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TSA REVERSES DECISION TO REQUIRE ADDITIONAL SCREENING STEP FOR CLEAR MEMBERS
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has altered its plan to require additional identification checks for CLEAR Plus members, reports The Washington Post. In July, TSA had said it would increase ID checks on all CLEAR members as part of a push to enhance CLEAR's screening protocols following a security breach that took place last year. The agency has now decided to only screen a small proportion of CLEAR members instead of requiring all members to go through the additional ID check. TSA officials have not stated the reason for the decision but did restate its commitment to ensuring the highest degree of aviation security. “TSA is responsible for ensuring that all systems and programs, including those provided by private companies, meet requisite standards and will take necessary steps to ensure security needs are met,” the agency said in a statement. “Accurate and reliable verification of passenger identity is foundational to aviation security.” While CLEAR members may be subjected to random ID checks by TSA, members will continue to skip the normal TSA screening process by confirming their identity biometrically (via a fingerprint or iris scan) at a kiosk. Lawyers Travel clients have access to a discounted CLEAR Plus membership rate of $119/year, a $70 savings from the $189 public rate.
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BUSINESS TRAVEL FOR 2024 IS ON TRACK TO EXCEED PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS
A new report from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is projecting that business travel will surpass 2019 levels of travel in 2024, two years sooner than GBTA had previously predicted, reports Travel Pulse. Having “rebounded at a more accelerated rate than expected just a year ago,” business travel spend is expected to approach $1.4 trillion in 2024. By 2027, that figure will approach $1.8 trillion. GBTA's report attributes the quick rebound in business travel to pent-up demand, favorable economic conditions worldwide, and receding fears about a recession. "The headwinds that were anticipated to impact the rebound of global business travel over the past year didn’t materialize and that is good news,” said GBTA CEO Suzanne Neufang. “This latest forecast now indicates an accelerated return to pre-pandemic spending levels sooner than anticipated as well as growth ahead in the coming years. Business travel spending is a key indicator, but how travel volumes will continue to rebound is yet to be seen.”
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US, CHINA AGREE TO DOUBLE WEEKLY FLIGHTS BETWEEN COUNTRIES
The US and China will approve twice the number of flights currently permitted for air carriers to fly between the two countries under a new agreement, reports Reuters. The Transportation Department (DOT) said it would increase the number of Chinese passenger flights allowed to fly to the US to 18 weekly roundtrips on September 1 and increase that to 24 per week starting October 29. Currently, there are only 12 weekly round-trip flights to China. The Chinese government will agree to the same increase for American carriers. "Our overriding goal is an improved environment wherein the carriers of both parties are able to exercise fully their bilateral rights to maintain a competitive balance and fair and equal opportunity among US and Chinese air carriers," DOT assistant secretary of aviation and international affairs Carol Petsonk said. The agreement comes after China lifted travel restrictions on group tours for more countries, including key markets such as the US, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. Airlines for America (A4A) said it “supports the gradual reopening of US-China air services commiserate with increases in passenger demand over time. Today’s modified Order ensures fair and equal opportunity for US airlines to compete in the marketplace.” The 24 weekly flights are still a fraction of the more than 150 round-trip flights allowed by each side before restrictions were imposed in early 2020 due to COVID-19.
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BRAZIL IS BRINGING BACK VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR US TRAVELERS
Brazil will reimpose visa requirements on travelers coming from the US, Canada, and Australia beginning October 1, reports Travel Pulse. The decision has to do with the reimplementation of reciprocity measures by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s new administration, which came into power in 2023. Starting October 1, Americans who plan on traveling to Brazil will need to obtain a Visit Visas, or ‘Vistos de Visita’ (VIVIS), which can be requested through an online application. The digital visa will enable travelers to remain in Brazil for up to 90 days for the purposes of tourism, business, transit, study, volunteer work, etc. Visa requirements include a passport that’s valid through the end of their planned trip to Brazil, proof of residency for non-US citizens, a letter stating the purpose of travel, payment of visa processing fees ($160 for US residents), proof of an outbound transportation ticket within 90 days of entry, full trip itinerary with hotel reservation/host invitation, and proof of sufficient financial solvency to sustain the traveler during their visit. On top of securing a valid visa, travelers should also note that their passport must contain at least two blank pages or they risk being denied entry into Brazil, per international travel regulations.
