Author: simon611

In a surprising move, American Airlines has decided to pause all flights from New York to Cancun for two months this fall. This temporary suspension will last from September to November, potentially disrupting plans for those looking to escape to the Caribbean during this period. However, travelers planning trips later in the winter, during Cancun’s peak season, will not be affected.
American Airlines has cited the need to adjust its capacity as the reason for this decision, with the airline’s overall growth rate expected to be 5% lower in the second half of the year. This news has come as a shock to loyal customers who frequently fly from JFK to Cancun. Additionally, Cancun’s recent moderate performance has also contributed to this decision.
Cancun remains the top beach destination for Americans traveling abroad, known for its luxurious beachfront properties, tourist-friendly environment, and high level of hospitality. Despite its popularity, Cancun has seen a slight decrease in traffic this fall, with Mexico experiencing a 1.6% drop in international visitors during the shoulder season. One of the main issues affecting Cancun is the presence of sargassum, a foul-smelling algae that has invaded many beaches, potentially contributing to the decline in demand.
Despite these challenges, Cancun is still on track for a record-breaking year, capturing nearly half of all foreign arrivals to Mexico. American Airlines plans to resume its flights on November 4, just in time for the high season starting in December.
For those affected by the suspension, American Airlines has assured that they are working to re-accommodate customers on affected flights and apologized for any inconvenience. In the meantime, travelers can still fly to Cancun from New York with Delta and Jet Blue, both of which will continue their regular operations. Delta offers 1-2 daily flights, while Jet Blue has at least three flights a day, with fares starting as low as $99 one-way.
American Airlines customers who prefer to stick with their airline can take connecting flights to Cancun through several hubs, including Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, Philadelphia, and Phoenix.

April and May are the months when bluebells bloom in England, but this year, April also brought a lot of rain. For several weekends, I watched the bluebells in our front garden, eager to explore the bluebell woods around Bristol but deterred by the heavy rain.

Finally, a sunny day arrived, and we set off for a bluebell walk at Prior’s Wood near Portbury. To get there, we crossed the Clifton Suspension Bridge and turned left just before junction 19 of the M5. We parked in a lay-by just beyond the village of Portbury and walked back to the gated lane with the old lodge. This wood was once part of the Tyntesfield Estate near Wraxall, and its timber was used in the estate sawmills. Now, the Tyntesfield Estate is owned by the National Trust.

Following the guide’s suggestion, we headed straight up the hill instead of turning right by the lodge like most people. We passed a house and went through another gate on the track. Immediately after the gate, we turned left, following the Prior’s Wood signs, and descended some steps to a flat track that skirted the side of the hill. On our left was a stream, and on the hillside, there were plenty of bluebells among the clearings of oaks and sweet chestnut trees.

On this side of the hill, the background hum of motorway traffic was more muffled. Somewhere high up in the trees, a bird was singing its heart out. I experimented with different camera settings, trying to capture the perfect bluebell shot. Eventually, Guy asked if I had enough bluebell photos, and we continued our walk.

We skirted the edge of the hill on a muddy, churned-up track—thank goodness for wellington boots! Eventually, we reached the end of the high ground, where we saw another gate into the wood and fields beyond. In the distance, we could see the Children’s Hospice South West, which had originally owned the wood and sold it to the Avon Wildlife Trust.

Here, there was an information sign and a map of the woods, and we turned down the hill. The countryside was more open here but still had clouds of bluebells on either side. Who says bluebells only grow in the shade? At the end of the path was a stream with a slatted wooden bridge to cross. On the other side, a path skirted the hill with thick woodland. There were more bluebells on either side, although not as many, as the tree canopy was heavier here. After a while, the paths opened up, revealing a meadow with some onion-scented wild garlic.

We then joined an open path with a view towards the motorway and walked back towards the lodge and the start of our walk. We passed a solo woman who anxiously asked if we’d seen any bluebells. We assured her there were plenty just up the path, but she might have been better off starting her walk in the other direction as we had. Behind her were two families, the mums chatting while the children engaged in mock fights with sticks they’d picked up along the way.

