Travelore Rewards: Switch Loyalty To Delta With The SkyMiles Medallion Status Match Challenge

As one of the most valuable elite status programs in the U.S., Medallion Status is designed to reward Members more than ever, and Delta’s Medallion Status Match program gives travelers with loyalty to another airline the opportunity to switch their elite status to Delta – for free.

The Medallion Status Match Challenge is a program designed to give you the opportunity to switch your airline loyalty to Delta. If you currently have elite status with another airline, we will give you the equivalent Medallion Status for 90 days — complimentary. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to extend your complimentary status past 90 days if you successfully complete the challenge.

With SkyMiles:

Your miles don’t expire and can take you to 1,000+ destinations around the world.

You can use your miles to travel on any Delta Air Lines flight with no blackout dates.

Watch your miles add up faster when you dine, shop, book a stay, rent cars, request rides and more with your Delta SkyMiles® American Express Card.

And as a Medallion Member, you’ll receive industry–leading benefits such as:

Unlimited Complimentary Upgrades for you and a travel companion, Waived Baggage Fees, Priority Boarding, Preferred Seats

A Choice Benefit* Selection — for Platinum Medallion Members*

*Enjoy a more seamless experience by selecting your Choice Benefits through the Fly Delta app.

**Members receiving complimentary Platinum Medallion Status pursuant to a Status Match will only be eligible for their Choice Benefit selection once they have successfully met the requirements to extend to a full year or more of Platinum Medallion Status pursuant to the terms of their challenge.

For more details and how to sign-up, please visit: https://www.delta.com/contact-us/planning-reservation-statusmatch

US Expected A Big Travel Year, But Overseas Visitors — Angered By Trump — Are Heading Elsewhere

Olja Ivanic looked forward to welcoming some cousins from Sweden to her Denver home in June. Ivanic and the four travelers were planning to go hiking in Colorado and then visit Los Angeles and San Francisco.

But then President Donald Trump berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a February meeting at the White House. Ivanic’s four relatives immediately canceled their scheduled trip and decided to vacation in Europe instead.

“The way (Trump) treated a democratic president that’s in a war was beyond comprehensible to them,” said Ivanic, who is the U.S. CEO of Austria-based health startup Longevity Labs.

The U.S. tourism industry expected 2025 to be another good year in terms of foreign travelers. The number of international visitors to the United States jumped in 2024, and some forecasts predicted arrivals from abroad this year would reach pre-COVID levels.

But three months into the year, international arrivals are plummeting. Angered by Trumps’ tariffs and rhetoric, and alarmed by reports of tourists being arrested at the border, some citizens of other countries are staying away from the U.S. and choosing to travel elsewhere.

The federal government’s National Travel and Tourism Office released preliminary figures Tuesday showing visits to the U.S. from overseas fell 11.6% in March compared to the same month last year. The figures did not include arrivals from Canada, which is scheduled to report tourism data later this week, or land crossings from Mexico. But air travel from Mexico dropped 23%.

For the January-March period, 7.1 million visitors entered the U.S. from overseas, 3.3% fewer than during the first three months of 2024.

The travel forecasting company Tourism Economics, which as recently as December anticipated the U.S. would have nearly 9% more international arrivals this year, revised its annual outlook last week to predict a 9.4% decline.

Tourism Economics expects some of the steepest declines will be from Canada, where Trump’s repeated suggestion that the country should become the 51st state and tariffs on close trading partners have angered residents. Canada was the largest source of visitors to the U.S. in 2024, with more than 20.2 million, according to U.S. government data.

Flight Centre Travel Group Canada, a travel booking site, said leisure bookings to U.S. destinations were down 40% in March compared to the same month a year ago. Air Canada has reduced its schedule of spring flights to Florida, Las Vegas and Arizona due to lack of demand.

The National Travel and Tourism Office gave a rosier forecast last month for international travel to the U.S. Based on 2024 travel patterns, the office said it expected arrivals to increase 6.5% to 77.1 million this year and surpass 2019 levels in 2026.

But Tourism Economics said the impact of the less favorable view of the U.S. from abroad could be severe enough that international visits won’t surpass pre-pandemic levels until 2029.

“The survey data is all indicating a significant mix of cancellations and a massive drop in intent to travel,” Tourism Economics President Adam Sacks said.

Ian Urquhart, a professor emeritus at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada, was supposed to go to Las Vegas for five days in June and see Coldplay in concert. He canceled the trip to protest Trump’s “incredibly disparaging tone” toward Canada even though it meant losing a $500 deposit on the vacation package.

His oldest daughter similarly nixed a planned May trip to Sedona, Arizona, while his brother-in-law decided not to go on his usual weeklong golf trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, according to Urquhart.

“None of us jumped for joy when we made those decisions, but it seemed to be one of the few ways we could signal how we felt about the bullying that has been directed towards Canada by your president,” Urquhart said.

For Pepa Cuevas and her husband, who live in Madrid, Trump’s election in November was a turning point. The couple had planned to spend a month skiing in Colorado over the winter holidays. They went to Japan instead.

“Trump’s victory left us, especially me, very shocked,” Cuevas said. “For the moment, we have lost the desire to return. I don’t know what will happen in the future, but for the moment we are still shocked, and it doesn’t look like this is going to be resolved.”

According to the government data released Tuesday, international arrivals from China were down nearly 1%. Leisure trips by Chinese citizens to places like Disneyland, Hawaii and New York are decreasing dramatically and likely won’t pick up again until Trump has left office, said Wolfgang Georg Arlt, the CEO of the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute. He dubs it the “Trump Slump.”

That slump has financial consequences. Tourism Economics expects U.S. spending by international visitors to drop by $9 billion this year.

