It’s not a pretty picture for the once booming travel industry. It’s looking like 4.9 million travel industry jobs will be gone by the end of April and nearly 6 million jobs eliminated by the end of the year. Looking more and more like governments, in an effort to bail out airlines, might also become their “financial big brother” and partner … ???
Over 10,000 passengers are still stranded on a variety of cruise ships word-wide that have not been able to dock due to virus concerns — and yes, there are passengers sick on some of these ships. Not a way to “experience” a memorable holiday!
Yup — happened earlier this month when Air Tahiti Nui flew nonstop from Paris to Tahiti — a distance of 9,534 miles — longer than the current record from Newark to Singapore held by Singapore Airlines — flight time about 16 hours and 30 minutes with good tail winds. Wow!!!
Maybe — with most US airlines looking at initially cutting ALL services — domestic and international by more than 30 % — the federal government is considering letting the airlines keep the government and airport fees included with every ticket sale — and maybe some of the taxes on tickets too — could be a substantial amount (or gift)… as taxes and fees can add up to 20% or more for the average air travel ticket. With the first part of the year normally being a very slow travel time, many carriers could make more $$$’s by not flying!!!
Most popular fast food item enjoyed when traveling — a Subway sandwich. The worldwide chain now sells over 5,300 subs a MINUTE (oh I think I have indigestion).
Second in world wide popularity is the Big Mac, followed closely by Mac Fries! Other filling items travelers like include Cheerios, Cheetos and Pop Tarts — and for stay at home folks, most popular eating item: Kraft Mac and Cheese! Lots of non healthy choices for all!!!
In keeping with its tradition of annual Park admission increases, the Magic Kingdom has once again raised prices with some — depending on time of the year — tickets exceeding $200 per day per guest! The pricing is part of a somewhat complicated pricing format that takes in time of the year and park options — including digital max passes for rides. No doubt some of the price increases will go to help support the Park’s billion dollar investment in their new Star Wars Land — somewhat disappointing so far attendance wise — as well as corporate bottom lines. Watch for another price increase this summer when Disney’s California Park opens their new Marvel Comics land and attractions. Pricing “over the moon” maybe?
Yup — after much criticism from both renters and property owners, airbnb is trying to clean up.
Come this October, flyers around the US must have a Real ID — usually part of your drivers license — to board a flight — unless you have a passport as that will also serve as a Real ID. The problem in California is very few folks have accomplished the time consuming task that must be completed through the Department of Motor Vehicles — meaning an in-person visit either with a drivers license renewal or to get the new drivers license that includes the Real ID designation. Only 25% of those eligible (about 27 million plus are eligible) have done this so far. To obtain the ID, you have to show up in person at a DMV office and have at least 3 forms of identification to prove who you are — and all must match with your full correct name. In some cases you can make an appointment — usually about 4 months out — or show up in person and wait — usually an hour or more more more! The law — part of Homeland Security’s effort to maximize air travel safety — has been on the books for several years with the October pending deadline…..don’t delay, do it now now now!!!
