Tag: Airport

No Passport Needed! Experience The Best Of The Florida Keys Only 1 Hour From The Airport
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When you think of the ideal vacation, what comes to mind? Europe, the beach, a ski trip, camping… something else?

Whatever comes to mind, a common theme most of us share when planning a getaway is that we want it to be easy. We stress enough in our normal lives, so why should we stress on vacation?

Well imagine stepping off a plane and into a tropical paradise just an hour later.

No long-haul flights, no customs lines, no jet lag. Just the warm sun, the gentle breeze, and the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys.

This isn’t just a dream; it’s the reality that awaits at Playa Largo Resort in Key Largo.

Playa Largo from above 🤩

Back Again and Again

The first time I took a trip to the Keys was another lifetime ago when I was about 12. We road-tripped all the way to Key West from Louisville, Kentucky.

I remember loving every second, and I’ve been back several times since! The most pleasant things in life are worth endlessly repeating, and The Keys are no exception.

Last year was another road trip, but this year I had the great pleasure of checking out Playa Largo.

And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

This was my favorite shot I took of Playa Largo. It shows two of my favorite parts: the pool and the overwater cabanas. Pics like these make me glad I bought a drone!

While I like to see different sections of The Keys each time I go, I’ll be tempted to simply book a week at Playa Largo next time.

Why, you ask?

I have 5 main reasons…

1) Easy, Breezy, Beautiful… Playa Largo

Sometimes, the best things in life are the hardest to attain. Advanced degrees, chiseled abs, fancy cars… you get my point.

But sometimes, the best things are ridiculously easy, like a Playa Largo getaway!

Not only do you not need a passport to visit this gorgeous property, but you’ll be spoiled for flight options since Miami is so well connected (there are 80+ direct connections in the U.S.).

Once you land, Playa Largo is only about an hour away by car.

Talk about easy to reach!

2) Luxury Redefined, Nature Inspired

Sounds pretty buzzwordy right? Still, I mean it!

Playa Largo felt luxurious in a different way than most resorts, and that’s partly because of how much they went out of their way to preserve the natural environment when building the property.

I stayed in one of the Bungalows, and every time I walked to my room, I felt like I was walking on a gorgeous wooded path in the jungle.

But don’t let the ‘isolation’ fool you. While I felt worlds away in my room, I was only ever steps away from the beach, the pool, the amazing restaurants, and the gym.
I had the world at my fingertips while feeling like I had the whole resort to myself.

The Bungalows have 2 levels, and a full service kitchen. It really feels like you are in your own little home during your stay.

Best of all, when you stay in a Bungalow, you get breakfast brought to your room every day!

Talk about luxury… I didn’t need anything more than a robe to get my breakfast and coffee each morning.

Here were some of the top things I loved about staying in a Bungalow at Playa Largo:

Daily breakfast: Wake up, don your robe, walk to your front door… breakfast awaits!

Full kitchen: While I didn’t take advantage on this trip, I typically like to cook a few meals for myself when traveling, making this room perfect.

HUGE Master Suite: You know how I said the Bungalow was 2 floors? Well, the top one is the Master, the whole floor! Nothing screams luxury like a massive room with an equally massive master bath.

Giant Tub: I literally never take a bath at home, but when in Rome… anytime I stay somewhere with an amazing looking tub I have to try it out, and Playa Largo takes the cake! The tub even had a little tray with everything you need to make for a relaxing time in the tub.

Privacy: The second I reached my “Room” (it’s really more of a house if we’re honest), I felt like I had total privacy. Even drinking coffee on my balcony in the mornings felt private since I was surrounded by trees.

2 of my favorite things. My Travel Pro bag and the bungalows at Playa Largo!

3) Adventure Awaits, Relaxation Beckons

I don’t know what your typical vacation looks like, but I prefer to have a bit of it all. I like adventure, and I like relaxing.

I want to be able to get my heart pumping if the mood strikes and to tune out and turn my brain off too.

This was easy at Playa Largo, and part of the reason I’m keen to head back.

One of my favorite parts of the property, which made for a relaxing time, was the floating cabanas. We had a cabana reserved for the afternoon and took full advantage!

When you book one, you get a cooler with some drinks already picked out, a Bluetooth speaker, and full service as if you are at a restaurant, meaning you can even order your lunch out to the cabana.

I loved being able to have my feet in the water while floating on the ocean and eating lunch in the shade.

Good music, good company, good drinks… all on the water!

Another highlight of my stay was Playa Largo’s Eventide, a celebration of the shift from day to night.

Think live music, special drinks, and fun activities! One of my favorite parts of the ceremony was a table where you could write something you were stressed or worried about on a piece of paper, and then you toss it into a firepit that gets lit and pulled out into the water.

I’d tell you what I wrote, but I don’t want to bring the worries back 😂.

Watching my worries burn away 🔥

Some of my other favorite activities (both adventurous and relaxing) included:

Sound Bathing Meditation: We enjoyed a guided meditation on the beach with singing bowls. It was the perfect way to start the day, and really set the tone for a day of relaxation. For those seeking a wellness getaway, you’re in luck! Playa Largo is hosting ReFLEXions September 13-15 which will have wellness classes, spa experiences, and motivational sessions to achieve the reset so many of us need!

Snorkel Trip: Playa Largo has a catamaran right on site operated by Caribbean Watersports, so it was super easy for us to go out for a snorkel session! I love any excuse to get underwater, and this was one of my favorite activities of the trip.

Massage: What more is there to say? You can never go wrong with a massage! I went with the Ocean Spa Signature Fusion Massage and practically melted into the table. As a daily laptop user, it was amazing to have a week of respite from my constant neck pain after such a great massage.

I couldn’t not snap a pic with these! Very cool experience.

4) Culinary Journeys, No Passport Required

Just saying it again… you don’t need a passport or long flights to enjoy amazing destinations!

And you certainly don’t need one to enjoy the incredible food on offer at Playa Largo.

I could write a whole article about the amazing food here, and I’m getting hungry typing this out…

My favorite dining experience was definitely the Evening Water Table (check it out here).

Something about walking into the water to sit at your dinner table made the whole experience that much more special.

While the sun set behind us, we enjoyed cocktails and appetizers before ordering our mains. If it’s something you like, I highly recommend the Pork Belly Chicharron.

Be sure to dress for the occasion! I accidentally wore pants that were difficult to roll up and ended up getting them a bit wet. WORTH IT!

Plus, the Bungalows had a washer and dryer, so it was a non-issue.

To top it all off, the experience comes with a mini Polaroid camera to capture the moment so you can take it with you when you are done.

One thing that really stuck out about Playa Largo was how attentive they were in making sure you walked away with memories of your stay.

Staff were quick to offer to snap pictures for you, and even quicker to make sure you were always having the best time.

