Ukraine Celebrated Christmas On Dec. 25 For The First Time, Distancing Itself From Russia

Christmas carried more than spiritual weight for many Ukrainians this year as the country newly observed it as a public holiday on Dec. 25 rather than the later date followed in Russia.

The change, enacted in legislation signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in July, reflects both Ukrainians’ dismay with the 22-month-old Russian invasion and their assertion of a national identity.

Ukraine is predominantly Orthodox Christian, but the faith is divided between two churches, one of which had long affiliation with the Russian Orthodox Church.

The Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which didn’t recognize the authority of the Russian church and had been regarded as schismatic, was granted full recognition in 2019 by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Orthodoxy’s top authority.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which was a branch of the Russian church, announced in 2022 after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war that it was breaking ties with Moscow and considered itself autonomous. However, its parishes continue to follow the same liturgical calendar as the Russian church and will observe Christmas on Jan. 7.

Many Ukrainians embraced the move to celebrate Christmas on Dec. 25 with enthusiasm.

“It’s historical justice,” said Yevhen Konyk, a 44-year-old serviceman who, along with his family, participated in traditional celebrations at an open-air museum in Kyiv. “We need to move forward not only with the world but also with the traditions of our country and overcome the imperial remnants we had.”

In the village of Kryvorivnia, thousands of worshipers, many in traditional garb including the embroidered shirts called vyshyvankas, crowded the streets and streamed to the settlement’s noted elaborate wooden church.

Kryvorivnia, in the Carpathian mountains, is about 800 kilometers (500 miles) west from the frontline, but the war was on the minds of the worshipers. “People didn’t just come to observe the celebration, they came to pray,” said local priest Ivan Rybaruk, who said 16 people from the village of only 1,500 residents have died in the fighting.

“People understand that we live here as safe as it could be. Missiles don’t fly here, bombs don’t explode, but we have lost a lot of guys,” said 27-year-old Olha Mynykh, standing in front of the house of a soldier who was declared missing. “People don’t feel that kind of joy. Of course, they feel joy because of Christmas because it’s impossible not to feel the light of God in the heart. But the scale of the celebration, the nature of the celebration, has obviously changed. It’s not as joyful and full of fun as before.”

Oksana Poviakel, the director of the Pyrohiv Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine in Kyiv, where Christmas celebrations took place, said that observing the holiday on the 25th is “another important factor of self-identification.”

“We are separating ourselves from the neighbor who is currently trying to destroy our state, who is killing our people, destroying our homes, and burning our land,” she said.

Asia Landarenko, 63, said she prays every day for her son, who is currently in the military. “The state of war affects everything, including the mood. The real celebration of Christmas will be after the victory, but as the Savior was born, so will be our victory,” she said.

BY VOLODYMYR YURCHUK

Real-Life ‘Ratatouille’ Restaurant Reopens, Overlooking Paris 2024 Olympics And Reborn Notre Dame

The Tour d’Argent already boasts a 320,000-bottle wine cellar, a world-famous duck recipe and a storied 441-year history. Now, the legendary Paris restaurant is about to serve up its “plat de résistance": a front-row view of two of the biggest events of 2024 — the renaissance of Notre Dame Cathedral and the 2024 Summer Olympics.

A city landmark unto itself — and an inspiration for the restaurant in the movie “Ratatouille’’ — the Tour d’Argent recently reopened after its own renovation, which preserved revered traditions while adapting to the 21st century.

‘’It’s very reassuring for many customers to see that such establishments are still present in our history, and in French gastronomic history,’’ owner and CEO André Terrail told the Associated Press.

The restaurant claims to be the oldest in Paris, its 1582 opening date embossed on the doors. It says King Henri IV ate heron pâté here; ‘’Sun King’’ Louis XIV hosted a meal here involving an entire cow; and presidents, artists like Salvador Dalí, and celebrities including Marilyn Monroe have graced its tables in the generations since.

Today the Michelin-starred restaurant remains one of the most exclusive places to dine in the French capital, out of reach for most. The simplest fixed-price lunch menu runs to 150 euros ($167), and the most affordable fixed-price dinner is 360 euros – and that’s without even peeking at the 8-kilo (17-pound) book dubbed the ‘’bible’’ of its wine cellar.

But the reborn Tour d’Argent offers options for those who want to breathe in its rarefied atmosphere without investing in a full meal: A ground-floor lounge serving croissants in the morning, an adjacent bar serving fireside cocktails in the evening, and a rooftop bar open in the warmer months, where the restaurant’s breathtaking views are on full display.

Notre Dame Cathedral takes center stage in this Paris panorama, a construction site like no other. Artisans are mounting a new spire and roof on the monument, replacing those that collapsed in a 2019 fire that threatened to destroy the entire medieval cathedral.

Piece by piece, the scaffolding that enshrouds the site will come down over the course of 2024, in time for its planned Dec. 8 reopening to the public.

For its neighbors at the Tour d’Argent, the restoration of Notre Dame is welcome news.

“Notre Dame is a landmark and probably had lost a little bit of attention to the Eiffel Tower,” Terrail said. After the fire, Notre Dame enjoyed an injection of funding, notably from the U.S. ’’Lots of love coming from abroad, making sure that the cathedral was renovated,’' he said.

Terrail had been mulling a makeover for the Tour d’Argent too, and finally made it happen after an 18-month closure prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID in a sense accelerated things, and also the Olympic Games, which are kind of an accelerator for everything in Paris,” he says.

“We have a front-row seat on the opening ceremony of the Olympics. It’s a great privilege. It starts just there,” he says, pointing at the spot where the unprecedented opening-day extravaganza will unfold along the River Seine on July 26.

The restaurant reopened to generally positive reviews, after years in which it had been seen as resting on its laurels. Michelin says the cuisine and service were rejuvenated ‘’without taking away from its nature.’’

The Tour d’Argent – which translates as ‘’Silver Tower’’ -- has a redesigned dining room with an open kitchen, and a top-floor one-bedroom apartment that rents for nearly 9,000 euros a night.

Its signature dish remains pressed duck, cooked in its own blood and specially carved by servers in the air instead of on a board. Since 1890, the restaurant has been giving customers certificates with the number of each duck served. They’re now well past the one-million mark.

The bustling kitchen staff use locally grown products and closely held recipes, like a seductive “mystery egg” starter in truffle sauce.

“You have to cook the egg white, but not the yolk,’' explains executive chef Yannick Franques.

“People, when they come to eat, are quite surprised when they don’t know the mystery and often come to me asking how I manage to keep the yolk raw inside and the white part cooked. Unfortunately, I can’t say, I just can’t say,’' he says, smiling.

‘’The secret’s the secret. Voilà.’'

BY JEFFREY SCHAEFFER

Mexico City Has It All For The LGBTQ+ Community

Mexico City, a vibrant and diverse metropolis, welcomes travelers with rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each offering a unique flavor of the city. As visitors plan their stay, it's essential to consider not only the budget and attractions but also the inclusivity and LGBTQ+ offerings. Whether they're drawn to historic charm, stylish ambiance, or the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, Mexico City has something for everyone.

