Author: Laura Schad

Adelman Travel Accelerates Savings as a Top-tier Elite SAP Concur Partner

Adelman Includes Concur Site Audits as Part of Elite TMC Designation

Adelman Travel, one of the first travel management companies to earn SAP Concur’s Elite TMC Partner designation, has added recurring online booking tool site audits to the company’s arsenal of travel program solutions. 

“When a corporate client initially implements the SAP Concur online booking tool, there are many configuration options to choose from, and they may not thoroughly consider all of them during the implementation process,” said Ivan Imana, Adelman Travel’s CIO. “For example, they may pick a lowest logical fare setting that made sense at the time, but reviewing it later, they find it wasn’t the right fit.  An audit helps companies can gain better visibility into what’s working and what isn’t.”

One of the requirements for Elite TMC status is certification on Concur Travel in order to provide expert implementation and support of the online booking tool.  Adelman has two internal teams to offer full support—a frontline team to assist users and a back-of-house team that provides full implementation, site administration and trouble-shooting expertise. This second team conducts the site audits.

“Our support team searches for parameters and configuration settings that may not look right and makes recommendations on what could work better,” said Imana. “Companies can then see the potential holes in policy or additional opportunities for savings and compliance.”

Adelman Travel, a longtime partner of SAP Concur, has been recognized for superior delivery of solutions.  They are a past recipient of the SAP Concur Innovation Award for leveraging their API integration to import TripLink data into their reporting platform to provide their clients with a complete picture of their travel spend. 

“Our clients are looking to overcome challenges in managing their travel spend, and as an Elite TMC Partner we have embraced all of SAP Concur’s solutions to fully optimize our clients’ travel programs,” said Imana.

Adelman offers these site audits in conjunction with their one-day myGarage experience, which takes a deep dive into a corporate client’s entire travel program. 

Disruptive airline passengers are now more likely to be prosecuted

Starting Jan. 1, 2020, a new inter-governmental agreement will make it easier for unruly airline passengers to be prosecuted around the world. Under current laws, jurisdiction over disruptive behavior on international flights is held by the country where the aircraft is registered, regardless of where the incident occurred. This meant that less than half of all cases were actually ever prosecuted. Under the newly agreed upon protocol, jurisdiction will be shifted to the country where the aircraft lands after an incident takes place, which law makers say will boost the number of prosecutions. With the number of behavior related incidents on the rise, industry officials wanted to improve prosecution rates in order to help deter disruptive conduct so that air travelers can enjoy a safer travel environment.

Protests in France continue to impact transportation and more

Ongoing industrial action and protests continue to affect travel across France. Since Dec. 5, workers across the country have periodically walked off the job and staged demonstrations to protest the government’s pension reforms. Union officials have signaled that there will be no “Christmas truce” as long as the government remains firm on its plans.

Over the past two weeks, train service and metro lines have been significantly impacted almost daily. Air travel has been disrupted on select days and tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower have experienced periodic closures. Most of the disruptions have been targeted in Paris, but other cities across France have been affected as well.

Travelers should continue to monitor this ongoing situation, especially as health workers have threatened to enter the fray with their own demonstrations scheduled for December 20. Additional disruptions to rail service are expected, and periodic air travel interruptions are likely to continue as well. Travelers should also avoid demonstrations, as some have become violent. For more information, please contact your Adelman travel consultant. 

UK election results provide some clarity to Brexit; what it means for travel

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Conservative Party won a significant number of new parliamentary seats in the snap election, which took place last week in the United Kingdom. The shift in parliament means that Johnson should now have no problem getting his Brexit bill approved, which will allow the UK to leave the European Union (EU) by January 31, 2020.

Under the agreement reached with the EU negotiators back in October, the UK will officially no longer be part of the EU on the deadline date if the Brexit plan is passed is by Parliament. However, the UK will remain in a Brexit transition at least through the end of 2020 in regards to policies and protocols. Thus, travel will remain largely unaffected after January 31 while lawmakers continue to iron out the details of transition.

AA offers new passport scanning technology via its app

In an industry first, American has become the first airline to use near field communication (NFC) technology to securely transmit passport data. NFC is the technology used with cashless payment systems such as Apple Pay.

