Seats on Delta partner airlines Air France and KLM also remain bookable.
Sunday, August 31, 2025
Travelore News: Delta Resumes Tel Aviv Service From JFK On Sept. 1
Delta will resume daily flights to Tel Aviv (TLV) from New York-JFK on Sept. 1, 2025. The route will be flown on Delta’s state-of-the-art Airbus A330-900neo, offering four product experiences: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort and Delta Main.
Seats on Delta partner airlines Air France and KLM also remain bookable.
Seats on Delta partner airlines Air France and KLM also remain bookable.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Mexico Preparing To Host The 2026 FIFA World Cup, Including The Opening Ceremony And Match At The Mexico City Stadium
Unveiled at Punto México before business chambers, tourism organizations, and industry leaders, the plan lays out concrete actions to promote Mexico to millions of visitors and global audiences during the month-long tournament.
A Tournament for the Entire Country
Rodríguez stressed that the strategy is designed to benefit all 32 states, not just the three host cities – Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. By coordinating public and private efforts, the government aims to welcome more than 5.5 million additional visitors, generate investment, create jobs, and strengthen Mexico’s image as one of the world’s leading tourism and cultural destinations.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in history, with 48 teams competing in 104 matches across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Mexico will host 13 of those matches, including the opening ceremony and match at Mexico City Stadium (formerly Estadio Azteca) on June 11,2026. The stadium will become the only venue in the world to have hosted three World Cup openers, after doing so in 1970 and 1986.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trigger new investments, strengthen tourism employment, and promote Mexico as what it truly is: one of the most important destinations in the world,” Rodríguez said.
National Tourism and Cultural Programs
The federal strategy includes a wide range of initiatives to highlight Mexico’s culture, gastronomy, and heritage during the tournament.
From June 5 to July 22, the México de mis Sabores Gastronomic Festival will take place at Campo Deportivo Militar Marte in Mexico City, showcasing regional cuisines from across the country. Specially designed tourist routes will connect visitors with attractions in and around host cities, while archaeological zones will host demonstrations of the traditional Mesoamerican ballgame.
A National Soccer Championship among Pueblos Mágicos, planned for late 2025, will blend sport and cultural tourism in some of Mexico’s most emblematic towns. In addition, the Rutas Mágicas de Color program will carry out beautification projects in select Pueblos Mágicos, enhancing public spaces for residents and visitors.
Host City Preparations
Each host city is developing its own plans to ensure visitors enjoy a world-class experience.
In 2026 FIFA World Cup, Secretary of Tourism Alejandra Frausto Guerrero, who also serves as Technical Secretary of the Mexico City World Cup Committee, highlighted the 3-billion-pesos renovation of Mexico City Stadium. After the tournament, the stadium will be transformed into a convention and trade fair center, providing a lasting venue for international events.
In Jalisco, Secretary of Tourism Michelle Fridman Hirsch announced the creation of new tourism routes and experiences to encourage visitors to explore beyond Guadalajara. Upgrades to airport and hotel infrastructure are underway, and Zapopan Mayor Juan José Frangie Saade, General Coordinator of the World Cup in Jalisco, emphasized that this will be the first time the Mexican national team plays in the state. Both officials noted the importance of ensuring the tournament’s benefits reach communities across Jalisco.
In Nuevo León, Secretary of Tourism Maricarmen Martínez Villarreal outlined the state’s three-pillar plan – public works, Ponte Nuevo, and FIFA experience – focusing on infrastructure improvements, public safety, space renovation, and reforestation. The goal is to position Nuevo León not only as an industrial powerhouse but also as a leading tourism destination.
Historic Hosting Legacy
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will make Mexico the first country to host the tournament three times. In 1970, Pelé led Brazil to victory, while in 1986, Diego Maradona delivered one of football’s most iconic performances, guiding Argentina to the title.
In 2026, matches in Mexico will be held at:
● Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City(opening match)
● Estadio Akron in Guadalajara
● Estadio BBVA in Monterrey
FIFA has also unveiled the first-ever city-specific official posters for a World Cup, with designs celebrating each host city’s passion for football.
Working With the Private Sector
Rodríguez called for active participation from private companies in the tourism, hospitality, and service industries. She emphasized that public–private partnerships will be essential to maximizing the World Cup’s economic, cultural, and social impact.
“We are ready to make the 2026 World Cup the best in history,” she said. “In coordination with the three levels of government and the host city committees, Mexico will showcase itself to the world as the great tourism and cultural power it is, bringing the benefits of this event to every corner of the country, as instructed by our President, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.”
Gabriela Cuevas Barrón added that the scale of this edition provides a unique chance to build long-term infrastructure, cultural programs, and community engagement projects that will last far beyond the final whistle.
Tournament Details
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, in 16 cities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Mexico will host 13 matches, including the highly anticipated opening match in Mexico City. Organizers estimate that the event will attract 5.5million additional visitors to Mexico, creating significant opportunities for tourism promotion and economic growth.
By combining infrastructure upgrades, cultural programming, and nationwide engagement, Mexico’s strategy aims to create not just an unforgettable tournament but also a legacy that strengthens tourism, fosters pride, and benefits communities across the country.
For more information on the FIFA World Cup2026™ and Mexico’s preparations, visit: www.fifa.com
Friday, August 29, 2025
How Southwest Airlines’ New Policy Will Affect Plus-Size Travelers
Southwest Airlines will soon require travelers who don’t fit within the armrests of their seat to pay for an extra one in advance, part of a string of recent changes the carrier is making.
A Southwest Airlines plane pull into a gate at Pittsburgh International Airport in Imperial, Pa., Thursday, March 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)
The new rule goes into effect Jan. 27, the same day Southwest starts assigning seats.
Currently, plus-size passengers can either pay for an extra seat in advance with the option of getting that money back later, or they can request a free extra seat at the airport. Under the carrier’s new policy, a refund is still possible but no longer guaranteed.
In a statement Monday, Southwest said it is updating some of its policies as it prepares for assigned seating next year.
“To ensure space, we are communicating to Customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking,” the statement said.
It marks the latest change at Southwest, which had long been known for letting its passengers pick their own seats after boarding the plane, and for letting their bags fly for free, which ended in May. Those perks were key to differentiating the budget carrier from its rivals.
Southwest says it will still refund a second ticket under its new policy for extra seating if the flight isn’t fully booked at the time of departure, and if both of the passenger’s tickets were purchased in the same booking class. The passenger also needs to request the refund within 90 days of the flight.
If a passenger who needs an extra seat doesn’t purchase one ahead of time, they will be required to buy one at the airport, according to the new policy. If the flight is full, the passenger will be rebooked onto a new flight.
Jason Vaughn, an Orlando-based travel agent who posts theme park reviews and travel tips for plus-size people on social media and his website, Fat Travel Tested, said the change will likely impact travelers of all sizes. Southwest’s current policy helped create a more comfortable flying experience for plus-size travelers, he said, while also ensuring all passengers have adequate space in their seats.
“I think it’s going to make the flying experience worse for everybody,” he said of the new rule.
Vaughn described the change as yet another letdown for Southwest loyalists like himself, likening it to Cracker Barrel’s recent logo change that has angered some of the restaurant’s fans.
“They have no idea anymore who their customer is,” he said of the airline. “They have no identity left.”
The airline has struggled recently and is under pressure from activist investors to boost profits and revenue. It also said last year that it would charge customers extra for more legroom and offer red-eye flights.
https://apnews.com/author/rio-yamat
The new rule goes into effect Jan. 27, the same day Southwest starts assigning seats.
Currently, plus-size passengers can either pay for an extra seat in advance with the option of getting that money back later, or they can request a free extra seat at the airport. Under the carrier’s new policy, a refund is still possible but no longer guaranteed.
In a statement Monday, Southwest said it is updating some of its policies as it prepares for assigned seating next year.
“To ensure space, we are communicating to Customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking,” the statement said.
It marks the latest change at Southwest, which had long been known for letting its passengers pick their own seats after boarding the plane, and for letting their bags fly for free, which ended in May. Those perks were key to differentiating the budget carrier from its rivals.
Southwest says it will still refund a second ticket under its new policy for extra seating if the flight isn’t fully booked at the time of departure, and if both of the passenger’s tickets were purchased in the same booking class. The passenger also needs to request the refund within 90 days of the flight.
If a passenger who needs an extra seat doesn’t purchase one ahead of time, they will be required to buy one at the airport, according to the new policy. If the flight is full, the passenger will be rebooked onto a new flight.
Jason Vaughn, an Orlando-based travel agent who posts theme park reviews and travel tips for plus-size people on social media and his website, Fat Travel Tested, said the change will likely impact travelers of all sizes. Southwest’s current policy helped create a more comfortable flying experience for plus-size travelers, he said, while also ensuring all passengers have adequate space in their seats.
“I think it’s going to make the flying experience worse for everybody,” he said of the new rule.
Vaughn described the change as yet another letdown for Southwest loyalists like himself, likening it to Cracker Barrel’s recent logo change that has angered some of the restaurant’s fans.
“They have no idea anymore who their customer is,” he said of the airline. “They have no identity left.”
The airline has struggled recently and is under pressure from activist investors to boost profits and revenue. It also said last year that it would charge customers extra for more legroom and offer red-eye flights.
https://apnews.com/author/rio-yamat
Thursday, August 28, 2025
United Airlines Adds New Fresh Appetizers To Transatlantic Economy Meals
While most passengers don’t choose an airline based solely on meal service, quality food can influence loyalty.
Photo: United Airlines
United Airlines (UA) is making changes to its international economy service, replacing pretzels with fresh packaged appetizers on flights between Europe and the United States starting September 2025.
The airline says the move will create a more premium dining experience without extending service time. Passengers flying in economy class on transatlantic routes will now receive a multi-course setup closer to what is typically seen in business class.
According to an internal memo shared with flight attendants and seen by Live and Let’s Fly, United Airlines (UA) is introducing a revised three-step meal process in economy class. Instead of distributing pretzels (USA departures) or breadsticks (Europe departures), crews will now serve a fresh packaged appetizer alongside beverages at the start of the meal service.
The updated process includes:
Pre-meal service: Beverage and starter cart with cutlery, salad, dressing, bread, butter, packaged appetizer, and dessert.
Collection as needed: Crews clear trays to prepare for the main course.
Main meal service: Beverage and entrée cart. Warm entrées are offered on black trays with a choice of options.
The structure mirrors Delta Air Lines’ (DL) international economy service but with added elements like salad and bread, which Delta does not include.
Photo: Clément Alloing
Not all United (UA) flights will follow the new service sequence. Two key exceptions apply:
Late-night departures: Flights with a scheduled takeoff after 8:00 pm will continue using the single-tray method.
Aircraft limitations: Boeing 767-300 flights will maintain the current service due to crew ratios and galley space.
Additionally, United is trialing a more upscale bread service. On routes such as Los Angeles (LAX) and Washington Dulles (IAD) to London Heathrow (LHR), dinner rolls may be offered from a basket rather than individually wrapped.
Photo: Delta
While most passengers don’t choose an airline based solely on meal service, quality food can influence loyalty. United’s move follows a trend where airlines test improvements in long-haul economy.
For example, JetBlue Airways (B6) previously offered fresh, varied meals on its transatlantic routes before scaling back hot entrées.
United’s economy meals already include strong midflight and pre-arrival offerings, such as hot sandwiches and full hot breakfasts on West Coast–Europe flights.
Enhancing the initial service with fresh appetizers may further separate United from competitors like American Airlines (AA) and Delta Air Lines (DL).
The update signals a shift in how United positions its economy service. The airline is betting that a more thoughtful dining experience can raise satisfaction scores and create repeat customers, even among those not flying premium cabins.
CEO Scott Kirby has often referred to the importance of building “sticky” loyalty, and meal service is becoming part of that strategy.
https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/author/nataliashelley/
United Airlines (UA) is making changes to its international economy service, replacing pretzels with fresh packaged appetizers on flights between Europe and the United States starting September 2025.
The airline says the move will create a more premium dining experience without extending service time. Passengers flying in economy class on transatlantic routes will now receive a multi-course setup closer to what is typically seen in business class.
