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Tag: Holiday Travel

  • Software issue grounds 340 American Airlines planes amid holiday rush

    The issue was identified after “an event” on another carrier’s aircraft and is affecting Airbus planes worldwide, officials said.

    The issue was identified after “an event” on another carrier’s aircraft and is affecting Airbus planes worldwide, officials said.

    MCT

    An issue with aircraft software has prompted Fort Worth-based American Airlines to temporarily pull 340 of its Airbus A320 aircraft from service, officials from the airline said on Friday.

    The issue was identified after “an event” on another carrier’s aircraft and is affecting Airbus planes worldwide, officials said. Based on an initial safety review, there are no indications of similar events occurring on American’s jets.

    Airbus has advised carriers to implement a software update, a process that takes around 2 hours per aircraft to complete, according to a statement.

    The airline is “intently focused” on limiting flight cancellations as passengers travel on the holiday weekend, officials said.

    “Our overriding priority will always be the safety of our operation,” the statement reads. “It’s all hands on deck across our airline to address this Airbus software issue and take care of any customers whose flights are affected.”

    Sixty-two American Airlines flights have been cancelled for Saturday Nov. 29, according to online aviation database FlightAware.

    Airbus officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday afternoon.

    Related Stories from Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Lillie Davidson

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Lillie Davidson is a breaking news reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She graduated from TCU in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, is fluent in Spanish, and can complete a crossword in five minutes.

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  • Thanksgiving travel: Here’s when AAA says Texas highways will be busiest

    There’s just no way to avoid busy roads during the holidays.

    Whether it’s traffic into an airport or traffic on Interstate 35, many Texans are heading home to spend Thanksgiving with their loved ones.

    Roadside assistance organization AAA released its Thanksgiving travel forecast this week, and an estimated 5.8 million Texans will venture out on the roads from Nov. 25 until Dec. 1 — and 90% of those travelers will be road tripping.

    Though every year is bound to be busy, this year is predicted to be the busiest it has been since Thanksgiving 2019, before the pandemic, when 5.6 million Texans traveled.

    So here’s what to expect if you’re road tripping in Texas. Have a safe holiday weekend!

    Busiest travel days during Thanksgiving weekend on the highway

    AAA predicts 5.3 million Texans will travel by car from Nov. 25 until Dec. 1. Tuesday, Nov. 25, and Wednesday, Nov. 26, are expected to be the busiest afternoons, while Sunday, Nov. 30, will also hold heavy return traffic.

    According to the nationwide forecast, these are the best and worst times to drive over the travel period:

    Wednesday, Nov. 26

    • Best: Before 11 a.m. 
    • Worst: Between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. 

    Thursday, Nov. 27

    • Minimal traffic expected.

    Friday, Nov. 28

    • Best: Before 11 a.m. 
    • Worst: Between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

    Saturday, Nov. 29

    • Best: Before 10 a.m. 
    • Worst: From 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

    Sunday, Nov. 30

    • Best: Before 11 a.m. 
    • Worst: Between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. 

    Monday, Dec. 1

    • Best: After 8 p.m.
    • Worst: Between noon and 8 p.m. 

    This story was originally published November 26, 2025 at 12:18 PM.

    Related Stories from Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Ella Gonzales

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Ella Gonzales is a service journalism reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She is part of a team of local journalists who answer reader questions and write about life in North Texas. Ella mainly writes about local restaurants and where to find good deals around town.

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  • One small thing you can do for healthier food and exercise over holiday travel

    (CNN) — When she used to visit her in-laws during the holidays, Dana Santas and her husband kept to their schedule and went to the gym every day.

    “They’re on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, in the middle of nowhere,” said Santas, a CNN fitness contributor and a mind-body coach for professional athletes. “We were leaving for a 35-minute drive to the gym, spending an hour at the gym and then another 35 minutes back.”

    It can be hard to maintain the habits that make you feel good and promote health over the holidays –– especially when traveling to see loved ones. How do you leave the board game to get a workout? How do you say no to grandma’s legendary cookies when you already had pie?

    Maybe you shouldn’t do either, our experts say.

    It’s important to keep up behaviors that make you feel good over the holidays, but it isn’t worth throwing away all your enjoyment of the season, Santas said.

    The answer may be to let go of your expectations that you will eat and exercise as normal, and instead do one small thing to stay connected to your good habits. In this case, you can add some healthy micro-habits into your holiday celebrations.

    Holiday enjoyment comes first

    Guilt over neglecting an exercise routine or failing to maintain a strict schedule can interfere with your enjoyment of the holiday season.

    But it’s important to keep some healthy behaviors in place to ensure you feel good, Charlotte, North Carolina, dietitian Natalie Mokari said. Not having fiber and protein in your diet can affect digestion and energy levels, which means you might not enjoy your holiday time as much.

    Nevertheless, eating what you enjoy, sharing in family recipes and being flexible while with your loved ones are also important, Mokari said.

    Being too strict on what you can and can’t eat might also backfire, because such rigidity often leads to overeating things you’ve labeled as taboo, she added.

    “We place boundaries around food, then we want more of it,” Mokari said.

    Guilt you feel around straying from your health routines — which might not be feasible while traveling and celebrating the holidays –– might also lead you to throw out any attempts to feel good at all, Santas said.

    Instead of focusing on how little you have moved or how few vegetables you have eaten, celebrate the ways in which you can incorporate healthy habits while still enjoying time during the holidays, she said.

    “It doesn’t mean that you let go of being healthy, but it means you let go of (a rigid routine), and you let go of any guilt associated with that. Otherwise, you’re just sabotaging yourself,” Santas said.

    Add fruits and veggies but enjoy Christmas cookies, too

    If you want to feel good after holiday eating, don’t cut the goodies –– just add some fruits and vegetables, Mokari said.

    Traveling to visit family and friends for the holidays can often mean not being fully in control of your dietary options, whether it’s because you are going to restaurants or eating at other people’s houses, she added.

    When looking at a restaurant menu, order what looks good to you and enjoy it, Mokari said.

    “Also, is there an option to get some side of a vegetable, even if it’s like a side salad to get some greens in?” she said. “On a sandwich, adding lettuce, tomato, avocado or getting a side of beans with tacos (are) different things that you can do to kind of add some extra nutrients and fiber.”

    You can pair things together to make sure you are getting the fun holiday foods and drinks as well as ones that are more nutritious. For example, whenever you have a caffeinated or alcoholic beverage, also order a glass of water, Mokari said.

    Similarly, if you are on a road trip, it’s OK to have your favorite car snacks. If you want to make sure you stay feeling good, see if you can add in a fruit as well, she said.

    To eat more vegetables while at someone’s home, you can always pick something up at the store or offer to make a side dish such as a fall vegetable or a salad, Mokari said.

    To ensure you aren’t going overboard, keep in mind what you are most excited to eat and stay aware of your fullness level so you don’t feel uncomfortable, she said.

    But don’t spend too much time thinking about the proportion of holiday favorites to more nutrient-dense foods, she added. The most important thing is to enjoy your holiday with your loved ones.

    “One meal, a few meals, a few desserts –– it’s not a make-or-break situation for your health,” Mokari said.

    Pair movement with family time

    Getting in healthy movement over the holidays doesn’t mean you have to work up a sweat or even leave a gathering, Santas said.

    “Any movement that you can get during this time is great, and it’s almost like gravy, because … what most of us do is we just say, ‘OK, well, I can’t do my rigid routine that I always do, so I’m not going to do anything,’” she said.

    Travel can be hard on the body, so any movement is helpful that can counteract the stiffness, prolonged sitting, and aches and pains.

    “Any time that you can, stand up and move in ways that your body intuitively is telling you to. That might be stretching out really long, rotating, squatting down, like just move your body and reconnect with it and just get a sense of what it needs,” she said. “Don’t wait until you can get back to the gym to give it what it needs.”

    If you need to, stand up for family games and long catch-up chats to change your posture. Or tell everyone to bundle up and get outside for a walk, she said.

    “It can be a 10-minute walk out in the cold, crisp air,” Santas added. “Any opportunity to take little movement breaks.”

    Simple mobility exercises can help prevent injury, she said. Can you casually stretch or roll out on the floor while watching a movie with your loved ones?

    To take your activity up a notch without overdoing it, Santas recommends bringing simple tools for simple activities. A resistance band, for example, is easy to pack, and if you put it around your ankles or just above your knees, you can get a workout in with wide walks back and forth, she said.

    Lastly, Santas suggests playing.

    “Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. It’s fun,” she said. “Think about when we were kids, exercise was fun. That’s what we did when we went out and played.”

    Keep an eye on what the kids are doing at the holiday gathering. Can you try out their new dance moves or join in on tag or hide-and-seek?

    “Take the opportunity to play with your family,” Santas said.

    Madeline Holcombe and CNN

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  • Thanksgiving travelers at DC’s Union Station on why rail rules – WTOP News

    For holiday travelers, there are a number of choices, but at D.C.’s Union Station, rail riders made the case for hopping all aboard an Amtrak train.

    For holiday travelers, there are a number of choices, but at D.C.’s Union Station, rail riders made the case for hopping all aboard an Amtrak train.

    For Tamyshia Curry and her dog Sevyn, traveling by train to New York for the Thanksgiving holiday was a no-brainer, especially when compared to flying.

    “It’s a lot cheaper, and it’s easier,” Curry said. “Especially with a pet.”

    Sevyn, a 2-year-old mini goldendoodle, is a calm travel companion, Curry said.

    “She actually doesn’t mind it, she usually just sleeps,” Curry said.

    Although, Sevyn does like to snag the window seat.

    “She loves the window seat. Yeah, it’s her favorite,” Curry said, explaining that having her dog outside a crate means buying an extra seat — but it’s worth it.

    Curry also said her decision to hold off on buying a Thanksgiving week Amtrak ticket paid off, with a low $78 fare. But as she was explaining that, Sevyn snagged WTOP’s microphone!

    Sevyn had been eyeing the mini microphone with its furry windscreen, which Curry easily retrieved before the pup could make a complete snack of it.

    Mark Thompson and his family opted for a pre-Thanksgiving holiday trip to D.C. from Delaware, a decision prompted mainly by his 4-year-old son, Mateo. Asked about that, Mateo told WTOP the decision to take a train trip boiled down to one simple fact.

    “I like it,” he said. “Cause it’s fast.”

    His father asked, “and what else?”

    “Because it’s fun and there’s a lot of people in the train,” Mateo said.

    Thompson is also a fan.

    “I like the train, because it’s kind of relaxing, better than driving,” Thompson said. “On the way down, I was saying to myself how smooth the ride was.”

    Ana Conner, a Princeton student, was on her way home to Prince George, Virginia. Like Thompson, the train is an easy choice when compared to driving.

    “I do not want to drive through D.C. and Baltimore traffic,” she said. “The train makes it a lot easier, a lot less stressful.”

    Conner has a piece of advice for anyone who wants a stress-free trip by train.

