American Express Platinum Card Access To Lufthansa Lounges Extended To All LH-Group Flights

Lufthansa has made a vital change to the lounge access policy for American Express Platinum Card members who are seeking to utilize select Lufthansa lounges in Germany under the mutual agreement.

From now on, customers who have a same-day flight with the Lufthansa Group (Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Edelweiss Air, Eurowings, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa, Lufthansa City Airlines, SWISS) are eligible to use the lounge.

Previously, the issue was that the official rule said only flights operated by Lufthansa, Austrian and SWISS were eligible to enter the lounge with the Platinum Card (Business or Personal) and other LH Group airlines would not be considered.

The cooperation between American Express and Lufthansa is going on for roughly seven years now and has been a really valuable tool for travelers who travel on Lufthansa tickets as other lounges are rather rare at German airports, at least in the departure zone.

Both companies have extended their partnership on a regular basis:

Previously, only lounges in Frankfurt and Munich participated in the system, but now Lufthansa has opened the countrywide network of Lufthansa Lounges at other airports as well.

In recent years, Lufthansa has started to push more and more of its routes to be operated by other airlines such as Eurowings and Discover, so the change was more than necessary.

At least now, passengers finally have access to the lounge, no matter what airline of the Lufthansa Group they travel on. Only ITA is not listed, so either that was an oversight or has to be added later.

Conclusion

American Express and Lufthansa have expanded the rulework for Lufthansa Lounge access in Germany when presenting a Personal Platinum or Business Platinum Card.

Now all flights of the Lufthansa Group are eligible for access which means that a boarding pass of Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Edelweiss Air, Eurowings, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa, Lufthansa City Airlines and SWISS is sufficient.

Keep in mind that the access rules differ for Economy flights (access to the Business Class Lounge), Business Class flights (access to the Senator Lounge) and Centurion Card members even have access to the excellent Lufthansa First Class Lounges, however not to the First Class Terminal.

Frida Kahlo’s Popularity Raises Eyebrows At Tate Modern, 25 June 2026 – 3 January 2027

Interest in the Mexican artist has exploded since the gallery last exhibited her, making her pieces — whose fans include Madonna — harder to borrow.

Frida Kahlo may be helping to write women into art history, but her popularity has made it hard to gather paintings for an exhibition.

Curators of the forthcoming Kahlo showcase at Tate Modern have only been able to secure 36 of the Mexican artist’s pieces, with Madonna among those refusing to lend their cherished works.

When Tate Modern last held a major Kahlo exhibition in 2005, more than 50 paintings, including two owned by the pop star, were put on public display.

Tobias Ostrander, a curator of Frida: The Making of an Icon, which opens in June, said the difficulties securing loans were part of the reason the gallery had “slightly” fewer Kahlo paintings than two decades ago.

“In general the [36] works were very specifically chosen to address certain themes but you know, there are ones we have tried for that people won’t loan,” Ostrander said. “Madonna is someone who did loan in 2005 but won’t loan now, for example.”

Frida Kahlo, Still Life (I Belong to Samuel Fastlich), 1951 PRIVATE COLLECTION

There had been hopes that Kahlo’s record-breaking self-portrait, which was sold for £41.8 million in November, would be part of the exhibition. Ostrander said Tate was still trying to secure a loan of El sueño (La cama) from the artwork’s unidentified buyer but admitted it was “unlikely”.

Catherine Wood, Tate Modern’s chief curator, said in 2005 it had been “quite early” to give Kahlo a full retrospective, adding that this year’s exhibition was more focused on how the Mexican artist had “shaped the canon” for future generations.

Scores of works by about 80 artists influenced by Kahlo are due to be displayed alongside many of the Mexican artist’s most acclaimed pieces, including Untitled (Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird) and Self-Portrait in a Velvet Dress.

Wood said the exhibition would trace how Kahlo rose to become the “global phenomenon that she is today”, adding: “When we showed her she was one of the relatively few female artists who were being shown in museums and entering the pretty much all-male canon.

“It is very interesting at this point to look at how she has shaped the canon for future generations.”

Kahlo, who died in 1954 aged 47, was relatively unknown during her lifetime and often in the shadow of her husband and fellow artist, Diego Rivera. Until the 1990s, the record price for one of her works at auction was under $500,000.

Interest in Kahlo was turbo-charged this century, perhaps helped by a biopic in 2002 starring Salma Hayek, with her self-portraits in particular increasingly drawing the attention of institutions and collectors.

Buying or securing the loan of a Kahlo masterpiece is further complicated by Mexico’s refusal to allow any of her artworks to be exported without authorisation.Buying or securing the loan of a Kahlo masterpiece is further complicated by Mexico’s refusal to allow any of her artworks to be exported without authorisation.