Marco Jahn is the president and CEO of New World Travel, a California company that works with overseas tour operators on vacation packages and activity planning. It arranges the hotels and rental cars for a family that wants to take a driving tour of U.S. national parks, for example.

Jahn said bookings have dropped between 20% and 50%, depending on the source market, over the last eight to 10 weeks. He notes particular declines from Scandinavia, where Trump’s repeated threat to take control of Greenland, a self-governing territory of NATO ally Denmark, has antagonized citizens.

“The U.S. is not perceived as a welcoming destination,” Jahn said.

Beyond, a revenue management platform for vacation rental owners, said Canadian searches for short-term rentals in the U.S. plunged 44% after Feb. 1, when Trump first announced a since-paused 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico. Florida, Texas and New York were among the hardest-hit markets, Beyond said.

American Ring Travel, a tour operator based in California, offers carbon-neutral bus tours of the U.S. that often attract eco-conscious travelers from Europe, said Richard Groesz, the company’s director of contracting. But bookings from Germany flattened starting in January after Elon Musk threw his support behind a far-right political party in that country’s federal election, Groesz said.

There are other issues impacting foreign visits. The U.S. has been the top destination by country for Japanese tourists for years, but data compiled by JTB Tourism Research & Consulting showed South Korea topped the U.S. in January.

The weak yen – not Trump – is likely the biggest factor dampening the attraction of the U.S., said Takaaki Mitamura, a spokesperson for Tokyo-based travel agent Veltra Corp. Travelers are picking destinations where the currency effect isn’t as big, like South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Australia, he said.

Haruka Atomiya, a Tokyo resident, visits Los Angeles at least once a year. Last year, she brought her young children for the first time and did a lot of research to find affordable places to stay. The exchange rate made some hotels double or triple the price she paid in the past.

Atomiya, who went to college in Vermont, has always loved the diversity and the freedom in the U.S. She said she doesn’t understand why Americans elected Trump, but doesn’t plan to stop visiting unless she senses any physical danger.

“If America changes in a way that’s clearly visible, that’s a reality, too, and I will likely keep visiting,” she said. “What will happen to America after Trump intrigues me.”

https://apnews.com/author/dee-ann-durbin

Philadelphia International Airport Enhances Guest Experience By Introducing The Volunteer Navigators Program To Welcome International Travelers For FIFA 2025 And 2026 Celebrations

As Philadelphia gears up to host the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 and a wave of global festivities in 2026, the first impression for millions of international visitors won’t be on the soccer pitch or city streets — it will be at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). And the city is making sure that first impression is nothing short of exceptional.

To roll out the red carpet for fans, teams, and travelers, PHL is expanding its Volunteer Navigator Program — a hospitality initiative designed to provide a friendly, informed, and welcoming face at every terminal. These trained volunteers will be on hand throughout the airport to guide visitors, answer travel-related questions, and offer personalized recommendations on dining, shopping, and exploring Philadelphia.

Volunteer Navigators: The First to Say ‘Welcome’

Managed by Travelers Aid International, the PHL Volunteer Navigator Program is a key part of the airport’s guest services strategy. These volunteers are often the first people visitors meet upon arrival — making them essential to delivering a positive and memorable Philadelphia experience.

As anticipation builds for two years of international attention, the airport is actively seeking enthusiastic locals to join the Navigator team. The goal is to ensure a world-class travel experience from the moment guests arrive.

“Great volunteers are invaluable assets for the airport,” said Leah Douglas, PHL Director of Guest Experience. “PHL’s volunteers show dedication and commitment to making Philadelphia a welcoming and better place for visitors and connecting travelers from across the states and around the world.”

Make a Difference, One Flight at a Time

Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one four-hour shift per week — with options in the morning (8 a.m. to 12 noon), afternoon (12 noon to 4 p.m.), or evening (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.). Fluency in multiple languages is especially encouraged, as it enhances the program’s ability to serve the diverse global audience expected to pass through PHL’s terminals.

Whether guiding a first-time flyer or helping a fan find their gate to the next match, PHL’s Volunteer Navigators are playing a vital role in Philadelphia’s historic moment on the global stage.

“It is important that volunteers are eager to learn and ready to help. The airport is a unique and dynamic place, so it’s vital that volunteers understand their environment,” said Douglas. “A great PHL volunteer is empathetic, friendly, accessible, and respectful. Having knowledge of Philadelphia and the surrounding area is also helpful.”

Join the Team and Help Shape the City’s Story

For Philadelphians looking to be part of something bigger, volunteering at PHL offers a front-row seat to international excitement — and a chance to make visitors feel like they’ve already won, just by landing in the City of Brotherly Love.

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/

If President Trump’s 31% tariffs On Switzerland Are Imposed, Then Instead Of Buying The Rolex Land-Dweller In The U.S. It Will Be Cheaper To Fly First Class From New York To Geneva, Buy The Watch, Stay In A Suite At The Four Seasons, Dine At A Michelin Restaurant And Fly Back

In a world where luxury and logic rarely coexist, a curious financial paradox is emerging in the world of fine watches. Thanks to a proposed tariff hike on Swiss watches imported into the United States, the cost of owning a brand-new Rolex Land-Dweller might skyrocket. If the tariffs are implemented as planned, prices for Swiss watches could jump by as much as 31%. That means, in theory, a watch that has a retail price of €47,400 (about $52,300) would now cost closer to $68,500 for American buyers.

This potential markup of over $16,000 is enough to make even the most brand-loyal Rolex enthusiasts take pause. But more than that, it opens the door to a fascinating and very real possibility: it could soon be cheaper to fly to Geneva in first class, stay in a luxury suite, dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and buy the Land-Dweller locally, all for less than what it would cost to buy the same watch stateside.