To mention a little history about Mexico City’s innovation towards this segment, in December 2009, the Legislative Assembly of the Federal District (ALDF) approved Equal Marriage, and on November 23, 2015, the local government signed a declaration in which Mexico City is recognized as a "Friendly City" with the LGBTQ+ community. Mexico City was also named a Queer Destination by the Mexico City Secretary of Tourism, Nathalie Desplas Puel.

It is a declaration to the national and international community that Mexico City is a welcoming destination; since it has demonstrated that it is a progressive city with clear progress in the recognition of the human rights of all people without distinction.

In a sprawling metropolis like Mexico City, the abundance of accommodation options can be overwhelming. Here's a breakdown of some neighborhoods to help visitors make the right choice:

1. Condesa and Roma Norte: Stylish and Affordable

For those seeking a blend of style and affordability, Condesa and Roma Norte top the list. These neighborhoods boast a plethora of dining and drinking options, along with interesting shops featuring local designers' work. The tree-lined streets and numerous small parks make them ideal for leisurely strolls day or night.

2. Centro Histórico: Immersed in History

Travelers with a penchant for Mexico City's oldest historic attractions should consider staying in the Centro Histórico, the city's historic center. While the area may quiet down after dark, its proximity to significant landmarks adds historical charm to your stay.

3. Polanco: Upscale and Chic

For a truly upscale experience, Polanco is the go-to neighborhood. Dotted with shops showcasing international designer brands and restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs, Polanco caters to those with a taste for the finer things.

4. Zona Rosa: LGBTQ+ Nightlife Hub

If proximity to vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife is a priority, travelers should consider staying in or near the Zona Rosa. This lively neighborhood comes alive after sunset, offering a vibrant array of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.

To reaffirm Mexico City as a friendly destination, for the second consecutive year, it received the LGBTQ+ Travel Awards as “Best LGBTTTIQ+ Urban Destination” from the National Union of LGBT Tourism Entrepreneurs (UNET LGBT+). The winners are selected by voters who vote on different categories to determine the winners.

Recently Mexico City was ranked in the top 8 Best Gay Cities 2023. Gay Cities showcases LGBTQ+ friendly destinations and businesses so travelers can feel secure when booking trips and exploring cities, therefore the winner cities were selected by votes of the visitors to the page, which is ranked #1 on ComScore in the LGBTQ+ Category.

For more information, please visit: mexicocity.cdmx.gob.mx

'Pints' Of Wine To Be Sold In Britain For The First Time

Pint bottles of champagne were sold in the UK before Britain joined the European Common Market, and remained on shelves until 1973. However, their production ceased because they did not comply with EU weight and measure rules.

Britons will soon be able to buy a "pint" of wine, with a new 568ml bottle set to appear on supermarket shelves and in pubs, clubs and restaurants.

Pint bottles of champagne were sold in the UK before Britain joined the European Common Market, and remained on shelves until 1973.

However, their production ceased because they did not comply with EU weight and measure rules.

Now, some 900 UK vineyards - which produce 12.2 million bottles of still or sparkling wine a year - are set to benefit from new post-Brexit "freedoms", the government has said.

The changes will also allow new quantities of both pre-packed still and sparkling wine - in bottles or cans - to be sold in 200ml and 500ml quantities alongside the new 568ml "pint" quantity.

Currently, still wine cannot be sold in 200ml quantities and sparkling wine cannot be sold in 500ml amounts.

The standard size of a bottle of wine sold in supermarkets, off-licences, pubs and bars is 750ml. Legally, pubs must sell wine in small (125ml), medium (175ml) or large (250ml) glass sizes.

There will be no legal obligation for businesses to sell the new sizes.

WineGB chief executive Nicola Bates said: "We welcome the chance to be able to harmonise still and sparkling bottle sizes and we are happy to raise a glass to the greater choice."

Kevin Hollinrake, Minister for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business, said: "Our exit from the EU was all about moments just like this, where we can seize new opportunities and provide a real boost to our great British wineries and further growing the economy."

UK rejects return to imperial system

The changes have been introduced following a government consultation on units of measurement, which was published in June last year and received more than 100,000 responses.

The consultation also considered government proposals to remove the requirement to show metric units alongside imperial or allow them to be shown in less prominence.

In 2000, the European Union weights and measures directive forced UK traders to use metric when selling packaged or loose goods such as fruit and veg. They could still use pounds and ounces but must also list grams and kilos, except for a few items.

The government's consultation was branded "complete and utter nonsense" by one supermarket boss.

And it seemed the rest of the UK agreed - the Department for Business and Trade found 98.7% of people were in favour of continuing to use metric units when buying or selling products.

In the metric system, 1,000 grams are equivalent to one kilogram, yet under the imperial system there are 14 pounds in a stone and 16 ounces in a pound. 1 imperial pound is 453.592g. As for liquids, there are 20 fluid ounces in a pint and 160 fluid ounces in a gallon, instead of metric's 1,000 millilitres in a litre.

Source: https://news.sky.com/

Amtrak Announces Impressive Train Travel Updates We Could See Over The Next Few Years

Amtrak is on a roll — literally, of course, but also figuratively. Thanks to four government grants approved by the Federal Railroad Administration, Amtrak plans to pour $2.1 billion into multiple train projects across America over the next several years. For 22.9 million annual Amtrak passengers, that spells faster trains, increased reliability, and a broader reach for service, connecting cities like never before.

To break down the numbers, in addition to other grants, about $108 million will go towards Amtrak stations and service upgrades. In the New Era of Rail, as Amtrak has dubbed it, the national rail service will modernize its fleet of trains, along with tracks, tunnels, bridges, and stations. After that, another $35 million will go towards improving 69 rail lines in 39 states. The chunk left, $2 billion, will go towards Amtrak's existing partners and potential partner projects in North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maine. The overarching goal is to enhance the customer experience and bring intercity transportation into new communities, said Stephen Gardener, the CEO of Amtrak, in a press release announcing the news.

Rail projects from east to west

On the East Coast, the biggest lump sum is earmarked for Chicago Union Station ($93 million), which will be ADA-compliant and have improved ventilation systems. Also, the train line that connects Chicago to New York City will run on daily service instead of only three times per week, offering stops in Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington DC, among other cities. Finally, there will be three additional round trips per day between the Big Apple and Washington, DC.

On the West Coast, the Sunset Limited Service from Los Angeles to New Orleans will bump up service from three times per week to daily, bringing passengers to Tucson, El Paso, San Antonio, and Houston along the way. In Texas, passengers can expect a new route between Dallas and Houston. The high-speed rail line, known as the Texas High-Speed Rail Corridor, will connect the two cities in less than 90 minutes. Whether you're a busy commuter or in the mood for a scenic long-distance train trip, Amtrak will soon have you covered.

President Biden's rail investment

While other regions around the world have embraced vast train networks, most notably countries in Europe and Asia, Americans have access to limited rail infrastructure in comparison — though perhaps not for much longer. The good news for Amtrak comes on the heels of President Biden's announcement that the administration will allocate $8 billion towards 10 projects across the country, the largest investment in train transportation since Amtrak was unveiled in 1971.

Among the projects will be Brighline's rail line from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, which will race across the Mojave Desert at 200 miles an hour to get passengers from one city to the other in just over two hours. The high-speed, all-electric train will be the first of its kind in the states, ahead of the Olympics slated for California in 2028. With several exciting projects in the works, it seems that train travel in America is finally getting the renaissance it deserves.