According to an internal memo shared with flight attendants and seen by Live and Let’s Fly, United Airlines (UA) is introducing a revised three-step meal process in economy class. Instead of distributing pretzels (USA departures) or breadsticks (Europe departures), crews will now serve a fresh packaged appetizer alongside beverages at the start of the meal service.
The updated process includes:
Pre-meal service: Beverage and starter cart with cutlery, salad, dressing, bread, butter, packaged appetizer, and dessert.
Collection as needed: Crews clear trays to prepare for the main course.
Main meal service: Beverage and entrée cart. Warm entrées are offered on black trays with a choice of options.
The structure mirrors Delta Air Lines’ (DL) international economy service but with added elements like salad and bread, which Delta does not include.
Not all United (UA) flights will follow the new service sequence. Two key exceptions apply:
Late-night departures: Flights with a scheduled takeoff after 8:00 pm will continue using the single-tray method.
Aircraft limitations: Boeing 767-300 flights will maintain the current service due to crew ratios and galley space.
Additionally, United is trialing a more upscale bread service. On routes such as Los Angeles (LAX) and Washington Dulles (IAD) to London Heathrow (LHR), dinner rolls may be offered from a basket rather than individually wrapped.
While most passengers don’t choose an airline based solely on meal service, quality food can influence loyalty. United’s move follows a trend where airlines test improvements in long-haul economy.
For example, JetBlue Airways (B6) previously offered fresh, varied meals on its transatlantic routes before scaling back hot entrées.
United’s economy meals already include strong midflight and pre-arrival offerings, such as hot sandwiches and full hot breakfasts on West Coast–Europe flights.
Enhancing the initial service with fresh appetizers may further separate United from competitors like American Airlines (AA) and Delta Air Lines (DL).
The update signals a shift in how United positions its economy service. The airline is betting that a more thoughtful dining experience can raise satisfaction scores and create repeat customers, even among those not flying premium cabins.
CEO Scott Kirby has often referred to the importance of building “sticky” loyalty, and meal service is becoming part of that strategy.
https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/author/nataliashelley/
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Lindblad Names Two New Ships And Launches ‘Explorers-In-Training’
It’s been a busy month for National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions, which named its two new ships, National Geographic Gemini and National Geographic Delfina, in an elaborate christening ceremony in the Galápagos Islands on July 9, 2025, and launched its new “Explorers-in-Training” programming for kids and teens at the end of July.
National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions' two new ships, Delfina and Gemini, in the Galápagos Islands.
Courtesy of National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions
Anchored in Academy Bay, the two new ships were joined by their sibling vessels, National Geographic Islander II and National Geographic Endeavour II. Onboard the Gemini, the crew were joined by several members of Lindblad Expeditions’ executive team, including CEO Natalya Leahy and Interim Chief Maritime Officer, Rear Admiral Keith Taylor, plus several local partners, community members and their families.
“Today, we celebrate not just an event, we’re celebrating a story that started in February 1967, when Lars-Eric Lindblad led the very first non-scientific expedition to the Galápagos Islands,” said Leahy. “Today’s naming is done in honor of the Galápagos community. We will continue our hard work right by your side and never forget that we are just visitors to your home.”
Two New Ships: Gemini and Delfina
Designed to hold just 48 guests in its 27 outward-facing staterooms, National Geographic Gemini strikes a perfect balance between small-ship and large-ship cruising, with plenty of activities, space to stretch out on the deck and enough peace to relax in the library or lounge. Ideal for intimate group sailings, National Geographic Delfina holds just 16 guests in its eight artfully designed guest rooms, all of which provide access to an outer deck or private balcony.
Both ships come equipped with a whirlpool hot tub to unwind in after a long day of sightseeing, and you can expect educational talks by onboard naturalists and an elegant dining experience featuring locally sourced food and wine. To cut down on food waste, passengers are encouraged to note their dinner preferences ahead of time, while coffee, tea, and tasty Ecuadorian snacks are available 24/7 in the lounge, just in case.
You can experience the Gemini on the 10-day Exploring Galápagos sailing (from $5,556 per person) or the Delfina during the 10-day Galápagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage itinerary (from $7,900 per person). Both trips also offer a longer 16-day version that adds time in Peru and a trip to Machu Picchu.
New ‘Explorers-In-Training’ Programming for Kids
The cruise line also recently revamped its National Geographic Explorers-In-Training programming, which features hands-on activities geared toward younger guests aboard select sailings to Antarctica and Iceland, and all trips to the Galápagos Islands, Alaska, and Baja California. Originally created in 2017, the newly expanded program is meant to keep kids and teens inspired by science, curiosity and conservation as they encounter new landscapes, flora and fauna throughout the cruise.
Activities vary based on the itinerary and destination but generally include opportunities to learn to drive a zodiac, participate in educational games and scavenger hunts, conduct experiments and mark the unique creatures they’ve seen in region-specific field notebooks. At the end of the sailing, their accomplishments are celebrated during a shipboard presentation where they’ll receive a certificate and patch to remember their trip by. While these immersive experiences—led by some of National Geographic’s best photographers, naturalists, undersea specialists and certified field educators—are intended for children and teens, all ages are invited to participate.
What to Know Before You Go
Instead of following a set schedule, National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions sailings are more fluid, with loose itineraries based on daily traffic within Galápagos National Park. You’ll be given a rough idea of the types of activities you’ll be doing ahead of time so you know what to pack, and once onboard, the details of the next day’s plans are shared during nightly presentations by expedition leaders. That way, everyone is prepared and with the Galápagos National Park Service directing ship traffic, the UNESCO World Heritage site doesn’t get too overwhelmed by visitors. This type of flexibility also gives ship captains the ability to veer slightly off schedule and turn the vessel around if, for instance, a blue whale is spotted and the team of onboard naturalists wants to turn the rare sighting into an educational moment.
Itineraries for the cruise line’s two new ships are packed with only-in-Galápagos experiences like visits to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, epic hikes on lava fields, and scenic nature walks through endemic bird habitats. You’ll also have many, many chances to swim alongside Galápagos sea lions and penguins, view blue-footed boobies from a zodiac and see other rare creatures—like Galápagos marine iguanas—in the wild. Remember to pack a good pair of waterproof hiking sandals for wet landings, hiking boots for dry landings, reef-safe sunscreen, and your best camera or a new Go-Pro for underwater videos. Pack plenty of “Expedition Chic” attire like lightweight khaki pants and hiking shirts to avoid getting sunburned—you’ll be sailing along the equator, after all, and the sun is strong.
While the total cost of your Galápagos cruise aboard either of the two new ships doesn’t include international airfare, gratuities or spa services, it does cover all your meals and beverages, educational presentations by National Geographic photographers and naturalists, access to kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, shore excursions aboard zodiacs and use of snorkeling equipment (masks, fins, and shorty wetsuits—bring a full-body diving skin to wear under it if you’re wary of swimming in cooler waters). Cruise fares also include domestic flights to Baltra Island (GPS) from Guayaquil (GYE) or Quito (UIO), two nights’ accommodations in either city (one before your sailing and one after), port taxes, the Galápagos Islands National Park entrance fee ($200 per adult, $100 per child) and the Tourist Transit Card fee ($20 per person). Pre- and post-cruise extensions are also available if you want to spend more time exploring Ecuador.
All details and policies mentioned were accurate as of press time.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/kaeliconforti/
Anchored in Academy Bay, the two new ships were joined by their sibling vessels, National Geographic Islander II and National Geographic Endeavour II. Onboard the Gemini, the crew were joined by several members of Lindblad Expeditions’ executive team, including CEO Natalya Leahy and Interim Chief Maritime Officer, Rear Admiral Keith Taylor, plus several local partners, community members and their families.
“Today, we celebrate not just an event, we’re celebrating a story that started in February 1967, when Lars-Eric Lindblad led the very first non-scientific expedition to the Galápagos Islands,” said Leahy. “Today’s naming is done in honor of the Galápagos community. We will continue our hard work right by your side and never forget that we are just visitors to your home.”
Two New Ships: Gemini and Delfina
Designed to hold just 48 guests in its 27 outward-facing staterooms, National Geographic Gemini strikes a perfect balance between small-ship and large-ship cruising, with plenty of activities, space to stretch out on the deck and enough peace to relax in the library or lounge. Ideal for intimate group sailings, National Geographic Delfina holds just 16 guests in its eight artfully designed guest rooms, all of which provide access to an outer deck or private balcony.
Both ships come equipped with a whirlpool hot tub to unwind in after a long day of sightseeing, and you can expect educational talks by onboard naturalists and an elegant dining experience featuring locally sourced food and wine. To cut down on food waste, passengers are encouraged to note their dinner preferences ahead of time, while coffee, tea, and tasty Ecuadorian snacks are available 24/7 in the lounge, just in case.
You can experience the Gemini on the 10-day Exploring Galápagos sailing (from $5,556 per person) or the Delfina during the 10-day Galápagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage itinerary (from $7,900 per person). Both trips also offer a longer 16-day version that adds time in Peru and a trip to Machu Picchu.
New ‘Explorers-In-Training’ Programming for Kids
The cruise line also recently revamped its National Geographic Explorers-In-Training programming, which features hands-on activities geared toward younger guests aboard select sailings to Antarctica and Iceland, and all trips to the Galápagos Islands, Alaska, and Baja California. Originally created in 2017, the newly expanded program is meant to keep kids and teens inspired by science, curiosity and conservation as they encounter new landscapes, flora and fauna throughout the cruise.
Activities vary based on the itinerary and destination but generally include opportunities to learn to drive a zodiac, participate in educational games and scavenger hunts, conduct experiments and mark the unique creatures they’ve seen in region-specific field notebooks. At the end of the sailing, their accomplishments are celebrated during a shipboard presentation where they’ll receive a certificate and patch to remember their trip by. While these immersive experiences—led by some of National Geographic’s best photographers, naturalists, undersea specialists and certified field educators—are intended for children and teens, all ages are invited to participate.
What to Know Before You Go
Instead of following a set schedule, National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions sailings are more fluid, with loose itineraries based on daily traffic within Galápagos National Park. You’ll be given a rough idea of the types of activities you’ll be doing ahead of time so you know what to pack, and once onboard, the details of the next day’s plans are shared during nightly presentations by expedition leaders. That way, everyone is prepared and with the Galápagos National Park Service directing ship traffic, the UNESCO World Heritage site doesn’t get too overwhelmed by visitors. This type of flexibility also gives ship captains the ability to veer slightly off schedule and turn the vessel around if, for instance, a blue whale is spotted and the team of onboard naturalists wants to turn the rare sighting into an educational moment.
Itineraries for the cruise line’s two new ships are packed with only-in-Galápagos experiences like visits to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, epic hikes on lava fields, and scenic nature walks through endemic bird habitats. You’ll also have many, many chances to swim alongside Galápagos sea lions and penguins, view blue-footed boobies from a zodiac and see other rare creatures—like Galápagos marine iguanas—in the wild. Remember to pack a good pair of waterproof hiking sandals for wet landings, hiking boots for dry landings, reef-safe sunscreen, and your best camera or a new Go-Pro for underwater videos. Pack plenty of “Expedition Chic” attire like lightweight khaki pants and hiking shirts to avoid getting sunburned—you’ll be sailing along the equator, after all, and the sun is strong.
While the total cost of your Galápagos cruise aboard either of the two new ships doesn’t include international airfare, gratuities or spa services, it does cover all your meals and beverages, educational presentations by National Geographic photographers and naturalists, access to kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, shore excursions aboard zodiacs and use of snorkeling equipment (masks, fins, and shorty wetsuits—bring a full-body diving skin to wear under it if you’re wary of swimming in cooler waters). Cruise fares also include domestic flights to Baltra Island (GPS) from Guayaquil (GYE) or Quito (UIO), two nights’ accommodations in either city (one before your sailing and one after), port taxes, the Galápagos Islands National Park entrance fee ($200 per adult, $100 per child) and the Tourist Transit Card fee ($20 per person). Pre- and post-cruise extensions are also available if you want to spend more time exploring Ecuador.
