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Volume 8, Issue 1, January 6, 2010 |
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In the wake of the Dec. 25 terrorism attempt on board a Northwest Airlines flight, the debate over using full-body scanners at airport checkpoints has increased with fervor. According to the Associated Press, more travelers now appear willing to forgo privacy concerns in an effort to increase security efforts. Six U.S. airports currently use full-body scanners at certain security checkpoints, while 13 other airports use them for secondary screenings. The Transportation Security Administration has ordered an additional 150 full-body scanners to be installed this year. Privacy concerns have prevented widespread use of these scanners, but many believe the use of them could have prevented suspect Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab from boarding the U.S.-bound aircraft with explosives.
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The new year will see a continued struggle among Delta, United and American as the three airlines seek to amass global presences, particularly on Asian and European routes. The biggest battle of all continues to center on Japan Airlines. Delta and American are battling for ownership stakes in the airline. However, the Obama administration remains divided on whether the airlines should be allowed to share these markets with overseas partners.
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According to a USA Today/Gallup poll, 16 percent of Americans plan to fly more or stay more often in hotels in 2010 than they did in 2009. Another 30 percent of those surveyed say they will fly less frequently and have fewer hotel stays. Optimism remains high among travel industry analysts, however, who believe the travel industry will see a turnaround in 2010.
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Following the attempted terrorist attack on Christmas Day, the Transportation Security Administration introduced new travel restrictions. On average, the restrictions delayed Europe-bound flights by approximately one hour. Among the changes: All onboard communications on flights entering the United States were banned and during the final hour of the flight, passengers were required to remain in their seats and stow all gear.
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Mexico is looking to attract more tourists by inviting same-sex couples from around the world to wed in Mexico City. A new law allowing same-sex marriage was approved Dec. 21 and will take effect in March. Officials believe this initiative will attract extra tourism revenue. Alejandro Rojas, Mexico City’s tourism secretary, announced talks with travel agencies to offer package tours, including flights, hotels, guides and the wedding.
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The Transportation Security Administration introduced a list of 14 countries with terrorism problems. Passengers flying from those countries to the United States will face additional checkpoint screening at international airports. The list targets 10 countries of interest and four nations considered “sponsors of terrorism.”
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Corniche Road, P.O. Box 640
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
tel 971 2 677 3333
I took a taxi from the airport to the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel and Resort. Construction was heavy throughout my stay, making the city hectic and different every day. The taxi driver did his best to get to the hotel without too many twists and turns. After a few attempts, he found the right roundabout to the hotel. I was happy to pull up to the serene lobby of the Sheraton.
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Cathay Pacific is making travel to China easier than ever. The airline announced plans to include 18 cities in China to its 2010 All Asia Pass. The cities were previously offered as $300 add-on options. Cities include Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Guangzhou.
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Consider Boston for your next family getaway. Through March 2, the Hilton Boston Back Bay is offering a Family Escape. With rates beginning at $259 per night, the package includes accommodations, complimentary parking, one free movie and a $200 food credit for use at Forty Dalton, the hotel’s restaurant. The credit can also be used for room service.
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Take the guesswork out of breakfast, lunch and dinner on your next vacation with Bermuda’s Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa’s Dine On Us package. In addition to the property’s complimentary breakfast and traditional afternoon tea, the package includes daily lunch and dinner at the resort’s casual or fine-dining eateries. Options include the Tamarisk Room and Shutters.
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Escape the impending winter blues with special offers from the Young Island Resort in the multi-island nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Through March 31, the resort is offering one free night for every paid night when guests reserve the breakfast-plus-dinner meal plan. Young Island Resort is located off the southern coast of the main island of St. Vincent.
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Taj & Beyond is offering special savings at its four jungle lodges in Madhya Pradesh. Through March 31, guests will save 33 percent on stays. The applicable properties include Mahua Kothi near Bandhavgarh National Park, Baghvan near Pench National Park, Banjaar Tola near Kanha National Park and Pashan Garh near Panna National Park. Travelers also have the option to add a number of safari experiences to the package.
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