Traveling by Train Between Germany And France Just Got A Whole Lot Easier As Direct, High-Speed Train Launches

German rail service operator, Deutsche Bahn, officially launched a direct, high-speed train on Monday, linking both countries between Paris and Berlin, while further strengthening the friendship bond between the two, in hopes of luring more travelers to travel by rail service.

At 9:55 a.m. (0855 GMT), on Monday, December 16th, the German ICE train departed from the French capital's Gare de l'Est station and arrived eight hours later at Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 6:03 p.m., connecting both countries by train via a once-per-day journey that is not only convenient but welcomed by many.

Germany's ICE Train Attended and Lauded by Dignitaries at Inaugural Launch and Sets Off Just in Time For the Holidays

Both France and Germany are high-stakes players within the European Union. Their close-knit relationship makes them the two most popular countries within the EU, while boasting larger-than-life economies in comparison to other European countries.

Dignitaries, such as François Delattre, the French ambassador to Germany, and Kai Wegner, the governing mayor of Berlin, were in attendance for the inaugural launch of the new, direct, high-speed train that links both capitals ‘from city center to city center.’

Commuters also get to experience the ICE train just in time for the Christmas holidays, stopping at major holiday destinations such as Strasbourg, Karlsruhe, and Frankfurt during its travels from Berlin to Paris, and vice versa.

For those traveling to Berlin, the high-speed train arrives at Hauptbahnhof each day shortly after 6 p.m. For those traveling to Paris, arrival time at the Gare de l'Est station is scheduled for slightly before 8 p.m.

And, at a reasonable price for a one-way ticket starting at €24.99 ($26.23) to upwards of €99 ($104), depending on seating class, amount of tickets, and travel dates, traveling via this rail service is a win-win for everyone.
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The New, Direct, High-Speed Train Affords Deutsche Bahn a Chance to Redeem Itself With Commuters

Deutsche Bahn’s reputation for prompt and punctual train services has been on the negative side due to 60 percent of their long-distance trains arriving on time, while the remaining 40 percent were continuously late, causing travel nightmares for passengers trying to get to their destinations on time.

With the launch of its new, direct service linking both France and Germany’s capitals, the German rail service operator hopes to redeem itself with commuters, while increasing the percentage of punctual train arrivals by an additional 15 percent.

Deutsche Bahn’s reputation for prompt and punctual train services has been on the negative side due to 60 percent of their long-distance trains arriving on time, while the remaining 40 percent were continuously late, causing travel nightmares for passengers trying to get to their destinations on time.

With the launch of its new, direct service linking both France and Germany’s capitals, the German rail service operator hopes to redeem itself with commuters, while increasing the percentage of punctual train arrivals by an additional 15 percent.

"German Transport Minister Volker Wissing also said it is more than “just a new, additional offer.” He said, “We still have a lot of potential to get as many people as possible onto the rails inside Europe with attractive offers, including for longer journeys and live out this friendship.”

In addition to the new, direct rail service between Paris and Berlin, Deutsche Bain offers a direct, seven-hour train journey between Munich and Amsterdam, as well.

https://www.thetravel.com/author/margherita-marullo/

The Nation's Largest Indoor Agriculture Event Returns To Pennsylvania - Jan. 4-11

The 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show is taking place January 4-11 at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. While it’s been in existence since 1916, this isn’t your granddaddy’s country fair.

The weeklong gathering is all about “Powering Pennsylvania,” recognizing the state’s many family-run agritourism destinations and green-energy producers that help drive the Keystone State’s economy and growing agritourism industry with 593,000 jobs and pouring more than $132.5 billion into PA communities every year.

Every year, the PA Farm Show, Pennsylvania’s State Fair™, brings half a million visitors to the capitol city for eight days of competition, and family fun with an educational twist. This year’s Farm Show promises to be the best yet, appealing to all ages and interests. Highlights include:

Instagrammable Moments with Mini Highland Cows - Swartz Farm and Friends of Farm Show Foundation are giving guests a chance to pet and snap an unforgettable selfie with these adorable bovines.