Source: https://www.explore.com/1472575/amtrak-announces-incredible-train-travel-expansions-updates-see-next-few-years/

Biden Administration Reveals $8.2 Billion Plan To Launch ‘World-Class‘ High-Speed Rail System: ‘Supporting Travel With Speeds Up To 220 MPH‘

“This is not just an investment in high-speed rail, it’s an investment in jobs, the climate, and our future.“

Americans may soon be clamoring for their ticket to ride after the Biden administration announced $8.2 billion in funding for passenger rail projects, including a “world-class” high-speed rail system in the United States.

“These historic projects will create tens of thousands of good-paying, union jobs, unlock economic opportunity for communities across the country, and open up safe, comfortable, and climate-friendly travel options,” the White House stated in a news release.

The California Inaugural High-Speed Rail Service Project received $3.07 billion, with a connection between Los Angeles and San Francisco “supporting travel with speeds up to 220 mph.”

The Brightline West project, which was allocated $3 billion, will run between California and Nevada and is expected to have more than 11 million passengers each year.

High-speed rail travel has received rave reviews, with China, Spain, and Indonesia among the countries investing in its infrastructure, but this project will be the first of its kind in the U.S.

While a significantly reduced commute time is exciting in itself, the high-speed rail project’s intention to use all-electric trainsets powered entirely by renewable energy, as detailed in the release, should have even more people jumping on board.

Taking any type of public transportation is already better for the environment than driving, with the average gas-powered car producing more than 10,000 pounds of carbon pollution annually, but the electric trains won’t emit any planet-warming gases

The United Nations has called for a transition away from dirty energy, such as oil, coal, and gas, “to avoid the worst impacts” of climbing global temperatures.

Dirty energy sources produce almost 90% of carbon pollution linked to rising temperatures, severe weather events, and potential food insecurity.

“This is not just an investment in high-speed rail, it’s an investment in jobs, the climate, and our future. This project is proof that America can still do — and build — big things,” former California Gov. Jerry Brown said in a statement published by the state High-Speed Rail Authority.

“This investment by the Biden Administration represents a milestone in advancing our progress and making us competitive with the 26 nations that currently have fast, clean, and safe high-speed trains,” U.S. High-Speed Rail President and CEO Andy Kunz added.

By Susan Elizabeth Turek

Ho Chi Minh City's Vibrant Festivals In 2024: A Celebration Of Culture And Tradition

Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis in Vietnam, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and lively festivals. In 2024, the city will host a series of captivating events and festivals that showcase its unique traditions and attract both domestic and international visitors.

One of the prominent festivals is the Tet Festival, scheduled for January 18 to 21, 2024. This festival celebrates the traditional Lunar New Year, known as Tet, and features community cultural activities, exhibitions, cooking demonstrations, and art shows. It serves as a platform to promote the unique cultural values of the Vietnamese people and offers visitors a chance to experience the festive ambiance of Tet.

The 10th Ho Chi Minh City Ao Dai Festival, which takes place from March 1 to 31, 2024, pays homage to the traditional costume of Vietnamese women, the Ao Dai. This festival highlights the cultural identity and beauty of the Ao Dai through cultural and spiritual activities. It has become an annual tourism and cultural product, attracting both domestic and foreign tourists to the city.

From April 4 to 7, 2024, the 20th Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Festival will take place. This event aims to stimulate tourism activities, increase revenue, and foster connections between tourism consumers and businesses. It features captivating performances and a tourism stimulation fair with numerous booths showcasing tourism and culinary delights.

In June 2024, the city will host the 2nd River Festival, promoting the long-standing river tourism product associated with the spiritual life of the Southern Vietnamese people. This festival showcases the potential of river tourism and its role in the city's future tourism industry.

The 18th Ho Chi Minh City International Tourism Expo (ITE HCMC 2024) is scheduled to take place from September 5 to 7, 2024. Recognized by five countries in the Mekong subregion, the event aims to enhance the supply and demand dynamics by fostering connections among travel and tourism businesses. ITE HCMC is the only international travel expo in Vietnam with the International Buyers Program, offering opportunities for international tourism businesses looking to expand their market, bring tourists to Vietnam, and explore the Mekong sub-region.

In December 2024, the 4th Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Week will take place. This week-long event features diverse tourism, sports, and music activities, along with promotional programs and shopping incentives. It aims to promote the city's image, cultural identity, tourism services, and culinary delights to residents and visitors alike.

Concluding the year, the 7th Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon Techcombank will be part of the Tourism Week. This marathon not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also allows participants to experience and showcase the beauty of Ho Chi Minh City's landmarks.

These festivals offer an immersive experience into the city's culture and vibrant atmosphere, providing an opportunity to create lasting memories and celebrate the unique spirit of Ho Chi Minh City.

Travelore News: DOT Puts Airline Loyalty Programs Under The Microscope After Lawmakers Raise Concerns

The Department of Transportation is investigating possible deceptive practices in airline loyalty programs after federal lawmakers raised concerns about how companies are calculating points and rewards.

A DOT spokesperson said Friday in a statement that the agency is planning “to carefully review complaints regarding loyalty programs and exercise our authority to investigate airlines for unfair and deceptive practices that hurt travelers as warranted.”

The spokesperson said agency officials are actively meeting with U.S. airlines and gathering more information about the issue.

Airlines for America, which represents the largest U.S. carriers, declined to comment.

The department is stepping up its scrutiny after two U.S. senators asked the agency and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau about the steps they’re taking to protect consumers from “deceitful marketing tactics” in frequent flyer programs.

In a letter sent to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and CFPB Director Rohit Chopra in late October, U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Roger Marshall pointed to reports that suggest airlines are changing points systems – and even devaluing points – to make it harder to achieve rewards. The letter said this can stem from unilateral contracts that allow airlines to make changes to their points programs without directly notifying consumers.

Airlines design loyalty programs to keep their most lucrative customers coming back.

In October, Southwest Airlines lowered the requirement for the top levels of its frequent-flyer program to lure in travelers dissatisfied with other airlines that are making it harder to reach elite status.

AP

Philadelphia Receives Sensory Inclusive Certification, First City In The Nation

Philadelphia is being recognized for work being done to make the city more accessible to people with sensory sensitivities and challenges.

On Tuesday, Dec. 19, the city became the first in the nation to receive the "Sensory Inclusive Certification" from KultureCity, a nonprofit organization that helps communities adapt to the needs of people with sensory-based disabilities.

According to the city, Philadelphia has the highest rate of disability among the country's large cities, at 17%. Nationwide, more than 6% of Americans experience a sensory disability.

In August 2023, the Innovation Fund awarded $50,000 to three city projects, one of which was the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities' "Sensory Inclusions Project." The initiative, in partnership with KultureCity, received more than $15,000 and provided thousands of city workers with the training to increase awareness and understanding of sensory needs, along with support elements like noise-canceling headsets and fidget items.

The training was provided to city employees in October and November of this year.

Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia

Travelore News: TSA Just Added 4 More Airlines To PreCheck Program

Fiji Airways, Lynx Air, Norse Atlantic Airways, and Starlux Airlines are the latest additions.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has added four more international airlines to its popular trusted traveler program, TSA PreCheck.

