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US PASSPORT PROCESSING TIMES DELAYED AGAIN
The US Department of State has announced that passport processing times continue to be delayed amid 'unprecedented demand,' reports Travel Market Report. According to the State Department, routine applications are now taking between 10 and 13 weeks, while expedited applications are now taking between seven and nine weeks. These timelines do not include mailing times, which may take up to two weeks for applications to be mailed, and another two weeks for them to be mailed back, possibly extending the entire application process to 17 weeks, or more than four months, from the time of mailing. The main reason for the longer processing time is the higher demand for passports; 2023 is on track to set the record for the highest demand year ever for passports. The State Department has been working to reduce processing times in a number of ways including “aggressively recruiting and hiring,” offering overtime to its current employees, and opening satellite offices to help process the large number of applications coming in. Additionally, the department encourages all travelers to check their passport expiration date before making any plans for international travel, and to take action to renew their passport well in advance this year. “We are committed to transparency and will continue to provide regular updates about passport processing times, and to encourage Americans to apply for their passport well in advance of any planned international travel to avoid last-minute issues,” the State Department said in its latest update.
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HEATHROW STRIKE FORCES BRITISH AIRWAYS EASTER FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS
More than 1,400 security guards at London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) will strike for 10 days over the Easter break, forcing British Airways to cancel roughly 32 flights a day to and from LHR during the holiday period, reports BBC. The strike, which is expected to last from Friday, March 31, to Easter Sunday, April 9, includes security guards who work at the airport's Terminal 5, which is used exclusively by British Airways, as well as those responsible for checking all cargo that enters the airport. British Airways has been told by the airport to reduce its schedule on those days by five percent and has stopped selling tickets. The airline has begun to offer a range of options to affected travelers. "We've apologized to customers whose travel plans have been affected and have offered them a range of options, including rebooking onto a new flight with us or another airline, or requesting a full refund," the airline said in a statement. LHR said it was deploying 1,000 additional staff, together with its management team, who will be in the terminals providing assistance to travelers over the Easter break. It said it may take "a little longer than usual to get through security," and advised travelers to help ensure a smooth departure by checking their flight status before travelling to the airport, and by having their liquids and electronics ready for security.
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US GOVERNMENT PUSHING FOR NEW AIRLINE PASSENGER BILL OF RIGHTS
US government officials have called for a new “Passenger Bill of Rights” in the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), reports Travel Pulse. During a recent hearing, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation chairperson Senator Maria Cantwell said the updated protocols would “strengthen refund rules, eliminate junk fees, work toward a minimum seat size and make it easier for families to sit together on a flight.” Senator Cantwell also stated, “We must take down the hurdles to getting your money back when you don’t receive the service you paid for. Any travel credits accepted in lieu of refunds should never expire: that’s your money, and should be in your bank account.” To ensure the legislation has 'real teeth' and will be enforced by the Department of Transportation, Senator Cantwell is calling for the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection to be reorganized and fully funded in the reauthorization.
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FAA URGES AIRLINES TO REVIEW SAFETY PROCEDURES AFTER NEAR-MISSES
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a safety alert advising airlines and pilots of steps they should take to maintain safe operations, reports Travel Weekly. The agency put out the alert following a series of runway incursions over the past several months. "In recent months, a number of notable and high-visibility events have occurred in the National Airspace System," the safety alert reads. "While the overall numbers do not reflect an increase in incidents and occurrences, the potential severity of these events is concerning." According to FAA data, there were 615 runway incursions at US airports between October 2022 and the end of February, compared to 642 incursions during the same five-month period the previous years. The FAA is urging airlines and pilots to emphasize the importance of awareness of aircraft in relation to taxiways, runways, and other aircraft. The agency has also cautioned airlines to make sure pilots and flight attendants understand the risks associated with extraneous communication during takeoff and landing.
