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Nothing can ruin a spring break getaway faster than encountering a travel disruption at the airport. Here’s what Globe Aware volunteers can expect when they travel domestically or internationally for spring break 2024.


This Florida airport had the most delays: The best, worst airports for spring break travel

Kathleen Wong
March 10, 2023
USA TODAY

Nothing can ruin a spring break getaway faster than encountering a travel disruption at the airport.

Half of all travelers with spring break plans are “concerned” about disruptions impacting their travel plans, according to travel platform Hopper’s 2024 Spring Break Travel Outlook.

The report said last year saw a higher-than-average volume of disruptions. During spring break, 20.1% of flights were delayed, compared to 18.4% throughout 2023.

For smooth travels, aGamble analyzed flight departure data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics to see which airports had the most disruptions during March and April 2023 – the usual spring break period. Disruptions included delays, cancellations and diversions.

Haven't booked a spring break trip yet?4 things to know about pricing, destinations

“With spring break officially kicking off, airports are expected to be crowded throughout the coming weeks, and travelers may face flight disruptions depending on their departure location,” Collin Czarnecki, a researcher for aGamble, told USA TODAY in an email.

“It might not be surprising that a majority of airports with the most flight disruptions are located in spring break destination hotspots such as Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Las Vegas, and Miami,” Czarnecki said. On the other hand, the airports with the best on-time departures during the spring break period last year were Pittsburgh International Airport in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Portland International Airport in Portland, Oregon.

Czarnecki also added that the second and third week of March will be the busiest at security checkpoints, so be sure to arrive at the airport with ample time.

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The worst airports for spring break travel

  1. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – 34.87% of flights delayed, 4.63% canceled
  2. Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nev. – 31.44% of flights delayed, 1.47% canceled
  3. Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Fla. – 31.06% of flights delayed, 1.52% canceled
  4. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport in Baltimore, Md. – 31.26% flights delayed, 1.22% canceled
  5. Chicago Midway International Airport in Chicago, Ill. – 29.04% of flights delayed, 1.32% canceled
  6. Miami International Airport in Miami, Fla. – 29.22% of flights delayed, 0.88% canceled
  7. Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, N.J. – 25.81% of flights delayed, 2.53% canceled
  8. Dallas-Forth Worth International Airport in Dallas, Texas – 25.11% of flights delayed, 2.49% canceled
  9. Denver International Airport in Denver, Colo. – 26.51% of flights delayed, 1.04% canceled
  10. John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, N.Y. – 25.06% of flights delayed, 2.23% canceled

The best airports for spring break travel

  1. Pittsburgh International Airport in Pittsburgh, Penn. – 83.8% on-time flight departures
  2. Portland International Airport in Portland, Ore. – 83.2% on-time flight departures
  3. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport in Cincinnati, Ohio – 82.2% on-time flight departures
  4. Washington Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. – 82% on-time flight departures
  5. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C. – 81.9% on-time flight departures
  6. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport in Minneapolis, Minn. – 81.8% on-time flight departures
  7. Indianapolis International Airport in Indianapolis, Ind. – 81.7% on-time flight departures
  8. Seattle/Tacoma International Airport in Seattle, Was. – 81.6% on-time flight departures
  9. Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland, Ohio – 81.3% on-time flight departures
  10. Philadelphia International Airport in Philadelphia, Penn. – 80.9% on-time flight departures

Spring break is already here, but before our Globe Aware volunteers hit the beach or hop on that plane, let’s talk safety tips. It’s crucial to keep safety tips in mind, especially when you’re traveling to unfamiliar places, so here's how you can stay safe!


SAFETY TIPS FOR SPRING BREAKERS HEADED ABROAD

Spring Break is around the corner. Before you hit the beach or hop on a plane, let's talk safety tips to ensure a memorable time.

By Aysia Morton
Feb 27, 2024
Travel Noire

Spring Break is around the corner. It’s time to forget about lectures and homework and think of unforgettable adventures. But before you hit the beach or hop on that plane, let’s talk safety tips.

While Spring Break is all about fun and relaxation, it’s crucial to keep safety tips in mind, especially when you’re traveling to unfamiliar places. Whether you’re gearing up for a tropical getaway or planning to explore a new city, take a few precautions to ensure your Spring Break is memorable for all the right reasons.

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RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION THOROUGHLY

Before you start packing, take some time to research. Learn about local laws, customs, and any potential risks you should be aware of. Check out travel advisories and stay informed about any safety concerns in the area. Knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions and stay safe while you’re exploring.

It’s also worthwhile to be aware and respectful of local cultures and customs. Though you want to have fun, remember that many people call these countries home.

STAY CONNECTED AND SHARE YOUR ITINERARY

Sure, it’s exciting to think about disconnecting and unwinding in paradise. But it’s essential to stay accessible, especially when you’re traveling abroad. Share your travel plans with a trusted friend or family member back home. Keep them updated about where you’re going and when you’ll be back. It’s also a good idea to check in regularly during your trip to let them know you’re safe and sound.

PRACTICE RESPONSIBLE DRINKING AND EATING

Partying your nights away is typical during Spring Break. We all love to let our hair down and have a good time, but it’s crucial to do so responsibly. Pace yourself, and stay hydrated. When it comes to food, be cautious—use reviews, opt for higher-rated establishments, and avoid any foods that could cause stomach issues on your trip. Other than that, eat well and enjoy the local cuisine.