Fiji Airways, Lynx Air, Norse Atlantic Airways, and Starlux Airlines are the latest additions to the TSA PreCheck program, according to the government agency. The latter three airlines on this list are startup carriers from Canada, Europe, and Taiwan, respectively, all of which have commenced flights to the U.S. over the past couple of years.

With the addition of these four international carriers, there’s a total of 94 airlines that participate in the TSA PreCheck program — and growing. TSA PreCheck allows travelers deemed as “low risk” to enjoy expedited security screening when departing from over a list of 200 participating U.S. airports.

The agency is continuing to test new technology to make airport security a more streamlined process for travelers, especially at busy airports. Travelers with an Arizona-issued mobile ID on their Apple or Samsung Wallet can now use it for identity verification, and the TSA hopes to expand this option in the coming years.

Less than a week ago, the TSA also announced it would start trialing self-service screening in Las Vegas — initially for TSA PreCheck members Around March, eligible travelers at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas will be able to use these lanes with an automated entry and exit door.

As the TSA continues to add new airlines to the program, it’s a good idea for travelers to apply. Membership lasts for five years and costs $78 for new applicants, while the cost to renew TSA PreCheck is $70. Several popular travel credit cards even waive this application fee cost altogether.

Frequent flyers who travel internationally may want to consider the Global Entry program instead, where they can enjoy expedited customs lines when returning to the U.S. Overseen by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the application cost for this program is $100 but includes TSA PreCheck, making it a worthwhile investment for eligible travelers.

Source: By Stella Shon, https://www.travelandleisure.com/

Four Seasons Marks Highly Anticipated Return To Shanghai With New Luxury Hotel In City Centre

Four Seasons together with Fungseng Prosperity Holdings Limited have announced plans for a new hotel in Shanghai, marking a new chapter of growth for the luxury hospitality company in one of China's most important cities.

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will soar 44 storeys high with 160 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, anticipated to welcome guests in 2027. Located along the iconic Huaihai Zhong Road within the Huangpu district of Puxi, the Hotel will be at the heart of the city's shopping, dining and entertainment hub, where neighbourhoods are characterized by neoclassical villas that celebrate Shanghai's modern creativity and Art Deco heritage architecture.

"The return of Four Seasons to Shanghai will present a new luxury hospitality offering that captures the vibrant character of this world-class city," says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential, Four Seasons. "As we expand our portfolio in China, Shanghai has maintained its position as one of the most important markets for luxury travellers. With our long-term partners at Fungseng Prosperity Holdings Limited, we are pleased to bring the signature service, quality and care of Four Seasons to our brand-new experience in Shanghai very soon."

"Shanghai is a world-renowned destination where its rich history naturally complements its profile as a dynamic and modern city," says Mr. William Wai-hoi Doo, Chairman of Fungseng Prosperity Holdings Limited. "We are proud to partner with Four Seasons once again to reintroduce its presence in Shanghai for both locals and international travellers to enjoy."

About Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will include 160 rooms and suites, contemporary design throughout, architecture by Ricardo Bofill and P&T Group, as well as interior design by Jean-Michel Gathy of DENNISTON.

To offer guests an immersive local experience, Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will include thoughtfully conserved and restored traditional lane houses known as Shikumen (石库门) at the base of the development. Distinguished by high brick walls and strong gateways with elaborate lintels, the unassuming exterior of the Shikumen reveals beautiful, traditional Chinese dwellings on the interior. A respite from the energy and allure that permeates Shanghai, the new Four Seasons Hotel will capture the essence of this historic, residential-style architecture through locally sourced material, verdant courtyards with native greenery and much more.

Adding to the growing collection of more than 600 unique restaurants and bars across the company's global portfolio, Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will introduce five new original culinary concepts. From the Hotel's signature Shanghai seafood restaurant featuring the contemporary flair and traditional character of the destination to a vibrant Italian trattoria with open kitchens and all-day service for patrons and their discerning palates, Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai is well-positioned to complement the city's dynamic culinary scene. Further enhanced by the Hotel's inviting lobby bar, open-air Chinese tea lounge and patisserie, each outlet will naturally welcome guests into the ever-evolving world of Four Seasons.

The 670 square metres (7,212 square feet) of meeting and event space alongside the 690 square metres (7,438 square feet) of comprehensive wellness facilities at Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will introduce both unmatched quality and genuine care at every touchpoint. With a commitment to excellence throughout – from the Hotel's well-appointed gym and spa to its resort-style outdoor heated pool – leisure and business travellers together with city locals will enjoy a new experience in Shanghai with a brand they know and trust, building on more than 60 years of Four Seasons leading the luxury hospitality industry worldwide.

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will be joining a growing collection of properties throughout China including the recently opened Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou and the upcoming Four Seasons Hotel Dalian, Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at Hangzhou Centre, and Four Seasons Hotel Xi'an.

About Four Seasons

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts opened its first hotel in 1961, and since that time has been dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. Currently operating 128 hotels and resorts, and 53 residential properties in major city centres and resort destinations in 47 countries, and with more than 50 projects under planning or development, Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world's best hotels and most prestigious brands in reader polls, traveller reviews and industry awards. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com.

Jalisco Anticipates New Airport, Updates And Flight Routes In 2024

Ending its bicentennial year on a high note,Jalisco, Mexico, experienced a significant 10.7% rise in airport arrivals, welcoming a total of 10 million passengers through October. The surge highlights the Pacific coast state's burgeoning appeal, driven by its stunning landscapes that encompass all five of the country's natural ecosystems, and a reputation for hosting world-class events. The upswing in tourism is, in part, a result of collaborative initiatives between Jalisco's Ministry of Tourism—recently honored with theTravel Weekly Magellan Awards' Gold Award in Destination Marketing for positioning the state as a Leading LGBTQ+ Tourism Destination—and a variety of airlines.

Picture of Puerto Vallarta by Allen Barkus

This increase in visitors to the state is spurring greater connectivity and accessibility. The anticipated introduction of an international airport in Costalegre, coupled with the environmentally conscious expansion of Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) achieving net-zero carbon emissions in a new terminal – a first in Latin America, and the addition of new flight routes from Canada and the United States to Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) make exploring all that Jalisco has to offer easier than ever in 2024.

Mexico's 'Happy Coast' Increases Accessibility As Visionary Xala Opens

The alluring coastline of the Costalegre region, famously dubbed Mexico's "Happy Coast," has become a hotspot for the jet-set drawn to its 238--mile stretch of unspoiled beaches, enchanting capes and bays, and luxury resorts. Situated south of Puerto Vallarta, where the jungle meets the beach, the region is currently accessible through commercial flights to PVR typically requiring several hours of driving post flight to reach key resorts and hotels. Anticipated to open in late 2024, the upcoming Chalacatepec International Airport will offer direct access to this sought-after destination. The aim is to keep operations modest, ensuring swift customs clearance for arriving passengers, allowing them to unwind on the serene beaches in no time. The airport will play a pivotal role in meeting the growing demand for the area, complemented by the launch of the highly awaitedXala. This visionary $1 billion development, spanning 3,000 acres, is set to become one of Mexico's premier destinations. The ambitious project encompasses luxury hotels, estate-style vacation homes, and a lavish 51-villaSix Senses hotel, scheduled to open its doors in 2026.

