Boeing mounted a vociferous defense of its 777 and 787 Dreamliner wide-body programs Monday, days after a whistleblower alleged that the plane-maker had taken manufacturing shortcuts that introduced potential structural flaws to both aircraft types.
On Monday, Boeing held an unusual media briefing from its Dreamliner assembly plant in North Charleston, South Carolina, where it detailed the specifics of how it assembles the 787 from several parts that are built and delivered disassembled, such as the fuselage, wings and tail section, and the structural testing each component undergoes.
In refuting the allegations and characterizations presented by the whistleblower, Boeing offered a sharp contrast from the conciliatory and concessional tone it’s presented this year through the ongoing 737 MAX crisis, which ultimately led to the ousting of the company’s CEO.
The whistleblower, a Boeing engineer named Sam Salehpour, alleged last week that hundreds of 787 and 777 jets were at risk of structural failure from damage caused by fatigue. The allegations were detailed in The Seattle Times.
He also said that he was harassed by Boeing as a result.
Salehpour’s 787 allegations surrounded tiny gaps between fuselage sections that remain after Boeing joined them together.
The spaces were first discovered in 2020, which led Boeing to halt deliveries of the long-haul jet for nearly two years. The Federal Aviation Administration investigated Boeing’s manufacturing program and approved a fix, and currently inspects each individual 787 before approving it for delivery to an airline customer.
Salehpour alleged, however, that the problem was not actually fixed, and that Boeing used excessive force to push the pieces together, making it appear as if the gaps were gone, rather than using small pieces of filler material to fill them — a practice known as “shimming.”
Part of the assembly line at Boeing’s Charleston 787 assembly plant in December, 2022. DAVID SLOTNICK/THE POINTS GUY
Shimming is used to fill gaps larger than five-thousandths of an inch, which prevents pieces from moving around during flight and bearing excess stress.
On the 777, Salehpour alleged that fuselage panels were delivered from a vendor that did not fit properly, and said that factory workers jumped on pieces of the fuselage to jam them into place, potentially deforming them. He claimed that he was moved to the 777 program as retaliation after raising concerns about the 787.
Boeing last week was quick to refute Salehpour’s claims by arguing that all of its 787s meet specifications required for certification.
“These claims about the structural integrity of the 787 are inaccurate and do not represent the comprehensive work Boeing has done to ensure the quality and long-term safety of the aircraft,” Boeing said in a statement last week provided to TPG. “The issues raised have been subject to rigorous engineering examination under FAA oversight. This analysis has validated that these issues do not present any safety concerns and the aircraft will maintain its service life over several decades.”
On Monday, Boeing engineers outlined the production process in specifics, including the stress testing that it says proves everything on the 787 is within its specified parameters.
“Extensive design analysis and testing that validates all of the decisions we’ve made,” said Steve Chisholm, a vice president and functional chief engineer of mechanical and structural engineering at Boeing.
Chisholm also said that Boeing encourages employees to speak up about problems or concerns they observe, and said that such reporting is key to the company’s safety processes.
“Having the voices of our employees heard is of utmost importance,” he said. “We do believe this makes us stronger. And it’s something we’ve really been leveraging and emphasizing.”
Part of the assembly line at Boeing’s Charleston 787 assembly plant in December, 2022. DAVID SLOTNICK/THE POINTS GUY
In addition to an ethics hotline, Boeing employees can use a system called “Speak Up” to report issues anonymously, Lisa Fahl, a Boeing vice president of airplane programs engineering, said Monday.
“You have full visibility to the FAA, and that’s a system where we go through and we do an investigation and an evaluation must be performed and documented to support anything that’s brought forward,” she said.
The FAA is investigating Salehpour’s claims, according to The New York Times.
In response to questions from TPG, an FAA spokesperson said that the agency continued to enforce its prescribed fixes for the shimming issue, which includes issuing ongoing Airworthiness Directives (ADs) regarding inspection and repairs, along with inspecting all newly built aircraft before they are delivered.
“Every aircraft flying is in compliance with the ADs. Boeing has either completed or is working on long-term corrective actions. The FAA continues to issue Airworthiness Certificates for every Boeing 787 before they enter service.”
An FAA spokesperson also noted that Boeing investigates all whistleblower reports.
“Voluntary reporting without fear of reprisal is a critical component in aviation safety,” the spokesperson said. “We strongly encourage everyone in the aviation industry to share information.”
Whether you’re fascinated by American history, culture and cuisine, or you’ve enjoyed river cruising in Europe but are now looking to explore closer to home, U.S. river cruises are an easy and enjoyable vacation option.
Choose from two main waterways for your U.S. river cruise: the Mississippi River — which flows through nine states from St. Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans — or the Columbia and Snake rivers in Oregon and Washington. Some cruise lines also venture onto three smaller, lesser-known rivers: the Ohio, the Cumberland and the Tennessee. You can also explore New York’s Hudson River on a fall foliage cruise.
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Your choice of cruise line is equally limited. Just two companies offer multiple itineraries on U.S. rivers. American Cruise Line sails all the waterways mentioned above, while Viking offers itineraries solely on the Mississippi. Additionally, Lindblad Expeditions has introduced a food-and-wine-centric river cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers.
Read on for our picks of the seven best U.S. river cruises. They range from seven to 15 nights and visit destinations in 16 states; itineraries take you through the colonial-heritage-rich Northeast, America’s agricultural heartland and the pioneer routes of the Pacific Northwest.
American Cruise Lines’ 8-night Music Cities Cruise
AMERICAN CRUISE LINES
From Memphis blues and Elvis Presley’s “Blue Suede Shoes” to Kentucky bluegrass and New Orleans jazz, American Cruise Lines’ eight-night Music Cities Cruise sails you through a chronology of the U.S. music scene. You’ll traverse three rivers (the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland) en route from Memphis to Nashville, or vice versa.
In Tennessee’s two famous music cities, you’ll have a chance to visit Elvis Presley’s Graceland, stroll blues club-lined Beale Street and check out the Grand Ole Opry. You’ll also visit Paducah, Kentucky, and Dover and Clarksville in Tennessee, where experiences include whiskey and bourbon tasting, tours of landmark art murals and, of course, Civil War history.
While cruising, you’ll enjoy nightly entertainment that celebrates the region’s musical heritage. American Cruise Lines offers this itinerary on four ships from April to October 2024, 2025 and 2026. Three of the ships — American Melody, American Symphony and American Serenade — are 180-passenger modern river ships launched in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The fourth, American Splendor, is a 180-passenger paddlewheeler that debuted in 2016.
