What's New in the Travel World: Weekly Blog

HERE ARE THIS WEEK'S TOP TRAVEL NEWS AND UPDATES:

VENICE WILL START CHARGING AN ACCESS FEE

Venice will start charging an access fee for day visits between 8.30 a.m. and 4 p.m. for 2024. It will cost 5 euros ($5.45) per person per day. For 2024, the city has exempted the fee for those traveling to most of the lagoon islands, including visitor hubs Murano and Burano, as well as the Lido, home to the city’s beaches. People transiting through Piazzale Roma (the bus terminus), Tronchetto or the Stazione Marittima (where small cruise ships still dock) will be exempt, as long as they don’t cross into the “Old City. (The access fee will be due on 29 days between April 25 and July 14.)

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES SHOWS THEIR NEW CABIN DESIGNS

Southwest Airlines shows their new cabin designs and people are hating it saying the seats look thin and rock hard. The airlines new design highlights the multi-adjustable headrest cushion, an ergonomically enhanced seat bottom, a backrest with lumbar support, and an armrest that “maximizes seat width.” It’s set to debut on the airline’s Boeing 737s in early 2025. 

JAMAICA AND BAHAMAS OFFICIALS ARE PUSHING BACK ON US TRAVEL WARNINGS

Jamaica and Bahamas are pushing back on US claims that the island countries are unsafe for tourist. Officials from both destinations claim their crime rate against visitors remain extremely low.

PLEASE NOTE: The US State Department has issued a level 3 travel warning (which means you should reconsider travel) for Jamaica and level 2 (which means use extreme causation) for Bahamas.

IHG ONE REWARD 40,000 POINTS PROMOTION

IHG One Reward has a great promotion offering 40,000 bonus points for every 4 nights when you book one of their all-inclusive Iberostar Beachfront Resorts. You must be a member to get this offer, but it’s easy to sign up.

JET BLUE'S AIRLINES ANNIVERSARY SALE

Jet Blue’s anniversary sale started this week and includes promotions for up to $650 off vacation packages including cruises. Book by February 12.

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