Princess Cruises | News
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 7, 2008Newest Love Boat, Ruby Princess, Sails into Fort Lauderdale Romance-Filled Events Celebrate Ship’s Debut SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (November 4, 2008) – A spray of ruby-colored water from two escorting fireboats welcomed Ruby Princess, the newest ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, into Fort Lauderdale today. The ship arrived to begin... Read More
For good advice, seek a travel specialist
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 1, 2008A view of the French town of Albi -- known as The Pink City because of its use of pink bricks -- from the gardens near the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum Photo by Jane Larson, Witte Travel & Tours Posted by Sue Schroder | Booth Michigan Travel Editor Article taken from... Read More
Should you consider using a travel agent?
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 1, 2008"While most travelers were trying to get through to their airlines, I was sitting at my computer rescheduling and rerouting our clients." That's what a travel agent I know told me about coping with the disruptions of Hurricane Ike. And it raises again the issue of why—despite the Internet—so many... Read More
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 Embarks on 100th Transatlantic Crossing
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 19, 2008September 18, 2008 – As Queen Mary 2 prepares to sail her 100th Transatlantic Crossing, Cunard Line reveals the captivating statistics that illustrate the Line’s singular hold on the bygone glamour that defines their Transatlantic travel experience. The only company offering regularly scheduled Transatlantic service via flagship Queen Mary 2,... Read More
CONTINENTAL AIRLINES ANNOUNCES FEE FOR FIRST CHECKED BAG ON DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 9, 2008EliteAccess customers are exempt; OnePass program changes also announced HOUSTON, Sep. 5, 2008 - Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) today announced a $15 service fee for the first checked bag for certain customers who purchase economy-class tickets. The service fee will not apply to EliteAccess customers, including those seated in First... Read More
Cunard Line Announces 2010 World Cruises
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 9, 2008Unique, new East-West route for Queen Mary 2 features ship’s maiden visit to South Africa Queen Victoria plans three U.S. embarkation ports, plus 11 maiden calls and three overnights September 4, 2008 – Cunard’s two modern luxury liners, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, will depart in January 2010 on... Read More
Money-Saving Travel Tips - Save on Summer Travel
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 21, 2008How to Save on Summer Travel - With Rising Gas and Air Prices Find Ways Save! Courtesy of TravelSense.org "Whether you are traveling internationally, by car or just for the weekend, costs are going up and it is important to save on the small things," said ASTA President and... Read More
Eiffel Tower getting a makeover to improve visits
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 15, 2008By Gaelle Faure, Associated Press Writer PARIS — The Eiffel Tower, host to nearly 7 million visitors per year, is about to get a makeover, the goal to make their experience a happier one. Its directors unveiled a $267 million, 10-year plan Wednesday to upgrade the monument for the 21st... Read More
Important Changes to Downtown Disney Area
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 3, 2008Important Changes to Downtown Disney Area at the Walt Disney World Resort Walt Disney World® Resort wants to share some important news about Downtown Disney® Pleasure Island. All the nightclubs on Pleasure Island will close after Sept. 27, 2008. So beginning Sept. 28, 2008, the Water Park Fun & More... Read More
Air travel experts warn friendly skies are thing of the past
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 1, 2008By Jon Hilkevitch | Tribune reporter June 25, 2008 Did you hear the one about the passenger who was charged an extra $15 by the airline to lose his first checked bag? And another $25 for a second bag mistakenly loaded onto an airliner to Calcutta instead of Cincinnati? That... Read More
Loyal Princess Passengers Receive New Launch Discounts
Breaking Travel NewsPosted May 6, 2008Princess Captain's Circle Members Rewarded with Extra Discount for Early Bookings SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 5, 2008) - Loyal Princess passengers who book early to reserve their favorite destination and accommodations can now receive extra savings with the line's new Princess Captain's Circle Launch Savings benefit. This new discount offers... Read More
Northwest Starts Charging for Second Bag
Breaking Travel NewsPosted April 2, 2008Article courtesy of Modern Agent's Travel Pulse Northwest Airlines announced that it is matching several other U.S. network carriers and implementing a $25 charge for the customer's second checked bag. The fee is applied each way. Coach class customers may continue to check one piece of luggage free of charge.... Read More
CLIA ALERT: Important Cruise Passport Travel Information
Breaking Travel NewsPosted April 1, 2008FINAL Passport Rule Issued for Land and Sea Borders Yesterday, the Departments of Homeland Security and of State issued the final rulemaking concerning the requirements of passports for land and sea border crossings under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. After years of development following 9/11, this ruling is the end... Read More
Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members Update
Breaking Travel NewsPosted March 6, 2008Dear Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members, It is nearing the end of the deadline for you to cancel with a full refund from Norwegian Cruise Line. That deadline is Friday, March 7th. All cancellations have to be in to the cruise line by 5:00 p.m. EST. Our office has contacted... Read More
Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members
Breaking Travel NewsPosted February 21, 2008Dear Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members, We are making progress on the new arrangements for your Hawaiian Island cruise in November! Witte Travel & Tours has completed the first phase of the switchover from NCL's Pride of Aloha to the Pride of America. Everyone who had a deposited reservation on... Read More
Holland America Line’s Touring Explorer Coach
Breaking Travel NewsPosted February 20, 2008Holland America Line’s Touring Explorer Coach Visits Witte Travel & Tours The only stop in West Michigan Learn why Alaska and the Yukon are a Favorite Cruise and CruiseTour Destination GRAND RAPIDS, Mich, – Holland America Line’s popular Explorer Coach Program is back by popular demand and features three beautiful... Read More
Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members Update
Breaking Travel NewsPosted February 15, 2008Dear Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members, It has been a couple of days since our last communication and we would like to update you on the progress of our cruise. First of all, please let me thank each and every one of you for your kind words and patience, while... Read More
Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members
Breaking Travel NewsPosted February 13, 2008Dear Harmony in Hawaii Cruise Members, Norwegian Cruise Line notified Witte Travel & Tours this morning, February 12, that the Pride of Aloha, the ship on which you were scheduled to cruise, will not be sailing on November 9th. This ship has been sold and will leave the NCL fleet... Read More
Witte Travel & Tours Welcomes Two New Employees
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 15, 2008Witte Travel & Tours welcomes Jennifer Hanna as a Group Tour Account Executive, specializing in European performance and heritage tours for high schools, colleges, churches and community groups and Antonia Van Os as a Vacation Travel Consultant specializing in family vacations, honeymoons, destination weddings and adventure travel.... Read More
Princess' New Chef's Table Dinners
Breaking Travel NewsPosted January 9, 2008Princess' New Chef's Table Dinners to Roll Out Fleetwide Private Gastronomic Gathering a Resounding Success with Culinary Enthusiasts SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (January 2, 2007) - Princess' Chef's Table, the exclusive dining experience that debuted to rave reviews earlier this year aboard Emerald Princess, will now be introduced across the line's... Read More
CLIA Update: Travel Document Changes
Breaking Travel NewsPosted January 9, 2008Travel Document Changes Effective Jan. 31, 2008 Oral representation of citizenship will no longer be accepted Today (December 21, 2007), Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that effective January 31, 2008, all travelers, including U.S. citizens, entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry will no longer... Read More
Cruise Fuel Surcharges