If you visit next weekend, you’ll probably still see some bluebells, but a week later, they might be gone. The walk is lovely regardless, and you can always come back next year from mid-April to mid-May. When the bluebells are in full bloom in your garden, they’ll be a couple of weeks behind in the woods. The walk took us about an hour and a half, and if you’d like to try another bluebell walk in Bristol, there’s always the Bluebell Wood near Abbot’s Leigh.

To get there from Clifton village, drive over the Clifton Suspension Bridge. At the next traffic lights opposite the entrance to Ashton Court, turn right. Drive straight ahead along the A369 Abbots Leigh Road for about 10 minutes. Just before the roundabout at junction 19 of the M5 motorway, turn left following the signs to Portbury. When you reach the center of Portbury village, take the right fork of the road signposted to Portishead/Clevedon. Where the road makes a right turn, go straight ahead along Caswell Lane and park in the lay-by or in the car park of the rugby club a little further on. Walk back to the gated lane with the lodge house on the right side where there is an information sign to start the walk.

If you’d like to try a few more walks around Bristol, I recommend checking out “Beyond Bristol: 24 Country Walks,” the Bluebell Wood at Abbots Leigh in Bristol, Snowdrops at Lytham Hall in Lancashire, and the wild garlic in the woods near Bristol.

Sure, I will rephrase the article to enhance its logical flow and readability using everyday, conversational language, while ensuring it is free from grammar errors and excluding non-essential information.

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Grand Cayman is a beautiful destination with its sparkling turquoise waters, white sand beaches, luxurious hotels, and diverse food scene. It offers a sophisticated holiday experience in the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands, once reliant on turtle farming and named Las Tortugas by Christopher Columbus in 1503, have evolved significantly. Turtles remain a symbol of these islands, although the vibe here feels more American, influenced by its proximity to Miami.

Most travelers spend their time on Grand Cayman, the largest of the three islands, while the smaller sister islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman provide a quieter retreat. During my week on Grand Cayman, I enjoyed boat trips, watersports, and fantastic seafood, immersing myself in the local culture.

Starting in George Town, the capital, the Cayman Islands National Museum is a must-visit for insights into local history and culture. Housed in one of the few remaining 19th-century buildings, the museum has served various roles over the years, embedding itself in Cayman history. It offers a comprehensive look at the islands’ natural history, traditional crafts, and turtle fishing heritage.

After the museum, I visited Gelato & Co for some fresh, homemade gelato. The waterfront area of George Town is small, primarily catering to cruise visitors with malls, souvenir shops, and jewelry stores. However, for better shopping, head to Camana Bay, a short taxi ride away. The Fish Market, near the museum, offers a glimpse into local life, where you can buy fresh fish and have it cooked next door at Cayman Cabana.

Seven Mile Beach is a major attraction, with its stunning white sand stretching nearly seven miles. It’s lined with hotels and resorts like the luxurious Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa. While the beach is public, amenities like sun loungers are often only available to hotel guests, but you can find shade under the Grape Trees or rent beach equipment from places like Adventura Cayman.

Stingray City is one of the most popular excursions, offering the chance to snorkel and swim with stingrays on a sandbar. The area is regulated, and many licensed boat trip providers offer tours. For a more relaxed beach experience, Rum Point is ideal, especially for families, with its shallow waters and amenities. Nearby Starfish Point offers a natural, unspoiled beach where you can see starfish in their natural habitat.

Camana Bay is a vibrant development with shops, restaurants, and a pedestrian-friendly layout. The observation tower provides great views, and the Local Harvest market offers fresh produce. The area has a European feel, with its small squares and water features.

In West Bay, the Cayman Turtle Centre is a popular family attraction, offering turtle encounters and various activities. Although it farms turtles for meat, it also plays a role in conservation. For local cuisine, try fish fry at places like Heritage Kitchen or Captain Herman’s Fish Fry.

