NOVEMBER 29, 2023

TSA RECORDS THE BUSIEST DAY IN ITS HISTORY WITH NEARLY 3 MILLION TRAVELERS


Over 2.9 million travelers passed through airports across the US on Sunday, November 26, breaking the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) record for the most travelers in a single day, reports Travel + Leisure. According to the TSA’s data, a total of 2,907,378 travelers were screened on the Sunday following Thanksgiving, contributing to the more than 14.6 million travelers who passed through US airports between November 21 and November 26. TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein said Sunday’s traffic was a 10.1 percent increase from the same Sunday last year. The record-breaking numbers come as the TSA predicted the busiest holiday season ever. Since November 1, TSA reported that it moved more than 2 million travelers per day every day this month, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day itself.

CLEAR WILL UPGRADE TO FACIAL RECOGNITION FOR AIRPORT SECURITY


According to Travel Weekly, the CLEAR registered-travel program will begin using facial-recognition technology at its airport security lanes over the course of the year in 2024. The new technology, known as NetGen Identity+, will replace CLEAR’s current biometric identification system, which solely relies on iris and fingerprint checks. The upgrade will take place as CLEAR has come under criticism following three security breaches. CLEAR states that the new biometric technology will provide a faster experience for members by eliminating the need for them to stop at a kiosk for the ID check and will be able to validate identity documents back to the issuing source. For all existing CLEAR members, the conversion to the new system will require a one-time identity authentication. To do so, members will be prompted by email beginning November 30 to check in with a CLEAR staffer next time they fly. There, they'll present a state ID, driver's license, or passport and pose for an updated photo at a CLEAR enrollment kiosk. The conversion will be free of charge.


Lawyers Travel clients have access to a discounted CLEAR Plus membership rate of $119/year, a $70 savings from the $189 public rate.

US MEDIATORS REJECT ATTEMPT BY FLIGHT ATTENDANTS TO CLEAR THE PATH FOR A STRIKE AT AMERICAN AIRLINES


Federal mediators have rejected the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) request that could have cleared the way for a year-end strike by flight attendants at American Airlines, reports the Associated Press. Instead, the National Mediation Board advised the airline and the union to continue negotiating their contract. The union is currently fighting for raises of 35 percent followed by two yearly increases of 6 percent, while American is offering an immediate raise of 11 percent upfront followed by annual increases of 2 percent. “We look forward to continued negotiations with APFA and reaching an agreement our flight attendants have earned,” American said. On the other hand, Union President Julie Hedrick claims that despite the setback, “[APFA is] not backing down. [The union] will intensify pressure on the company.”

US AND CHINA DISCUSS FURTHER INCREASE OF FLIGHTS BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES


The US and China have met to discuss a substantial increase in flights between the two countries as a way to help travel industries in both countries make a full recovery from the pandemic, reports Skift. Back in August, the two countries said they would approve twice the number of passenger flights currently permitted for air carriers to fly between them. Chinese officials have been encouraging the US to continue the vision that President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden laid out in a recent meeting at APEC and create a new situation for China-US civil aviation cooperation in the future. “CAAC welcomes American aviation-related enterprises to operate and develop in China and jointly create a better future for the global aviation industry,” said China’s head of civil aviation regulator, Song Zhiyong.

UNITED, LUFTHANSA, AND DEUTSCHE BAHN ANNOUNCE INTEGRATED TICKET AGREEMENT


United Airlines, Lufthansa Group, and Deutsche Bahn have announced a new agreement that will allow travelers flying from Germany to the US via Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to book integrated train and plane tickets, reports Airport Technology. The deal, which went into effect on November 22, enables connections between 25 German cities – as well as Basel, Switzerland – and United’s hubs in several locations across the US. “This new collaboration will offer our customers even greater travel choice and flexibility, allowing convenient connections between 25 cities across Germany and the United States with just one convenient transfer at Frankfurt Airport, all on a single ticket,” said Patrick Quayle, senior VP of global network planning and alliances at United Airlines. According to United, this will provide travelers between Germany and the US with more options and improved connections. The carrier also noted how this partnership builds on Star Alliance’s Intermodal Partnership model and allows for shared benefits across the rail and air sectors. This includes the ability for travelers to collect miles for rail journeys taken as part of a combined ticket, priority baggage handling, and the ability for United Mileage Plus travelers to collect miles for rail journeys taken as part of a combined rail/air ticket.

HAMILTON HOTEL DC

1001 14TH STREET NW

WASHINGTON, DC

Welcome to Hamilton Hotel DC, a landmark in the heart of downtown Washington, DC. Relax in stylish accommodations, experience ahead-of-the-curve amenities, enjoy from-scratch Italian dining and an award-winning wine list at Via Sophia.


Centrally located in downtown DC, Hamilton Hotel DC is within easy walking distance of many of the city’s iconic museums, monuments, and must-see sights, including the Smithsonian museums, the White House, and the National Mall. 