    “College students in general, they book trains very, very quickly and a lot of times they’re sold out. So make sure, especially if you’re a college student, that you book way in advance,” she said.

    “And get your student discount!”

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Kate Ryan

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  • As Thanksgiving travel begins, here are tips for Sacramento residents

    As Thanksgiving travel begins, here are tips for Sacramento residents

    6 P.M. WE’RE STARTING THIS FRIDAY EVENING WITH A LIVE LOOK HERE AT THE ROADWAYS ACROSS OUR AREA. AND THIS IS HIGHWAY 50 IN RANCHO CORDOVA, I-5 IN SACRAMENTO, WHERE IT’S SLOWING THROUGH THAT S-CURVE RIGHT THERE THROUGH DOWNTOWN AND I-80 AND ROSEVILLE. WE HAVEN’T REACHED THE BIG THANKSGIVING TRAVEL RUSH JUST YET, BUT PEOPLE ARE ALREADY THINKING ABOUT GETTING OUT TO THEIR DESTINATION ALREADY. MILLIONS WILL BE DRIVING, FLYING, MAYBE TAKING A TRAIN SOMEWHERE AHEAD OF THE BIG HOLIDAY NEXT THURSDAY. THANKS FOR BEING WITH US TONIGHT AT SIX. I’M GULSTAN DART AND I’M EDIE LAMBERT, SO THE BUSIEST DAYS WILL BE NEXT TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY BEFORE THE HOLIDAY, AND THEN THE SUNDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING IS EXPECTED TO BE EVEN MORE CROWDED. FOR A LOOK AT THE AT THE ROADS RIGHT NOW, LET’S GO OUT LIVE TO KCRA 3’S MARICELA DE LA CRUZ SHE’S LIVE. TRACKER THREE. WHAT ARE YOU SEEING OUT THERE? EDIE? WE ARE DRIVING ALONG INTERSTATE 80 WESTBOUND AND YEAH, THIS. ISN’T THAT HOLIDAY TRAFFIC JUST YET, BUT IT IS EXPECTED THAT MORE THAN 11 MILLION CALIFORNIANS WILL BE TRAVELING. SO THIS IS SOMETHING OF WHAT WE MAY BE SEEING OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS. THOSE PEOPLE TRAVELING ON THE ROAD FOR THANKSGIVING, BECAUSE MORE THAN 9 MILLION PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO HIT THE ROAD ACROSS THE STATE. NOW, IF YOU’RE LEAVING FROM THE SACRAMENTO AREA, TRIPLE A RECOMMENDS GIVING YOURSELF EXTRA TIME AND CHECKING YOUR ROUTE BEFORE YOU GO. THEY DID A STUDY FROM SAN FRANCISCO TO SANTA ROSA, AND THEY’RE EXPECTING THAT DRIVE TO TAKE MORE THAN TWO HOURS. SO IF YOU’RE PLANNING ON DRIVING ON INTERSTATE 80, JUST BE PREPARED FOR THAT. NOW, IF YOU’RE FLYING. GOOD NEWS. AIR TRAVEL IN THE STATE WILL BE MUCH LIGHTER AT AROUND 1.1 MILLION PASSENGERS AT THE SACRAMENTO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, A SPOKESPERSON TELLS US THEY’LL BE FULLY STAFFED NEXT WEEK. BUT WITH SO MANY PEOPLE HEADING OUT, THEY’RE ENCOURAGING TRAVELERS TO TAKE RIDESHARE TO THE AIRPORT. NOW, TODAY, WE HEARD FROM SOME OF THOSE TRAVELERS WHO DECIDED TO LEAVE TODAY BECAUSE THEY SAY TICKETS WERE A LITTLE CHEAPER AND THEY WERE ALSO TRYING TO AVOID THE CROWDS. I ALWAYS DO WHERE I CHECK EACH DAY, AND IT WAS A CHEAP DAY, SO THAT WAS PART OF IT. I JUST DIDN’T WANT TO TRAVEL THE WEEK OF. IT’S MORE EXPENSIVE. FRIDAY WAS MORE CHEAPER, AND THEN SATURDAY AND SUNDAY I FEEL LIKE IT WOULD BE MORE CROWDED. MY AUNT JUST DROPPED US OFF BECAUSE WE THOUGHT IT WOULD BE A LOT OF CARS AND STUFF LIKE THAT. AND AND IF YOU’RE STILL SET ON PARKING, JUST A HEADS UP, IT COULD TAKE UP TO AN HOUR. FROM THE MOMENT YOU PARK TO THE MOMENT YOU REACH YOUR TERMINAL. NOW, WE’RE TOLD BY A SPOKESPERSON AT THE SACRAMENTO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT THAT THEY WILL BE PLANNING ON OPENING THE WEST ECONOMY LOT. IF IT DOES GET PRETTY PACKED OUT THERE, ADDING AN ADDITIONAL 3000 PARKING SPACES. FOR NOW, WE’RE LIVE IN LIVE. TRACKER MARICELA DE LA CRUZ KCRA THREE NEWS. ALL RIGHT, THANK YOU FOR THE UPDATE, MARICELA. WELL, IF YOU’RE DRIVING, YOU’LL HAVE TO PAY FOR GAS, OBVIOUSLY, UNLESS YOU’VE GOT AN EV. AND HERE’S A LOOK AT PRICES RIGHT NOW. YOU CAN ALSO SCAN THE QR CODE ON YOUR SCREEN. TRIPLE A SAYS THAT THE NATIONAL AVERAGE RIGHT NOW IS 309 A GALLON. THAT’S FOR REGULAR. THAT’S A FEW CENTS MORE THAN WHAT WE SAW LAST YEAR. WE’RE PAYING MORE HERE IN CALIFORNIA FOR 63

    As Thanksgiving travel begins, here are tips for Sacramento residents

    Updated: 6:52 PM PST Nov 21, 2025

    Editorial Standards

    With Thanksgiving next week, some travelers are getting a jump start on their holiday journey on Friday. Travelers leaving from the Sacramento area for Thanksgiving are advised to plan ahead, as road trips are expected to be lengthy while air travel is anticipated to be lighter than usual.AAA conducted a study from San Francisco to Santa Rosa, expecting the drive to take more than two hours, so those planning to travel on Interstate 80 should be prepared.For those flying, air travel in California will be much lighter, with around 1.1 million passengers. At Sacramento International Airport, a spokesperson said they will be fully staffed next week and encouraged travelers to use rideshare services to reach the airport.”I just didn’t want to travel the weekend. It’s more expensive,” said Desiree Lee, explaining her travel strategy. The lower cost also appealed to Itzylay Saucedo. “Friday was cheaper and then Saturday and Sunday, I feel like it’d be more crowded. My aunt just dropped us off because we thought there would be a lot of cars and stuff like that,” Saucedo said. Travelers who plan to park at SMF should be aware that it could take up to an hour from the moment they park to the time they reach their terminal. The West Economy lot will be open if needed, adding an additional 3,000 spaces.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    With Thanksgiving next week, some travelers are getting a jump start on their holiday journey on Friday.

    Travelers leaving from the Sacramento area for Thanksgiving are advised to plan ahead, as road trips are expected to be lengthy while air travel is anticipated to be lighter than usual.

    AAA conducted a study from San Francisco to Santa Rosa, expecting the drive to take more than two hours, so those planning to travel on Interstate 80 should be prepared.

    For those flying, air travel in California will be much lighter, with around 1.1 million passengers. At Sacramento International Airport, a spokesperson said they will be fully staffed next week and encouraged travelers to use rideshare services to reach the airport.

    “I just didn’t want to travel the weekend. It’s more expensive,” said Desiree Lee, explaining her travel strategy.

    The lower cost also appealed to Itzylay Saucedo.

    “Friday was cheaper and then Saturday and Sunday, I feel like it’d be more crowded. My aunt just dropped us off because we thought there would be a lot of cars and stuff like that,” Saucedo said.

    Travelers who plan to park at SMF should be aware that it could take up to an hour from the moment they park to the time they reach their terminal.

    The West Economy lot will be open if needed, adding an additional 3,000 spaces.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • CLT airport preps for busy Thanksgiving travel, looks to move past shutdown delays

    With Thanksgiving around the corner, Charlotte airport officials are expecting a busy holiday period with nearly 2 million passengers arriving and catching flights, starting Thursday.

    And those passengers will being using an airport recovering from the lingering impact of the government shutdown. The airport held a news conference Wednesday about what travelers can expect from Nov. 20 through Dec. 2.

    The 1.9 million passengers using the airport is about 10% less than last year’s record-setting total of more than 2.09 million people. Nearly 430,000 passengers are expected to go through security checkpoints, a 2.5% decrease from last year’s total of 440,750.

    This Thanksgiving season, CLT is gearing up for 1.9 million travelers between Nov. 20 and Dec. 2, with Nov. 29, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 expected to be peak travel days.
    This Thanksgiving season, CLT is gearing up for 1.9 million travelers between Nov. 20 and Dec. 2, with Nov. 29, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 expected to be peak travel days. Charlotte Douglas International Airport

    What will be the busiest days at CLT?

    Some of CLT’s busiest days for Thanksgiving travel period are expected to be Saturday, Nov. 29 and Monday, Dec. 1. Each day is projected to have over 83,000 departing passengers.

    Sunday, Nov. 30 is expected to be the busiest with 178,000 total travelers.

    More than 9,000 flight departures are scheduled for the 13-day travel period.

    American Airlines, which operate 90% of CLT flights, will operate 8,000 flights during the Thanksgiving travel period, according to Pascual Alvarez, managing director of customer care at Charlotte Douglas.

    Government shutdown impacted Charlotte airport

    Before the 43-day federal government shutdown ended Nov. 12, Charlotte’s airport had thousands of delays and hundreds of canceled flights due to a shortage of air traffic controllers working without pay.

    “The recent federal shutdown certainly presented considerable challenges across the national aviation system and at this airport,” said Ted Kaplan Wednesday, CLT chief business and innovation officer.

    But Kaplan is not anticipating significant impacts at Charlotte Douglas during the holiday week from the fallout of the shutdown.

    “Our focus this season is on giving every traveler a safe and smooth trip,” Kaplan said. “We’re working closely with our federal and airline partners to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently.”

    He thanked TSA and FAA employees for their work during the shutdown. “They’re working hard behind the scenes every day so that travelers can depend on a safe and reliable journey,” Kaplan added.

    The shutdown by the numbers for CLT

    In October, Charlotte Douglas had more than 5,000 delays and over 80 cancellations. For November through Nov. 13 — the day after Trump signed the bill — CLT saw 3,065 delays and 547 cancellations, according to a Charlotte Observer review of FlightAware data, a website providing real-time flight information.

    On Oct, 28, air traffic controllers received their first paychecks showing zero dollars due to the shutdown. At CLT, members of the local Air Traffic Controllers Association distributed flyers to highlight how the shutdown was hurting workers.

    When shortages of growing air traffic controllers increased this month, the federal government responded by mandating flight cutbacks at 40 major airports across the country, including CLT.