All details and policies mentioned were accurate as of press time.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/kaeliconforti/
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Archaeologists In Mexico Discover Long-Lost City Inhabited By Maya Rebels Who Resisted The Spanish Conquest
After Spanish troops seized their capital, the Lacandon Ch’ol established a new settlement called Sac Balam, or the “Land of the White Jaguar”
To pinpoint the likely location of Sac Balam, archaeologists plugged data from historical records into a predictive model built with ArcGIS Pro. Josuhé Lozada Toledo / CINAH Chiapas
In the dense jungles of Chiapas, Mexico, archaeologists have uncovered the long-lost city of Sac Balam, or the “Land of the White Jaguar,” a stronghold of the Lacandon Ch’ol, a Maya group who resisted Spanish conquest for more than a century. Spanish forces seized the city in 1695, but by 1721, it had been abandoned.
Archaeologists Brent Woodfill and Yuko Shiratori collaborated with Josuhé Lozada Toledo, of Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), to pinpoint the likely location of Sac Balam.
The researchers combed through 17th-century Spanish chronicles for clues, including a letter by Spanish friar Diego de Rivas, who recalled reaching the Maya settlement after a treacherous four-day journey through the jungle and a two-day canoe trip along the Lacantún River. Lozada Toledo then fed this historical information into a predictive model built with the digital mapping tool ArcGIS Pro, factoring in data on the region’s terrain, vegetation and waterways, as well as estimates of colonial-era travel speeds.
“By combining all these variables, I was able to make the proposal on the map and get an approximate range of where [Sac Balam] could be located,” says Lozada Toledo in an INAH statement.
The model led the archaeologists to the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve, near the Jataté and Ixcán Rivers along the Mexico-Guatemala border. There, they found stone structures, obsidian tools, ceramics and the ruins of a small Spanish church—physical evidence that matched the Maya stronghold described in colonial documents, Lozada Toledo tells Milenio’s Leticia Sánchez Medel.
Established after the Spanish conquered the Lacandon Ch’ol capital, Lakam Tun (“Great Rock”), in 1586, Sac Balam became a refuge for Maya rebels determined to remain independent. The Spanish tried and failed to find the community, only succeeding when the leader of a different Maya group offered to escort Catholic priests hoping to convert the Lacandon Ch’ol to the hidden city. “The Lacandon had been trading with but also attacking and raiding Spanish-allied Maya towns for decades, and perhaps the leader had had enough,” wrote Science magazine’s Lizzie Wade in 2019.
Initial attempts at diplomacy faltered after several Lacandon leaders who had traveled to Guatemala to meet with Spanish authorities contracted an illness and died. Negotiations broke down, and in early 1695, Spanish troops aided by Maya allies occupied Sac Balam without needing to engage in battle. The Spanish renamed the city Our Lady of Sorrows.
Miramar Lake in the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve Josuhé Lozada Toledo / CINAH Chiapas
Sac Balam is more than an archaeological find. It represents an opportunity to learn about and honor the lives of Indigenous individuals who resisted until their last breath, then “were erased and exterminated from official history, a people who preferred to hide in the jungle and not be conquered,” Lozada Toledo tells Milenio.
“This discovery enriches the history of Chiapas and shows the dignity, identity and strength of the Native groups,” he adds. “It also highlights the archaeology of ordinary people, their customs, their daily lives and their struggle.”
Sac Balam’s rediscovery sheds light on a broader pattern of Maya resistance. In the early 16th century, Maya city-states functioned independently, with shifting alliances and rivalries, much like ancient Greece. “Because the Maya were never centralized, it’s very hard to conquer entire areas,” Maxine Oland, an archaeologist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst who was not involved in the new research, told Science magazine in 2019.
The Spanish conquest of Maya territory was not a sweeping victory, but rather a slow, city-by-city effort that left patches of independent Maya communities scattered across the jungle. Sac Balam was the second-to-last Maya capital to resist Spanish control; Nojpeten, capital of the Itza Maya people, fell in 1697.
The research team has already completed two field seasons at the Sac Balam site, conducting preliminary excavations to determine its period of occupation. Future plans include using lidar technology to map the area beneath the jungle canopy and locate hidden structures, in addition to publishing the predictive model in the journal Chicomoztoc. The archaeologists also hope to uncover metal artifacts that could offer clues about Maya trade networks.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/author/aurora-martinez/
In the dense jungles of Chiapas, Mexico, archaeologists have uncovered the long-lost city of Sac Balam, or the “Land of the White Jaguar,” a stronghold of the Lacandon Ch’ol, a Maya group who resisted Spanish conquest for more than a century. Spanish forces seized the city in 1695, but by 1721, it had been abandoned.
Archaeologists Brent Woodfill and Yuko Shiratori collaborated with Josuhé Lozada Toledo, of Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), to pinpoint the likely location of Sac Balam.
The researchers combed through 17th-century Spanish chronicles for clues, including a letter by Spanish friar Diego de Rivas, who recalled reaching the Maya settlement after a treacherous four-day journey through the jungle and a two-day canoe trip along the Lacantún River. Lozada Toledo then fed this historical information into a predictive model built with the digital mapping tool ArcGIS Pro, factoring in data on the region’s terrain, vegetation and waterways, as well as estimates of colonial-era travel speeds.
“By combining all these variables, I was able to make the proposal on the map and get an approximate range of where [Sac Balam] could be located,” says Lozada Toledo in an INAH statement.
The model led the archaeologists to the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve, near the Jataté and Ixcán Rivers along the Mexico-Guatemala border. There, they found stone structures, obsidian tools, ceramics and the ruins of a small Spanish church—physical evidence that matched the Maya stronghold described in colonial documents, Lozada Toledo tells Milenio’s Leticia Sánchez Medel.
Established after the Spanish conquered the Lacandon Ch’ol capital, Lakam Tun (“Great Rock”), in 1586, Sac Balam became a refuge for Maya rebels determined to remain independent. The Spanish tried and failed to find the community, only succeeding when the leader of a different Maya group offered to escort Catholic priests hoping to convert the Lacandon Ch’ol to the hidden city. “The Lacandon had been trading with but also attacking and raiding Spanish-allied Maya towns for decades, and perhaps the leader had had enough,” wrote Science magazine’s Lizzie Wade in 2019.
Initial attempts at diplomacy faltered after several Lacandon leaders who had traveled to Guatemala to meet with Spanish authorities contracted an illness and died. Negotiations broke down, and in early 1695, Spanish troops aided by Maya allies occupied Sac Balam without needing to engage in battle. The Spanish renamed the city Our Lady of Sorrows.
Sac Balam is more than an archaeological find. It represents an opportunity to learn about and honor the lives of Indigenous individuals who resisted until their last breath, then “were erased and exterminated from official history, a people who preferred to hide in the jungle and not be conquered,” Lozada Toledo tells Milenio.
“This discovery enriches the history of Chiapas and shows the dignity, identity and strength of the Native groups,” he adds. “It also highlights the archaeology of ordinary people, their customs, their daily lives and their struggle.”
Sac Balam’s rediscovery sheds light on a broader pattern of Maya resistance. In the early 16th century, Maya city-states functioned independently, with shifting alliances and rivalries, much like ancient Greece. “Because the Maya were never centralized, it’s very hard to conquer entire areas,” Maxine Oland, an archaeologist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst who was not involved in the new research, told Science magazine in 2019.
The Spanish conquest of Maya territory was not a sweeping victory, but rather a slow, city-by-city effort that left patches of independent Maya communities scattered across the jungle. Sac Balam was the second-to-last Maya capital to resist Spanish control; Nojpeten, capital of the Itza Maya people, fell in 1697.
The research team has already completed two field seasons at the Sac Balam site, conducting preliminary excavations to determine its period of occupation. Future plans include using lidar technology to map the area beneath the jungle canopy and locate hidden structures, in addition to publishing the predictive model in the journal Chicomoztoc. The archaeologists also hope to uncover metal artifacts that could offer clues about Maya trade networks.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/author/aurora-martinez/
Monday, August 25, 2025
NATPAT Makes Natural Wellness Essentials For Kids With Stick-On Simplicity
NATPAT works with world-class aromatherapists, pediatricians, and bug experts - diving headfirst into the science to pick out top-notch, proven ingredients. Whether it's their buzz-off mosquito stickers or our chill-out bedtime helpers, it's all about the science.
They work with the same top-drawer labs that big names like Disney and Walmart trust. From the drawing board to the final product, keeping kids safe is their number one rule. Their essential oils come straight from family-run farms in Australia.
With millions of stickers heading out each year, they're committed to what's good for the earth – think compostable, biodegradable materials and packaging you can recycle or reuse.
Some of their products include:
The Anti Mosquito Magnet Bundle
BuzzPatch uses a specially formulated essential oil blend. Designed to help keep mosquitoes at bay and provide peace of mind, when used as directed. Pack of 60 assorted colors BuzzPatch mosquito repellent stickers
Using their Grid-Relief Technology, their Itch Relief patches mechanically lift the skin (no chemicals) to drain the lymphatic system which has been injected by the mosquito's saliva that causes the itch. Pack of 30 patches include 10 Pink, 10 Blue, 10 Olive
Home Wellness Kit
The Home Wellness Kit is the guilt free parenting hack you’ve been dreaming of.
WHAT’S IN THE HOME WELLNESS KIT:
24 x SleepyPatch (24 x easy bedtimes)
24 x ZenPatch (24 x melt-down relief)
24 x FocusPatch (24 x less times telling them to focus)
To learn more and where to purchase, please visit: https://www.natpat.com/
They work with the same top-drawer labs that big names like Disney and Walmart trust. From the drawing board to the final product, keeping kids safe is their number one rule. Their essential oils come straight from family-run farms in Australia.
With millions of stickers heading out each year, they're committed to what's good for the earth – think compostable, biodegradable materials and packaging you can recycle or reuse.
Some of their products include:
BuzzPatch uses a specially formulated essential oil blend. Designed to help keep mosquitoes at bay and provide peace of mind, when used as directed. Pack of 60 assorted colors BuzzPatch mosquito repellent stickers
Using their Grid-Relief Technology, their Itch Relief patches mechanically lift the skin (no chemicals) to drain the lymphatic system which has been injected by the mosquito's saliva that causes the itch. Pack of 30 patches include 10 Pink, 10 Blue, 10 Olive
The Home Wellness Kit is the guilt free parenting hack you’ve been dreaming of.
WHAT’S IN THE HOME WELLNESS KIT:
24 x SleepyPatch (24 x easy bedtimes)
24 x ZenPatch (24 x melt-down relief)
24 x FocusPatch (24 x less times telling them to focus)
To learn more and where to purchase, please visit: https://www.natpat.com/
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Green, White, And Red, The Colors Of September: Mexican Independence Day Is The Time To Embrace Heritage And Soul
Communities across Mexico are preparing for a nationwide celebration to mark the 215th anniversary of the country’s independence on Sept. 16, commemorating the historic start of the movement in 1810 that led to freedom from Spanish rule in 1821.
The centerpiece of the annual festivities is the Grito de Dolores — or “Cry of Dolores” — a reenactment of Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla legendary call to arms, which will take place the night of September15. President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo will deliver the traditional cry from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City’s Zócalo, accompanied by military honors, live music, fireworks and a dazzling light display. As the first woman president to do so, it will be a historic reminder of the mothers of the revolution.
“Every September, Mexico transforms into a living tribute to its history and culture. Destinations across the country celebrate to the nines with iconic culinary, dances, religious observances, in short, all things Mexican,” said Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, Mexico’s minister of tourism. “This is a unique time to experience the country’s traditions and take part in the many celebrations of the patriotic spirit.”
A Month Full of Color, Culture and Cuisine
Throughout September, cities and towns across the country are adorned in green, white and red — the colors of the Mexican flag. Celebrations include parades, street festivals, folk dancing and an abundance of traditional cuisine.
In Dolores Hidalgo (Guanajuato), the town where the independence movement began, crowds gather at the original church where Hidalgo rang the bell that signaled the start of the rebellion. In cities like Puebla, Guadalajara and Oaxaca, visitors can enjoy mariachi concerts, artisan markets and regional cultural displays.