Dr. Temple Grandin, a professor and best-selling author whose life was portrayed by Claire Danes in the HBO Film Temple Grandin, will take to the stage on January 9 at 9:00 a.m. to share her innovative perspective on problem-solving and understanding animals. Her appearance and fireside chat will further showcase the powerful women leading and shaping Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry.

It’s all about being green, and those in search of new ideas to expand or change-up their flower or vegetable gardens can visit the GIANT Expo Hall’s Conservation Exhibit how PA farmers are working for cleaner air and water, and how they can incorporate some of these practices into their own gardening.

Award-winning chef Jet Tila, Pennsylvania’s Food Network star, author and five-time Guiness World Record-holder for, among other things, creating the longest California Roll, will lead an army of talented PA chefs at the Preferred Culinary Connection state in the Main Hall. Guests can sample recipes from future stars enrolled at PA culinary schools, grab a cookbook or embark on a farm-to-table culinary adventure.

Throughout the Farm Show, there will be a breadth of events, from cooking classes and competitions to hair-raising Mullet Championship and favorite foods to sample and purchase.

Like I said at the start, this isn’t your granddaddy’s farm expo but instead a modern-day gathering that explores Pennsylvania’s bountiful agriculture and agritourism.

For more details to plan your visit, please go to: https://www.visitpa.com/article/whats-new-pennsylvania-farm-show

JetBlue Boosts Boston Transatlantic Flying By Launching New Service To Madrid And Edinburgh

JetBlue, New England’s leading leisure airline, is elevating transatlantic travel with the launch of two exciting new routes to Madrid and Edinburgh. Starting May 22, 2025, JetBlue will introduce daily nonstop seasonal service between Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), marking its debut in Spain and expanding its European footprint.

On the same day, JetBlue will also kick off daily seasonal flights between Boston Logan and Edinburgh Airport (EDI) in Scotland. This new route will join JetBlue’s popular summer seasonal service between New York’s JFK Airport and Edinburgh, giving travelers even more ways to experience the charm of Scotland's historic capital. Both routes, along with all of JetBlue’s European destinations, are now available for booking.

“Madrid and Edinburgh represent two of Europe’s most exciting and popular destinations, and we’re happy to offer even more transatlantic travel options for our customers from Boston and New England,” said Daniel Shurz, head of revenue, network and enterprise planning at JetBlue. “Europe continues to be part of our network strategy, as our loyal customers look for JetBlue's signature service and low fares to bring them to top leisure destinations, including across the Atlantic."

Since its entrance into the European market over three years ago, JetBlue’s reputation has quickly grown as the airline of choice for affordable, customer-focused, and premium transatlantic travel.

Optimizing JetBlue’s European Service with JetForward

JetBlue's new Boston flights to Madrid and Edinburgh support its JetForward strategy to build the best East Coast leisure network and return to sustained profitability. Edinburgh and Madrid will join JetBlue’s existing transatlantic seasonal service from Boston to Amsterdam, Dublin, and London-Gatwick, and year-round flights to London-Heathrow and Paris. In summer 2025, JetBlue will offer 7 daily nonstops from Boston to Europe.

From New York-JFK, JetBlue serves Dublin and Edinburgh seasonally, while Amsterdam, London-Heathrow, and Paris are served year-round. Based on their popularity, returning routes to Dublin and Edinburgh have been extended this year to the end of October, a month later than the previous year.

“Since launching flights to London in 2021, we’ve thoughtfully adjusted our European service to maximize value for our customers and our business,” said Shurz. “By aligning our schedule with peak seasonal demand and flying our aircraft to other destinations in the off-season, we’re capitalizing from a business perspective while delivering the destinations and experiences our customers love. This approach is driving meaningful results.”

