|
US LOOKS TO END COVID-19 VACCINE MANDATE FOR FOREIGN TRAVELERS
The US House of Representatives plans to vote on a bill that would end the COVID-19 vaccine requirement for most foreign travelers, reports Skift. Last June, the Biden administration dropped its negative COVID-19 testing requirement but has not lifted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination requirements. The CDC says vaccines continue to be the most important public health tool for fighting COVID-19 and recommends all travelers be vaccinated. Currently, adult travelers visiting the US who are not citizens or permanent residents must show proof of vaccination before boarding their flight, with some limited exceptions. Republican Representative Thomas Massie introduced the measure to rescind the vaccine requirement with public support from the US Travel Association, which stated that it has “long supported the removal of this requirement and see no reason to wait until the May expiration of the public health emergency — particularly as potential visitors are planning spring and summer travel.” The group says the US “is the only country that still has this requirement for international visitors when there is no longer any public health justification.”
|  | | |
|
5G UPGRADE DELAYS COULD DISRUPT US AIRLINE SUMMER SCHEDULES
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is concerned that many airlines won't be able to retrofit their planes to handle new 5G wireless technology in time for the peak summer travel season, reports Reuters. In a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, IATA Director General Willie Walsh said, “many operators will not make the proposed July 2023 (and in some cases the March 2023) retrofit deadline owing to supply chain issues, certification delays, and unavoidable logistical challenges.” The letter also stated, “It is critical that we acknowledge and accept that fact and move collectively to change our approach to this issue now, before many carriers are unable to continue to serve the US market during the peak summer travel season." Last June, Verizon and AT&T voluntarily agreed to delay some C-Band 5G usage until July 1, 2023, as air carriers work to retrofit airplanes to ensure that they will not face interference. The proposed directive is similar to one that took effect in December 2021, prohibiting passenger and cargo flight operations in the vicinity of 5G C-Band wireless transmitters unless the FAA specifically approved them. The FAA, Verizon, and AT&T are now negotiating to reach a new agreement that seeks to extend some voluntary mitigations beyond July 1.
| | | | |
|
PASSENGER TRAFFIC NEARLY DOUBLED ACROSS EUROPEAN AIRPORTS IN 2022
Air passenger traffic across the European network grew by 98% in 2022, reports Airport Technology. According to data from Airports Council International Europe (ACI Europe), airports recorded 1.94 billion travelers in 2022, which is nearly double the number from 2021 but is still below 21% against the pre-pandemic (2019) period. The data also revealed that only 27% of Europe’s airports recovered their pre-pandemic (2019) traveler volumes in 2022. The five busiest airports in Europe recorded a 114% traffic growth last year but fell 22.6% short of 2019 levels. With 64.3 million travelers in 2022, Istanbul remained the busiest European airport during the year followed by London Heathrow and Paris-CDG airports, which served 61.6 million and 57.5 million travelers respectively. ACI Europe director general Olivier Jankovec said, “The surge in passenger traffic last year has been phenomenal. Kicking off in early spring when most travel restrictions were finally lifted, it boomed over the summer and remained resilient afterwards. All of this despite geopolitical shocks, deteriorating macro-economics, fast-rising airfares and COVID still being with us. If anything, 2022 has been the year in which we finally learned how to live and travel with COVID-19."
| | | | |
|
DELTA TO ADD TEXAS FLIGHTS, FREQUENCIES
Delta Air Lines has announced that it plans to add new service from Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) and increase frequencies on several Texas routes. Beginning in June, Delta will launch twice-daily service between DAL and New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) each. The carrier will also increase frequency to Atlanta with five daily flights. Delta’s expansion in DAL complements its existing service at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), where the airline provides multiple daily flights to eight of its nine US hubs. In July, Delta will operate nearly 40 peak-day departures to eight destinations from DAL and DFW combined, becoming the only carrier operating service to New York and Los Angeles from both Dallas airports. Additionally, Delta will increase summer-season frequencies on routes from Austin, San Antonio, and Harlingen, Texas.
