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Starbucks Sucks Up Straws

July 18, 2018: Starbucks has become the newest member of the anti-straw movement and will eliminate using all disposable straws by 2020 — that means over 1 million fewer straws being distributed in their 28,000 plus stores worldwide! Frappuccino users please don’t fret — you will still be able to use a straw — but one made from either paper or compostable plastic — Starbucks earned over $22.4 BILLION in annual revenue last year so I’m sure they’ll find a way to make customers “suck up” any additional costs for the change!!!

If You Rent Your Home Through Airbnb — Check your Homeowners Insurance

July 12, 2018: Airbnb sounds easy, but you need to check your homeowners policy to make sure you’re covered for any damage — and your rental is legal. Some cities require a permit, limit the number of days you can rent and may put a tourist or sales tax on your revenue. Allstate has a policy that offers to cover $10,000 in rental liability — for $50 a year. And, you need to pay taxes on your rental earnings. The TC is not an Airbnb fan, but if you do rent through them, cover thy self!!!

Travelers Report Interesting New Quirky Ice Cream Flavors

July 11, 2018: Ho-Chi Minh ice cream lovers can order “Artisan Gelato” — that would be a fish sauce gelato sorbet. On the West Coast, ice cream foodies can find Black Olive Brittle or Goat Cheese Avocado, or try a double scoop of Bay Leaf and Tomato Jam. The Italians have it right — they just pour vodka over their ice cream — or try blending that with a pinch of sugar and some heavy cream. Mangia!!!

What Does Dunkin Get with Crossing Fries?

July 10, 2018: Donut fries — yup — one of America’s iconic food companies, DUNKIN DONUTS, has crossed the food line with a taste new item —  donut fries — gotta be the best of the fried fast food world! Only item better would be a Big Mac — with a donut inside instead of a burger — Keep our American fast food great?

Thumbs Down From the FAA on Your Flying Bum Space??

July 9, 2018: The FAA has turned down a request from consumer action groups to regulate the size — and width — of airplane seats. Over the years, airplane seat size has shrunk from 18.5 inches to 17 inches — with a few carriers talking about taking away another inch. And yes, Americans bottoms are expanding along with their weight: The average man now weights 196 pounds and sports a 40 inch waist —and to give women equal rights, various health groups say the average women is about the same weight with a-waist size of 38 inches. Seat pitch — how far the back of the seat in front of you is has gone from 35 to 31 inches. The FAA says airplane seat size is something that should be worked out between the airlines and passengers — so, travelers, take some action!!!

Pop Up Airfares Look Carefully and Quickly

July 5, 2018: Yup – airlines are taking advantage of the popular “pop up” food truck or stand concept with their own version— pop up airfares — fares show up, usually late at night or early am via email, and offer some great discounts if you can move quickly and have flexible travel dates. With fuel prices going up — so will airline fares — pop up sales offer airlines the ability to quickly discount remaining seats from their computer managed inventories. Alaska has taken the pop up lead so far — but watch for others, including a few European carriers to “pop into” the game!!!