Customers across JetBlue’s network can connect through Boston and New York as gateways to their next European adventure or, via Europe, both focus cities serve as a gateway to JetBlue’s many destinations throughout the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Destination- Frequency- Dates of Service

London-Heathrow (LHR) 1x daily Year-round

Paris (CDG) 1x daily Year-round

Amsterdam (AMS) 1x daily March 29 – October 24

Dublin (DUB) 1x daily April 17 – October 24

London-Gatwick (LGW) 1x daily May 22 – October 24

Edinburgh (EDI) 1x daily May 22 – October 24

Madrid (MAD) 1x daily May 22 – October 24

New York-JFK Transatlantic 2025 Service:

Destination- Frequency- Dates of Service

London-Heathrow (LHR) 2x daily Year-round

Paris (CDG) 1x daily Year-round

Amsterdam (AMS) 1x daily Year-round

Dublin (DUB) 1x daily April 17 – October 24

Edinburgh (EDI) 1x daily May 8 – October 24

Madrid: Culture and Cuisine - ¡Qué Guay! (How cool!)

Madrid is a city that never sleeps and provides travelers with endless cultural and gastronomical offerings. Visitors fall in love with its energy, from the historic streets in the city center to the modern style of Gran Vía. It’s a foodie paradise, whether you’re having tapas in La Latina, sipping sangria in a century-old taberna or indulging in chocolate-dipped churros.

Art enthusiasts flock to the world-famous Prado Museum, while sports fans cheer on legendary soccer teams. And when the sun sets, Madrid’s nightlife lights up with rooftop bars, flamenco shows, and bustling plazas. It’s no wonder travelers keep coming back for a dose of Spain’s vibrant capital.

Edinburgh: ‘Bonny’ in the Summer, Brimming with History

Many visitors to Edinburgh agree, it is a city directly out of a storybook, where medieval charm meets modern comforts. The city, a gateway to the Scottish Highlands, features cobblestone streets, the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched high on its rocky throne, and the mysterious allure of the historic Royal Mile. It is a paradise for festival lovers, with JetBlue being a proud recent sponsor of the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Whisky enjoyers can toast to the city’s rich distilling heritage, while nature seekers are rewarded with awesome views from Arthur’s Seat. That’s not to mention world-class golf courses, in the country where the sport was born. From its literary history to its cozy pubs, Edinburgh is a magical blend of culture, adventure, and a wee bit of Scottish charm.

Schedule between Boston (BOS) and Madrid (MAD)

Daily seasonal service beginning May 22, 2025 (Eastbound) & May 23, 2025 (Westbound) (Through October 24, 2025)

All times local

BOS-MAD Flight #2261

MAD-BOS Flight #2260

10:25 p.m. – 11:30 a.m. ( +1)

1:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.

Schedule between Boston (BOS) and Edinburgh (EDI)

Daily seasonal service beginning May 22, 2025 (Eastbound) & May 23, 2025 (Westbound) (Through October 24, 2025)

All times local

BOS-EDI Flight #1079

EDI-BOS Flight #1080

10:30 p.m. – 10:10 a.m. ( +1)

12:10 p.m. – 2:22 p.m.

The JetBlue Experience

Flights to Madrid and Edinburgh will operate on JetBlue’s A321-series aircraft. These aircraft feature JetBlue’s Mint premium experience, with fully lie-flat private suite, restaurant-style small plates curated by Delicious Hospitality Group’s (DHG) popular New York City restaurants Charlie Bird, Pasquale Jones and Legacy Records.

The airline’s award-winning core experience offers a new level of service to customers who generally fly “coach” but still want a great experience at an attractive fare. Core customers enjoy a boutique-style experience no matter where they sit with a free selection of brand-name snacks, soft drinks, coffee, tea, beer, wine and liquor and a high-quality complimentary meal from JetBlue’s culinary partner, DIG.