Wine and S’mores are a surprisingly good mix!

A few more of my favorite culinary delights were:

Tropical Mixology Class: The very first night at Playa Largo, we jumped right into a mixology class with the head bartender, and it kicked off a new hobby! I had so much fun that making cocktails has become a weekly adventure. I still make the Hemingway Daquiri a lot (a Playa Largo fave), and have the ingredients on hand at all times!

Summer Nights Chimenea: After our water dining experience, we capped off the night by making s’mores and sipping on delicious wine around a few Chimeneas. It was a great opportunity to chat around the fires while enjoying some delicious treats!

5) Key Largo’s Charms At Your Doorstep

Finally, don’t forget to leave the property (even though you may not want to!). Key Largo and nearby Islamorada have plenty to explore.

Grab a bite at the world-famous Fish House or head to Islamorada to visit the Florida Keys Brewing Company.

We toured the brewery last year and loved spending an evening there. The beer is great and the vibes are off the charts.

Live music, local artists, and psychedelic décor await!

If you have the chance and you are certified, Key Largo also has fantastic diving. It’s easy diving, as pretty much anywhere you go in the Keys is going to be shallow.

The best way to try out a few beers is to order a flight. The darker one was my fave!

Paradise Is In Your Backyard, Your Key Largo Escape Awaits!

Playa Largo was an amazing stay and allows travelers to embrace the charm of the Florida Keys without the hassle of long-distance travel.

Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or the perfect blend of both, Playa Largo has you covered!

I already can’t wait to go back, and love to chat about past adventures! If you want to know more or have any questions feel free to reach out to me directly at tyler@traveloffpath.com.

_{**Travel Off Path was a guest of Playa Largo Resort, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**}

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August 30, 2024
Avoid Airport Chaos! 3 New Sleeper Trains Will Connect These 6 European Destinations
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Train travel is back en vogue in Europe, with numerous train routes launching simultaneously and demand for the railway having increased significantly.

It seems as if travelers have had it with airports in general: from the stressful security check-up, to the long wait in line, and even the super-strict luggage rules low-cost carriers impose, it’s no wonder they’re flocking into the nearest train station instead.

Not only are they a (far more) scenic experience, but trains can literally be hotels on wheels.

Europe’s new fleet of Nightjet trains cover long distances overnight, and with their lie-flat seats and incredible onboard catering, you hardly ever notice the passing of time.

If you’re fed up with the airport chaos yourself, and you’re not on a rush to be anywhere on vacation, you’ll be ecstatic to learn there are 3 new Nightjet sleepers launching in the Old Continent this fall––and they will be connecting 6 completely unique destinations:

New Trains Launching Between Austria, Germany And Italy

In the latest expansion of its Nightjet service, Austrian operator ÖBB will start operation between six cities across Austria, Germany and Italy from September 10, 2024.

The Nightjet is ÖBB’s overnight service, with each train being seven cars long, including two sleeper cars with private cabins, three couchette cars, equipped with 28 compartments, a multi-functional car with both seating and accessible sleeper arrangements, and a seats-only car.

Traveling on the Nightjet, tickets for a standard seat start from only €29.90, or around US$33 based on the current exchange rate. A couchette, or a seat in a shared sleeper cabin costs around $85, while private cabins can go as high as US$192 on some routes.

Editor’s Note: We took a Nightjet train last year and it is an excellent experience (pictured above). Very comfortable and top-notch service!

The list of amenities in the latter category is quite extensive, with guests having enjoying both a seating area and a bed (with softer mattresses and pillows), a private washbasin, adjustable temperature control, multicolored mood lighting, and breakfast the following morning.

For those in ‘comfort plus’, cabins even come with a shower cubicle.

In general, seats are for travelers covering shorter distances, who won’t be traveling the whole extent of the Nightjet, the couchette cars are perfect for families and groups of friends, as it accommodates up to four people, and the private cabins are reserved for solo travelers or couples expecting privacy.

Now that you know what to expect from the Nightjet, let’s move on to the most important part: where can you go this fall?

Munich to Bologna

Munich is a major German city, capital of the state of Bavaria, and a cultural hotspot of the first order, with a central square (Marienplatz) flanked by historical landmarks, and a thriving brewery scene––to our fellow beer buffs out there, it’s also where the traditional Oktoberfest originated.

If you’re visiting Munich this fall, other than signing up for this $68.76 Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour, you can now go on a little weekend escapade to Italy––more specifically, the romantic Bologna, an offbeat gem often bypassed by first-time visitors.

Leaving from Hauptbahnhof (the Central Station) in the evening, the Nightjet crosses the state of Bavaria, and the whole of Austria overnight before reaching Italy, for a total travel duration of 10h28 (don’t worry, you’ll be fast asleep in your comfy couchette bed before you even notice).

Arriving in Bologna, you can go on a gastronomic tour guided by a local, packed with cheese boards, freshly-baked bread and homemade tagliatelle pasta, for only $87.62, or simply admire the city’s stunning architecture:

Bologna is famous for its Renaissance-era monuments, picturesque piazze surrounded by arched colonnades and casual historic cafes, and its twin Asinelli and Garisenda Towers, which similarly to Pisa, have also leaned forward over the years.

Outbound
- Departing from Munich 8:15 p.m.
- Arriving to Bologna 5:39 a.m.
Return
- Departing from Bologna 10:54 p.m.
- Arriving to Munich 9:22 a.m.
Salzburg to Florence
Austria’s famous alpine city, Salzburg has become a popular alternative for travelers keen on escaping the scorching Mediterranean heat this year, thanks to its milder mid-year temperatures and most importantly, inestimable cultural value:

With its perfectly preserved Old Town, dotted with domes and towering church spires, winding cobbled streets, and lush green gardens, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, it is often called Rome of the North.

The Italy associations don’t stop there: from September 10, you can go to sleep in the ÖBB Nightjet in Salzburg and wake up the next morning in Florence, one of Europe’s prettiest cities, and the birthplace of the cultural and intellectual movement that was the Renaissance.

Florence is best-known for its UNESCO-listed Historic Center, dominated by a red-colored Brunelleschi Duomo, that rises above a maze of medieval streets––in the midst of it, there are museums housing iconic Western art, from Michelangelo’s David to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

Besides being a cultural behemoth, Florence is a renowned foodie hotspot, and in case you’re looking for an authentic restaurant, we’d warmly suggest La Buchetta: a bistro with a timeless interior, it has a near-perfect 4.7 rate on Google Reviews (and it’s where we had the best gnocchi ever).

Outbound

Departing from Salzburg 10:02 p.m.

Arriving to Florence 6:42 a.m.

Return

Departing from Florence 9:48 p.m.

Arriving to Salzburg 6:49 a.m.