Want the total Mississippi experience? You can cruise the entire length of this mighty river as you visit 14 cities in seven U.S. states on Viking’s two-week sailing.
Available three times a year (in July, September and October), the America’s Great River cruise begins in Minnesota (either St. Paul or Red Wing) and concludes in New Orleans, allowing you to experience an intricate tapestry of American history and culture.
There’s eagle spotting in Red Wing and agricultural innovation in Quad Cities, Iowa. You’ll enjoy Mark Twain lore in Hannibal, Missouri, and architectural landmarks, such as the soaring Gateway Arch, in St. Louis. As you cruise the lower Mississippi, you’ll delve into civil rights history in Memphis; Civil War battles and historic architecture in Mississippi’s Vicksburg and Natchez; Cajun and Creole music in Baton Rouge; and the legendary culinary treats and jazz of New Orleans.
All sailings are aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Launched in 2022, it’s currently the largest river ship in the U.S. and features three restaurants and an aft infinity pool.
American Cruise Lines’ 8-Night Columbia & Snake River Cruise
AMERICAN CRUISE LINES
If your vacation preferences favor mountain landscapes, wine tasting and pioneer lore, consider American Cruise Lines’ eight-night Columbia & Snake River Cruise. You’ll explore the Pacific Northwest from Portland, Oregon, to Clarkstown, Washington (or vice versa).
On the Pacific end of your voyage, you’ll visit Astoria, Oregon — the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. This coastal city at the mouth of the Columbia River is known for its Victorian homes, wineries, brew pubs, and Lewis and Clark heritage. Next, from Kalama, Washington, you can join an excursion to visit the remnants of the area around Mount St. Helens, which suffered a devastating eruption in 1980.
In The Dalles, you can enjoy a sommelier-led tasting of Columbia Valley wines, visit Multnomah Falls or get adventurous on a river kayak tour. During a call on Richland, Washington, you can admire the scenic beauty around the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers at Sacajawea State Park. More wine tasting or outdoor adventure awaits on the way to Clarkstown.
American Cruise Line offers this itinerary on five ships from April to October 2024, 2025 and 2026. Three of the ships (American Song, American Jazz and American Harmony) are 180-passenger modern river ships launched from 2018 to 2020. American Pride is a 150-passenger paddlewheeler launched in 2012, and American West is a 110-passenger veteran paddlewheeler launched in 1995.
If you’ve never visited New Orleans, or it’s been a while, take a Mississippi River cruise that sails round-trip from the Big Easy. They offer time before or after the cruise to enjoy the city’s food, music and iconic architecture — plus the ease of a round-trip flight booking. Viking’s seven-night New Orleans & Southern Charms itinerary focuses solely on ports in Louisiana and Mississippi, with an emphasis on historic architecture, Cajun culture and Civil War landmarks.
From Darrow, Louisiana, you’ll stroll beneath canopies of towering live oak trees to visit historic mansions or glide through the bayou. More historic architecture, along with bird-watching, awaits in St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi. Vicksburg, Mississippi, is home to one of the Civil War’s most famous battlefields. Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s capital, has something to satisfy every interest, from Cajun cuisine to tours of the restored World War II-era USS Kidd.
The cruise, which is available in November and December 2024 and January, November and December 2025, ends with a full day of exploration back in New Orleans before one last night aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi.
American Cruise Lines’ 7-night Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise
RUDY SULGAN/GETTY IMAGES
Not only is the autumnal landscape in New York’s Hudson Valley visually captivating, but the small cities and towns that line the river’s shores are filled with fascinating early American history dating back more than 400 years.
Cruise the Hudson round-trip from New York City on American Cruise Lines’ seven-night Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise. You’ll visit Catskill, home to the Hudson River School Art Trail and the Olana Historic Site, or explore more actively at the Hudson River Skywalk and Kaaterskill Falls. In Albany, founded in 1609, you can tour the newly renovated New York State Capitol building, built in the late 1800s; you can also visit the New York State Museum, which dates to 1836. Feel like apple-picking? That’s an option here, too.
Next, during a call at Kingston/Hyde Park, you can tour the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, home to the 32nd U.S. president’s library and museum. You can also head to the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, featuring an American Beaux-Arts mansion completed in 1899. The United States Military Academy at West Point, founded in 1802, is also on the itinerary, as is Sleepy Hollow. The Sleepy Hollow legend comes to life during a tour of the local cemetery where author Washington Irving is buried. Back in the Big Apple on day seven, you’ll have time to explore before saying farewell to your ship.
Sailings are available from late September to early November 2024, 2025 and 2026. Sailings are onboard either the 100-passenger American Eagle, American Liberty, American Glory or American Legend (all built in 2023 or 2024), or the older 90-passenger American Star and American Independence, launched in 2007 and 2010, respectively.
Lindblad Expeditions’ 7-night Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine and History Cruise
DAVID VARGAS/EXPEDITIONS
Nature-focused cruise line Lindblad Expeditions has partnered with Food & Wine magazine to offer a new seven-night Columbia & Snake Rivers: Food, Wine and History cruise on multiple dates in April, September and October 2024; there are also sailings in March, April, September and October 2025. The voyages will sail between Portland, Oregon, and Clarkston, Washington.
Complementing the itinerary will be gourmet Pacific Northwest cuisine and more than 40 regional wines curated by an onboard culinary team. All ingredients will be sourced from within 250 miles of the ship’s route. A naturalist, historian and geologist will be on hand to guide you on excursions by foot, kayak, Zodiac and jet boat.
Off-ship experiences include sampling local beer and oysters in Astoria, Oregon; visiting Multnomah Falls or hiking Beacon Rock; and having a private vineyard visit and downtown wine walk in Walla Walla, Washington.
These sailings occur on two identical Lindblad ships: the 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird.
American Cruise Line’s 15-night Grand Ohio River Cruise
AMERICAN CRUISE LINES
Did you know that you can cruise from Pittsburgh to St. Louis? If exploring the central U.S. — Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri — without driving is appealing, consider the 15-night Grand Ohio River Cruise offered by American Cruise Lines. You’ll enjoy regionally inspired dining and eclectic landmarks along the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as you sail.