However, there is plenty of Kahlo merchandise to be bought. One section of Tate Modern’s exhibition will focus on “Fridamania” and the artist’s “transformation into a global brand”.

More than 200 objects “generated by the mass-market production of Frida Kahlo merchandise” — which has seen her image appear on thousands of items from period pads to Tequila bottles — will also be on display.

However, there is plenty of Kahlo merchandise to be bought. One section of Tate Modern’s exhibition will focus on “Fridamania” and the artist’s “transformation into a global brand”.

More than 200 objects “generated by the mass-market production of Frida Kahlo merchandise” — which has seen her image appear on thousands of items from period pads to Tequila bottles — will also be on display.

Frida Kahlo photographed by Julien Levy in 1938 COURTESY PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART

Ostrander said while Kahlo was a communist — one of her many affairs was with Leon Trotsky — the artist was “clear about her image being a product or having an exchange value”.

“One forgets that she was producing these self-portraits to sell,” he added.

The curator said the exhibition would be “self-conscious about the idea of a blockbuster, it will look critically at why we are so obsessed with Frida, what are we buying, what does she symbolise”.

He added: “It will be interesting because that Fridamania section will be right next to the [Tate Modern] shop.”

Please visit: https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
https://www.thetimes.com/profile/david-sanderson

The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show Returns To The Pennsylvania Convention Center February 28th To March 8th, This Year's Theme, "Rooted: Origins Of American Gardening,"

The 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show is back, transforming the Pennsylvania Convention Center into a floral wonderland! This year's theme, "Rooted: Origins of American Gardening," explores the traditions and cultural influences that have shaped gardening in our country. You'll see breathtaking exhibits, attend workshops, and learn from experts at the Pennsylvania Convention Center from February 28th to March 8th.

For more information, please visit: https://phsonline.org/the-flower-show

America's Spark Of Independence Still Shines In The Always Revolutionary Richmond Region

This year, travelers are invited to experience a destination where revolutionary ideas aren't just part of history—they're happening every day.

The Richmond Region in Virginia is central to America's story. Here, Patrick Henry's fiery “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech sparked the fight for independence and secured the region's place at the forefront of change. In 2026, that legacy takes center stage as the nation marks 250 years of independence, with a powerful lineup of exhibitions and events unfolding across the Richmond Region.

Richmond Region Tourism is highlighting this legacy through its Always Revolutionary campaign, which invites travelers to explore the people, places and ideas that have shaped and continue to define the region.

“There's never been a better time to visit the Richmond Region,” said Katherine O'Donnell, President & CEO of Richmond Region Tourism. “In 2026, our localities are bringing history to life through stories that reflect the diverse people, cultures and communities who have shaped this region, while also showcasing the innovative Always Revolutionary spirit that continues to define us today.”

A Milestone Year for History and Heritage

Visitors can take part in America's founding story at sites across the Richmond Region. They can stand where Patrick Henry delivered his legendary call for liberty at Historic St. John's Church, explore Patrick Henry's only surviving home at Scotchtown, and tour the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson. At The Valentine First Freedom Center, visitors can explore the lasting impact of the Statute for Religious Freedom, one of Virginia's most influential contributions to democratic ideals.

Between Richmond, which became Virginia's capital during the Revolutionary War, and Williamsburg, the colony's earlier capital, New Kent County adds some of the region's most significant connections to the Revolutionary story. Visitors can explore the grounds of St. Peter's Parish Church, rumored to be the wedding site of George and Martha Washington, and stay overnight at the historic New Kent Ordinary, one of America's oldest roadside taverns. Nearby, the James Lafayette Monument honors an enslaved man who became a key American spy during the Revolutionary War.

History continues in places shaped directly by the war itself, including Colonial Heights, named for the colonial forces stationed along the Appomattox River during the fight for independence.

In Chesterfield County, Henricus Historical Park brings 1611 to life at the second successful English settlement in the New World, where early foundations of American society were formed along the James River.

The Richmond Region also illuminates the places and people often left out of traditional narratives. Opening April 19, the restored Skipwith–Roper Cottage in Richmond's Jackson Ward will honor Abraham Peyton Skipwith, the first known Black homeowner in the neighborhood, circa 1793.

That broader approach to history also includes new efforts to examine the region's role in slavery and its lasting impact. Opening April 9, the Shockoe Institute's Expanding Freedom exhibit at Main Street Station will provide new context for understanding Richmond's role in the domestic slave trade and its enduring legacy, expanding how the region's history is examined and understood.

