Tag: hotels, Page 7

On the Saturday, March 8th, 2025 edition of The Travel Guys… In the Travel News, Southwest makes massive cuts to earnings in its frequent flyer program (more on that subject later in the program); and a United airlines employee is busted in a huge bribery and payola scheme at the Newark Airport. The Smarter Traveler segment of the program addresses the value of taking the "first flight out in the morning." There are ups and downs of getting up before the chickens, and the guys explain why rising early is probably a smart move. Palm Springs is a popular destination for travelers from our area, and Mark shares a host of opinions on restaurants and attractions, plus tells you one hotel you might want to place on your "do not stay" list. Reward and loyalty programs for hotel chains and airlines are big business. But recently, the changes in the number of points needed for rooms and air tickets has been changing, and not in the favor of the traveler. Now Southwest is cutting the number of points you earn in its Rapid Rewards program on its most popular tickets. We'll update you on the state of rewards programs.

On the Saturday, January 25th, 2025 edition of The Travel Guys… In the Travel News, Marriott is experimenting with letting people pass on housekeeping and save on their hotel rooms - but Mark says it's a trap, to let the hotel chain ultimately charge extra for housekeeping services. Plus, there's the story of the young man who tuned a grand piano on the concourse in Chicago's O'Hare Airport. Truly, it's one of the best travel stories ever (see link to You Tube video here). In our Smarter Traveler segment, Apple Air Tags are the subject. Maybe you already use them, or another brand like Tile Tags. If not, we suggest you should consider them. We talk about some of the many Internet travel scams, and some basic rules to follow to avoid being a victim. The crooks cast a wide net, but following a few basics can keep you out of harms way a lot of the time. Our guest star is Annie Fitzsimmons and her book is 100 Hotels of a Lifetime. It's published by National Geographic and it's really cool. Lots of incredible pictures. Would look good on a travelers coffee table.

On the Saturday, December 28th, 2024 edition of The Travel Guys… In the Travel News, the FAA has the results of the Southwest Airlines safety audit, and wildlife is dying out on Catalina island…without any concern from local residents. The Canadian Transportation Agency, which regulates airlines, has a proposal to make airlines more responsible for delays north of the border. They are actually more expansive than EU Rule 261, which protect passengers in the event of long delays or cancellations. If something like that comes to Canada, is it possible protections for U.S. passengers could be coming? Mileage and Mattress runs have been around as Frequent Flyer Program have existed. What are they and exactly why are they top of mind for many road warriors this time of year? Our Odds and Ends bag includes a story on why some Americans are suddenly choosing less expensive hotel accommodations and what that might mean to the travel industry as a whole.

On the Saturday, November 9th, 2024 edition of The Travel Guys… In the Travel News, lost bags may have a new way of being found; and we discuss how last week's election may impact travelers in the months ahead. Have you ever heard of the airline hack called "check in chicken?" Can it really help you get a better seat on the plane without paying for it? Chris Elliott joins us to opine on a variety of subjects, including children on the loose in the airport, robo-taxis and is it time for AI to plan your next vacation? Travel Gal Sydney is on hand to make you a little smarter next time you book your vacation rental and she asks the question, wouldn't a hotel be better in some situations?