    Last week, federal workers and airlines such as American Airlines worked to get back on track after lawmakers came to an agreement to reopen the government.

    “I’m very glad that it did not extend any further,” Kaplan said.

    As for delays on Wednesday, there were 36 at Charlotte Douglas, and no cancellations, as of 5 p.m.

    Something to be thankful for

    CLT is looking forward to its first Thanksgiving since finishing a $608-million terminal lobby expansion project, which includes more space and more lanes at security checkpoints.

    Some of the other highlights include a glass canopy for curbside protection, a 16-lane front to ease traffic, more food and shopping options, and modernized ticket counters.

    Security is now faster with three consolidated checkpoints and 21 lanes, including 11 automated lanes. The expanded baggage claim, plus new escalators and elevators, all help provide a smoother, more convenient airport experience.

    CLT began making plans back in 2008 for a project that took half a decade to complete. Airport officials said it was the “crown jewel” of its Destination CLT, a $4 billion capital investment to renovate and expand the facility.

    The airport is also making renovations in Concourses D and E, scheduled to finish by 2027. A new Fourth Parallel Runway is planned for 2027, and Phase III of the Concourse A expansion is being designed.

    Staying prepared

    Charlotte Douglas is reminding travelers to plan ahead this travel season.

    “We understand that some travelers may feel nervous after the shutdown,” Kaplan said. “And our message is simple, plan ahead and allow extra time. Check your flight status directly with the airline.”

    Passengers are encouraged to check the airport’s “Don’t Wing It, Prepare to Fly!” guide for helpful tips on parking reservations, the Royalty Program, REAL ID requirements, and on-site dining and shopping options.

    Booking parking in advance at parkCLT.com or via the CLT Airport app is highly recommended, and travelers should try to arrive at their reserved parking spot at least 30 minutes before entering the terminal.

    CLT officials recommend arriving inside the terminal at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international departures. For the latest on security wait times and shuttle services, passengers can check cltairport.com or use the CLT Airport app to stay updated in real time.

    Stuck in the airport on Turkey Day ?

    On Thanksgiving Day, classic holiday meal will be available at Brookwood Farms in the Atrium and PZA, Concourse E.

    Related Stories from Charlotte Observer

    Chase Jordan

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  • Missed your annual flu shot? Local doctor says: ‘Time to get it’ – WTOP News

    This year’s flu season may arrive later than usual, but that does not necessarily mean it will be mild. It does mean that it’s not too late to get your flu vaccine.

    There is no one-to-one correlation between cold weather and getting sick.

    That old adage about stepping outside and catching a cold does not tell the whole story. What does matter is that winter pushes people indoors and into closer contact, making it easier for viruses to spread.

    Children’s National Hospital infectious disease physician Dr. Alexandra Yonts told WTOP that this year’s flu season may arrive later than usual, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be mild.

    She warned flu cases could start climbing “after Christmas and New Year’s,” when people travel and families gather.

    “Last year, almost 300 children died from influenza, and most of (them) were previously healthy,” Yonts said.

    She said one reason the flu shot remains essential is for protecting people with respiratory illnesses, existing health conditions or weakened immune systems.

    And no, the flu shot cannot give you the flu.

    “In common vocabulary, we throw around the term ‘flu’ to mean any sort of viral illness that gives us a fever. But there are hosts of other viruses that are not covered by the influenza vaccine that can still make you sick,” she said. “Protecting you against influenza specifically is still a priority.”

    Yonts added that getting vaccinated is especially important before visiting young children, elderly relatives or immunocompromised family members during the holidays.

    “Think of it as doing it for those people, if you aren’t interested in doing it just for yourself,” she said.

    If you’re behind, Yonts said getting both the flu shot and the updated COVID booster at the same visit is completely safe: “That has been studied, and it shows there’s no major difference in the side effects. If anything, you’re getting them both out of the way at once.”

    Flu shots are recommended for those 6 months old and older, and doctors say it takes about two weeks to build full immunity.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Abigail Constantino

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  • Food, Wine, and Fall Fun at Brampton 1860 – Chestertown, MD | Better Living

    Looking for the best Halloween getaway in Maryland? This Eastern Shore bed and breakfast becomes a spooky wonderland each October, offering wine dinners, adult trick-or-treating, and luxury accommodations just 2 hours from DC. Here’s our complete guide to Brampton 1860’s fall festivities and why it’s Maryland’s top-rated romantic inn for autumn escapes.

    BRAMPTON 1860 AT A GLANCE

    • Location: 25227 Chestertown Road, Chestertown, MD
      ▸ Eastern Shore setting, 2 hours from Baltimore or DC, 1 hour from Wilmington
    • Vibe: Romantic boutique luxury on a historic 35-acre estate
    • Price Range: $$–$$$ (Typically $229–$450 depending on room and season)
    • Accommodations: Manor House rooms and private cottages with fireplaces, jetted tubs, and Japanese soaking tubs
    • Dining: Farm-to-table breakfast, afternoon tea, seasonal dinners, and local restaurant partnerships
    • On-Site Perks: Walking trails, gardens, fire pit, Certified Wildlife Habitat, EV charging, and resident chickens
    • Awards & Recognition:
      • Select Registry member since 2001
      • Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
      • Certified Wildlife Habitat designation
    • Best For: Romantic getaways, anniversaries, fall retreats, history lovers, nature-focused escapes
    • Reservations: BramptonInn.com  or (410) 778-1860

    Halloween Fun at Brampton 1860

    “I haven’t had this much fun at Halloween since I was a kid.”

    The woman at the next table wasn’t exaggerating. Some historic inns give you tasteful fall decorations and call it a season. Brampton 1860 in Chestertown, MD gives you a head groundskeeper dressed as a T-Rex handing out candy, a violinist playing while skeletons lounge by a charcuterie, and a five-course wine dinner where the second course comes with a plastic spider on top. Oh, and adult trick-or-treating through a candlelit 35-acre estate at night.

    This is not your grandmother’s bed and breakfast.

    Over three October days, we watched this 1860s Eastern Shore manor transform for fall and Halloween. Not with a few pumpkins and some mums, but with the kind of all-in seasonal commitment that makes you wonder why every place doesn’t try this hard.

    Around us, adults in their 50s, 60s, and 70s were giggling over googly-eyed salads, posing with dinosaurs, and comparing their trick-or-treat candy hauls like competitive children. We were sipping curated wine. Eating chef-crafted Southern cuisine. And yes, also sneaking extra chocolate from the monster-guarded candy bar.

    Welcome to fall at Brampton 1860, where a 19th-century manor on Maryland’s Eastern Shore has figured out something most places miss: sophisticated doesn’t have to mean serious.

    The Grape Expectations Halloween Dinner was the centerpiece, sure. But autumn magic was everywhere.

    Arriving in Autumn: Historic Chestertown Sets the Scene

    Book Plate bookstore with red awning and storefront window, scarecrow decorations, pumpkins stacked by entrance, blue Cat Colloquium sandwich board sign, brick sidewalk with other shops visible including blue awning Charming shops line Chestertown’s brick sidewalks | Photo: Better Living

    We started our weekend in Historic Chestertown, MD –  just a four minute drive from the Brampton Inn. The colonial river town had fully committed to fall, with Halloween decorations adorning every storefront and charming scarecrows lining the brick sidewalks throughout downtown.

    Chester River waterfront view with tall ship and sailboats docked at marina, brick walkway with park bench in foreground, green leaves framing top of image, fall foliage visible across river, blue sky with puffy clouds
    Chester River waterfront view with tall ship and sailboats docked at marina, brick walkway with park bench in foreground, green leaves framing top of image, fall foliage visible across river, blue sky with puffy clouds Historic Chestertown’s waterfront on the Chester River | Photo: Better Living

    The waterfront along the Chester River offered peaceful walking paths where early fall colors were just beginning to show. While late October hadn’t yet brought peak foliage, the hints of what November would deliver were everywhere. The town’s authentic charm, free from tourist trap syndrome, made it clear why people keep returning to this corner of the Eastern Shore.

    We strolled the quaint shops and historic streets, soaking in the small-town atmosphere before heading to Brampton 1860 for check-in.

    Returning to Marley’s Cottage

    Brampton 1860 blue and gold entrance sign decorated with dried corn stalks, surrounded by chrysanthemums, pumpkins, and ornamental grasses on stone wall
    Brampton 1860 blue and gold entrance sign decorated with dried corn stalks, surrounded by chrysanthemums, pumpkins, and ornamental grasses on stone wall Fall welcomes you from the moment you arrive | Photo: Better Living

    Pulling into Brampton 1860 felt like coming home. The inn’s entrance, decorated with corn stalks, mums, and pumpkins, immediately signaled the seasonal shift. But the real magic awaited at Marley’s Cottage, where that famous red door once again delivered its surreal reveal. What looks like an old barn from the parking area opens to expose a bright, spacious 1,000-square-foot retreat that remains completely hidden from view until you step through.

    Bright, airy cottage bedroom with vaulted ceiling, king bed with white linens and burgundy leather bench at foot, two burgundy leather recliners, sliding barn door to bathroom, red accent lamps, colorful area rug, hardwood floors
    Bright, airy cottage bedroom with vaulted ceiling, king bed with white linens and burgundy leather bench at foot, two burgundy leather recliners, sliding barn door to bathroom, red accent lamps, colorful area rug, hardwood floors Inside Marley’s Cottage at Brampton 1860 | Photo: Better Living

    Having stayed here during summer, we knew what to expect, yet the cottage’s appeal only grew stronger. The screened porch with its Japanese soaking tub now overlooked autumn meadows. The wood-burning fireplace was primed for cozy evenings. Even the front porch swing, our morning coffee spot, felt more inviting with fall’s crisp air replacing the warm summer mornings.

    The Manor House at Brampton 1860

    Brampton 1860's three-story red brick Georgian manor house with white columned porch surrounded by vibrant orange and yellow fall foliage under blue sky with puffy clouds
    Brampton 1860's three-story red brick Georgian manor house with white columned porch surrounded by vibrant orange and yellow fall foliage under blue sky with puffy clouds Fall colors frame the Manor House at Brampton 1860 | Photo: Better Living

    After settling in, we walked the two minutes to the Manor House for coffee and cookies, a ritual that never gets old. Seeing Innkeepers Hilari and Dave again was wonderful. Their genuine enthusiasm for Brampton and their guests creates an atmosphere where returning visitors feel like old friends rather than repeat customers.

    Cozy library with floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelves, brown leather furniture, fireplace with fall decorations on mantel, warm yellow walls and oriental rug
    Cozy library with floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelves, brown leather furniture, fireplace with fall decorations on mantel, warm yellow walls and oriental rug The Manor House library dressed for autumn | Photo: Better Living

    Over coffee, they shared details about the evening’s Halloween dinner and what to expect. The planning, they explained, had been extensive. Head Groundskeeper Geoff had been carving dozens of pumpkins and decorating the property all week. The kitchen team had perfected their playful Southern Gothic menu. Monica from DMV Distributing had selected wines specifically to complement both the food and the spooky theme. Every detail had been considered.