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 23, 2007In light of the recent fuel surcharge announcements released by the majority of cruise lines, we wanted to provide you with centralized access to information from some of our preferred cruise suppliers. Below are links to letters from the cruise lines addressed to customers explaining their rationale for imposing the... Read More
Witte Travel & Tours Expands Vacation Travel and Group Tour Services
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 5, 2007GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Witte Travel & Tours recently sold its Business Travel division to a local travel agency as part of the company’s plan to expand its Vacation and Group Travel services. This change in Witte’s business mix is in response to the growing number of consumers seeking professional... Read More
COZUMEL TOURISM BACK ON TRACK
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 22, 2007COZUMEL, Mexico (Aug. 21, 2007) - The island of Cozumel experienced only tropical storm winds, as Hurricane Dean moved through Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula early Tuesday morning on August 21. Cozumel is in excellent shape and the island's tourism infrastructure is completely intact. According to Raul Marrufo, Director of the Cozumel... Read More
Peru Earthquake Damage
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 22, 2007Earthquake Damage circumscribed only the regions of Ica ( Chincha, Paracas, part of Ica ) Cusco, Puno, Arequipa, Nazca , North and Jungle of Peru located more than 800 km from the affected area, maintain normal tourist operations The Peruvian nation was in deep shock following the earthquake that occurred... Read More
Apple Vacations Oahu Packages Fight Breast Cancer
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 22, 2007(courtesy of Modern Agent, published on August 16, 2007) Apple Vacations is partnering with the Oahu Visitors Bureau to promote Travel Pink, Travel Oahu in support of the Hawaii Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen For the Cure in its fight against breast cancer. A $50 donation to the local... Read More
Update on Temporary Repeal of Passport Requirement for Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Bermuda
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 13, 2007Courtesy of ASTA As announced on June 8, U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda who have applied for, but have not yet received passports, can temporarily (through Sept. 30) enter and depart from the United States by air with a valid government-issued photo identification and State... Read More
Important Information regarding Passports
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 11, 2007WASHINGTON – The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security announced June 7, 2007 that U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda who have applied for but not yet received passports can nevertheless temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued... Read More
Princess Cruises Announces Next "Gem" of a Ship, Ruby Princess, Will Debut in Caribbean
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 11, 2007Sister Ship to Emerald Princess and Crown Princess Launches in November 2008 SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (June 4, 2007) - Princess Cruises will add another 'gem' to its fleet in November 2008, with the debut of Ruby Princess. The line has unveiled the ship's name along with its inaugural deployment -... Read More
Royal Princess to be Named on June 14 in Picturesque Portofino
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 4, 2007SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (May 1, 2007) - The christening ceremony for the newest addition to Princess' fleet, Royal Princess, has been re-scheduled for June 14 in the picturesque port of Portofino, Italy. Originally to have been held in Santorini in a double naming ceremony with Emerald Princess on May 12,... Read More
New Orleans is Ready for Visitors
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: April 20, 2007Frequently Asked Questions for Visitors to New Orleans that the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. has compiled What can I expect when I visit New Orleans? All visitors want to know if the authentic New Orleans experience still exists and the answer is a resounding yes! That... Read More
TSA Holiday 3-1-1 Tips
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 27, 2006Knowing that holiday travel brings inexperienced and infrequent travelers to airports, we'd like to provide holiday-specific 3-1-1 information to help you get through the security checkpoints smoothly and quickly. TSA's 3-1-1 program means: Liquids, aerosols and gels must be in containers three ounces or less, Items must be put in... Read More
Passports Required for Air Travel to United States as of January 23, 2007
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 27, 2006Office of the Spokesman U.S. State Department Washington, DC November 22, 2006 The Departments of State and Homeland Security announced today that the requirement for citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to present a passport to enter the United States when arriving by air from any part... Read More
US Airways Proposes to Merge with Delta
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 15, 2006(A press release by H. Travis Christ, Vice President, Sales and Marketing - US Airways) By now you may have heard that US Airways has made a proposal to merge with Delta Air Lines. Over the coming days there will certainly be much discussion in the media about this proposal,... Read More
New EU Liquids Hand Baggage Policy
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 6, 2006Effective November 6th 2006, the European Union, including the United Kingdom, will implement new security rules that permit the carrying of liquids, gels, and pastes in limited quantities through airport security in passenger hand baggage. This new policy applies to all passengers on all carriers who are departing from, or... Read More
New Bangkok International Airport - United Airlines Schedule
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 25, 2006The new Bangkok International Airport will open to commercial airline flights on September 27, 2006. This new facility will provide customers traveling on United Airlines with an enhanced travel experience to and from Thailand. United’s schedule will transition as follows: UA 837 / 27 Sep NRT – BKK 18:25 –... Read More
UK Security Update: Carry-On Bag Size Increased
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 25, 2006The United Kingdom's Department for Transport has increased the size of the one carry-on item that passengers are allowed to take onboard an airplane and modified its policy regarding carry-on musical instruments. Also, passengers are now allowed to take solid cosmetics in their carry-on luggage. The one carry-on bag restriction... Read More
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Luggage Restrictions
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 30, 2006Luggage Security Notice As part of current security procedures, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screeners may open your checked luggage. If your suitcase is unlocked, TSA will simply open it and screen it. However, if it is locked and TSA needs to open it, the locks may have to be broken.... Read More
British Airways Implements UK Government's New Restrictions on Cabin Baggage
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 21, 2006British Airways is implementing the UK Government's new restrictions on cabin baggage on all flights departing UK airports. Customers are advised to check this information regularly before they travel to ensure they have the very latest information. These restrictions were last updated on August 21, 2006 at 13:00 (BST) Customers... Read More
ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) Response to UK Terrorist Plot
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 16, 2006In response to last week's announcement by UK authorities that they foiled an alleged terrorist plot to blow up 10 planes en-route from the UK to the United States, the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) issued the following statement: "We applaud the efforts of the UK and U.S. authorities... Read More
Updated Security Proceedures for U.S. and U.K Airports
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 14, 2006United States Airport Security Procedures US Threat Level: The threat level was lowered from red or severe to orange or high for in-bound flights from the UK. The threat level remains at ORANGE for all domestic and international flights operating in or out of the United States. US Security Procedures... Read More
India - U.S. Embassy Security Warning
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 14, 2006Witte Travel has been notified of a terrorist threat in New Delhi and Mumbi. Below is information provided by the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. It is recommended that U.S. citizens traveling in India register with the local U.S. Embassy in order to receive up-to-date embassy bulletins. At this time,... Read More
Update on Air Travel Security Situation
