JULY 12, 2023

STATE DEPARTMENT LAUNCHES SPECIAL PASSPORT ACCEPTANCE FAIRS TO EASE DELAYS


The US State Department has announced that it is launching a series of Special Passport Acceptance Fairs in an attempt to ease some of the delays for passport application approvals, reports Travel Market Report. The fairs are intended to help first-time applicants and children complete the passport application process in person; travelers with existing passports will still need to renew by mail. Fairs will run through July and August at libraries, post offices, and other venues in a number of cities, mostly in California, Florida, and New Jersey, with a smaller number in Connecticut, Georgia, and Massachusetts. Some of the events require appointments ahead of time, while others are allowing for walk-ins. According to the State Department, new events are added weekly. Travelers can visit the State Department's website for a complete list of upcoming fairs, including links to make appointments.

MAY GLOBAL AIR DEMAND NEAR PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS


Global air travel demand continued its recovery in May, as air traffic approached pre-pandemic levels, reports Business Travel News. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), total May traffic increased 39.1 percent year over year and was at 96.1 percent of May 2019 levels, while capacity was up 35 percent year over year. International traffic increased 40.9 percent year over year and reached 90.8 percent of May 2019 levels. Additionally, domestic traffic was up 36.4 percent versus May 2022 and was 5.3 percent above May 2019 levels. This was the second month in a row where domestic demand outpaced pre-pandemic demand.

JETBLUE WON'T APPEAL NORTHEAST ALLIANCE TERMINATION, BUT AMERICAN WILL


JetBlue has announced that it will not appeal May's federal court order to terminate its Northeast Alliance with American Airlines in the New York and Boston areas, reports Travel Weekly. The carrier will now focus its attention on its acquisition with Spirit Airlines, which is also facing lawsuit from the Department of Justice (DOJ). JetBlue said it had informed American last week of its decision to terminate the three-year-old alliance; although, American still intends to appeal the DOJ's ruling. "JetBlue's decision and reasoning confirm our belief that the NEA has been highly pro-competitive and that an erroneous judicial decision disregarding the NEA's consumer benefits has led to an anticompetitive outcome," American said. "American will therefore move forward with an appeal. JetBlue has been a great partner, and we will continue to work with them to ensure our mutual customers can travel seamlessly without disruption to their travel plans."

UNITED AIRLINES UNVEILS NEW DOMESTIC FIRST-CLASS SEATS


United Airlines has announced a new domestic first-class seat that includes a wireless charging station in every arm rest. The new United First seat also features vegan leather upholstery, 13-inch seatback screens, 18-inch tray tables, Bluetooth connectivity, privacy screens, and an ergonomist-designed cushion. United will debut the seats later this month, with rollout continuing through the summer. The carrier expects the United First option to be available on 200 domestic planes by 2026, including its fleet of 737 NGs, A321neos, and 737 MAXs. "This new United First seat is designed around the modern traveler – more charging options, bigger spaces for devices, food, drinks and personal items and extra privacy," said Mark Muren, United Managing Director of Identity, Product and Loyalty. "As we evolve the onboard experience, we're upending old industry norms and anticipating future needs to accommodate the new ways people live and travel."

FAA INVESTS $90M INTO US AIRPORTS’ NET ZERO AIMS


The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investing over $90 million into airports across the country in order to support the industry’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, reports Airport Technology. The funding will go towards 21 airports, with roughly $46.8 million going towards sustainability projects focusing on the use of solar energy and another $44.5 million spent on electric vehicles and transportation infrastructure. Two of the biggest grants will be going to Indianapolis International Airport (IND), which will receive $22.58 million towards constructing energy efficient infrastructure and installing solar panels, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), which will get $20 million for the design and construction of solar parking structures. Additionally, the biggest electric transportation grant will go to Portland International Airport (PDX), which will receive $16 million to construct zero emissions vehicle infrastructure. Funding will also be granted to airports in the states of Arkansas, California, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah. 

CAMBRIA HOTEL CHICAGO LOOP - THEATRE DISTRICT

32 WEST RANDOLPH STREET

CHICAGO

The Cambria® Hotel Chicago Loop - Theatre District offers upscale accommodations and amenities that help guests get the most of their stay in this exciting city. Catch an award-winning musical at one of the nearby venues, dine at amazing neighborhood restaurants, or simply relax and enjoy the stylish, Chicago-inspired décor in their guest rooms. When visitors stay here, they get the chance to experience the little extras that make travel special.