Customers who check into an international flight with the American Airlines app will be asked to enter some basic passport information and then use their smartphone or other Android or iOS mobile device to scan the chip on the back page of the passport.  Travelers will still need to show their passport at the airport during boarding but it won’t have to be opened and scanned, which will speed up the boarding process. This service is currently only available for trips with one passenger on the reservation but will be expanded in the future to include bookings with more than one person.

Delta to begin codeshare with Latam; sells stake in Gol

Delta said it will launch new codeshare offerings with South American partner Latam during the first quarter of 2020. Delta plans to extend its reach in South America with 51 new routes via Bogota, Cartagena, Lima, and Quito. Meanwhile, Delta confirmed that it has sold all of its 32.9 million shares it held with Brazilian carrier Gol. Delta had signaled that it would end its partnership with Gol after taking a 20 percent stake in Latam earlier this fall.

Lyft adds rental cars while SuperShuttle shuts down

Ground transportation offerings are evolving again. Ride sharing service Lyft announced that it is testing the waters with car rentals at select locations in California.  In a statement, the company said, “With Lyft Rentals, we’re giving riders the flexibility to rent a car for weekend getaways, business trips or even to run errands. Best of all? You can set everything up in the Lyft app.” 

Customers will need to have the latest version of the app. Rates will vary based on demand but Lyft will cover the cost of the ride to and from the rental lot. A concierge will greet the user to help them get on their way. Lyft promises “no lines, hidden fees or last-minute vehicle model changes.”

Meanwhile, SuperShuttle announced that it will cease services at the end of the year. In operation since 1983, SuperShuttle has been a staple for many travelers heading to the airport. However, ever increasing competition from ride-sharing services such as Lyft and Uber has negatively impacted SuperShuttle operations. The shuttle service says it will honor all reservations and walk-up requests through Dec. 31.

More delays for 737 Max

In what seems to have become a monthly headline, both American and Southwest have again pushed back its date for reintroducing the beleaguered Boeing 737 Max aircraft back into its schedules from March until April 2020. This comes after Boeing announced that it would temporarily halt production of the 737 Max, signifying that it is no longer confident that it will soon receive approvals to operate the grounded aircraft.  It is likely United will follow American and Southwest in altering its schedules again.

United passengers can now pre-order inflight meals

Catching up with service already offered by American and Delta, United is now letting passengers traveling on select routes to pre-order an inflight meal. The carrier will email passengers on eligible flights five days prior to departure with an invitation to pre-order a meal. Travelers who do not like the offerings can try ordering one of United’s special meals. Pre-order service is currently available on premium-cabin itineraries departing from Los Angeles and Washington Dulles. United expects to be rolling out additional markets next year.

Combining grand cruising and luxury beachside experiences

NCL introduces the Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) newest and grandest ship, the Norwegian Encore, is now offering sailings from the United States. Adelman’s Deana Crouch recently had the opportunity to sail aboard the new Encore and found it to be an incredible experience. “The ship is amazing!” Deana exclaims. “For people who like experiences, WOW!  It has a race track, an exhilarating waterslide, a 10,000 square foot virtual reality complex, laser tag, and so much more.” The Encore boasts top-notch Broadway entertainment, including the Tony award-winning Kinky Boots, The Choir of Man and Happy Hour Prohibition: The Musical. For foodies, the Encore offers 30 different dining venues, giving guests a wide variety of spectacular culinary options. “The food was indeed marvelous,” Deana adds.

Another feature that distinguishes the Encore from other ships is the private Haven area which is hidden away at the top of the ship. The Haven is home to the ship’s most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. Haven guests will not only enjoy all that the ship has to offer, but will also relish the personal attention of a concierge and 24-hour butler throughout the entire cruise. Privacy and tranquility are just steps away on a sundeck reserved exclusively for Haven guests. A private dining room and priority service for everything from the boarding of tenders to shore, onboard entertainment and main-ship dining times are just some of the many additional benefits of the Haven, a ship within a ship, experience.

NCL has carried its Haven concept onto its private island, the beautiful Stirrup Cay.  The Silver Cove area features a sparkling private beach area with swings over the water and a beautiful dining area.   Guests can reserve a private villa for a fully luxurious experience. “This was a fantastic experience and is especially nice for multigenerational families or others seeking a tranquil tropical onshore paradise,” Deana advises.

For more information on NCL’s new Encore and its luxurious Haven and Silver Cove experiences, please contact one of our experienced Adelman vacations advisors at 800-749-7116 or visit our website at www.adelmanvacations.com.

