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TSA WILL BEGIN TESTING A SELF-SERVICE SCREENING OPTION IN JANUARY
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin trialing a self-service screening option in January 2024 at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, reports Travel Market Report. The trial will enable travelers with TSA PreCheck eligibility to select a self-service screening option to speed up the security process. The new technology will send PreCheck members down one checkpoint lane with four integrated stations, each containing a video monitor with instructions and a help button that connects to a TSA officer if more assistance is needed. Travelers will have to pass the requirements of each station before moving on to the next one. TSA Administrator David Pekoske said the idea behind the Las Vegas installation is to offer another benefit to PreCheck members. “Since the system is designed for use in PreCheck lanes, highlighting the benefits to PreCheck travelers should be a priority. We want them to understand the value we’re trying to bring to them for taking the time to be pre-cleared for travel,” he said. Ultimately, the TSA’s mission is to speed up the security process at US airports, while also allowing TSA officers to direct their attention elsewhere.
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US VOWS TO TACKLE VISA WAITS AMID SOARING DEMAND
The US issued nearly 8 million visas during 2023 – more than it has in eight years – stating that several of its embassies and consulates have set visa issuance records, reports Travel Weekly. While this uptick in travel is positive, first-time visitors in certain regions are facing wait times of more than 500 days for a visa interview. According to the State Department, these increased wait times are a result of pure demand as opposed to COVID-related backlogs or operational delays. The department has relied on several solutions, such as expanding interview waivers, which enable frequent travelers who meet national security standards to renew visas without having to visit an embassy or consulate, to improve wait times and increase the number of visas issued. Geoff Freeman, CEO of the US Travel Association, gave credit to the Biden administration "for acknowledging the economic consequences of long visa wait times and trying new approaches to solve the problem." Adam Burke, CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, said he was grateful for the State Department's efforts to reduce visa wait times. "While there's still work ahead to ensure that our visa application process is competitive with other global destinations, this is a major step forward," he said. "We know that there is significant pent-up demand for international travel to the US, and the State Department's ongoing progress will play a critical role in restoring what was previously our country's top service export."
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ALASKA AIRLINES TO ACQUIRE HAWAIIAN AIRLINES FOR $1.9 BILLION
Alaska Airlines has announced that it will acquire Hawaiian Airlines for $1.9 billion, expanding the fifth-largest airline in the US, reports USA Today. The merger intends to maintain the Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines brands "while integrating into a single operating platform" to offer travelers access to more flights and destinations across the Americas, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. "This combination is an exciting next step in our collective journey to provide a better travel experience for our guests and expand options for West Coast and Hawaii travelers," said Ben Minicucci, Alaska Airlines CEO. Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO, Peter Ingram, said that “with the additional scale and resources that this transaction with Alaska Airlines brings, [they] will be able to accelerate investments in [their] guest experience and technology, while maintaining the Hawaiian Airlines brand.” The acquisition is anticipated to close in 12-18 months.
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AMERICAN AIRLINES TO INSTALL HIGH-SPEED WI-FI ON REGIONAL JETS
American Airlines is installing high-speed Wi-Fi access on regional jets in an attempt to improve connectivity on smaller aircraft, reports Skift. The carrier said it will install Wi-Fi on around 500 regional aircraft starting next year, as part of an expansion of its relationship with satellite services provider Intelsat. While American already has high-speed Wi-Fi available on 900 mainline aircraft, the carrier said it wanted to ensure its travelers had a “consistent and connected inflight experience” on its regional aircraft, with the goal of increasing the total number of satellite-connected aircraft to more than 1,400. The move to increase Wi-Fi access closely mirrors Delta Air Lines’ plan to improve streaming capabilities on its regional fleet. American said the installation will allow its regional aircraft to have the same Wi-Fi speeds as its mainline fleet.
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NEW CULINARY AND GATE DELIVERY OPTIONS ARE COMING TO AIRPORTS IN NORTH AMERICA
New culinary and gate delivery options are coming to several airports in North America over the next year, reports Forbes. Airport culinary concessionaire OTG has developed a mobile app that will allow travelers the ability to order freshly prepared meals up to 24 hours in advance and either be picked up or delivered to their connecting gate. Called Order Ahead, it’s scheduled to be available by Q1 2024 in the 11 North American airports where OTG operates 350 outlets in 23 terminals. “Regardless of whether a traveler prefers a full-scale dining experience or the speed and convenience of fast-casual, we know every guest values fresh, high-quality food,” said Rick Blatstein, OTG CEO. “Consumer preferences are extremely diverse across our airports, so we try to focus on consistently offering dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the unique flavors of the surrounding region.” For example, when the company opens Sunset Loop Bar & Grill at Denver International Airport (DEN) next spring, the menu will include items such as steak and eggs with locally sourced ribeye and Rocky Mountain Trout Salad prepared with local trout and produce from nearby farms.
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1221 WEST COAST HIGHWAY
NEWPORT BEACH
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Overlooking the waterfront, this coastal haven offers stunning harbor views and exquisite dining options. Every moment at Balboa Bay Resort is crafted for perfection, from luxurious rooms to impeccable service. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, embrace coastal living and reserve a getaway today.
From September 15 - December 31, 2023, Lawyers Travel clients can enjoy two complimentary cocktails at A+O Restaurant | Bar.