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 14, 2006Witte Travel will continue to monitor the air travel security situation and provide updates as needed. The following information has been updated and compiled to assist in expedited travel for our client travelers. Supplier Updates Flight schedules are slowly returning to normal in the United States. European airports are still... Read More
American Airlines Apologizes for Delays
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 14, 2006American Airlines apologizes for delays its customers are experiencing due to the procedural changes and increased screening of passengers at airports. Due to the delays American has cancelled three of its 16 daily flights from London Heathrow to the United States. The other 13 flights out of London are scheduled... Read More
CLIA Statement Regarding Homeland Security Change in Nation's Aviation Threat Level
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 10, 2006In light of the information made known today of the threats against flights from the United Kingdom to the United States, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) assures passengers that cruise ship safety is this industry's highest priority. The U.S. Coast Guard has not raised the security level for the... Read More
Statement from Virgin Atlantic Airways on Increased Airport Security
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 10, 2006Virgin Atlantic Airways has been informed by government agencies in both the US and the UK of the need for extra restrictions to assure the security of air travel. As such, additional security measures have been put in place at US and UK airports. The safety and security of our... Read More
Status of Trains in Europe
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 10, 2006Courtesy of Rail Europe Due to the August 10 disruptions on flights to and from the UK, we will accommodate our clients as follows:One exchange of train tickets without penalty for those scheduled to travel from today through September 1, 2006. If the traveler's flight is cancelled on August 10... Read More
United Airlines Revises Ticket Policies for Customers Affected by U.K. Security Changes
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 10, 2006CHICAGO, Aug. 10, 2006 — United Airlines has revised its ticketing policies for its customers with travel plans to and from London affected by today's security issues in the United Kingdom. These revised policies apply to all customers flying Aug. 10-Sept. 1, with tickets purchased on or before Aug. 10... Read More
DHS Elevates Threat Level & New TSA Security Requirement
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 10, 2006In response to a serious terrorist threat to international aviation security, the Secretary of Homeland Security has elevated the Homeland Security Advisory System Threat Condition to Severe, or Red, for all commercial flights from the United Kingdom to the United States, and to High, or Orange, for all other international... Read More
Disney Announces Walt Disney World Resort Peace of Mind Tropical Weather Policy
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 9, 2007Fees Waived for Cancellations as well as Re-bookings Disney Destinations and the Walt Disney Travel Co. have announced a new policy providing greater flexibility to modify or cancel Walt Disney World® Resort advance reservations in the event of a hurricane warning. During the 2006 hurricane season, in the event a... Read More
Iberia Regrets Inconvenience To Passengers
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 6, 2006Madrid, July 5, 2006 In anticipation of the strike called by the SEPLA pilots union for the week of July 10-16, Iberia expresses its regret for the inconvenience to passengers, and pledges to do all in its power to alleviate the disruptions to travel plans occasioned by this strike. The... Read More
Quick Facts on the largest cruise ship in the world the "Freedom of the Seas"
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 14, 2006The Freedom Class builds upon the amenities of the Voyager Class Ships, here are the key standouts: POOL DECK: the pool deck is incomparable — it is truly a water park at sea. The new H2O Zone is remarkable. This is an area (supposed to be for kids, but... Read More
New Markets for United Airlines
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 12, 2006Effective September 6, 2006, United and United Express will begin service in six new North American markets. United will resume daily nonstop service between San Francisco and Toronto with an A319 aircraft. This market, which was last flown in October 2001, will operate into the main international bank at San... Read More
Royal Caribbean International's Freedom of the Seas Makes Waves On Her Maiden U.S. Arrival
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 10, 2006World's Largest and Most Innovative Ship Doubles As An Active Vacation Destination. MIAMI, May 10, 2006 - With her energetic FlowRider® surf park, cantilevered whirlpools and colorful H20 Zone silhouetted against the backdrop of The Statue of Liberty, Freedom of the Seas, the most anticipated cruise ship to take to... Read More
United Airlines Enhances Customers' Wireless Access to Real-Time Travel Information
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: March 27, 2006As part of its continuous improvement of the customer experience, United Airlines is enhancing customers' wireless access to flight information by adding real-time access to other pertinent travel information such as city guides, maps and weather reports via hand-held devices. United is partnering with iAnywhere, a subsidiary of Sybase (NYSE:SY),... Read More
Northwest Airlines Introduces Paid Seat Assignment
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: March 15, 2006Northwest Airlines today launched Coach Choice, a new paid seat assignment product designed to provide added choice and comfort, particularly to late-booking business travelers, by saving some preferred coach seat assignments until check-in. For a modest fee of $15 per segment, customers can confirm reserved aisle and exit row seats... Read More
Despite Recent Disappearances, Cruise Ships Are Safe Havens
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 20, 2006Though several high-profile disappearances have recently raised questions about safety on cruise ships, the Los Angeles Times reports that cruising remains one of the most secure ways to travel. Ships use surveillance cameras, security guards and even entertainment staff to ensure the safety of passengers. But passengers must be careful... Read More
Cancun Speeds Toward Complete Recovery
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 16, 2006Mexico Tourism Secretary Rodolfo Elizondo kicked off the start of the 24 hour per day, seven day a week dredging that will restore Cancun's beaches on Feb. 1. The end result will be beaches of an average size of 27 yards along the 7.5 mile stretch from Punta Cancun south... Read More
ASTA Instrumental in Passage of Passport Substitute Document
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 18, 2006Alexandria, Va., January 17, 2006 – The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) announced today that U.S Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff have approved the PASS Card (People Access Security Service)–a passport-substitute travel document for travelers crossing U.S. borders in the Western... Read More
Hilton Hotels Corporation Creates Luxury Brand Line
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 18, 2006Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced that the company is introducing a new luxury hotel line that will extend the cachet of New York's legendary Waldorf=Astoria® hotel. Unveiled today as "The Waldorf=Astoria Collection®," the new, elite brand designation will build upon the legend that company founder Conrad N. Hilton called "The... Read More
Celebrity Cruises Leaps Toward New Century
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 17, 2006MIAMI - Celebrity Cruises has made a giant leap toward transforming a century into a millennium in just five weeks. The line has signed with Fincantieri in Palermo, Italy, to handle the significant revitalization of its 77,713-ton Century cruise ship in 2006. The approximately $55-million makeover designed to incorporate on... Read More
Walt Disney World Resort Withstands Hurricane Wilma
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 25, 2005The Walt Disney World Resort safely withstood Hurricane Wilma, maintaining power throughout the storm and housing tens of thousands of Guests in its hotels. Now that the hurricane has exited the Central Florida area, the Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot are open for Guests to enjoy Monday, October 24, 2005.... Read More
Disney Theme Parks Brace for Wilma
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 24, 2005Due to the potential of tropical storm force winds associated with Hurricane Wilma, all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, the Downtown Disney area and Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex will not open October 24, 2005. Weather permitting, the Walt Disney World Resort may... Read More
Additional Information Required by US Government as of October 4, 2005