    Chocolate chip muffins decorated with white frosting ghosts with chocolate chip eyes and mouths, arranged on silver serving tray with pumpkin in background
    Chocolate chip muffins decorated with white frosting ghosts with chocolate chip eyes and mouths, arranged on silver serving tray with pumpkin in background Afternoon tea gets the Halloween treatment | Photo: Better Living

    The afternoon teatime that day highlighted seasonal treats that bridged the gap between Brampton’s daily hospitality and the dining event ahead. Ghostly muffins, pumpkin shaped deviled eggs, fresh baked cookies, and the warm welcome from staff who remembered us from months earlier reinforced why we love it here.

    Dinner in Chestertown: The Retriever Bar

    hick burger with melted cheese on brioche bun with lettuce and special sauce, served with generous portion of golden french fries on white plate, restaurant setting
    hick burger with melted cheese on brioche bun with lettuce and special sauce, served with generous portion of golden french fries on white plate, restaurant setting The Retriever Bar’s perfectly cooked House Burger | Photo: Better Living

    That first evening, we headed back to Chestertown for dinner at The Retriever Bar. The restaurant has a great vibe with a nice bar up front and dining area in the back. The House Burger was cooked to perfection and generously portioned with crispy fries. We also tried the shrimp and grits, which arrived beautifully presented with stone-ground grits. Our server Kassie was fantastic, providing friendly service and local recommendations.

    Kassie mentioned something unexpected: The Cat Colloquium, located right above Stam’s Luncheonette.

    The Cat Colloquium

    Siamese cat with dark face and cream body receiving head scratches from visitor's hand, cat's eyes contentedly closed, sitting on lap covered with cat-patterned blanket in indoor cat cafe setting
    Siamese cat with dark face and cream body receiving head scratches from visitor's hand, cat's eyes contentedly closed, sitting on lap covered with cat-patterned blanket in indoor cat cafe setting Making friends at The Cat Colloquium | Photo: Better Living

    This warm, friendly space invites visitors to relax and play with 13 resident cats, free of charge. Donations are appreciated but not necessary, and the inquisitive felines make it a surprisingly calming experience. The Cat Colloquium is exactly the kind of quirky, genuine attraction that makes small town exploration so rewarding.

    Morning Transformation: Halloween Takes Over

    Stack of fluffy pancakes with maple syrup, crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, fresh berries including strawberries and blackberries on white plate with decorative quilt placemat
    Stack of fluffy pancakes with maple syrup, crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, fresh berries including strawberries and blackberries on white plate with decorative quilt placemat Fall inspired Apple Pancakes with local bacon and fresh eggs at Brampton | Photo: Better Living

    Breakfast is included at Brampton, and always a highlight. The menu changes daily, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including eggs from the inn’s own chickens. The coffee stays hot, and watching the Manor House kitchen in action, you can feel the care going into every plate.

    That morning, though, felt extra special as Halloween came alive in real time. Geoff and the staff were everywhere, turning Brampton into a spooky wonderland. Skeletons appeared on the porch, spider webs draped the trees, jack-o-lanterns lined the pathways, and a full-size witch on a vintage bicycle greeted us on the walk back to our cottage. The decorations struck a fun balance between sophisticated and playfully ghoulish.

    Life-size witch figure with green face and black robes positioned on vintage bicycle on lawn with fall trees in background
    Life-size witch figure with green face and black robes positioned on vintage bicycle on lawn with fall trees in background The witch on wheels that greeted cottage guests | Photo: Better Living

    We spent much of the morning exploring the 35 acres as the setup continued. The trails here are well-maintained and easy to navigate with multiple spots to pause and take in the natural beauty. Even in late October, before peak foliage, we were surrounded by seasonal color.

    A Picnic Worth Staying In For

    Bowl of rich beef stew with chunks of meat, carrots, potatoes and peas in thick gravy, served with side salad and red wine on woven placemat
    Bowl of rich beef stew with chunks of meat, carrots, potatoes and peas in thick gravy, served with side salad and red wine on woven placemat The perfect fall meal: Brampton’s hearty beef stew picnic | Photo: Better Living

    Rather than venture out for lunch, we’d arranged for Brampton’s beef stew picnic to be delivered to our cottage. This turned out to be another one of the trip’s highlights.

    The meal arrives in a large basket that you can take anywhere. It’s a hearty portion of stew for two with plenty of tender meat in a rich, flavorful base. Fresh bread and butter accompanied it, along with salad, a bottle of wine, and two brownies for dessert. The portions were generous enough that we could have easily stretched it further.

    What made it particularly appealing was not needing to leave the property when we simply wanted to unwind. Brampton’s onsite dining options, with menus that change seasonally, provide real convenience without sacrificing quality. While dining in Chestertown is wonderful, not much compares to enjoying a chef-prepared meal on your private cottage porch, surrounded by fall foliage, with nothing on the agenda except relaxation.

    Grape Expectations: 5 Course Halloween Wine Dinner

    Brampton 1860 manor house at sunset with dramatic pink and orange sky, fountain in foreground, manicured lawn and historic architecture highlighted by warm evening light
    Brampton 1860 manor house at sunset with dramatic pink and orange sky, fountain in foreground, manicured lawn and historic architecture highlighted by warm evening light Brampton 1860 decorated for Halloween at sunset | Photo: Better Living

    As evening approached, anticipation built. Guests began gathering, many in subtle Halloween touches that added to the festive atmosphere without anyone taking it too seriously. The Manor House and surrounding grounds had turned into something spectacular.

    A Monster Welcome

    Close-up of furry brown monster glove with tiger-striped claws holding champagne flute against green ivy wall, showing the playful Halloween spirit
    Close-up of furry brown monster glove with tiger-striped claws holding champagne flute against green ivy wall, showing the playful Halloween spirit A monster hand offers guests a welcome glass of sparkling wine | Photo: Better Living

    Our first hint that this wasn’t going to be a typical wine dinner came right away. As we walked past the garden wall, a furry monster hand reached out through an opening and offered us glasses of sparkling wine. The whimsical touch set expectations perfectly. This would be sophisticated, playful, and delightfully spooky.

    The outdoor dining setup under the string lights looked even better as the sun went down. Tables near the fire pit created just enough coziness without feeling crowded. The decorations we’d seen being put up earlier now glowed in the evening light, and violinist Janice Mahan played throughout dinner, adding a calm, refined layer to the Halloween fun.

    Grape Expectations Halloween Wine Dinner Menu

    Outdoor patio dining scene with guests at tables, orange skeleton decoration visible at buffet table, string lights overhead, black cat walking through scene
    Outdoor patio dining scene with guests at tables, orange skeleton decoration visible at buffet table, string lights overhead, black cat walking through scene Brampton guests enjoying dinner as Squeaky wanders by | Photo: Better Living

    Monica Connors from DMV Distributing walked us through each wine pairing with knowledge and warmth, making it feel less like a lesson and more like sharing something she genuinely loved.

    We started with a bewitched Southern charcuterie board. Specialty cheeses, smoky meats, and pickles celebrated the flavors of the Eastern Shore. The Prosecco from Italy was lively and refreshing, an easy way to settle in.

    The first course was a black-eyed pea salad with a cat-shaped tortilla chip perched on top, complete with googly eyes. Spain’s Jinello Dry White cut through the salad’s bold flavors and kept everything tasting bright.

    Halloween-themed bean salads in white square dishes with green cat-shaped tortilla chips and googly eyes as garnish, plastic skeleton decoration, gold spoon on black tablecloth
    Halloween-themed bean salads in white square dishes with green cat-shaped tortilla chips and googly eyes as garnish, plastic skeleton decoration, gold spoon on black tablecloth Creative plates for the Grape Expectations Halloween Wine Dinner | Photo: Better Living

    Next came lobster shrimp cakes, golden and crisp outside, tender inside, with lemon aioli and a fun plastic spider tucked on top. The Viognier Lodi from California matched the sweetness of the seafood without getting in the way.

    The jambalaya was a masterclass in Southern cooking. Shrimp, crab, and smoky sausage swam in a rich, spicy sauce over ghost cornbread that soaked up every drop. California Zinfandel held its own against the heat and the bold flavors.

    Elegant fireplace mantel decorated with skeleton figures, black candles, paper bats on walls, bourbon cocktail with bone stirrer held in foreground, pumpkin on floor
    Elegant fireplace mantel decorated with skeleton figures, black candles, paper bats on walls, bourbon cocktail with bone stirrer held in foreground, pumpkin on floor Sipping a Wa Barrel Bomb bourbon cocktail with a bone swizzle in the lounge | Photo: Better Living

    For dessert, The Lane Cake was stacked with bourbon-soaked raisins, coconut, and pecans under a fluffy layer of frosting, topped with cherries and googly eyes. It came with a Wa Barrel Bomb bourbon cocktail and a bone swizzle for stirring. Sweet, boozy, and delightfully weird, it had the table laughing while the evening’s festivities were just getting started.

    Adult Trick or Treat: The Evening Continues

    Inflatable T-Rex costume and person in pink bunny onesie with scary face standing on porch with orange candy bucket and caution tape decoration
    Inflatable T-Rex costume and person in pink bunny onesie with scary face standing on porch with orange candy bucket and caution tape decoration T-Rex and nightmare bunny ready for adult trick-or-treaters | Photo: Better Living

    After dinner, the fun continued with adult trick-or-treat stations throughout Brampton. A nightmarish bunny manned one station. A T-Rex (Geoff again, deeply committed to the role) guarded another. In the ghoulishly decorated lounge, the bar overflowed with even more candy and treats.

    Elegant Manor House lounge transformed for Halloween with antique wooden bar, skeleton bartender prop, life-size witch figure in Victorian dress, crystal chandelier, gold wallpaper, fireplace decorated with black paper bats, purple LED lights, black candles on mantel, leather club chairs around small tables, oriental rug on hardwood floors
    Elegant Manor House lounge transformed for Halloween with antique wooden bar, skeleton bartender prop, life-size witch figure in Victorian dress, crystal chandelier, gold wallpaper, fireplace decorated with black paper bats, purple LED lights, black candles on mantel, leather club chairs around small tables, oriental rug on hardwood floors The ghoulishly decorated lounge where candy and spirits flowed freely | Photo: Better Living

    This extended the evening into something more than just dinner. It was a memorable experience that invited guests to explore, play, and connect. We found ourselves chatting with other couples, sharing laughs about our candy hauls, and marveling at how Brampton had made adults genuinely excited about Halloween again.

    Wide view of evening outdoor dining event with multiple round tables of guests, fire pit area visible, pergola with lights, skeleton decorations at serving station
    Wide view of evening outdoor dining event with multiple round tables of guests, fire pit area visible, pergola with lights, skeleton decorations at serving station The outdoor dining area aglow for Grape Expectations | Photo: Better Living

    Multiple guests said the same thing: this was the best Halloween celebration they’d experienced since childhood. The magic came from balancing sophistication with playfulness. Excellent wines and expertly prepared dishes sat alongside googly-eyed salads and costumed characters. The staff’s enthusiasm was also infectious. They weren’t just hosting an event. They were clearly having fun creating it, and that energy filled the entire property.