The Always Revolutionary digital trail guides visitors to key historic sites across the Richmond Region, highlighting the places where events unfolded and ideas took root during the fight for independence.

2026 Commemorations: Celebrating 250 Years of Independence
Throughout the year, visitors can experience landmark exhibitions and events tied to America's 250th anniversary. Richmond Sailfest (June 12–14) welcomes international tall ships to the James River for a free, festival-style weekend of performances and history.

At the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Revolutionary Allies (March 7–Nov. 1) and We the People (March 21–Sept. 7) explore the people and partnerships that shaped the nation. The museum will also host IllumiNATION (June 25–28), a large-scale outdoor sound and projection show illuminating America's 250-year story across its block-long façade.

At the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, exhibitions and outreach programs in 2026 will examine the American Revolution and its ideals through art, including a gallery exhibition focused on George Washington and artistic interpretations of the Revolution, as well as a statewide mobile exhibition exploring themes of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness through works from the museum's permanent collection.

Historic St. John's Church continues its iconic “Liberty or Death” reenactments on summer Sundays, while Patrick Henry's Scotchtown hosts the Governor Celebration on Sept. 19. At The Valentine, Dissent! Liberty & Loyalty in Early Richmond (Feb. 26–Jan. 31, 2027) examines the tensions of a young nation. The Branch Museum of Design presents Americana (opening July 2), exploring the symbols and stories that have shaped American identity.

Together, these events are part of a broader slate of commemorations unfolding throughout 2026 as the Richmond Region marks America's 250th anniversary.

Revolutionary Voices and Revolutionary Ideas

The Richmond Region's story is defined not only by pivotal moments, but by the people whose voices challenged convention and expanded opportunity. Visitors can explore the legacy of poet Edgar Allan Poe at the Poe Museum, walk in the footsteps of Maggie Lena Walker at the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, and learn about figures such as John Marshall, Henry “Box” Brown, and Virginia Randolph.

Revolutionary ideas took form here in ways that transformed daily life, from the world's first successful electric streetcar system, introduced in Richmond in 1888, to student-led civil rights protests that helped drive social change.

That tradition of innovation continues today. Introduced in 2025 at Kings Dominion amusement park, Rapterra, the world's tallest and longest launched wing coaster, illustrates how revolutionary ideas in engineering and design continue to emerge in the Richmond Region.

Reinvention is also visible at the neighborhood level. Once an industrial district, Scott's Addition has transformed into one of the region's most dynamic areas, known for its mix of breweries, restaurants, creative businesses and residential development.

Revolutionary Spirit, Modern Momentum

In 2026, the Richmond Region's revolutionary spirit extends well beyond its historic sites. CarMax Park, the new home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, opens April 7 and anchors a new era of baseball and entertainment in the Diamond District. A longtime tradition also reaches a milestone as Richmond Raceway celebrates its 80th anniversary, honoring decades of racing history at one of America's premier short tracks.

The region's momentum is driven by its people and neighborhoods. Richmond's legacy of Black business excellence, rooted in Jackson Ward, remains a defining force. That creativity is especially visible in the region's ever-evolving food scene, including national recognition for chefs such as Leah Branch of The Roosevelt, a recent James Beard Award nominee.

Several beloved attractions will debut major enhancements in 2026. Maymont celebrates its 100th anniversary as a public park with the spring reopening of its mansion and expanded Virginia Wildlife Trail. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will unveil its reimagined Conservatory in spring 2026, doubling the iconic domed structure in size, adding four distinct climate zones, and introducing a permanent butterfly exhibit. Later in the year, Brown's Island will debut a revitalized riverfront.

Ready to Visit?

Whether drawn by the nation's founding story, inspired by voices of change, or energized by what's new, 2026 is the moment to experience the Richmond Region. Together, the Richmond Region's people and places add depth to Virginia's broader VA250 commemoration. With history that still resonates and a future shaped by bold ideas, this is a place that's Always Revolutionary.

Start planning a trip at VisitRichmondVA.com.

Beyond Tokyo: Eight Cherry Blossom Destinations In Tohoku And Nearby Regions, Linked By Shinkansen

Japan's Tohoku region occupies the northeastern part of Honshu, comprising six prefectures—Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, and Fukushima. Surrounded by mountain ranges and river valleys, with castle towns and rural landscapes scattered throughout, the area becomes one of Japan's most appealing spring destinations when cherry blossoms reach their peak.🌸

Blooming later than Tokyo, many locations across the region typically reach their best viewing period from late April to early May, though exact timing varies by year and latitude. Because flowering progresses gradually from south to north, travelers can follow the season by rail, linking several destinations in a single itinerary.