Vienna to Rome

Habsburg-era palaces, sprawling lush gardens dotted with ornate fountains and postcardy gazebos, and essentially a stately Baroque monument per square mile (not literally, but it surely feels like it): Vienna is the quintessential European city.

The Austrian capital is notorious for its State Opera, considered one of the best in the world, glazed tile-roofed Stephansdom, a Gothic wonder rising 447.5 feet tall, and artsy coffee shops––our favorite, and one tourists often miss when visiting if they’re inattentive, is Fenster.

They’re nothing but a window opening onto a cobbled street where you can only get takeout coffee, and our go-to order has to be the milk espresso served in an ice cream cone; some say it’s overrated because it costs $12, but the presentation is cute, and it is really high-quality stuff.

If you’re coming all the way to Vienna for the culture and the coffee, you might as well add a little side trip to a fellow capital that’s developed a solid reputation entirely on those exact two things–of course, we’re talking about Rome, now linked to Austria via the Nightjet.

More than just great coffee and ancient sites, however, Rome is a vibrant metropolis with a jovial atmosphere and diverse tourist offer.

Unlike New York, it does go to sleep eventually, but if you know where to go, you can still have an enjoyable time.

Be it the endless streets of Trastevere, with its local-owned osteria and hidden courtyards, or the lively San Lorenzo, a student quarter full of bars, your Sunday evenings in Rome don’t have to be spent in a museum, or admiring Roman ruins if, you know, you’re in need of a Bohemian weekend away.

Outbound

Departing from Vienna 7:18 p.m.

Arriving to Rome 11:05 a.m.

Return

Departing from Rome 5:40 p.m.

Arriving to Vienna 9:04 a.m.

Why Take A Sleeper Train Instead Of Just Flying?

If you’ve never taken a sleeper train before, you may be wondering how exactly it’s any better than flying, and why would people choose to deliberately be in a train for 8 hours or longer when they could simply take the quickest, ‘easiest’ route.

Environmental wiffle-waffle aside, have you ever stopped to think how long you actually spend traveling by plane?

Sure, flights are mostly short-distance, particularly in Europe where it normally takes a maximum 3 hours to get anywhere, but how about the airport commute and wait?

If you’re flying from Paris Beauvais, an airport a whopping 41 miles outside the city of Paris itself, you’re advised to leave for the airport between five and three hours in advance, as the transfer time can take as long as 1h30, and there’s usually big lines at security.

However short that flight is, and let’s say it’s roughly 2 hours, your overall travel time has already bumped up to at least 7 hours, airport commute, wait time and actual flight included––and we haven’t even factored commuting upon arrival.

Most major international airports in Europe are located miles out of the city center, or even the city they serve, which is the case with Beauvais, and for that reason, flying typically takes up the best part of a travel day, if not the entire day.

Sleeper trains take between 8 to 10 hours to complete their journey, which is either equivalent or slightly longer, the difference being that you’re traveling overnight, going to bed at your departure point, and magically waking up at your destination.

No stress, no hopping on and off airport shuttles and trams in between, no sitting up straight.

Are Trains Really That Much More Expensive?

Lie-flat cabins are pretty expensive, sure, but have you pondered it’s almost as if you’re combining the cost of accommodation and travel into a single booking?

Think about it: if you choose to stay another night in a three-star hotel in Rome, basic amenities, only to fly to Vienna in the morning, you’ll be set back by $93–$146 this season, plus the flight tickets: booked through Austrian Airlines, that’s as high as $128 on certain dates.

We haven’t even added the cost of airport transfers, hold luggage (which is free on trains), whether it’s Ubers or trains, nor the usual airport expenses––who can resist a cheeky KFC as they wait for their gate to open, or browsing through DutyFree?

It’s not that airports are bad (not at all), but is $192 for a private sleeper cabin, or even $85 for a couchette in a shared compartment really that expensive?

Not to mention the scenic views, ability to take a walk and stretch your legs without being told off by overly-strict flight attendants, and comfy seating.

Lastly, trains don’t arrive miles outside a city.

Instead, they take you straight to the city center, probably in proximity of your hotel, making getting around much easier. Sleeper trains are perfect if you’re not in a rush to be somewhere, but if you’re actually smart about it, they’re rarely ever not the best choice.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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July 24, 2024
This New International Airport In Mexico Will Open Up Travel To These 3 Destinations

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Mexican tourism has exploded in popularity. The country is the number 1 destination for U.S. travelers and is smashing visitor number records over and over.

To manage these huge visitor numbers, the Mexican government is investing heavily in its travel infrastructure.

A new airport has opened in Tulum, and the Maya Train is making exploring the Yucatan Peninsula easier than ever.

And now another new international airport is set to open in the country.

Here’s what you need to know:

Explore The Beautiful State Of Nayarit

Exploring the beautiful Mexican State of Nayarit is set to be easier than ever. That’s because a new international airport will open here.

Tepic Airport is located in the north-central part of the state. This airport is forecasted to welcome at least 4 million passengers a year, and the project will include a new terminal building, jet bridges, a new air traffic control tower, and more than 33,000 square feet of shops and restaurants.

While the airport itself has already existed for many years, its massive expansion will make a new international airport within Mexico.

It is in a prime position for adventurous tourists. You’ll find it 3 hours west of Guadalajara and 3 hours north of Puerto Vallarta.

Most visitors to the Riviera Nayarit currently fly into the airport in Puerto Vallarta, which is why the southern portion of the state tends to welcome significantly more visitors than the north.

This airport will open up travel to 3 Mexican destinations well worth exploring: San Blas, Costa Canuva, and Rincon de Guayabitos.

Along with the revamped airport, a new highway will also be built in the region.

This is expected to be completed this year and will shorten the drive time between Tepic and the Riviera Nayarit considerably. This journey currently takes 3 hours, but once the new highway is completed, it will take just 1 hour and 15 minutes.

San Blas

San Blas is a beautiful and pristine destination popular with eco-tourists and animal lovers. These travelers are attracted here because the landscapes and surroundings are so picturesque.

The resort area boasts a 4-mile expanse of fine sand beach, and the area has a rich and fascinating history.

The town was founded in 1530, and you can tour the Contaduria stronghold as well as the Nuestra Senora de Rosario Temple, which are both fine examples of the architecture of the city.

A highlight of any visit here is a guided boat tour through the La Tovara Nature Reserve. San Blas is also popular with sailing enthusiasts and water sports fans, particularly surfers, as there are few hurricanes on this coastline.

Costa Canuva

Costa Canuva is a relatively understated resort area, and it is often referred to as the best-kept secret of the Riviera Nayarit.

It is 59km from the Puerto Vallarta airport and 3.5 hours from the Guadalajara airport, but the new Tepic airport will open it up further.

The beaches are breathtakingly beautiful, and the resort area features miles of hiking and biking trails.