Mexico City comes alive each year during the season with historic buildings across the city being illuminated with dazzling lights in green, white and red, while streets echo with traditional music, the sounds of mariachi and fireworks lighting up the night sky. Mexico City transforms into a national stage of pride and unity.
The celebrations reach their peak on the night of Sept.15, when thousands gather in the Zócalo, the city’s main square, towitness the iconic “Grito de Dolores” reenactment. Delivered from thebalcony of the National Palace by the President of Mexico, the emotionalcall — "¡Viva México!" — is met with roaring cheers and applause fromthe crowd.
For those looking to explore beyond the capital, a visit to the nearby Pyramids of Teotihuacan offers a powerful journey into Mexico’s ancient past. Located just an hour outside the city, the vast archaeological site — home to the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon —provides a striking contrast to the modern-day celebrations, highlighting the deep historical roots of Mexican identity.
Travelers looking to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day with a coastal twist, head to the Pacific shores of Nayarit. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic beaches and strong cultural roots, Nayarit offers a vibrant yet laid-back setting to honor Día de la Independencia. From the coastal towns north of Puerto Vallarta — including Sayulita, San Pancho and Punta de Mita — to colorful inland villages, the region comes alive each September with local parades, traditional dance performances, mariachi music and fireworks over the ocean.
Food also plays a central role in the festivities. Oneseasonal favorite is chiles en nogada — poblano chiles stuffed with meatand fruit, topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds, representingthe colors of the flag. Other staples include pozole, tamales, tostadas,and festive beverages like aguas frescas, Tequila, pulque and mezcal.
A Historic and Symbolic Cry
The Grito de Dolores dates to the early hours of Sept. 16,1810, when Father Hidalgo rang the church bell in Dolores (now Dolores Hidalgo,Guanajuato), urging Mexicans to rise against colonial rule. His cry marked thebeginning of the War of Independence.
Today, the Grito is reenacted each year at 11 p.m. on Sept.15 in plazas, city halls and embassies around the world. Local leaders take to balconies and stages to deliver the iconic call:
“¡Mexicanos! ¡Vivan los héroes que nos dieron patria y libertad! ¡Viva Hidalgo! ¡Viva Morelos! ¡Viva Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez! ¡Viva Allende! ¡Viva la independencia nacional! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México!”
The ceremony is followed by fireworks, live music and late-night celebrations in streets and homes across the country.
Why Visit Mexico in September?
With cooler weather, festive energy and a deeper look intonational identity, September is an ideal time for cultural tourism in Mexico. From colonial towns to coastal cities, travelers can experience firsthand the pride and passion that define the country’s most important holiday.
For more information, visit https://visitmexico.com/ ~ https://www.gob.mx/sectur
The centerpiece of the annual festivities is the Grito de Dolores — or “Cry of Dolores” — a reenactment of Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla legendary call to arms, which will take place the night of September15. President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo will deliver the traditional cry from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City’s Zócalo, accompanied by military honors, live music, fireworks and a dazzling light display. As the first woman president to do so, it will be a historic reminder of the mothers of the revolution.
“Every September, Mexico transforms into a living tribute to its history and culture. Destinations across the country celebrate to the nines with iconic culinary, dances, religious observances, in short, all things Mexican,” said Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, Mexico’s minister of tourism. “This is a unique time to experience the country’s traditions and take part in the many celebrations of the patriotic spirit.”
A Month Full of Color, Culture and Cuisine
Throughout September, cities and towns across the country are adorned in green, white and red — the colors of the Mexican flag. Celebrations include parades, street festivals, folk dancing and an abundance of traditional cuisine.
In Dolores Hidalgo (Guanajuato), the town where the independence movement began, crowds gather at the original church where Hidalgo rang the bell that signaled the start of the rebellion. In cities like Puebla, Guadalajara and Oaxaca, visitors can enjoy mariachi concerts, artisan markets and regional cultural displays.
Mexico City comes alive each year during the season with historic buildings across the city being illuminated with dazzling lights in green, white and red, while streets echo with traditional music, the sounds of mariachi and fireworks lighting up the night sky. Mexico City transforms into a national stage of pride and unity.
The celebrations reach their peak on the night of Sept.15, when thousands gather in the Zócalo, the city’s main square, towitness the iconic “Grito de Dolores” reenactment. Delivered from thebalcony of the National Palace by the President of Mexico, the emotionalcall — "¡Viva México!" — is met with roaring cheers and applause fromthe crowd.
For those looking to explore beyond the capital, a visit to the nearby Pyramids of Teotihuacan offers a powerful journey into Mexico’s ancient past. Located just an hour outside the city, the vast archaeological site — home to the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon —provides a striking contrast to the modern-day celebrations, highlighting the deep historical roots of Mexican identity.
Travelers looking to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day with a coastal twist, head to the Pacific shores of Nayarit. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic beaches and strong cultural roots, Nayarit offers a vibrant yet laid-back setting to honor Día de la Independencia. From the coastal towns north of Puerto Vallarta — including Sayulita, San Pancho and Punta de Mita — to colorful inland villages, the region comes alive each September with local parades, traditional dance performances, mariachi music and fireworks over the ocean.
Food also plays a central role in the festivities. Oneseasonal favorite is chiles en nogada — poblano chiles stuffed with meatand fruit, topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds, representingthe colors of the flag. Other staples include pozole, tamales, tostadas,and festive beverages like aguas frescas, Tequila, pulque and mezcal.
A Historic and Symbolic Cry
The Grito de Dolores dates to the early hours of Sept. 16,1810, when Father Hidalgo rang the church bell in Dolores (now Dolores Hidalgo,Guanajuato), urging Mexicans to rise against colonial rule. His cry marked thebeginning of the War of Independence.
Today, the Grito is reenacted each year at 11 p.m. on Sept.15 in plazas, city halls and embassies around the world. Local leaders take to balconies and stages to deliver the iconic call:
“¡Mexicanos! ¡Vivan los héroes que nos dieron patria y libertad! ¡Viva Hidalgo! ¡Viva Morelos! ¡Viva Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez! ¡Viva Allende! ¡Viva la independencia nacional! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México!”
The ceremony is followed by fireworks, live music and late-night celebrations in streets and homes across the country.
Why Visit Mexico in September?
With cooler weather, festive energy and a deeper look intonational identity, September is an ideal time for cultural tourism in Mexico. From colonial towns to coastal cities, travelers can experience firsthand the pride and passion that define the country’s most important holiday.
For more information, visit https://visitmexico.com/ ~ https://www.gob.mx/sectur
Saturday, August 23, 2025
On The Go While On The Fly: Provisions By Admirals Club Lounge Opens At Charlotte Douglas International Airport
American Airlines continues to enhance the customer experience for Admirals Club® customers with the grand opening of the Provisions by Admirals Club℠ lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). This innovative grab-and-go lounge concept is a first-of-its-kind space for American at one of its largest hubs.
Located in Concourse A next to gate A1, the space is designed for speed, simplicity and convenience. Quick access to personalized service, fresh food and beverage options allow customers to come and go with ease whether they’re looking for a quick snack or help with their travel journey.
“We’re excited to open this new lounge space for our customers at CLT,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “Millions of customers travel through CLT on American every year and the Provisions by Admirals Club℠ lounge is focused on providing those customers with an easy and convenient solution during their travel journey.”
The space offers a light grab-and-go food concept allowing guests to select prepackaged to-go items for travel ease.
Breakfast, served from 6:15 to 11 a.m. daily, features light bites including pastries, snack mixes, yogurt and fruit options, along with more substantial breakfast meal boxes. All day offerings, served from 11 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. daily, feature a mix of salty snacks, sweet treats and filling meal boxes. Vegetarian options are available at all hours. A beverage station allows for travelers to grab canned and bottled beverages to take on their trip. Coffee and tea are also available.
Access to the Provisions by Admirals Club℠ lounge follows the same policies as traditional Admirals Club® locations.
Domestic travelers can access the Admirals Club® lounge through an Admirals Club® membership, qualifying oneworld® status or the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive credit card. Eligible AAdvantage® status members can access the Admirals Club® lounge when traveling on qualifying international flights.
This reimagined space gives customers access to a more efficient and convenient lounge experience, designed for customers on the move.
About American Airlines Group
As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com
Located in Concourse A next to gate A1, the space is designed for speed, simplicity and convenience. Quick access to personalized service, fresh food and beverage options allow customers to come and go with ease whether they’re looking for a quick snack or help with their travel journey.
“We’re excited to open this new lounge space for our customers at CLT,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “Millions of customers travel through CLT on American every year and the Provisions by Admirals Club℠ lounge is focused on providing those customers with an easy and convenient solution during their travel journey.”
The space offers a light grab-and-go food concept allowing guests to select prepackaged to-go items for travel ease.
Breakfast, served from 6:15 to 11 a.m. daily, features light bites including pastries, snack mixes, yogurt and fruit options, along with more substantial breakfast meal boxes. All day offerings, served from 11 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. daily, feature a mix of salty snacks, sweet treats and filling meal boxes. Vegetarian options are available at all hours. A beverage station allows for travelers to grab canned and bottled beverages to take on their trip. Coffee and tea are also available.
Access to the Provisions by Admirals Club℠ lounge follows the same policies as traditional Admirals Club® locations.
Domestic travelers can access the Admirals Club® lounge through an Admirals Club® membership, qualifying oneworld® status or the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive credit card. Eligible AAdvantage® status members can access the Admirals Club® lounge when traveling on qualifying international flights.
This reimagined space gives customers access to a more efficient and convenient lounge experience, designed for customers on the move.
About American Airlines Group
As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com
Friday, August 22, 2025
New York Cultural Giants Bring Major Art Installations To JFK's New Terminal
Four of New York’s most iconic museums are joining forces to transform JFK’s Terminal 6 into a global arts hub, with installations by MoMA, the Met, Lincoln Center, and the American Museum of Natural History.
Copyright Courtesy of JFK Millennium Partners and The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
When John F. Kennedy International Airport unveils its new $4.2 billion Terminal 6, visitors won’t just be greeted by sleek gates and high-tech screens – they’ll walk straight into a mini New York arts district.
As reported by Artnet, four of the city’s most renowned cultural institutions – the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts – are teaming up to showcase major installations inside the terminal.
The artworks, all on loan from each institution’s permanent collection, will be displayed in the international arrivals corridor. It’s part of a wider effort to make Terminal 6 not just a place to pass through – but a cultural experience in its own right.
Rendering of the arrivals area in Terminal 6 at JFK. Courtesy of JFK Millennium Partners and The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
“Thanks to the collaboration with four of New York’s premier cultural institutions, Terminal 6 will offer arriving visitors from around the world a unique New York experience before they leave the terminal,” said Port Authority executive director Rick Cotton.
In addition to these pieces, the terminal will feature 19 permanent, site-specific installations curated by Public Art Fund, plus a rotating display of local work selected by Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
Lincoln Center is contributing a 140-foot mural celebrating its work across music, dance, theatre and opera. MoMA has partnered with artist Yoko Ono on a piece inspired by her 2019 work PEACE is POWER. The American Museum of Natural History will create a display drawing from its scientific collections, while the Met’s installation nods to its diverse collection, showcasing 5,000 years of global art.The effort is led by architect Stanis Smith and will also feature 19 site-specific permanent installations curated by Public Art Fund and rotating local artworks curated by Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City Hugo Schneider / CC licence
“We’re honoured to collaborate with such prestigious institutions – icons in the global arts community and deeply rooted in the spirit of New York City,” said Steve Thody, CEO of JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), which is leading the project with the Port Authority. “Each installation will reflect and celebrate the vibrant cultural heartbeat of New York as we welcome the world to JFK and beyond.”
The effort is led by architect Stanis Smith and will also feature 19 site-specific permanent installations curated by Public Art Fund and rotating local artworks curated by Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
The 1.2 million-square-foot terminal will feature 10 gates and is expected to create around 4,000 jobs. Airlines including JetBlue, Lufthansa, Swiss, ANA, Avianca, and Cathay Pacific will operate from the terminal. Cotton noted that the terminal will boast “state-of-the-art architecture, cutting-edge technology and iconic, [and] locally inspired dining and shopping."