The hotel’s central location puts guests in the heart of Chicago’s Theatre District. The hotel is located in the same building as the James M. Nederlander Theatre (formerly the Oriental Theatre), and near the Cadillac Palace Theatre, and other legendary auditoriums. World-class shopping on State Street, the urban oasis of Millennium Park and the award-winning Shedd Aquarium are also just a short walk from the hotel. And since they’re just steps from the Red Line and Blue Line trail station, all of Chicago is within easy reach. 


At this hotel, the energy of the Windy City is all around thanks to the Chicago-inspired design elements. While staying in one of the city’s most stunning buildings, visitors will see that the décor offers a distinctly modern take on the city’s iconic style. Booking a stay at their Chicago hotel makes it easy to experience the city’s culture, shopping, restaurants, and more.

FAIRMONT COPLEY PLAZA

138 ST. JAMES AVENUE

BOSTON

At Fairmont Copley Plaza, the "Grande Dame of Boston," they’ve charmed guests for over a century. In the heart of the city's famed Back Bay neighborhood, their historic landmark hotel connects guests to the quintessential Boston experience – nearby visitors will find many of the city's finest sights and activities. A luxury four diamond property, they offer 383 lavish guest rooms, including 17 elegant suites, daily in-room dining service, a complimentary onsite 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 their reimagined patio while people watching in Copley Square. Discerning travelers can elevate their experience on 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 their exclusive Lounge and its perks, like daily breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres.

HALL ARTS HOTEL DALLAS, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

1717 LEONARD STREET

DALLAS

Located in the heart of the Dallas Arts District, the HALL Arts Hotel is across the street from the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Museums, restaurants, and parks are just steps away. They offer upscale amenities, house car service within a five-mile radius, and curated art throughout. Enjoy an in-room spa treatment, views from the rooftop pool, and a 2,900 square feet Fitness Studio. Dine under the sparkling lights of Ellie's restaurant, savor a delicious meal on the terrace, or sip a refreshing cocktail at Waves rooftop pool. Whether going out or staying in, their creative cuisine will inspire.

HOTEL WASHINGTON

515 15TH STREET NW

WASHINGTON, DC

Whether stepping into their buzzing lobby or stepping out into DC, Hotel Washington is an iconic destination for a stay that’s steeped in the culture and history of Washington, DC. Steps from the White House and with unparalleled sophistication, they invite guests to embrace their cultural capital and stay in style — with liberty and comfort for all. Their 11th-floor rooftop bar offers the most stunning views of DC, with cocktails named after the movers and shakers who have visited the hotel. Stylish studios and stunning suites, each filled with creative touches (think: floor-to-ceiling murals and custom headboards). Every stay here is as inspiring as it is comfortable. 

KIMPTON EPIC HOTEL

270 BISCAYNE BOULEVARD WAY

MIAMI

When it comes to luxury hotels in Miami, Kimpton EPIC Hotel is a sultry escape providing the exquisite base camp for exploring Miami. Their gorgeously renovated 411 guestrooms and suites surround guests with an elegantly minimal, organic vibe inspired by the sea. EPIC artfully blends urbane sophistication with a playful lifestyle spirit offering the best of today’s modern-day resorts with the convenience of being close to the extraordinary attributes of Miami. Situated right alongside the buzzing Brickell business district and the lively Biscayne Bay area, Kimpton EPIC’s Downtown Miami location offers an eclectic mix of culture and fun.

LOTTE HOTEL SEATTLE

809 FIFTH AVENUE

SEATTLE

An artful coexistence of historic and modern, Lotte Hotel Seattle is a luxurious gem that honors the Emerald City’s storied heritage through a distinctly opulent vision—one that’s been intentionally imbued into every aspect of their hotel, from the way their spaces were crafted to the sense of intentionality felt in every interaction.