For fine dining, the Cayman Islands Yacht Club offers upscale options like Morgan’s Grand Cayman and Bàcaro, both focusing on fresh seafood. The Westin Resort Grand Cayman and Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa provide luxurious accommodations with excellent amenities and dining options.

Exploring beyond George Town, visit Smith Cove for a local beach experience and Pedro St James for a historical tour. The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Garden showcases native flora and the endangered blue iguanas. The Crystal Caves offer fascinating tours of natural caverns.

Driving along the south coast, you can see the blowholes, a natural spectacle where waves spout through holes in the rock. For dining, Tukka offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Australian cuisine.

Grand Cayman also hosts festivals like KAABOO Cayman, Cayman Cookout Festival, Batabano Carnival, and Pirate Week Festival, each offering a unique cultural experience.

For souvenirs, look for Tortuga Caribbean rum cake, spicy sauces, and jewelry made from invasive lionfish fins and green iguana skins. The wild chickens you’ll see all over the island add a quirky touch to your visit.

Overall, Grand Cayman offers a mix of luxury, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect holiday destination.

During my recent three-day hike in the Chamonix valley along the Tour de Mont Blanc trail, I kept a video diary to capture my experiences. This video is a bit longer than usual, but I hope you’ll find it engaging enough to watch until the end.

On the first day, we had a tough uphill walk from Les Houches to Refuge de Bellachat. The accommodation was basic, but the view of Mont Blanc was breathtaking. Before dinner, I climbed up behind the refuge to see Lac Brévent, which looked stunning in the evening sun.

On the second day, we mistakenly climbed to the peak at Brévent twice due to a misreading of our guidebook. After that, we opted for an easier route down the stony piste trail to Plan Praz, avoiding the more challenging path with metal steps and handrails. We took a break at the sunny café terrace at the cable car station, watching paragliders take off, before continuing our walk to Flégère. Refuge la Flégère felt luxurious compared to Refuge de Bellachat, especially with its indoor bathroom and hot showers.

On the third day, we stayed at high altitude to reach Lac Blanc, where we enjoyed the view of a beautiful milky green glacial lake. Later, we descended to Chamonix and took a bus back to our hotel in Les Houches. After three exhilarating days on the trail, a long hot bath and a comfy bed at Hotel Slalom were much appreciated.

Although we didn’t complete the full 12-day Tour de Mont Blanc, we felt that our three-day hike was perfect for us. We look forward to returning to continue our journey on the TMB circuit.

In the Chamonix valley, we stayed at the modern and stylish Hotel Slalom in Les Houches, which is ideally located for summer walking. Double rooms in the summer season range from €86-99, with breakfast available for an additional €10.

We used the Cicerone Tour of Mont Blanc guide by Kev Reynolds, which we found to be an excellent resource for both the clockwise and anti-clockwise routes, providing detailed route guides, maps, accommodation information, and points of interest.

Bookings for Refuge de Bellachat can be made by telephone at 04 50 53 43 23, costing €40 for dinner, bed, and breakfast. Refuge la Flégère costs €47 per person for dinner, bed, and breakfast, and bookings can be made by email at [email protected] or by telephone at 04 50 55 85 88. It’s advisable to book your place in all refuges a day or two in advance to avoid disappointment.

We booked our transfer from Geneva airport to Les Houches through Chamexpress, which provided an efficient service for €25 plus tax per person each way.

For more information and resources to help plan your Tour de Mont Blanc walk, including a packing list and links to other online diaries, visit the walkingthetmb website.