    Brampton 1860 hosts a special wine dinner each month, but they sell out quickly. Check the Brampton events page to secure your reservation early.

    Morning After: Savoring the Last Moments

    Woman in tan jacket and baseball cap standing on mowed grass trail overlooking golden meadow with fall foliage treeline displaying yellows, oranges and reds against bright blue sky with white clouds"
    Woman in tan jacket and baseball cap standing on mowed grass trail overlooking golden meadow with fall foliage treeline displaying yellows, oranges and reds against bright blue sky with white clouds" Enjoy walking trails across 35 acres with expansive views at Brampton 1860 | Photo: Better Living

    Our final morning began, as all Brampton mornings should, with coffee on the cottage swing followed by the walk to breakfast. The Manor House dining room buzzed with conversation from the previous evening. New friendships had formed over the shared experience, and the communal breakfast allowed those connections to continue.

    After eating, we took one last autumn hike along the trails. November visitors will see peak fall colors, but even in late October, the combination of changing leaves, morning light, and that cozy autumn chill made the walk memorable.

    A Final Stop in Chestertown

    Historic brick sidewalk in downtown Chestertown with red brick buildings displaying Maryland and American flags, corn stalks and spider web decorations, pumpkins and gourds on stoops, person walking, fall trees visible
    Historic brick sidewalk in downtown Chestertown with red brick buildings displaying Maryland and American flags, corn stalks and spider web decorations, pumpkins and gourds on stoops, person walking, fall trees visible Downtown Chestertown dressed for Halloween | Photo: Better Living

    Before heading home, we stopped back in Chestertown for lunch and a bit of final shopping. The town’s charm, made even more fun with Halloween decorations and sidewalk scarecrows, showed why a Brampton stay pairs so well with exploring downtown. Historic inn luxury meets small-town character, creating a getaway that feels welcoming and timeless.

    We’ll be sharing a full guide to fall in Chestertown soon, highlighting the best shops, restaurants, and seasonal activities. For now, just know that the four-minute drive from Brampton makes it easy to enjoy both the peaceful estate and the lively town.

    Why Fall at Brampton Works So Well

    Rustic red barn and tall brick silo on Brampton property with fall trees in background, showing the estate's agricultural heritage
    Rustic red barn and tall brick silo on Brampton property with fall trees in background, showing the estate's agricultural heritage Historic farm buildings add to Brampton’s 35-acre charm | Photo: Better Living

    Having now experienced both summer and fall at Brampton, it’s clear that autumn brings something truly remarkable. The crisp, comfortable temperatures make exploring the 35 acres a pleasure, and the cozy fireplaces, warm beverages, and seasonal touches create an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. The fall events calendar adds extra layers of excitement, making each stay feel unique.

    What really sets Brampton 1860 apart in autumn is the full commitment to the season. They don’t just swap out a few decorations, they rethink menus, adjust activities, and craft experiences that capture the essence of fall. The Halloween dinner was a perfect example. Not just wine and food with a spooky twist, but a celebration of the season, Southern cuisine, and the simple joy of gathering with others.

    Planning Your Fall Visit To Brampton 1860

    Outdoor evening dining event with guests seated at round tables under string lights, gravel pathway leading to illuminated brick manor house, fall trees surrounding patio area
    Outdoor evening dining event with guests seated at round tables under string lights, gravel pathway leading to illuminated brick manor house, fall trees surrounding patio area Grape Expectations Halloween Dinner under the stars | Photo: Better Living

    The best time to experience Brampton depends on what you’re seeking. Late October brings comfortable temperatures, Halloween events, and foliage beginning its transformation. Early to mid-November offers peak fall colors and perfect hiking weather. Late November features Thanksgiving celebrations and that cozy retreat atmosphere that makes extended stays so appealing.

    Marley’s Cottage remains our top recommendation for its privacy, space, and that unforgettable red door entrance. The Japanese soaking tub on the screened porch becomes especially inviting during fall evenings. Manor House rooms offer easy access to common areas, ideal for guests who want to maximize time in the library and social spaces.

    When planning, check Brampton’s event calendar first, then book your room and any dining experiences together. Special events like Grape Expectations require advance reservations and sell out quickly. Consider arriving a day early or staying a day after to fully enjoy the property without rushing.

    The Brampton Difference

    Woman in tan jacket sitting on ornate metal bench overlooking golden meadow with tall grasses, yellow-green leaves framing the top of image, mixed forest with fall colors in background under blue sky with white clouds
    Woman in tan jacket sitting on ornate metal bench overlooking golden meadow with tall grasses, yellow-green leaves framing the top of image, mixed forest with fall colors in background under blue sky with white clouds Perfect spots to pause along Brampton’s trails | Photo: Better Living

    What sets Brampton apart isn’t one thing. It’s how everything works together.

    An 1860s manor preserved with care, thirty-five acres of wildlife habitat, farm-to-table breakfasts with eggs from their own chickens, an exceptional staff, and innkeepers Dave and Hilari who are genuinely passionate about both preservation and hospitality. And yes, Squeaky the legendary 14-year-old black cat who clearly runs the show will gladly give you a tour if you have any snacks.

    It’s how they reinvent themselves with each season while maintaining core excellence that earned Select Registry membership and National Register of Historic Places designation. They can throw a Halloween party that has adults laughing like kids without losing any sophistication.

    Brampton succeeds because they understand something fundamental about hospitality – luxury isn’t just about fine things. It’s about experiences, attention, and moments you remember long after you leave.

    Your Fall Escape Awaits

    Autumn on Maryland’s Eastern Shore offers everything a seasonal getaway should provide. Natural beauty. Cozy atmosphere. Exceptional food. That sense of escape that comes from truly disconnecting. Brampton 1860 elevates all of it, creating experiences that exceed expectations while making everything feel effortless.

    Whether celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic escape, or simply wanting to experience one of the region’s finest historic inns at its most captivating season, fall at Brampton delivers.

    Ready to Book Your Brampton 1860 Getaway?

    Experience historic charm, private cottages, farm-to-table breakfasts, and serene Eastern Shore landscapes.

    Book Your Stay at Brampton 1860!

    Upcoming Events: Your Fall and Winter Calendar at Brampton 1860

    Brampton’s seasonal calendar runs well beyond Halloween. Each celebration is designed with the same attention to detail, creativity, and sense of fun that shaped the Grape Expectations Halloween dinner. Here’s what’s coming up next.


    Elegant Afternoon Tea

    November 23 and December 14, 2025
    2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
    $49 per person plus tax and gratuity

    A refined afternoon in the Manor House featuring curated teas and house-made treats. Gentle, quiet, and indulgent in the best way. Reserve by calling (410) 778-1860 to avoid additional platform fees.


    Grape Expectations: “Anything but Thanksgiving”

    November 17, 2025
    6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
    $65 per person plus $10 gratuity and tax

    Overnight guests enjoy 15% off Thursday night stays.

    This wine and small-plate tasting takes the richness of fall ingredients and steers it somewhere more creative than the usual turkey spread. Five small plates from the kitchen, each paired with wines selected by Monica Connors of DMV Distributing. Expect thoughtful pairings, playful touches, and a relaxed dining room atmosphere. Space is limited and early booking is encouraged.


    The Ultimate Eastern Shore Thanksgiving Getaway

    November 26 to 30, 2025
    Four-night package
    Save 15% on room rates

    This is Brampton’s signature holiday experience. It is not simply a place to stay for Thanksgiving. It is a complete four-day celebration that blends tradition, seasonal cooking, small-town charm, and time to relax. Many guests return for this week year after year.

    Wednesday

    Champagne welcome, live music from 3 PM to 6 PM, and chocolate treats from Bespoke Chocolate in Chestertown.

    Thursday: Thanksgiving Feast

    Social hour with champagne cocktails and live music, followed by a 5 PM feast in the Manor House dining room. Expect roast turkey, honey-baked ham, mashed potatoes, herb stuffing, Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, biscuits, cornbread with whipped butter, and homemade pies from Pastry Chef Carole. A glass of Crow Vineyard wine is included.

    Friday and Saturday

    Explore Chestertown’s historic downtown, visit the Saturday Farmers Market, and consider booking the Chester River cruise aboard a vintage 65-foot yacht (tickets sell out early). Expect an elevated teatime with cocktails by the fire and the Manor House transitioning into its Christmas décor.

    Sunday

    A final breakfast before departure.

    Throughout the stay: daily three-course breakfasts, decadent teatime treats, homemade cookies, and full access to the property’s 35 acres. Availability is extremely limited and advance planning is essential.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Fall at Brampton 1860

    When is peak fall foliage at Brampton 1860?

    Early to mid-November typically offers the most vibrant autumn colors, though late October begins showing beautiful seasonal changes.

    Do I need to book dining events separately from my room?

    Yes, special events like Grape Expectations require separate reservations and often sell out quickly. Book both your room and dining experiences together for the best availability.

    Is Brampton 1860 good for a romantic fall getaway?

    Absolutely. The cozy fireplaces, private cottages, autumn atmosphere, and intimate dining experiences make it ideal for couples.

    How far is Brampton from major cities?

    About 2 hours from Washington DC or Baltimore, and 1 hour from Wilmington, DE—an easy drive for a weekend escape.

    Are pets allowed at Brampton?

    Select cottages (Russell’s Cottage and Robin’s Nest) welcome pets. Book early as these rooms fill quickly.

    What’s included in the room rate?

    Full gourmet breakfast daily, afternoon tea service at 4 PM, access to all 35 acres of grounds, and use of common areas including the fire pit.

    Can I visit just for dinner without staying overnight?

    Some dining events are exclusively for overnight guests, while others welcome outside reservations based on availability. Contact Brampton 1860 directly for specific event policies.

    Better Living uses affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no cost to you.

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  • How to save money this Labor Day weekend

    (CNN) — As Americans prepare for the last holiday weekend of the summer, many are looking to cut travel costs as much as they can.

    Travelers are already paying less for domestic plane tickets, rental cars and hotel stays – the cost of which are all down compared to last year, according to AAA, the automotive and trip-planning group. But even with those savings, Deloitte’s Summer Travel Survey found that Americans are embracing a “more frugal approach” to traveling this summer.

    For those looking to go on a late summer trip — something travelers are increasingly opting for — here are some ways to save.

    Plan your trip in advance, mapping out gas stops

    Gas prices have come down substantially from their 2022 peak, but drivers are still looking for ways to trim their gas bill, especially on long road trips. AAA expects gas prices to stay around $3.33 going into Labor Day, close to last year’s average.

    Experts say identifying the cheapest gas stations and most fuel-efficient route — as well as keeping the windows closed while driving — can help improve mileage and save money.

