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LATEST STORIES
Sunday musings: Coronavirus in Sweden, Future of travel, Hotel theft
Most of us are swept up in distancing and staying indoors during the coronavirus days. However, in Sweden, the government and medical system have done the opposite. Though some places are closed, for the most part, Sweden’s cafes and restaurants are open. Enjoy this view of the future of travel. Chris Elliott has a positive take. And finally, we look at theft in hotels.
Running out of money when it comes to paying bills
The coronavirus has infected the global economy and millions of Americans now out of work are trying to figure out what to do while running out of money. Hourly employees who worked at small businesses that are now closed or running on a skeleton crew will take the brunt of the blow when it comes to paying bills.
POLICY
Congress: The sick must fly. Airlines applaud. Are they crazy?
The massive bill just passed by Congress gives billions to the airlines. However, sick passengers cannot change their flights unless they pay exorbitant change and cancellation fees and fare increases. This action by the airline ensures that sick people will fly no matter what and serious illnesses like the coronavirus will continue to spread.
TRAVEL
Is this good? Gas prices are falling dramatically
Gas prices are falling – it is not a silver lining As America has been focused on COVID-19, sheltering in place, and counting the dead in Italy, gas prices are falling. Experts expect that the average price of gas will drop to less than $2 across the country. In a...
Get better air travel before passing an airlines bailout
What consumer groups want is improved customer service from airlines. We want this crisis to change the lack of planning ahead and having insurance for major problems that have resulted in the virus pandemic funding issues.
Passengers want a better post-pandemic world. Airlines want money.
Consumer advocates are the only organizations not begging for money. Lobbyists and industry stakeholders race around DC asking Congress for money, Meanwhile, consumers look for solutions and for ways to use taxpayer dollars intelligently.
10 COVID-19 bailout requirements to protect consumers
Senators call for basic consumer and worker protections as a part of any coronavirus financial assistance. They have outlined a list of ten bailout requirements that should be met before issuing federal aid.
How to take an inward journey in the COVID-19 world
I’m looking out of my window at the strangely quiet streets of downtown Washington, DC. Despite the best of travel plans my apartment is now my destination. I’ve decided to travel in place. With a plan and a bit of determination I’m embarking on an inward journey in the COVID-19 world.
Can a COVID-19 staycation fulfill my travel dreams
Traveling has always been a big part of my life. Last year I went to Cuba in February, Portugal in April, Venice in September, and also took a quick jaunt to Florida in early December. Now, with a COVID-19 staycation being forced on me, I’m staying home.
Get your caffeine boost with a shot of Old World charm
Poznan, Poland, is a lesser-known city and hidden gem for café culture. It has something for everyone. Together with a friend, I recently made my fourth visit, and it just gets better. History-buffs, foodies and culture aficionados can all find an abundance of attractions in Poznan and nearby points of interest.
TRAVEL SAFETY
Learn the EU’s passenger pandemic protection rules
in the USA airline passenger protections are almost nonexistent. On the other hand, European Union (EU) passenger protection laws stay strong. When the European Commission’s new guidelines on the application of the EU261 passenger law was announced, the European airline industry was dismayed while passengers cheered.
TRAVEL TIPS
Running out of money when it comes to paying bills
The coronavirus has infected the global economy and millions of Americans now out of work are trying to figure out what to do while running out of money. Hourly employees who worked at small businesses that are now closed or running on a skeleton crew will take the brunt of the blow when it comes to paying bills.
Are COVID-19 headlines overhyped and sensationalized?
There’s no doubt that the COVID-19 headlines about the coronavirus outbreak is dominating the world’s news day after day. It’s pushed aside other important news. Over the last couple of weeks, many have questioned if the COVID-19 are not sensationalized and overhyped.
Why airlines should seat children with parents
Consumer Reports sent letters today to American, Delta, and United Airlines. They called on the companies to ensure children are seated with their families on planes at no additional cost. More than 120,000 people have signed Consumer Reports’ petition to the airlines in support of this effort since it was launched just over one week ago.
How to self-insure for COVID-19 travel problems
The travel world is awash with questions about how one can protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus (coronavirus). Travelers can purchase travel insurance or they can self-insure. When purchasing insurance, make sure that is will cover you for pandemics or epidemics. If planning on self-insuring, follow these rules.
Important preparation for dealing with an international emergency
In an emergency, planning can be the different between getting home quickly and days or weeks of delays. Tourists, newlyweds, business people and students continue to be stranded across the globe due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are running low on medications, food...
Unanswered questions about the COVID-19 travel world
I don’t know much about the COVID-19 travel world. I am supposedly an expert. However, so much is happening and changing so quickly. Here are questions that have been asked of me and some more that I have asked. These questions do not seem to have consistent answers.
How to use less mobile data when you travel
While traveling we become even more dependent on our smartphones than usual. There are no other phones to use, we all need to get around so map programs are more and more important. Airline boarding passes are often loaded on cell phones. Apps that tell travelers the best hotels and restaurants are needed more than ever. And every time we pick up our mobile phone we need to use international data.
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Accomplishments
These accomplishments have been achieved by working closely with our members, national media, the travel industry, the Department of Transportation (DOT), Congress and many other agencies.
- Bi-partisan bill to eliminate hotel resort fees introduced into House of Representatives
- Creation of the Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protections
- Advertised airfares now include airfare plus, mandatory taxes and fees
- Lost/damaged/delayed luggage compensation limit increased to $3,500
- Passengers have 24 hours to change or cancel their nonrefundable tickets without penalty
- Once an airfare is purchased, that airfare and ancillary fees cannot be increased
- Families flying together act passed by Congress that requires family members 13 years of age and younger to sit with other family members at no additional cost.
