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US EXTENDS CURRENT COVID-19 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS UNTIL APRIL
The US government has extended its existing COVID-19 entry requirements for international travelers until mid-April, reports Business Travel News. The current rule, which requires international travelers to the US to be fully vaccinated, had been due to end on January 8. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has now extended that deadline to April 10. The entry requirements apply to any non-US citizen traveling to the US. In order to enter the country, international travelers must provide proof of at least two COVID-19 vaccine doses or an acceptable single-dose vaccine, such as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, prior to their flight. Foreign airlines are also mandated to deny boarding to any non-US travelers who do not fulfil these vaccination requirements. The US first put the requirements in place in October 2021, when the country reopened its borders to international travelers after being closed for nearly two years due to the pandemic. The decision to extend them comes after several European countries implemented new testing rules for travelers from China, which is experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak after lifting its zero-COVID policy and reopening its borders.
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US DOJ CHALLENGES COURT ORDER BANNING MASK MANDATE ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has asked an appeals court panel to reverse the April 2021 ruling that found the government's mask mandate on airplanes, buses, trains, ridesharing services, and at airports and other transportation hubs to be unlawful, reports Skift. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued the nationwide mask mandate during the first days of the Biden administration in January 2021, after several failed attempts to implement one during the Trump administration. Much of the arguments in the appeal focus on the CDC’s decision to issue the mask requirement immediately rather than give the public a chance to comment on the decision. DOJ lawyer Brian Springer said the CDC could impose mask requirements without giving the public time to comment given the pandemic emergency, arguing it was necessary “to prevent the possible infections and deaths that could result if people didn’t do the simple thing of just putting on a mask while they were traveling.”
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EUROPEAN AIRLINES TO INVOKE EU FREEDOMS TO CHALLENGE SHORT-HAUL FLIGHT BANS
Several European airlines and airports plan to invoke EU rights to freedom of movement to repeal the environmental restrictions on short-haul flights, following a partial ban in France approved in December 2022, reports Reuters. Industry groups fear the ban could set a precedent for wider limitations across Europe on short-haul flying and have begun laying out a new strategy to counter the ban, which is in place for three years. While they say a formal legal challenge is unlikely, they plan to invoke freedom of movement - one of four basic freedoms enshrined in European law - in informal reviews of the law expected to take place twice a year, and to lobby the government. The industry groups also claim the ban is ineffective in significantly curbing emissions and has impacted far fewer routes than environmental groups had initially hoped. SCARA, a group representing regional French airlines that lobbied aggressively against the original ban, said it would also use review periods to prove that the ban has no real impact.
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UNITED AIRLINES OPENS NEW CLUB LOUNGE AT CHICAGO O'HARE AIRPORT
United Airlines has opened a new 17,000 square foot United Club in Terminal 1 at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), reports Business Traveler. The new club lounge is double the size of the previous club and includes seats for more than 400 guests, ranging from recliners, couches, and chairs. A dedicated wellness room is also available for travelers, as well as free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the lounge. Visitors can self-scan at e-gates to enter the space, and United has also provided ‘Agent on Demand’ kiosks, where travelers can instantly and remotely communicate with customer service agents over text, phone call, or video. The new lounge is located in Terminal 1’s C concourse near gate C10, and is open daily between the hours of 5:00 am and 9:00 pm CT. The new United Club at O’Hare is open to Polaris business, international business, and premium transcontinental business class travelers, as well as those flying business class with other Star Alliance carriers. Business class travelers will not be able to bring a guest, although those holding first-class tickets with eligible airlines can do so.
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FAA SOFTWARE ISSUES COULD REPORTEDLY TAKE YEARS TO UPDATE
A new report states that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) software that caused the nationwide flight disruptions last week could take years to update, reports Travel Pulse. The system failure was caused by an improper update to the Notices to Air Missions (NOTAM) conducted by an FAA employee. According to a source at the FAA, the software was “30 years old” and would take “at least six years” to update properly. Despite the long-term process of updating the software, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said he wants the FAA to figure out a way to improve the NOTAM database in a much faster fashion. As part of the FAA’s budget proposal for 2023, the agency requested $29.4 million to improve the Aeronautical Information Management Program, which includes the NOTAM system. Officials said the money would help “eliminate the failing vintage hardware that currently supports that function in the national airspace system.”