    Drivers who haven’t picked out their refueling points in advance can “spend time driving extra to look for those gas stations,” wasting gas in the process, said Aixa Diaz, a spokesperson for AAA.

    Packing light can also help save on gas mileage, and bringing snacks and other necessities can limit the number of stops along the road, Diaz said.

    Have a cookout

    Rising grocery store prices are a major source of stress for Americans, especially as the cost of living increases.

    However, buying groceries is still cheaper than eating out. If you’re staying with family or renting a place for the weekend, consider a cookout instead of dining out, and try CNN’s tips for saving on food prices. Digital coupons, purchasing store brands and buying in bulk are just a few ways to cut costs at the grocery store.

    Stew Leonard Jr., president and CEO of Stew Leonard’s Grocery Stores, a chain of eight grocery stores in the Northeast, also recommends downloading your local grocer’s app to search for savings. Some apps allow customers to accrue points for rewards like free ice cream.

    Higher food prices have made grocery shopping more expensive, pushing many consumers to look for new savings. Credit: Cyndi Monaghan/Moment RF / Getty Images via CNN Newsource

    Research your beach

    Some popular beaches charge entrance and parking fees. Choosing a beach with free parking, no entrance fee, or both, might be a good option for budget-conscious sunbathing.

    Beaches in a few states, particularly in the Northeast, can also charge admission. If you plan on going multiple days to a beach that does, check if it offers week-long passes. Age is also a factor – some beaches give children or seniors discounts on admission prices, so those looking to qualify should bring their ID with them.

    For those planning to stay closer to home, find out if your city has free pools or if there are buses, shuttles or other transportation options to get to the beach. Carpooling is also a great way to split the cost of parking.

    Visit a free national park

    If the beach isn’t your thing, consider getting some fresh air in one of America’s 63 national parks.

    Check the National Park Service website to look for free parks in your area. Also, note that a government program allows any 4th graders in your family to access all national parks for free.

    Though they are operated by the government, not all national parks are free to visit, and costs vary between parks. The National Parks Service recommends looking into your park before your visit — checking for any entry fees, reservation times, and activities you might plan on doing.

    However, be warned – visitors have felt the pinch of staffing shortages at the parks in the wake of Trump administration’s layoffs at the National Park Service this year. Some visitors to national parks recently told CNN they noted a lack of educational programs offered, and had trouble picking up wilderness permits (a requirement some parks have for backpacking and overnight stays).

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  • Denver7 with Labor Day travel tips as FAA projects busiest weekend in years

    DENVER — Whether you’re traveling by car or plane this Labor Day weekend, you can expect company! The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is projecting the busiest travel weekend in 15 years.

    We’re sharing some travel tips from the experts to help your holiday weekend run smoothly.

    Denver International Airport

    429,000 passengers are expected to pass through Denver International Airport’s security checkpoints, according to airport officials.

    Denver7 spoke with airport spokesperson Michael Konopasek ahead of the rush.

    Denver7

    He said many travelers aren’t taking advantage of east security, which just opened last month.

    “But what’s kind of, I think, a cool travel hack during this Labor Day travel weekend is that East security sees some shorter lines sometimes. So if you can go over to E security, especially if you’re a pre -check customer,” Konopasek said. “We’re trying to get some of those pre-check customers going over to East security, getting them used to that new security checkpoint so they know that that’s an option as well.

    Parking at DIA

    If you plan to park at DIA, there are fewer spots than usual.

    Improvements are being made to both the West Economy Lot and West Garage, temporarily reducing the number of spots.

    Before heading to the airport, you can check availability at FlyDenver.com/parking.

    Mountain travel

    If you’re heading westbound on I-70 this weekend, AAA says it’s best to hit the road early.

    “We’ll see a lot of those folks on our roadways heading up and down I-70, up and down Highway 285,” said AAA Regional Director of Public Affairs Skyler McKinley. “Expect that kind of traffic in the traditional tourist hotspots…Vail pass, headed to Steamboat, headed to Aspen, as well as the broader Intermountain West.”

    Screenshot 2025-08-29 at 8.55.25 PM.png

    Denver7

    All construction projects will be suspended until Tuesday to limit potential backups, according to CDOT.

    You can always check for any closures or crashes by heading to CoTrip.org.

    Coloradans making a difference | Denver7 featured videos


    Denver7 is committed to making a difference in our community by standing up for what’s right, listening, lending a helping hand and following through on promises. See that work in action, in the videos above.

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  • TSA announces checked-in luggage change

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has updated its rules for checked luggage.

    According to new rules announced by the TSA on social media, cordless curling irons, flat irons, and hair straighteners that use lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal, or gas/butane fuel are now prohibited from checked luggage, though some of the items may be allowed in carry-on bags.

    Newsweek has contacted the TSA for comment via email.

    Why It Matters

    The change directly affects millions of travelers who rely on battery-powered hair styling tools, particularly those who frequently fly for work or vacation.

    A notice of baggage inspection by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), an agency of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is displayed in Frederick, Md., on Aug. 12, 2013.

    Jon Elswick/AP

    What To Know

    Travelers packing these devices in carry-ons must use a safety cover to prevent accidental activation. Spare gas cartridges are strictly banned from all luggage.

    Wall-plugged hot tools remain allowed in checked baggage. Popular brands such as Tymo and Conair also offer cordless models that fall under the new restrictions.

    The items have been flagged by the Federal Aviation Administration for having potentially hazardous materials, according to a report from TheStreet.

    “Any cordless curling irons containing gas cartridges (butane) discovered in a checked bag will be removed and turned over to the airline as a HAZMAT item,” the TSA said on X.

    This policy change comes a couple of months after the TSA’s July 8, 2025, decision to end the requirement for passengers to remove their shoes during security screenings.

    The TSA said the policy change will increase hospitality for travelers and streamline the TSA security checkpoint process, leading to lower wait times.

    “Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

    “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience. As always, security remains our top priority. Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multilayered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards. This initiative is just one of many the Trump administration is pursuing to usher in the President’s vision for a new Golden Age of American travel.”

    Since Trump’s second term began, the Department of Homeland Security has made a series of moves aimed at streamlining airport security.

    On July 2, TSA launched its “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program, offering uniformed service members and their families benefits such as discounted TSA PreCheck enrollment and access to expedited security lanes at select airports. Earlier in May, the agency began enforcing REAL ID at checkpoints, achieving a 94 percent compliance rate and helping to speed up the security screening process.

    What People Are Saying

    Daniel Velez, the spokesperson for Florida’s TSA, told the Florida Times-Union: “Bottom line … If these items can catch fire in the cargo area where checked bags are transported, there’s no one there to put it out. That’s why they’re only allowed in carry-on bags.”

    What Happens Next

    The changes will come into effect immediately.

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  • By the numbers: Houston airports breaking records all year, 1.9M people to fly this holiday week

    By the numbers: Houston airports breaking records all year, 1.9M people to fly this holiday week

    HOUSTON – Houston’s airports are on pace for a year that will go down in the record books.

    This upcoming week, our airports are anticipating nearly 2 million passengers at William P. Hobby and George Bush Intercontinental Airports between June 29 and July 8.

    According to stats, this represents an 8% increase from 2023.

    “This is going to exceed Memorial Day, which we set the history record for United Airlines here in Houston,” said Peggy Slay, a customer service manager at United Airlines. “We expect to handle about 50,000 people a day.”

    The travel surge comes on the heels of an already record-breaking Spring Break and Memorial Day travel season, according to the Houston Airport Systems.

    In May, 2,816,854 people boarded nonstop or connecting flights at either Bush or Hobby airport, breaking the last record set in July 2018 with 2,794,798 passengers.

    To handle the surge in passengers this summer, particularly around those big holidays, airports and airlines are urging customers to show up three hours before a domestic flight.

    “Anticipate being here three hours before your flight time, because you never know what the TSA line is going to be,” Slay said.

    At Bush Airport, it’s all hands on deck for United Airlines.

    The airline took KPRC2′s Gage Goulding and Photojournalist Oscar Chavez for a behind-the-scenes look at how they’re managing the massive passenger count and flying 490 planes a day from Bush.

    The United Airlines Operation Center inside George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston on June 28, 2024. (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)

    Inside of Bush Airport, the United Airlines Operations Center is constantly watching the weather, monitoring flights and making adjustments to ensure the smoothest operation they can, while maximizing the efficiency for their airplanes.

    Meanwhile, out on the ramp crews are battling the sweltering summer heat to load and unload luggage from airplanes, bring in fresh water, pump out the bathrooms and keep the airplanes full of fuel.

    All of this is done while crews inside prep each plane for the next group of passengers.

    United Airlines employees load luggage into the belly of an airplane at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston on June 28, 2024. (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)

    Speaking of passengers, United Airlines is making room for even more people to fly on their planes, without adding any flights or routes to their already incredibly packed schedule.

    This is called “upgauging.” In simple terms, United is opting to fly bigger planes with more seats this summer to handle the surge in customers.

    “We increase the passenger numbers by putting larger aircraft on routes that demand additional seats to get people there, so we can accommodate as many people as we can,” Slay said. “Same number of aircraft, but more seats get a lot more people out of here.”

    United Airlines explains why airplane size helps drive up passenger records:

    • United Airlines is the largest airline in Houston, currently flying 490 daily flights out of Bush Airport, including 56 international destinations (including Latin America, Canada, Europe and Asia), averaging about 55,000 customers served a day.

    • As part of the United Next growth plan, an enterprise-wide investment in fleet, network, airports and customer experience, over the next decade United intends to introduce more than 800 narrow and wide-body aircraft to its fleet and expand its global network to reach new points on the map. With that growth plan underway, United is utilizing larger gauge aircrafts for domestic and international routes. United is phasing out its 50 seat aircrafts and utilizing 75 seat aircrafts. This transition allows for the use of more mainline aircraft and ultimately offer 12% more seats per departure compared to last year.
    • United Airlines expects this Independence Day weekend to be its busiest on record with more than 5 million passengers forecasted to fly United – airline wide – between June 28 and July 8, up more than 7% compared to last year.

    Houston isn’t the only city seeing record passenger numbers.

    According to data from the TSA, the top five busiest days ever have all been in 2024.

    Nine of the top ten busiest days ever recorded are now post-pandemic travel days, a sure sign that travelers are ready to set into the sky once again.

    “They’re ready and it’s time,” said Ashley Kelsey, who’s flying home to North Carolina. “We’re good. Let’s start traveling.”

    In order to get to your destination, both United Airlines and the Houston Airports System is encouraging all travelers to arrive at least three hours before their flights.

    “We don’t want you missing the cruises. We don’t want you missing the dinner dates, any of that,” Slay said.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Gage Goulding, Oscar Chavez, Brittany Taylor

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  • Travelers brace for busy Easter holiday weekend

    Travelers brace for busy Easter holiday weekend

    RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Rerouting a flight was not part of Chrishana Wilson’s initial itinerary.