Puerto Vallarta International Airport to Introduce Latin America's First NetZero Terminal

In a groundbreaking move to preserve the natural allure that draws a record number of visitors,Puerto Vallarta International Airport is set to unveil its new terminal in December 2024, marking a significant milestone as the first Net Zero-certified terminal in Latin America. Recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, the two-story structure, boasting Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) project certification, significantly reduces the building footprint by 50% while also preserving 50% of the area's existing ancient trees with cathedral roots. Beyond its green credentials, Terminal 2 features a third "floor" at its core, dedicated to generating cold water, transforming energy, and efficiently managing luggage logistics. The terminal is fully accessible, ensuring a welcoming environment for all travelers, including those with disabilities. The enhanced passenger experience includes a spacious restaurant, VIP area, fast-food outlets, and a dining area. The terminal also introduces a substantial improvement in security filters, increasing capacity by 125%, and doubling the checked baggage inspection points. A feature not found at any other Mexican airport, outdoor terraces will provide passengers with an opportunity to wait for their flights al fresco.

Flair, Aeromexico Introduce New Routes from the United States and Canada

Flair and Aeromexico are set to enhance travel options to and from Guadalajara with the introduction of new routes from the United States and Canada. Beginning May 31, 2024, Canadian low-cost carrierFlair will revive a route last operated in 2004, providing direct service between Vancouver (YVR) and GDL. This service will run twice a week, offering competitive fares starting at USD$129. Following JetBlue's successful launch of a new Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta route earlier this summer,Aeromexico, in a joint venture withDelta Air Lines, is expanding its presence in the United States. This significant development includes the introduction of two new routes connecting Jalisco's capital city with the Delta hubs of Atlanta (ATL) and Detroit (DTW). This expansion not only strengthens air connectivity between Jalisco and key U.S. destinations but also marks a substantial step towards providing passengers with increased travel options and convenience.

For more information on Jalisco, visithttps://visitjalisco.com.mx.

Travelore News: Iceland Volcano Lava Missing Town For Now, Flight Impact Unlikely

Lava spewing from a volcano in Iceland appeared to be flowing away from the only nearby town and the intensity of the eruption was dropping, offering hope that homes would be safe even though seismic activity could last months, officials said on Tuesday.

The government said flights were unlikely to be affected, quashing international travel concerns lingering after chaos that resulted from the ash cloud caused by an eruption on the north Atlantic island in 2010.

The eruption late on Monday on the Reykjanes peninsula in southwest Iceland spewed lava and smoke more than 100 metres (330 feet) into the air after weeks of intense seismic activity.

"The eruption does not present a threat to life," a government statement said. "There are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland and international flight corridors remain open."

Authorities last month evacuated the nearly 4,000 inhabitants of the fishing town of Grindavik about 40 km (25 miles) southwest of capital city Reykjavik, allowing them back intermittently to check on homes put at risk by the tremors.

Volcano erupts in Iceland

A volcano erupted late on Monday in southwest Iceland, spewing lava and smoke through a 4 km fissure, after weeks of intense earthquake activity. The volcano is about 30 km southwest of Iceland's capital Reykjavik.

Earthquakes by magnitude

24 hours ending Dec. 19, 6:20 GMT

Kristin Maria Birgisdottir, 43, a Grindavik resident who has been evacuated since Nov. 10, at first had a hard time believing it when the volcano erupted.

"Everything happened so fast," said Birgisdottir. "I had already put my kids to sleep, and I was already in bed when I saw someone posted that it had erupted. I took a screenshot, and thought to myself that it was a bad joke."

"We are just waiting for somebody to wake us up or to say cut, the filming is over, because it's so unreal. It's hard to believe this is happening," she later added.

Live footage of the eruption showed bright yellow, orange and red lava in sharp contrast against the sky.

Some tourists were in awe at the spectacle. "Our BnB hosts sent us a message that the volcano has erupted," a tourist from the Netherlands who gave his name as Wouter said. "It's a once in a lifetime for us so we don't want to miss that ... It's a bit far from here, but you can still see some lava coming up, for us this is amazing."

The eruption opened a 4 km (2.5 mile) fissure. But at its southernmost point, the crack was still 3 km away from Grindavik, Iceland's Meteorological Office said, and the power of the volcano was decreasing.

"The eruption is taking place north of the watershed, so lava does not flow towards Grindavik," geologist Bjorn Oddson told public broadcaster RUV.

Gas pollution could still occur in the area of Reykjavik late on Tuesday or Wednesday morning, officials said.

Located between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, among the largest on the planet, Iceland is a seismic hot spot because the plates move in opposite directions.

The eruption is about 30 km from Reykjavik. Keflavik international airport is somewhat nearer but remains open. The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa popular with tourists, has been largely closed since the seismic activity was detected.

"It could potentially go on for several months. It could also just stop later today or tomorrow," said Halldor Geirson, an associate professor at Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Iceland.

Lava flows had decreased from 200-250 cubic meters per second in the first two hours of the eruption to around a quarter of that by Tuesday morning.

Most of the lava was flowing into an area where there was little infrastructure, Geirson said. That could change.

"There is still a threat to Grindavik, for sure. Now the lava is flowing mostly to the north, but it depends on the topography and where the openings are," he said.

In 2010, ash clouds from eruptions at the Eyafjallajokull volcano in the south of Iceland spread over large parts of Europe, grounding some 100,000 flights in Europe and beyond, and forcing hundreds of Icelanders to evacuate their homes.

Weather forecasting service AccuWeather said this eruption was very different.

"If little to no volcanic ash is lofted into the atmosphere, there may be no impact to aviation," AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter said.

The 2010 impact on air travel was largely caused by the interaction of magma with the melting water from a glacier, a different scenario to what is happening now.

Matthew Watson, professor of volcanoes and climate at the University of Bristol in Britain, said it was "not impossible that there may be some impact on air travel", although it was unlikely. "This type of eruption doesn't generally produce much ash, which is what tends to ground planes."

CHRISTMAS AWAY FROM HOME

"Unfortunately, the hope that had ignited in the hearts of many about the possibility of celebrating Christmas at home in Grindavik was extinguished when the eruption began yesterday," Grindavik Mayor Fannar Jonasson said in a statement addressing residents.

Hans Vera, 56, originally from Belgium but living in a house just east of Grindavik since 1999, had hoped residents would be allowed to return for good, or as long as is possible on a volcanic island. That all changed when the eruption finally arrived.

"I don't see that in the near future they will let people get close to Grindavik. So we are back in the waiting game," he said.

He described his home near the sea as a winter paradise, and said the prospect of not being able to spend the Christmas holidays there with his family came as a blow.

"We are not going to paradise this time around."

Reporting by Tom Little, Louise Rasmussen in Copenhagen, Anna Ringstrom in Stockholm and Terje Solsvik in Oslo; additional reporting by Antoine Demaison for Reuters TV; Writing by Niklas Pollard, Terje Solsvik and Johannes Birkebaek; Editing by David Goodman, Alison Williams and Bill Berkrot: Reuters Weather forecasting service AccuWeather said this eruption was very different.