The Mediterranean, often called ‘The Med,’ is a top summer destination for Americans. They flock to sunny spots like Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece, all bordering the turquoise waters. However, this vast sea touches three continents, and some stunning coastal areas are not in Europe. These places often go unnoticed by U.S. tourists, who prefer spending their money in pricey locations like Amalfi.
One such hidden gem is Antalya, known as the Queen of the East Mediterranean. Located in Türkiye, where Europe ends and Western Asia begins, Antalya offers both sun and culture at much more affordable prices.
Antalya is a coastal city in Türkiye, formerly known as Turkey. It has long been a favorite for middle-income and low-income travelers from nearby countries like Germany, Ukraine, and Russia. However, Americans have largely ignored it. As a result, prices in Antalya are much lower than in other popular Mediterranean spots like the French Riviera or the Greek islands. A one-week trip to Antalya costs around $1,028, with average nightly resort rates at $110 and daily meal costs at $25. While there are more expensive options, budget travelers can find rooms in local guesthouses for as little as ten dollars a night.
Antalya caters to a diverse audience, from affluent travelers seeking luxury to young backpackers looking for affordable accommodations. Beyond its affordability, Antalya is a cultural treasure. The city has a rich history, dating back over 2,000 years. It was first settled by Greeks and later became part of various empires, including the Romans and Ottomans, before becoming part of modern Türkiye. This multicultural history is evident in the city’s architecture and landmarks.
Kaleiçi, the walled part of Antalya, is a must-visit. Enter through Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman monument from 158 AD, and explore the winding streets of the Old Town. Here, you’ll find historical landmarks like the Hidirlik Tower, the Yivli Minaret Mosque, and the Old Marina.
Beyond the ancient ruins, Antalya is a vibrant coastal city with modern amenities. Konyaalti, a lively district with affordable hotel rooms and an 8-mile-long beach, offers a surprising nightlife scene. Lara Beach, a short drive from downtown, is home to many of Antalya’s luxurious all-inclusive resorts, with prices starting at $182 per night.
Antalya is expected to host 17 million tourists this year, making it Türkiye’s top beach destination, though Istanbul remains the most visited city. One reason Americans might overlook Antalya is the lack of direct flights from the U.S. Turkish Airlines doesn’t plan to launch U.S.-Antalya flights soon, but Americans can still reach Antalya via Istanbul or book low-cost flights from Europe or within Türkiye. The good news is that Americans no longer need visas to visit Türkiye; a valid passport allows for stays up to three months.

I recently went to an event in Lancashire and had a wonderful time strolling through the wooded grounds at Lytham Hall, admiring the beautiful snowdrops. One of the joys of spring in England is witnessing the seasonal flowers that signal the transition from winter to spring, with snowdrops being the first to appear.

These tiny, white flowers are quite particular about their environment, thriving best in woodland areas. They won’t flourish just anywhere and are most successfully planted in your garden when they are ‘in the green,’ meaning with the moist soil still clinging to their roots.

Lytham Hall itself was constructed for the Clifton family back in the 1760s. The main house boasts some exquisite portraits and interiors, though it is only open to the public on specific Sundays, holidays, or by prior arrangement for groups.

The grounds of Lytham Hall are also accessible to the public on selected days, and there are several events, including guided walks through the grounds. If you plan to visit, it’s a good idea to check the website for event details.

For those looking to explore the charming coastal town of Lytham, I’ve heard that The Rooms Boutique B & B is a recommended place to stay, though I haven’t personally visited it.

Getting a passport or renewing your current one has become much simpler. The U.S. State Department recently revealed plans to open new passport offices in six cities nationwide, adding to the existing 29 offices.

The new offices will be strategically located across the U.S. to help millions of Americans easily get or renew their passports. Currently, about 48% of Americans have passports, a significant increase from just 5% in 1990.

While you can renew your passport by mail or sometimes online, the only way to get a new passport is to apply in person at a passport office or acceptance facility. Visiting a passport office is also the most straightforward way to renew an expiring passport. These new offices will be a great help to many travelers.

