SEPTEMBER 6, 2023

UK ETA ROLLOUT TO BEGIN IN NOVEMBER; WORLDWIDE EXPANSION SET FOR 2024


The UK Government will begin rolling out its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) entry scheme in phases, starting in November, as part of their digitization of the UK border. This change will mean that some foreign nationals that currently do not need a visa to enter the UK will now be required to complete a pre-registration entry form before entering or transiting the UK. Nationals from Qatar will be first impacted, with an ETA required for travel to the UK on or after November 15, 2023. Travelers from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will follow, with their rollout beginning for travel to the UK on or after February 2024. Worldwide expansion is set for later in 2024. 


Inbound travelers to the UK will be able to apply for an ETA online, and the application form should take only a few minutes to fill out. Individuals will need to provide valid passport data, some personal information, travel plans, and a debit or credit card. Applications will be processed automatically, and most people are expected to receive authorization within 48-72 hours. The cost of the ETA entry permit will be £10 (~$12.50), per applicant. Click “Read More” to visit the official UK government website for more information.

SYSTEMWIDE IT ISSUE LED TO NATIONWIDE GROUND STOP FOR UNITED AIRLINES


A nationwide ground stop was issued for United Airlines flights Tuesday, after a software update caused a widespread slowdown in United’s technology systems, reports ABC News. The issue prompted planes on the ground to be held while flights in the air continued on their routes as planned, the airline said. The issue was resolved within an hour and flights were resumed, with only 211 flights delayed nationwide. United is investigating the cause of the slowdown but does not believe it is a cybersecurity issue. "Earlier [Tuesday] a software update caused a widespread slowdown in United's technology systems. We briefly held aircraft at their destination airports and resumed normal operations around 12:45 pm CT. Our teams are working to get customers to their destinations as soon as possible," the airline said in a statement. The airline also emphasized that no flights that had already departed were affected by the issue when it occurred.

AMERICAN, SOUTHWEST AIRLINES FACING POTENTIAL STRIKE ISSUES


American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, two of the nation’s top airlines, face potential strike issues as neither carrier has yet to reach contract agreements with pilots and flight attendants, reports Travel Pulse. Both groups have authorized a strike, which has sparked concern among industry experts and travelers about potential work stoppages during the winter holiday travel season. However, Southwest pilots and American Airlines flight attendants are currently in federal mediation with their respective airlines, which technically makes a strike illegal. Both groups have been seen picketing at airports. Southwest, in a statement after a recent pilot demonstration, said: "Southwest Airlines respects the rights of our employees to express their opinions, and we do not anticipate any disruption in service because of today’s demonstration of off-duty pilots. Our contract negotiations continue, with leaders from both parties meeting this week, and we’ll keep working with the assistance of the National Mediation Board to reach an agreement that rewards our pilots and places them competitively in the industry." While both American and Southwest staff have been picketing to draw attention to their situations, no actual work disruptions have taken place. 

$2.3 BILLION DELTA SKY WAY AT LAX COMPLETED 18 MONTHS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE


Delta Air Lines, in conjunction with Los Angeles World Airports, has announced the unveiling of the final major phase of the $2.3 billion Delta Sky Way project at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), 18 months ahead of schedule. First announced in 2018, the Delta Sky Way project directly connects Terminal 3 to the Tom Bradley International Terminal via moving airside walkways, officially eliminating the need for busing between terminals. “This modern, state-of-the-art facility has been at the center of Delta’s efforts to become the premier airline of Los Angeles, and now, as we as we celebrate this years-long project being finished much earlier than expected, we are better equipped than ever to provide Angelenos and all of our customers traveling through LA with the truly seamless and elevated experience that they deserve” said Scott Santoro, Vice President of Global Sales. The upgraded facilities, which first opened to travelers in April 2022, provide expanded security checkpoint and baggage claim area, as well as a centralized check-in lobby. On the lower arrivals level of Terminal 3, the exclusive Delta One check-in area offers Delta One members a private TSA screening lane, direct access to the Delta Sky Club, light food and beverages, and assistance from Delta’s Elite Service agents.

FOUR AIRLINES ADDED TO TSA PRECHECK PROGRAM


The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expanding its TSA PreCheck program to add four new airlines to its list of participating carriers, reports Travel Pulse. The four airlines include Cayman Airways, Paris-based low-cost carrier French Bee, British charter airlines Titan Airways, and Japanese low-cost carrier Zipair, which is a subsidiary of Japan Airlines. With these additions, there are 90 TSA PreCheck participating domestic and international carriers. TSA PreCheck is available for eligible travelers when departing from a US airport or when connecting on domestic flights, after returning to the United States. Travelers who are US citizens, US nationals, and US lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck and can pick any enrollment provider based on cost, locations, and additional benefits. Costs for enrollment vary by provider.

BILTMORE HOTEL MIAMI CORAL GABLES

1200 ANASTASIA AVENUE

CORAL GABLES

The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables is a National Historic Landmark located in the exclusive Coral Gables area with proximity to Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. The 271-room resort includes 174 suites and features spectacular Mediterranean architecture with classic Italian, Moorish, and Spanish influences spread over 150 acres of tropical landscape. A favorite of world leaders and celebrities since its opening in 1926, the hotel offers a restored Donald Ross 18-hole, 71-par championship golf course; tennis courts; the largest hotel pool on the East Coast of the United States with private cabanas; a European spa; and a renowned fitness center. The hotel’s dining includes the award-winning Fontana, a traditional Italian restaurant surrounding the Biltmore lush courtyard and fountain, the poolside Cascade and their signature dining experiences of Sunday Brunch and Afternoon Tea. The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables is one of South Florida’s ideal sites for leisure and business travel, high-level corporate briefings & public policy conferences.