The first six gates are set to open later this year, with full completion expected by 2028.
While JFK’s new terminal celebrates New York’s artistic spirit, the wider US cultural landscape faces increasing political scrutiny.
A letter sent by the White House last week ordered several US museums to align their content with Donald Trump’s interpretation of American history.
The move follows Trump’s signing of an executive order in March titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” which accused the Smithsonian of coming under the influence of a “divisive, race-centered ideology” and called upon it to “remove improper ideology” from the institution's museums.
In February, Trump removed the Kennedy Center’s Board of Trustees and replaced them with his supporters. He even named himself chairman and vowed to end events featuring performers in drag, indicating he would take on a larger role in dictating the institution's programming schedule.
https://www.euronews.com/profiles/3106
When John F. Kennedy International Airport unveils its new $4.2 billion Terminal 6, visitors won’t just be greeted by sleek gates and high-tech screens – they’ll walk straight into a mini New York arts district.
As reported by Artnet, four of the city’s most renowned cultural institutions – the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts – are teaming up to showcase major installations inside the terminal.
The artworks, all on loan from each institution’s permanent collection, will be displayed in the international arrivals corridor. It’s part of a wider effort to make Terminal 6 not just a place to pass through – but a cultural experience in its own right.
“Thanks to the collaboration with four of New York’s premier cultural institutions, Terminal 6 will offer arriving visitors from around the world a unique New York experience before they leave the terminal,” said Port Authority executive director Rick Cotton.
In addition to these pieces, the terminal will feature 19 permanent, site-specific installations curated by Public Art Fund, plus a rotating display of local work selected by Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
Lincoln Center is contributing a 140-foot mural celebrating its work across music, dance, theatre and opera. MoMA has partnered with artist Yoko Ono on a piece inspired by her 2019 work PEACE is POWER. The American Museum of Natural History will create a display drawing from its scientific collections, while the Met’s installation nods to its diverse collection, showcasing 5,000 years of global art.The effort is led by architect Stanis Smith and will also feature 19 site-specific permanent installations curated by Public Art Fund and rotating local artworks curated by Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
“We’re honoured to collaborate with such prestigious institutions – icons in the global arts community and deeply rooted in the spirit of New York City,” said Steve Thody, CEO of JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), which is leading the project with the Port Authority. “Each installation will reflect and celebrate the vibrant cultural heartbeat of New York as we welcome the world to JFK and beyond.”
The effort is led by architect Stanis Smith and will also feature 19 site-specific permanent installations curated by Public Art Fund and rotating local artworks curated by Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
The 1.2 million-square-foot terminal will feature 10 gates and is expected to create around 4,000 jobs. Airlines including JetBlue, Lufthansa, Swiss, ANA, Avianca, and Cathay Pacific will operate from the terminal. Cotton noted that the terminal will boast “state-of-the-art architecture, cutting-edge technology and iconic, [and] locally inspired dining and shopping."
The first six gates are set to open later this year, with full completion expected by 2028.
While JFK’s new terminal celebrates New York’s artistic spirit, the wider US cultural landscape faces increasing political scrutiny.
A letter sent by the White House last week ordered several US museums to align their content with Donald Trump’s interpretation of American history.
The move follows Trump’s signing of an executive order in March titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” which accused the Smithsonian of coming under the influence of a “divisive, race-centered ideology” and called upon it to “remove improper ideology” from the institution's museums.
In February, Trump removed the Kennedy Center’s Board of Trustees and replaced them with his supporters. He even named himself chairman and vowed to end events featuring performers in drag, indicating he would take on a larger role in dictating the institution's programming schedule.
https://www.euronews.com/profiles/3106
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Plan To Build World’s Longest Suspension Bridge Finally Signed Off After 2,000 Years Connecting Sicily And Mainland Italy
More than $15 billion will be spent on the construction of the bridge - which is hoped will tackle organized crime in the area.
The world's longest suspension bridge will connect Sicily with mainland Italy (Stretto Di Messina)
The project is set to cost a staggering $15.7 billion and will connect two popular holiday destinations that Americans and Brits frequent often, and it is hoped its construction will tackle organized crime in the area.
The plan, which has finally been signed off, will see the bridge stretch 2.05 miles over Messina Strait, the body of water separating Sicily from mainland Italy, with two 1,300-foot high towers holding it up.
Dubbed the 'Messina Bridge', it will include two railway lines in the middle of the structure and three lanes of traffic on either side of it - with completion earmarked for between 2032 and 2033.
Researchers aim to use technology so that the bridge could withstand earthquakes - with its location being on top of one of the most seismically active areas in the Mediterranean.
"We enjoy difficult challenges when they make sense," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Wednesday (August 6).
However, these challenges aren't just geological - no, there's a fear in Italy that the mafia could interfere with plans as has happened previously.
A number of Italian officials have attempted to launch the project but each time it has been scuppered due to a either the mafia's involvement, damage to the environment or due to the amount it would cost to build it.
In fact, the idea of building a bridge over the strait first floated around in 252 BC, with Consul Metellus is believed to have connected boats and barrels to transport war elephants between Sicily and mainland Italy.
Well, ancient Rome would be happy to hear that these plans are now materialising.
As for the mafia's involvement, the Italian government hope that construction of a bridge between the island of Sicily and the region of Calabria will reduce the mafia's influence in the area, as it will bring about more jobs and greater economic opportunities.
Currently, the only way to cross the strait is by ferry - a journey that takes half an hour.
While the idea of a bridge is believed to have been first thought up 2,276 years ago, modern plans were drawn up more than 50 years ago.
Speaking on the Messina Bridge project, Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini said: "The bridge will bring work, wealth, beauty, and will save tons of CO2 in the air, making it one of the greenest bridges in the world."
https://www.unilad.com/author/joe-yates
The project is set to cost a staggering $15.7 billion and will connect two popular holiday destinations that Americans and Brits frequent often, and it is hoped its construction will tackle organized crime in the area.
The plan, which has finally been signed off, will see the bridge stretch 2.05 miles over Messina Strait, the body of water separating Sicily from mainland Italy, with two 1,300-foot high towers holding it up.
Dubbed the 'Messina Bridge', it will include two railway lines in the middle of the structure and three lanes of traffic on either side of it - with completion earmarked for between 2032 and 2033.
Researchers aim to use technology so that the bridge could withstand earthquakes - with its location being on top of one of the most seismically active areas in the Mediterranean.
"We enjoy difficult challenges when they make sense," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Wednesday (August 6).
However, these challenges aren't just geological - no, there's a fear in Italy that the mafia could interfere with plans as has happened previously.
A number of Italian officials have attempted to launch the project but each time it has been scuppered due to a either the mafia's involvement, damage to the environment or due to the amount it would cost to build it.
In fact, the idea of building a bridge over the strait first floated around in 252 BC, with Consul Metellus is believed to have connected boats and barrels to transport war elephants between Sicily and mainland Italy.
Well, ancient Rome would be happy to hear that these plans are now materialising.
As for the mafia's involvement, the Italian government hope that construction of a bridge between the island of Sicily and the region of Calabria will reduce the mafia's influence in the area, as it will bring about more jobs and greater economic opportunities.
Currently, the only way to cross the strait is by ferry - a journey that takes half an hour.
While the idea of a bridge is believed to have been first thought up 2,276 years ago, modern plans were drawn up more than 50 years ago.
Speaking on the Messina Bridge project, Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini said: "The bridge will bring work, wealth, beauty, and will save tons of CO2 in the air, making it one of the greenest bridges in the world."
https://www.unilad.com/author/joe-yates
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Qatar Airways Is Opening Its First U.S. Lounge At The New Terminal One at JFK
Qatar Airways, named World’s Best Airline 2025 for a record ninth time by Skytrax, has selected The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as its new home in New York. The award-winning carrier will move its operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026 and unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge – the airline’s first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States.
The airline’s move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport is in line with Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience, and reflects the strategic importance of New York City in Qatar Airways’ global network.
Offering efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ exclusive lounge, the new facility will provide an elevated experience featuring premium food and beverage options and best-in-class amenities including VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers.
In partnership with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s modern architecture, light-filled spaces and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and relaxing customer journey that complements Qatar Airways’ world-renowned onboard service.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We, at Qatar Airways, look forward to launching our operations at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first-ever exclusive lounge in the US. Our new state-of-the-art lounge will provide an enhanced experience at each touchpoint and complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience. From dedicated airport transfers to VIP check-in to the finest of retail and dining options, premium passengers will be offered the World’s Best service at New Terminal One.
“Our move demonstrates the evolution of Qatar Airways’ long-standing commitment to connecting global travellers to New York and expanding our services in the destination integral to our network in the US.”
The New Terminal One CEO, Jennifer Aument, said: “We thank the Qatar Airways team for their confidence in us as we begin this exciting new chapter together at JFK. As an airline long synonymous with excellence, Qatar Airways’ decision to partner with the New Terminal One reaffirms the strong value we offer international carriers seeking to grow their presence in New York.”
The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernisation and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.
Qatar Airways launched operations in New York in 2008 at Terminal 8 at JFK Airport. The airline’s network in the US spans 11 destinations to serve more than 3 million passengers annually. With 18 weekly flights from JFK, Qatar Airways connects travellers from the US to over 170 destinations worldwide through its home and hub – Doha’s award-winning Hamad International Airport.
The airline’s move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport is in line with Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience, and reflects the strategic importance of New York City in Qatar Airways’ global network.
Offering efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ exclusive lounge, the new facility will provide an elevated experience featuring premium food and beverage options and best-in-class amenities including VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers.
In partnership with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s modern architecture, light-filled spaces and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and relaxing customer journey that complements Qatar Airways’ world-renowned onboard service.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We, at Qatar Airways, look forward to launching our operations at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first-ever exclusive lounge in the US. Our new state-of-the-art lounge will provide an enhanced experience at each touchpoint and complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience. From dedicated airport transfers to VIP check-in to the finest of retail and dining options, premium passengers will be offered the World’s Best service at New Terminal One.
“Our move demonstrates the evolution of Qatar Airways’ long-standing commitment to connecting global travellers to New York and expanding our services in the destination integral to our network in the US.”
The New Terminal One CEO, Jennifer Aument, said: “We thank the Qatar Airways team for their confidence in us as we begin this exciting new chapter together at JFK. As an airline long synonymous with excellence, Qatar Airways’ decision to partner with the New Terminal One reaffirms the strong value we offer international carriers seeking to grow their presence in New York.”
The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernisation and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.
Qatar Airways launched operations in New York in 2008 at Terminal 8 at JFK Airport. The airline’s network in the US spans 11 destinations to serve more than 3 million passengers annually. With 18 weekly flights from JFK, Qatar Airways connects travellers from the US to over 170 destinations worldwide through its home and hub – Doha’s award-winning Hamad International Airport.
Museum Design Work Starts For Historic SS United States, Destined To Become Florida’s Giant Artificial Reef
After spending decades docked in South Philadelphia, the historic SS United States is officially in its final chapter. Design is now underway for a highly anticipated new museum that will celebrate the legacy of "America's Flagship," while the vessel itself is being prepared in Alabama to become the world's largest artificial reef.
The project will feature some of the iconic ocean liner's most famous components, including its towering, six-story funnels.
What's next:
The ship, currently docked in Mobile, Alabama, is being prepared for deployment as an artificial reef off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The funnels will be removed to be a dramatic centerpiece for the new land-based museum.
The SS United States Conservancy has hired Thinc Design, LMN Architects, and engineering firm Buro Happold to guide the initial planning and development. The museum will honor the ship's mid-century modern design and innovative technology. The project will also feature thousands of artifacts from the ship, including one of its massive five-bladed propellers and its revolutionary radar mast.
Susan Gibbs, Conservancy president and granddaughter of the SS United States’ designer, spotlighted the vision for the museum.