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50 WEST WASHINGTON STREET
INDIANAPOLIS
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Conrad Indianapolis is named the only Recommended Hotel in Indiana by Forbes Travel Guide in their 2023 Star Awards. Out of the state's 433 properties, Conrad Indianapolis is the only hotel to receive such distinction and is the only luxury hotel in downtown Indianapolis. This hotel is home to the renowned Collection Suites, plus a curated gallery of works by Warhol, Dali, Picasso, and local artists, bringing inspiration and art to the city. Guests can experience the fine art collection through Long-Sharp Gallery, exploring the second floor or with a guided tour. The sixth floor of Conrad Indianapolis is known as their Urban Oasis, featuring Conrad Spa Indianapolis, the only hotel spa in downtown Indy offering a full menu of services and treatments, a 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. Guests can dine at two on-site restaurants or enjoy a meal in the comfort of their room. | | |
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101 RED RIVER STREET
AUSTIN
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Experience the luxurious offerings and dedicated service that only Fairmont Austin can provide. Enjoy exquisite dining, a pampering spa, and state-of-the-art event spaces while being only steps away from the city’s famed music scene, celebrated cuisine, expansive convention center, and diverse artistic lifestyle. | |
FAIRMONT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH | |
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900 RENE-LEVESQUE BOULEVARD WEST
MONTREAL
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Inspired by Barbie’s travels around the world, the activation comes ahead of Barbie’s 65th birthday, as well as the hotel’s upcoming 66th anniversary. The fun begins with the launch of a “Barbie Dream Suite” along with a variety of hotel packages to choose from (available to book now).
Hotel guests and locals can live la vie en rose and enjoy experiences throughout the hotel, including a Barbie-approved afternoon tea and sweets shop, along with a selection of signature cocktails and mocktails. Guests will experience a variety of other surprises, all while enjoying the distinctive luxury of Fairmont in a perfect pairing of two celebrated legends.
This partnership is part of the latest series of Beyond LIMITS experiences, an exciting collection of first-of-their-kind, awe-inspiring adventures available at renowned Fairmont properties globally.
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HILTON CHICAGO
O’HARE AIRPORT
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O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
CHICAGO
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As the only hotel located on the grounds of O’Hare International Airport, the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport hotel is directly connected via an underground walkway to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Planning a quick trip to Chicago? Consider the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport and eliminate the burden of fighting traffic to catch that early morning flight. Onsite, the hotel offers everything key to business travelers including all-day dining and a convenient grab n’ go market, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and sauna, and beautiful runway views. | | |
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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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HOTEL PER LA,
AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
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649 SOUTH OLIVE STREET
LOS ANGELES
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At Hotel Per LA, guests are invited to discover the ultimate urban escape – featuring skyline views, vibrant cuisine, and a tranquil rooftop pool oasis. With a prime location in the heart of the city, guests can easily explore the art, entertainment, and shopping Los Angeles has to offer. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, the hotel’s plush and comfortable accommodations are designed to ensure each stay is nothing short of exceptional, while their dedicated team is committed to providing first-class service. Come experience an unparalleled blend of sophistication, fun, and relaxation at Hotel Per LA. | | |
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455 MADISON AVENUE
NEW YORK CITY
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There is nothing more magical than the holiday season at Lotte New York Palace. From the famed Christmas tree to glittering décor, the Lotte New York Palace puts guests at the center of it all. Take photos with Santa, meet the Radio City Rockettes, enjoy special seasonal cocktails and much, much more. | | |
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188 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
TORONTO
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At 188 University Avenue, where Canada’s largest financial district meets the country’s most vibrant entertainment core, a polished stainless-steel sculpture by Zhang Huan, provides a dramatic entry into Shangri-La, Toronto. The large-scale exterior metal sculpture, Rising, signifies the artist’s wish for “a beautiful city, with life to be shared by mankind and nature.” Metal peace pigeons make their way up the building and extend indoors to grace the hotel’s lobby ceiling and fireplace. Moving through the revolving door at the hotel’s main entrance, guests are met with a sensory experience: the scent of Shangri‐La; the sound of a Fazioli piano; and the sight of four large‐scale Chinese calligraphy paintings, subtle Asian decor touches and contemporary furniture.
From now until March 31, 2024, Lawyers Travel clients will receive a complimentary next category room upgrade, subject to availability.
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SOFITEL WASHINGTON, DC LAFAYETTE SQUARE | |
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806 15TH STREET NORTHWEST
WASHINGTON, DC
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Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square is a stunning boutique property offering luxurious accommodations in Downtown DC. Drawing inspiration from both the local culture and the French art de vivre, here guests find a celebration of innovation as well as luxurious touches and design details. Whether guests are leading a brainstorming session for a close-knit team or presenting a new product to dozens of delegates, Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square has the right space for them, with six stylish meeting rooms accommodating anywhere from two to 200 attendees. With a business center, state of the art gym, and only steps from the White House and historic monuments, Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square provides French hospitality with a modern twist. | | |
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310 WEST BROADWAY
NEW YORK CITY
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Soho Grand Hotel, Manhattan's first Downtown boutique hotel, perfectly embodies the industrial elegance of SoHo while showcasing the artistic legacy of the neighborhood. It is beloved by global travelers and locals, thanks to its ideal location surrounded by the city's finest shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Entirely renovated in 2021, most rooms provide incredible views of Downtown Manhattan. Custom-designed work desks, complimentary Wi-Fi, and smart TVs offer touches of modern comfort while in-room dining, fully stocked gourmet minibars, and Nespresso machines will keep guests nourished.
Dining experiences are equally impressive, with The Grand Bar’s extensive drinks selection, the modern classics at Soho Diner, and the lively ambiance of the newly revitalized Club Room. An endless array of talent takes the stage on any given night with musical stylings ranging from avant-garde pianists to eclectic jazz, all paired with supper and service that nods to classic New York.
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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. | | | | |