Mountain Shadows, Paradise Valley

Where dramatic views set the tone for a visit that is relaxing yet invigorating

Mountain Shadows set the benchmark for desert luxury and distinctive design when it first opened in 1959. Now, it’s been completely re-envisioned from the ground up. The boutique-style resort is set in the shadow of Camelback Mountain in the serene town of Paradise Valley, just a short drive from Sky Harbor Airport.

Contemporary design is infused with a dash of the 1950s modernism that the original resort was famous for. Enjoy spacious guestrooms, plush bedding, custom furnishings, floor-to-ceiling glass, and plenty of plug-in locations on the property and in the guestrooms for working on-the-go. Take advantage of top-notch amenities that are included in the resort fee like valet parking, Wi-Fi, a 24-hour cancellation policy, and full access to the gym and Citizens Club pool. The Short Course offers 18 holes of par-3 golf, with options for the novice player and the experienced golfer alike.

Desert and mountain views throughout the resort set the tone for a visit that’s relaxing yet invigorating.

Hotel Sorella CITYCENTRE Houston

The Centerpiece of CITYCENTRE

Hotel Sorella CITYCENTRE is a Houston luxury hotel with the incredible details you deserve. Elegant, rich design aesthetics and intimate décor define Hotel Sorella. Unique European Murano glass chandeliers and custom graphite-colored ceramic floors are the sophisticated touches you’ll experience in this premier luxury hotel. Located in Houston’s pedestrian friendly CITYCENTRE development near the Westchase District & Energy Corridor, Hotel Sorella offers upscale retail, casual to fine dining, and more. Plan a meeting in Hotel Sorella’s 10,000 square feet of space or relax at the rooftop pool.

Keeping the Holidays Happy: Travel Tips for the Busy Business Traveler

‘Tis the season for busy airports! Around this time of year, travel can be especially stressful. More than 115 million people in North America are expected to travel for the holidays in 2019, according to AAA. These are record-breaking numbers, the most in almost 20 years. It is our hope that with a few tips, we can help keep your spirits up and your journey easy.

Travel Only When Necessary

With a spike in air fare costs and so many additional travelers, it’s a good idea to be more selective when it comes to which business trips to take. Weather during this time of year should be a factor in your decision, as it may add to additional delays and cancellations. If the same goals can be accomplished via conference call or video chat, it may be better to skip the plane ride. Work with managers to determine whether an in-person meeting is the best method.

Avoid Peak Travel Days

If you do need to travel, the worst travel days are immediately before and following Christmas. Try to plan your trips around these travel times to avoid getting stuck at a crowded airport or on overbooked flights. According to AAA, travel should begin to slow down after the first of the year.

Plan Ahead

Sometimes, problems stem from delayed flights or gate changes. Other times, it’s the things that aren’t directly related, like travel on the way to the airport, calling an Uber during surge pricing, or a packed airport parking lot. Think through your entire trip, door to door, and give yourself plenty of time to avoid additional headaches. Try to:

• Leave for the airport early; there’s holiday traffic on highways too
• Pack light; checking bags can cost more money and more time
• Allow for extra time through security; lines may be longer
• Call and make parking reservations to ensure your spot

Keep Cozy

An extra blanket, earplugs or a warm sweater can make the difference between an uncomfortable flight and a relaxing one. It’s a great idea to take this time to treat yourself, too. Buy a new book to read or stop at a coffee shop in the airport for a hot chocolate (extra whip!). You may need to be away from home, but you don’t need to leave all the comforts behind!

Remember the Reason for the Season

Despite being the season of love and joy, tensions are often high when it comes to traveling during the holidays. People are anxious to get to their destination and spend time with friends and family, and rightly so! Gate agents do the best they can to accommodate when things go wrong, but it’s a very trying experience for all involved. As “seasoned” business travelers, we can help by keeping a cool head, patient attitude and an empathetic heart when disruptions arise. Let’s do our best to not only make our own travel better, but the travel of others as well.

Everyone at Adelman wishes you and yours a very safe and Happy Holiday Season! See you in 2020!

Does your driver’s license have a star on it?

REAL ID and tips for updating your identification at the DMV

As of October 1, 2020, Americans will be required to present REAL-ID compliant identification in order to fly on U.S. commercial aircraft and enter federal buildings. Many Americans, however, are still confused about what it takes to be compliant. 