Lufthansa Group Airlines To Resume Flights To Tel Aviv

From January 8, 2024, the airlines of the Lufthansa Group plan to resume their flights to Tel Aviv. In a first phase, Lufthansa Airlines will initially offer four weekly flights from Frankfurt and three weekly flights from Munich. Austrian Airlines is planning eight weekly connections and SWISS five weekly flights. In a first step, the Lufthansa Group airlines will thus offer a total of 20 weekly connections to and from Tel Aviv. This corresponds to around 30 percent of the regular flight schedule. Aircraft from the Airbus A320 family will be used.

This flight schedule offers good transfer connections from Israel to North America and back via the hubs in Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna and Zurich.

The flight schedule will be published on Monday, December 18. Flights can be booked from this date.

Safety is always a top priority for the airlines in the Lufthansa Group. The Lufthansa Group continues to monitor the security situation in Israel closely and is in close contact with the local and international authorities. Possible flight schedule adjustments must be expected due to changing conditions.

Lufthansa Group Airlines suspended its scheduled flights to and from Tel Aviv on October 9, 2023.

The flights to Beirut (Lebanon), which have also been suspended, were resumed today, December 15, by Lufthansa, SWISS and Eurowings.

Spanish Police Arrest 14 Airport Workers After Items Go Missing From Checked-In Luggage

Fourteen workers at one of Spain’s main airports for tourists were arrested on suspicion of stealing items from checked-in luggage, police said Friday.

Police seized allegedly stolen items worth almost 2 million euros ($2.2 million), including around 13,000 euros ($14,000) in cash, from the group of employees at the largest airport in Tenerife, in Spain’s Canary Islands, a statement said. Another 20 airport employees are under investigation in the same case.

The Tenerife South airport handles about 11 million passengers a year, most of them European tourists seeking the pleasant climate of the islands off the coast of northwest Africa.

The investigation began after an increase in passenger complaints about items missing from their luggage, the police statement said.

The thefts occurred as baggage was being placed in the aircrafts’ hold, police said. Inside the hold, the alleged thieves forced open suitcases, took out valuables and shut them again.

Authorities seized 29 luxury wristwatches, 120 items of jewelry, 22 high-end cellphones and assorted electronic devices. The suspects had sold many other items online or in local stores, police believe.

AP

Tallest Hotel In Las Vegas Finally Opens After Sitting Empty For More Than A Decade

The 67-story hotel-casino tower Fontainebleau has opened to the public after more than a decade of sitting unfinished following the Recession, making it the tallest occupied building in Nevada.

The tallest hotel in Las Vegas is finally ready to swing open its doors after 10 years of building.

The 67-story hotel-casino tower Fontainebleau had became famous for sitting unfinished on the famous strip for more than a decade. Now it is finally open to the public it is the tallest, newest and bluest hotel in southern Nevada’s glittery resort corridor. At $3.7 billion, it’s second in cost to the $4.3 billion, 66-story Resorts World that opened in June 2021 a short walk down Las Vegas Boulevard.

The name of the 3,644-room Fontainebleau recalls Miami Beach’s icon among destination resorts, which owner Jeffrey Soffer’s family acquired in 2005. But the project in the Mojave Desert has its own lore about starts, stops and changing ownership since work began in 2007.

“Bringing Fontainebleau Las Vegas to life has been an extraordinary journey. Opening a resort of this size and scope is a once-in-a-lifetime experience., said Soffer, who started the project, lost it and reacquired it to finish it.

The Miami-based chairman of Fontainebleau Development lost funding for the project during the Recession, leading him to walk away from the project in 2009. At that point the building was about 70% complete. Other plans were tabled about ten years later to finish the project, but they never came about. Occasionally fire fighters would use the large empty shell of a building for high-rise rescue training.

Now that it is finally done, the hotel will fit into Las Vegas's gambling scene thanks to its 1,300 slot machines, 128 gambling tables and more than 36 bars and restaurants - some featuring chefs with Miami roots. Mark Tricano, Fontainebleau Las Vegas president, has said that the resort will employ more than 7,000 workers.

By Milo Boyd

To Sir With Love: Distinguished Concerts International Kicks Off 2024 Season With 80th Birthday Celebration For Sir Karl Jenkins At Carnegie Hall

On Monday, January 15, 2024, Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY) will present The Best of Sir Karl Jenkins, DCINY’s 2024 season kick-off performance celebrating the renowned Welsh composer’s 80th Birthday. The concert will be conducted by DCINY’s own Artistic Director, Dr. Jonathan Griffith, and will feature singers from around the world for a once-in-a-lifetime performance opportunity. The monumental event will bring this new collection of Sir Karl’s most beloved pieces to life on stage in the Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall. Longtime WQXR host, Jeff Spurgeon, will serve as emcee.

Sir Karl Jenkins is DCINY’s original, and longest-performing composer-in-residence. “We are proud to be kicking off next year’s season celebrating his 80th year,” says DCINY Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Jonathan Griffith, who co-founded the company with General Director Iris Derke. “Jenkins is one of the most frequently performed composers in the world, and this concert will be his 17th performance with us. I am particularly honored to conduct his work for this event.”

One act will feature works from ‘Songs of Sanctuary’ (Adiemus, Kayama, Hymn), ‘Requiem” (Dies Irae) and ‘Stabat Mater ‘And the Mother Did Weep, Virgo Virginum, Ave Verum, Paradisi Gloria), and a second act will feature The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace. Now nearly 25 years old, this popular composition is one of Sir Karl’s–and the world’s–most performed compositions.

DCINY conducted extensive auditions for singing and choral groups for Sir Jenkins’ milestone concert celebration, welcoming inquiries from schools and communities around the world. Several of the selected groups have participated in Sir Jenkins’ concerts over the past 15 years, including: VOENA (Annabelle Marie, Director; CA); Pennsbury High School (James Moyer, Director; PA); Chor Capriccio; and Birgit Ensminger-Busse, Director; Germany).

Along with Chor Capriccio, performers for The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace include: KlangKunst Chor Iffeldorf (Andrea Fessmann, Director, Germany); Grand Union Community Choir (Susan Jane Cox, Director; UK); The Village Singers (Rachel McCorry, Director; UK); Meininger Kantorei (The Meiningen Lutheran Church Choir) (Sebastian Fuhrmann, Director; Germany); Hochschulchor Sankt Georgen, Frankfurt/Collegium Vocale Bad Homburg (Dr. Helmut Föller, Director; Germany); Singgemeinschaft Salzkotten e.V. (Thomas Rimpel, Director; Germany); Karl-Rehbein School Choir (Frank Hagelstange, Director; Germany); and Johannes Brahms Chor Hamburg (Kazuo Kanemaki, Director; Germany).

Joining VOENA and Pennsbury Choirs in other acts throughout the evening will be: Lutherkantorei Bad Harzburg (Karsten Krüger, Director; Germany); The Lorilee Singers (Lorilee Bajema, Director; CA); Sheppard Academy of Vocal Arts (Bettina Sheppard, Director; NY); and Mosaïque Musicale Malouine (Isabelle Ginet Besnard, Director; France).

Sir Karl Jenkins has famously and comically received global media attention after he was suspected of being Meghan Markle in disguise at the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, which he attended to witness the crowning and hear the coronation orchestra perform his original work, Tros y Garreg. “It was a piece I was commissioned to compose almost two decades ago, when the King was the Prince of Wales” Jenkins said. He was recently included in the New York Times list: Styles’s 71 Most Stylish People in 2023.