Over two weeks, you’ll visit Native American burial grounds and archeological sites in West Virginia and learn about the underground railroad in Ohio. You can taste bourbon and explore the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory or the Kentucky Derby Museum & Horse Park in Louisville. Take time to appreciate American artistry at the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky. Rest up from your portside adventures during five days of scenic river cruising.
This itinerary is available from June to August 2024, 2025 and 2026 on the 180-passenger modern river ship American Melody and the 150-passenger paddlewheeler American Heritage.
If someone asked me to pick an ideal food, I’d almost certainly go with pizza. It’s tasty, portable and easy to prepare, and just about everyone likes it. That’s why it’s unsurprising that it’s one of the most popular foods on cruise ships.
Carnival Cruise Line is known for having some of the best pizza at sea. In fact, it’s so good I find myself enjoying a slice or two almost daily when I sail. Here’s a guide to where you can find it, what’s on the menu and how much a pie will cost you.
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What are the names of the pizza places on Carnival ships?
Coastal Slice pizzeria on Carnival Jubilee. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Carnival offers nearly round-the-clock pizza on every one of its vessels, so you’re never far from cheesy goodness when you’re on board.
Almost all ships — 25 of the 27 in the fleet — have either Pizza Pirate or Pizzeria del Capitano. The other two vessels, which are part of the line’s new Excel Class, have something similar but with a different name: Miami Slice on Carnival Celebration and Coastal Slice on Carnival Jubilee.
The one thing they all have in common is that you can order either by the pie or by the slice, and you won’t pay an extra cent. The pizzerias are also all set up as walk-up counters. Be warned: The pizzas are so good there’s likely to be a line more often than not.
Carnival cruise pizza menus
A crew member serves a slice of pizza at Pizza Pirate on a Carnival cruise ship. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Each of Carnival’s pizza outposts features a selection of five pizza types, three of which are core options that appear on all menus across the fleet and two of which can change from ship to ship.
Note: Menus were accurate at the time of publication but are subject to change without notice.
Pizza Pirate menu
The menu from Carnival Cruise Line’s Pizza Pirate. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
On the Pizza Pirate menu, Carnival offers five different types of pies:
Margherita: Tomato sauce, basil and fresh mozzarella
Pepperoni: Tomato sauce, pepperoni and fresh mozzarella
Quattro Formaggi: Gorgonzola, provolone, Parmesan and fresh mozzarella cheeses with roasted garlic
Funghi: Tomato sauce, mushrooms and fresh mozzarella
Prosciutto: Roasted garlic, rucola, prosciutto and fresh mozzarella
Pizzeria del Capitano menu
The menu from Carnival Cruise Line’s Pizzeria del Capitano. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
The menu at Pizzeria del Capitano includes the same five options as the one at Pizza Pirate:
Margherita: Tomato sauce, basil and fresh mozzarella
Pepperoni: Tomato sauce, pepperoni and fresh mozzarella
Quattro Formaggi: Gorgonzola, provolone, Parmesan and fresh mozzarella cheeses with roasted garlic
Funghi: Tomato sauce, mushrooms and fresh mozzarella
Prosciutto: Roasted garlic, rucola, prosciutto and fresh mozzarella
Miami Slice menu
The menu from Carnival Celebration’s Miami Slice pizza joint. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Miami Slice’s menu offers the three staple types, plus two that you can only find on Carnival Celebration:
Margherita: Tomato sauce, basil and fresh mozzarella
Pepperoni: Tomato sauce, pepperoni and fresh mozzarella
Quattro Formaggi: Gorgonzola, provolone, Parmesan and fresh mozzarella cheeses with roasted garlic
La Habana: Ham and chorizo with gouda, mozzarella and manchego cheeses
Picadillo: Ground beef and sazon with gouda and mozzarella cheeses
Coastal Slice menu
The menu from Carnival Jubilee’s Coastal Slice pizza joint. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Coastal Slice features the three core varieties, as well as two different selections that you can only find on Carnival Jubilee:
Margherita: Tomato sauce, basil and mozzarella
Pepperoni: Tomato sauce, pepperoni and mozzarella
Quattro Formaggi: Gorgonzola, provolone, Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses with roasted garlic
Barbecue chicken: Barbecue chicken with alfredo sauce, red onion, scallions, and mozzarella and gouda cheeses
Tex Mex: Bacon, corn, bell peppers and jalapenos with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses
Carnival cruise pizza prices
Pizzeria del Capitano, Coastal Slice, Miami Slice and Pizza Pirate prices are all the same — free for all passengers.
Which Carnival ships have pizza?
A four-cheese pizza from the Coastal Slice pizzeria in The Shores zone on Carnival Jubilee. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
All ships in the Carnival fleet have dedicated pizza joints on board. The breakdown is as follows:
Pizza Pirate: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Elation, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Glory, Carnival Legend, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Paradise, Carnival Pride and Carnival Valor
But of all the ways to earn Alaska miles, the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal remains one of the most important for many travelers’ earning strategies.
If you’re hoping to learn more about earning Alaska miles online via the Mileage Plan Shopping portal, here’s what you need to know.
Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal basics
Online shopping portals are one of the easiest ways to earn extra miles on your purchases. They’re free and easy to use, so there’s no excuse not to use a shopping portal before you purchase items online. Many loyalty programs offer online shopping portals, but this guide is about the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal.
To use the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal, head to its website. Once there, you can sign in using your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan credentials. After you do so, you’ll earn bonus miles when you shop with eligible retailers.
The exact amount you earn will vary by retailer and when you purchase. Some offer a fixed number of miles per purchase (such as 1,000 miles for a purchase of $50 or more), but most offer a multiplier based on the amount you spend (such as 2 miles per dollar).
MILEAGEPLANSHOPPING.COM
The earning rate for most retailers will increase periodically. So, it may be smart to wait to make non-urgent purchases when the Alaska Mileage Plan portal earning rates are elevated for a specific merchant.
How to use the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal
The Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal includes more than 1,100 retailers. So, if you’re buying something online, there’s a good chance that you can earn bonus miles through the carrier’s shopping portal.
Start your shopping trip by visiting the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal site. Enter your desired merchant’s name into the search box, browse the available merchants and choose one. Click the heart to make the merchant a favorite, and click the “Shop Now” button once you’re ready to visit the merchant’s website and make your purchase.
MILEAGEPLANSHOPPING.COM
Clicking “Shop Now” will open a new tab for your desired merchant. From there, you shop and check out as normal. It’s important to note that if you close out of the tab for any reason, you’ll need to go back and start the entire process again. Otherwise, your miles might not post correctly.