Customers in both Core and Mint stay connected throughout the flight with fast, free and unlimited high-speed Fly-Fi 2 . Additionally, customers have access to a robust selection of inflight entertainment, including exclusive content from JetBlue’s streaming partner, Peacock, on seatback screens at every seat. All customers are able to enjoy a multi-screen experience onboard – just like they do at home.

For more details on JetBlue’s transatlantic service, visit: https://www.jetblue.com/flying-with-us/uk-and-europe.

JetBlue Has a New Flight To A Caribbean Island With Uncrowded Beaches, Historic Towns And A Buzzing Food Scene

A buzzing food scene that includes some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. Copious, uncrowded beaches. Colorful, charming downtowns with centuries of history. If you haven’t been to St Croix in the US Virgin Islands, you’re missing out on a vibe not quite like any other Caribbean island.

The primary pool at the Buccaneer resort in St Croix.

Now, a major airline is back in St Croix. JetBlue just re-entered the largest US Virgin Island with a new nonstop flight from San Juan, connecting St Croix to its vast network of routes that fly to San Juan.

The new flight is operating every day of the week; the flight takes about 45 minutes between Puerto Rico and St Croix. JetBlue is using an Airbus A320 to operate it.

JetBlue also flies from San Juan to St Thomas, and from Boston to St Thomas.

So what about prices?

The San Juan-St Croix flight costs about $29 for one-way trips right now, as part of a special intro offer.

If you’re flying from, say, Fort Lauderdale to St Croix via San Juan next month, the new JetBlue route will take cost about $833.21. That includes the flight to San Juan and the flight to St Croix. You can book on one ticket with one itinerary, and check your bags all the way through to St Croix.

https://www.caribjournal.com/author/alexander-britell/

The Orient Express Is Opening Its First Hotel In A Historic Palace In Rome With Views Of The Pantheon

The first hotel under the Orient Express brand officially opened for bookings Dec. 4, allowing discerning travelers to indulge in the brand’s high standards of services and amenities within a hotel environment. Orient Express La Minerva, in the historic Piazza della Minerva in Rome, Italy, was formerly known as Palazzo Fonesca and dates back to the 17th century.

The reimagined rooms have art deco–inspired interiors.Courtesy of Orient Express

Arsenal SpA acquired the entire island site in 2021, comprehensively renovating and restoring the building with architect and interior designer Hugo Toro. Orient Express La Minerva spans 93 luxurious guestrooms, including 36 suites, four of which are signature suites. The Stendhal Suite, La Minerva Suite, Obelisco Suite and Orient Express Suite feature unique configurations and are the epitome of opulence.

All accommodations come with bespoke bathroom amenities; Rivolta Carmignani linen; a minibar with complimentary soft drinks, coffee and tea; and more.

Upon entering, guests can peruse La Minerva Bar, home to the building’s historic skylight and honoring the Roman goddess Minerva, which serves cocktails, Italian snacks and afternoon tea with pastries. An on-site rooftop restaurant and bar also graces the property, offering Mediterranean cuisine and craft cocktails. Voliera sits on the seventh floor, meaning guests can take in views of St. Peter’s Dome, Altare della Patria and Piazza della Minerva.

Guests are welcome to celebrate special occasions within the hotel’s Olimpo Ballroom, adorned with Murano chandeliers and 12 marble statues by Rinaldo Rinaldi. There’s also three additional meeting rooms available.

TAP Air Portugal Just Added 3 New U.S. Flights, Including A New Route To The Azores, The "Hawaii Of Europe".

The Portuguese carrier has unveiled a fresh lineup of new flights from major U.S. gateways to dreamy destinations throughout the country, including hopping cities like Lisbon and Porto and a beautiful island escape.