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DELTA OPENS THIRD SKY CLUB AT BOSTON'S LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Delta Air Lines has announced that it has opened a new Delta Sky Club at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), becoming the third Sky Club in the airport. The nearly 21,000-square-foot Club seats more than 400 guests and operates on the international E Concourse. Operating alongside the two Clubs on Concourse A, Delta Sky Club will have capacity for more than 1,000 guests simultaneously at BOS. Features of the new E Concourse Sky Club include a buffet, three bars, five shower suites, six soundproof booths for quiet work, and two family rooms. Among its menu items will be local fare such as New England clam chowder, lobster rolls, and Boston-based Necco candy wafers. “While no two lounges are alike, the layout and Boston-inspired details in this Club make it feel truly one-of-a-kind,” said Claude Roussel, Managing Director – Delta Sky Club. “From the moment our guests enter the lounge, we want them to feel transported — not just by curated design, but by the care and hospitality they experience from our ambassadors.” The E Concourse Sky Club is open to travelers from 1:30 pm - 10:45 pm ET (lounge closes at 10:15 pm on Wednesdays).
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WE HAVE A NEW LOOK
The American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) brand is evolving to a more modern brand identity. Since Lawyers Travel is part of Amex GBT, you’ll start seeing that Amex GBT and Lawyers Travel will share a refreshed, unified look, and our new name will be Amex GBT Lawyers Travel (Lawyers Travel™).
Behind these changes are our commitments to one purpose – to power progress through travel – and one vision – to be your travel platform for unrivaled choice, value, and experience.
There’s nothing you need to do as our new brand elements take shape over the next few months. Your Lawyers Travel service won't be impacted, and the best part is you’ll continue to reap the benefits of the powerful backing of Amex GBT.
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127 EAST 55TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Located in the heart of New York City, the Concorde Hotel New York offers an authentic New York experience close to Central Park and New York’s finest restaurants and attractions. Limited to four rooms per floor, enjoy the intimacy and privacy the Concorde Hotel New York has to offer. Guests can enjoy the Bonsaii Tapas & Wine Bar located on the first floor of the hotel. In the morning, find coffee and light fare. In the evening, the cozy café transforms into a chic NYC wine and tapas bar. | |
EVEN HOTEL PITTSBURGH DOWNTOWN, AN IHG HOTEL | |
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425 FORBES AVENUE
PITTSBURGH
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Just steps from Pittsburgh's Market Square, EVEN® Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown, an IHG Hotel keeps guests close to all the action. Walk to a Penguins game at PPG Paints Arena, jog through Point State Park, or head to Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Visit the Duquesne Incline on Mount Washington for magnificent views of the city and tour the Phipps Conservatory for a calm oasis in the city. Their wellness hotel offers great amenities to help guests stay healthier while traveling, such as a state-of-the-art fitness studio, in-room fitness equipment, and fresh, healthy entrees at their restaurant, EVEN Kitchen & Bar. | | |
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400 CRESCENT COURT
DALLAS
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Featuring undeniable charm that is quintessentially Texan, Hotel Crescent Court melds Dallas sophistication and heritage into an experience that truly represents a proud legacy.
Fresh from a $33 million renovation, Hotel Crescent Court has seen a complete overhaul, all while retaining their landmark Southern style. Select from one of the 186 rooms or 40 suites, complete with custom-scented Molton Brown amenities and a contemporary blush, cream and gray color scheme. Peruse art from Caroline Rose Hunt’s personal collection, including a 2,000-year-old marble sculpture of the Greek god Aesculapius. Pick from more than a dozen restaurants and bars, including Beau Nash cocktail lounge, offering more than 30 types of by-the-glass bubbly. Guests can pamper themselves at the 22,000-square-foot spa with one of many signature treatments or plan a world-class event in one of their beautiful meeting and event spaces.