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 4, 2005US Customs and Border Protection authorities will require airlines to provide additional passenger information as of October 4, 2005, specifically the passenger's country of residence and full address during his/her stay in the US (hotel or private accommodation). This requirement comes in addition to the existing personal and passport data... Read More
US Airways, America West Complete Merger
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 28. 2005Courtesy of Modern Agent Analysts said it couldn't be done, but it certainly was. US Airways Group, Inc., effective September 27, finalized its transaction enabling America West and US Airways to begin operating as one carrier as US Airways. Customers should continue to book directly with US Airways or America... Read More
Cruise Ships Avoid Hurricane Rita
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 22, 2005Courtesy of Modern Agent As Hurricane Rita threatened Galveston, cruise lines kept a close eye on the storm's progress. Royal Caribbean International said the Rhapsody of the Seas' return to the Port of Galveston would be delayed until Monday, September 26, a day later than scheduled. Passengers booked on the... Read More
Cruise Lines Monitor Hurricane Rita
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 21, 2005Courtesy of Modern Agent As Hurricane Rita lashed Southern Florida and headed for Texas, cruise lines monitored the storm and closed their offices. Carnival Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International were keeping a close eye on whether the storm would affect sailings. The Carnival Victory September 18, 2005 departure from... Read More
Northwest and Delta File for Chapter 11 Reorganization
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 16, 2005Northwest Airlines has voluntarily filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. The bankruptcy process will enable Northwest to continue its transformation in conjunction with the permanent changes that have affected the airline industry, particularly the doubling of fuel prices over the past two years. According... Read More
UAL Files Plan of Reorganization
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 7, 2005CHICAGO, September 7, 2005 - UAL Corporation, the holding company whose primary subsidiary is United Airlines, today filed a Plan of Reorganization (POR) and Disclosure Statement with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The joint plan of reorganization includes UAL, United and 26 other subsidiaries that... Read More
Flight Cancellations Continue in Wake of Storm
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 31, 2005(Courtesy of Modern Agent) Hurricane Katrina forced scores more flight cancellations to New Orleans and other Southern cities Tuesday as airlines juggled their schedules around one of the worst storms on record. For the short term, airlines were scrambling to rearrange flights within the limitations set by Katrina's devastating path... Read More
Passport Requirements To Caribbean And Mexico For U.S. Citizens
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 29, 2005The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 requires that by January 1, 2008, travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada to have a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or re-enter the United States. In order to facilitate the implementation of this... Read More
United Airlines Reports $113 Million Operating Profit
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 29, 2005(Courtesy of Modern Agent) UAL Corporation, the holding company whose primary subsidiary is United Airlines, today filed its July Monthly Operating Report with the United States Bankruptcy Court. The company reported an operating profit of $113 million for July 2005. This represents a $62 million improvement in operating profit over... Read More
Hurricane Katrina Forces New Orleans Evacuation
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 29, 2005(Courtesy of Modern Agent) New Orleans was braced for Hurricane Katrina at press time, as forecasters predicted the Category 5 storm could drive a wall of water over the city's levees. With 160 mph winds, the storm was expected to make landfall as a Category 4 or 5 storm Monday... Read More
Lucerne and Central Switzerland: Life after the flooding goes on!
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 29, 2005The flooding in Lucerne and Central Switzerland has receded appreciably. The danger due to blockage as a result of trees and debris floating in the water has also subsided. Most of the tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants and shops in Lucerne will be accessible again and operating during their regular opening... Read More
Northwest Airlines Continues to Operate Amid AMFA Strike
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 22, 2005Northwest continues to operate its normal flight schedule despite the strike by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA). The airline’s load factor through noon (CDT) on Sunday, August 21, was 80.9%, an indicator that customers continue to have confidence in the airline’s reliability and operations. In the first week of... Read More
United Offers Travel Options to Northwest Ticket-holders
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 22, 2005CHICAGO, August 20, 2005 - United Airlines is ready to meet the needs of Northwest Airlines' ticketed passengers affected by the strike at Northwest Airlines. "United has put policies in place to accommodate Northwest's disserviced customers and help get them where they need to be," said John Tague, United's... Read More
Northwest To Add Nonstops Between Midwest And Las Vegas
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 12, 2005MINNEAPOLIS — (August 10, 2005) — Northwest Airlines today announced that it will add more nonstop flights between Las Vegas and four cities in America's "Heartland." Beginning October 30, Northwest will offer nonstop service from Las Vegas to Des Moines, Grand Rapids, Madison and Sioux Falls. "Northwest's new flights will... Read More
Jamaica Open for Business After Emily
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 19, 2005Courtesy of ModernAgent The Hon. Aloun N'Dombet-Assamba, Minister of Industry and Tourism, reported that Hurricane Emily passed Jamaica and the Hurricane Warning has been officially lifted island-wide. All tourism regions have reported little or no damage. Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston is now open, as of 9:00 a.m. Monday... Read More
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula Survives Emily
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 19, 2005Courtesy of ModernAgent Despite reports of roofs ripped off luxury hotels and thousands of tourists stranded, the Riviera Maya region of Mexico said that there has been no loss of life reported following Hurricane Emily. In addition, the region's main airport, Cancun International Airport, has been open since 9 a.m.... Read More
Visas Not Required for US Citizens Entering Ukraine Within Six Months Of Previous Trip
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 18, 2005Please, be informed that the President of Ukraine signed the Decree No. 1008/2005 "On the Establishment of Visa-Free Regime for Citizens of the United States of America" on June 30, 2005. According to the mentioned Decree, starting July 1, 2005 visas are not required for the US citizens who enter... Read More
Northwest Discontinues PFC Absorption and Introduces Fare Increases on Select Routings/Flights
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 12, 2005Northwest Airlines has discontinued absorption of Passenger Facility Charges (PFCs) July 12, 2005. GDS will stop absorbing PFCs effective July 13, 2005, at 12:01 a.m. Northwest also increased fares for certain domestic connecting itineraries. Where these changes apply, the result is a price increase of between $1.50 and $4.50 each... Read More
Royal Caribbean International's Newly Lengthened Enchantment of the Seas Re-enters Service
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 7, 2005Extensively Renovated Ship Debuts at Cape Liberty Cruise Port with Line Firsts and Favorites. MIAMI, July 6, 2005 - Royal Caribbean International's Enchantment of the Seas re-enters service on July 7 following an extreme makeover that included the addition of a new 73-foot midsection and bow-to-stern renovations. The undertaking introduced... Read More
Rail Europe: Urgent London Events Update
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 7, 2005RELEASED BY WITTE TRAVEL PARTNER, RAIL EUROPE, 7/7/05 We are all saddened by the tragic events in London today. In an effort to update our customers on the status of travel, we have received the following information from our various British partners: EUROSTAR:Continuing to run a near normal service with... Read More
Delta Customers May Change Travel Plans Without Penalties or Fees
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 7, 2005Tropical Storm Dennis creates low ceilings, high winds and heavy rain in the Caribbean region. ATLANTA, July 6, 2005 — Delta Air Lines' customers booked on flights traveling to or from select cities in the Caribbean region may make adjustments to their travel schedule due to the impact of Tropical... Read More