| | |
|
US TRAVEL ASSOCIATION SAYS AIR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE MUST IMPROVE
The US Travel Association has said the country must improve the air travel system and create a seamless and secure travel experience from end to end, reports Travel Pulse. In a recent press conference, officials from the US Travel Association said this effort must begin with opportunities this year as Congress works to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The association also referenced a survey conducted by market researcher Ipsos, which found that just one in ten Americans who have flown by air (13%) rate their overall travel experience as excellent. Meanwhile, nearly half (45%) rate air travel as average or below average. “The latest data is a clear sign that significant upgrades are needed to kickstart a reimagined air travel experience that works for all Americans,” said the association’s President and CEO, Geoff Freeman. The research from the poll will help inform the US Travel Association’s work to modernize the entire travel system.
| | | | | |
|
|
1001 16TH STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC
| |
|
This historic hotel is in the heart of the nation’s capital less than two blocks from the White House. The National Mall, Georgetown, and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum are within a couple of miles. Capital Hilton offers comfortable rooms and suites, two restaurants, and extensive event space. North Gate Grill pays homage to all-American cuisine with a regionally inspired menu while The Statler Lounge offers a more casual atmosphere and a range of options at lunch and dinner.
All Ovation clients receive complimentary Wi-Fi and access to the onsite fitness center with their stay.
| | |
|
|
520 COWPER STREET
PALO ALTO
| |
Formerly known as the Garden Court, the all-new el PRADO Hotel has emerged from a recent refresh to become one of the most unique hotels in downtown Palo Alto. Framed by charming Spanish architecture, el Prado Hotel features a distinctive European ambiance and bright, airy, and open interiors that simultaneously soothe and inspire arriving guests. Located between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and San Jose Airport (SJC) while having easy access to some of the largest tech, VC Firms, and corporate companies in Silicon Valley. | |
Kimpton EPIC Hotel is an exquisite base camp for exploring Miami. The glamorous, flirty city loves showing off her outdoorsy side. Miami’s tropical climate inspires alfresco activities day and night, all year long. Relax in a spacious cabana by Kimpton EPIC Hotel’s two sky-high pools, enjoy dinner and drinks alfresco at Area 31 restaurant, walk barefoot on nearby hidden beaches, go kayaking and boating, or visit open-air attractions like artsy Wynwood. It’s time to experience this glimmering paradise in exhilarating new ways. | |
HILTON BOSTON DOWNTOWN/FANEUIL HALL | |
|
|
Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall is perfectly situated in the heart of downtown Boston in the Financial District, one block from Boston's waterfront, and ten minutes from Logan International Airport. Close to law firms, corporate HQs, government offices, and more.
Built in 1928 as Boston, Massachusetts' first Art Deco skyscraper, the historic Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall is the ideal blend of old and new. The 1920's intimate decor of warm brick, rich woods and brass is combined with a host of modern comforts and conveniences. The Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall’s ongoing commitment to superior service and exceptional standards of excellence earned the coveted AAA Four Diamond Award annually. Providing spacious guest rooms with an enchanting view of the city and period-style furnishings with thoughtful business amenities, including Wi-Fi and a state-of-the-art fitness facility, the Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall offers classic American and seafood cuisine with the on-property restaurant, Fin Point Oyster Bar & Grille.
|  | | |
|
|
517 LEXINGTON AVENUE
NEW YORK CITY
| |
|
Hotel 48LEX, a Four Diamond Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, offers a sophisticated guesthouse experience in the atmosphere of a residentially styled, upscale boutique property. Each of the spacious salons and suites are designed to resemble a Park Avenue apartment, giving guests the feel of their own pied-à-terre in the heart of New York City. High-style accommodations, signature amenities, and thoughtful guest services combine to create an effortless and personalized stay.