As part of the celebratory event, DCINY will be presenting the DCINY Educator Laureate award to James Moyer, who is a Director and serves as a Program Consultant for the organization. The DCINY Educator Laureate Award acknowledges an individual’s contribution to music education. It recognizes a personal commitment to instilling a life-long love of making music. A native of Easton, Pennsylvania, Mr. Moyer is a veteran teacher of 37 years and is in his 25th year as Director of Choral Activities at Pennsbury High School. Choirs under Mr. Moyer’s direction have performed throughout the United States and across Europe. Past recipients of the award are Dr. Donald D. Donaldson, professor emeritus of Asbury College and former choral director at Shawnee Mission South High School and chair of the music department at Kansas Wesleyan University, and Dr. Eph Ehly, formerly the Director of Choral Studies at the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

For more information on DCINY’s unforgettable 2024 season opener with Sir Karl Jenkins, please visit: https://dciny.getfeedback.com/r/GtGspzuU/

Southwest Airlines Praised For ‘Customers Of Size’ Policy That Allows Overweight Flyers To Purchase One Seat And Get Another Complimentary

Plus-size TikTokkers are praising Southwest Airlines for its “customer of size” policy, which allows overweight passengers to request a complimentary seat and forces the flight staff to accommodate larger flyers — even if that means kicking others with tickets off of the flight.

“If you’re fat, you know the anxiety of flying and this alleviates it a lot,” Caroline, a travel influencer who said she is a size 20, told her nearly 200,000 followers in a video posted at the end of October.

“I had a very comfortable flight just feeling like I was allowed to take up the space I needed.”

Under the Texas-based airline’s policy, customers whose bodies “encroach” past the armrest are entitled to an extra seat at no additional cost.

It says that passengers “have the option of purchasing just one seat and then discussing your seating needs with the Customer Service Agent at the departure gate.

“If it’s determined that a second (or third) seat is needed you’ll be accommodated with a complimentary additional seat,” the policy states.

The flight team will then look at the seating arrangements — which are not predetermined on Southwest flights — and would potentially move other passengers around for the “unplanned accommodation.”

Southwest, though, suggests customers purchase the extra seats in advance and then contact the airline “for a refund of the cost of additional seating after travel.

“Customers who encroach upon any part of the neighboring seat(s) may proactively purchase the needed number of seats prior to travel to ensure the additional seat(s) is available,” the policy says.

“The purchase of additional seats serves as a notification of a special seating need and allows us to adequately plan for the number of occupied seats on board. It also helps us ensure we can accommodate all customers on the flight for which they purchased a ticket and avoid asking customers to relinquish their seats for unplanned accommodation.

Plus-sized travel expert Jae’lynn Chaney said the policy is an important step to include more people in the “super fat” category. Jae'lynn Chaney

“Most importantly, it ensures that all our customers on board have access to safe and comfortable seating,” it continues.

“You may contact us for a refund of the cost of additional seating after travel.”

Self-described “fat solo traveler” Kimmy showed her followers how to use the program in a video that went viral in October.

She simply went up to the airline booth and said, “Hello, I’m hoping to use your customer of size policy today.”

“Southwest is the only airline that allows you a second seat at no extra cost even if the flight is fully booked,” she captioned the video.

“I’ve done this a dozen times, and never had an issue or been denied,” she said, adding that under the policy she is allowed to “preboard” ahead of other passengers.

“Enter the aircraft, get your seatbelt extender, and grab your seat!”

“I place the ticket in the seat next to me,” she continued. “If anyone tries to sit in it, I kindly let them know I have two seats booked.

“To be honest, I almost never get approached because no one wants to sit in the middle seat next to a fat person on a plane.”

Kimmy concluded by saying she “applauds” the airline for making air travel “more comfortable and accessible for all people, including fat and disabled people.”

Plus-sized travel expert Jae’lynn Chaney — who once demanded the Federal Aviation Administration better accommodate larger passengers — also said it was an important move to include people in the “super fat” category.

“Super fat is how we identify,” she told Fox Business, explaining: “There’s a spectrum of fatness. And as a ‘super fat’ individual you start needing different accommodations.

“I just feel really happy that there was something like this for people,” Chaney added. “I hope to see more airlines implement ‘customer-of-size’ policies.

“The Southwest customer size policy helps many travelers offset the disproportionate costs that we incur because of needing extra room,” she said.

“And so, it’s not just about physical accessibility. It’s also about financial accessibility.”

But at least one person has voiced their opposition to the policy, sharing that she, her teenage daughter, and her friend were kicked off of a flight in June.

The mother said in her own TikTok video that she and the two teens were on their way home from Montego Bay, Jamaica, and had a layover in Baltimore, Maryland, before they could return home to Denver, Colorado.

But during their layover, Southwest Airlines officials informed her that the flight was “overbooked” and they could not board the plane — despite spending $620.72 on tickets.

“Please help me understand why do I have to spend the night without any accommodations in Baltimore because an oversized person didn’t purchase a second ticket,” the exasperated mother said, claiming all of her and the teenagers’ luggage was sent to their final destination in Denver.

Southwest’s policy offers those who purchase an additional ticket a refund, or passengers could get a complimentary ticket at the gate. AP

By Melissa Koenig

Travelore's Holiday Gift Recommendations For Comfort & Personal Health

PhoneSoap 3

The Original UVC Phone Sanitizer & Charger | PhoneSoap 3
PhoneSoap 3 kills 99.9% of the bacteria and viruses1 that thrive on your phone and other small gear. With USB and USBC charging ports it also acts as a universal charger. Backed by 10 years in UV technology, PhoneSoap 3 is a bestseller for good reason. Now only $39.95, 50% off at: https://www.phonesoap.com/

Mozy | Wearable & Weatherproof Outdoor Thermal Wrap is the ideal gift for anyone who enjoys outdoor winter activities.

Weatherproof, durable, and lightweight

Sleek Jacquard patterned Nylon

210D Nylon exterior

Cozy fleece interior

Easy on/off with adjustable hook and loop closure

fast, fully adjustable warmth

Best for 20℉ - 70℉ climates

Customize with removable velcro patches

Two large pockets for beverages, hats, gloves, and cell phones

Carabiner to secure valuables/keys

Carry strap for easy transport

To learn more and purchase, please visit: https://getthemozy.com/

Broadway Furious Over New $15 Congestion Toll To Come Into New York City, Says Theater ‘Could Be Doing Better’

Suburbanites have been the slowest to return to the theaters and the new fee cold be another reason for them to stay away.

The head of a group that represents New York City’s Broadway theater district claims that a massive new toll in Manhattan could be devastating for theaters.

A $15 congestion pricing fee is set to go into effect next Spring below 60th St. in Midtown.

Cristyne Nicholas, CEO of Nicholas & Lence Communications, says the toll will hurt theaters that are still trying to recover from the pandemic.

“Now everything is a little bit shaky, we’re not quite back yet, and this is just another impediment for people to come into the city,” Nicholas said on WABC Radio’s Cats Roundtable. “Especially the bridge and tunnel people who are so important to the Broadway theatres.”

She says 30 percent of the people who make up the Broadway audience are in the suburbs. People in New Jersey already pay a toll to get into Manhattan and now face another fee.