CONRAD LOS ANGELES

100 SOUTH GRAND AVENUE

LOS ANGELES

Conrad Los Angeles, the West Coast flagship and first California property for Conrad Hotels & Resorts, opened its doors July 6, 2022 as part of The Grand LA. Designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry with world-renowned interior design from Tara Bernerd & Partners, the 305-room luxury hotel features an interior design aesthetic inspired by Gehry’s captivating architecture. The property features bold and contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows; an elevated indoor and outdoor lobby; a rejuvenating spa; private pool deck offering views of downtown, and much more. The award-winning hotel is home to several original concepts from José Andrés Group, including signature restaurant San Laurel and rooftop restaurant Agua Viva. Perfectly situated among some of the city’s most prominent cultural venues including Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grand Park, and The Broad, the property will serve as a true destination within a destination.


Summer Promotion: $299 plus 10% off spa treatments and services and double Hilton Honors points. Lawyers Travel clients can take advantage of this exclusive rate by booking now through September 30th, 2023.

EATON DC

1201 K STREET NW

WASHINGTON, DC

Find an inspiring sanctuary at Eaton DC. There, they believe hospitality is far more than a place to stay or enjoy a good meal. Eaton DC is a platform for community, creativity, and culture thoughtfully designed to help guests find harmony in body, mind, and spirit while providing inspiration. Beyond the usual creature comforts, the rooms feature turntables that double as Bluetooth speakers, plus a curated collection of vinyl, books from their library, Himalayan salt lamps, and artwork to nourish the soul while guests rest their body and mind. They’ve completely reimagined the hotel wellness experience. Inspired by new-age practices and experiential learning traditions, Eaton Wellness offers a wide range of activities to nourish the mind, body, and spirit, including massages, yoga, infrared saunas, meditation, and reiki.

EVEN HOTEL PITTSBURGH DOWNTOWN, AN IHG HOTEL

425 FORBES AVENUE

PITTSBURGH

Stay Fit at EVEN® Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown, an IHG Hotel. Just steps from Pittsburgh's Market Square, EVEN® Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown, an IHG Hotel keeps travelers 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. 


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.

FAIRMONT AUSTIN

101 RED RIVER STREET

AUSTIN

Get more when booking hotel stays at the Fairmont Austin in Austin, TX. Receive a complimentary upgrade now through September 30, 2023, based on availability, at Fairmont Austin. House car is available first come first serve, drop off only within 1 mile radius. 

FAIRMONT CENTURY PLAZA

2025 AVENUE OF THE STARS

LOS ANGELES

Lumière, Fairmont Century Plaza’s French-inspired brasserie has just launched a daily Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. Pair a delicious bite with a cocktail, glass of wine or draft for the perfect after-work catch up with colleagues, client celebration, or weekend delight with friends and family. Featuring creative takes on martinis, mules, and tasty Happy Hour morsels.


For stays now through September 30, 2023, Fairmont Century Plaza is pleased to offer Lawyers Travel clients a complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

INTERCONTINENTAL NEW YORK BARCLAY, AN IHG HOTEL

111 EAST 48TH STREET

NEW YORK CITY

Since 1926, InterContinental New York Barclay, an IHG Hotel has welcomed the world’s most discerning guests. Immaculately refurbished throughout the years, their hotel eloquently recalls the grandeur of the Jazz Era and old New York while fusing modern-day conveniences and sustainable initiatives. Whether hosting a personal event or meeting, InterContinental New York Barclay, an IHG Hotel conveniently located near Grand Central Station, plays host to every Manhattan occasion.

LIMELIGHT HOTEL

1600 WEWATTA STREET

DENVER

Formerly the Hotel Born, the new Limelight Hotel Denver begins the next chapter of Aspen Hospitality. The Limelight Hotel offers 200 rooms boasting an alpine-meets-city aesthetic that matches the mood of Denver, Colorado perfectly. Each room features knotty-pine headboards to evoke the coziness of a mountain getaway, while offering modern leather furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows revealing monumental city and Rocky Mountain views, and carefully curated art to remind guests of why they are visiting this dynamic city. Of course, the most important amenity is the location.

THE DOMINICK 

246 SPRING STREET

NEW YORK CITY

The Dominick offers guests unsurpassed accommodations and sweeping views of Manhattan and the Hudson River. Experience paramount service, seasonal outdoor pool, restaurants and bar, and banquet and event space featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and some of the best views in Manhattan. As the only independent Five-Diamond property in New York City and the only one in the storied SoHo neighborhood, The Dominick offers travelers luxurious amenities with unobtrusive service to match. Guests feel a sense of welcoming sophistication and mindful attention to detail befitting this one-of-a-kind hotel. 

THE LONDON WEST HOLLYWOOD AT BEVERLY HILLS

1020 NORTH SAN VICENTE BOULEVARD

WEST HOLLYWOOD

Perched in the Hills just steps from the legendary Sunset Strip, the award-winning London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills is a fusion of its namesake cities – smart, modern, and evoking the utmost style, offering a tranquil urban oasis. The spacious, all-suite accommodations combine sophisticated comfort, awe-inspiring views, and a signature sense of California cool and understated European luxury. The impeccable service, exquisite food and drink offerings, and wide array of unparalleled amenities create a truly unforgettable experience – including 226 sumptuous suites with private balconies and oversized bathrooms featuring a large walk-in shower and deep soaking bathtub; the signature Boxwood Restaurant and London Bar, offering traditional English Afternoon Tea and a daily complimentary expansive European-Style breakfast table; a panoramic rooftop pool and sundeck; a state-of the-art fitness center; the Alex Roldan Salon and Boutique; a 110-seat screening room and 25,000 square feet of private meeting and event spaces.

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