HILTON CHECKERS LOS ANGELES

535 SOUTH GRAND AVENUE

LOS ANGELES

Hilton Checkers Los Angeles is a full-service Hilton hotel located in the heart of the financial district in downtown Los Angeles. Recently renovated, this boutique-style, historic hotel is walking distance to all that downtown has to offer including entertainment, dining, and shopping destinations. Travelers can indulge in the beautiful Southern California weather, while taking in sweeping views of downtown’s skyline, from the iconic hotel’s rooftop terrace. Enjoy a restful sleep in the well-appointed guest rooms and meet in style in the flexible meeting rooms, ideal for corporate events and social gatherings. Experience downtown Los Angeles at Hilton Checkers.


Lawyers Travel clients who stay from now until December 31, 2023, will receive a complimentary upgrade (based on availability) and an additional 500 Bonus Points per stay.

HUTTON HOTEL

1808 WEST END AVENUE

NASHVILLE

Just steps from famed Music Row, Hutton Hotel brings to life the creative energy that flows throughout this magnetic city. Inspiration and creativity are woven into every experience at Hutton Hotel. Enjoy selections from their Vinyl Library or electric performances at Analog, the intimate live entertainment venue right on site. Their unique amenities help deliver an undeniably authentic Music City experience. With music-inspired activities fueled by their proximity to the famed Music Row, this is a place for artists and fans alike.

MODERNHAUS SOHO

27 GRAND STREET

NEW YORK CITY

At ModernHaus SoHo, style and substance go hand in hand. Their museum-worthy assemblage of artworks nods to the neighborhood’s storied past, while their variety of outdoor spaces give travelers the rare opportunity to float above the frenzy of the streets. Located on the second floor is Jumpin Jacks, a chic all-day eatery that transforms into an intimate lounge at night. Set out to discover what makes SoHo one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in New York City; the city’s best shopping, dining, and cultural spots are steps away. Or stay closer to home, unwinding in their residential-inspired guest rooms, dining at their signature restaurant Twenty Three Grand, or soaking up some sun —with a side of city views—from their rooftop pool bar, Jimmy.

SIGNIA BY HILTON SAN JOSE

170 SOUTH MARKET STREET

SAN JOSE

Across the street from Plaza de César Chávez Park and within walking distance of the San Jose Convention Center, Signia by Hilton San Jose offers a prime location in the capital of Silicon Valley. Setting the stage for a new class of business travel, guests will find over 65,000 square feet of meeting and function space. Signature culinary experiences, an outdoor rooftop pool, and extensive fitness facilities complete their stay. City or mountain views, crisp 300 thread count sheets, and Nespresso coffee are just a few of the things that make their guest rooms the perfect space to relax.

SONESTA FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH

999 NORTH FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH BOULEVARD

FORT LAUDERDALE

The sun. The surf. The soft, sandy beach—all just steps away from the laid-back sophistication of Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach. Stay close to the Galleria Mall, Port Everglades, Las Olas Boulevard, and more. Find stylish guest rooms and suites with spectacular ocean views at their beach resort. Enjoy generous amenities including a full-service beachfront restaurant, 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space, business and fitness facilities, and an outdoor pool.

THE ROXY HOTEL NEW YORK

2 SIXTH AVENUE

NEW YORK CITY

Situated on the iconic corner of SoHo and TriBeCa, The Roxy Hotel New York captures the essence of these legendary neighborhoods, where fine dining, wine bars, art galleries, and high-end boutiques thrive. 


With its 201 guest rooms and newly renovated Roxy Penthouse and Terrace, the hotel offers an unforgettable experience in the most unique Manhattan location.


Two brand-new workrooms are available for daily rentals, providing a productive and inspiring environment. Both are fully equipped, filled with natural light, and can accommodate up to 14 people. And once business concludes, it will be time to explore the hotel's exciting outlets. 


Whether in the mood for cocktails at the Roxy Bar, savoring coffee at the renowned Jack's Stir Brew Coffee, enjoying a cinematic escape at the Roxy Cinema, or grooving to some jazz at The Django Jazz Club, all of these embody the pioneering spirit of New York City.

THE RYDER HOTEL

237 MEETING STREET

CHARLESTON

Discover The Ryder Hotel, a boutique escape-meets-experience hotel in the heart of Charleston. The Ryder Hotel is a place to embrace a fun-loving, free-spirited experience. A place to nurture genuine connections. A place where neighbors and explorers gather to celebrate what brings everyone together. Their aesthetic is inspired by Charleston’s coastal beauty and features a style that’s sophisticated, but still relaxed. Earthy reds, organic hues, and hand-crafted furniture create a modern, laid-back bohemian experience that looks awesome from every angle.


Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, The Ryder Hotel’s central location makes this the perfect home base for the Lowcountry explorer. Just steps from the shops on King Street and the French District, guests are sure to keep busy during their stay. This 91-room boutique hotel embodies a laid-back coastal spirit and incorporates sustainability as a core pillar in everything they do. 


The Ryder Hotel provides complimentary bikes, morning coffee, workout classes and a welcome cocktail upon check-in.

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