The thought reads like the beginning of a luxury heist or a well-researched finance blog hack, but it’s grounded in hard numbers. A round-trip first-class flight from New York City to Geneva with American Airlines can be booked for around $11,000.

The loft suite at the Four Seasons Geneva

Furthermore, a suite at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues—arguably one of the most exclusive stays in the city—can cost about $3,000 for one night. Add in a dinner at one of Geneva’s renowned Michelin-starred restaurants like Domaine de Châteauvieux or Le Chat-Botté, and you’re looking at another $1,000 for a decadent, wine-paired evening.

The Le Chat-Botté

Add all that up—flight, lodging, gourmet experience—and the total cost comes to approximately $15,000. Subtract that from the $16,000 saved by avoiding the tariff-inflated price in the US, and you’re still left with roughly $1,000 to spare. That’s $1,000 after having flown first class across the Atlantic, indulged in five-star hospitality, and walked out of a Swiss boutique with one of the most anticipated Rolex releases of the year strapped to your wrist.

Buyers queued up outside the Rolex store in Geneva.

It sounds outrageous, and yet it is a perfectly rational response to an irrational pricing distortion. Rolex’s pricing structure is famously opaque, with allocation policies and boutique politics sometimes standing in the way of even the wealthiest buyers. But at least for those who have access to the Land-Dweller at MSRP in Switzerland, this workaround not only makes financial sense—it turns the act of purchasing into an experience worthy of the brand’s prestige.

Image – The White House

To be clear, the prices have not changed yet. As of now, the U. price remains untouched, and Swiss boutiques are still selling their models at current retail rates. The scenario, then, is a thought experiment—a projection of what could happen if the US follows through on the proposed 31% tariff on Swiss timepieces. But it’s a scenario that buyers, resellers, and even rival luxury brands are watching closely.

Geneva, long regarded as the beating heart of horology, has always been a kind of pilgrimage site for watch aficionados. But in a world where trade policy warps the cost of global luxury, the Swiss city could become a strange new outpost for American retail therapy. Weekend jaunts to Switzerland may become less of a novelty and more of a calculated financial decision. For those spending five figures on a watch, it’s not absurd to tack on a European vacation—especially when it effectively costs nothing.

There’s also something undeniably poetic about it. A buyer leaving JFK, settling into a lie-flat seat, sipping champagne at altitude, arriving in the cradle of watchmaking, and walking cobbled streets to a boutique perched on the edge of Lake Geneva. They make their purchase in the place where the watch was born, sleep in a suite once occupied by diplomats and dignitaries, and dine under the artistry of chefs who plate with the same precision as a master watchmaker.

Of course, not every buyer will have the time—or inclination—to cross the Atlantic for their watch. But for those who do, this may be one of those rare instances where indulgence is not only enjoyable, but economically justified. In the strange math of luxury under tariffs, flying first class to buy a watch abroad might not be a splurge. It might just be smart shopping.

https://luxurylaunches.com/author/sayan/

American Airlines Unveils New Flagship Menu Items By Award-Winning Chefs

Spring is in the air — and on customers’ plates — thanks to the latest refresh of the James Beard Foundation menu offerings, exclusively available in American Airlines Flagship® lounges.

This season, customers visiting the Flagship® lounge and Flagship® First Dining can expect a vibrant lineup of chef-crafted dishes that bring bold flavors, taking customers on a culinary journey before departing their city of origin. So arrive hungry and depart inspired.

What the’re bringing to the table:

Fresh, seasonal ingredients — think crisp greens, bright citrus and vibrant herbs that celebrate the flavors of spring

Globally inspired dishes — from soulful Southern comfort and Mediterranean spice to Japanese-Californian fusion, each dish reflects a unique culinary perspective

Restaurant-quality dining — thoughtfully curated by award-winning chefs, these dishes bring bold flavors to the lounge experience

Meet the globally recognized chefs shaping this season’s culinary magic:

Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW): Tiffany Derry — Owner of Roots Southern Table, Roots Chicken Shak and Radici Wood Fired Grill, Derry is known for her bold, soulful flavors rooted in Southern traditions. Her dishes include her signature flair, with fresh, seasonal ingredients in each bite. This spring, Derry is serving up coconut chicken curry with carrots, onions, potatoes and peas for customers to enjoy ahead of takeoff.

Chicago (ORD): Sarah Gruenberg — A James Beard Award-winning chef and owner of Monteverde, Gruenberg brings a fresh, contemporary spin on Italian cuisine, pairing handmade pastas with bright, seasonal ingredients. Customers will enjoy marinated lentil salad with smoked salmon, jammy eggs and chicories.

Miami (MIA): Timon Balloo — The creative mind behind The Katherine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Balloo blends global influences with bright, citrusy flavors that are the perfect culinary depiction of the essence of Miami. To welcome the spring travel season, Balloo is bringing Dutch baby potatoes with salsa verde to the Flagship® lounge and pink shrimp ceviche for customers visiting the Flagship® First Dining space.

Los Angeles (LAX): Brandon Kida — The mastermind behind Hinoki & the Bird and Go Go Bird, Kida blends Japanese technique with California’s seasonal bounty, offering refined, flavor-packed dishes with a modern edge. Kida will bring a unique bao bar where customers can enjoy a crispy maitake mushroom bao or a fried chicken bao.

New York (JFK): Ayesha Nurdjaja — At the helm of Shuka and Shukette, Nurdjaja brings the vibrant, spice-laden dishes of the Mediterranean to life, with a focus on fresh herbs, grilled meats and bold textures. Customers visiting the Chelsea and Soho joint premium lounges can enjoy shrimp skewers with white beans, roasted peppers, lemon and cilantro.