There are 5 luxury hotels in Costa Canuva as well as more than 2,500 residential properties and a PGA-standard golf course so luxury lovers will be spoilt for choice here.

This is a great spot if you’re looking for a break that is both relaxing and culturally enriching. Costa Canuva is considered one of Riviera Nayarit’s best spots in the winter months.

Rincon De Guayabitos

Rincon de Guayabitos is a small touristy town packed full of amenities. The people here are friendly and welcoming and the town is incredibly safe which makes it an appealing spot for U.S. tourists.

Here, you’ll find huge expanses of white sand beaches, a beautiful shaded hot spring, and every Monday morning during the winter months, there is a small and fun market in the main town square. The town is known for its gentle waves, reasonable prices, and convenient location.

Rincon de Guayabitos boasts everything the discerning tourist could need.

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February 24, 2024
Why You Should Book Your Last Night Of Vacation Near The Airport

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No matter how many times you’ve been to the airport, the worry that you aren’t leaving early enough never seems to fade. It’s a shame to end a relaxing vacation by stressing about making it home. What if there is traffic? What if your transportation doesn’t show up? What if the airport is way busier than usual?

All of the unknowns add up, and we naturally worry. However, there is a way to lessen the stress. A new trend among stress-conscious travelers is emerging, and it might just be the best way to end a vacation. By booking the last night of your vacation at a hotel near (or in) the airport, you greatly diminish the stress that comes along with making the trek back home.

Here are 5 reasons why you should book your last night of vacation near the airport:

You’ll Avoid Traffic Problems

If you’ve been plugged into the news lately, you probably know that traffic around Cancun’s airport has been crazy lately. Travelers headed to the airport last week got so desperate they began to ditch their taxis to finish the route on foot in an attempt to make it to their flights on time. While this is an extreme example, traffic can be a serious cause for concern when trying to make it to the airport on time. By booking your last night near the airport, you’ll cut down on the chance that traffic will make you miss your flight home.

You’ll Already Be Packed

We’ve all been there. Frantically jamming everything we can into our bags while the clock mocks us from across the room as we try to get out the door to the airport on time. Somehow it always seems more difficult to pack everything up when vacation is ending than it did before it started. If you opt to spend your last night of vacation in a hotel near the airport, you’ll be able to pack stress-free.

You’ll be far less likely to accidentally leave anything behind, and you’ll be able to enjoy the process more while you think about how great of a vacation you just had. As a bonus, you’ll already be packed and ready to roll the next day before your flight, as you only need to set aside the essentials for the next day’s travels.

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Transportation Is Often Included

Many hotels around the airport will include free airport shuttles as part of their nightly rate. Not only does this save you money, but it also takes the stress out of figuring out how you will get to the airport. Now you don’t have to shell out way too much money for a taxi, and you don’t have to coordinate anything. Just make sure to ask the concierge what schedule the shuttle follows, as it can vary from property to property. Most hotels will have a shuttle run at least twice per hour, starting well before the first flights of the day.

You’ll Save Money On Accommodation

Spending the last night of vacation in a hotel closer to the airport will likely save you money on accommodation, depending on your vacation type. If you just spent a week at a beachfront resort, the airport near the hotel will undoubtedly be cheaper. To maximize your time at the nice resort, ask if the front desk can hold on to your luggage after checkout and see if they will allow you to enjoy the grounds until later in the afternoon before heading off to your airport hotel. Many properties are more than happy to provide this service, and you still enjoy the property without paying for another night.

Transportation Is More Dependable

Staying near the airport guarantees you’ll be able to find a way there more efficiently and affordably. In bigger cities, this can equate to quite a bit of saving.

Author’s Anectode

I traveled to London in November and stayed in Canary Wharf. To get home, I planned to take the first flight out of Heathrow in the morning to avoid delays. Unfortunately, I hadn’t done enough homework, because in order to be at the airport 2 hours before my flight, my only option was a taxi. The first tube stop of the day I could take to begin the journey to the airport was far too late in the morning to be sure I would make my flight.

If I had been able to take the tube, the trip would have cost about $15, and instead, I had to pay for a taxi that cost me over $100. Had I booked a hotel closer to the airport, I’d have saved myself some money and been able to sleep in a bit more.

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December 31, 2022
Cancun Traffic Gets So Chaotic Travelers Forced To Walk To Airport

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Massive traffic jams due to road work on the way to Cancun International Airport have forced travelers to get out of their vehicles, drag their bags, and run to make it on time to their flights since Wednesday, the 21st.

Local authorities made the decision to remodel the roads on Luis Donaldo Colosio and Kukulkan Boulevards, in the hotel zone of Cancun, in order to keep the popular destination’s infrastructure up to date with its growing popularity.

However, the Cancun Airport recently crushed a record of 719 flights, and hotels were all but sold out, meaning there were thousands of travelers all trying to get to the airport in the midst of this massive construction project.

Because of the road construction, the route to the airport had heavy traffic congestion that affected around 10,000 passengers. According to the information shared by the Mexican news site El Financiero, many travelers didn’t make it in time and lost their flights, and nearly 40 flights had delays.

@momdiaz5 #cancunairport #cancuntrafic ♬ original sound – Transport adventure gateway

Through social media, users shared shocking videos of tourists—including families with babies and strollers— pushing their bags and moving faster than all the vehicles stuck in long lines of up to three hours long while heading to the airport.

“It took us 4 hours to go three miles,” wrote a user who shared a video of the experience on Tiktok. Another user commented: “It was horrible. I was dressed to land in Houston in 35-degree weather. I walked 3 miles with my 50 lb suitcase, carry-on, and giant purse.”

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@texiejune it took us 4 hours to go 3 miles 🙃🙃 #cancunmexico #cancun #cancunairport ♬ Funny Song – Cavendish Music

Fortunately, the Benito Juárez major, Ana Patricia Peralta de la Peña, announced late on Thursday night that new updates and measures have been taken to solve the traffic chaos.

Mexican Government Taking Measures

As reported by The Cancun Sun, the Mexican government has already deployed 62 police officers in the area to control traffic and prevent bottlenecks.

@budur77

Cancun Chaos Traffic Airport 🤮🤮🤮. 5 km walking by hot temperature

♬ Originalton – Elena

“Thanks to the cooperation between federal, state, and municipal authorities, we have managed to normalize fluid vehicular traffic on Blvd Colosio, which allowed the arrival and departure of tourists from the Cancun International Airport without setbacks,” said major Peralta on Twitter.

The road work that caused the chaotic traffic experience this week was part of a new project to optimize traffic flow and expand roads, but the result was catastrophic for tourists, especially during peak hours. The new measures will allow the construction to continue but also includes new road alternatives from Cancun to the international airport to create a better traffic flow.