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BEACON GRAND,
A UNION SQUARE HOTEL
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450 POWELL STREET
SAN FRANCISCO
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Beacon Grand, a Union Square Hotel is the perfect home base to explore San Francisco. Dazzling from street to star, modern design comes to life with restored architectural details. Fully renovated but with a nod to the past, vibrant guestrooms, new public spaces, and thoughtful amenities will delight the most discerning traveler. Beacon Lounge is the heart of the hotel, communal living room during the day and lively gathering at night. Curated curiosities beacon from the legendary Starlite Room atop. A destination for visitors and locals alike, the opportunities to mix and mingle abound. | | |
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234 WEST 42ND STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Hilton Times Square soars above Times Square, offering panoramic views from the spacious rooms and restaurant. Broadway theaters, shops, and restaurants are right outside the door. Iconic New York sites such as The Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Rockefeller Center, Hudson Yards, Grand Central Station, and Radio City Music Hall are within a mile. Enjoy a meal at the lobby level restaurant Pinnacle Bar & Lounge or indulge in the fabulous breakfast buffet available seven days a week. | | |
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9787 KATY FREEWAY
HOUSTON
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The top choice among hotels in the Energy Corridor, Hotel ZaZa Memorial City offers a haven of oversized, well-appointed accommodations, thought-provoking art, and over 11,000 square feet of extraordinary meeting and event space. Bringing the style and service of a luxury resort to Houston and elevating the experience of business travel as well as weekend getaways and staycations, this unique boutique hotel boasts a collection of 159 guest rooms, including Concept Suites and The Magnificent Seven Suites accompanied by exceptional dining, signature spa treatments, and a poolside oasis. | | |
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15 E STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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A monumental location steps from Capitol Hill, Union Station, and the National Mall that does upscale in an impeccably approachable way, with creative design nods to founding father, George Washington. Kimpton George Hotel’s prime location, whimsical personality, and engaging staff will cater to travelers every wish.
The George is offering a Complimentary Upgrade to next room category (based on availability at check in) and 1000 Bonus IHG Points per night for all stays through March 31, 2023.
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2950 COCONUT GROVE DRIVE
CORAL GABLES
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Experience an elevated level of hospitality at the new Loews Coral Gables Hotel. Featuring 242 guestrooms with a modern design, refined amenities, and a rooftop pool, guests can enjoy the best of The City Beautiful. Savor locally curated sips and bites in four restaurants and lounges: Americana Kitchen, Americana Bar, Miami Joe Coffee Co., and Phineas - the 9th floor rooftop lounge. Retreat to The Spa for restorative wellness offerings. Explore Coral Gables with easy access to popular attractions, including the iconic Miracle Mile, just four blocks from the hotel. Located in the heart of The Plaza Coral Gables, guests also have access to The Plaza’s high-end retail, premium dining and international collection of public art.
Lawyers Travel clients can enhance their Loews Coral Gables stay with exclusive perks including a complimentary upgrade and late check-out (based on availability).
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PALAZZO NANI VENICE, RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL | |
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FONDAMENTA CANNAREGIO, 1105
VENICE
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Stay in the heart of Venice’s historic center and soak up the local way of life and peaceful Venetian mood at Palazzo Nani Venice, Radisson Collection Hotel. Perfectly located in a historical building by the Cannaregio canal, the hotel’s architecture and decoration represents an ancient Venetian family engaged with the political, social, and cultural life of the Republic of Venice.
With 52 beautifully designed rooms and suites crafted with thoughtful touches and Venetian style, the hotel boasts original Frescos, a delightful garden, and a charming restaurant. Enjoy free and fast Wi-Fi, complimentary access to the fitness center, 24-hour room service, and plenty of in-room amenities to provide exceptional comfort to all travelers.
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45 WEST 44TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Bienvenue au Sofitel New York - Welcome to Sofitel New York, the hotel with French soul and a New York City edge. Centrally located in Midtown, Sofitel New York offers business travelers luxurious accommodations with all guestrooms starting at 350 square feet, some of the largest in NYC.
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 accommodations or choose one of 52 suites for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. For a true New York City experience, travelers can treat themselves to a Prestige Skyscraper One Bedroom Terrace Suite.
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SONESTA EMERYVILLE -
SAN FRANCISCO BAY BRIDGE
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5555 SHELLMOUND STREET
EMERYVILLE
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Adventure begins at Sonesta Emeryville - San Francisco Bay Bridge. With a spectacular Bay Bridge location – nestled between Berkeley, Oakland, and San Francisco – guests will be moments away from countless things to do in Emeryville and the culturally rich neighborhoods of the Bay Area. Head into San Francisco for a ride on its historic cable cars, stroll the streets of Downtown Oakland, and tour the famous University of California Berkeley nearby. This Emeryville hotel places guests near major area companies including Pixar Animated Studios, Adobe Systems, Clif Bar & Co, and Bayer.
When it’s time to unwind, retreat to ultimate comfort in the contemporary guest rooms and suites overlooking the stunning San Francisco Bay. Stay active in the on-site fitness center and sparkling indoor pool.
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ST. GREGORY HOTEL DUPONT CIRCLE | |
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2033 M STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Located at the intersection of Dupont Circle, Georgetown, and the West End, The St. Gregory Hotel brings stylish accommodations, elevated dining, and inspiring meeting and event space to the nation's capital. The unassuming luxury with modern amenities makes this ideal for business and leisure travelers. Guests can elevate their stay by visiting the new restaurant concept "Ellington Park Bistro." | | |
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415 NEW JERSEY AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Guests will find YOTEL Washington, DC in the thick of the action next to Capitol Hill. Walk through history and discover views of The US Capitol Buildings, The Supreme Court, and a collection of other historical and political monuments to be found in and around Washington Monument Grounds. Stay at the YOTEL Washington, DC and enjoy its playful design together with technology-driven experiences. The award-winning Art and Soul restaurant offers a refreshed menu with seasonal dishes from the Chesapeake Bay watershed communities. The patio is ideal for al fresco dining under the Capitol Hill dome while the interior is a great conversation starter for intimate dinners and private events. | | | | |
