OCTOBER 6, 2021
OVATION OFFERS TRAVEL RESOURCES GUIDE REGARDING COVID-19


At Ovation, we remain committed to providing excellent service to our valued clients throughout the COVID-19 global pandemic. Click the link below to view our travel resources guide which includes traveler health & safety information, interactive risk maps, client communications, travel management best practices, webinar recordings, and more regarding COVID-19.

A new Senate bill would require all travelers on domestic airline flights to prove they are COVID-free prior to boarding, reports USA Today. The US Air Travel Public Safety Act, introduced by California Senator Dianne Feinstein, would require all US travelers to be fully vaccinated, test negatively for COVID-19 within 72 hours of departure, or show proof of recent recovery from the virus before boarding a domestic flight. The bill builds upon the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) current air travel requirement, which has all travelers flying into the US from a foreign country show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of recovery from COVID-19. Various health experts have expressed support for vaccine mandates on flights. Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Biden's chief medical adviser and the nation's top infectious disease expert, said during an interview in September that air travelers should also be subject to a vaccine mandate in order to fly.

A bill approved by the House of Representatives would allow Americans flying home from an international destination to be screened just once without having to go through additional rescreening before continuing from their airport of entry to a connecting destination, reports Travel Weekly. The One-Stop Pilot Program Act (H.R. 4094) won House approval by a voice vote on September 29 and has now been received in the Senate, where it will be heard by the transportation committee. The bill would authorize the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), in coordination with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to conduct the trial at up to six foreign airports. As a safeguard, participating airports would have to conduct their screenings using standards that are deemed by TSA to be comparable to US procedures. In addition, travelers arriving in the US would not be allowed to access their checked baggage until arriving at their final destinations.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has begun the final construction phases of the new Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), reports Airport Technology. As part of the Terminal A Redevelopment Program, the gates in the A1 Concourse have been shut down, as parts of the existing gates need to be demolished. Accordingly, there has been a shift in flight operations, which could lead to an increase in wait times during peak hours. In a statement, PANYNJ said, “As a result, Terminal A travelers are urged to arrive no later than two hours prior to scheduled departure times, in view of the temporary, six-month reduction in Terminal A gates.” The two airlines experiencing the direct impact due to the closures are Air Canada and JetBlue. Both these airlines are shifting flights to the other two gate areas of Terminal A. In addition, JetBlue is moving some flights to Terminal B in response to the shutdown. Meanwhile, American, Alaska, and United Express will continue their operations as usual in the Terminal A2 and A3 concourses.

Emirates has signed a new multi-year, world-wide distribution agreement with Sabre, the largest US Global Distribution System (GDS) used by travel management companies, after the airline had let its previous deal with Sabre expire at the end of June 2021. As of October 5, all travel agencies using Sabre GDS once again have access to surcharge-free Emirates’ content. This new agreement ensures that Ovation clients have full access to Emirates fares for all online and offline bookings. Click "Read More" for additional details about the new agreement published by AP News.

Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is becoming an increasing entry requirement for businesses, events, and even travel destinations. As such, some countries have launched national “vaccine passports,” or digital vaccine certificates, in order to streamline the security process while traveling, and to provide reliable and consistent means of providing proof of vaccination when required. In the US, the decision to create a digital vaccine system is left up to individual states. Because of this, the options available in each state often vary widely—from vaccine access via mobile apps that contain scannable QR codes, to online portals where individuals can access and download their vaccine records, to mail-in requests for hard-copies of vaccine records, to a ban on the issuance and use of vaccine passports. In some instances, access to vaccine records has changed due to recent state legislation. For example, Iowa previously offered a public access portal for accessing vaccine records, but discontinued its use in response to a May law “prohibiting the mandatory disclosure of whether a person has received a vaccination for COVlD-19.”

For travelers and others that would like the option of a vaccine passport, Ovation has put together a chart of where each state currently stands as of October 5, including relevant links to portals, press releases, legislation, etc. Following that, we’ve provided general options for digital vaccine records. Click "Read More" to view the chart with each state's status regarding vaccination passports.