"We are deeply committed to celebrating the enduring legacy of America’s Flagship, and we have assembled an extraordinary team to help us realize our vision," Gibbs said. "By incorporating iconic components from the historic ocean liner into an architecturally stunning land-based museum, the SS United States will continue to excite and inspire future generations."
Tom Hennes, founder of Thinc Design, shared his excitement for the project.
"We felt a passion for helping tell her remarkable story," Hennes said. "We look forward to designing dynamic, interactive exhibits that create an unforgettable experience for all visitors."
The funnels themselves were the largest ever installed on a ship, each as tall as a six-story building. Unlike other ships' false funnels, both funnels on the SS United States were fully functional, serving two independent engine rooms.
The backstory:
Christened 73 years ago in 1952, the SS United States was once celebrated as a marvel of American engineering. Designed to also serve as a military troop carrier, the ship's most famous achievement came on its maiden voyage when it shattered the transatlantic speed record in both directions. The vessel crossed the Atlantic in just three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes—a time that remains unbeaten by any other ocean liner to this day.
Tugboats helped guide the ship down the Delaware River and into open water in February 2025, where it spent over a week being towed to southern waters. The vessel's unmistakable silhouette was reportedly spotted several times along its journey, with a crew member even sharing a "ghostly" nighttime image of the ship at sea.
https://fox29.com/person/t/tyler-thrasher
Monday, August 18, 2025
Inside The $30 Billion Mega Airport Being Built That Will Be Crowned World's Biggest
The new King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will be the biggest airport in the world when it opens in 2030 - and will serve 120 million passengers every year.
King Salman International Airport in Riyadh is scheduled to open in 2030(Image: Foster and Partners )
Travelers who have journeyed internationally are well aware that some airports are colossal, but a new travel hub under construction in Saudi Arabia might just outshine them all.
Slated for completion in 2030, this airport is projected to cost an estimated $30 billion to construct, and with its six expansive runways and opulent terminal, it's easy to see why.
The King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is set to become the world's largest airport upon its opening. It will cover an impressive 57 square kilometers, with 12 square kilometers allocated for retail space.
Fosters and Partners are the architects behind the airport design, which is predicted to be the equivalent of 14,000 football fields. This new travel hub is also expected to generate 150,000 jobs across the logistics and commercial sectors.
The airport is designed to accommodate 120 million passengers annually, a number that could potentially rise to 185 million by 2050.
In a statement, the Saudi Press Agency said: "The airport project is in line with Saudi Arabia's vision to transform Riyadh to be among the top ten city economies in the world and to support
the growth of Riyadh's population to 15-20 million people by 2030."
Currently, Saudi Arabia already boasts the world's largest airport - Dammam Airport - and is undertaking several ambitious projects as part of its Vision 2030.
Construction has already begun on what will be the world's largest building, also located in Riyadh.
The building will tower at an impressive 1,300 ft high and 1,200 ft wide.
The massive development will also house 104,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, 1 million square feet of office space and 2 million square feet for retail.
A theater and a university will also be located within the building.
https://www.irishstar.com/authors/brigid-brown/
Travelers who have journeyed internationally are well aware that some airports are colossal, but a new travel hub under construction in Saudi Arabia might just outshine them all.
Slated for completion in 2030, this airport is projected to cost an estimated $30 billion to construct, and with its six expansive runways and opulent terminal, it's easy to see why.
The King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is set to become the world's largest airport upon its opening. It will cover an impressive 57 square kilometers, with 12 square kilometers allocated for retail space.
Fosters and Partners are the architects behind the airport design, which is predicted to be the equivalent of 14,000 football fields. This new travel hub is also expected to generate 150,000 jobs across the logistics and commercial sectors.
The airport is designed to accommodate 120 million passengers annually, a number that could potentially rise to 185 million by 2050.
In a statement, the Saudi Press Agency said: "The airport project is in line with Saudi Arabia's vision to transform Riyadh to be among the top ten city economies in the world and to support
the growth of Riyadh's population to 15-20 million people by 2030."
Currently, Saudi Arabia already boasts the world's largest airport - Dammam Airport - and is undertaking several ambitious projects as part of its Vision 2030.
Construction has already begun on what will be the world's largest building, also located in Riyadh.
The building will tower at an impressive 1,300 ft high and 1,200 ft wide.
The massive development will also house 104,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, 1 million square feet of office space and 2 million square feet for retail.
A theater and a university will also be located within the building.
https://www.irishstar.com/authors/brigid-brown/
Sunday, August 17, 2025
Dominican Republic To Add Nearly 15,000 New Hotel Rooms
The Dominican Republic’s hotel industry is experiencing significant growth, with approximately 14,900 new hotel rooms expected to be added over the next three years. This expansion represents an 18% increase in current capacity and involves investments exceeding US$3 billion.
Leaders of the Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores) attribute this surge to the country’s legal stability and strong investor confidence. The average cost per hotel room is estimated at US$200,000. They also emphasized the superior infrastructure and tourism offerings in areas like Casa de Campo, Cap Cana, and Samaná, including high-end second homes owned by wealthy individuals.
The luxury segment continues to expand, with 1,000 upscale rooms set to open in Miches in 2025. Asonahores also highlighted growing diversification in tourism through sports and health-related travel, with top-tier hotel brands increasingly investing in the country.
https://dominicantoday.com/
Leaders of the Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores) attribute this surge to the country’s legal stability and strong investor confidence. The average cost per hotel room is estimated at US$200,000. They also emphasized the superior infrastructure and tourism offerings in areas like Casa de Campo, Cap Cana, and Samaná, including high-end second homes owned by wealthy individuals.
The luxury segment continues to expand, with 1,000 upscale rooms set to open in Miches in 2025. Asonahores also highlighted growing diversification in tourism through sports and health-related travel, with top-tier hotel brands increasingly investing in the country.
https://dominicantoday.com/
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Amtrak Introduces A New Era Of High-Speed Rail Between Boston And Washington, DC
All aboard the future of East Coast travel! Starting Thursday, Aug. 28, customers can travel on Amtrak’s NextGen Acela –America’s high-speed train connecting the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.
More trains: 28 brand-new trains entering service through 2027
~More seats: 27% more seats per departure
~More service: Expanded weekday and weekend schedules
~“NextGen Acela is more than a new train—it’s an evolution of travel,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel.”
💺 What to expect
How to book your seat: Amtrak offers a simple and flexible approach to booking, seat selection, itinerary management, and even changes in the event of disruptions through the Amtrak mobile app, Amtrak website, and at station kiosks. As the official launch date approaches, customers should look for more information from Amtrak about how to locate and select the NextGen Acela train options. In the coming months, Amtrak will be operating both the current Acela equipment and the NextGen Acela trains as the new trains transition into the fleet.
~Premium onboard features: The new NextGen Acela offers an elevated experience, with features and amenities that today’s savvy travelers expect, plus everything they need to be productive along the way: free, high-speed 5G-enabled Wi-Fi, as well as individual power outlets and reading lights.
~More trains on the way: Five sleek new trainsets will be in service initially, with more trains joining the fleet through 2027.
🛠️ Built in America, for America
~The NextGen Acela fleet was assembled at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, NY by skilled Machinists Union workers, using components from over 180 suppliers across 29 states—creating approximately 15,000 U.S. jobs.* 🚄 Part of a bigger transformation
~NextGen Acela is a key component of Amtrak’s broader fleet modernization plan, which includes:
~New Amtrak Airo trains debuting on the Amtrak Cascades, Northeast Regional, and East Coast routes
~New, more efficient Long Distance locomotives
~Upgraded interiors in Coaches, Dining Cars, Sleepers, and Sightseer Lounges—featuring new seat cushions, upholstery, lighting, and finishes
Amtrak plans to introduce all 28 new NextGen Acela trains by 2027 — broadening travel opportunities throughout the Northeast Corridor.
More trains: 28 brand-new trains entering service through 2027
~More seats: 27% more seats per departure
~More service: Expanded weekday and weekend schedules
~“NextGen Acela is more than a new train—it’s an evolution of travel,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel.”
💺 What to expect
How to book your seat: Amtrak offers a simple and flexible approach to booking, seat selection, itinerary management, and even changes in the event of disruptions through the Amtrak mobile app, Amtrak website, and at station kiosks. As the official launch date approaches, customers should look for more information from Amtrak about how to locate and select the NextGen Acela train options. In the coming months, Amtrak will be operating both the current Acela equipment and the NextGen Acela trains as the new trains transition into the fleet.
~Premium onboard features: The new NextGen Acela offers an elevated experience, with features and amenities that today’s savvy travelers expect, plus everything they need to be productive along the way: free, high-speed 5G-enabled Wi-Fi, as well as individual power outlets and reading lights.
~More trains on the way: Five sleek new trainsets will be in service initially, with more trains joining the fleet through 2027.
🛠️ Built in America, for America
~The NextGen Acela fleet was assembled at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, NY by skilled Machinists Union workers, using components from over 180 suppliers across 29 states—creating approximately 15,000 U.S. jobs.* 🚄 Part of a bigger transformation
~NextGen Acela is a key component of Amtrak’s broader fleet modernization plan, which includes:
~New Amtrak Airo trains debuting on the Amtrak Cascades, Northeast Regional, and East Coast routes
~New, more efficient Long Distance locomotives
~Upgraded interiors in Coaches, Dining Cars, Sleepers, and Sightseer Lounges—featuring new seat cushions, upholstery, lighting, and finishes
Amtrak plans to introduce all 28 new NextGen Acela trains by 2027 — broadening travel opportunities throughout the Northeast Corridor.
Friday, August 15, 2025
United Airlines Moving Forward With Change On All Flights Starting August 12 With Apple TV+ Partnership
United Airlines has struggled with delays and cancellations throughout much of 2025 as it dealt with major technical issues at its flagship location, Newark Liberty International Airport.
RONALDO SCHEMIDT/Getty Images
After it looked like United had fixed its issues, the company suffered a major tech malfunction on Wednesday, Aug. 6 that forced the airline to ground all flights nationwide, a move that led to delays of over 1,000 flights.
In the week since, United appears to have fixed its issues and finally brought some good news to travelers.
United Airlines Announces Apple TV+
On Tuesday, Aug. 12, United announced that full seasons of select Apple TV+ shows like Severance, Shrinking, Ted Lasso and Slow Horses will now be available for free on the airline's 130,000 seatback screens and in the United app.
The carrier revealed plans to install seatback screens in every seat on a United Airlines flight while announcing a new aircraft interior that includes huge, Bluetooth-enabled, 27-inch, 4K OLED seatback screens. United said the introduction of Apple TV+ aligns with its plans to have 300,000+ screens across its fleet as it takes delivery of hundreds of new airplanes and retrofits existing aircraft.
"Apple creates groundbreaking original series, and United travelers are going to love watching fan-favorite Apple Originals for free on their next flight," said Mark Muren, United's Managing Director of Product, Identity and Loyalty. "We're setting a new standard for a premium inflight experience, and our first-of-its-kind collaboration with Apple TV+ gives fliers more high-quality content options on the latest high-definition seatback screens."
Apple TV+ Critical Acclaim
Last month, Apple TV+ landed a record-breaking 81 Emmy Award nominations, with Severance leading as this year's most-nominated series after hauling in 27 nominations. New comedy series, The Studio starring Seth Rogen was a smash hit, racking up 23 nominations, including Outstanding Comedy Series, making history with the most nominations for a freshman comedy and most overall acting nominations this year.
14 different Apple original series received an Emmy nomination including Severance, The Studio, Slow Horses, Shrinking, Presumed Innocent, The Gorge, Bad Sisters, Dope Thief, Disclaimer, Pachinko, Your Friends & Neighbors, Dark Matter, Deaf President Now!, and Bono: Stories of Surrender.
https://www.mensjournal.com/author/andrew-mccarty
After it looked like United had fixed its issues, the company suffered a major tech malfunction on Wednesday, Aug. 6 that forced the airline to ground all flights nationwide, a move that led to delays of over 1,000 flights.
In the week since, United appears to have fixed its issues and finally brought some good news to travelers.