With the new menu rotation, American continues to redefine what it means to dine before flight with each unique chef collaboration. Whether kicking off a business trip or celebrating the start of a long-awaited getaway, these chef-inspired menus bring the joy of great food to customers’ journeys — before they even reach their seat.

No secret password needed with the AAdvantage program

With the AAdvantage® program, unlocking access to the Flagship® lounge has never been easier. The more customers fly and earn, the closer they get to enjoying premium perks — like exclusive lounge access where world-class dining and next-level comfort come together.

British Airways Resumes Direct Flights To Tel Aviv Offering Unmatched Access To Israel’s Rich History Culture And Scenic Beauty

Israel remains a captivating destination, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. As of April 5, British Airways has resumed flights

Israel remains a captivating destination, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. As of April 5, British Airways has resumed flights to Tel Aviv, a gateway to the Mediterranean’s sun-kissed shores, marking a notable return to the region. Alongside British Airways, Israeli carrier El Al and budget airline Wizz Air continue to offer direct routes, providing visitors with ample options to explore this fascinating country.

Spring In The Bahamas Brings A Plethora Of Events

April sweeps into The Bahamas like a warm trade wind, stirring the islands to life with a burst of colour, flavour and rhythm. As the days stretch longer and the ocean sparkles under a golden sun, this is the moment to trade routine for revelry. From newly unveiled hotel treasures to festivals that pulse with authentic Bahamian soul, The Bahamas beckons travelers near and far to step into spring with a splash. Discover exclusive offers, savour local traditions and lose yourself in the laid-back luxury of island living – April is your invitation to paradise found.

Events

Pelican Point Coconut Festival (April 21): Held on Grand Bahama Island every Easter Monday, the Coconut Festival is a uniquely Bahamian celebration with a coconut-ty twist. Each year the festival attracts hundreds to the eastern end of the island to enjoy edible coconut creations, coconut jewellery and entertainment.

James Cistern Heritage Affair (April 16-21): This event encourages locals and visitors to come out and enjoy delicious native dishes, desserts, live entertainment, and activities for travelers young and old. Funds raised during the event go towards enhancing the James Cistern area, a small yet charming settlement located in Central Eleuthera, and assisting with initiatives throughout the island.

Bimini Homecoming (April 17-20): Referred to as Bimini’s biggest domestic event of the year, this festival will consist of Bahamian entertainment (seafood dishes, tropical drinks, Bahamian music, live entertainment, beach parties) and four days of fun. This event will begin just before Good Friday and will end on Easter Sunday.

National Family Island Regatta (April 23-26): In The Exumas, enjoy five days of Bahamian sloop sailing competition; a tradition that started in 1954. Class A to E boats compete for the coveted titles in their individual divisions. There will be Bahamian food and drinks on sale, music, and dancing until the wee hours of the morning. Visitors and locals mix and mingle enjoying the national sport of The Bahamas.

Grand Bahama Dive Week (April 26 – May 3): Dive into the underwater wonders of Grand Bahama Island with this week-long celebration of the region’s pristine reefs and marine life. From April 26 - May 3, visitors can join guided excursions to explore vibrant coral gardens, swim with tropical fish and discover historic wrecks. Local dive operators offer special packages, making it a perfect cap to April’s adventures.

Looking ahead…

Bahamas Powerboat Club Full Throttle Poker Run 2025 (May 3, 2025): The most anticipated Boating Event of The Bahamas returns May 3, 2025! With over 150 registered boats, 3,000+ participants and the best vibes, FT Poker Run is regarded as the largest Poker Run in the Caribbean. Event attendees can experience a thrilling ride across the most beautiful turquoise waters with a helicopter guided route to the largest boating event in The Bahamas.

Custom Shootout (May 14-17, 2025): The Custom Shootout Fishing Tournament is a prestigious, invite-only event that celebrates the craftsmanship and innovation of custom sport fishing boats. Held in the stunning waters of The Abacos, the tournament draws passionate anglers and boating enthusiasts from across the globe.

Red Bays Snapper Tournament (May 15-17, 2025): Located on the island of Andros, Red Bays is the only settlement situated on the western side of the Island and the largest fishing community. This event draws visitors from near and far as they compete for the coveted title of 'Best Fisherman'. Patrons can enjoy an array of down-home dishes, drinks and some of the best Bahamian entertainment.

5th Annual Walker’s Cay Blue Marlin Invitational (May 21-24): Looking ahead, the legendary Walker’s Cay hosts its 5th Annual Blue Marlin Invitational from May 21-24. This prestigious tournament draws elite anglers worldwide to compete for over $1 million in prizes amidst the northern Bahamas’ premier fishing grounds. Expect thrilling blue marlin catches, a festive marina scene and a nod to Walker’s Cay’s storied angling legacy – mark your calendars for this standout event.

Promotions and Offers

For a complete list of deals and discounted packages in The Bahamas, visit www.bahamas.com/deals-packages.

Atlantis Paradise Island – 4th Night Free + $150 Resort Credit: Spring into savings at Atlantis Paradise Island with their 4th night free offer. Book a minimum of 4 nights at The Coral, The Royal, The Reef, The Cove or Harborside Resort, and enjoy the 4th night free (a 25% discount off best available rates) plus a $150 resort credit per room, per stay. Credit can be applied for Dolphin & Marine Adventures, Atlantis Kids Adventures, CRUSH, Atlantis LIVE performances, or select dining options.