    “It was pretty bad. We got here around 7:00, and then we had to stand in line for two hours, and now we’re not going to get to our destination until almost midnight, and we should’ve gotten there around noon,” said Wilson.

    The travel snafu has meant missing one event this evening and has Wilson second-guessing traveling during spring break in the future.

    According to FlightAware, there were 44 total delays at RDU Friday (as of 4:30 PM), split between 23 departures and 21 arrivals, though no cancellations. While passenger counts picked up in mid-afternoon, check-in and baggage claim lines at Terminal 2 remained fairly short, with TSA moving swiftly.

    “I’d love to be going to Cancun, Mexico but we’re going to Phoenix, Arizona instead. And it’s not crazy at the airport actually. Surprisingly we thought these lines would be insane, but they’re actually very tolerable, and all the people are super helpful. Most helpful, wonderful people in North Carolina. This airport is amazing,” said Todd Cohen.

    Travelers visiting the Triangle shared their holiday weekend plans.

    “We are looking forward to Sunday going to church for that Resurrection Sunday. Saturday, we’ll go on and have some fun and then have a family dinner together,” said Theo Nartey, who traveled from Ghana to Maryland to meet with his daughter, before heading down with her today to see more family.

    “We can spend time together and create memories,” added his daughter Kejiah.

    ALSO SEE:Durham Rescue Mission hosts its annual Easter meal and celebration

    Keshia Halls and her son Jedidiah are traveling from New York for a family birthday and Easter celebrations.

    “It’s important to spend time with your loved ones while they’re here. So we’re just celebrating life, celebrating our family, getting together, playing games, enjoying catching up, because we don’t always get to do that, especially being in New York with the hustle and bustle, you know, coming down here to a more family-oriented place, it’s good to just talk about and catch up with our family,” said Keshia.

    “I want to play with my cousins, and eat birthday cake with Papa,” said Jedidiah.

    At the airport, on-site parking remains largely available. While Economy 3 is full, there is limited space at RDU Premier and RDU Central, with plenty of spots at RDU Express and Economy 4. Travelers can book parking online 24 hours in advance.

    There will also be a terminal change coming out of the holiday weekend, with Breeze Airways utilizing Terminal 1 beginning Tuesday, April 2.

    For those hitting the roads, AAA reports gas prices are up about 10 cents from a month ago, though fairly flat compared to a year ago. Drivers can typically get cheaper rates in the Sandhills region while paying more as they travel northward.

    “You can expect traffic. I would say give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. We know that people are going to be traveling to our area beaches, are going to be going to the mountains. When we’re talking about domestically within the United States, the top destination always is Orlando. People want to go see Mickey,” said Tiffany Wright, Director of Public Affairs for AAA – The Auto Club Group.

    While AAA does not release a travel forecast for the Easter holiday, Wright said based on patterns during the spring break stretch, they are anticipating a busy Memorial Day weekend.

    “Travel has just bounced back in such a big way, not even just domestically, but international travel. We look at the bookings. People aren’t just traveling in the United States. They’re going abroad. Cruises have bounced back in a big way. People are looking to travel and they want to do so with grandma and grandpa,” Wright shared. “We’re seeing a lot of multigenerational travel. People want to do so with the entire family, and cruising is one way that you can do that. There’s something for everyone.”

    Copyright © 2024 WTVD-TV. All Rights Reserved.

    Michael Perchick

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  • Holiday Travel Was Chaotic — One Startup is Fixing the Airport Madness With Software & Autonomy

    Holiday Travel Was Chaotic — One Startup is Fixing the Airport Madness With Software & Autonomy

    Press Release


    Feb 14, 2023 06:00 PST

    Moonware, a venture-backed California startup, is solving some of the biggest challenges in air travel. With recent news of significant delays due to IT failures and air traffic control issues, Moonware’s technology aims to improve efficiency and reliability in commercial and cargo aviation with intelligent airport systems.

    Holiday travel is near pre-pandemic levels, but that has brought a host of new challenges. This year, airlines left thousands of passengers stranded or with missing bags, and thousands of flights were canceled, delayed or diverted. A Christmas blizzard that affected airlines across North America has highlighted the fact that many stakeholders have been slow to invest in upgrading their IT systems, where archaic tools like walkie-talkies and paper are still prevalent.

    Moonware comes into the picture at a challenging time for air travel. The company is developing an “airside OS,” HALO, which coordinates the ground crew and equipment responsible for servicing aircraft with tasks such as baggage loading, fueling, cleaning, catering, and more. Optimizing these ground operations helps carriers reduce delays and turnaround times while increasing aircraft utility.

    Weather-related issues affect the scheduling of staff needed to operate flights, ranging from pilots and cabin crew to ramp agents and ground handlers who are responsible for servicing aircraft. Moonware’s HALO app “Uber-izes” airport ground logistics, pairing ramp agents with flights through an automated system, which also uses smart routing to help ground crews navigate across the tarmac. Efficiently allocating people and vehicles across the airfield saves time and fuel, cutting emissions and costs.

    Real-time data is key in the system’s ability to redistribute staff and assets during last-minute schedule changes, which is absent in existing operations. Today’s legacy scheduling tools lack built-in redundancies for unscheduled changes and setbacks. Systems that account for the complexities in operational disturbances, regardless of weather, seem to be needed more than ever. “Our technology has the potential to revolutionize the way aircraft are serviced and turnarounds are handled, resulting in a more efficient and sustainable airport experience,” says CEO Javier Vidal.

    Antiquated scheduling tools were greatly responsible for propagating the effects of the Christmas blizzard, where Moonware is modernizing the ground operations portion of the puzzle. But the company’s plans don’t stop there.

    Beyond software, part of the company’s roadmap includes deploying autonomous and electric ground support equipment (GSE) to augment “last-mile” airside tasks. “The biggest advantage of deploying autonomous vehicles in an airport is the controlled environment of operation. When compared to public roads, airfields are simpler to map, where markings on the tarmac and a myriad of signs can serve as built-in navigational cues,” says CTO Saunon Malekshahi.

    Moonware is currently working with industry leaders to bring its technology to market, with plans to start testing HALO in the coming months. Its mission is to enable what the company calls the “next-generation of aerial mobility,” with automated and sustainable airfields.

    Source: Moonware

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  • Thanksgiving travel rush is back with some new habits

    Thanksgiving travel rush is back with some new habits

    The Thanksgiving travel rush was back on this year, as people caught planes in numbers not seen in years, setting aside inflation concerns to reunite with loved ones and enjoy some normalcy after two holiday seasons marked by COVID-19 restrictions.

    Changing habits around work and play, however, might spread out the crowds and reduce the usual amount of holiday travel stress. Experts say many people will start holiday trips early or return home later than normal because they will spend a few days working remotely — or at least tell the boss they’re working remotely.

    The busiest travel days during Thanksgiving week are usually Tuesday, Wednesday and the Sunday after the holiday. This year, the Federal Aviation Administration expects Tuesday to be the busiest travel day with roughly 48,000 scheduled flights.

    Chris Williams, of Raleigh, North Carolina, flew Tuesday morning with his wife and two kids to Atlanta, Georgia, to spend the holiday with extended family.

    “Of course it’s a stressful and expensive time to fly,” said Williams, 44, who works in finance. “But after a couple years of not getting to spend Thanksgiving with our extended family, I’d say we’re feeling thankful that the world’s gotten to a safe enough place where we can be with loved ones again.”

    Although Williams said the family’s budget has been tight this year, he’s capitalized on the opportunity to teach his kids some personal finance basics. His youngest, 11, has been learning how to budget her allowance money since March and is excited to buy small gifts for her friends on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. “Probably slime,” she said, “with glitter.”

    The Transportation Security Administration screened more than 2.6 million travelers on Monday, surpassing the 2.5 million screened the Monday before Thanksgiving in 2019. The same trend occurred Sunday, marking the first year that the number of people catching planes on Thanksgiving week surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

    “People are traveling on different days. Not everyone is traveling on that Wednesday night,” says Sharon Pinkerton, senior vice president at the trade group Airlines for America. “People are spreading their travel out throughout the week, which I also think will help ensure smoother operations.”

    AAA predicts that 54.6 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home in the U.S. this week, a 1.5% bump over Thanksgiving last year and only 2% less than in 2019. The auto club and insurance seller says nearly 49 million of those will travel by car, and 4.5 million will fly between Wednesday and Sunday.

    U.S. airlines struggled to keep up as the number of passengers surged this year.

    “We did have a challenging summer,” said Pinkerton, whose group speaks for members including American, United and Delta. She said that airlines have pared their schedules and hired thousands of workers — they now have more pilots than before the pandemic. “As a result, we’re confident that the week is going to go well.”

    U.S. airlines plan to operate 13% fewer flights this week than during Thanksgiving week in 2019. However, by using larger planes on average, the number of seats will drop only 2%, according to data from travel-researcher Cirium.

    Airlines continue to blame flight disruptions on shortages of air traffic controllers, especially in Florida, a major holiday destination.

    Controllers, who work for the Federal Aviation Administration, “get tested around the holidays. That seems to be when we have challenges,” Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle said a few days ago. “The FAA is adding another 10% to headcount, hopefully that’s enough.”

    Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has disputed such claims, saying that the vast majority of delays and cancellations are caused by the airlines themselves.

    TSA expects airports to be busier than last year and probably about on par with 2019. The busiest day in TSA’s history came on the Sunday after Thanksgiving in 2019, when nearly 2.9 million people were screened at airport checkpoints.

    Stephanie Escutia, traveling with four children, her husband and her mother, said it took the family four hours to get through checking and security at the Orlando airport early Tuesday. The family was returning to Kansas City in time for Thanksgiving after a birthday trip to Disney World.

    “We were surprised at how full the park was,” said Escutia, 32. “We thought it might be down some but it was packed.”

    She welcomed the sense of normalcy, and said her family would be gathering for Thanksgiving without worrying about keeping their distance this year. “Now we are back to normal and looking forward to a nice holiday,” she said.

    People getting behind the wheel or boarding a plane don’t seem fazed by higher gasoline and airfare prices than last year or the widespread concern about inflation and the economy. That is already leading to predictions of strong travel over Christmas and New Year’s.

    “This pent-up demand for travel is still a real thing. It doesn’t feel like it’s going away,” says Tom Hall, a vice president and longtime writer for Lonely Planet, the publisher of travel guides. “That’s keeping planes full, that’s keeping prices high.”

    ___

    Associated Press writers Hannah Schoenbaum in Raleigh, North Carolina, Margaret Stafford in Kansas City and AP video journalist Terence Chea in Oakland, California contributed to this report.

    ___

    David Koenig can be reached at twitter.com/airlinewriter

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  • Thanksgiving travel rush is back with some new habits

    Thanksgiving travel rush is back with some new habits

    The Thanksgiving travel rush was back on this year, as people caught planes in numbers not seen in years, setting aside inflation concerns to reunite with loved ones and enjoy some normalcy after two holiday seasons marked by COVID-19 restrictions.