Miharu Takizakura, Fukushima

A Millennium-Old Weeping Cherry Tree

Located north of Tokyo in Fukushima Prefecture, Miharu Takizakura is regarded as one of Japan's most famous individual cherry trees. Estimated to be over 1,000 years old, this massive weeping cherry stands alone on a hillside and attracts visitors from across the country each spring. Its usual peak season falls in late April.

Hirosaki Park, Aomori

Castle Grounds Framed in Blossoms

Hirosaki Park in Aomori Prefecture is known for its more than 2,500 cherry trees surrounding a former feudal castle. During peak season, petals often blanket the park's moats, creating a phenomenon known locally as hana-ikada, or “flower rafts.” It is considered one of northern Japan's most important cherry blossom sites.

Kakunodate Samurai District, Akita

Weeping Cherries Along Historic Streets

On the Sea of Japan side of Honshu, Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture is famous for its preserved samurai residences. Rows of weeping cherry trees line the streets, while nearby riverside paths offer additional blossom views, making the town well suited for strolling during the season.

Koiwai Farm, Iwate

A Lone Tree with Mount Iwate in the Background

At Koiwai Farm in Iwate Prefecture, a single cherry tree stands in open pastureland with Mount Iwate rising behind it. The contrast between lingering snow on the peak and pale pink blossoms below has made the scene a well-known spring image in the region.

Hitome Senbonzakura, Miyagi

A Riverside Avenue of Blossoms

In southern Miyagi Prefecture, more than 1,000 cherry trees line the banks of the Shiroishi River. Known collectively as Hitome Senbonzakura—literally “a thousand trees at a glance”—the long stretch of blossoms draws visitors who walk the riverside paths and view reflections on the water in the evening.

Cherry Blossoms with Mount Gassan, Yamagata

Snow-Capped Peaks and Spring Flowers

In Yamagata Prefecture, cherry trees bloom against the backdrop of Mount Gassan, whose summit often retains snow well into spring. The contrast between white mountain ridges and pale blossoms creates a distinctive seasonal landscape, popular for photography and relaxed countryside walks.

Takada Castle Park, Niigata

A Waterside Display After Dark

Takada Castle Park in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, features more than 4,000 cherry trees lining its moats and waterways. The park is known for nighttime illuminations during the blossom season, offering a different atmosphere from daytime visits.

Ueda Castle Ruins Park, Nagano

Blossoms Among Historic Stone Walls

In Nagano Prefecture, Ueda Castle Ruins Park combines cherry trees with stone ramparts and garden spaces left from the former fortress. Visitors can walk the grounds while enjoying views of flowers framed by historic structures.

🚈Access from Tokyo by Shinkansen🚈

All of these destinations are connected to Tokyo by Japan's high-speed rail network. Typical travel times include about 1 hour 20 minutes to Fukushima, 1 hour 30 minutes to Sendai, 2 hours 10 minutes to Morioka, and around 3 hours to Shin-Aomori. Because peak bloom dates vary between cities, travelers can plan northbound routes that follow the season across multiple prefectures.

Planning the Journey

Because cherry blossom timing differs across the region, Tohoku lends itself well to itineraries that combine several cities by train. Seasonal scenery along the way and changing local character from stop to stop add to the appeal of spring travel in eastern Japan.

Seats on Shinkansen services can be reserved in advance through JR East Train Reservation

Demand tends to be high during blossom season, so early booking can make itinerary planning easier.

From Tokyo, travelers can map out a northbound route and turn a spring visit to eastern Japan into a multi-stop rail journey centered on cherry blossoms.

🌸A Sakura Seeker's Paradise | JR-EAST https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/sakura/🌸

Travelore News: Volaris Launches 33 New Flights, Deepening Mexico-US Connectivity Ahead Of The World Cup

Low-cost Mexican airline Volaris has announced a significant network expansion with 33 new routes, set to begin operating in June 2026. This massive expansion aims to boost tourism and business connectivity across North America, timed perfectly with the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The new network includes 11 international routes connecting to the United States and 22 domestic routes within Mexico. The new flights introduce services to four new airports, including Detroit (DTW) and Salt Lake City (SLC) in the U.S., and Saltillo (SLW) and Reynosa (REX) in Mexico. Key hubs like Guadalajara (GDL), Puebla (PBC), Querétaro (QRO), and San Luis Potosí (SLP) will see increased connectivity, particularly strengthening access to Texas markets such as Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio.