SECURE YOUR BELONGINGS

Protecting your belongings is key, especially when you’re traveling. Invest in a good-quality backpack or travel wallet to keep your valuables safe and secure. Try not to draw too much attention to yourself, especially in crowded tourist areas.

USE RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION

Getting around in a new place can be challenging, but safety should always come first. Stick to reputable taxi services or ride-share apps, and try to avoid accepting rides from strangers. Do your research on public transportation options before you go, and keep emergency contact numbers handy just in case.

USE A BUDDY SYSTEM

Exploring a new place with friends is always more fun—and safer too. Stick together, look out for each other, and keep the lines of communication open at all times. Having a buddy by your side can provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind during your adventures.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS AND BE STREET-SMART

Finally, trust your gut and use your common sense. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation and seek help if needed. Be mindful when interacting with others, and always stay aware of your surroundings.

If you keep these tips in mind, you can ensure that your Spring Break memories are nothing short of amazing. So go ahead, pack your bags, and get ready for the fun—just remember to stay safe.

Globe Aware volunteers and travel lovers can find out how air travel in the United States could soon improve dramatically!


Air travel may be about to get better. Here's what it means for your next flight.

By Christopher Elliott
USA TODAY
March 1, 2024

Your next flight may get an upgrade.

No, not as in a bigger seat in the front of the cabin. It's bigger than that -- much bigger.

Air travel in the United States could soon improve dramatically. Here's how:

  • New federal protections for air travelers. The U.S. Senate passed new rules that require better fee disclosure, free family seating, and new ticket refund rights. It also proposed appointing a new Assistant Secretary to handle airline service problems.
  • Better seats. Southwest has announced ambitious plans to overhaul its cabin interiors. It joins other carriers, including Japan Airlines, LOT, and Swiss in rolling out new and more comfortable seats.
  • Upgraded airline performance. Air carriers have canceled fewer flights lately. For the first 11 months of last year, domestic airlines canceled only 1.4 percent of flights, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT). That's way below the 2.5 percent cancellation rate for the first 11 months of 2022 and significantly better than the same period in pre-pandemic 2019.

"There's a sense of optimism for the future of U.S. air travel," said Duncan Greenfield-Turk, the chief travel designer for Global Travel Moments, "The airline industry has an opportunity to rebuild and reimagine air travel, potentially ushering in a new golden age marked by superior service, innovation, and passenger satisfaction."

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Is it time to start celebrating a new golden age of air travel?

Hang on, hang on. We're not there yet.

In fact, economy class passengers are still pretty unhappy with their travel experience, according to the latest J. D. Power North American Airline Satisfaction Study. In categories such as ease of travel, onboard experience, and trust, the airlines scored lower than they did last year.

"We’re seeing signs of weakening consumer satisfaction," said Mike Taylor, J.D. Power's managing director for travel and hospitality.

The silver lining: Amid declining fares, passengers say they got more value for their money when they flew compared to 2022.

Hey, it's a start.

But passengers say change is in the air. Alex Beene, a community coordinator from Nashville and a frequent air traveler, said his last few flights were on time and went smoothly. And he hardly had to wait at the TSA screening area.

"I've never felt as good about air travel as I have the last few months," he told me.

He's not alone. I've spoken with many air travelers who share his sense of optimism. It feels like for the first time in years, the stars are aligning for airline passengers.

But are they really?

This golden age could be a fake-out

Reality check: This new golden age could turn out to be fool's gold.

The new luggage fees announced last week felt like a splash of cold water on all that optimism. This year, four domestic airlines have raised their checked baggage fees. United Airlines is the latest to announce an increase. You'll pay $40 for your first checked bag, or $35 if you pay online at least 24 hours before your flight. That's an increase of $5.

And the new Senate provisions for air travel, while positive, still have to be reconciled with the House version of the FAA Reauthorization bill this spring. That probably means some of the more pro-consumer provisions will get stricken by the airline-friendly Congress.

How about those new airline seats? Generally, new aircraft interiors improve the flying experience. But Southwest's new interior design, which debuts next year, has been a little controversial. Critics have hammered its new seats for looking too thin and uncomfortable. One popular TikToker called them "lawn chairs."

That may be unfair. True, the seats cut a slender profile, but they are the result of "careful and extensive" research, according to the airline. Also, none of the critics have sat in one of the seats yet, so there's that.

What about the airline industry's performance? Yes, it's impressive, and the government wastes no opportunity to take full credit for it. But it will only last until the next computer outage or bad weather plunges an airline hub into total chaos.

"Let me be blunt," said Bill McGee, a senior fellow for Aviation at the American Economic Liberties Project. "The airline industry is still broken."