The hotel’s past-meets-present spirit is captured in the juxtaposition of its striking exterior, a modern glass skyscraper almost seamlessly joined to the Sanctuary, one of Seattle’s most treasured historic landmarks. From the mind of world-renowned French industrial designer Philippe Starck come signature twists, from windows unexpectedly placed above bathroom sinks to full-length arched mirrors designed to spark a sense of self-reflection.


Lotte Hotel Seattle quickly took its place among the city’s premier hotels, becoming the only West Coast hotel named in the “Best New Hotel” category of USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. If guests are dreaming of a Seattle hotel with a view, their downtown jewel’s Elliott Bay vistas won’t disappoint.

PAN PACIFIC LONDON

80 HOUNDSDITCH

LONDON

Graceful and luxuriant, Pan Pacific London fuses together meaningful design, boundary-pushing wellbeing, and a myriad of dining and drinking destinations, all close to Liverpool Street Station in London's premium Square Mile. Pan Pacific London is an ideal choice for discerning travelers in search of family friendly hotels in London's city center. With its rich 800-year history, the City of London has a wealth of museums, galleries, green spaces, bars, restaurants, and shops just waiting for you to discover. 


Revel at the beauty of the iconic 17th-century St. Paul’s Cathedral and trace the City’s history at the Museum of London. Walk along the River Thames taking in some of London’s most iconic attractions including Tower Bridge and The Tower of London. Enjoy music and theater in the Square Mile or discover great locations from gardens in the city to heaths, commons, and ancient woodlands further afield.

ROSEWOOD SAND HILL

2825 SAND HILL ROAD

MENLO PARK

Nestled amid 16 acres, Rosewood Sand Hill melds the relaxed style and beauty of California Ranch architecture with fragrant gardens and stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Whether relaxing in the spacious guestrooms, indulging at Sense spa, or enjoying Madera’s delicious offerings inspired by the freshest local ingredients, guests will experience unparalleled attention to detail and impeccable service at this urban oasis. Rosewood Sand Hill’s luxurious accommodations feature 121 elegantly appointed guest rooms, including 31 suites ranging in size from 527 square feet for the deluxe guestroom to 2,372 square feet for the two-bedroom Presidential Villa. All guestrooms and suites offer private balconies or terraces with views of landscaped courtyard gardens, the swimming pool, or the Santa Cruz Mountains.


Lawyers Travel clients who book a new stay from now until September 4, 2023, will receive a one category upgrade at check in (subject to availability). Valid on Lawyers Travel negotiated rates.

SOFITEL NEW YORK

45 WEST 44TH STREET

NEW YORK CITY

Bienvenue au Sofitel New York, the only hotel with a French soul and a New York City edge. Often noted as THE best location in Midtown, just steps from Times Square, Rockefeller Center, world-class Fifth Avenue shopping, and many corporate offices.


Sofitel New York offers travelers luxurious and spacious accommodations with all guestrooms starting at 350 square feet. Some of THE largest and quietest rooms in all of NYC, due to the award-winning architecture of the building and how the hotel is situated. The hotel’s SOBed™ bedding presentation ensures a great night sleep and spacious bathrooms provide ample counter space with separate rain shower and tub.


Reserve Luxury Room category or choose one of 52 one-bedroom suites for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. For a true New York City experience, guests can treat themselves to a Prestige Skyscraper One Bedroom Terrace Suite.

THE WALL STREET HOTEL

88 WALL STREET

NEW YORK CITY

The Wall Street Hotel offers 180 rooms—from comfortable and intimate kings to spacious and luxurious suites. All of their rooms feature heated bathroom flooring, residentially inspired interiors, and Frette bed linens for the perfect night of sleep. Each room is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, a custom entertainment system with casting capabilities, and Bang & Olufsen Bluetooth speakers. Their approach to design throughout the hotel aims to answer a simple question—would guests live here? With that ethic in mind, they invite guests into spaces that are textured, warm, and robust. Their guest rooms range from elegant overnighters to spacious suites, each offering access to their concierge services, gym, complimentary shoeshine, and in-room dining. 


Offering a variety of dining and drinking options throughout the property, The Wall Street Hotel caters to parties of all sizes and all occasions. Whether it's in the top of the floor ballroom event space experience or a secret dinner party tucked away in the dining room, the possibilities are endless. Explore their lobby lounge & bar, restaurant, and top floor lounge, bar, and terrace.

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