REAL ID-compliant identification includes state-issued driver’s licenses that were issued using stricter REAL ID criteria. In most states, compliant licenses have a star on the upper right hand side. Licenses that have been recently issued but are not REAL-ID compliant typically are marked “NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES.” Licenses that have not been renewed in several years are likely not REAL ID compliant. Check for the gold star to verify compliance.   

If your state-issued license or identification does not have the gold star and you do not have another form of REAL ID-compliant identification to bring with you to the airport, such as a passport or passport card, DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), or other approved identification (for a complete list see https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification), you should start making plans to visit your local DMV to get your identification upgraded for federal use.

Tips for obtaining your REAL ID

• Make sure your state is compliant. While most are already issuing compliant IDs, a few states are still working toward compliance. To check, visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.
• Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website for a checklist of required documentation. Typically you will need either your passport or an original copy of your birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency, or name change documentation if applicable.
• See if your DMV offers appointments in addition to walk-in visits.
• Some states also show real-time wait times at individual DMV offices so you can make an informed decision on when and where to go.
• Check to see if your state allows you to complete the application online ahead of your visit to the DMV as another time saving option.
• Don’t procrastinate. Waiting until the Oct. 1, 2020 deadline approaches will likely mean longer wait times at your local DMV.

Travel disruptions across France expected to continue through the weekend

Widespread national strikes affecting transportation and other sectors across France are expected to continue through the weekend as public servants and private company employees protest their anger over pension reforms proposed by the government.  Travel by air, rail and roadways will be impacted. Flights have been cancelled as the French Civil Aviation Authority has requested airlines to reduce their flight schedules. Delays for remaining services are expected. Airlines including Air France, American, British Airways, Delta, EasyJet, Iberia, KLM, and United are all offering flexible rebooking, though specifics vary by carrier.

Dozens of trains have also been canceled. Eurostar, SNCF (France’s national rail company) and RATP (Paris’ regional transport authority) are all warning of disruptions. Rail passengers may be eligible for flexible rebooking. Transportation across roadways is expected to also be impacted as protestors may block traffic.

Other workers expected to strike, at least for select periods of time, include police, ambulance drivers and firefighters. Workers from other unions and the “Gilets Jaunes” (Yellow Vests) are expected to hold demonstrations. Lorry drivers announced they intend to block major French roads from December 7 onwards.

Travelers to France should closely monitor this ongoing situation. Please contact your Adelman travel consultant for more information.

DHS wants to include U.S. citizens in facial recognition checks

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed that its facial recognition screening program for visitors to the U.S. be expanded to include Americans entering or exiting the country. Officials say that by expanding the program foreign visitors would be deterred from attempting to use U.S. travel documents in a fraudulent manner. The DHS has lauded its facial recognition program as an effective way to identify criminals and suspected terrorists. Critics say the program is a violation of U.S. citizens’ privacy. The DHS expects to publish a formal proposed rule by next July.

American Airlines enhances its corporate recognition program

As part of its elevated focus on its corporate travelers, American unveiled a number of new benefits for passengers traveling for a company that has a corporate agreement with the airline. Some of the enhancements include complimentary advanced preferred seating, priority access for boarding, prioritized re-accommodation service and downgrade protections, along with exclusive discounts for leisure travel packages that include air on American. These benefits are not only available for large corporate customers; small-to-midsized companies with a corporate agreement can also unlock these perks. Other benefits of American’s corporate agreement include upfront discounts, fee waivers, and an assigned account manager.

Delta strives for smoother security experiences for international travelers

Delta Airlines said it is working with its partner airlines and the TSA to ensure that its Pre-Checked enrolled customers have the indicator for expedited screening printed on the boarding passes of customers exiting, entering, or connecting in the United States. First launched with AeroMexico, Korean Air, Virgin Atlantic, and WestJet, Delta has since initiated the program with Air France and KLM. The carrier expects to have the rest of its partners included soon. Airline officials said this initiative is part of Delta’s overall commitment to reducing customer stress during the entire travel experience.

LaGuardia passengers can get flat fee fares to points around the city

Under a new partnership with ride-hailing company, Via, passengers arriving at New York’s LaGuardia airport can get flat fee rates on pooled transportation to various locations around the city. A $15 fee will apply to shared rides to any destination in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. Travelers headed to the boroughs of Staten Island and the Bronx will pay $20.