How to have a better flight anyway

Golden age or not, there's only one thing that really matters: How is your next flight? None of the trends and statistics really matter if an airline cancels your flight and leaves you sleeping on the airport floor. Here's how to sidestep bad service:

  • Book a ticket on an airline that offers excellent service. There's a reason airlines like Delta, Southwest and Alaska keep winning customer service awards. If you cheap out and buy a ticket on a discount airline, you will get what you pay for. No golden age for you!
  • Avoid chaos. Try to avoid weekends and especially the days before and after major holidays. And always try to book the first flight of the day so that if something goes wrong, you won't be stranded at an airport waiting for a connection. If you have to fly on a busy holiday, pack your patience and a good travel insurance policy.
  • Know your rights. Whether Congress passes new laws or not, you still need to know your rights as an air traveler. (Yes, you have some.) For domestic flights, the DOT's Fly Rights page is an excellent resource. You can fly during a difficult time and still get decent service if you know your rights and can advocate for yourself if service goes south.


But perhaps the best advice of all is to keep your expectations modest. No one is turning the clock back to the 1960s, when even the economy class seats had plenty of legroom and the service was stellar. In a deregulated, post-pandemic airline industry, take nothing for granted – and focus on the basics.

"The greatest service of all," said MIT management professor Arnold Barnett, "is getting you to your destination safely."

Monday, 26 February 2024 15:45

India Goa

Vibrant and Tropical Goa

Goa, situated on the southwestern coast of India, is a small state celebrated for its enchanting beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural legacy. Having been a Portuguese colony for over 450 years, it became a part of India in 1961. The architectural style, churches, and festivals of Goa distinctly reflect the enduring influence of Portuguese culture. Renowned globally for its diverse festivals like Carnival, Shigmo, and the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, as well as its stunning beaches like Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem, Goa captivates visitors with its distinctive amalgamation of history, culture, and natural splendor. This unique blend makes it a favored destination for those seeking a tranquil beach holiday infused with both Indian and Portuguese flavors.

The ideal period for a week-long stay in Goa is from November to March. Temperatures tend to increase in late spring, with the monsoon season lasting from July to September.

Work

Although there is a considerable journey ahead to attain complete equality for those with disabilities in India, different Indian organizations have made strides to improve access to education, employment opportunities, and other essential resources, empowering the community to initiate a transformative path toward overcoming poverty.

Get ready to create a significant difference by volunteering at a social initiative committed to empowering visually and hearing-impaired students in the Porvorim region. During your three days there, you'll get the opportunity to interact with children and/or adults, support educational activities, and play a role in fostering their holistic development. Experience firsthand the resilience and determination of these exceptional individuals as you collaborate to bring about positive change.

SAMPLE INDIA GOA ITINERARY

Leisure

There's plenty of time to appreciate stunning architecture, chill beaches, fun shopping trips, and experience the authentic Goan way of life.

Your itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks in the North and South of Goa, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, and the vibrant markets of Mapusa and Margao. Cultural activities may also include:

  • Coconut plucking
  • Fishing
  • Cooking Class
  • Hindi Classes
  • Lounging at the beach ( there may be additional costs if you want to use another hotel's lounge facilities/restaurants).
  • Water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling ( some activities may come with additional costs).

Optional Activities

Additional activities incurring extra charges, including transportation, are available as options. Please notify us in advance if you wish to partake in any of these activities, enabling our coordinator to check for availability and feasibility within your schedule. Should you extend your stay in Goa beyond a week, your coordinator will gladly guide you toward services and resources for your assistance.

  • Explore Spice Plantations: Take a guided tour of spice plantations in the countryside. Immerse yourself in the aromas of cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla while learning about the region's rich agricultural practices.
  • Dudhsagar Waterfall Trek: Embark on a trek to Dudhsagar Waterfall, one of India's tallest waterfalls. The journey through lush forests offers breathtaking views, and you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below.
  • River Cruise on Mandovi River: Experience the vibrant culture of Goa with a scenic river cruise on the Mandovi River. Enjoy traditional Goan music, dance, and a delightful dinner aboard

Food and Lodging

Volunteers will be accommodated in a modest hotel. All have running hot water, flushing western-style toilets, and electricity. Though the accommodations cannot be labeled luxurious, you will find that they are more than sufficient. Each hotel room can accommodate two individuals. Hotels may not be beachfront or in immediate proximity to the beach, but still close by.

Transportation will be provided to your work site from the hotel.

Goan cuisine includes rice, fresh seafood, coconut, vegetables, meat, bread, pork, and indigenous spices. Notably, kokum and vinegar add a distinctive touch to the culinary repertoire.

Being a coastal region, seafood is a significant part of Goan cuisine. Dishes like fish curry rice, prawn balchão, and fisherman's wharf are popular. Breakfast will be provided at the hotel. Lunch will be a packed tiffin on volunteering days.

Arranging Your Airfare

All U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport and valid Indian visa to enter and exit India.

Verify whether your departure airport offers direct flight routes to Goa. As an alternative option, consider booking a flight to a major international airport in India and then opting for a connecting domestic flight to reach Goa.

Upon arrival at Dabolim airport, you will be greeted by a Globe Aware coordinator and transferred to your accommodation.

Safety and Security

While Goa is generally considered safe, it is advisable to avoid venturing into less-traveled or poorly lit areas. The influx of partygoers in certain parts of Goa has led to the emergence of some folks being under the influence of substances, which is illegal.

Exercise caution, don't flash expensive items around, and practice common sense.

While India captivates the senses and volunteers may be enthusiastic about capturing it in photos, be mindful that Goans prefer you seek permission before taking any of their pictures.

Monday, 26 February 2024 14:49

It's Time To Step Outside

March cover

Tropical and Vibrant Goa!