@kasiamusic_ ♬ original sound – Kasia

Even though it is not the first time that Cancun’s traffic congestion has made it to the news, hopefully, this new strategy will solve the problem, and travelers can go back to a normal travel experience in the Mexican Caribbean.

When Travelers Should Leave Their Hotel

Travelers visiting Cancun right now or in the following days should be extra cautious. Cancun International airport is more crowded than ever, the traffic jam has been a nightmare, and now many flights connecting to the United States and Canada have been canceled due to bad weather in the north.

Hotels and resort transport operators are reporting that travelers need to leave 5 hours before their flights in order to make sure they make it to the airport in time. Travelers are advised to leave as early as possible to make sure the traffic situation doesn’t hinder their chances of making it home.

@ilykaitlyn111

y’all needa chill out & stay home for christmas & new years damn😭

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Even though the entry process at Cancun airport has been simplified and significantly optimized this year, these unexpected events have added stress and angst for travelers who don’t want to miss their flights. Airlines have also tried to provide solutions and alternatives for passengers.

Now that the new measures have been implemented, during the following days, the travel experience should improve. However, it’s wise to take precautions like heading very early to the airport, even if it means saying goodbye to the pristine Caribbean waters sooner than expected. Other travelers have also recommended taking morning flights to avoid peak traffic hours.

@kevinfrenchfit POv you just landed in Cancun and are stuck for hours to clear customs and immagration #cancun #travel #airport #immgration #busyairport #waittime ♬ оригинальный звук – zotov

Those visiting Cancun must bear in mind that this is one of the trendiest destinations this winter, and crowds are expected. Many travelers —especially from the United States and Canada— have been flocking to the Mexican Caribbean to escape the cold weather and snow storms, and more airlines are offering direct routes to this beautiful destination to satisfy that demand.

As a result, the Mexican government is improving infrastructure, routes to the airport, and transportation systems to maintain the rising tide of Cancun’s popularity. Until such work is completed, travelers should be aware that leaving several hours in advance is a necessary precaution.

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December 24, 2022
The Most Relaxing Puerto Vallarta Vacation Is Only A 5 Minute Drive From The Airport

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As many of us know, getting the chance to truly unwind while on vacation can sometimes prove more difficult than expected. Just because you’ve arrived in a beautiful area with sun and sand doesn’t mean your brain suddenly turns off the constant hum of everyday life. However, I just completely unplugged for the first time in a long time after spending a few days at the most relaxing resort in Puerto Vallarta, The Westin, which is only a quick five-minute drive from the airport.

Trying To Unwind Can Actually Be Stressful

Have you ever tried to relax? The statement itself is a bit of an oxymoron. Try to relax? Attempting to relax and being unsuccessful can be its own source of stress. Relaxing should be effortless, and at The Westin, it was.

To really understand how rare this experience was for me, I’ve got to let you in on a secret…

I love my job.

No, seriously. I have never been as passionate about anything else in my entire life, and I am so grateful to be able to say that! However, it can be hard to unwind or unplug when you are so invested and interested in something. I don’t really see this as a downside because it’s what I am most passionate about.

Still, regardless of how I feel about it, it’s wise to unplug every now and then for mental health and relaxation. Lucky for me, The Westin didn’t give me a choice! Even if I tried to work (which I did), I was able to relax more than I had in months.

The Westin Puerto Vallarta sits on the grounds of an old palm tree farm, and great care is taken to preserve them. Each tree is numbered and looked after carefully.

Worry-Free From The Start

I was lucky enough to have the row to myself on the flight in, and things only got easier from there. Getting through customs in Puerto Vallarta is a breeze, and transport from the airport was arranged through The Westin.

When I walked outside, my driver was already waiting for me with a sign that had my name on it. A quick 5-minute drive later, and I was greeted by The Westin’s beautiful lobby and signature White Tea scent. My senses were pleasantly overwhelmed, and I felt like I’d entered another world.

**Author’s Airport Tip**

One quick tip for navigating Puerto Vallarta’s airport — make sure you don’t fall for any of the timeshare people’s tactics in the “shark tank.” People inside the airport will try to convince you that they are your transport, don’t fall for it. Walk all the way outside of the airport, where the actual transport operators will be waiting.

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The Westin Puerto Vallarta Hotel Lobby

The scale of the building, the perfect weather, and the wonderful immediate service made everything feel surreal. My bags were quickly whisked away to be taken to my room, check-in took all of two minutes, and I was in my room shortly after. I’d only landed just over thirty minutes prior and was already enjoying a cup of afternoon tea while taking in the incredible view from my balcony.

View from the balcony of the 7th floor of The Westin Puerto Vallarta

A Dinner That Will Ground You, Literally

As a solo traveler and borderline introvert, getting to know new people can sometimes be challenging. After a long day of flying, my energy levels can make it difficult to put the effort forth to get to know people I’ve never met or even catch up with those that I already know. That all changed during the first evening’s dinner at The Westin.

Our group (who had only met virtually up to this point) met in the lobby before walking through the gorgeous property to our dinner location. The Westin sits on what used to be a palm tree farm, and great effort was taken to preserve the trees. Even the pools were built around existing trees. The whole resort feels cozy — as if you’re closed off from the entire world, so the walk already made the evening feel special.

The Westin was built on the grounds of a former palm tree farm. Great efforts are taken to preserve the trees, which are each distinctly numbered.

When we reached our dinner spot, the ambiance really kicked in. We had booked a ‘sunset picnic’ right on the lawn overlooking the beach, and I instantly knew it was going to be a great night. Getting down closer to the ground gave the entire experience a much more intimate feel.

Smiles were plenty, and conversation was easy. This was definitely the best way to get to know people, and would be perfect for families and friends to enjoy together and catch up. The string lights over the table lit up as the sun went down, and fireworks started a short way down the beach, adding a whole other element to the evening as we enjoyed our desserts. As the night came to a close, I knew I’d made some good friends that I would keep beyond the trip.

After wrapping up dinner, I went back to my room to end the night in the most comfortable hotel bed I’ve ever been in. (I later found out that The Westin has their own signature Heavenly® Beds, no wonder I slept so well!) When I go back to The Westin (and I will be going back), I will absolutely be booking a sunset picnic again.

Sunset Picnic at The Westin Puerto Vallarta

Sometimes The Best Way To Relax Is With Intentional Stress

I am the kind of person who finds it challenging to sit still. Lounging on a beach all day is hard for me, and I find it much more enjoyable to go hiking, snorkeling, or, in this trip’s case, ziplining. As a person with a healthy fear of heights, I can confidently say that my stress levels were raised!

After about a 20-minute scenic ride, we arrived at Canopy River, where we ziplined across the mountains 11 times before taking a donkey ride back to the top. If you find yourself here, make sure to check out Jorullo Bridge after your ziplining tour. It’s the longest suspension bridge in the world, and offers some great views!