Delta Connection Launches Only Non-stop Jet Service Between Kalamazoo and Atlanta
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 7, 2005Daily roundtrip service connects customers to the world ATLANTA, July 6, 2005 — Customers in Kalamazoo, Michigan — the city that describes itself as easy to get to and hard to leave — will find air travel even easier this fall thanks to Delta Connection carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines' (ASA)... Read More
United Airlines Initiates Exit Process
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 6, 2005CHICAGO, July 1, 2005 - UAL Corporation, the holding company whose primary subsidiary is United Airlines, today began the process for exiting bankruptcy protection by proposing a timeline that keeps the Company on track to emerge from Chapter 11 this fall. Under the proposed schedule, United intends to file its... Read More
Witte Travel Designated an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 6, 2005Witte Travel & Tours has been designated by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts as an "Authorized Disney Vacation Planner" (not an agent of The Walt Disney Company or its affiliates), based on its strong support in selling Disney vacations. Witte Travel has been in business in Grand Rapids for 30... Read More
United Airlines and the International Association of Machinists Reach an Agreement
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 1, 2005From a recent email from United Airlines Following a constant, and good faith engagement United Airlines and the International Association of Machinists (IAM) has reached an agreement in principle on long-term cost reductions. We are pleased to reach this agreement in principle with the IAM, which if ratified will effectively... Read More
Bankruptcy Court Approves the Settlement Agreement Between United and the PBGC
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 12, 2005"The Bankruptcy Court's decision to approve the settlement agreement that United reached with the PBGC is a significant step forward in this company's restructuring," states a briefing from United Airlines. Under the agreement, the PBGC may initiate the termination of all of United's defined benefit pension plans pursuant to its... Read More
American Airlines Expands, Adds Variety to "Food On Board" Program to Satisfy Passengers' Palates
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 5, 2005Hungry passengers flying in American Airlines main cabin have a few more choices these days. Spurred by favorable passenger and employee response to its "Food on Board" program, American has increased the number of routes on which snack boxes are available for purchase, added variety to its sandwich items and... Read More
Disney Announces "The Happiest Celebration on Earth"
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 5, 2005Fifty years of inspiring magic, fulfilling dreams and entertaining the world have all led up to this. Disney Theme Parks around the world are kicking off the biggest party in Disney history celebrating 50 years of magic at Disney Parks and Resorts with the "Happiest Celebration On Earth." The "Happiest... Read More
American Airlines Increases Domestic Fares, High Fuel Costs Cited as Reason
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 2, 2005American Airlines today filed to increase most domestic U.S. and U.S.-Canada fares by $5 one-way and $10 round-trip, effective immediately. The increase is to help offset the continuing high cost of jet fuel. With crude oil remaining at record high levels - above $50 per barrel - all airlines have... Read More
Important Policy Changes from Continental Airlines
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 2, 2005Passport & Security UpdateEffective December 31, 2005, all nationals will be required to hold a passport to enter the United States when traveling from the Caribbean, Central and South America. This will primarily impact U.S. nationals traveling to/from the Caribbean and Panama since a passport is not required for entry... Read More
Northwest/KLM Modify Nonrefundable Ticket Change Policy
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: April 15, 2005Effective for tickets issued on or after April 15, 2005, Northwest Airlines and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines have modified their policy on when customers can make changes to nonrefundable tickets, including WorldPerks frequent flyer program award travel tickets. Currently, domestic tickets expire one year after the original outbound travel date... Read More
American Airlines and SN Brussels Airlines Launch Interline Electronic Ticketing
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: April 15, 2005American Airlines and SN Brussels Airlines have launched interline electronic ticketing (IET), bringing the number of domestic and international airlines providing IET in cooperation with American to 26. Customers can use a single electronic ticket (e-ticket) when their itineraries include travel on American and SN Brussels Airlines. American currently flies... Read More
American Airlines International Baggage Allowance Change
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: March 21, 2005Effective March 1, 2005, the domestic free checked baggage weight allowance of 50lbs was expanded to all American Airlines destinations, including Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Mexico, Caribbean, Central and South America, Europe and Asia. All bags weighing between 51lbs and 70lbs are subject to a $25 USD overweight fee.... Read More
Northwest Airlines Announces Nonstop Service Between Lansing and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: March 7, 2005Northwest Airlines today announced new nonstop service between Lansing and convenient Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. One daily flight will be offered beginning June 9. As a result of this new flight - the only nonstop service between Capital City Airport and the nation's capital - Northwest's existing schedule between... Read More
American Anticipates Offering Service To China In April 2006
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 24, 2005American Airlines will begin making plans to provide nonstop service from Chicago O'Hare International Airport to Shanghai, China starting in April 2006, subject to government approval. The announcement follows the tentative decision by the U.S. Department of Transportation to grant American the authority to fly to China from the... Read More
Celebrity Cruises Partners With National Geographic
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 11, 2005Guests see the world through acclaimed photojournalists' eyes. The magazine known for presenting stunning images from around the world, National Geographic Traveler is bringing its imagemakers to Celebrity Cruises. The two organizations have teamed up to bring noted photojournalists onboard for the line's "Celebrity Discoveries" series, one of the most... Read More
Celebrity Cruises Announces Plans To Sail In Asia-Pacific
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 25, 2005MIAMI - Vividly illustrating its commitment to offering exotic travel experiences in faraway lands, Celebrity Cruises today announced plans to sail in the Far East and South Pacific in 2006. The 1,950-guest Summit, ranked first in service and second overall in Condé Nast Traveler's "Best Cruise Ships in the World"... Read More
New Exciting Xpeditions Announcement from Celebrity Cruises
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 19, 2005MIAMI - January 19, 2005 - Just one year after launching "Celebrity Xpeditions," an extension of Celebrity Cruises offering elite, exotic travel experiences, the line is making good on its promise to offer one Xpeditions experience on every major cruise itinerary. "Our goal at Celebrity is to fulfill dreams, and... Read More
American Airlines Announces New Domestic Fares
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 11, 2005(courtesy of American Airlines) No Saturday-night Stay Gives More People More Access to Great Low Fares. American Airlines today broadly matched Delta's new fare structure, reducing the highest fares and lowering fares for last-minute travel in thousands of markets throughout the continental U.S. In most markets, the Saturday- night stay... Read More
American Matches Delta's New Fare Structure
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 7, 2005(Courtesy of Travel Weekly) FORT WORTH, Texas -- American said January 6 it “broadly matched” the new fare structure Delta implemented January 5 for travel in the continental U.S., but American’s match of Delta’s SimpliFares is not as simple as it sounds. American did reduce its highest and lowest fares... Read More
Delta Simplifies Fare Structure
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 6, 2004(Courtesy of Travel Weekly) ATLANTA -- Delta simplified its fare structure January 5 for all travel within the continental U.S., slashing walkup fares by as much as 50%, eliminating the Saturday-night stay requirement and other restrictions, and reducing the categories of fares to six in coach and two in first... Read More