About Goa

Goa, situated on the southwestern coast of India, is a small state celebrated for its enchanting beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural legacy. Having been a Portuguese colony for over 450 years, it became a part of India in 1961. The architectural style, churches, and festivals of Goa distinctly reflect the enduring influence of Portuguese culture. Renowned globally for its diverse festivals like Carnival, Shigmo, and the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, as well as its stunning beaches like Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem, Goa captivates visitors with its distinctive amalgamation of history, culture, and natural splendor. This unique blend makes it a favored destination for those seeking a tranquil beach holiday infused with both Indian and Portuguese flavors.

Tropical and Vibrant Goa cont.!

Work Project

Although there is a considerable journey ahead to attain complete equality for those with disabilities in India, different Indian organizations have made strides to improve access to education, employment opportunities, and other essential resources, empowering the community to initiate a transformative path toward overcoming poverty.

Get ready to create a significant difference by volunteering at a social initiative committed to empowering visually and hearing-impaired students in the Porvorim region. During your three days there, you'll get the opportunity to interact with children and/or adults, support educational activities, and play a role in fostering their holistic development. Experience firsthand the resilience and determination of these exceptional individuals as you collaborate to bring about positive change.

Leisure

There's plenty of time to appreciate stunning architecture, chill beaches, fun shopping trips, and experience the authentic Goan way of life.

Your itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks in the North and South of Goa, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, and the vibrant markets of Mapusa and Margao. Optional experiences abound, such as trekking to a picturesque waterfall, exploring spice plantations, or embarking on a boat cruise!

There's so much to do in Goa, and Globe Aware is ready to welcome our adventurous volunteers! 

Learn More About Globe Aware's New Goa, India Program

Updates From The Hill Tribes - Highlights From Solo Volunteering in Thailand

During your one-week stay in our Thailand Hill Tribes program, you might discover yourself engaging in English teaching sessions with some of the children, just like our solo volunteer did during her stay. This is just one of many activities you'll engage in during your volunteer vacation!

For our Hill Tribes' beneficiaries, it's a chance to cultivate new global friendships, enhance their conversational skills, and acquire crucial English vocabulary. 

Our solo volunteer, Kelsey, included a lesson during her week, on ways to verbally refuse someone who might be a danger to the students. 

The Hill Tribe people live in remote areas scattered across Northern Thailand with little or no access to education. Many fled from conflict in Myanmar or other surrounding countries. This lack of education makes the children prone to poverty and vulnerable to exploitation within Thailand's ubiquitous sex and drug trade. Those who can get an education grow up able to take much better care of themselves, their families, and their community.

This underscores the significance of fundamental yet crucial lessons like these for the community. 

Learn More About Globe Aware's Thailand Hill Tribes Trip

 

Updates From The Hill Tribes Cont.

Here are some additional updates from our Hill Tribe's location!

Thank you to those who gave so generously at Christmas – ALL the children in the hostels received a gift and the young people at university or vocational college received a Christmas bonus. The children sang Christmas carols and thanked all the carers by singing at their homes. Some parents even joined the celebrations and games.

There is also now new playground equipment and a large drying shelter for one of the hostels. The drying shelter is needed with more than 60 children living here. Finding a sheltered flat area to dry clothes is essential. At times when no clothes are drying, it will be a fabulous flat area for the children to play.

Joining Rick Steves On Stage

Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Executive Director of Globe Aware, joined Rick Steves, a prominent authority on European travel in America, as a speaker at the Winter Wanderings event at Auburn University. The event, hosted by the Women's Philanthropy Board, centered around international travel. This was a great start to unraveling the world of volunteer vacations in 2024!

If you’re looking for a keynote speaker or lecturer at your school or event on the following topics, contact us at office@globeaware.com. We cover a variety of topics, including: 

  • Hard power vs soft power
  • How voluntourism can expand your philanthropic footprint
  • How service abroad can help you recruit and retain top talent
  • Commencement addresses on subject of humanities
  • Commencement addresses using your power for good
  • Ethical tourism vs orphanage/poverty/white savior complex tourism
     

We eagerly anticipate sharing an abundance of essential information about volunteering and travel at your school or event. 

Monday, 26 February 2024 14:31

Is Ecuador safe to visit after unrest?

Globe Aware volunteers considering Ecuador for a volunteer vacation will be relieved to learn that the country is safe for travelers. Find out the latest update on the situation in this South American destination and what to expect.


Is Ecuador safe to visit after unrest? On this tour, a traveler finds serenity

By Jeri Clausing
Feb 05, 2024
Travel Weekly

QUITO, Ecuador -- Not long after I posted my first picture from Quito on Facebook, the comment I was expecting came in: "Isn't Ecuador blowing up right now?"

Hardly, I thought, slightly amused as I sat in my room in the historical Casa Gangotena hotel here, listening to children gleefully chasing pigeons and puppies in the plaza outside my open window.

No, the recent eruption of cartel-related violence in the country's port city of Guayaquil isn't funny. But traveling last week in Ecuador's interior revealed a situation markedly different from the sensational headlines about the state of emergency that was declared after a cartel leader escaped from prison and his supporters seized temporary control of a Guayaquil television station three weeks ago.