As added value, guests will receive the following when booked with the negotiated rate:
- Premium Wi-Fi access
- Breakfast delivered in-room
- Discounted guest parking available
- Evening wine hour featuring Sommelier from 5pm-7pm
- Bottled water in-room
- Access to PressReader, a digital newsstand
| |
HOTEL ZENA, A VICEROY URBAN RETREAT | |
|
1155 14TH STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC
| |
|
Visit Condé Nast’s #2 Hotel in Washington, DC, Hotel Zena, a Viceroy Urban Retreat on the next trip to the nation’s capital. Part of Viceroy’s Urban Retreat Collection, Hotel Zena is where art, music, and design thrive. Part hotel and part art gallery that features work that celebrates inclusion and equality. Their guestrooms and suites are spacious, perfect for a remote workstation with artful touches.
Explore one of the best rooftop scenes in DC right here at Hedy’s Rooftop, featuring views of the iconic city skyline serving vibrant cocktails, spirits, and small bites.
| | |
|
|
1808 WEST END AVENUE
NASHVILLE
| |
|
Located just steps from Music Row, the epicenter of Nashville's unique sound, Hutton Hotel is the city's original boutique hotel and a hub for creative expression. With a modern aesthetic and laid-back style, it is the perfect place for catching up with friends over cocktails, exploring the lively West End neighborhood, or catching a show at Analog, the Hutton Hotel's world-class music venue and Nashville's premiere listening lounge. With inspiration around every corner, it’s where Nashville comes to work and play. Creating an elevated experience that captures the excitement and energy of Music City.
For stays now through June 30, 2023, Hutton Hotel is pleased to offer Ovation clients a complimentary upgrade at time of booking. Subject to availability.
| |
MILLENNIUM HOTEL BROADWAY TIMES SQUARE | |
|
145 WEST 44TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
| |
While Broadway and Times Square are right outside the door in Midtown Manhattan, all the hustle and bustle of the city will be checked at the door once guests arrive at Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square. Instead, guests will 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 this 4-star comfort hotel in Midtown Manhattan. | | |
|
|
21 EAST 52ND STREET
NEW YORK CITY
| |
|
Welcome to the Midtown, New York residence at Madison Avenue. Conveniently located on 52nd Street between Madison and 5th Avenue in the heart of Manhattan, Omni Berkshire Place rooms and suites provide guests the power to choose when and how one accesses all that New York City has to offer. Just beyond the front doors are headquarters of Fortune 500 companies, 5th Avenue and the best shopping, theater, and historical attractions in the city.
Stop in at Berk's Bar for an authentic dining experience featuring oversized cocktails in a lively atmosphere. Take time to enjoy Omni Berkshire Place’s St. Patrick’s Terrace, located on the 17th floor across from the fitness center, showcasing views of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy and leave the details to Omni Berkshire Place.
| | |
|
|
1717 NORTH AKARD STREET
DALLAS
| |
The Fairmont Dallas is ideally located in the heart of the downtown Dallas Arts District & Central Business District. Surrounded by a wide array of Dallas fine dining restaurants, shopping, arts, and entertainment makes Fairmont Dallas a great base to explore the city. Combining hospitality and elegance with that special Texas flair, the Fairmont Dallas is located near Uptown and West Village, offering trendy upscale boutiques, art galleries, inviting eateries, and exciting nightlife. The Fairmont Dallas is less than one mile from the American Airlines Center. | |
WALDORF ASTORIA LAS VEGAS | |
|
3752 LAS VEGAS BOULEVARD SOUTH
LAS VEGAS
| |
|
Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas is a smoke-free, gaming-free respite, offering extraordinary experiences in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. No detail is too small and no spectacle too great. All captured in a singular experience, explore a range of gourmet cuisine, a sprawling five-star spa, and sophisticated room amenities all above a glittering skyline.
Enjoy classic English afternoon tea in the stylish Tea Lounge or handcrafted signature cocktails at SkyBar, both served on the 23rd floor high above Las Vegas Boulevard. Discover the award-winning spa and idyllic eighth-floor pool deck, where relaxation and rejuvenation take center stage. In every guest room, floor-to-ceiling windows, city or Strip views, and spa-soaking tubs can be expected.
Whether guests choose to be a spectator or participant in the dynamic entertainment and nightlife offerings, Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas is an experience in its own, and presents Vegas as it should be.
| |
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 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. | | | | |
