January 17, 2016: With more than 1000 stores, restaurants, attractions (indoor skiing, ice skating, largest indoor aquarium, mini theme parks) and other consumer needs — like a complete walk in medical center — the mall continues to grow, and leaves no open space undecorated or not themed — like the colorful umbrella alley or multi story dancing waterfall. Even if you don’t shop, the visual experience is worth the visit.
January 11, 2016: US airlines are trying to “sell” passengers that, despite smaller seats and more passengers on each plane, their flights are going to be more comfortable. They say the reason is related to newer planes being manufactured with new composite lighter materials — that will result in changes in cabin atmosphere that will be more humid reducing dry eyes and dry throats. They also say larger windows and wider aisles will help passenger comfort levels — trying to figure out how that works with smaller tighter seating and more passengers on each flight?
January 10, 2016: American and Alaska are in the midst of introducing new flight crew uniforms — and both program are making flight crews unhappy and itchy. American has logged over 2,000 complaints from their flight crews who complain the uncomfortable wool-based outfits are not only uncomfortable but cause hives, wheezing, coughing and headaches. Employees not only want the uniforms replaced but are also demanding they be reimbursed for the cost of their medical bills. An uncomfortable situation for the airlines, flight crews and maybe even passengers?
January 9, 2016: The Mexican Government has issued a warming to travelers not to fly on the air carrier Interjet — they cite serious safety issues. The government says many of Interjets Russian-built Sukhoi Super jets are showing cracks on the exterior of their planes. Think safety — find another airline!
January 6, 2016: Any time an airline flies over a foreign country, they owe their host country rent for using their airspace. This worldwide service is governed by the International Civil Aviation Organization and includes the airlines right to land, refuel or repair — with additional fees if the plane has to make an unscheduled stop. The foreign air space fee in the US is around $57 a nautical mile. Airlines worldwide might alter their flight route based on the most cost efficient route to their destination.
( I don’t know about you, but I’m glad they’re checking!)
January 4, 2016: United plans to introduce a new limited availability super low economy fare — but what’s the catch? Extra fees for just about everything — including any items (brief case, computer case, hand bag, etc.) passengers carry on the flight. Maybe a way to fill a few extra seats but certainly not customer friendly.
January 2, 2016: Here are a few Travel Curmudgeon Travel Tips for the New Year:
December 30, 2016: Time Square is the cliche travel destination to celebrate the new year — and while it might be something worth doing once, the densely overcrowded streets of New York aren’t as glamorous as they seem. For a more unique and create destination to celebrate the new year, check out some of these locations recommended by Lonely Planet, from New Orleans to Sydney, Australia.
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/where-to-expand-your-horizons-this-new-years-eve