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While much of the country, which is unaccustomed to such brazen and public gang violence, went into a self-imposed lockdown and a few cruises were canceled or altered in the initial days after the attacks, life outside of Guayaquil last week felt just as safe and friendly as when I was here two years ago.

Quito's Old Town had the same serene vibe, with mestizo women lining the sidewalks to sell fresh fruits and vegetables; residents crowding in to get herbs and cleansing treatments from their favorite curanderas; and tourists and residents enjoying a sunny day in the park in front of the presidential palace.

To the south, in the city of Cuenca, Sunday crowds filled churches, outdoor markets and rooftop cafes. And come Monday morning, the streets were bustling with business as usual.

Noticeably missing: the military. While the president declared a state of emergency so he could call up soldiers to battle the gangs, there was little military presence outside of Guayaquil. And it was certainly nothing like the regular patrols one sees on Mexico's beaches and across that cartel-plagued country's resort towns.

In fact, during a week here in January hosted by Metropolitan Touring, traveling between Quito, the private rainforest reserve of Mashpi and Cuenca, I saw only two small groups of soldiers walking in Quito. And there was no visible military presence at either the Quito or Cuenca airports.

Local police and private security officers wore flak jackets, but they were nonetheless friendly and seemingly at ease. In the plaza of Old Town Quito, two officers approached to offer me a map. In Cuenca, a security guard at the university smiled and pointed out the dog sleeping in his guard shack as I was snapping photos of two other nearby street pups.

The country's tourism minister, Niels Olsen, said in a statement that security in urban areas and across the country's transportation infrastructure has been "effectively reinforced" and that "tourist areas, including the Galapagos Islands, have maintained their usual tranquility, with all tourism services operating normally."

Nick Philipps Jones, a Mexico-based security consultant whose firm, Sargasso Group, specializes in the region, said that currently, the highland provinces, which Cuenca and Quito are part of, are "relatively calm and safer," while the coastal provinces and areas along Ecuador's borders with Colombia and Peru are considered high-risk.

Indeed, in Cuenca, my guides said that while most residents were leery of going out immediately after the television station attack, their worries passed quickly. The biggest concern now seems to be whether a current overnight curfew will remain in effect and what impact it will have on the annual Carnival and its traditional all-night parties next month.

Still, travel companies are beefing up security and taking safety and customer concerns seriously.
Metropolitan Touring, one of the region's largest tour operators, said it is working with travel agents and customers to rebook wary travelers away from Guayaquil and through Quito if they desire.

And the company immediately hired a security consultant to help it update its protocols and review the security practices of its suppliers, according to company spokesman Dominic Hamilton. For instance, he said, the company's drivers now all have tracking software. They are also altering their routes.

Hamilton said the company canceled a few city tours in Guayaquil and the Andes for a few days, "just to get the lay of the land." But airports and hotels have all stayed open, and "everything went back very, very quickly," he said.
He also emphasized that no travelers have been hurt, and crime involving tourists in Ecuador is "very rare."

The challenge now, he said, is one of perception. "How dangerous is it for an international traveler to come? … Unfortunately, the headlines, the vivid images of these young guys in the television studio, painted a much more violent and scary scene than is the reality on the ground."

The World Travel Awards 2024 nominated Cuba as the Leading Adventure Destination of the Caribbean 2024. Globe Aware volunteers looking to book a volunteer vacation, might consider Cuba!


Cuba Nominated as a Leading Adventure Destination

Edited by Beatriz Montes de Oca
2024-02-23
Radio HC

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Havana, Feb 23 (RHC) The World Travel Awards 2024 nominated Cuba as the Leading Adventure Destination of the Caribbean 2024.

A note from the island’s Ministry of Tourism (Mintur) states that although the nation has achieved recent successes, it now has the opportunity to achieve maximum recognition in the Global Travel and Tourism Industry.

The World Travel Awards are a sort of Oscars of the tourism industry. They have been held annually since 1993 and were created by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

The awards are presented both globally and at eight international regional levels, in a wide range of categories including hotels-tourist accommodations, attractions and airlines-transportation. (Source: PL)

Tuesday, 20 February 2024 10:53

The 13 All-Time Best Movies About Travel

The Oscars are coming up in a few weeks, and here are some of the best travel movies to celebrate! Do our Globe Aware volunteers recognize any of these movies, and do you have more to add!?


These Are The 13 All-Time Best Movies About Travel

By Gary Leff
February 18, 2024
View From The Wing

The best travel movies ever made is a mix of life up in the air (the art of traveling) and life on the ground (human drama unfolding in interesting places around the globe). The list of best movies about travel weighs heavily towards planes and airports but I’ve also given some thought to being in an unfamiliar place and growing as a person because of the places you’ve been.

I think each of these films is a classic for a reason, and I try to offer a brief take why they’re one of the best travel movies. That even holds for some of the ones on the list that may not have been so critically acclaimed.

Up in the Air is top of the list of best travel movies for reasons that should be obvious, Die Hard 2 is awesome even if it’s absurd with more plot holes than the business plan for Washington Dulles’ Independence Air. But was there every really a better air crash investigator than Kris Kristofferson in the broadly panned Millenium?

Here’s my top 13 best travel movies. What are yours? What am I missing?