You may also see in-store offers through the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal. Link the offer to the credit card you plan to use in-store for these offers. Then, head to the physical store and use your linked card when checking out.
MILEAGEPLANSHOPPING.COM
Finally, if you don’t want to forget to earn Alaska miles while shopping online, you can install the Mileage Plan Shopping button via a Chrome browser extension. Once you do so, the browser extension will pop up a small window when you’re on a site that participates in the Alaska Mileage Plan Shopping portal. You can click a button to activate the portal to earn rewards through Mileage Plan Shopping on your purchases with that merchant.
Best credit cards to use with online shopping portals
Shopping portals don’t change how your purchase is coded. As such, the charge on your credit card statement will still be from “Adidas” whether or not you use the Alaska Mileage Plan shopping portal. Many online merchants don’t fall into standard credit card bonus categories, so you’ll often want to use one of the best cards for everyday spending.
Some of the best everyday spending cards include cards that earn more than 1% cash back or 1 point per dollar. For example, the Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees) earns 2% cash back on purchases: 1% when you buy and 1% as you pay. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card earns at least 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases.
XAVIER LORENZO/GETTY IMAGES
Of course, you’ll want to pay specific attention to merchants that will likely code as a bonus category on one of your cards. If you’re making a purchase you expect might break just outside its warranty, you may want to use a card that offers extended warranty protection — even if it earns fewer rewards than other cards.
If you’ve decided to make an online purchase, you might as well earn more rewards through an online shopping portal. If you need more Alaska miles, the Mileage Plan shopping portal can be a great way to increase your return.
Earning Alaska miles from the Mileage Plan Shopping portal and credit card rewards is already a huge win. Still, it’s sometimes possible to do even better with a credit card merchant offer or another rebate. So, carefully consider how you might be able to maximize your earnings before making your next online purchase.
Before you sign off for the weekend, know that Southwest Airlines is offering 25% off flights across its network for travel through September.
The one catch to keep in mind is that this discount only applies to flights booked with Southwest Rapid Rewards points.
Deal basics
SOUTHWEST.COM
Airline: Southwest Routes: Valid for travel across the Southwest network How to book: Directly with the airline using the promo code “SAVE25NOW” Travel dates: April 15-Sept. 30 Book by: Monday, April 15, at 11:59 p.m. PDT Blackout dates: May 23-24 and 27; July 7, 14, 21 and 28
Fares purchased through this sale are limited based on availability. They apply to nonstop travel when available or a single connecting service. The discount does not apply to $5.60 in taxes and fees each way.
Sample flights
Because Southwest does not generally publish its sale routes, the quickest way to search this deal is by using its Low Fare Calendar to search your desired route with the promo code “SAVE25NOW” added.
SOUTHWEST.COM
For example, you could book a round trip from Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in August for 26,160 Rapid Reward points plus the aforementioned $11.20 in taxes and fees. For this particular booking, you could save 8,720 points through this sale.
Sale fares are available for Wanna Get Way and Wanna Get Away Plus fares, which allow travelers to bring two free checked bags and two carry-on items. These fare types are cancelable up to 10 minutes before departure for free. Wanna Get Away fares that are canceled will receive a flight credit in lieu of a refund; they also include free inflight entertainment and messaging.
This sale includes flights across the Southwest network for travel through September. Search your desired routes for possible sale fares up to 30% off.
Maximize your purchase
If you book this deal, use a credit card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as:
American Express® Gold Card: 3 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com
The Platinum Card® from American Express: 5 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
The information for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Bottom line
This sale is unique in that it only applies to Southwest Rapid Rewards points bookings, which TPG currently values at 1.37 cents apiece. If you have points to use and are planning on taking a trip this spring or summer, this deal is worth considering. As with all deals, compare the value of this deal in points and cash, which you can do using TPG’s calculator.
If you relish the potential to meet someone famous, you’ll be interested to know where the stars are traveling. But if you don’t buy into celebrity culture, why would you even care?
Well, it makes sense that seen-it-all celebs with bottomless bank accounts have access and the inclination to visit the best of the best, so the A-list travel calendar tends to favor the world’s finest destinations and happenings.
For a lens into those superlative places and moments, here’s our guide to where celebrities are traveling this summer — from perennial hot spots like St. Barts and Lake Como in Italy to major events such as Wimbledon in London and the 2024 Paris Olympics to destinations you may have never even heard of … yet.
Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Soho Beach House Canouan. SOHO HOUSE
Canouan — a Caribbean island that may not sound familiar to most people — must surely be the best-kept secret among the celebrity and billionaire set. The off-the-beaten-path escape in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is just 5 square miles, with a world-class marina, roaming turtles and spectacular turquoise waters lapping white sand beaches.
The airport’s 5,900-foot illuminated runway makes it highly accessible by private jet (but less so for mere mortals). There’s also a Soho House here, which says something; royal watchers well know that Meghan Markle is a big Soho fan — and, indeed, the Sussexes stayed on the island just months ago.
Mandarin Oriental Canouan has 26 suites and 13 villas (all with ultra-personalized butler service), plus a Jim Fazio-designed golf course and a knockout hillside spa. Each of the 26 beach-chic suites and 13 villas offers sweeping oceanfront views or direct access to the sand. Rates start from $1,693 per night.
St. Barts
St. Barts Bucket Regatta in St. Barts. STUDIO BORLENGHI/ALEA/GETTY IMAGES
On any given day in St. Barts, you can expect to see a bold-faced name — say, Leonardo DiCaprio, Pippa Middleton, Jeff Bezos or Naomi Campbell.
Known for its idyllic beaches, luxury shopping boutiques, high-end restaurants, lavish resorts and yachting culture, the French West Indies island is a perennial favorite among celebrities and miscellaneous billionaires.
For a see-and-be-seen brunch, visit Nikki Beach, then check out Bonito in Gustavia for dinner with a DJ scene. In July, you can experience the annual cultural festivities around Bastille Day, the national day of France.
Where to stay
Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf sits in the city of Gustavia. The intimately scaled property has just 21 rooms, suites and bungalows with private plunge pools. It’s also home to the restaurant Beefbar, which happens to be a prime location to take in a Bastille Day fireworks display. Rates start from $863 per night.
Known as the Mykonos of Turkey, Bodrum offers more secluded environs than its more crowded counterparts along the glamorous Aegean coast. This glam Turkish Rivera destination has yacht-lined marinas, seaside villages and pristine, private beaches with sparkling turquoise waters.
