At the Best Western Plus Hospitality House in New York, a corner room with a view is an ideal upgrade.
By Mark Chesnut
Whether it’s a seat at the front of the plane or a nicer hotel room, few travelers would turn down a free upgrade. But how do you snag these elusive — and complimentary — delights? Here are a few tips and strategies to help you along. (more…)
All aboard: Miami International Airport will be busy for the holidays. Photo: Steven Brooke
By Mark Chesnut
When it comes to business travel, ‘tis the season for holiday headaches. With Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve fast approaching — not to mention potentially disruptive winter weather, you’re much more likely to be in crowded airports, packed planes and flying through less-than-ideal weather conditions — all of which increases the likelihood that you may face challenges en route. Here are a few tips to help you avoid the worst of the season. (more…)
Art at the airport: Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta.
By Mark Chesnut
Long layovers and delayed flights don’t have to mean hours of boredom. Increasingly, airports large and small are using public space to exhibit original artwork and historical displays. So rather than stopping at yet another Cinnabon, consider checking out some of the latest exhibits. (more…)
The United-Continental merger brings a host of changes, including a renaming of lounges and frequent flyer tweaks.
By Mark Chesnut
United and Continental Airlines passengers looking for a quiet respite from the airport hubbub are ducking into a lounge with a new name. The Continental Airlines Presidents Club and United Airlines Red Carpet Club have been renamed United Club, as the latest step in the merger process between the two airlines. The newly dubbed lounges feature the same amenities as before, including free drinks and light snacks, free Wi-Fi, workstations and conference room access. (more…)
Unfl-app-able: Use these recommended apps to save yourself time at the airport: Credit: joiseyshowaa.
By Mark Chesnut
No one likes to waste time in airports. Whether you’re desperately trying to find the shortest way to get to your next flight, or the best place to get “real” food, here are a few free apps that can help you better navigate the concourse on your next trip. (more…)
Now boarding: Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner.
By Mark Chesnut
In September, All Nippon Airways became the first airline to receive the brand-new, much-delayed Boeing 787 Dreamliner jet. Passengers on the new plane will be among the first to experience the latest features of aircraft interior design, but new features are turning up on other planes as well. Here are a few things you might notice in the cabin on your future flights.
Airbus A380
This massive, double-decker airliner features a host of luxurious amenities, including first class “shower spas” (on Emirates) and first class cabins designed by Poltrona Frau for Singapore Airlines. This year, Korean Air is debuting an actual, physical duty-free shop on its planes. (more…)
Detroit is targeting the meetings market. Credit: Shawn Wilson.
By Mark Chesnut
The “Motor City” moniker may refer to automobiles, but the city of Detroit — home to a bustling international airport that is a major Delta hub — is increasingly pushing to be known as a motor that drives meetings, conventions and business travel.
Downtown Detroit has increasingly more to offer business travelers. Cobo Center, a conference and exhibition center, is undergoing a $300 million rebirth that has resulted in 25,000 square feet of additional event space. The Cobo Arena, the former home of the Detroit Pistons, is being relaunched as a 40,000-square-foot ballroom. (more…)
By Mark Chesnut
Few people would choose to vacation at an airport hotel, but when it comes to convenience, these strategically placed properties are among the best options for anyone looking to catch a flight or make a quick business trip. But not all tarmac-adjacent guest rooms are created equal. Here are a few of the best choices around the nation.
Aloft Denver International Airport
Starwood’s relatively new aloft brand, which aims to combine style elements from W Hotels with value prices, offers a fresh-faced option for travelers stopping in Denver. The property features the brand’s trademark cheery colors and contemporary, loft-style decor, as well as 1,500 square feet of meeting space. (more…)
Airport oasis: the Delta Sky Club
By Mark Chesnut
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax at the airport or somewhere to get business done in between flights, airline clubs can be the closest thing to an oasis of calm at the airport. Here is a sample of what you can expect to pay at the major airline’s lounges — and what you can expect to get for the money (elite-level members of an airline’s frequent flyer program often can take advantage of a reduced club membership fee; rates listed). (more…)
Eco style: The Hotel Wilshire in Los Angeles
By Mark Chesnut
From new hotel options to an airport expansion that will accommodate gigantic 21st-century aircraft, there is always something new for travelers to discover in Los Angeles. Whether you’re planning a California vacation or an important business trip, check out these fresh ideas for that next visit.
Los Angeles hotels
New hotel options in the Los Angeles area include The Hotel Wilshire, which debuted in September with 74 eco-friendly rooms set in a six-story former medical office building, and the Shore Hotel, which opened in Santa Monica in September. (more…)
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