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1. Up in the Air

The movie was not in any way related to the book, which I read on a United Washington Dulles – San Francisco flight in 2001. The two female leads in the film didn’t even exist in the book (Vera Farmiga kind of sort of did). But George Clooney plays us, they go through security and throw down elite status cards and Clooney is on a quest to pad his mileage balance.

It tries too hard at times to be an allegory for the Great Recession which was at its depths in 2009 when the film was released. It makes one fundamental mistake about rental cars. But the airport and flight scenes, along with hotel check-ins, are absolutely awesome. To know me is to fly with me. Oh, and there’s a deleted scene you may not know about.

2. Die Hard 2

A year after taking down terrorists at Los Angeles’ Nakatomi Building, Bruce Willis’ John McClane battles terrorists again — this time at Washington Dulles airport.

Nevermind that the pay phones at the airport say Pacific Bell giving away that this isn’t really Dulles. And I’ve never figured out why planes in a holding pattern that were running out of fuel never sought to divert to Baltimore or Richmond. But Willis trying to wave off a plane that was about to crash land was just a phenomenal scene… And so was the late Fred Thompson ordering all inbound aircraft into holding by declaring “Pack ’em, stack ’em, and rack ’em.”

3. Flight

Denzel Washington as an alcoholic pilot. Most of the movie is Washington (not) dealing with his addiction but the controlled crash scene is incredible.

4. Airplane!

Over Macho Grande? I don’t think I’ll ever get over Macho Grande.

If you’re rather watch Airplane as a drama, it tracks closely with Zero Hour!. The Zero Hour script was purchased by the writers and many scenes are literally a comedic version of the 1957 film.

In fact, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two movies:

5. Before Sunrise (Vienna) Before Sunset (Paris) Before Midnight (Greece)

Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy walk and talk — with youthful idealism masked as cynicism in Vienna, reconnecting years later through the streets of Paris, and dealing with the challenges of their relationship and doubts about life on an island in Greece.

The screenwriting is phenomenal and acting believable, and we get a taste of a different place in Europe in each film.

6. National Lampoon’s Vacation and European Vacation (but not Christmas Vacation)

The first film was the classic family road trip as Chevy Chase takes his clan on a journey through its own history, his own mid-life regrets, and his deeply committed quest to be a good father — taking everyone to Wally World and flirting with Christie Brinkley along the way.

7. The Terminal

Tom Hanks is on a quest that brings him to New York, but he can’t leave the airport because his passport is invalidated by a coup in his home country. It’s based on the true story of an 18 year stay at Paris Charles de Gaulle.

8. Lost in Translation

Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson are lost and detached from their lives, and explore Tokyo together. They see the city as foreigners, they’re foreign to each other and to themselves, and the story revolves as much around the Park Hyatt Tokyo as it does Japanese karaoke.

I love the Park Hyatt on its own terms (though it’s not really conveniently located) but the movie makes the property special, and the property helps make the movie special. It’s my favorite Bill Murray performance and of course I’ve been unable to sleep in Shinjuku though I found myself at the Denny’s rather than the New York Bar. No Scarlett Johansson, but it was the best Denny’s I ever visited.

9. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Holiday travel is rough. I hate flying on ‘amateur days’. It’s far worse during irregular operations. But if you’re determined enough, you can get where you’re going — even if it takes changing from a plane to a train and circumstances force you to drive across much of the country.

Although I actually prefer the Charles Grodin / Robert De Niro version Midnight Run.

10. Airport

This 1970 film was the first of a series, and a classic disaster movie that intertwines the lives of people dealing with keeping an airport open during a major weather event while a bomber plots to blow up a plane.

11. Millennium

Ok, so this movie only has an 11% ‘Fresh’ rating at Rotten Tomatoes. Kris Kristofferson plays an NTSB investigator looking into the collision of a Boeing 747 and a DC-10 where all the passengers of the 747 appeared to be dead prior to ground impact, even though the plane caught fire only once it hit the ground. Because, time travel.

12. Pushing Tin

John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton are air traffic controllers. It’s dark, and probably not a great movie, but the scenes at New York TRACON are awesome.

13. Boeing Boeing

Tony Curtis is an American in Paris dating 3 different flight attendants — for Air France, Lufthansa, and British United Airways — whose international routes never have them in town at the same time. They all live with him whenever they’re in Paris, with photos and personal touches swapped out to match each one of them.

Then technology intervenes: faster planes means schedule changes, so that all of their schedules overlap, and hijinks ensue…

There are other films I considered for this list. For instance I felt like I had to include Sully but the truth is that the whole movie was just an excuse for an amazing flight sequence – but you can’t really sell an evening’s entertainment that lasts just several minutes. Still, what they did re-creating US Airways 1549 was incredible.

I even considered She’s Out Of My League. There are few jobs worse than TSA screener. It’s low rent security theater and you have to wear rubber gloves because the work environment is gross and that’s before you pat down grandma. But once in awhile Hollywood can give the men and women in blue a win.

And I thought about Soul Plane, but…

What else belongs as one of the best travel movies?

Tuesday, 20 February 2024 10:46

The 12 Best Places to Find Tigers in India

India has around 3,000 tigers which makes up about 80% of the world’s tiger population! Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places to find tigers in India and is conveniently positioned if your travel includes the volunteer vacation site of Jaipur.