United Airlines Announces Apple TV+
On Tuesday, Aug. 12, United announced that full seasons of select Apple TV+ shows like Severance, Shrinking, Ted Lasso and Slow Horses will now be available for free on the airline's 130,000 seatback screens and in the United app.
The carrier revealed plans to install seatback screens in every seat on a United Airlines flight while announcing a new aircraft interior that includes huge, Bluetooth-enabled, 27-inch, 4K OLED seatback screens. United said the introduction of Apple TV+ aligns with its plans to have 300,000+ screens across its fleet as it takes delivery of hundreds of new airplanes and retrofits existing aircraft.
"Apple creates groundbreaking original series, and United travelers are going to love watching fan-favorite Apple Originals for free on their next flight," said Mark Muren, United's Managing Director of Product, Identity and Loyalty. "We're setting a new standard for a premium inflight experience, and our first-of-its-kind collaboration with Apple TV+ gives fliers more high-quality content options on the latest high-definition seatback screens."
Apple TV+ Critical Acclaim
Last month, Apple TV+ landed a record-breaking 81 Emmy Award nominations, with Severance leading as this year's most-nominated series after hauling in 27 nominations. New comedy series, The Studio starring Seth Rogen was a smash hit, racking up 23 nominations, including Outstanding Comedy Series, making history with the most nominations for a freshman comedy and most overall acting nominations this year.
14 different Apple original series received an Emmy nomination including Severance, The Studio, Slow Horses, Shrinking, Presumed Innocent, The Gorge, Bad Sisters, Dope Thief, Disclaimer, Pachinko, Your Friends & Neighbors, Dark Matter, Deaf President Now!, and Bono: Stories of Surrender.
https://www.mensjournal.com/author/andrew-mccarty
Thursday, August 14, 2025
What's New In San Diego For Fall 2025
All October long, kids are invited to stay, eat and play for free as a part of the annual “Kids Free San Diego.” Offers include free hotel stays or amenities, free entrance to theme parks and attractions and free meals for children with a paid adult throughout the month and region. With over 100 offers to choose from, there is something for every child and child-at-heart to do this fall.
The San Diego Food and Wine Festival returns to the Embarcadero November 7-9 to showcase cross-border cuisine, celebrated chefs, winemakers and more. The festival also spotlights sustainability, features award-winning chefs including James Beard–recognized talent, and supports culinary education programs through scholarships that benefit aspiring hospitality professionals across the region.
Twitchcon 2025 will return to the San Diego Convention Center October 17-19 to celebrate the culture of live streaming, esports, internet culture, and entertainment. This year’s event expands on fan favorites like Creator Camp, Glitch Theater, Twitch Rivals, Artist Alley, and the famous Block Party, plus exclusive merch and elevated lounge experiences.
New Hotels & Renovations
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina is continuing the celebration of the arrival of giant pandas in San Diego with the Pandamonium Package, created in partnership with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Available through the end of 2025, the package includes a stay in a panda-themed suite, complete with bamboo accents and plush décor, plus general zoo admission and an exclusive behind-the-scenes Wildlife Adventures ‘Inside Look’ tour.
As part of a property-wide transformation, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego has debuted its fully redesigned deluxe guest rooms in the Seaport Tower. This milestone marks the first completed phase of the 1,628-room hotel’s top-to-bottom renovation, which will continue through 2026 with additional upgrades to guest accommodations, dining venues, meeting spaces, and rooftop recreation.
Arts & Culture
San Diego Design Week is September 17–21, spotlighting the role of human-centered design in shaping solutions to today’s social, environmental, and civic challenges. This year’s theme, Design for Impact, calls on creatives and changemakers to drive meaningful, measurable progress through bold and purposeful design. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and cross-disciplinary collaborations, the festival transforms the city into a vibrant design lab where innovation meets community.
La Jolla Playhouse's fall lineup features three productions, all of which are world-premiers. The Heart (Aug. 19–Sept. 21) is a gripping, emotionally charged musical following a life-saving heart transplant journey. All the Men Who’ve Frightened Me (Sept. 16–Oct. 12) is a genre-blending new play about a trans man who decides to carry his own child while confronting figures from his past. And Working Girl (Oct. 28–Nov. 30), a fresh and funny musical adaptation of the iconic 1988 film, with music by Cyndi Lauper.
The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will present “Alex Katz: Theater and Dance” from August 21, 2025-January 4, 2026. This exhibition is the first comprehensive exploration of Katz’s playful and inventive collaborations with choreographers, dancers, and members of avant-garde theater ensembles over six decades. The touring exhibition showcases nearly 90 rare archival materials, major sets and paintings, and previously unexhibited sketches from more than two dozen productions.
Dining & Libations
From the team behind North Park’s Cori Pastificio Trattoria comes Dora, opening this Fall in UCSD’s Theatre District. Named after Chef Accursio Lota’s grandmother, Dora will bring coastal Southern Italian cuisine to La Jolla with house made pastas, breads, gelato, and Mediterranean seafood rooted in Sicilian tradition. Just steps from the La Jolla Playhouse, Dora will also offer pre-theatre menus inspired by current productions, creating a seamless journey from table to stage.
Vulture, the newest concept from the team behind Kindred and Mothership, is now open in University Heights. Vulture reimagines mid-century Continental fine dining through a bold, plant-based lens—complete with tablecloth service, rich sauces, and theatrical tableside presentations. Helmed by Executive Chef Pancho Castellón and Head of Pastry Amy Noonan, the menu features standout dishes like Steak Diane made with lion’s mane mushrooms and a reworked Caesar with chickpea-based Parmiagiana and seaweed caviar.
Awards & Recognitions
The 2025 Michelin Guide recently named the newly opened Lilo as San Diego’s newest one-star Michelin restaurant. Lilo is an intimate, design-forward tasting restaurant from Eric Bost and John Resnick, the team behind Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie and Campfire, serving 12-course dinners to just 22 guests per evening. With Lilo’s addition, San Diego County now boasts five Michelin-starred establishments: the three-star Addison by Chef William Bradley, and one-star restaurants Valle (Oceanside), Juene et Jolie (Carlsbad), and Soichi (University Heights). Beyond the starred restaurants, San Diego has earned recognition for nine Bib Gourmand eateries and several recommended restaurants, totaling well over a dozen Michelin-recognized establishments.
Transportation
San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 transformation will reach a major milestone in September with the completion of phase 1. The reimagined terminal will welcome travelers with 19 gates, a new elevated departures roadway, an outdoor check-in pavilion, and a variety of shopping and dining experiences.
Sustainability
As part of its sustainability efforts, Town and Country Resort has introduced an on-site beehive in partnership with Encinitas Honey to support local pollination and eco-friendly practices. The resort is incorporating the honey into dishes and drinks across its restaurants, including specialty cocktails at ARLO and sweet treats at Lapper Sports Bar + Kitchen. Additional bee-inspired offerings include a limited-edition honey blonde ale with Pure Project Brewery and BeeKind organic toiletries in all guestrooms, further highlighting the resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
San Diego International Airport (SAN) has activated a cutting-edge hydrant fueling system as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. Hydrant fueling systems streamline the refueling process by delivering fuel directly from storage facilities to aircraft via underground pipelines. The new system reduces aircraft turnaround times, minimizes fuel truck traffic, and lowers carbon emissions.
For more information on San Diego’s offerings, including exciting vacation packages and valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority’s website at www.sandiego.org.
The San Diego Food and Wine Festival returns to the Embarcadero November 7-9 to showcase cross-border cuisine, celebrated chefs, winemakers and more. The festival also spotlights sustainability, features award-winning chefs including James Beard–recognized talent, and supports culinary education programs through scholarships that benefit aspiring hospitality professionals across the region.
Twitchcon 2025 will return to the San Diego Convention Center October 17-19 to celebrate the culture of live streaming, esports, internet culture, and entertainment. This year’s event expands on fan favorites like Creator Camp, Glitch Theater, Twitch Rivals, Artist Alley, and the famous Block Party, plus exclusive merch and elevated lounge experiences.
New Hotels & Renovations
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina is continuing the celebration of the arrival of giant pandas in San Diego with the Pandamonium Package, created in partnership with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Available through the end of 2025, the package includes a stay in a panda-themed suite, complete with bamboo accents and plush décor, plus general zoo admission and an exclusive behind-the-scenes Wildlife Adventures ‘Inside Look’ tour.
As part of a property-wide transformation, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego has debuted its fully redesigned deluxe guest rooms in the Seaport Tower. This milestone marks the first completed phase of the 1,628-room hotel’s top-to-bottom renovation, which will continue through 2026 with additional upgrades to guest accommodations, dining venues, meeting spaces, and rooftop recreation.
Arts & Culture
San Diego Design Week is September 17–21, spotlighting the role of human-centered design in shaping solutions to today’s social, environmental, and civic challenges. This year’s theme, Design for Impact, calls on creatives and changemakers to drive meaningful, measurable progress through bold and purposeful design. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and cross-disciplinary collaborations, the festival transforms the city into a vibrant design lab where innovation meets community.
La Jolla Playhouse's fall lineup features three productions, all of which are world-premiers. The Heart (Aug. 19–Sept. 21) is a gripping, emotionally charged musical following a life-saving heart transplant journey. All the Men Who’ve Frightened Me (Sept. 16–Oct. 12) is a genre-blending new play about a trans man who decides to carry his own child while confronting figures from his past. And Working Girl (Oct. 28–Nov. 30), a fresh and funny musical adaptation of the iconic 1988 film, with music by Cyndi Lauper.
The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will present “Alex Katz: Theater and Dance” from August 21, 2025-January 4, 2026. This exhibition is the first comprehensive exploration of Katz’s playful and inventive collaborations with choreographers, dancers, and members of avant-garde theater ensembles over six decades. The touring exhibition showcases nearly 90 rare archival materials, major sets and paintings, and previously unexhibited sketches from more than two dozen productions.
Dining & Libations
From the team behind North Park’s Cori Pastificio Trattoria comes Dora, opening this Fall in UCSD’s Theatre District. Named after Chef Accursio Lota’s grandmother, Dora will bring coastal Southern Italian cuisine to La Jolla with house made pastas, breads, gelato, and Mediterranean seafood rooted in Sicilian tradition. Just steps from the La Jolla Playhouse, Dora will also offer pre-theatre menus inspired by current productions, creating a seamless journey from table to stage.
Vulture, the newest concept from the team behind Kindred and Mothership, is now open in University Heights. Vulture reimagines mid-century Continental fine dining through a bold, plant-based lens—complete with tablecloth service, rich sauces, and theatrical tableside presentations. Helmed by Executive Chef Pancho Castellón and Head of Pastry Amy Noonan, the menu features standout dishes like Steak Diane made with lion’s mane mushrooms and a reworked Caesar with chickpea-based Parmiagiana and seaweed caviar.
Awards & Recognitions
The 2025 Michelin Guide recently named the newly opened Lilo as San Diego’s newest one-star Michelin restaurant. Lilo is an intimate, design-forward tasting restaurant from Eric Bost and John Resnick, the team behind Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie and Campfire, serving 12-course dinners to just 22 guests per evening. With Lilo’s addition, San Diego County now boasts five Michelin-starred establishments: the three-star Addison by Chef William Bradley, and one-star restaurants Valle (Oceanside), Juene et Jolie (Carlsbad), and Soichi (University Heights). Beyond the starred restaurants, San Diego has earned recognition for nine Bib Gourmand eateries and several recommended restaurants, totaling well over a dozen Michelin-recognized establishments.
Transportation
San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 transformation will reach a major milestone in September with the completion of phase 1. The reimagined terminal will welcome travelers with 19 gates, a new elevated departures roadway, an outdoor check-in pavilion, and a variety of shopping and dining experiences.