The tallest zipline was 500ft in the air and 1500ft long! Certainly enough to kick up my cortisol levels, but it was a blast! After the initial fear wore off, the views offered while suspended between two mountains were almost therapeutic. The rest of my day felt so calm after starting it off with such a rush. In fact, I spent several hours lounging next to the pool, reading a book. Something I usually wouldn’t be able to do for very long.

The Most Relaxing Day Of 2022

It’s been a busy year for me, and life has changed drastically since the start of 2022. I set many goals for myself, and I’ve basically worked nonstop to meet them. In the midst of that, it’s been difficult to allow myself to relax. However, during my third day at The Westin, I reached a level of tranquility I hadn’t achieved in ages.

This will likely come as a surprise to no one, but my most relaxing day of 2022 began with a trip to The Westin Spa. I am not exaggerating in the slightest when I say it was the best massage of my life. Before beginning, I was asked if I had any areas that needed special attention, and I definitely did. My neck has been stiff for months, and I’ve been too busy with life to really do anything about it. My therapist nodded and said they would take care of it, and they did! For the first time in months, I could bend my neck completely without any pain.

After the massage, I spent another hour taking advantage of the steam room, sauna, and sleep room, where I was able to fall asleep for about 30 minutes. When I finally decided to leave (and it took some convincing!), I felt like I was floating. Not many things can get me to completely unwind, but The Westin Spa (thankfully) gave me no choice.

Tips For A Relaxing Time In Downtown Puerto Vallarta

While I can’t recommend The Westin enough, it’s worth getting off the property to explore some of the surrounding areas. Staying at The Westin makes this very easy. To check out the immediate area, I’d recommend renting a Move Well bike from the front desk. The roads and sidewalks around the resort are all very bike friendly, and it’s the perfect way to wake yourself back up after a life-changing massage.

For a more unique experience, I highly recommend checking out downtown Puerto Vallarta, particularly the Malecón, a 12-block boardwalk along the ocean. One of the coolest parts about downtown is that every street is historic, as they have all retained their original cobblestone structure.

After the sun goes down, I suggest taking an after-dark taco tour with Vallarta Food Tours. My new favorite way to take in a new place is via food tours, and this was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Just like the food tour I recently took in Old San Juan, it was a history lesson in disguise, and I felt like I knew the city on a much deeper level afterward. Plus, as a solo traveler, food tours are a fantastic way to see more of the city with a group to meet new people and make friends!

@tyleroffpath A few highlights from the most relaxing trip I’ve ever take at The Westin in Puerto Vallarta . #relax #puertovallarta #mexico #Marriott #travel #travelwriter #traveloffpath ♬ How Wonderful – Muspace

Going with a group, and especially with a guide, is one of the most relaxing ways to take in a new place. You are with someone who knows the area really well, and you don’t have to worry about checking your phone every few seconds to make sure you are going in the right direction. Plus, walking around at night alone can be uncomfortable. Taking a food tour with a group is a great way to see the city at night when it is most alive without going it alone.

@tyleroffpath After-dark taco tour in Puerto Vallarta, one of the best ways to see downtown! . #taco #puertovallarta #travel #travelwriter #mexico #traveloffpath ♬ Latin America ♪ Mexico ♪ Fashionable guitar(1184628) – Chiemikan

I’ll Be Back

This was one of the best trips — and certainly the most relaxing — that I have ever taken. Since the airport was only 5 minutes away and the hotel could arrange transport, I had zero worry about making it to the airport on time. I still feel refreshed, and I’ve been home for a week! I went to Puerto Vallarta not knowing what to expect, and, as usual, life surprised me. I left with a refreshed mind and body, wonderful new friends, and an appreciation for fully unplugging every once in a while.

One thing is certain. I can’t wait to go back.

_{**Travel Off Path was a guest of The Westin who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**}

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December 23, 2022
4 Reasons Why Cancun Airport Is The Smoothest Entry Point Into Mexico
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If you’re still wondering where in Mexico you should be traveling to next, and you’re concerned about excessive airport delays and long wait lines, you might want to consider good old Cancun as your destination. On this article, we will tell you four reasons why the city is the smoothest entry point into Mexico, and why its unwavering popularity remains at an all-time high in spite of the current travel chaos.

You know how the saying goes… You can’t go wrong with a classic.

Cancun Has Made It A Top Priority To Improve Airport Experience

Mexico as a whole is hugely popular among Americans, with places like Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos in particular taking center stage as the next trendy sunny breaks, but Cancun is still America’s favorite by a large margin. You may be wondering why that is so, seeing that it’s already been a hot topic for years, but judging by the measures they’ve adopted to improve the tourist experience and ensure Americans feel welcomed when arriving, it’s really no surprise:

More Immigration Staff Being Brought In To Reduce Waiting

One of the most stressful, and anxiety-inducing procedures for travelers, especially those going abroad for the first time, is braving immigration. Besides the usual bureaucracy involved with carrying all the relevant documentation, such as a valid passport and hotel bookings, waiting in line to be stamped into Mexico by a border officer can easily take longer than an hour during the peak season.

Lately, the risk of missing travel connections, or hotel transfers upon arrival due to airport bottlenecks has greatly increased, mainly because the industry has not been able to cope with a surging travel demand amid its own worker shortage. In stark contrast with Mexico City, where air traffic congestion is yet to be tackled, Cancun Airport is a much safer bet.

Authorities are bringing in more immigration staff to deal with the surging demand, with 130 new hires having been confirmed, bringing the number of available border agents to 329. This will ensure Americans are screened much quicker, whether their final destination is Cancun or they’re on a connecting flight elsewhere within Mexico.

Digital Kioks For Automated Passport Control

Serving the most popular vacation hotspot in the country, Cancun Airport can get absolutely packed in the high season, which at times can make it an extremely unpleasant hub to transit. Nevertheless, the local Government never got comfortable in their ceaseless struggle to improve security wait times, and now lines will move much faster with the introduction of new digital kiosks.

While they have not been operating staff-free yet due to pending changes in Mexico’s border regulations, these kiosks will allow Americans to automatically check in and out of Cancun simply by scanning their passports, as easily as entering their own home country. In total, 40 automated kiosks are already available in Cancun, double the number of those installed in Los Cabos.

Pretty soon, thorough immigration checks will be a thing of the past in Cancun.

Transit Times Are Much Better Now

A couple of weeks ago, we informed you transit times between Cancun Airport and the Hotel Zone had increased drastically due to construction carried out on the main highway connecting both. At the time, even airport authorities urged visitors to depart as early as 5 hours not to miss their flights as traffic jams were expected. Now, some serious progress has been made in their bid to ease traffic.