The 12 Best Places to Find Tigers in India

February 18, 2024
Breaking Travel News

Although tigers in India are seriously endangered, numbers are on the rise thanks to the herculean efforts of conservationists. However, there is no guarantee of a tiger sighting when visiting, but the wonderful National Parks which India has to offer are still a rewarding experience, with the chance to spot a multitude of creatures and an array of flora.

It’s been said that India is just as good a safari destination as Africa; it even has its own ‘Big Five’ – the Asiatic leopard, Asiatic lion, Bengal tiger, Indian elephant and the One-horned Rhino.
With so many places to choose from, where are the best places to find these incredible animals in India?

Where can you see Tigers in India?

India has around 3,000 tigers, making up about 80% of the world’s tiger population!

With 50+ designated Tiger Reserves, it can be tempting to try and cram in as many parks as possible. However, focusing on a few and spending two or three days is a good strategy. Some distances between parks can be very long, and the early morning safaris can make it all a bit exhausting. That’s why a longer stay in each park is advisable to give you more chances to spot those stripes.

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When is the best time to see Tigers in India?

The best time to spot tigers in India is in April, May and June because the heat brings them out to the watering holes. However, if the high temperature is too much for you, then we suggest the cooler months of March to mid-April. The winter months are cold and misty, so sightings are less likely unless you’re in the South.

The best places to find Tigers in India

North India -

1. Corbett Tiger Reserve

Top of the list of the best places to find tigers in India is Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. Corbett Tiger Reserve has the highest tiger numbers among India’s 50 tiger reserves with 252 inside the reserve and 266 using the reserve, according to a report released by the Union Environment Department.

Founded in 1936 as Hailey National Park, Corbett is India’s oldest and most well-known National Park. In 1973, the first Project Tiger launch was held there. The park is named after Jim Corbett, a British wildlife photographer, former hunter, tracker, naturalist, and author.

This distinct tiger habitat is 520 square kilometres in size and includes hills, meadows, riverine belts, marshy depressions and a sizable lake. It is one of the few tiger reserves in India that permits overnight stays, making it a truly unique experience for visitors. The park is a favourite among wildlife enthusiasts as it is also home to unusual species like the rare fish-eating crocodile.

2. Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places to find tigers in India and is conveniently positioned if your visit includes the Golden Triangle destinations of Agra, Delhi and Jaipur. It’s home to around 81 diurnal tigers who are active during the day, unlike most tigers who are nocturnal, increasing your chances of glimpsing them.

Once the hunting grounds of the Jaipur Maharajas, Ranthambore, is one of the most famous national parks in India and is home to a wide variety of mammals and reptiles, 272 kinds of birds, and around 300 species of plants. Nature aside, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ranthambore Fort lies at its centre which is well worth a visit. The park can get very busy, so book in advance to secure your time slots for the best zones in the park.

Central India -

3. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park, formerly the wildlife reserve of the Maharajas, is a great place to see a flash of striped fur because it contains one of India’s higher tiger populations. At the latest count, the park is home to around 60 tigers. As it’s fairly small in size compared to the other National Parks, Bandhavgarh is one the best places to find tigers in India as you have a good chance of viewing a tiger up close on safari.

In addition, the park is home to a sizable leopard population, 250 different bird species, 70 different kinds of butterflies, and a wide variety of reptiles.

4. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Pench National Park was the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, and hundreds of tourists come here to view many of the characters from the tale. These include Baloo (the sloth bear), Akela (the Indian wolf), Raksha (the female Wolf), and of course Shere Khan (the royal Bengal tiger).

In January 2022, the park lost its most famous resident, Tigress T15, more commonly known as Collarwali. She died of old age at 16, a mean feat considering the average age of a tiger is 12 and she gave birth to 29 cubs in eight litters! She also gave birth to 5 cubs in one go, which is very rare for a tigress to do. Today, Pench has over 53 tigers living in the reserve and an additional 80 tigers (approximately) who come to visit.

The park is also home to barking deer, four-horned antelopes, Indian leopards, striped hyenas, and a variety of native birds.

5. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Also known as Kanha Tiger Reserve, Kanha National Park is one of Asia’s best-kept national parks and is the habitat of India’s renowned Royal Bengal Tigers. The deer and antelopes they hunt wander the beautiful forests and meadows, accompanied by Indian Elephants, sloth bears, and various birds.

This park is home to 500 of the 6,000 tigers that are thought to exist worldwide, making it one of the best places to find tigers in India in its 30,000 km2 area, which features some of India’s finest tiger habitat.

6. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

See amazing wildlife at a close distance by jeep, canoe or on foot in the unspoiled unique ecosystem of the calm Satpura National Park. Many types of mammals including bears, antelopes, leopards and wild boar meander through the beautiful hilly terrain.

With just 50 tigers in the park, they might be slightly more elusive to spot, but Satpura is still among the loveliest locations if you wish to observe other types of wildlife, including enormous squirrels!

7. Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh

In 2009, Panna National Park was nearly devoid of any tigers due to poachers, but thanks to a repopulation programme, tigers roam around once more. In 2021, the number increased to 64 thanks to 12 tigresses actively breeding. These tigresses gave birth to 16 cubs in the same year.

Alongside tigers, you’ll also find a multitude of creatures within the park, including leopards, chital, nilgai and sloth bears.