The port city also offers must-see cultural sites, from the towering Bodrum Castle to Halicarnassus Mausoleum (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) and the Pedesa Ancient City.
At night, the city’s array of clubs and bars on the iconic mile-long Cumhuriyet Caddesi come to life. Bodrum’s culinary scene is also thriving, having recently celebrated its inclusion in Turkey’s Michelin Guide. This party town has been known to beckon celebs like Beyonce, Cristiano Ronaldo and Tom Hanks.
Where to stay
Set to open in May 2024, Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort will be an opulent luxury resort with over-the-top suites and amenities situated on a private peninsula. (The Presidential Hill Villa has its own sauna, fitness room and seawater pool.) Rates start from $820 per night.
Santa Barbara, California
JORDAN SIEMENS/GETTY IMAGES
The American Riviera regularly swarms with stars of next-level wattage; Oprah and the Sussexes live in Montecito, California, and Hollywood’s A-list routinely heads up the coast for a quick California getaway. (It’s where Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker got engaged, for one thing.)
On popular State Street in downtown Santa Barbara, local and boutique shops line the promenade, with restaurants led by top chefs scattered across town — like chef Lennon Silvers Lee, who left Michelin-starred restaurant Sushi Bar Montecito to open the 10-seat Silvers Omakase in the bohemian Funk Zone.
Where to stay
Rosewood Miramar Beach is famous for celebrity ties; that much-Instagrammed Kardashian-Barker proposal happened right here. The beachfront hotel in Montecito introduced the Miramar Surf Club, a collaboration led by local surf legend Adam Lambert, this year. The private surf lesson comes with a picnic for two, along with a photo and video shot by the official Surfer Magazine photographer. Rates start from $1,502 per night.
Situated just south of Dubrovnik, Croatia, this less-traveled destination evokes St-Tropez before the crowds. Celebs are in the know: Jay Z, David Beckham and Matthew McConaughey have dropped by.
The small town on the Adriatic has a beautiful waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, beaches, churches, monuments, museums, outdoor restaurants and cafes, and boutiques. Plus, there are more than 4 miles of beaches ringed by crystalline waters.
Where to stay
Located in the charming historic center, Hotel Supetar Cavtat is just 2 years old, with 16 stylish, individually designed rooms. The hotel also houses a Mediterranean restaurant, a wine bar, an artist-in-residence program, a garden and a pool. Rates start from $308 per night.
London
TIM CLAYTON/CORBIS/GETTY IMAGES
One of the most prestigious sporting events in the world (and certainly the most venerable and oldest tennis championship), London’s famous lawn club, Wimbledon, draws A-list stars from around the globe in July.
Prince William and Kate Middleton, Brad Pitt, Emma Watson, Ariana Grande and Dame Maggie Smith were all among the crowd last year. Hop across the pond to mingle amid the swelled celebrity population at the city’s hottest restaurants and shops while escaping the more intense heat associated with other parts of Europe in the summer.
Where to stay
Located steps from Covent Garden, Great Scotland Yard Hotel (part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt) is one of London’s most historic properties, echoing with untold stories of celeb guests. Here, no two rooms are the same, but all offer stunning views of London. Rates start from $278 per night.
While this city might not have made a list like this in years past, its new status as a celebrity magnet is undeniable. It hosted the 2023 NFL Draft, opened the first stadium purpose-built for a women’s sports team and is home to the Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.
Over the last year, A$AP Rocky and Rihanna were in town filming the rapper’s music video, and Cardi B flew in for Beyoncé’s final stop on the Renaissance Tour. Plus, you might have heard about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. This summer, native celebrities like Paul Rudd, Eric Stonestreet and Heidi Gardner will host the fundraising event Big Slick Celebrity Weekend.
Where to stay
The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection is a boutique property located in a historic landmark, mere steps from the Country Club Plaza, the city’s major destination for shopping, dining and nightlife. Rates start from $208 per night.
Aspen, Colorado
KEN REDDING/GETTY IMAGES
Aspen’s draw of Hollywood elites dates back to the ‘30s, and, more recently, it has turned into a fashion capital, with high-end western apparel brand Kemo Sabe setting up a brick-and-mortar shop — joining the fashion scene in town alongside the likes of Prada, Gucci, Dior and Louis Vuitton. (Stroll long enough and you might encounter the likes of Mariah Carey or Kendall Jenner, known for shopping sprees in town.)
Make like celeb couples Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly, or Kris Jenner and Corey Gamble, and go for a high-visibility date night at the Michelin-recommended Element 47 or Cache Cache for French-American fare.
In the past year, celeb visitors to Aspen included Jenner and Carey, plus Justin and Hailey Bieber, Rihanna and Nina Dobrev, among others. Since the ‘70s, Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn have lived here, and their children, Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson, visit annually.
Where to stay
A celeb haunt since it opened in 1889, Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection is part of the National Register of Historic Places. The property has been known to host stars like Josh Hartnett, Gerard Butler, Seal, Heidi Klum and Jessica Biel, and the legendary J-Bar at the hotel was a favorite of Hunter S. Thompson. Rates start from $715 per night.
The Olympic Games draw celebs from around the world — as spectators and as participants. Naturally, this summer’s Paris Olympics will no doubt be a magnet for A-listers. The events will make Paris unusually crowded (even by its own summer standards) this July and August, as well as plenty pricey.
But, at any time of year, the City of Light draws culture-seeking celebs with its romantic cityscapes, haute cuisine, exclusive shopping opportunities and all-around pursuit of the finer things in life.
Where to stay
Many of the celebrity-magnet hotels are already sold out during the Olympics dates (such as The Peninsula, Paris in the 16th Arrondissement, but its spa and Michelin-starred L’Oiseau Blanc, as well as the beloved Le Lobby lounge, are expected to be open to visitors).
You can still book a stay at the opulent and intimate Hotel San Regis, formerly a 19th-century private mansion, in the 8th Arrondissement. Rates start from $545 per night.
Lake Como, Italy
MARCO BOTTIGELI/GETTY IMAGES
A-listers like George Clooney, Madonna, Richard Branson and Sylvester Stallone own or have owned villas around the shores of Lake Como. Celebs like Beyoncé and Jay-Z have been spotted there recently. Not to mention, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen returned for a vow renewal after marrying here.
It’s no wonder why celebs flock to this Italian paradise. It’s full of secluded villas tucked into lush greenery, where you can enjoy phenomenal views of the sparkling waters of the lake.