Travel Highlights

LPIA Guests Rank Airport as Best in the Region: Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) earned top honours as the 2024 Best Airport in the Latin America & Caribbean region for airports serving 2-5 million passengers, according to the Airports Council International (ACI) ASQ Awards. Announced on 10 March 2025, this accolade – based solely on guest surveys – celebrates LPIA’s commitment to seamless, world-class service. “This recognition reflects our team’s dedication and motivates us to aim for a 5-star rating,” said Vernice Walkine, President & CEO of Nassau Airport Development Company. “As The Bahamas’ gateway, LPIA sets the tone for an exceptional travel experience.”

Island Focus: Eleuthera

For those seeking a tranquil spring retreat, Eleuthera beckons with its unspoiled beauty and laid-back allure. Known for its pink-sand beaches, dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, this slender island offers a peaceful contrast to the bustle of everyday life. Explore the Glass Window Bridge – a natural marvel where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean, leaving travelers breathless as they take in a panoramic view of the rich blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean on one side of the road and the bright blue of the Caribbean Sea on the other – or snorkel among vibrant reefs teeming with marine life. With intra-island flights from Nassau twice weekly, Eleuthera is a spring sanctuary for quiet walks, fresh pineapples from local farms and postcard-perfect sunsets.

Don’t miss out on the unforgettable experiences and unbeatable deals that The Bahamas has to offer this April. For more information on these exciting events and offerings, visit www.bahamas.com.

About The Bahamas:

The Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for travelers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram.

United Grows Its Leading Pacific Network With New Flights To Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Adelaide And Manila

United today announced it intends to be the only U.S. airline to offer flights to Bangkok, Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with new daily service from Hong Kong planned to start this fall*. These new flights will be scheduled to offer easier connections for travelers from across North America to help meet the growing demand for travel to these destinations.

Starting December 11, United will launch the first nonstop flights between the U.S. and Adelaide, Australia – just in time for the Australian summer. With the addition of this three times weekly seasonal service, United is now the leading carrier to Australia from the continental U.S., also offering flights to Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne.

In addition, United is also adding a second daily flight between San Francisco and Manila. Starting on October 25, travelers from both cities will have the option of a daytime or evening flight for greater convenience. United is the only U.S. airline to serve the Philippines, with service to both Manila and Cebu.

With these new routes, United will now offer flights from the U.S. to 32 different cities in the Pacific region – four times that of any other U.S. carrier – further cementing its status as the world's largest airline** with the most extensive international network.

"At United, we're changing the way people think about where they travel – by offering the greatest access to see and explore the world, whether it's for relaxation, adventure or business," said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President, Global Network Planning and Alliances at United. "We offer more than the best schedule and travel options – we connect customers to sought after destinations and opportunities to explore new, vibrant cities."

United is the world's leading carrier across the Pacific**; in the past year alone, the airline served more than six million business and leisure passengers in the Pacific region.

Tickets for the Adelaide and the new Manila flights are on sale now on United.com and on the United app. Tickets for Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City flights will be available for sale at a later date.

Bangkok, Thailand

United will be the only U.S. airline to offer daily flights to Bangkok starting October 26. The flights will operate on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and allow a mix of local and international travelers to explore the city's deep history.

Known for mixing vibrancy and tradition, there is plenty to explore in Bangkok. Customers can see hundreds of ancient temples like Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), check out Lumpini Park – a green oasis amid the bustling cityscape, ride in a tuk-tuk around the city, sample street food like mango sticky rice, boat noodles, and gai tod, and finish the evening walking through Srinagarindra Train Night Market filled with local eats, lights, live bands and bars.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Beginning October 26, United will be the only U.S. airline to offer daily flights to Ho Chi Minh City. The flights will operate on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and allow a mix of local and international travelers to explore the city's deep history.

Customers visiting can enjoy notable sites like The Saigon Opera House and Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, scooter through rice field paths, try amazing Vietnamese flavors from open-air pho stalls and local street vendors, enjoy the bursting microbrewery scene, and much more.

Adelaide, Australia

United will become the first carrier to offer nonstop service between the U.S. and Adelaide* with its nonstop three-times weekly seasonal service from San Francisco starting on December 11. The flight will operate on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and builds on United's leading network coverage, making United the only airline to offer nonstop service between the U.S. and four major cities in Australia. These routes, combined with the airline's partnership with Virgin Australia, offer travelers more choice and access across the country.

Adelaide offers U.S. travelers the chance to escape the cold and visit renowned wine regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, experience the stunning natural beauty of Kangaroo Island, and taste the region's impeccable produce while exploring stands from more than 70 local traders at the Adelaide Central Markets – one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.

Manila, Philippines

On October 25, United will begin flying its second flight between San Francisco and Manila*, bringing U.S. travelers more flexibility between day and evening flights when traveling to the Philippines. The flight will be operated on a Boeing 777-300ER.

Customers can visit historic sites like San Agustin and Fort Santiago, try local Filipino foods like kwek-kwek, turon, and halo-halo from street vendors , shop at one of the largest malls in Asia – the Mall of Asia, take in art and history at some of the country's national museums housed in Manila, or make a day trip to Tagaytay and cruise by boat to see the stunning Taal Volcano – a natural wonder set on its own island.

United's Growing Global Reach

United has the largest network in the world**, including the largest international network from North America, which it continues to expand at an industry-leading pace. The airline offers approximately 500 daily flights to and from 150 international destinations for travelers around the world. This expansion reinforces United's commitment to growing its network and bringing travelers to new destinations. The airline is also gearing up to kick off its highly anticipated Summer 2025 schedule that was announced last October.