East India –

8. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Surrounded by the Karbi Anglong mountains and the Brahmaputra River, the stunning Kaziranga National Park is one of the best places to find tigers in India.

Kaziranga National Park was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006 and now has the highest density of tigers in the world (1 per 5 km2), with a population of 118, according to the latest census.

The park also hosts two-thirds of the world’s endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceroses population, and you can also spot elephants, wild water buffalo and swamp deer, along with beautiful migrating and inhabitant birds.

9. Sundarban National Park

A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sundarbans National Park is the world’s largest mangrove forest, literally translating to ‘beautiful jungle’.

One of the largest Tiger Reserves in the world, the Sundarbans offers visitors the chance to see the Royal Bengal Tiger, one of India’s most recognisable wildlife species. There are around 96 living in the park.

A large variety of biodiversity, including over 260 bird species and other creatures, including rare species like the Indian python and estuarine crocodile, call the Sundarbans home. The park is also the location of the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project, the only crocodile project in West Bengal.

10. Bandipur National Park

One of the best places to find tigers in India if you’re visiting the south is Bandipur National Park. Spread over a whopping 874 km, the park is committed to protecting endangered species of animals.

Established as a Tiger Reserve in 1974 under Project Tiger, the park is home to majestic Bengal tigers, as well as Indian elephants, wild boar, sambar deer, Indian leopards, over 200 species of birds, many reptiles and numerous rare butterflies.

11. Periyar National Park

Situated in the middle of the beautiful Cardamom Hills lies Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, home to rare and endangered flora and fauna. The best way to explore the park is by covered boat, to try and spot mammals including Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, white tigers, Indian giant squirrels, numerous reptiles, amphibians and around 266 species of bird.

The tiger population in the area is estimated to be about 40. Although it is difficult to see the tigers, visitors often spot scratch marks around the reserve.

12. Nagarhole, Karnataka

Once the Maharaja’s reserved forest, Nagarhole covers the gentle hills bordering Kerala and houses swampland, deciduous forest, and valuable teak and rosewood trees. Nagarahole Tiger Reserve continues to be the most densely populated tiger reserve in Karnataka, with more than 125 adult tigers roaming in 644 sq km of protected area, which is 11.82 tigers per 100 sq km range, making this reserve one of the best places to find tigers in India if you’re visiting the south.

In addition to tigers, the park also has elephants, leopards, gaur (Indian Bison), dhole (Indian Wild Dogs), monkeys sambar deer, along with a diverse selection of bird species.

Scammers intent on stealing money from unhappy travelers are running wild on social media. Globe Aware volunteers should watch out for these imposter accounts.


Travellers targeted as scammers run wild on social media

Exclusive: When an easyJet passenger complained on X, no fewer than 10 imposter accounts contacted him

Simon Calder
Travel Correspondent
Independent

Scammers intent on stealing money from unhappy travellers are running wild on social media. One easyJet passenger who complained on X (formerly Twitter) about a baggage issue was contacted by 10 scam accounts. Even 24 hours after they were reported to X, five were still running.

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As The Independent first revealed in 2022, scammers based in East Africa are seeking to cash in on travellers’ complaints to airlines and holiday companies.

The criminals set up “imposter” accounts and respond to the complainant. They then ask for a phone number and contact the traveller by WhatsApp, and claim the travel firm’s customer service department has been outsourced to Kenya or Tanzania. They proceed with an elaborate fraud in which the customer is tricked into sending money on a remittance app.

Passengers on easyJet have been repeatedly targeted – starting in the summer of 2023, when the airline was cancelling thousands of flights.

The scam has become so rife that when Richard Knight complained on X about being charged for taking a bag on board a flight from London Gatwick to Palma de Mallorca, no fewer than 10 scam sites replied to him.

One, which has the handle @easyJet4ti, wrote: “Hi I’m sorry for the inconvenience and I’m here to help, please follow back and DM us for assistance.”

This scam account is still one of five functioning despite all 10 having been reported to X by The Independent.

Mr Knight, 47, copied in the British Airways X site on his complaint, and received several replies claiming to be from BA. One scam account, @BritishAir_Kl, gave exactly the same response as an easyJet fake, @easyJet_easy_. It read: “Hi, we apologize for the inconvenience. Please note that we have already escalated this matter to the relevant department, kindly follow back and DM your reachable number for quick assistance. Thank you. - Nicole.”

Another BA imposter claimed to be “Seen Dolye CEO British Airways”. The airline’s chief executive is Sean Doyle.

The easyJet passenger, Richard Knight, did not engage with the scam sites but made a second attempt to contact the airline’s official social media staff.

He wrote: “£48 for a bag that was just the wheels too big for the slot. Bunch of crooks F*** you, you greedy b******s hope you choke on the money.”

The easyJet X team replied: “Hi Richard . I am happy to help in any way I can, but further offence will result in the termination of the interaction as offensive language is not tolerated.- Thanks, Jay.”

A spokesperson for easyJet said: “We continue to report fake accounts to X so they can take any necessary action.

“We advise customers to only follow and engage with our sole official channel @easyJet, which is identifiable by the gold verification badge for official businesses, for the latest updates or to seek support and to be vigilant and to not engage with or click on any links from other accounts.”

Attempts by The Independent to contact X have been met by the repeated response: “Busy now, please check back later.”

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