Those people were already the slowest to come back to theaters after COVID.

Nicholas cited remote working and crime issues as reasons attendance is down. She says congestion pricing will just create one more reason for people to stay away.

“It could be doing better and I don't think congestion pricing is going to help it,” she added.

The plan was sold several years ago as a quality-of-life win for people in the city with fewer cars bringing cleaner air, safer streets and better mass transit. The tolls are expected to raid $15 billion for public transportation projects.

But Nicholas claims the toll is more about fixing a budget hole than improving the quality of life in New York City.

“This is not the same city it was 5 years ago. The city then was booming. The city was doing great. It was pre-COVID,” Nicholas said.

She suggests putting a small toll on every bridge into the island of Manhattan to raise money instead of adding a huge tax on streets leading into Midtown Manhattan.

Congestion pricing already faces a federal lawsuit by New Jersey. Gov. Phil Murphy calls it a double tax on commuters.

https://themessenger.com/author/luke-funk

Australia Plans To Halve Migrant Intake, Tighten Student Visa Rules

Australia on Monday said it would tighten visa rules for international students and low-skilled workers that could halve its migrant intake over the next two years as the government looks to overhaul what it said was a "broken" migration system.

Under the new policies, international students would need to secure higher ratings on English tests and there would be more scrutiny on a student's second visa application that would prolong their stay.

"Our strategy will bring migration numbers back to normal," Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said during a media briefing.

"But it's not just about numbers. It's not just about this moment and the experience of migration our country is having at this time. This is about Australia's future."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over the weekend said Australia's migration numbers needed to be wound back to a "sustainable level," adding that "the system is broken."

O'Neil said the government's targeted reforms were already putting downward pressure on net overseas migration and will further contribute to an expected decline in migrant numbers.

The decision comes after net immigration was expected to have peaked at a record 510,000 in 2022-23. Official data showed it was forecast to fall to about a quarter of a million in 2024-25 and 2025-26, roughly in line with pre-COVID levels.

O'Neil said the increase in net overseas migration in 2022-23 was mostly driven by international students.

Shares of IDP Education (IEL.AX), which provides placement and education services to international students, were down more than 3% in afternoon trade.

Australia boosted its annual migration numbers last year to help businesses recruit staff to fill shortages after the COVID-19 pandemic brought strict border controls, and kept foreign students and workers out for nearly two years.

But the sudden influx of foreign workers and students has exacerbated pressure on an already tight rental market, with homelessness on the rise in the country.

A survey done for the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper on Monday said 62% of Australian voters said the country's migration intake was too high.

Long reliant on immigration to supply what is now one of the tightest labour markets in the world, Australia's Labor government has pushed to speed up the entry of highly skilled workers and smooth their path to permanent residency.

A new specialist visa for highly skilled workers will be set up with the processing time set at one week, helping businesses recruit top migrants amid tough competition with other developed economies.

Reporting by Renju Jose in Sydney; Editing by Mark Porter and Michael Perry, Reuters

Philadelphia's Mummers Parade Named Nation's Best Holiday Parade In USA Today Poll

The votes are in the and the people have spoken.

The Mummers Parade has been named best holiday parade in the country in a USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice poll.

Philadelphia's Mummers Parade, which dates back over a century, beat out other well-known annual holiday events such as New York's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Chicago's Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.

The annual New Year's Day strut down Broad Street is a colorful procession with performances by comics, string bands and fancy brigades all decked out in their spectacular, eye-dazzling costumes.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/events/the-mummers-parade/

Travelore News: Flight Attendants At Southwest Airlines Reject A Contract Their Union Negotiated With The Airline

Southwest Airlines flight attendants have voted down a contract offer reached by negotiators for the airline and the union.

The Transport Workers Union Local 556 said Friday that the proposal was voted down 64% to 36%.

The local’s president, Lyn Montgomery, said the vote followed five years of negotiations during which the flight crews have not received pay raises.

“We will go back to the table to achieve the collective bargaining agreement that meets the needs of the hardest-working flight attendants in the industry,” she said in a statement.

Montgomery had previously said the offer would have given Southwest flight attendants industry-leading pay, 16% above crews at Delta Air Lines, who are non-union.

Dallas-based Southwest said, “We are disappointed the industry-leading agreement reached between the negotiating committees was not ratified.” The airline said it would wait to hear about next steps from the union and the National Mediation Board, which has been involved in the negotiations.

Southwest is also negotiating with pilots, who have twice asked federal mediators for permission to begin a 30-day countdown to a strike, but have been rejected both times.

Flight attendants at American Airlines and United Airlines, who are represented by different unions than the one at Southwest, are also in talks over new contracts.

Airline workers have said they kept working through the pandemic and deserve higher pay now that most of the carriers have returned to profitability. Pilots at American, United and Delta have won raises of roughly 40% over five years.
AP.

This Proposed 311 MPH Train Will Speed Up Northeastern Corridor Travel

Faster than a bullet train, the proposed Northeast Maglev train would allow travel through the Northeastern Corridor in record time, making it the world's fastest train.

Forget the plane, take the Maglev train! Indeed, the travel industry is one of the top global industries dependent upon transportation to thrive. The way we travel is steadily advancing thanks in part to progressive technology. Imagine traveling from major destinations such as Washington D.C. to New York City in just one hour. With the proposal of the Northeast Maglev, now you can.

What Is The Northeast Maglev?

The Northeast Maglev is a proposed train project committed to providing a travel solution to one of the most congested corridors in the United States. It would completely revolutionize the way people work and live by connecting cities across America’s Northeast Corridor.

How Fast Would The Northeast Maglev Train Be?

Pretty fast!

It holds the Guinness record for world’s fastest ground transportation system, with the capability to connect cities in record time traveling speeds upward 311 mph!

The increased speeds would be made possible through the Maglev’s magnetic levitation transportation system. Referred to as the Superconducting Maglev (SCMAGLEV), this magnetic levitation transportation system uses magnetic attractions and coils between the track and cars.

Interestingly, the word maglev is actually a portmanteau, blending together the words “magnetic” and “levitation”.

What Cities Would It Connect?

The project would include two phases. Once fully completed, the Northeast Maglev would travel between cities including New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C.

However, there’s even a proposed trans-national maglev known as The Greater Northeast Corridor. This fantasy loop would connect destinations such as Philly, NYC, Boston, Montreal, Toronto, and Detroit. For now, this remains only a proposal but with technology always advancing, one can dream.

Would The Maglev Be Safe To Travel?

Yes. Through the use of its magnetic levitation system, derailment is not possible. The maglev has over 50 years of development behind it. Since development first began in 1962, over 1.7 million miles have been traveled.

The Completed Maglev Train:

In fact, the first commercially operational maglev train opened in Birmingham, England in 1984. Additionally, over 287,00 peopled have ridden the Maglev.

Phase I of the project is currently undergoing an environmental impact study. Phase I would connect Washington D.C. and Baltimore with a station at BWI Airport. However, Phase I is expected to be completed by 2025. Next, Phase II train route would succeed to connect D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, Wilmington, and New York. At this time, Boston is still idea for expansion. Conclusively, you can find out more about this project and stay up to date on its development by visiting their website at: https://northeastmaglev.com/

Source: https://secretphiladelphia.co/author/erryn-howard/