* Subject to government approval ** As measured by available seat miles

For more details, please visit: https://www.united.com/en/us

Walt Disney World Cuts Ticket Prices For Kids This Summer

Taking kids on a summer vacation to Walt Disney World just got cheaper.

The Florida theme park announced this week it is offering half-price tickets for kids ages 3 to 9, plus other family-friendly discounts and entertainment this summer.

Here is what to know about the offerings.

Half-price kids tickets valid through Sept. 20

Half-price kids tickets are now available for purchase.

The 50% discount is valid on three-day tickets or longer and on visits from May 27 through Sept. 20, 2025.

Adult pricing for Disney World tickets begins at age 10. Guests under age 3 may enter for free.

Return of the free dining plan deal

Disney-goers can get a free dining plan with the purchase a non-discounted four-night, four-day (or longer) package that includes a room at select Disney Resort hotels, and a ticket with a Park Hopper option.

The offer is valid for visits on select dates from June 29 through Dec. 22, 2025.

Kid zone experiences at Magic Kingdom, Epcot

From May 27 through Sept. 1, new experiences will open in Magic Kingdom and Epcot designed specifically for kids.

Kid zones at Magic Kingdom in Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland will offer new activities and opportunities to interact with Disney characters.

At Epcot, Goofy will take over CommuniCore Hall, where kids can cool down and have fun in what Disney describes as the "ultimate game party and play space."

New shows and a nighttime parade

A new nighttime parade is coming to Magic Kingdom later this summer, featuring characters from "Peter Pan," "Frozen," "Encanto" and more.

The Disney Starlight parade is the first nighttime parade at Disney World in almost a decade, according to the company.

At Hollywood Studios, two new shows for kids will debut on May 27 -- "The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure" and "Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After."

Character visits at select Disney hotels

This summer, select resorts -- Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Pop Century Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Wilderness Lodge -- will feature character visits and new Disney-themed activities for families.

https://abcnews.go.com/author/GMA_Team

Trump's Tariffs Set To Drive Up Bar Bills And Wipe Out Spirits Jobs

U.S. drinkers will pay more for cocktails, champagne and foreign beers, brands will disappear from bar menus and jobs will be lost on both sides of the Atlantic as a result of U.S. President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs, drinks industry bodies and analysts said on Thursday.

Trump's latest round of global and country-specific tariffs was set to hit everything from the popular negroni cocktail, based on Italy's Campari liqueur, to Guinness stout, made by the world's top spirits producer Diageo.

He also introduced a 25% levy on all beer imports and added beer cans to existing aluminium tariffs, hitting labels such as Mexican-made Corona and Dutch Heineken.

Shares of some spirits companies such as Diageo and Campari however gained as threats of 25% tariffs affecting Mexican tequila and Canadian whisky did not materialise. A threatened 200% tariff on European alcohol also remained outstanding for now.

However, industry bodies said the levies laid out on Wednesday were already high enough to hurt sectors that rely heavily on U.S. drinkers for sales.

European spirits exports alone to the U.S. stood at 2.9 billion euros ($3.18 billion) in 2024, according to trade body spiritsEurope, which said many U.S.-based jobs also relied on this trade.

French groups and officials warned of a 20% slide in sales and mass layoffs in regions like Cognac, where French brandy is produced for export, largely to the U.S. and China. The Spanish Wine Association warned no market could offset lost sales in the United States.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

"Many labels, which cannot be replaced by local production, will disappear from the tables of U.S. consumers, while a serious production and employment crisis is looming in Italy and Europe," Micaela Pallini, president of Italian trade association Federvini, said in a statement.

Japanese drinks maker Suntory said it will focus on selling spirits in countries where they are made as a result of tariffs.

Other major spirits and beer producers either declined to comment, did not immediately respond to requests for comment or said they were assessing the impact.

Analysts at UBS estimated that large listed spirits makers would have to hike prices by between 2% and 5% to cover the tariffs, or absorb the cost themselves and take a similar hit to operating profit.

Serious discussions about prices were underway now that tariff rates are known, said Tammy Curtis, senior vice president of commercial finance at Republic National Distributing Company, a top U.S. spirits distributor. "There will be winners and losers," she said, adding products where more of the tariff can be absorbed throughout the supply chain will fare better.

Sales of products like wine and cognac are already falling in the United States. French and Spanish wine producers told Reuters U.S. drinkers would have to pay some of the cost of tariffs. This would hurt U.S. wine businesses more than foreign counterparts, the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance added.

NOWHERE TO GO

Strategies used to mitigate tariffs during Trump's first term, such as shipping wine in bulk, would not help with these blanket levies, Allan Sichel, chairman of Bordeaux wine lobby CIVB, said.

Some producers may be able to shift manufacturing or parts of it, such as bottling. Other products like French champagne or Scotch whisky have to be made in specific countries or designated regions and cannot move production.

The Irish whiskey sector exports 40% of its production to the U.S., which drives growth and helps fund expansion in other markets, said Eoin O Cathain, head of the Irish Whiskey Association.

Companies may now shift their focus elsewhere, he continued, especially given ongoing uncertainty.

While Europe was spared the 200% tariff Trump has threatened to impose, it could still come if Europe's retaliation hits U.S. spirits, such as bourbon whiskey. "If it goes up to 200%, that'll be game over. The U.S. market will be finished," said Frederic Zeimett, CEO of Champagne Leclerc Briant which exports to the United States. ($1 = 0.9116 euros)

Reporting by Emma Rumney in London, Elisa Anzolin in Milan, Sybille de La Hamaide, Dominique Patton, Tassilo Hummel in Paris and Corina Pons and Emma Pinedo in Madrid; Additional reporting by Diana Mandia Alvarez in Gdansk and Lucien Libert in Paris; Writing by Emma Rumney; Editing by Barbara Lewis and Tomasz Janowski

Canada’s Snowbirds Reconsider Calling The US Their Second Home

Sharon Savoy, a 65-year-old retiree from just outside of Toronto, had planned a typical three-month stay at her vacation home in Miami earlier this month. But then she abruptly decided to put the trip on hold, and now she wonders when she’ll ever go back to her second home.