Villa d’Este is where you’d stay, say, if you were Elizabeth Taylor trying to hide your affair with Richard Burton. The opulence — and discretion — is next level. Rates start from $798 per night.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. FOUR SEASONS
Stars such as Kim Kardashian, Sandra Bullock, Brad Pitt and Matthew McConaughey have all spent time in Jackson Hole — with its charming town and atmosphere, and posh lodging options.
Last summer, Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling were seen in town, and various stars own permanent residences or vacation homes here. Still, the dramatic, remote landscape is protected by stunning national parks, forests and land trusts so it will never spoil, and there is limited opportunity for development and investment, which keeps the vibe exclusive.
In town are more than 25 galleries for browsing local art, and live music plays most nights of the week. For a dose of local fauna, book an impressive wildlife safari.
Where to stay
The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole has a peaceful, mountain-chic aesthetic. There’s an expansive spa and heated pool for non-ski-season delights. And for accommodations worthy of a celeb, the property offers its residential-style Private Retreats collection. The resort is five minutes from the entrance of Grand Teton National Park — and the wildlife knows no bounds. It is not unusual for guests to see moose and other wildlife near the pool deck. Rates start from $380 per night.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
While most loyalty programs do not offer a way to extend elite status beyond the current year, a workaround is available: By matching your expiring elite status to a competing loyalty program, you can potentially maintain your benefits by selecting different carriers.
Numerous airline loyalty programs provide the opportunity to match elite benefits from other programs. For instance, if your Delta Air Lines Medallion elite status will expire next year, you might be able to match it to a competitor’s program. This typically grants you temporary elite status with the competing program, which can be extended by meeting specific flight or revenue requirements.
Therefore, if you qualify, you can gain complimentary elite status with another airline. Keep reading to learn more about current airline status matches and challenges you can snag in 2024.
What is an airline status match?
A status match typically involves getting an equivalent or lower status tier with a new airline based on your existing status with a competitor’s program. So, why would airlines offer a status match challenge?
If a traveler has shown significant loyalty to one particular airline and program, this behavior can be attractive to a rival airline. The traveler may consider switching loyalty because they are unhappy with their existing program, or perhaps their circumstances have changed, such as moving from a city like Houston, where United Airlines is the dominant airline, to Atlanta, where Delta has a hub.
If you want to try out another program but don’t fancy starting from scratch, a status match or challenge can be a great way to solve this problem. It’s worth exploring the major elite status match and challenge opportunities available if you want to break up with an airline — though there are some caveats to consider.
What to know about getting an airline status match
A United Airlines Boeing 777-300ER departs Honolulu. KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY
There are some important strategies and principles to remember when initiating a status match or challenge.
For a status match, you must typically provide a photo of your membership card and a mileage statement to prove your status. It is crucial to avoid altering or falsifying your credentials, as this can result in severe consequences, including account suspension.
On the other hand, a status challenge may or may not require you to have existing status. The airline will specify the number of elite qualifying miles or dollars you must earn within a specific time frame to achieve a particular elite tier. It is essential to thoroughly understand the requirements and which activities count toward the challenge, as some cobranded credit cards or partner airline tickets may be excluded. Remember that status matches and challenges are often limited to once per lifetime per account, although some carriers have exceptions.
It is usually advised to complete a match or challenge after June to enjoy status for the rest of the year and potentially retain it for the following year. However, recent airline status match challenges, like the one Delta began offering in 2024, will allow you to maintain status through January 2026.
Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that airlines may not always publicize their status match and challenge opportunities. You may need to call or email the airline’s customer service and check websites like StatusMatcher. Remember that your request’s outcome may vary depending on the agent processing it.
Alaska Airlines used to offer straightforward status matches; however, the current status match process now includes a challenge component.
Alaska will match elite status from the following programs:
Aeromexico Rewards
Air Canada Aeroplan
American Airlines AAdvantage
Delta Air Lines SkyMiles
Frontier Airlines Miles
Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles
JetBlue TrueBlue
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
United Airlines MileagePlus
When you request a status match, you will be granted the corresponding status level in the Alaska Mileage Plan program for 90 days. To retain this status beyond the initial period, you must fly a specific number of miles on flights marketed and operated by Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air or SkyWest Airlines, depending on the tier you match.
The required flight thresholds are as follows:
MVP: 5,000 miles
MVP Gold: 10,000 miles
MVP Gold 75K: 20,000 miles
Unfortunately, Alaska’s MVP Gold 100K tier has no status match opportunity.
To submit a request, visit the dedicated status match page and provide a screenshot of your current mileage statement displaying your name, status and miles earned this year or flown in the prior year to achieve elite status.
If matched to MVP Gold 75K, you won’t be eligible for the 50,000 bonus miles associated with qualifying for that status, even if you successfully reach the 20,000-mile threshold. However, if you match to Gold and fly enough to keep that status, you will receive four Gold guest upgrades. Meanwhile, those who complete the MVP Gold 75K challenge will receive those upgrades, plus four Alaska Lounge daypasses and the ability to nominate someone for MVP status.
If you request a status match by the end of June and fulfill the requirements, your new status will be valid until the end of the calendar year. On the other hand, if you initiate your status match on or after July 1 through December and fulfill the requirements, your status will be valid until the end of the following year, so applying for it in July or August of this year would maximize the length.
American Airlines offers a status challenge program called Instant Status Pass to Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Diamond Medallion members and United MileagePlus Premier Platinum and Premier 1K elite members. To participate, you can apply on aa.com and be matched to either AAdvantage Platinum Pro or Executive Platinum.
The program consists of three phases, each lasting four months. Upon registration, you will immediately enjoy the benefits of the chosen status tier. To maintain the temporary status for another four months, you need to earn a prorated number of Loyalty Points, which is around one-third of the full requirement for a year.
The Loyalty Points required for each tier are as follows:
During each phase, you can earn Loyalty Points through qualifying activities with American, its partners and cobranded credit card spending. All these activities count toward your status challenge.
The status you achieve in the first phase determines your starting point in the subsequent phase. This means that regardless of the initial tier you registered for, you will begin the second phase with the benefits you unlocked in the previous phase.
From now through May 7, new and existing U.S.-based British Airways Executive Club members with elite status in one of eight airline programs can receive reciprocal status with the British Airways Executive Club status for free.