    Changing habits around work and play, however, might spread out the crowds and reduce the usual amount of holiday travel stress. Experts say many people will start holiday trips early or return home later than normal because they will spend a few days working remotely — or at least tell the boss they’re working remotely.

    The busiest travel days during Thanksgiving week are usually Tuesday, Wednesday and the Sunday after the holiday. This year, the Federal Aviation Administration expects Tuesday to be the busiest travel day with roughly 48,000 scheduled flights.

    Chris Williams, of Raleigh, North Carolina, flew Tuesday morning with his wife and two kids to Atlanta, Georgia, to spend the holiday with extended family.

    “Of course it’s a stressful and expensive time to fly,” said Williams, 44, who works in finance. “But after a couple years of not getting to spend Thanksgiving with our extended family, I’d say we’re feeling thankful that the world’s gotten to a safe enough place where we can be with loved ones again.”

    Although Williams said the family’s budget has been tight this year, he’s capitalized on the opportunity to teach his kids some personal finance basics. His youngest, 11, has been learning how to budget her allowance money since March and is excited to buy small gifts for her friends on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. “Probably slime,” she said, “with glitter.”

    The Transportation Security Administration screened nearly 2.3 million travelers on Tuesday, down from more than 2.4 million screened the Tuesday before Thanksgiving in 2019. On Monday, the numbers were up versus 2019 — more than 2.6 million travelers compared with 2.5 million. That same trend occurred Sunday, marking the first year that the number of people catching planes on Thanksgiving week surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

    “People are traveling on different days. Not everyone is traveling on that Wednesday night,” says Sharon Pinkerton, senior vice president at the trade group Airlines for America. “People are spreading their travel out throughout the week, which I also think will help ensure smoother operations.”

    AAA predicts that 54.6 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home in the U.S. this week, a 1.5% bump over Thanksgiving last year and only 2% less than in 2019. The auto club and insurance seller says nearly 49 million of those will travel by car, and 4.5 million will fly between Wednesday and Sunday.

    U.S. airlines struggled to keep up as the number of passengers surged this year.

    “We did have a challenging summer,” said Pinkerton, whose group speaks for members including American, United and Delta. She said that airlines have pared their schedules and hired thousands of workers — they now have more pilots than before the pandemic. “As a result, we’re confident that the week is going to go well.”

    U.S. airlines plan to operate 13% fewer flights this week than during Thanksgiving week in 2019. However, by using larger planes on average, the number of seats will drop only 2%, according to data from travel-researcher Cirium.

    Airlines continue to blame flight disruptions on shortages of air traffic controllers, especially in Florida, a major holiday destination.

    Controllers, who work for the Federal Aviation Administration, “get tested around the holidays. That seems to be when we have challenges,” Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle said a few days ago. “The FAA is adding another 10% to headcount, hopefully that’s enough.”

    Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has disputed such claims, saying that the vast majority of delays and cancellations are caused by the airlines themselves.

    TSA expects airports to be busier than last year and probably about on par with 2019. The busiest day in TSA’s history came on the Sunday after Thanksgiving in 2019, when nearly 2.9 million people were screened at airport checkpoints.

    Stephanie Escutia, traveling with four children, her husband and her mother, said it took the family four hours to get through checking and security at the Orlando airport early Tuesday. The family was returning to Kansas City in time for Thanksgiving after a birthday trip to Disney World.

    “We were surprised at how full the park was,” said Escutia, 32. “We thought it might be down some but it was packed.”

    She welcomed the sense of normalcy, and said her family would be gathering for Thanksgiving without worrying about keeping their distance this year. “Now we are back to normal and looking forward to a nice holiday,” she said.

    People getting behind the wheel or boarding a plane don’t seem fazed by higher gasoline and airfare prices than last year or the widespread concern about inflation and the economy. That is already leading to predictions of strong travel over Christmas and New Year’s.

    “This pent-up demand for travel is still a real thing. It doesn’t feel like it’s going away,” says Tom Hall, a vice president and longtime writer for Lonely Planet, the publisher of travel guides. “That’s keeping planes full, that’s keeping prices high.”

    ___

    Associated Press writers Hannah Schoenbaum in Raleigh, North Carolina, Margaret Stafford in Kansas City and AP video journalist Terence Chea in Oakland, California contributed to this report.

    ___

    David Koenig can be reached at twitter.com/airlinewriter

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  • High-flying balloon characters star in Thanksgiving parade

    High-flying balloon characters star in Thanksgiving parade

    NEW YORK — Throngs of spectators lined the streets of New York on Thursday as colorful, high-flying balloons helped usher in the holiday season during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

    The annual tradition, which dates back nearly a century, packed streets as a procession of giant inflatables and floats streamed for more than 40 blocks from Central Park to Herald Square.

    Children balanced atop metal barricades and hung from scaffolding to watch the balloons amid mostly sunny skies and a slight breeze.

    “Blue, Blue. There’s Blue,” yelled Divyam Kumar, 6, as his father helped balance him and his 4-year-old brother Aanu Aryan on a metal rail.

    The youngster was referring to the star of the animated show “Blue’s Clues” — not to be confused with the international cartoon sensation Bluey, an Australian cattle pup making her parade debut.

    Bluey’s balloon towered as tall as a four-story building and stretched as wide as seven taxi cabs.

    Stuart, the one-eyed Minion, was also there to thrill the crowd.

    But it was Snoopy that especially caught the eye of Brenner Chenenko, 8, even more so than the more contemporary pups.

    “It’s one of the classics,” said the youngster from Rochester, New York, who lined the parade route with his father Nate and grandfather John Wopperer.

    It was the first time the father and son had seen the parade in person. Wopperer last saw a parade live three years ago, before the pandemic sidelined the event for a year.

    Snoopy, dressed as an astronaut, was followed by another old-time favorite, Papa Smurf.

    This year’s parade featured 16 giant balloons, 28 floats, 40 novelty and heritage inflatables, 12 marching bands, 10 performance groups, 700 clowns and one Santa Claus.

    The procession of characters were joined by singer Paula Abdul, in her first parade appearance; indie pop band Fitz and the Tantrums; boy band Big Time Rush; “Blue’s Clues & You!” host Josh Dela Cruz; singer Gloria Estefan; gospel singer Kirk Franklin; actor Mario Lopez; reggae star Ziggy Marley; and Miss America 2022 Emma Broyles.

    Singers Joss Stone, Jordin Sparks and Betty Who were also part of the festivities, as were the stars of Peacock’s “Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin” — Adam Devine, Sarah Hyland and Flula Borg. Jimmy Fallon & The Roots were on a float celebrating Central Park.

    President Biden and Jill Biden called into the parade, as he did last year. Biden thanked firefighters, police officers and first responders, saying, “They never take a break.”

    They thanked the troops and Biden said he would be reaching out to speak to some today.

    Asked about their plans for the day in Nantucket, Massachusetts, the Bidens said it would involve family, and some time spent locally, thanking first responders.

    ———

    Associated Press reporter Deepti Hajela contributed to this story.

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  • History Made Over Sydney’s Magnificent Harbour

    History Made Over Sydney’s Magnificent Harbour

    Paramount+ Illuminates Sydney Harbour With The Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Ever Drone Light Show at Vivid Sydney

    Press Release


    May 29, 2022

    With 600 drones, history was made last night (AEST) over Sydney’s magnificent Harbour.

    For one night only, Paramount+ partnered with Vivid Sydney 2022 to dazzle audiences with the largest drone and light show ever seen in the Southern Hemisphere. Vivid Sydney is the annual festival of Light, Music and Ideas that will transform Sydney into a fusion of creativity, innovation and technology from Friday 27 May to Saturday 18 June.

    With the help of SKYMAGIC, Paramount+ transformed the wintery evening sky into a sprawling canvas, as a fleet of 600 perfectly choreographed LED-equipped drones shape shifted and synchronised into enormous 3D images and sequences, illustrating some of the premier streaming service’s most iconic stars and scenes.

    Illuminating the Sydney skyline, the drones painted quintessential scenes and objects including a Mission Impossible countdown clock, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ U.S.S Enterprise, SpongeBob SquarePants himself, HALO‘s Master Chief and Cortana’s voiceover, PAW Patrol‘s Chase, Top Gun‘s fighter jet, South Park‘s orange-clad Kenny, and the brand-new logo for the highly anticipated, crime-fighting local production, NCIS: Sydney.

    Wondering what it takes to create the biggest drone show in the Southern Hemisphere? Keep an eye out on our Paramount+ social media channels to find out.

    For more information and to purchase tickets to Vivid Sydney events go to www.vividsydney.com  

    Join the conversation:  

    www.ParamountPlus.com.au

    @ParamountPlusAU 

    www.vividsydney.com

    @vividsydney #vividsydney

    Media contacts:

    Karina Jurisic –  Senior Publicist

    kjurisic@networkten.com.au

    M: +61 421 576 794

    Wayne Mitcham – Destination NSW

    wayne@amio.nz 

    M: +64 21 499 550

    Source: Vivid Sydney

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  • Family Rentals Provides Holiday Traveling Rental Items

    Family Rentals Provides Holiday Traveling Rental Items

    South Florida-Based Rental Company Carries All Types of Necessary Travel Rental Equipment

    Press Release


    Sep 15, 2016

    ​​Family Rentals, one of South Florida’s leading rental companies, is consistently adding items to their roster of rentals. The company has all types of necessary travel rental equipment from baby equipment rentals, medical equipment rentals, bicycle rentals, beach equipment rentals, and more.

    Holiday season is quickly approaching and there is no better time to think about travel rental needs than now. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, be sure to have adequate beds, linens, extra seating, and medical equipment for guests.

    “We are a leader in South Florida for all of your rental item needs. Family Rentals offers only quality products, prompt delivery, and professional service throughout South Florida.”

    Mike Merlo, Owner

    “We are a leader in South Florida for all of your rental item needs. Family Rentals offers only quality products, prompt delivery, and professional service throughout South Florida,” said Mike Merlo, Owner at Family Rentals.

    The company offers thousands of items for rent including supplies for Christmas parties, furniture for extra guests this Hanukkah, bicycles for family outings this winter vacation, and mobility scooters for cruises. Guests will feel right at home this holiday season with Family Rentals’ selection of rental and sales equipment.

    To view all that the company has for rent, browse through their extensive website, call one of their specialist, or drop by the warehouse.

    About Family Rentals

    Family Rentals is the leader in South Florida for all of your rental item needs. Family Rentals offers only quality products, prompt delivery and professional service to all points in South Florida. Our on-staff event planners can coordinate any size event no matter how large or small. We are fully insured and accredited by the State of Florida. Our rental delivery service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. All rental items are cleaned and sterilized by our full housekeeping staff. We are family-owned and operated for nearly 20 years and well known through our large network of business partners.

    For additional information on Family Rentals, please visit https://familyrentals.com/, speak to a specialist at 561-279-9355, or send an email to info(at)familyrentals.com. Family Rentals proudly serves Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

    ###

    Source: Family Rentals

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