Wait Times for U.S. Passports Haven't Been This Short in Years!
Posted on 10/03/2024, 5:30 PM
In the first half of 2021, the United States State Department had an epic backlog of 2 million passport applications. As the Biden Administration began, the wait time for a new passport—18 weeks, or more than 4 months—was so crazy that the U.S. government had to warn that "U.S. citizens who wish to travel overseas this summer and do not currently have a passport may need to make alternate travel pl...
These Travel Apps Gobble Up the Most of Your Phone's Mobile Data
Posted on 10/03/2024, 7:00 AM
Depending on your smartphone's service plan, the expense of data while you're roaming abroad can be one of the ugliest surprises in a travel budget. Forgetting to use the correct setting for even a few minutes while an e-mail or a video loads in an expensive location can cost a vacationer hundreds of dollars in accidentally accrued, high-priced data charges. Over the years, Frommer's has found thi...
These Are the Best Airports in the U.S. in 2024, According to Passengers
Posted on 09/18/2024, 6:15 PM
Nearly two-thirds of North American flyers (60% to be precise) report having "enjoyed spending time in their airport," according to the latest passenger satisfaction survey from J.D. Power. The baffling contentment of those travelers is evidently impervious to record passenger volume, widespread flight delays, and overpriced food and drink at airport stores and restaurants. For what it's worth, ...
When Is United Airlines Getting Free Wi-Fi?
Posted on 09/17/2024, 4:30 PM
It's pretty shocking that even though the internet has been an essential part of our lives for nearly 30 years, the number of U.S. airlines that supply free Wi-Fi to all passengers still stands at a grand total of one. And even that was a long time coming. JetBlue, which began flying in 2000, announced its intention to add free Wi-Fi for customers back in 2013, but it wasn't until early 2017 that t...
The Best National Parks to Visit for Fall Colors This Year? Surprising New Data Shapes This List
Posted on 09/16/2024, 11:45 AM
For hikers and road trippers eager to see vibrant fall colors, many U.S. national parks have impressive displays this time of year. Makes sense—where there are trees, after all, there are usually leaves. Of course, some trees have more potential for color than others, and some parks have more miles of trails to get you closer to more reds, oranges, and yellows. To help narrow things down, the di...
Act Fast and Your Kid Can Fly to Europe for Just $2
Posted on 09/12/2024, 3:45 PM
An enticing deal for a family trip to Europe is up for grabs this week—but there's no time for dawdling. From now until Tuesday, September 17, the low-cost airline Play is running an eye-catching promotion that allows adults who book select round-trip flights between the United States and Europe to add children's fares for just $2 a pop. Applying to pint-size passengers under age 11, the ultra-...
Should the Eiffel Tower Olympic Rings Stay Up Permanently?
Posted on 09/10/2024, 4:00 PM
The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris had a lot of memorable moments. That cringey Australian breakdancer alone provided enough fodder for several highlight reels. But we've all moved on by now, right? When it comes to memories, after all, it's wise to heed the words of whichever Left Bank philosophe said, "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em." Apparently, Paris Mayor Anne Hidal...
Southwest Airlines Opens 2-for-1 Companion Pass Deal to Everyone for a Hot Minute
Posted on 09/03/2024, 6:30 PM
This'll have to be quick—because Southwest's promotion will be, too.Until Thursday, September 5, Southwest Airlines opening a window to register for its Companion Pass deal, which allows members of its Rapid Rewards program (sign up for free here) to get a second ticket for free when they buy one for themselves. There are a few hoops to making this happen, and the opportunity closes at the end of T...
What Travelers Should Know About Oropouche Virus, an “Emerging” Global Threat
Posted on 08/23/2024, 7:45 PM
Public health officials have revealed yet another reason to pack your bug spray when you travel. An "emerging" threat known as Oropouche virus, spread through the bites of mosquitoes and midges, is on the rise in the Americas and beyond. From the start of 2024 to Aug. 1, more than 8,000 cases of the virus have been reported, primarily in Brazil, where two people have died from the disease. The ...
When Delta's Free Wi-Fi Will Be Available on All International Flights
Posted on 08/15/2024, 7:00 AM
Delta Air Lines has begun rolling out free Wi-Fi on international flights, with most routes to Europe expected to have the service by the end of September, the carrier announced this week. Most of Delta's flights within the United States got free Wi-Fi in 2023. According to the company, more than 90% of the airline's mainline domestic fleet now offers free Wi-Fi from T-Mobile (you do not have to ...