Here are the cities where the new passport offices will soon open:
– Salt Lake City, Utah
– Kansas City, Missouri
– Orlando, Florida
– Charlotte, North Carolina
– San Antonio, Texas
– Cincinnati, Ohio

The exact opening dates for these offices haven’t been announced yet, but all locations have been confirmed. This is welcome news for millions of Americans who previously had to travel long distances to reach a passport office. For instance, people in north or central Florida had to drive to Miami, which could take over six hours. Similarly, residents of Charlotte, North Carolina, had to go to Atlanta, more than four hours away.

These new offices in densely populated cities will make it much easier to find a passport office nearby.

Regarding mail applications, you can renew an expired passport by mail, but you can’t apply for a new one this way. However, I don’t recommend renewing by mail due to the long processing times, which can take 6 to 8 weeks, plus additional mailing time.

As for online applications, the State Department introduced an online passport renewal system at the beginning of 2023. However, this is only for renewals, not for first-time applications. The online system has had many glitches and takes as long as mail renewals.

Therefore, I suggest applying for or renewing your passport in person at a passport office. You can schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778.

As summer progresses, the excitement of high temperatures often turns into exhaustion. If you’re feeling this way, consider swapping your usual tropical vacation for a refreshing European city break. While bustling cities like London and Paris might seem overwhelming, there’s a trendy city where you can enjoy beautiful sights without the intense heat or crowds: Manchester.
According to Statista’s latest ranking of the United Kingdom’s most visited destinations, Manchester is the third most popular city, following London and Edinburgh. With over 1.7 million visitors last year, Manchester offers the rich culture and history of London but without the crowds.
Here’s why Manchester should be at the top of your travel list this season:
**History, Culture, and Sports: Manchester Has It All!**
Known as the “Capital of the North,” Manchester is a cultural hub with plenty to see and do. Key attractions include:
– Manchester Cathedral
– Chetham’s Library (the oldest public library in the English-speaking world)
– The Museum of Science and Industry
– Manchester Art Gallery
– Whitworth Art Gallery
– Band on the Wall
– Manchester Arena (for concerts)
– Hallé Orchestra
Sports fans can enjoy live matches at Manchester United’s Old Trafford or Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.
**London’s Cheaper, Quieter Counterpart**
While London is iconic, its high prices and tourist crowds can be overwhelming. Manchester offers a more affordable and quieter alternative. Prices for food, accommodation, and public transport are generally about 20% lower. For example:
– A cheap meal for one: $19 in Manchester vs. $25 in London
– Coffee: $2 in Manchester vs. $4.5 in London
– One-way public transport ticket: $2.5 in Manchester vs. $3.5 in London
– Pint of beer: $6 in Manchester vs. $8 in London
– Night at a 3-star hotel: $70 in Manchester vs. $100 in London
Manchester’s city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore without the constant jostling of crowds.
**Just As Welcoming As The UK Capital**
Despite being quieter, Manchester is just as welcoming as London. The locals are warm and down-to-earth, and there are plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets. The food scene is also fantastic, with highlights like the Curry Mile, the Northern Quarter, and markets such as Mackie Mayor and Altrincham.
**A Summer to Remember**
This summer, Manchester is hosting several exciting events, including the Stephen Hawking exhibit, the Moovin Festival, Sparkle Weekend 2024, and Haigh Bubblefest. Check the event calendar to see what interests you.
In summary, Manchester offers a perfect blend of history, culture, sports, affordability, and hospitality, making it an ideal destination for a European city break this summer.