Celebrity Cruises' New 2005 Century European and Transatlantic Sailings Open For Sale
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 4, 2005Century will sail a 14-night Eastbound Transatlantic voyage, on May 7, 2005, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Amsterdam, Netherlands and will visit King's Wharf, Bermuda; Vigo, Spain; Le Havre (Paris), France; and Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium. Prices start at $1,215 per person for outside accommodations. In addition, the Century will sail... Read More
Guaranteed Protection Should Bankrupt Airline Cease Service
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: December 10, 2004Congress Re-enacts Section 145: Consumers Guaranteed Protection Should Bankrupt Airline Cease ServicePassengers worried about flying on bankrupt airlines can breathe a sigh of relief, at least through November 19, 2005, thanks to the passage of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 by the U.S. House and Senate... Read More
Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises offer guests new way to stay in touch at sea
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: December 7, 2004Company Teams with Cingular Wireless and Maritime Telecommunications Network to Provide Cell Phone Service On Ships. Service Launched on Majesty of the Seas MIAMI - December 3, 2004 - Guests on Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises ships can soon use their personal cell phones to stay in touch while... Read More
Flight Attendants Lay Strike Groundwork
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 17, 2004Leaders of the USA's biggest flight attendants union Tuesday authorized a strike as members at struggling US Airways and United Airlines face new wage cuts. Flight attendants cheered the strike authorization announcement. The Association of Flight Attendants' board, meeting in Pittsburgh, unanimously approved strike authority to protest the airlines' use... Read More
Northwest Airlines Introduces International Fuel Surcharges
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 21, 2004The U.S. DOT reversed their stand on international fuel surcharges and will now allow airlines to file these surcharges in all markets. At the same time, they reinforced that to/from U.S. airlines cannot file individual security surcharges. In light of this NW/KL have taken the following actions which will be... Read More
Three Airports, Including Orlando International, Closed in Wake of Jeanne
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 27, 2004The FAA's Air Traffic Control System Command Center on Monday reported the following: Due to HURRICANE JEANNE, the Orlando International Airport (MCO) was closed as of September 26 at 12:00 PM EDT. The date/time when the airport is expected to reopen is not known. Due to HURRICANE IVAN, the MMCZ... Read More
Tampa International Airport Closed Because of Hurricane Jeanne
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 27, 2004The FAA's Air Traffic Control System Command Center on Monday reported the following: Due to JEANNE, the Tampa International Airport (TPA) was closed as of September 26 at 09:00 PM EDT. The date/time when the airport is expected to reopen is September 27 at 05:30 AM EDT. Passengers planning to... Read More
Walt Disney World Resort - Hurricane Watch
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 24, 2005The Walt Disney World Resort is currently monitoring Hurricane Jeanne. As of 5 p.m. eastern daylight time Thursday, September 23, the storm poses no immediate threat to the resort. All Disney-owned and -operated hotels and theme parks are open, and the ships of Disney Cruise Line continue operating out of... Read More
A Message From The Jamaica Tourist Board
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 14, 2004Dear Travel Partner: With the passing of Hurricane Ivan, we would like to thank you for your support over the past several days. Jamaica was spared a direct hit and for this we are grateful. Efforts are now underway to assess the overall damage and get life back to normal... Read More
U.S. Warns Citizens to Defer Travel to Indonesia
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 14, 2004U.S. Department of State - September 13, 2004 This Travel Warning updates security threat information for Indonesia, alerts American citizens to security concerns regarding identifiably western hotels, informs Americans of a September 9 terrorist bombing in Jakarta, and reminds travelers of the ongoing terrorist threat for Indonesia. The Department of... Read More
United Airlines Customers Earn Free Roundtrip Travel
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 14, 2004CHICAGO- United Airlines today invites customers to earn one free* United Economy® roundtrip ticket for every three qualifying flights purchased on United, United Express or Ted between September 7, 2004, and January 31, 2005. For every three flights purchased, eligible Mileage Plus® members can earn up to four free tickets... Read More
US Air Files Chapter 11 As Talks With Labor Unions Go Nowhere
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 13, 2003(Coutesy CNN) NEW YORK-- US Airways Group filed for bankruptcy protection Sunday for the second time in two years. The Chapter 11 filing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Alexandria, Va., came after the airline was unable to obtain $800 million in annual cost cuts from its workers' unions. The... Read More
iBank Reporting Tool Receives Security Upgrade
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 10, 2004This brief update is to inform you of an upcoming change to iBank connectivity. Changes will be made to the iBank web servers to allow user connections ONLY through SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) Encryption. This enhancement will dramatically increase security on the system including access to Online and Broadcast reports.... Read More
U.S. Warns of Possible Attacks on "Identifiably Western" Hotels in Indonesia
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 9, 2004(Courtesy of U.S. Department of State) This Travel Warning updates security threat information for Indonesia, alerts American citizens to security concerns regarding identifiably western hotels and reminds travelers of the ongoing terrorist threat for Indonesia. The Department of State continues to recommend that Americans defer all non-essential travel to Indonesia.... Read More
Walt Disney World® Resort/Central Florida Tourism Returns to Normal
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 8, 2004As communicated throughout the Labor Day weekend, the Walt Disney World Resort safely withstood the impact of Hurricane Frances, maintaining power throughout the course of the storm and sustaining only minimal horticultural damage. In an effort to keep cast and guests safe, Walt Disney World theme parks were closed Saturday... Read More
Hurricane Ivan Begins Its Sweep Through the Carribean
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 7, 2004BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (AP) - Hurricane Ivan blew off roofs and tore down trees Tuesday in Barbados as it churned toward Tobago and Grenada, where hundreds sought shelter just days after Frances swept through the Caribbean. Ivan raced toward the Windward Islands with sustained winds of 115 mph, making it a... Read More
Flight attendants threaten Christmas strike action at Qantas in Australia
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 7, 2004SYDNEY, Sept 7 (AFP) - Flight attendants threatened Tuesday to call a Christmas strike to protest plans by Australia's flag carrier Qantas to move 400 jobs overseas. The Flight Attendants Association of Australia said the company's 4,000 international flight attendants were also angry about plans to switch domestic crews to... Read More
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa After The Hurricane
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 7, 2004Hurricane Frances brushed the island of Turks & Caicos on Wednesday, inflicting only superficial damages. Guests of Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa are safe and sound, enjoying complimentary nights for the remainder of their scheduled trips. There are no structural impairments or electrical outages and food and beverage... Read More
Typhoon Songda Hits Northern Japan; Flights Canceled
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 7, 2004TOKYO, Sept. 7 (Kyodo) - A powerful typhoon landed on northern Kyushu on Tuesday morning, after bringing heavy rain and wind to Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures and injuring at least 29 people. Typhoon Songda became the seventh typhoon to land on the Japanese archipelago this year, marking a record number... Read More
Northwest Withdraws Booking Fees
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 3, 2004We are pleased to announce that effective immediately, Northwest has withdrawn its $3.75 one-way and $7.50 roundtrip per-ticket fee incurred by travel agencies, Travelocity and Expedia, in the U.S. and Canada, for tickets issued on Northwest for travel in the 50 United States. Northwest also announced other changes to the... Read More