The Parking Spot, the leading near-airport parking company in the US, is offering Ovation clients double points on parking through October 31. To receive this discount, travelers must be a Spot Club Member, register, and make a reservation with a check-in date by 10/31/21. Existing Ovation Spot Club Members can enter their email address at https://cloud.email.theparkingspot.com/Fall-2021-2x-points to register for the discount. Those who are not members, can click "Read More" to sign up and create an account. Additionally, travelers can also sign up through the Parking Spot mobile app, available for download on iPhone and Android, using the corporate account code: OVA1760. All new users will automatically be enrolled to earn double points.
APEX TEMPLE COURT HOTEL
1-2 SERJEANT'S INN, TEMPLE
LONDON
Nestled in the heart of London’s Fleet Street, just moments from Covent Garden, a new type of luxury awaits. Stylish interiors are matched by a beautiful historic façade, and guests can choose from majestic suites or chic city center hideaways.

From luxurious stays in a two-bedroom suite to cozy hideaways in the heart of the capital, the hotel has the perfect room waiting. Chic interiors, plenty of space, and lots of little luxuries to give that home away from home vibe.
FAIRMONT COPLEY PLAZA
138 ST. JAMES AVENUE
BOSTON
The Fairmont Copley Plaza, the "Grande Dame of Boston," has charmed guests for over a century. In the heart of the city's famed Back Bay neighborhood, this historic landmark hotel connects guests to the quintessential Boston experience – nearby, guests will find many of the city's finest sights and activities, from the historic Freedom Trail to the fashionable boutiques of Newbury Street. A luxury four-diamond property, the hotel offers 383 lavish guest rooms, including 17 elegant suites, daily in-room dining service, a complimentary on-site 3,000 square-foot rooftop health club overlooking Back Bay, and is home to one of the hottest drinking and dining destinations in the city, OAK Long Bar + Kitchen. Enjoy creative cocktails and bites on the reimagined patio while people watching in Copley Square. The hotel recently reopened Fairmont Gold, the exclusive lifestyle executive floor, which offers a level of service and recognition that ensures each stay is nothing short of unforgettable. This includes a private check-in, dedicated staff and concierge, and complimentary access to the exclusive Lounge and its perks, like daily breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres.
GALLERIA PARK HOTEL
191 SUTTER STREET
SAN FRANCISCO
The spirit of adventure, bold style, and iconic history live on at the Galleria Park Hotel. A historic facade belies the all-new interior which is as fashionable as it is comfortable. Enjoy staying on the edge of the Financial District (FiDi), just minutes from Union Square, and have the best of the city at your fingertips. Guests can immerse themselves in elegant accommodations, indulge in elevated French-inspired dining, or plan the social soiree of the year at Galleria Park Hotel. Completely reimagined, elegant rooms and suites are outfitted with custom furnishings and eclectic accents that infuse a sense of vibrant style into the space.
GRAND HYATT NASHVILLE
1000 BROADWAY
NASHVILLE
Voted the #1 Best New Hotel in the US by USA Today, the Grand Hyatt Nashville is redefining what it means to be a downtown urban resort. Featuring seven culinary experiences including The Nashville Grange, a Tennessee to table restaurant offering locally sourced dishes as well as Lou/Na, Nashville's highest hotel rooftop bar, and The Continental, an innovative restaurant concept led by a James Beard award-winning chef. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of all the hotel's amenities which include a fifth-floor pool deck, the world-class spa of R+R Wellness, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The hotel offers more than 84,000 square feet of state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor event space. Located off of famed Broadway within walking distance to all of the best that Music City has to offer and only 15 minutes from the Nashville International Airport.
HYATT REGENCY HOUSTON
1200 LOUISIANA STREET
HOUSTON
This year, the Hyatt Regency Houston celebrates the completion of a multimillion-dollar extensive renovation project. The transformation encompasses its 955 guestrooms, corridors, lobby, main entrances, all meeting and public space as well as its food and beverage venues: Einstein Bother’s Bagels, Shula’s Restaurant and Lobbibar. The hotel was thoughtfully redesigned with today’s modern travelers and executives in mind. Contemporary designs were incorporated with the influences of notorious artists throughout the state that reflect Houston’s reputation as a world-class destination known for its rich history and modern innovations. The hotel is being reintroduced as a “one-stop destination that blends top-notch hospitality, world-class dining and high-end meeting facilities paired with modern comforts and conveniences for business and leisure travelers alike.”
KIMPTON EPIC HOTEL
270 BISCAYANE BOULEVARD WAY
MIAMI
Kimpton EPIC Hotel is arguably one of the only hotels in downtown Miami that artfully blends urbane sophistication with a playful lifestyle spirit. The hotel is a global destination where leisure and business intersect with tropical perfection. As one of the trendiest boutique hotels, in Miami, guests can surround themselves with the Magic City’s shimmering lights from their private balcony (every guest room and suite has one). Splash into two rooftop pools. Enjoy locally sourced global cuisine at two restaurants, then crafted cocktails at the outdoor pool bar. Take a breath (or work up a sweat) at exhale spa. As hotels in downtown Miami go, Kimpton EPIC is designed to provide guests with a luxurious, relaxing stay and exquisite base camp for exploring the sultry destination.
LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE HOTEL
455 MADISON AVENUE
NEW YORK CITY
Inspired by the timeless elegance of an Upper East Side residence, The Royal Suite Collection at Lotte New York Palace represents the ultimate in New York City style and sophistication. Among Manhattan’s largest hotel suites, this premier collection ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet and features glamorous living spaces framed by panoramic skyline views. Custom furnishings, curated artwork, and luxurious Hästens beds, make the Royal Suite Collection among the most sought-after luxury accommodations in New York City.
ONE ALDWYCH
1 ALDWYCH
LONDON
As London’s cultured, independent hotel One Aldwych is a true modern oasis - privately-owned and standing proud where the City meets the West End. This vibrant Covent Garden location is the gateway to the very best of London.