Here are the programs and status levels eligible for this match:
Airline loyalty program
British Airways Executive Club Silver status
British Airways Executive Club Gold status
Delta SkyMiles
Delta SkyMiles Gold Medallion
Delta SkyMiles Platinum Medallion
Air Canada Aeroplan
Air Canada Aeroplan 50K
Air Canada Aeroplan 75K and Super Elite
Lufthansa Miles & More
Lufthansa Miles & More Senator
Lufthansa Miles & More Hon Circle
United MileagePlus
United MileagePlus Premier Gold
United MileagePlus Premier Platinum and Premier 1K
Air France-KLM Flying Blue
Air France-KLM Flying Blue Gold
Air France-KLM Flying Blue Platinum
Scandinavian Airlines EuroBonus
Scandinavian Airlines EuroBonus Gold
Scandinavian Airlines EuroBonus Diamond and Pandion
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Silver
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Gold
Note that you must apply online for this offer and provide valid proof of eligible frequent flyer status.
Approved applicants will be upgraded to the matched British Airways Executive Club tier for six months, with the opportunity to extend the match for up to a year by booking two eligible flights or one return flight, per the offer’s terms and conditions.
Eligible flights include BA-marketed business- or first-class flights with origins in North America, Canada or Mexico and landing in Europe, Norway or Switzerland. Eligible flights must be operated by British Airways, American Airlines, Aer Lingus, Iberia or Finnair.
After submitting your information and proof of your current status, you’ll be matched to the corresponding Medallion tier, complimentary, for three months.
With Medallion status moving to a Medallion Qualification Dollar-earning system in 2024, to extend the status beyond the initial three months, you would need to earn the following:
DELTA.COM
If you qualify and complete the challenge’s additional requirements, your Medallion status will be extended through Jan. 31, 2026.
You can match from 45 different airlines, hotels and cruise lines.
A new Elite Silver tier will provide 12 points per dollar spent and Zone 2 priority boarding.
Although further details have not yet been released for 2024, Frontier has previously charged members for the “administrative costs” of approving a status match.
First class on a Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330. KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY
While not publicly advertised, HawaiianMiles has previously offered status matches up to top-tier Platinum status on a case-by-case basis via its online contact form. It doesn’t hurt to ask.
To ask for a status match with Hawaiian Airlines, the company typically requires two things:
Proof of current elite status
Documentation of flights completed that earned the elite status, including flight activity to at least one of Hawaiian’s destinations
Matches are usually good for one calendar year from the time of upgrade.
While JetBlue previously offered a limited-time status match for disgruntled Delta Medallion members following the widely controversial changes announced in 2023, that offer has now ended, and JetBlue currently has no publicly available status match offer.
Southwest Airlines status match
The interior of a Southwest Boeing 737-800. KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY
Previously, it was difficult to discover Southwest’s status match and challenge programs as they were not widely advertised. However, the airline has now made these programs more accessible by providing all the terms and conditions on its website.
You must have status with another domestic airline to qualify for a Southwest A-List status match. Any status level seems to be accepted. To initiate the process, email southwest.statusmatch@wnco.com with your full name, Rapid Rewards account number and proof of elite status.
Once your request is processed, you will receive promotional A-List status for 90 days. Typically, Southwest grants this status within 12 business days of submission.
To extend your A-List status for an additional 12 months, you must book and complete three qualifying round-trip flights (or six one-ways) within 90 days. These flights must be paid fares, not award tickets. Existing A-List members with expiring status are not eligible for a status match.
It’s important to note that according to the terms and conditions, your flights must be booked and completed during the 90 days. While existing bookings may not count, Southwest allows easy cancellation and rebooking without penalties. This means you can convert existing bookings into new ones if the fare has not increased significantly.
To qualify for the Southwest status match, you must not have received promotional A-List status from any program, including status matches and challenges, within the past 12 months.
Similar to Frontier’s offering, the Spirit status match is currently unavailable. You can register on Spirit’s website to join the waitlist or apply once it becomes available again.
Historically, here’s how the program has worked.
Those with elite status on many North American carriers were eligible for a 90-day status match to Spirit’s Silver or Gold tier, depending on their existing elite status.
Here’s a look at elite statuses that have been eligible for Spirit’s status match in the past:
Airline
Silver status match — $49 application fee
Gold status match — $99 application fee
Alaska Airlines
MVP
MVP Gold and MVP Gold 75K
American Airlines
Gold
Platinum, Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum
Delta Air Lines
Silver Medallion
Platinum, Gold and Diamond Medallion
Frontier Airlines
20k
50k and 100k
Hawaiian Airlines
Gold
Platinum
JetBlue
N/A
Mosaic
Southwest Airlines
A-List
A-List Preferred and Companion Pass
United Airlines
Premier Silver
Premier Gold, Platinum and 1K
In the past, you could extend your status by fulfilling the following requirements in the 90-day window:
Free Spirit Silver: Earn 500 status qualifying points by flying Spirit or spending on a cobranded credit card.
Free Spirit Gold: Earn 1,250 SQPs by flying Spirit or spending on a cobranded credit card.
Silver and Gold elite members receive waived fees, such as free seat selection, priority boarding and same-day standby. You’re even eligible for a free checked and carry-on bag at the Gold level.
We’ll update this story when (or if) the Spirit Airlines status match returns.
After enrollment, members have 120 days to earn a set number of Premier qualifying flights and Premier qualifying points to extend their elite status. If you earn Premier status on or after July 1, 2024, your elite status is valid through January 2026. If you earn status before July, your Premier status is only valid through January 2025.
UNITED.COM
Note that the flights must be operated by United or United Express — partner flights (including those on Star Alliance carriers) aren’t eligible. Challenges are limited to once every five years per MileagePlus account.
Depending on your existing status tier, you’re eligible for an instant match to Second Tier (Silver) or Top Tier (Gold). However, those who match to Gold must have a future paid flight booked in Upper Class or premium economy to be eligible. Meanwhile, those matching to Silver must have a flight booked in any cabin to be approved for a match. Once approved, your status match will be valid for 12 months from the date the account was upgraded.