It’s easy to get tempted by the idea of a warm, beachy vacation this summer, especially with social media filled with stunning pictures from beautiful destinations. However, a beach vacation isn’t for everyone. Personally, I’m craving a European city break. If you’re also looking for a place with mild weather and fewer crowds than France or Spain, I’ve got the perfect spot for you: Scotland.
Scotland recently set a new tourism record, welcoming 3.9 million tourists last year, a 15% increase from pre-pandemic numbers. Many of these visitors are from the U.S. If you’re curious about what makes Scotland so special, this summer might be the ideal time to explore its fairytale-like landscapes.
Why settle for heat waves and crowded beaches when you can enjoy breathtaking sights at a comfortable 20°C (68°F)? Scotland may not be your typical summer destination, but the change can be refreshing, with plenty of nature, history, and culture to explore. To help you plan your first trip, here are some of the most popular landmarks:
– **Edinburgh**: Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
– **Glasgow**: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Riverside Museum, the Glasgow Science Centre, People’s Palace, and Winter Gardens.
– **The Highlands**: The Isle of Skye, Cairngorms National Park, Urquhart Castle, Dunrobin Castle & Gardens, and Steall Waterfall.
– **Loch Ness**: The Loch Ness Lake, Urquhart Castle, and the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition.
– **Stirling**: The Wallace Monument, the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, and Stirling Castle.
– **The Isle of Mull**: Tobermory, Fingal’s Cave, and the Treshnish Isles.
– **The Outer Hebrides**: Lewis and Harris, the ancient Callanish Standing Stones, Luskentyre, and Seilebost.
If you’ve already visited Scotland, you might wonder why you should make the trip again. The answer is simple: there’s always something new to discover. New hotels and restaurants are constantly popping up, adding excitement to your visit. Recent additions like the Delnashaugh, AC Hotel by Marriott Glasgow, and Eleven Stafford Street Townhouse are among Scotland’s hottest stays. New dining spots like The Spanish Butcher, Fallachan Kitchen, LOCHRIN Rooftop Bar, and Ondine St Andrews have quickly become some of the best places to eat.
This summer, Scotland is buzzing with events. From the Highland Games and the Edinburgh International Festival to the Genesis Scottish Open, the Royal Highland Show, and the Stonehaven Folk Festival, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
For solo travelers, Scotland is a dream destination. Edinburgh, in particular, is perfect for those traveling alone. It’s safe, offers numerous accommodation options, has a welcoming community, and boasts an excellent public transportation system, ensuring you never feel lost.

Cancun is the top destination for Americans traveling abroad, no matter the season. Known for its all-inclusive resorts, endless stretches of soft white sand, and turquoise seas, it’s the perfect tropical getaway. However, even the most relaxing resort stay can have its hiccups, especially when dealing with the chaotic Cancun International Airport.
As the busiest airport in the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun International has faced criticism despite recent improvements in customer service. If you’re flying into Cancun soon, here are three important things to keep in mind:
**Luggage Retrieval Delays**
Cancun International is extremely busy, handling hundreds of thousands of passengers each month. It’s Mexico’s second-busiest airport, right after Mexico City’s Benito Juárez. Many passengers have reported waiting between one to four hours to retrieve their luggage, causing significant delays. This can be particularly frustrating if you have a private transfer waiting to take you to your hotel. To avoid this, consider traveling light with just a carry-on. If that’s not possible, be prepared for a potentially long wait.
**Border Delays**
Border procedures can also be a hassle. While U.S. passport holders are generally welcomed without issues, they are not immune to the long lines and bottlenecks, especially during peak hours when multiple flights arrive simultaneously. On the positive side, the introduction of eGates has improved the situation. Eligible travelers, including Americans and Canadians, can use automated border posts for quicker entry. By scanning your biometric passport, the process takes less than a minute, ensuring a smoother flow.
**Taxi Scams**
One of the most persistent issues at Cancun Airport is dealing with aggressive taxi drivers in the arrival hall. They may shout, block your way, or even harass you to get you to use their service. If you’ve booked a transfer in advance, ignore them. Only use taxis with a badge permit displayed on the windshield, a WiFi sign, and a phone number you can verify with a dispatcher. Otherwise, you risk being overcharged. Whenever possible, book your transport before landing to agree on a fixed rate and pre-pay, or check with your hotel for transfer options.
Cancun Airport is well-equipped, and the establishment of a complaint office shows they are addressing ongoing issues. However, being prepared for these potential inconveniences can help ensure a smoother start to your vacation.