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MILLENNIUM HOTEL BROADWAY TIMES SQUARE | |
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145 WEST 44TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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While Broadway and Times Square are right outside their door in Midtown Manhattan, all the hustle and bustle of the city will be checked at the door once travelers arrive at Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square. Instead, experience refreshingly friendly staff and a relaxing spot to unwind in the heart of the city.
With this incredible location, savvy travelers will love the value of their family-friendly, 4-star comfort hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Whatever guests have planned for their next adventure in the ‘City that Never Sleeps’, Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square promises to keep it quiet.
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SONESTA
FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH
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999 NORTH FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH BLVD
FORT LAUDERDALE
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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. | | |
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9876 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD
BEVERLY HILLS
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Timeless elegance and classic Hollywood glamour await at The Beverly Hilton, an iconic and legendary destination that sets the standard for luxury hospitality. Guests are invited to explore a legacy that spans decades, hosting countless legends of the entertainment industry and the prestigious Golden Globe Awards each year.
Each of the meticulously designed rooms and suites exudes classic charm and modern luxury, providing a tranquil sanctuary. Travelers are invited to indulge in the plush furnishings, elegant decor, and thoughtful amenities that define a commitment to excellence. Breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline await at the Mediterranean rooftop restaurant Sant’olina, and serenity abounds at the renowned Aqua Star Pool.
The legendary hospitality of The Beverly Hilton is unmatched, where timeless allure, iconic status, and unparalleled service combine to create an unforgettable stay.
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38 LEICESTER SQUARE
LONDON
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Welcome to The Londoner Hotel – the world's first super boutique hotel. A collection of spaces, tastes, and experiences brought to life across 16 stories, curated to reflect the drama and elegance of London’s West End life.
Rest and relax in 350 bedrooms and suites with incredible London views. Savor delicious cuisine and cocktails at The Londoner’s six restaurants and bars, including a gin tavern and Japanese rooftop bar. Explore a secret whisky room within The Residence, or indulge the senses at The Retreat, an entire floor dedicated to wellness. Discover a pool surrounded by secluded cabanas, treatment rooms, 24-hour gym, hair salon, nail bar, gentlemen’s barber, as well as a superfood bar serving nutritious food and drink.
Enjoy a complimentary upgrade from a King to Deluxe King or a Deluxe King to Deluxe King City View; valid for stays until September 10th, 2023.
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1118 NORTH STATE STREET
CHICAGO
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Summer is fleeting, and time is running out to enjoy the sensational rooftop pool at Viceroy Chicago before it closes for the winter.
Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast, Viceroy Chicago offers an oasis of tranquility where guests can soak up the sun, savor the summer breeze, and create unforgettable memories. Enjoy their sparkling pool, surrounded by stunning skyline views and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the city.
Guests of the hotel enjoy complimentary access to the pool and refreshing cocktails and snacks are available for purchase while lounging poolside. Their attentive team ensures guest’s comfort with plush towels, complimentary sunscreen, and favorite summertime treats.
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WALDORF ASTORIA WASHINGTON, DC | |
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1100 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Bringing stunning design and unforgettable experiences to Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington’s iconic Old Post Office has been reimagined as Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC. The hotel features 263 elegant, restored guest rooms including a collection of luxurious one-bedroom Signature Suites. Surrounded by a soaring 9-story atrium sits the legendary Peacock Alley and The Bazaar by Josè Andrès offering a carefully curated theater of shared plates from the ground-breaking culinary artistry of Michelin-starred Jose Andres and his Josè Andrès Group team. Waldorf Astoria Spa invites relaxation and rejuvenation with six treatment rooms and a tranquil Himalayan salt therapy room. Just steps from the White House, Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC is conveniently set amid DC’s greatest cultural institutions and attractions.
Lawyers Travel clients are invited to discover this unique haven with a complimentary upgrade to next room category (based on availability at check-in). Valid for stays July 1 – September 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 GBT 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. | | | | |