According to the municipal government, this is how long it takes to transit all roads leading to the city, from the airport:
- Boulevard Colosio – 34 minutes
- Huyacan Avenue – 38 minutes
- Kukulcan Boulevard – 62 minutes
These average times correspond to peak hours when traffic is at busiest, meaning the drive can be much shorter. Notably, the best option for Cancun arrivals in getting to their resort faster remains Boulevard Colosio, at just 34 minutes. In comparison, those attempting to reach the Hotel Zone via Kukulcan Boulevard face an hour-long drive.

Immigration Form Removed

Lastly, Cancun has scrapped its customs form passengers were made to fill out upon landing, where they were expected to provide their passport number, birth date, hotel address, specify the purpose of travel, and other information. Albeit easy to complete, this document was hindering the smooth influx of visitors into Mexico, as prior to the decision, they were required to first complete the questionnaire ahead of proceeding to border control.

Starting this week, tourists are no longer required to present the FMM form, nor retain part of it for screening purposes once again when leaving Cancun, making the city the first major destination in Mexico to remove what many saw as a bureaucratic step. Following the move, we expect border movements to be much quicker in Cancun compared to the rest of the country.

Cancun Is The Best Place To Fly To Mexico From Abroad

Taking into account the four measures listed above, we can safely infer that Cancun is, without a question, the best place to fly into Mexico currently:
- Wait lines have been significantly reduced
- Major infrastructure projects are ensuring visitors get in and out of Cancun Airport in the shortest time possible
- Airport authorities are keen on dropping bureaucracy and streamlining border crossings
- More staff is being deployed to avoid the infamous immigration bottlenecks and improve the tourist experience
Additionally, Cancun has remained at Level 2 Travel Advisory in the latest U.S. Department of State revision of travel risks in Mexico. In other words, the pearl of the Caribbean is one of the safest destinations south of the border.

Read More:

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Puerto Vallarta Eliminates Immigration Form To Speed Up Arrivals

St. Kitts And Nevis Remove Travel Restrictions While Bermuda Makes It Easier For Unvaccinated Tourists

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 28, 2022
Why Airport Lounges Are Worth It– Especially This Year

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If You’re Unsure About The Value Of Airport Lounges, Read On

Airports are a nightmare at the best of times, but this year’s chaos is unprecedented. If you’ve fought your way through the security line, ventured the length and breadth of the departures lounges, and tried to work next to a screaming baby, you may have glanced longingly at one of the airport lounges dotted around the airport.

Once seen as a symbol of luxury and inaccessible to the masses, lounges are springing up everywhere. Some airports have well over ten lounges, with many accessible to anyone willing to pay.

But are they worth the hype? We say, without a doubt, yes. At least in most cases. Here’s why you should consider getting lounge access on your next trip, especially this year.

1.      They’re a much-needed dose of peace

The biggest benefit of any lounge, even a busy one, is the peace they offer. Departure lounges are chaotic. The worst of every human comes out in an airport, and fusing that with a long travel day, hunger, money, and impatience is never a good environment to be in before your flight.

Even if a lounge is a little busier, most make the effort to offer comfortable seating, further away from other passengers than the uncomfortable pews clustered around the departure gates. The people in the lounge are there for the same reason, peace, so there’s almost no chance of someone blaring their music, shouting down their phone, and even the parents with the crying kid are far more apathetic to the setting.

Relaxing before a flight is a luxury you should experience at least once.

2.      There’s free food

Do we have to say much more? Many of the lounges are buffet style, so you can dig in as much as you’d like. Think about it, the more you eat, the further that entry fee goes.

But don’t be the person who drinks too much free booze. They don’t get let back in.

3.      It might actually save you money

Depending on your travel day habits, paying for a lounge might actually end up cheaper than spending a few hours in the terminal.

If you’re on a long connection, you might be tempted to grab lunch, maybe a snack and a drink later, and of course, the obligatory airport alcoholic beverage, which can quickly rack up a bill. Airport food was inflated long before everything else was. Many lounges offer free food and even alcohol, which could end up a steal for you. If you have to pay $25 for a lounge stay, you’ve seriously upgraded for at least the same cost.

4.      Working is far easier

If you’re traveling for work, a lounge should be a no-brainer. Even if you’ve prepared yourself with a fully charged laptop, departure lounge wifi can be brutal, your concentration levels have to be amazing, and you’re going to be working from your lap.

Lounges usually have work space, so you can get the feeling of a desk setup and almost always offer free wifi that functions separately from the outside connection. Taking a business call is possible in some, and even if you’re still stuck with your knees for a desk, at least you’re probably sitting on a nice comfy sofa.

5.      If you’re a regular traveler you’re missing out

If you travel more than four or five times a year, you’re probably losing money. If it’s international travel, you’re definitely losing money. A combination of food and snack costs over the course of a year comfortably adds up to the cost of a subscription to a lounge app.

Priority Pass, one of the most comprehensive apps, has memberships starting at $99 and gives the user access to a multitude of lounges usually unavailable to most or at a higher price point. If you’re hopping on a flight every week, the full membership is still worth it in experience alone.

Airlines with membership programs also offer some amazing options, so if you’re loyal to a certain carrier, check out what they have available.

6.      It could literally be free

Many credit cards, especially airline cards, include access to their lounges when flying with the same carrier. If you’re not taking advantage of this brilliant opportunity, you’re missing out. If you don’t have a card that grants you access to lounges, take a look at a few that offer the benefit. These will typically have fees, but if you’re already paying for another card with similar costs, it might be worth the switch.

Capital One, Chase, and Amex all have their own lounges dotted around the world for their top customers. The Amex Platinum Card, for example, offers free access for every cardholder at their Centurion lounges, which are often some of the best. It also grants free access to Priority Pass, so if there’s no Centurion, you’re still covered.

When is it not useful?

It’s all fine and well pushing you to pay for a lounge, but it’s just as important to know when it’s not worth it.

If you just really need some peace, go for it. But if you’re on a short domestic flight, you’re not flying often, and you’re unlikely to be eating very much during your time in the airport, just suck it up and give it a miss.

It’s great to have a comfortable place to hang out, but is it really worth $25 before your two hour flight home? Just hang on and get into bed.

Read More:

Top 5 U.S. Airports With The Cheapest Airfares

Flight Delayed? Here Are 10 Ways To Pass The Time

What To Do If Your Flight Is Delayed Or Canceled

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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August 24, 2022
Amsterdam No Longer Wants Travelers To Connect Through Its Major Airport

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How The Netherlands Shift Might Affect Your Travel Around Europe

The Netherlands is set to transform its air travel sector in the wake of the announcement that Schiphol Airport will be operating under a cap from 2023. The decision is multi-faceted, attempting to tackle both climate change and a shift from the airport’s reputation as a transfer hub.