With matches scheduled in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, efficient transportation for fans is crucial. This expansion strengthens regional airports and provides travelers with direct, affordable options to reach these host cities and other destinations, with an estimated 5 million travelers expected in Mexico for the tournament. Cancún is already uniquely positioned as the only airport in Mexico with direct flights to all 16 World Cup host cities, a status further solidified by industry-wide growth.

The new routes are now on sale and scheduled to start in the first week of June 2026.

Mardi Gras In New Orleans Makes Changes To It’s Famous Beads A Year After Bringing In Ban

Beads are back, but not the cheap plastic ones.

New Orleans is immersed in Carnival season, synonymous with its myriad green, gold, and purple Mardi Gras beads. Once cherished glass keepsakes, eagerly caught by parade-goers, these have evolved into countless cheap plastic necklaces, mass-produced overseas and flung from floats.

While many spectators adorn themselves with dozens, a significant number are discarded or left strewn across the streets. The environmental toll became starkly apparent a few years ago when, following severe flooding, the city discovered over 46 tons obstructing its storm drains. This growing ecological concern presents a dilemma: the beads are now widely seen as a problem, yet a Mardi Gras without them feels almost unimaginable.

In a radical move towards sustainability, the Krewe of Freret took the decision last year to prohibit plastic beads from their parade entirely.

“Our riders loved it because the spectators don’t value this anymore,” Freret co-founder Greg Rhoades said. “It’s become so prolific that they dodge out of the way when they see cheap plastic beads coming at them."

This year, beads are back, but not the cheap plastic ones. Freret is one of three krewes throwing biodegradable beads developed at Louisiana State University.

The “PlantMe Beads” are 3D-printed from a starch-based, commercially available material called polylactic acid, or PLA, graduate student Alexis Strain said. The individual beads are large hollow spheres containing okra seeds. That is because the necklaces can actually be planted, and the okra attracts bacteria that help them decompose.

Kristi Trail, executive director of the Pontchartrain Conservancy, said plastic beads are a twofold problem. First, they clog the storm drains, leading to flooding. Then those that aren’t caught in the drains are washed directly into Lake Pontchartrain, where they can harm marine life. The group is currently preparing to study microplastics in the lake.

The trend toward a more sustainable Mardi Gras has been growing for years and includes a small but growing variety of more thoughtful throws like food, soaps and sunglasses. Trail said there is no good data right now to say if those efforts are having an impact, but the group recently got a grant that should help them answer the question in the future.

“Beads are obviously a problem, but we generate about 2.5 million pounds of trash from Mardi Gras,” Trail said.

Strain works in the lab of Professor Naohiro Kato, an associate professor of biology at LSU. He first got the idea to develop biodegradable beads in 2013 after talking to people concerned about the celebration's environmental impact. As a plant biologist, Kato knew that bioplastics could be made from plants and got curious about the possibilities.

The first iteration of the lab's biodegradable beads came in 2018, when they produced beads made from a bioplastic derived from microalgae. However, production costs were too high for the algae-based beads to offer a practical alternative to petroleum-based beads. Then Strain started experimenting with 3D printing, and the PlantMe Bead was born.

For the 2026 Carnival season, LSU students have produced 3,000 PlantMe Bead necklaces that they are giving to three krewes in exchange for feedback on the design and on how well they are received by spectators.

One funny thing, Kato said, is that people have told him they love how unique the PlantMe Beads are and want to keep them.

“So wait a minute, if you want to keep it, the petroleum-plastic Mardi Gras bead is the best, because this won’t last,” he said.

The lab is still working on ideas for a more sustainable Mardi Gras. Strain is experimenting with a different 3D printer material that biodegrades quickly without needing to be planted. Kato is talking with local schools about turning Mardi Gras bead-making into a community project. He envisions students 3D printing necklaces while learning about bioplastics and plant biology. And he is still exploring ways to make algae-based bioplastic commercially viable.

Ultimately, however, Kato said, the goal should not be to replace one plastic bead with a less harmful one. He hopes Mardi Gras embraces the idea of less waste.

Rhoades said Freret is moving in the same direction.

“In 2025, we were the first krewe — major parading organization — to say, ‘No more. No more cheap beads. Let’s throw things that people value, that people appreciate, that can be used year-round,’ " Rhoades said.

One of the most coveted items they throw is baseball hats with the Freret logo. He sees people wearing the hats around the city, and he says other krewes have noticed.

“I really believe that we, and other krewes, are able to inspire your larger krewes,” he said. “They want people to like their stuff. They want people take their stuff home, and use it, and talk about it, and post it on social media, and say, ‘Look what I just caught!’ ”

https://www.independent.co.uk/author/stephen-smith