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1-2 SERJEANTS' INN
LONDON
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Buried in the heart of London, a new type of luxury awaits at this elegant 4-star hotel. Its central location, eye-catching interiors and historic façade make it the perfect Fleet Street hotel. Guests can eat and sleep opulence when choosing between spacious superior rooms and amazing master suites. Guests are also invited to dine at Chambers Restaurant to enjoy fresh and fine food or visit the chic wine bar, Lazy Ballerinas, to take their taste buds on a tour of the wines from all over the world. | |
CAMBRIA HOTEL HOUSTON DOWNTOWN CONVENTION CENTER | |
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1314 TEXAS AVENUE
HOUSTON
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Experience a modern twist on historic Art Deco architecture at the upscale downtown Houston hotel. Located in one of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers, the AAA Four Diamond hotel offers upgraded amenities and classic Texas charm. The décor at the Cambria Hotel Houston Downtown Convention Center reflects the unique spirit of Texas’ largest metro area, with design elements that reflect the Old West, the oil industry and NASA’s influence on the city. The amenities at Cambria Hotel Houston Downtown Convention Center invite guests to indulge in the little luxuries that make travel fun. Enjoy a locally inspired meal at The Rig restaurant or sample a specialty cocktail or local craft beer at the bar. In guestrooms, find smart TVs, premium bedding, and spa-style bathrooms, as well as Bluetooth mirrors for guests to stream some favorite music or podcasts. | | |
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2025 AVENUE OF THE STARS
LOS ANGELES
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Since opening its doors in 1966, Century Plaza has been a Los Angeles landmark. From iconic moments throughout pop culture to contemporary modern luxury located in the heart of the city, the new Fairmont Century Plaza is at the center of it all. Most recently, the Fairmont Spa earned the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating as one of its 2023 Star Award winners. The hotel is at the core of a city within a city full of countless diversions, home to French brasserie, Lumière and within walking distance to chic boutiques in the Westside’s most walkable neighborhood. The Fairmont Century Plaza brings the spirit of Los Angeles, throughout every facet of the hotel. Los Angeles’ luxury landmark, Fairmont Century Plaza is completely re-imagined to include 400 spacious guest rooms and 85 suites, all with private terraces, bringing guests the best the city has to offer. Revel in the 14,000 square foot breathtaking Fairmont Spa, fully equipped Technogym and rooftop pool with unparalleled views of the cityscape. | | |
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1401 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Located near The White House, InterContinental Willard has played host to the world's social and political elite and has been the site of many historical moments since 1818. A luxury hotel in Washington, DC, often referred to as the "Residence of Presidents," Intercontinental Willard has welcomed presidents, foreign dignitaries, and celebrities alike. Experience Five-Star service at this downtown Washington, DC hotel and savor masterfully handcrafted cocktails in the iconic Round Robin Bar. Sophisticated guest rooms and luxury amenities are the highlights of the historic InterContinental Willard and guests can be pampered with a relaxing spa treatment, indulge in gourmet dining, or recharge at the 24-hour, state-of-the-art fitness center. | | |
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2100 WEST END AVENUE
NASHVILLE
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Guests can escape in old and new Nashville at the iconic, award-winning Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. The Nashville hotel near Broadway is a stage for exploring the vibrant city so many call home. Loews Vanderbilt Hotel is located in midtown Nashville across from Vanderbilt University in the West End - off the tourist path - just minutes from Nashville’s most renowned attractions. Loews Vanderbilt Hotel’s accommodations include 339 luxurious guestrooms, including 9 suites and complimentary Wi-Fi in every guest room and in public spaces. Mason Bar features craft cocktails, local beers, and a nine-screen video wall with a cozy & friendly Nashville vibe. Flavor by Loews Vanderbilt Hotel brings an authentically local culinary experience directly to guests at this Nashville hotel. | | |
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340 STOCKTON STREET
SAN FRANCISCO
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A quintessential San Francisco landmark, Taj Campton Place occupies an enviable east side location on Union Square, just steps from the city’s finest shopping and dining. Built over a century ago, it blends the elegance of a bygone era with the modern luxuries travelers love most, including an open-air rooftop fitness terrace. In one of San Francisco’s most serene and beautiful dining rooms, guests can savor an exceptional start to the day. From a classic baker’s basket of fresh pastries to full breakfasts that range from heart-healthy to deliciously heavy, the Campton Place Restaurant masters the morning meal. The cozy and intimate Bar & Bistro is a favorite of guests and locals, who drop in this “see and be seen” bar in San Francisco to enjoy Taj Campton Place's elevated comfort food, beautifully paired with a menu of craft cocktails and fine wines. Guests can also indulge in deliciously imaginative cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus sweet and savory mini-bar snacks and sips straight from California Wine Country in the comfort and privacy of guest rooms or suites. | | |
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700 FIFTH AVENUE
NEW YORK CITY
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Ideally located on Fifth Avenue and 55th Street in Midtown Manhattan, The Peninsula New York is in the heart of the city’s most prestigious shopping, entertainment, and cultural district. The hotel is within walking distance of Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue shopping, excellent restaurants, historic museums, and exciting Broadway theatres. The Peninsula New York is honored to be the recipient of some of the most prestigious accolades in the hospitality industry, including the Forbes Five Star rating and the AAA Five Diamond awards. An oasis in the heart of Manhattan with luxurious apartment styled rooms and suites offers guests a quintessentially New York experience and a perfect respite from the city that never sleeps. Clement restaurant offers notable American Fare cuisine, designed to highlight an approachable sensibility to midtown dining. Clement, and its adjoining bar, features fresh new dishes, a hand-crafted cocktail menu, and seasonal events. A chic rooftop bar and terrace offers panoramic views over Fifth Avenue and the glittering skyline of Manhattan. | |
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. | | | | |