The service, which is called LGA Connect, will be similar to Uber Pool in that it pairs passengers going in the same direction. LGA Connect will depart from LaGuardia’s terminals C and D. Via plans to offer a special LGA Connect option on its app.

New Lounge available at Miami International

A new 10,000-square-foot premium lounge is now open at Miami International’s Terminal J. Sponsored by LATAM and co-located with Avianca’s VIP lounge, the facility will be available for LATAM business class travelers along with Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members and Oneworld business-class travelers. First class travelers on Air France, Caribbean Air, El Al, Lufthansa, and Swiss are eligible to use the lounge along with Austrian Airlines business class customes. The lounge features bilingual staff, dining and work areas with décor inspired by the Amazon rainforest, a business center, and shower facilities.

 United brings Clear to O’Hare

Clear expedited security screening services are now available at Chicago O’Hare’s Terminal 1. Clear uses biometric-based security technology to provide expedited screenings for members at participating airports. Delta has been at the forefront in bringing this service to its customers and United is now working with Clear as well.  Earlier this year, United launched free or discounted Clear memberships as a benefit for customers enrolled in the MileagePlus frequent flyer program. Airline officials say Clear services will be expanded to Terminal 2 at O’Hare in the next few weeks.

Hawaii’s Big Island: a stunning tropical paradise and many other wonders await you

Fantastically diverse, Hawaii’s Big Island is known for its distinctive landscapes ranging from snow-capped peaks to lush rainforests and striking black sandy beaches along with intriguing volcanic panoramas. Visitors will enjoy a rich culture, quaint old fishing villages, world-class luxury resorts, and so much more. 

Volcano National Park

Adelman’s Shelly Williams and Kinsey Bailey experienced the many wonders of the Big Island on a recent educational VIP trip sponsored by Apple Vacations. Shelly and Kinsey stayed at the beautiful and recently remodeled Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, which is located on a stunning stretch of beach along the Kohala Coast.

During their stay, Shelly and Kinsey toured several other resorts. According to Shelly, “stand outs were the Mauna Kae Resort and the Fairmont Orchid, where we were hosted for dinner.” The Fairmont Orchid is especially known for its luaus.  Steeped in tradition and history, the Farimont Orchid’s luau offers a fantastic night of culture, learning, entertainment, and fun, along with a truly delicious meal.

Shelly (left) and Kinsey (right) enjoy the luau experience

Shelly and Kinsey also got to experience the many engaging sites around the Big Island, including Waipi’o Lookout, which offers breathtaking views over the historic and beautiful Waipi’o valley, the amazing Volcano National Park, home to one of the world’s most active and engaging volcanos, and the famous black sand beaches of Punalu’u Beach Park. As Kinsey notes, “My favorite part was the black sand beach. It was just too cool, plus we got to see turtles!” Punalu`u is frequented by the endangered and protected Hawksbill Turtles and Green Sea Turtles, which can often be seen basking on the black sand.

A turtle protected area along the beautiful black sands

Apart from the Luau, Shelly said there were many other interesting food experiences around the Big Island. “We visited Village Burgers, voted best burgers in the US (and it was!), Ippy’s Hawaiian Barbeque, and the Lava Lava Beach Club, where we sampled the world famous Malasadas (fried doughnuts).” Shelly remarked that the Lava Lava Beach Club was also a great place for sunsets. “Hawaii offers spectacular sunsets, which was a highlight each evening; we would make sure we were in a prime spot for best views!”

After their experience, Shelly and Kinsey highly recommend a trip to Hawaii. As Shelly notes, “The Big Island is a great option for people who are looking for a stunning destination at a slower pace than Oahu. The island is easy to navigate and offers every climate from desert to rainforest, and the entire Island can be navigated in a few hours since traffic is relatively non-existent.” Kinsey adds, “The Big Island should be on everyone’s bucket list!”

For more information on vacations to Hawaii’s Big Island or other fabulous beach destinations, contact Kinsey, Shelly, or one of our other experienced vacations consultants by calling 800-749-7116 or visiting our website at www.adelmanvacations.com.

And remember this holiday season that travel is a wonderful present for your loved ones! Adelman makes it easy for you with our holiday gift cards!