20 Aug Travel Talk Tuesday: Best Travel Rewards Programs, Defining a “Travel Influencer” & More
In this week’s segment of Travel Talk Tuesday, we’re taking a look at the best travel programs of the year, defining what exactly a “travel influencer” is and more. Read all of the top travel news stories below!
U.S. News Reveals 2019-2020 Best Travel Rewards Programs
For the third year in a row, Marriott Bonvoy is the Best Hotel Rewards Program. “U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels, Best Cruise Lines and Best Vacations, today announced the 2019-20 Best Travel Rewards Programs. The annual rankings identify 24 hotel and airline loyalty programs with the most rewarding perks for everyday travelers. For the third consecutive year, Marriott Bonvoy is the No. 1 Best Hotel Rewards Program. The Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan remains the No. 1 Best Airline Rewards Program for the fifth year in a row.” Read more here.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/info/blogs/press-room/articles/2019-08-06/us-news-reveals-2019-20-best-travel-rewards-programs
What Exactly is a “Traveling Influencer”?
How do we define a “traveling influencer” and how are they changing the way we think about the world. Globe-trotting Instagram influencers are seemingly living the life of luxury. “These intrepid wayfarers started out posting gorgeous images from popular or remote destinations to the Internet, particularly Instagram, attracting legions of fans who wanted to follow in their jet streams. Tourism-related brands quickly recognized the advertising potential of such images and began offering top Instagrammers payment or comped visits in return for social media promotion, allowing some “content creators” to leverage their talent and followers into full-time gigs.” Read more here.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2019/lifestyle/travel/instagram-travel-influencers/
Want to Take a Career Break for Traveling? Here’s How to Pull it Off
“A few years ago, a friend of mine quit his job, sold his house, and spent the following 12 months traveling the globe. At the time, his decision seemed impulsive (he’d been having a tough run at work), but in reality, he didn’t just pack his bags on a whim. Rather, he planned for his career break and took steps to ensure that he’d be able to pull it off financially.” Read the full article here for tips on how to ditch your laptop, pack your bags, and gear up for new experiences.
Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/want-career-break-travel-pull-210000595.html
Checking a Bag vs. Carry On is the Great Debate of Airlines These Days
In the case for carry-on luggage only, “t allows them to speed through the airport like nimble athletes, no movement wasted. The carry-on life makes it easier to travel for a litany of reasons. For starters, there’s the freedom of minimalist packing that comes with carry-on territory. Having fewer belongings with you means less wardrobe decision-making. In addition, you’ll have fewer items to potentially forget. Plus, you’ll have less weight to lug around during the entirety of your trip.”
However, “as more travelers want to avoid paying for checked bags, there’s less space available in overhead compartments on flights. So despite all of your best efforts, you may end up having to check your bag at the gate. You won’t save the same amount of time on the back end of your trip if you have to wait at baggage claim with the rest of the checked bags anyway.” Read more to decide which side you’re on here.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/tips/checking-bag-versus-carrying-is-great-debate-airline-travel/
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