Tariffs to be placed on Canada and other U.S. trading partners may significantly impact Florida's tourism industry. STRF/STAR MAX/IPx/AP

“I should be there right now,” Savoy told CNN. “But we’re trying to debate whether or not it’s a good idea to go.”

Savoy is one of the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who make their home in warmer parts of the United States during Canada’s colder months. In fact, Canadians are the top foreign buyers of US properties — making up 13% of all home purchases in 2024, mostly concentrated in Florida and Arizona — according to a July report from the National Association of Realtors.

But as trade tensions grow between the two countries, many Canadians have taken the conflict to heart, loudly booing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at sporting events and boycotting US-made products. Some Canadian snowbirds are reconsidering their lives in the United States altogether. US-based Realtors in Arizona and Florida told CNN they are fielding calls from Canadians looking to sell their homes, and recent data shows Canadian tourism to the United States has slowed to a trickle.

Stephen Fine, the president of Snowbird Advisor, a Canadian company that provides real estate, legal and insurance guidance to Canadians who travel south for the winter, said many of his company’s members feel “angry, upset, disappointed and frustrated.”

“A number of them are considering alternative destinations to the US next year. Some want to sell their US properties,” Fine said.

Savoy said that although she loves her Miami home, she is putting off a visit to show solidarity with her fellow Canadians.

“I’m in these snowbird groups where people have been saying we shouldn’t be spending money in the US,” she said. “I don’t want my country to feel like I’m betraying them during this threatening time.”

Economic fallout from tariffs

A drop-off in Canadian tourism could bruise the US tourism industry.

Canada is the top source of international visitors to the United States, according to the US Travel Association. A hypothetical 10% reduction in Canadian travel could mean $2.1 billion in lost spending and 14,000 job losses.

There are already signs of a slowdown: Canadian residents made 13% fewer trips by air to the United States in February and 23% fewer trips by car, compared to a year ago, according to Statistics Canada, Canada’s national statistical office.

Flight reservations from Canada to the United States have plummeted by more than 70% every month from March through the end of September, according to OAG, a travel data provider.

Share Ross, a Realtor based in southeast Florida, said she’s recently seen a sharp uptick in Canadians listing their Florida homes for sale.

“Some of the clients I have been dealing with want to sell at any cost, even at a loss,” Ross said.

Rental properties have also experienced a steep decline in demand this year, she said.

“The Canadian market for rentals is just done,” said Ross. “I usually get a few people from various provinces looking for homes to rent. I didn’t have any this season.”

A growing exodus of Canadians from Florida could strain the state’s already troubled housing market. Florida currently has a record number of homes for sale as homeowners face skyrocketing insurance premiums and a growing risk of hurricane-induced flooding fueled by climate change.

The drop-off in travel from Canada to the United States comes amid a bubbling tit-for-tat trade squabble between the two nations. The latest blow came this past week: US President Donald Trump said he would place a 25% tariff on all auto imports, which Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called a “direct attack” in violation of US trade agreements with Canada.

Earlier this month, the Trump administration officially placed a 25% tariff on most of the other imports from Canada and Mexico. The president also ramped up threats to annex Canada and make it the 51st state. Canada responded by announcing retaliatory tariffs on billions of dollars worth of American goods, though the trade war threatens to plunge Canada’s economy into a recession.

“It is clear that the United States is no longer a reliable partner,” Carney said Thursday, adding that Canada would look to shift to trading more with other countries.

To sell or not to sell?

Miles Zimbaluk, an Arizona-based Realtor who offers cross-border real estate guidance for Canadians looking to buy and sell US property, said he believes politics isn’t the only thing motivating more Canadians to list their properties for sale.

Zimbaluk said a weakened Canadian dollar has factored into some snowbirds’ decision-making process. Last month, the Canadian dollar fell to its lowest level against the US dollar since 2003, meaning that everyday goods like groceries and gas have become significantly more expensive for Canadians. It also means that Canadians stand to make a profit by moving their money from the United States to Canada.

“There are people cashing in now and taking that dollar back to Canada and converting it back to Canadian dollars,” Zimbaluk said. “We’ve definitely seen a big uptick in people wanting to sell their homes for a lot of different reasons right now.”

Savoy, the Toronto-based retiree, said she isn’t quite ready to put her Miami home up for sale.

“I enjoy my life there. Miami has some great nightlife and beautiful beaches. It’s got everything you need, and I’ve never had any issues,” she said. “But if things continue to get worse, I will be selling my home in the USA. Not because I’m afraid of being there, but because, why would I want to do business there?”

https://www.cnn.com/profiles/samantha-delouya

If You Live In New York Uber Shuttle will get you to JFK airport for $10, Increasing To $25 After April 30th

Uber is expanding its airport shuttle service to include one of the busiest hubs in the world, New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. For a limited time, customers can grab a ride from specific stops in Manhattan or Brooklyn to JFK for just $10. After April 30th, the fare increases to $25, including taxes.

Uber’s shuttle to JFK runs every 30 minutes. Image: Uber

Airport runs are a crucial part of Uber’s business, and customers have expressed frustration at the rising cost of booking a car to the airport. JFK, in particular, is one of the most expensive airports for travelers, with Uber and Lyft trips costing $80 or more, depending on the pickup location. By bundling riders together in a shuttle, Uber hopes to introduce a more affordable option to budget-conscious customers.