State of Emergency Declared in Florida Ahead of Hurricane
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 2, 2004PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) - With a powerful Hurricane Frances looming off Florida, residents along more than 300 miles of the state's Atlantic coast rushed to buy water, gas and other supplies and fortified homes with storm shutters or plywood Thursday, while authorities urged more than a million people... Read More
Hurricane Frances Update: Disney Cruise Line Status
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 2, 2004Disney Cruise Line continues to monitor the storm and adapt operations to ensure the safety of Guests, Cast and Crew. The hurricane is predicted to pass through the Bahamas on Friday, September 3 and is expected to impact operations at Castaway Cay on Saturday, September 4. The Disney Wonder will... Read More
Hurricane Frances Strengthens, Prompts Cancellation of Flights
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: September 1, 2004SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) - Hurricane Frances gained strength as it swirled near Puerto Rico on Tuesday with 135-mph (215-kph) winds that were expected to graze the island before plowing through the Bahamas and heading for the southeastern United States. Some Puerto Ricans put up metal storm shutters to... Read More
Northwest Announces New Booking Fees
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 31, 2004Effective September 1, 2004, Northwest Airlines will begin imposing a $3.75 one way and $7.50 round trip ticketing fee on all domestic tickets purchased through various distribution channels, including travel agencies and other booking channels such as Travelocity and Expedia. These fees do not apply to international or trans-border tickets.... Read More
Chaos at Heathrow After Thousands Stranded From BA Cancellations
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 25, 2004LONDON (AP) Thousands of disgruntled vacationers were stranded at Heathrow Airport on Tuesday after British Airways canceled scores of flights because of staff shortages and technical hitches. Passengers at Europe's busiest airport slept on benches, joined long lines to rebook their flights or simply gave up and returned home as... Read More
More British Airways' Flight Cancellations Expected
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 24, 2004LONDON (AP) Thousands of British Airways passengers have been stranded by canceled flights and lengthy delays at Heathrow Airport because of staff shortages and technical problems at the airline. British Airways said Tuesday that it canceled three flights to the United States on Monday afternoon because of technical problems with... Read More
British Airways Strike Threat Averted
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 23, 2004The British Airways unions representing some of the airline’s ground staff in the UK have called off their strike threat for the August bank holiday weekend (August 27, 2004). "We appreciate that the last few days have been an uncertain and worrying time for our customers and we offer our... Read More
US Airways Chairman: Liquidation Possible
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 19, 2004(Courtesy of Reuters) NEW YORK - US Airways Group Inc.'s (UAIR) chairman said employees must agree to $800 million in new wage and benefit cuts within 30 days or the airline might be liquidated, the New York Times said on Thursday, citing an interview with Chairman David Bronner. The No.... Read More
British Airways Ground Staff To Strike August 27
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 19, 2004(Courtesy of Reuters) More than 8,000 British Airways staff will go on strike for 24 hours on August 27, their union said on Wednesday, after a majority of its members voted for industrial action over a wage dispute. The Transport & General Workers Union (TGWU), the largest union representing the... Read More
Airlines Agree To Reduce O'Hare Flights
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 19, 2004(Courtesy of Reuters) US airlines have agreed to limit flights into Chicago's O'Hare Airport at peak periods to stem record delays that have slowed aviation nationwide, federal officials said Wednesday. US domestic airlines have volunteered to cut arrivals to an average of 88 per hour between 7 a.m. and 8... Read More
U.S. Warns Its Nationals of Possible Election Violence in Venezuela
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 16, 2004This Public Announcement is being issued to update U.S. citizens on the possibility of violence surrounding the August 15 recall referendum and possible presidential election shortly thereafter in Venezuela. It supersedes the Public Announcement of June 4, 2004, and expires on November 15, 2004. The political situation in Venezuela remains... Read More
Mexico Travel Advisory
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 27, 2004(Courtesy of Garber Travel's) This Public Announcement is being issued to alert Americans to demonstrations and possible travel delays in Cancun due to the resignation of the city council in Cancun and the removal of the Mayor the weekend of July 18, 2004. On July 16, after the resignation of... Read More
SAS Cancels More Flights As Staff Crisis Continues
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 19, 2004Scandinavian airline group SAS has canceled another 38 flights to European destinations scheduled for July 24-25 because staff time off has left an inadequate number of employees to cover them. Reuters news agency reported Friday that as many as 3,000 passengers could be affected by the cancellations. The airline had... Read More
Statue of Liberty to Re-open August 3
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 13, 2004NEW YORK -- The Statue of Liberty, including the observation deck, will reopen to visitors August 3, 2004. Visitors will have a choice of two tours, both of which will include a visit to the Statue's original torch and a guided tour through the Statue of Liberty Museum. The tours... Read More
When it comes to airline vouchers, "Buyer Beware!" says the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA)
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: July 12, 2004All indications, including a recently released survey by ASTA and Fodor Travel Guides, show that travel spending is up and summer travel is expected to rise to the levels of summer 2001. While this may be good news for the airlines, travelers may be faced with some of the hassles... Read More
New Baggage Requirements - London
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 14, 2004Effective June 1, 2004, the maximum weight for all bags checked to/through/from any destination in Europe or Asia will be 70lbs/32kgs. American will no longer accept overweight baggage (70-100 lbs.) in these international markets. This policy is in conjunction with the British Airport Authority mandate prohibiting checked baggage into the... Read More
Official Travel Advice for Indonesia
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 8, 2004Canada advises citizens to use caution during presidential elections in Indonesia. The first round of the Indonesian presidential elections will take place on Monday, July 5, 2004. Large political rallies can be expected and local transportation services may be disrupted. These rallies may include large parades, particularly in major urban... Read More
U.S. Airports Anticipate Summer Delays
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: June 1, 2004The good news is, air travel is expected to rebound this summer. The bad news is, the increase is likely to be felt in the security checkpoint lines-with long delays. The numbers tell the story. US airlines are expected to transport 65 million passengers a month, or 12% more than... Read More
Cracking Sounds Force Evacuation of Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 25, 2004ROISSY, France (AP) New cracking sounds forced the evacuation Monday of the remains of a futuristic terminal at Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport, where a roof collapse killed four travelers. The scare in the tube-shaped Terminal 2E came as officials worked to reorient flight schedules after tons of concrete, glass... Read More
U.S. Department of State Traveler Warnings
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: May 3, 2004Philippines This Public Announcement is being revised to update travelers about ongoing security concerns in the Philippines, particularly on Mindanao. It supersedes the Public Announcement issued January 16, 2004, and expires on October 29, 2004. The terrorist threat to Americans in the Philippines remains high, and the Embassy continues to... Read More
Strikes in Italy Planned for May 6th
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: April 29, 2004Alitalia's labor unions have announced strikes planned for May 6th from 10:00am to 6:00 pm (local time) and May 17 from 12 noon to 4:00 pm (local time). If these strikes do take place, they will disrupt most routes on Alitalia within and possibly outside of Italy. As of today,... Read More
Important Notice About Witte Travel Email Services!
