How a government shutdown would affect travel
A government shutdown looms as Congress remains in gridlock over extending funding past a major deadline.
If a shutdown were to happen, most federal agencies would stop work, and most government workers would be furloughed, save for those who work in agencies deemed as "essential services" such as Social Security and Medicare.
Also considered essential: most of the federal workers involved with air travel.
While travel for Americans probably wouldn't be heavily affected by a government shutdown, the shutdown would still have significant consequences for the travel industry.
The U.S. economy could lose about $140 million a day during a government shutdown, according to the U.S. Travel Association, partly from longer wait times at airports and deferred modernization projects. Additionally, processing times for passports, visas and Global Entry could take longer. This could lead visitors to postpone or cancel travel plans.
Flyers may also deal with more delayed flights and longer screening times...read more
What you need to know about Delta’s recent SkyMiles Program changes
Delta is simplifying its award-winning SkyMiles Program, with Medallion Qualification Dollars serving as the only qualifier for Medallion Status.
As you learn about all the ways to earn those MQDs toward Status —with flights, the MQD Boost benefit on select American Express Cards, car rentals and stays and Delta Vacations experiences — here are several things you should remember about the program and what changes for you. These changes won’t impact your 2024 Medallion Status — just how you earn for 2025. Status for 2024 is earned in 2023. These changes are first applicable in 2024 toward 2025 Status...read more
Sports Illustrated plans to brand resorts in college towns
Travel + Leisure Co. and Sports Hospitality Ventures (a licensee of the Sports Illustrated magazine brand) are teaming up to launch Sports Illustrated Resorts.
The sports-themed resorts will be located within college towns and "near universities with devoted fan bases." Each Sports Illustrated resort will feature a full-service hotel, a vacation club and residential condos.
The brand also plans to branch out into other segments, including beach clubs and interactive "experience parks" in leisure destinations.
The first Sports Illustrated complex is expected to open near the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in 2025. In addition to the hotel, vacation club and residences, that property will have an SI Fit Health/Wellness Center and various dining and entertainment venues...read more
Passport renewal can be a pain. What to know about applications, appointment wait times.
There are many reasons why someone may need a new passport. Whether it's because your last one was damaged or it was expired, you'll want to have a valid passport before you travel. And you'll need one if you have an upcoming international trip.
Applying for a passport can feel a little heavy on the bureaucracy thanks to all the documents and forms you need. And once you've applied, the wait time to get it may be longer than expected.
If you are looking to apply for or renew a passport, here is a guide on how to get one and how quickly you can expect it to come....read more
What can I bring?
Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns....read more