For JFK trips, customers can use the Uber app to book up to four seats in a shuttle. Rides can be booked up to seven days ahead of time or simply on the day you need it. Riders will get their pricing upfront before booking and won’t be subject to surge pricing.

Image: Uber

When the shuttle arrives, riders will validate their reservation with the driver via QR code and a unique PIN. At launch, vehicles will be limited to just 14 passengers. Each rider is allowed one personal item, like a purse or backpack, and one piece of luggage (carry-on or checked) weighing up to 50 pounds. Riders can rate and tip drivers in the app, just like a normal Uber trip.

Uber says it will operate four routes to JFK, with pickup locations at Port Authority, Grand Central Terminal, Chinatown, and Atlantic Center in Brooklyn. The service will run every 30 minutes from 5AM to 10:45PM, seven days a week. For its shuttle business, Uber is partnering with fleet providers who manage commercially licensed drivers. In New York, the company is using ETS, an airport shuttle operator since 1996.

Uber has been experimenting with shuttle service for airports and concerts, including $15 rides to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert in Miami last year. The company also launched an $18 shuttle to LaGuardia Airport last year. (That price is now $20.) For airport trips, the company needs to negotiate terms with airport operators before a new service can be launched. Uber said it’s currently in talks with Boston’s Logan International Airport about bringing its shuttle service there.

https://www.theverge.com/authors/andrew-j-hawkins

Trump Travel Ban Indefinitely Delayed As U.S. Continues To Revoke Visas

A plan for the Trump administration to bar entry into the United States from foreign nationals whose countries do not meet its vetting standards has been indefinitely postponed, with no new date set.

The State Department said Monday it is continuing to work on the report that would serve as the basis for the anticipated visa restrictions but could not say when it would be ready. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on his first day in office requesting recommendations on what new visa restrictions should be applied to which countries by March 21.

Trump gave his administration 60 days to submit a report "identifying countries throughout the world for which vetting and screening information is so deficient as to warrant a partial or full suspension on the admission of nationals from those countries."

A list of more than 40 nations, including Iran, Russia and Venezuela, were reportedly under consideration for full or partially restricted travel to the U.S. as part of the mandate, which built on a travel ban Trump enacted during his first term and the Supreme Court upheld.

But the due date for an official list to be submitted came and went without an announcement from the White House, and the State Department's top spokesperson declared the deadline no longer in effect.

State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said at a briefing on Monday that a new date for the recommendations had not been set. She called the original deadline, which was set by Trump's executive order, a "target date that no longer applies" without offering an explanation.

"The State Department like every department in President Trump's administration are acting on executive orders, including this one," Bruce said.

It was not immediately clear why the administration postponed the report that would lay the groundwork for Trump to enact a new travel ban and impose visa restrictions on foreign nationals from select countries.

"I can't speak to that. But I can tell you that we're working on what the executive order asked for," Bruce said, describing them as "restrictions on other countries" of "whether or not they meet the standard of security and vetting that's required for entry into the United States" rather than a travel ban.

Asked to clarify if a new date had been set, she said "no," before adding, "Again, because there's not a date, it doesn't mean that it's not being worked on. And so we are all working to implement what President Trump has ordered."

The White House declined to provide a comment.

At a previous briefing, on the report's March 21 due date, Bruce told reporters the deadline was no longer that day. "I can’t tell you the specifics, but it’s – don’t expect... that today is a day that something will have to come out," she said.

State Department revokes visas

Trump issued multiple bans on travel from seven Muslim-majority countries during his first term, with each of them facing legal challenges, before the Supreme Court ruled in his favor in 2018.

In his January executive order, he told U.S. officials to use the standards that were in place when he left office as a baseline for reestablishing screening and vetting procedures.

Trump's order tasked the secretary of state, director of national intelligence, attorney general and secretary of homeland security with jointly submitting recommendations for a list of countries that would be slapped with the visa restrictions.

He also told them to identify "how many nationals from those countries have entered or have been admitted" into the country since former President Joe Biden took office and directed DHS to "take immediate steps to exclude or remove" foreign national from the country who do not meet the current administration's vetting standards.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters Friday that the department is doing daily reviews to revoke visas when a person undertakes activities counter to the national interest or foreign policy of the U.S. government or the person is involved in criminal activity.

“My standard — If we knew this information about them before we gave them a visa, would we have allowed them in?” Rubio said. “And if the answer is no, then we revoke the visa.” He said upward of 300 student visas have been affected.

Last week, Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained 30-year-old Rumeysa Ozturka, a Turkish graduate student studying at Tufts University near Boston. The Department of Homeland Security told USA TODAY that she supported the terrorist group Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip and has been at war with Israel.

Days before that, Customs and Border Patrol deported Dr. Rasha Alawieh, a Lebanese national who had a work visa to practice at Brown Medicine in Rhode Island. Customs and Border Protection alleged her phone had content that was sympathetic to the terrorist group Hezbollah.

And Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Syria-born Mahmoud Khalil, who was one of the pro-Palestinian leaders of the encampment protests at Columbia University last year. Another Columbia student, Korean-born Yunseo Chung, sued the Trump administration to maintain her legal permanent residency in the U.S.

Rubio said student visas are among those being reviewed but he wasn’t sure if they were the only ones. “We’ve also identified people that have criminal charges and even while in the country, and still have active visas. Some are unrelated to any protests and are just having to do with potential criminal activity.”

https://www.usatoday.com/staff/9751000002/francesca-chambers/ https://www.usatoday.com/staff/3063822001/erin-mansfield/