Sustainability
As part of its sustainability efforts, Town and Country Resort has introduced an on-site beehive in partnership with Encinitas Honey to support local pollination and eco-friendly practices. The resort is incorporating the honey into dishes and drinks across its restaurants, including specialty cocktails at ARLO and sweet treats at Lapper Sports Bar + Kitchen. Additional bee-inspired offerings include a limited-edition honey blonde ale with Pure Project Brewery and BeeKind organic toiletries in all guestrooms, further highlighting the resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
San Diego International Airport (SAN) has activated a cutting-edge hydrant fueling system as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. Hydrant fueling systems streamline the refueling process by delivering fuel directly from storage facilities to aircraft via underground pipelines. The new system reduces aircraft turnaround times, minimizes fuel truck traffic, and lowers carbon emissions.
For more information on San Diego’s offerings, including exciting vacation packages and valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority’s website at www.sandiego.org.
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
American Airlines Announces New International Routes For Next Summer
Keep the bags packed for summer vacation as American Airlines announces six new routes to Europe and South America for travelers to experience in summer 2026. American will debut new service to Prague (PRG) and the only nonstop service from the U.S. to Budapest, Hungary (BUD). The airline will also add new routes to popular destinations including Athens, Greece (ATH); Milan (MXP); and Zurich (ZRH), while expanding service in summer to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE).
“Customers continue to tell us that Europe is where they want to go each summer and these new routes make it even easier to cross the Atlantic in 2026,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. “We are excited to grow our network to new destinations like Prague and Budapest and offer even more premium travel experiences on our flights to Tokyo.”
Tickets will be available for purchase on these summer 2026 routes starting Aug. 11 at aa.com or through American’s mobile app.
Departure airport Arrival airport Service notes Aircraft type
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Athens, Greece (ATH) Summer seasonal service starts May 21, 2026 Boeing 787-8
DFW Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) Extended service from May 21 to Aug. 3, 2026 787-8
DFW Zurich (ZRH) Summer seasonal service from May 21 to Aug. 4, 2026 Boeing 777-200
Miami (MIA) Milan (MXP) Year-round service starts March 29, 2026 787-8
Philadelphia (PHL) Budapest, Hungary (BUD) Summer seasonal service starts May 21, 2026 787-8
PHL Prague (PRG) Summer seasonal service starts May 21, 2026 787-8
Central Europe is calling
Next May, American will launch service from Philadelphia (PHL) to BUD and PRG, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to offering customers convenient access from American’s industry-leading domestic network to two new and exciting European destinations. With charming medieval architecture, delightful thermal baths and dinner cruises on the Danube and Vltava rivers, these two new destinations complement American’s robust trans-Atlantic network as the airline will serve 19* trans-Atlantic destinations from its PHL hub in 2026.
Customers connecting to Europe at PHL can enjoy the newly opened Flagship® and Admirals Club® lounges in PHL — two stylish, calm and comfortable sanctuaries designed for travelers to relax during their journey. Flagship® lounge customers can sip on complimentary champagne and dine on unique-to-Philadelphia dishes while taking in the panoramic runway views while those in the Admirals Club® lounge can enjoy specialty coffee, curated self-serve offerings and a full-service bar.
New routes to European favorites
American is expanding its international service to ATH and MXP next year. Daily service from DFW to ATH will take off starting next May. One of Europe’s most popular destinations, Athens provides travelers looking to take in history and delectable cuisine the chance to do both while tagging on a quick trip to a must-see Greek island. DFW will be American’s fifth nonstop destination to Athens, providing nonstop flights from more U.S. cities to Greece than any other airline.
Known for incredible fashion, art and architecture, Milan is a traveler favorite. Next March, American will launch daily service from MIA to MXP, providing the only nonstop link connecting two vibrant cities. American is MIA’s largest airline, and this new service will complement flights to Rome that began in summer 2025.
American continues to grow its comprehensive global network by adding six new routes to Europe and expanding service to South America for summer 2026. For travelers awed by stunning architecture or wanting to dip into a thermal bath, American will be the only carrier offering nonstop service from the U.S. to Budapest, Hungary. Across other destinations in Europe, American will add new service to Prague, and offer new routes to Athens, Greece; Milan; and Zurich. FORT WORTH, Texas — Keep the bags packed for summer vacation as American Airlines announces six new routes to Europe and South America for travelers to experience in summer 2026. American will debut new service to Prague (PRG) and the only nonstop service from the U.S. to Budapest, Hungary (BUD). The airline will also add new routes to popular destinations including Athens, Greece (ATH); Milan (MXP); and Zurich (ZRH), while expanding service in summer to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE).
“Customers continue to tell us that Europe is where they want to go each summer and these new routes make it even easier to cross the Atlantic in 2026,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. “We are excited to grow our network to new destinations like Prague and Budapest and offer even more premium travel experiences on our flights to Tokyo.”
New routes to European favorites
American is expanding its international service to ATH and MXP next year. Daily service from DFW to ATH will take off starting next May. One of Europe’s most popular destinations, Athens provides travelers looking to take in history and delectable cuisine the chance to do both while tagging on a quick trip to a must-see Greek island. DFW will be American’s fifth nonstop destination to Athens, providing nonstop flights from more U.S. cities to Greece than any other airline.
Known for incredible fashion, art and architecture, Milan is a traveler favorite. Next March, American will launch daily service from MIA to MXP, providing the only nonstop link connecting two vibrant cities. American is MIA’s largest airline, and this new service will complement flights to Rome that began in summer 2025
Soccer fans get ready to cheer
Special for global soccer fans, American will launch limited-time service between DFW and ZRH and offer expanded summer service from DFW and MIA to EZE. Flights from Argentina and Switzerland will connect soccer fans to Dallas-Fort Worth for the world’s premier sporting event.
Between May 21 and Aug. 4, 2026, American will offer the only nonstop service connecting DFW and ZRH. Currently offered as winter-seasonal service, American will operate four weekly summer services from DFW to EZE and up to three daily flights in summer between MIA and EZE.
Expanded premium options to Tokyo
Travelers who have their eyes on a summer getaway to Asia next year will have more options to enhance their journey with increased premium cabin offerings. Compared to summer 2025, American will increase premium seating capacity to Tokyo (HND) from DFW and Los Angeles (LAX) by more than 45% next summer.
Departure airport Arrival airport Service notes
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Tokyo Haneda (HND) Daily Boeing 777-300 service begins March 29, 2026
Los Angeles (LAX) HND Twice-daily Boeing 777-200 service begins March 29, 2026
*This post has been updated to correct the number of trans-Atlantic destinations from American's PHL hub in 2026.
About American Airlines Group
As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com
American continues to enhance the customer experience in Business with the introduction of pajamas and mattress pads on all widebody flights to East Asia, the Middle East, India, Australia and New Zealand. Travelers can also experience inflight service that includes multicourse chef-inspired meals paired with award-winning wines, and delectable snacks to fulfill those midflight munchies.
“Customers continue to tell us that Europe is where they want to go each summer and these new routes make it even easier to cross the Atlantic in 2026,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. “We are excited to grow our network to new destinations like Prague and Budapest and offer even more premium travel experiences on our flights to Tokyo.”
Tickets will be available for purchase on these summer 2026 routes starting Aug. 11 at aa.com or through American’s mobile app.
Departure airport Arrival airport Service notes Aircraft type
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Athens, Greece (ATH) Summer seasonal service starts May 21, 2026 Boeing 787-8
DFW Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) Extended service from May 21 to Aug. 3, 2026 787-8
DFW Zurich (ZRH) Summer seasonal service from May 21 to Aug. 4, 2026 Boeing 777-200
Miami (MIA) Milan (MXP) Year-round service starts March 29, 2026 787-8
Philadelphia (PHL) Budapest, Hungary (BUD) Summer seasonal service starts May 21, 2026 787-8
PHL Prague (PRG) Summer seasonal service starts May 21, 2026 787-8
Central Europe is calling
Next May, American will launch service from Philadelphia (PHL) to BUD and PRG, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to offering customers convenient access from American’s industry-leading domestic network to two new and exciting European destinations. With charming medieval architecture, delightful thermal baths and dinner cruises on the Danube and Vltava rivers, these two new destinations complement American’s robust trans-Atlantic network as the airline will serve 19* trans-Atlantic destinations from its PHL hub in 2026.
Customers connecting to Europe at PHL can enjoy the newly opened Flagship® and Admirals Club® lounges in PHL — two stylish, calm and comfortable sanctuaries designed for travelers to relax during their journey. Flagship® lounge customers can sip on complimentary champagne and dine on unique-to-Philadelphia dishes while taking in the panoramic runway views while those in the Admirals Club® lounge can enjoy specialty coffee, curated self-serve offerings and a full-service bar.
New routes to European favorites
American is expanding its international service to ATH and MXP next year. Daily service from DFW to ATH will take off starting next May. One of Europe’s most popular destinations, Athens provides travelers looking to take in history and delectable cuisine the chance to do both while tagging on a quick trip to a must-see Greek island. DFW will be American’s fifth nonstop destination to Athens, providing nonstop flights from more U.S. cities to Greece than any other airline.
Known for incredible fashion, art and architecture, Milan is a traveler favorite. Next March, American will launch daily service from MIA to MXP, providing the only nonstop link connecting two vibrant cities. American is MIA’s largest airline, and this new service will complement flights to Rome that began in summer 2025.
American continues to grow its comprehensive global network by adding six new routes to Europe and expanding service to South America for summer 2026. For travelers awed by stunning architecture or wanting to dip into a thermal bath, American will be the only carrier offering nonstop service from the U.S. to Budapest, Hungary. Across other destinations in Europe, American will add new service to Prague, and offer new routes to Athens, Greece; Milan; and Zurich. FORT WORTH, Texas — Keep the bags packed for summer vacation as American Airlines announces six new routes to Europe and South America for travelers to experience in summer 2026. American will debut new service to Prague (PRG) and the only nonstop service from the U.S. to Budapest, Hungary (BUD). The airline will also add new routes to popular destinations including Athens, Greece (ATH); Milan (MXP); and Zurich (ZRH), while expanding service in summer to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE).
“Customers continue to tell us that Europe is where they want to go each summer and these new routes make it even easier to cross the Atlantic in 2026,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. “We are excited to grow our network to new destinations like Prague and Budapest and offer even more premium travel experiences on our flights to Tokyo.”
New routes to European favorites
American is expanding its international service to ATH and MXP next year. Daily service from DFW to ATH will take off starting next May. One of Europe’s most popular destinations, Athens provides travelers looking to take in history and delectable cuisine the chance to do both while tagging on a quick trip to a must-see Greek island. DFW will be American’s fifth nonstop destination to Athens, providing nonstop flights from more U.S. cities to Greece than any other airline.
Known for incredible fashion, art and architecture, Milan is a traveler favorite. Next March, American will launch daily service from MIA to MXP, providing the only nonstop link connecting two vibrant cities. American is MIA’s largest airline, and this new service will complement flights to Rome that began in summer 2025
Soccer fans get ready to cheer
Special for global soccer fans, American will launch limited-time service between DFW and ZRH and offer expanded summer service from DFW and MIA to EZE. Flights from Argentina and Switzerland will connect soccer fans to Dallas-Fort Worth for the world’s premier sporting event.
Between May 21 and Aug. 4, 2026, American will offer the only nonstop service connecting DFW and ZRH. Currently offered as winter-seasonal service, American will operate four weekly summer services from DFW to EZE and up to three daily flights in summer between MIA and EZE.
Expanded premium options to Tokyo
Travelers who have their eyes on a summer getaway to Asia next year will have more options to enhance their journey with increased premium cabin offerings. Compared to summer 2025, American will increase premium seating capacity to Tokyo (HND) from DFW and Los Angeles (LAX) by more than 45% next summer.
Departure airport Arrival airport Service notes
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Tokyo Haneda (HND) Daily Boeing 777-300 service begins March 29, 2026
Los Angeles (LAX) HND Twice-daily Boeing 777-200 service begins March 29, 2026
*This post has been updated to correct the number of trans-Atlantic destinations from American's PHL hub in 2026.
About American Airlines Group
As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com
American continues to enhance the customer experience in Business with the introduction of pajamas and mattress pads on all widebody flights to East Asia, the Middle East, India, Australia and New Zealand. Travelers can also experience inflight service that includes multicourse chef-inspired meals paired with award-winning wines, and delectable snacks to fulfill those midflight munchies.
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