The Azores island of Terceira is known for its extensive network of lava caves, ocean pools, and Angra do Heroísmo, the historic capital.Photo by Foto-Jagla.de/Shutterstock

Travelers in Northern California are about to get a nonstop flight to the Azores, a lesser-visited Portuguese island paradise. This offbeat routing is one of a trio of seasonal routes that TAP Air Portugal is launching for the summer of 2025, which will also include flights from its newest U.S. gateway, Los Angeles.

The Azores, a rocky archipelago in the Atlantic some 850 miles off the coast of Portugal, has gained traction among travelers in recent years for its unspoiled beauty, eco-friendly hotels, fine wines, and farm-to-table cuisine.

It already has some nonstop service from the United States, mainly from East Coast gateways like New York and Boston. But this will be the first time TAP Air Portugal is offering a direct flight from the West Coast to the Azores.

From June 3 through August 26, 2025, the new flight will operate once a week—every Tuesday—from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Terceira’s Lajes Airport (TER) as a stop on a flight that will continue to Lisbon. On other days of the week (with frequencies varying by season), TAP flies nonstop between SFO and Lisbon year-round.

The Azores island of Terceira is known for its extensive network of lava caves that travelers can explore, natural ocean pools, and its main port town, Angra do Heroísmo, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its critical role in maritime history. Most other flights to the Azores land at the main international airport in Ponta Delgado, on the island of São Miguel. And while tourism will drive some of the demand, the new route will also serve a sizable Azorean community in Northern California, a TAP official told Afar.

In Biscoitos on the island of Terceira, you can swim in natural ocean pools created by volcanic rocks.Photo by Liliana Marmelo/Shutterstock

Two additional new routes from TAP Air Portugal

TAP also announced two additional new summer 2025 routes: a new nonstop flight between Los Angeles and Lisbon and a new nonstop from Boston to Porto. On both routes, TAP will be the only carrier offering nonstop service.

At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which TAP served briefly in 1989–1990, the carrier will start with three flights a week on May 16, 2025, increasing to four times weekly by May 25. Introductory fares—available from now until December 17—start at $679 round trip to Portugal and from $599 to other points in Europe. The seasonal L.A. service will end on October 25, 2025.

Flights will be aboard a wide-body Airbus A330-900 neo. The planes have 34 business-class seats and 96 “comfort seats” with more legroom that standard coach seats—a welcome feature on a flight that will last nearly 13 hours (westbound). The same plane already operates on existing San Francisco flights.

The Portuguese carrier will start nonstop flights from Boston to Porto, northern Portugal’s gateway to the Douro Valley wine region, with four flights a week on May 14, 2025, also through October 25. Flights will be aboard narrow-body Airbus A321 LRs. Introductory fares start at $529 round trip, if purchased by December 17, 2024.

TAP currently flies from seven U.S. gateways: New York, Newark, Boston, Miami, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Chicago. And the airline is also known for its generous stopover program that allows travelers to spend time in Lisbon and Porto at a steal, before continuing on to destinations throughout Europe and beyond.

https://www.afar.com/authors/barbara-peterson

The Best Places To Go In Mexico in 2025: Explore Hidden Gems, Cultural Hotspots, And Stunning Beaches

As travel trends continue to shift towards more authentic, culture-rich experiences, Mexico stands out as one of the most exciting destinations for 2025. From its vibrant cities to serene beachside retreats, Mexico offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. Here are the top places to visit in Mexico in 2025, featuring Aguascalientes, San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, and Nayarit.

Aguascalientes: Mexico’s Hidden Gem of Art, Culture, and Tradition

Tucked away in the heart of Mexico, Aguascalientes is a vibrant destination that offers a blend of rich history, colorful traditions, and modern amenities, making it a must-visit in 2025. Known for its lively festivals, including the San Marcos Fair, Aguascalientes brings together art, culture, and gastronomy in a way that feels both authentic and fresh. Explore the city’s stunning colonial architecture, stroll through its bustling markets, and discover its burgeoning art scene at the Museo de Aguascalientes, which showcases works by some of Mexico’s most celebrated artists.