Schiphol Airport, the Netherlands’ busiest airport and one of the busiest in the world, announced last month that it would begin capping the number of flights flying to and from the hub. The figure released suggested that no more than 440 thousand flights a year would be allowed to leave from Schiphol.

The move is mainly geared at climate change, and the figure corresponds to an approximate twenty percent decrease in the airport’s pre-pandemic figures and is a first for any major airport in the world. The decision was met with celebration from environmental activists but frustration by several airlines and other airports who will now feel pressure to react in a similar manner.

In a direct manner, passengers may be affected by sudden rising costs as the supply decreases, but the decision is also part of a broader change in direction from the Dutch Government.

Schiphol is known for its calculated role as a connection hub airport. Millions of passengers move through the airport every year, attracted by comparatively low costs and high connectivity. Recent figures place it as one of the most connected airports in the world.

Many travelers purposely reroute their travel through Schiphol instead of taking direct flights from their home airports or routing through other major airports that are often more expensive. The UK, in particular, uses the Dutch hub as a cheap alternative to Heathrow, owing to its close proximity to the country. A tourist traveling from a city like Newcastle in the north of England would see far more value in a cheap flight across the channel than dealing with Heathrow.

KLM, the largest airline presence at Schiphol, says this position is now untenable in light of the caps.

It appears the move was a government-wide plan, as country officials have already raised the flight tax for the Netherlands. Schiphol took similar measures and increased taxes for the airlines themselves, putting more pressure on airlines to avoid cheap routes and maximize the type of flight they offer. One member of parliament said of the taxes, “Through these measures, you know that Schiphol will no longer be a cheap island.”

How quickly changes are likely to be seen is hard to tell, but regular travelers who often utilize Schiphol should anticipate a shift in its connectivity, especially for cheaper short-distance flights around Western Europe or for longer-haul flights connecting through the airport.

The airport is also currently operating under a separate, unrelated cap owing to the travel chaos seen across the world. Again, Schiphol’s hub reputation has made the problems more acute, with massive lines, significant delays, and baggage problems forcing the airport’s hand. American Airlines even made the decision to stop operating in Schiphol Airport until the problems lessen.

It joins Heathrow, Gatwick, and Frankfurt in capping summer flights in an attempt to alleviate the pressure on handling staff while they attempt to fill positions vacated during the pandemic. The cap being brought in 2023 will be a larger one.

Although Schiphol is the first major airport to change its policies so drastically for environmental reasons, changes are being seen across the industry. In 2021, France took the bold step of banning short-haul flights if a bus or train was available as an alternative.

Under the rule, any flight where someone could get a bus or train to the destination in two and a half hours or under was no longer allowed. Other countries are mulling similar rules but will most likely wait until the industry has settled into a more typical routine once again.

Routes between 3000km and 5000km are generally viewed as the best for the environment.

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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July 28, 2022
Germany’s Busiest Airport Is The Latest To Add Flight Limits To Combat Travel Chaos

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Shortly after Amsterdam and London’s airports announced they would add a capacity cap in order to help air traffic operators cope with the surging travel demand, Germany’s busiest airport has announced it will be joining them in limiting daily flights. If you’re due to fly via Frankfurt International in the coming weeks, we advise you to check your flight status ASAP.

Since summer started, European airports have been under severe pressure as passenger numbers skyrocket unexpectedly, at a time when staffing constraint is widespread, directly impacting operations and resulting in other operational issues. Now, yet another airport, one of Europe’s best equipped, has reached a tipping point:

Europe’s Summer Of Travel Chaos Has No End In Sight

The lifting of Covid rules has opened the travel floodgates after they remained shut for the better part of two years. Travelers again have unrestricted access to the world’s top tourist destinations, from the sunny Caribbean to the History-packed Europe. One major downside? The industry wasn’t at all prepared for what turned out to be its busiest summer in years.

It seems like the mass redundancies both airlines and airports resorted to at the peak of the pandemic has come to bite them. Even though confidence in travel has been reinstated and millions of people are now looking forward to flying again, there simply isn’t enough pilots, flight attendants, air traffic controllers and even border officers to manage the unprecedented influx of passengers.

As a result, two thirds of European airports are experiencing some kind of disruption, whether it’s multiple flights delayed or cancelled or logistical challenges. Not even Europe’s busiest hubs, which were supposed to be better prepared for such events, have come out unscathed. They are, in fact, among some of the worst for delays in the whole continent.

This is why Frankfurt has been forced to take urgent action. Since July 19, Germany’s main international airport has a new flight limit in place. The number of take-offs and landings is limited to 88 per hour, meaning airlines will not be allowed to increase frequency on Frankfurt routes for the time being, and will be forced to trim down their schedule with immediate effect.

To put it simply, a series of cancellations is due.

Frankfurt Hopes The Hourly Cap Will Help Stabilize The Situation

Jens Ritter, Lufthansa’s CEO, praised the move, stating that Frankfurt Airport still suffered from reduced staff and resources even after an increase in capacity for ground handling services, and multiple schedule reductions. Flight cancellations will, of course, be a byproduct of that, but that is a price the airport is willing to pay to normalize the situation.

Those will help ‘stabilize’ things and contribute to an ‘even reduction’, in Ritter’s words, with the revised flight schedule better reflecting the new reality. Right now, passengers traveling into or out of Frankfurt International are advised to check their flights have not been axed, or changed to a later time or date, following the introduction of the hourly cap.

Not all airlines will be happy with Frankfurt’s short-term solution to the problem, though. Just last week, Emirates publicly rebuked a similar decision by London Heathrow, being one of several major airlines whose summer plans were disregarded after a 100,000-daily flights limit started being enforced.

Emirates defiantly opposed Heathrow, stating it planned to operate as scheduled and calling the airport ‘unreasonable’. The rhetoric has since changed, and the UAE’s flag carrier have agreed to cooperate over the next couple of weeks in smoothing operations, but the news coming from Frankfurt will surely not go down well with them – or any other more critical airlines, for that matter.

So far, no major carrier has rebelled against this new flight limit. Additionally, as things stand, Frankfurt is enjoying its busiest month since Covid was declared a pandemic: in July, a total of 5 million passengers used it for travel, still 24.1 per cent lower than pre-pandemic figures, but a whopping 181 per cent increase year over year.

Flying Abroad This Summer? You Better Get Insured

Worried about cancelled flights? You can always get insured ahead of traveling. We may not be able to predict which routes will be cut and which will not, but we can minimize our own risks of being left with no compensation, or without assistance if we’re affected.

You can find out more about comprehensive insurance policies covering flight delays, cancellations, lost luggage, Covid and other health-related concerns clicking here.

Read More:

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Don’t Book Those Flight Tickets Just Yet – Wait Until Summer’s Over

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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July 22, 2022