment guests enter the welcoming living room, they will find that the style is eclectic, bold, and playful, and the service highly personable. Ovation clients will receive a complimentary upgrade to the next room category (based on availability at check in) and 1000 Bonus IHG Points per night for all stays now through April 30, 2023. | | |
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200 4TH AVENUE N
NASHVILLE
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Noelle is a carefully considered experience, from the king beds in all rooms to the extensive onsite amenities. With a state-of-the-art fitness center to start mornings off right or an authentic dining experience to enjoy after a busy day of work, Noelle is more than a place for guests to lay their heads—it’s an authentic encounter with Nashville’s vibrant spirit showcased in every corner. A few of the amenities that will enhance a business travel stay are:
- Smart room technology, blackout shades and bedside USB Ports
- Hydration Station on each floor, complete with still, sparkling, and hot water
- Complimentary morning coffee from Drug Store
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- 24-hour fitness center with Peloton bikes and free weights, as well as virtual pilates and yoga classes
- Daily room service
Come settle into a home away from home on the next visit to Noelle.
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11 EAST WALTON STREET
CHICAGO
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Make the prestigious Gold Coast home for the next visit to downtown Chicago. Experience unrivaled elegance that will take guests’ breath away. Start the day off with a traditional breakfast while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of The Brass Tack. Divulge in luxury shopping steps away from the Waldorf Astoria's private cobblestone courtyard or take a walk down the Magnificent Mile. As the day comes to an end, enjoy a classic cocktail at Chicago's landmark lounge, Bernard's, a discrete and exclusive evening destination. Lastly, retire to a luxurious room and unwind next to the in-suite fireplace while enjoying the dazzling views of the downtown cityscape.
Earn 3,000 Hilton Honors Points at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago from now until April 30, 2023.
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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 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. | | | | |