Aguascalientes is also a gateway to unique natural attractions. Travelers can explore the Sierra Fría mountain range, perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and soaking up stunning vistas. The city’s charming atmosphere, warm hospitality, and mix of modern and traditional make Aguascalientes a standout destination that promises an unforgettable Mexican experience.

San Miguel de Allende: The Artistic Heart of Mexico with a Luxurious Stay at Hotel Matilda

Photo by Allen Barkus

San Miguel de Allende continues to be one of Mexico’s most beloved destinations, and 2025 is no exception. This UNESCO World Heritage city is known for its colorful streets, stunning baroque architecture, and thriving arts scene. Whether it’s browsing local galleries, enjoying live music in the town square, or simply wandering through cobblestone streets lined with vibrant bougainvillea, San Miguel de Allende is a feast for the senses.

For a luxurious stay, look no further than Hotel Matilda, a chic boutique hotel that perfectly blends contemporary art and design with the city’s colonial charm. Hotel Matilda is renowned for its stunning art collection, upscale amenities, and impeccable service. The hotel’s restaurant, Moxi, helmed by world-renowned chef Vicente Torres, offers a gastronomic journey that highlights the best of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. After a day of exploring, unwind at the hotel’s serene spa, which offers treatments that incorporate traditional Mexican healing rituals.

San Miguel de Allende’s combination of artistic flair, historic beauty, and luxurious accommodations make it a must-visit destination in 2025. Whether you're savoring local cuisine, shopping for artisan crafts, or soaking in the town’s rich cultural heritage, San Miguel promises an enriching travel experience.

Puerto Vallarta: Beachfront Bliss with Unmatched Luxury and Charm

Photo by Allen Barkus

Puerto Vallarta is synonymous with sun, sand, and relaxation, but it’s also a vibrant cultural hub with a dynamic food scene, lively art galleries, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, family adventure, or solo exploration, Puerto Vallarta is a coastal paradise that offers something for everyone.

For those seeking a luxurious and intimate stay, Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway is the ideal choice. This adults-only boutique hotel is known for its personalized service, beachfront location, and stunning ocean views. The serene atmosphere, luxurious suites, and gourmet dining options make it a perfect retreat for couples looking to reconnect and unwind.

Families and those seeking a more all-inclusive experience will love Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments, which combines the best of Puerto Vallarta’s beachfront living with fun activities and exceptional service. With multiple pools, diverse dining options, and daily entertainment, this resort is perfect for travelers of all ages looking to soak up the sun and enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant spirit.

Beyond the beaches, Puerto Vallarta offers a mix of cultural experiences, from exploring the historic Zona Romántica to taking a sunset cruise along the stunning Banderas Bay. Visitors can also indulge in outdoor adventures like snorkeling, zip-lining, or hiking through lush tropical landscapes, making it one of Mexico’s top destinations in 2025.

Nayarit: The Untouched Paradise of Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Nayarit is quickly becoming one of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations, and it’s easy to see why. With its unspoiled beaches, quaint fishing villages, and lush jungles, Nayarit offers an authentic escape that feels worlds away from more crowded tourist spots. Whether it’s surfing in Sayulita, exploring the hidden beaches of Punta Mita, or savoring fresh seafood at a beachfront palapa, Nayarit captures the essence of laid-back luxury.

The state’s Magical Towns, including San Blas and Compostela, offer a glimpse into Mexico’s rich history and vibrant culture, complete with charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling local markets. For those looking to reconnect with nature, Nayarit’s diverse landscape provides endless opportunities for adventure, from whale watching and snorkeling to jungle hikes and bird-watching.

For a unique experience, visit Isla de Mexcaltitán, often referred to as the “Venice of Mexico,” where you can explore canals, learn about local indigenous cultures, and enjoy fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. Nayarit’s blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and serene beach towns make it an idyllic destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in 2025.