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: April 27, 2004Dear Valued Customers, Wednesday morning, April 28, Witte Travel will be changing internet providers. During the transition our email service will go down briefly. Once our system connectivity is restored, it could take some time for outside email servers to find our email server again. This is typically cleared up... Read More
F.A.A. Sets Plan To Reduce Summer Delays
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: April 27, 2004Air traffic managers now have authority to hold flights at secondary airports in certain circumstances to clear up congestion at bigger ones in a novel bid to shorten air travel delays, reported Reuters. The option worked out with airlines will give takeoff priority to flights delayed at least 90 minutes... Read More
French Railway Network Board Decisions
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: March 15, 2004Please note the new decision taken by SNCF for safety on board the French railway network following the recent attacks onboard the Spanish commuter trains. The luggage spaces located next to the train doors and phone cabins onboard the SNCF trains have been sealed off. Travelers are requested to keep... Read More
London Underground Strike - March 12
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: March 4, 2004LONDON- Union workers of the London Underground (Tube) intend to hold a 24-hour strike beginning at 6:00am March 12. Should the strike occur as planned, expect massive transportation disruptions. Services on the following Tube lines will likely experience the greatest disruptions: Circle, District, Hammersmith and City, Metropolitan and East London... Read More
Security Situation in Haiti is Critical
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 27, 2004The security situation in Haiti is critical and tensions have increased in Port-au-Prince in advance of opposition rebels, who are reportedly closing in on the city. All travel should be deferred and persons within Haiti should strongly consider departing. A coup d'etat attempt may be imminent. Police remain on the... Read More
Air Traffic Controllers' Strike Continues to Disrupt Flights in France
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 19, 2004Today [February 18], the Air Traffic Controllers' union voted to continue their strike through Friday, February 20 and again during the week of February 23 - 27. This strike continues to impact primarily Orly International Airport. However, as the strike period lengthens, the work action may lead to travel disruption... Read More
U.S. Passport Services Requires Personal Appearance
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 11, 2004Effective February 1, 2004, U.S. Passport Services has begun requiring the personal appearance of all minors applying for U.S. passports for a passport. This is being implemented to enhance the accurate identification of applicants and aid in the prevention of international child abduction and substitution. For more information, please see... Read More
Americans Warned Against Travel To Haiti
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 11, 2004WASHINGTON (Courtesy of CNN) -- With Haiti wracked by civil unrest, the United States urged Americans Tuesday to leave the country "if they can do so safely." "The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer travel to Haiti and urges American citizens to depart the country if they can... Read More
Technology Combined With Expertise Reduces Travel Costs
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 10, 2004TOPAZ International Ltd., an airfare auditing, benchmarking, and statistical information firm specializing in the use of knowledge and technology to reduce travel costs for businesses, just released its latest study on Internet airfares. During the first 6 months of 2003, TOPAZ compared over 15,000 agency-booked itineraries with various Internet travel... Read More
Northwest Offers Self-Service Standby Option for Earlier Flights
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: February 4, 2004Northwest Airlines announced that it now offers customers the ability to stand by for earlier flights the same day through both its nwa.com Check-in and airport kiosk self-service check-in options. "Our research revealed that one of the leading reasons our customers were standing in airport counter lines was because they... Read More
U.S. Airways Relaxes Travel Policy
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 28, 2004Due to the winter storm, delays are expected for the East Coast. US Airways has relaxed its travel policies for passengers whose travel has been affected by the winter storm. For the latest flight details, please check your flight and gate information. Details from US Airways.... Read More
Delta's Winter Storm Alert
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 27, 2004Customers who desire to change their flight as a result of the winter storm on January 25th through the 27th, 2004, confirmed on Delta, Delta Connection®, or Delta-coded flights may make changes without penalty or additional fees if rebooking flights and traveling by January 29, 2004. Details from Delta Airlines.... Read More
United Revises Ticket Policies for Travel Affected by Winter Weather
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 27, 2004United Airlines and United Express today announced revised ticketing policies for travel to and from destinations impacted by severe winter weather in the Midwest and Northeast. Effective immediately, these new policies apply to all customers traveling on January 27, 2004 for cities affected in the Midwest. Additionally, these new policies... Read More
Airlines Ready To Stay On Orange Alert
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 13, 2004Airline industry officials said Thursday they are prepared to maintain security for a heightened alert even if the U.S. terror threat level is lowered. Read the full story on CNN.... Read More
U.S. Lowers National Terror Threat Level
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: January 13, 2004The U.S. government Friday lowered the national terror threat level to "elevated" from "high" risk of attack, Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge said. Read the full story on Yahoo.... Read More
Worldwide Caution Public Announcement
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: December 22, 2003(Courtesy of U.S. Department of State) This supersedes the Worldwide Caution dated November 21, 2003. The text of that Caution is being reiterated below to remind U.S. citizens of the continuing threat that they may be targets of terrorist actions and to alert them to the raising of the Homeland... Read More
Country Risk Levels
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: December 17, 2003Extreme Risk (State Department “Warnings” Issued): Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Bosnia, Burundi, Central African Republic, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Yemen, Zimbabwe. High Risk (State Dept “Announcements” Issued): Bolivia, Djibouti, East Africa,... Read More
Announced Air Traffic Controller Strike in Italy
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: December 9, 2003Witte Travel & Tours has been notified by our suppliers of an announced air traffic controller strike in Italy. The strike is scheduled for Tuesday, December 9 from 12:00 to 16:00 (local time). WorldTravel anticipates travel disruption. We advise travelers holding itineraries involving Italian airports to confirm flights with their... Read More
State Department Renews Global Caution
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: December 2, 2003By Michael Milligan (Courtesy of Travel Weekly) WASHINGTON -- Travel, but watch your back. That might be the message that the State Department would like to impart. The State Department renewed an existing worldwide caution, citing the "continuing threat" of possible terrorist activity and its concern about "the security of... Read More
Travel Disruptions In The United Kingdom
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: November 10, 2003November 13-15 - London Underground Rail Workers Strike: Union workers of the London Underground ("Tube") have announced a 24-hour strike on Nov. 13. Normal service is not likely to resume until the morning of Nov. 15. Should the strike occur as planned, travelers may experience a disruption in ground transportation.... Read More
Wildfires Drive American Airlines Delays and Cancellations
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 29, 2003FORT WORTH, Texas - American Airlines and American Eagle expect delays and some cancellations to and from Southern California today as wildfires hamper airline operations in and around the airports between San Diego and Los Angeles. The FAA's air regional air traffic control center in San Diego was closed Sunday... Read More
United Airlines policy for travelers affected by Southern California fires
Breaking Travel NewsPosted: October 28, 2003The following policy applies to United Airlines Travelers Ticketed by October 26, 2003 for Travel October 26 to November 3, 2003 & Validated on United or Lufthansa: En Route Travel: Returns ma