The hotel’s distinctive, triangular building is a local icon and was originally the home of the great Morning Post newspaper. Now its 101 stunning suites and bedrooms are styled as modern residences with clean, contemporary interiors.

Guests and Londoners alike are drawn to the ever-popular Lobby Bar and two stylish restaurants, Indigo and Eneko Basque Kitchen & Bar, for exquisite dining and drinks. The Health Club is the place for 24-hour training in the state-of-the-art gym and relaxation in the 60-foot chlorine-free swimming pool with underwater music or with a sublime spa treatment.

All this and an original art collection of over 300 pieces, plus a robust sustainability agenda including rooftop bees, means there is only one One Aldwych.
THE PENINSULA PARIS
19 AVENUE KLEBER
PARIS
Perfectly situated at 19 Avenue Kléber, The Peninsula Paris sits in the heart of Paris within walking distance of some of the most famous monuments, museums, and luxury shopping districts. The Peninsula Paris houses 200 luxurious rooms, including 86 suites and occupies a historic, restored 19th-century Haussmanian building. The rooms and suites are unparalleled in terms of French elegance and centuries-old traditional Parisian artisanship, with an accent on classic modernity with spacious, open, and luxurious spaces. Each work of art, each piece of bespoke furniture, and each object d’art combine perfectly to create a unique and unsurpassed French experience.

The hotel’s restaurants and lounges comprise some of the City of Light’s most exciting dining and drinking venues, including the Michelin-starred restaurant L’Oiseau Blanc, while The Peninsula Spa is the capital’s largest luxury hotel spa that embraces the best of both of its defining cultures, seamlessly combining the elegance of French beauty and time-honored Asian practices and knowledge.
THE SAVOY
THE STRAND
LONDON
Located in the cultural heart of the city, The Savoy offers 267 luxury guest rooms and suites that are decorated in either an elegant Edwardian or Art Deco style.

The Royal Suite is The Savoy’s flagship suite, running the length of the fifth-floor riverside. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame unparalleled views of the river Thames and London landmarks. To mark the 100th anniversary of the celebrated fashion house, Gucci, the interior of the Royal Suite has been redesigned to be a reflection of the Gucci world, featuring art and antiquities specially curated by auctioneers Christie’s to harmonize with the Gucci aesthetic and the design and heritage of The Savoy. Gucci's founder, Guccio Gucci, worked at The Savoy as a luggage porter when a young man. Seeing the luxurious luggage and elegant clothes of guests was a major impetus in his desire to start his own leather goods company, shortly after his return to Italy from London.
WALDORF ASTORIA CHICAGO
11 EAST WALTON STREET
CHICAGO
The Waldorf Astoria Chicago is a haven of exclusivity with classic Parisian charm. Unforgettable experiences begin the moment guests arrive through the lush, secluded courtyard entrance. An exceptional choice among travelers in Chicago, this iconic chateau-like hotel provides every guest with discreet yet anticipatory service. The hotel is fittingly located in the fashionable Gold Coast neighborhood, just one block from Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

The Waldorf Astoria Chicago is running a 1K Point Hilton Honors Promotion for all Ovation clients until December 31, 2021.
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