Here’s a look at what programs and status tiers are eligible:
Loyalty program
Second Tier (Silver)
Top Tier (Gold)
American Airlines AAdvantage
Platinum Pro
Executive Platinum
British Airways Executive Club
Silver
Gold
Cathay Pacific
Gold
Diamond
El Al Matmid
Gold
Platinum
Hong Kong Airlines Fortune Wings Club
Silver
Platinum or Gold
Iberia Plus
Oro
Platino
Lufthansa Miles & More
Senator
Hon Circle
Pakistan International Airlines Awards +Plus
Sapphire
Diamond
Scandinavian Airlines EuroBonus
Gold
Diamond
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
Silver
Gold
South African Airways Voyager
Silver
Gold or Platinum
United Airlines MileagePlus
Premier Platinum
Premier 1K
Once your status is upgraded, you’ll enjoy your status for 12 months. Here’s what you have to earn in the 12 months to retain your status:
Silver: 400 tier points
Gold: 1,000 tier points
Those with Virgin Atlantic status benefit from flying with the airline and its partners. On Delta flights, Gold members receive priority seating, lounge access on select flights, priority baggage and other benefits. Plus, they receive benefits on SkyTeam airlines, including Air France, KLM, Korean Air and China Eastern Airlines.
Unfortunately, since Virgin Atlantic is now a member of Sky Team, you can’t use your Delta status for this match.
Airlines offer status matches and challenges to attract elite customers from their competitors. However, as customers, we can also benefit from these opportunities. Status matches and challenges provide a shortcut to enjoying perks, cost-saving measures and waived fees, especially if you are moving to a hub where your preferred airline doesn’t operate (or has a smaller presence).
They can also be advantageous for specific trips, particularly international ones. Or, you can use them if you’re ready to break up with your existing airline over unwelcome changes to its program.
Before applying for a status match or challenge, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the terms and conditions and ensure you can meet the requirements and apply at an opportune time. Don’t overlook opportunities with foreign carriers that could grant alliance elite status, offering benefits like lounge access and increased baggage capacity on domestic airlines.
If your current elite status is about to expire, remember to submit your status match request before it does to avoid missing out on the opportunity.
If one of your favorite components of a cruise vacation is a robust cocktail scene, Carnival Cruise Line has you covered. The Alchemy Bar, found on most Carnival ships, is a popular hangout among cruise passengers. It made TPG’s list of the best cruise ship bars for good reason.
For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.
Here’s all you need to know about Carnival Cruise Line’s Alchemy Bar (including its menu).
What is Carnival’s Alchemy Bar?
Alchemy Bar. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
The Alchemy Bar is designed to resemble a pharmacy from a bygone era. The venue’s vintage pharmacy theme plays out in bar props like apothecary jars, old-timey-looking wooden drawers and lab coat-wearing mixologists.
The rustic leather-covered cocktail menu holds a list of “remedies” and “elixirs” made with various herbs and botanicals.
If you don’t see what you like on the menu — or have already tried everything on it — no problem. Share some of your cocktail “likes,” and your Alchemy Bar mixologist will “prescribe” something just for you.
The Alchemy Bar typically opens at 4 p.m. on embarkation and port days. On sea days, it opens at 2 p.m. It has no official closing time, but it’s often open past midnight.
Carnival Alchemy Bar menu
Alchemy Bar menu. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
You won’t find frozen drinks here. Freshly prepared botanical-forward drinks are the star at the Alchemy Bar. The Cucumber Sunrise (a fan favorite) made with vodka, fresh lime juice, watermelon nectar and muddled cucumber is definitely worth checking out. Also, the Quick Fix, with vodka, gin, rum, Midori liqueur, Pernod absinthe and Sprite, should cure all that ails you.
You can also enjoy mocktails at the Alchemy Bar. Carnival offers seven classic cocktails handmade with Lyre’s Spiced Cane, Agave Blanco, White Cane and Dry London nonalcoholic spirits.
Enjoy a refreshing Martini Seduction, made with Lyre’s White Cane, red passion fruit nectar, freshly squeezed lime juice and a smidgen of orange. The Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini features Lyre’s Agave Blanco, handcrafted chipotle pineapple syrup, pineapple juice and mint leaves.
The Remedy, Hearts of Fire, Restorative Basil Drop, The Perfect Storm and Cucumber Sunrise cocktails are also available sans alcohol.
What do drinks at the Alchemy Bar cost?
Cocktails at the Alchemy Bar cost $14 for alcoholic beverages and $10 for nonalcoholic drinks. Drinks on the Alchemy Bar menu are covered under the Carnival Cheers drink package.
All ships in the Carnival fleet, except Carnival Firenze and Carnival Venezia, have the Alchemy Bar.
Carnival Cucumber Sunrise recipe
Cucumber Sunrise. KRISTY TOLLEY/THE POINTS GUY
The Cucumber Sunrise is probably my favorite Alchemy Bar cocktail. Refreshing and light, it tastes like a vacation in a glass. It’s made with Belvedere vodka, fresh lime juice, Monin watermelon syrup and orange juice and is topped with cucumber wheels.
Whether you want to celebrate an upcoming Carnival cruise or are craving to relive your previous Alchemy Bar experience, here’s the recipe for the Cucumber Sunrise so you can create it at home. Throw on a lab coat for the ultimate Alchemy Bar vibe.
Editor’s note: TPG founder Brian Kelly is a Bilt advisor and investor.
Bilt apologized April 10 after some Bilt Rewards members received an alarming email notice from Bilt Legal that their accounts were in jeopardy due to misuse. And there’s good news for those who may have transferred their points out just in case.
If you’re not familiar, the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees) offers holders the opportunity to earn points on paying rent (up to 100,000 points in a calendar year) and everyday purchases.
More than one TPG staffer was a recipient of the email, which stated:
“We have reason to believe that behavior on your account demonstrates an intent to engage in sustained misconduct and wrongdoing in connection to the program. Pursuant to the legally binding Bilt Rewards Terms & Conditions, Bilt has the right to ‘reject, revoke, cancel, terminate, or suspend any membership, benefit, and/or any and all points, or take any other action at its discretion… “
THE POINTS GUY
“We only ever use this account to pay rent and spend enough so we meet the non-rent spend minimum, so it was extra shocking because we only use it for what the card is made for. We also haven’t even redeemed anything with our points yet,” one TPG staffer said.
Around 2:30 p.m. Eastern time, Richard Kerr, vice president of travel at Bilt, posted a notice to Reddit explaining that the initial email was sent by mistake. Not long after, a corrective email was sent.
THE POINTS GUY
When TPG reached out to Kerr directly for comment, he said, “A small subsection of members received an email regarding loyalty program misconduct. This was sent in error, and members’ accounts are currently in good standing. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused and have added 250 points to any members who received the incorrect email.”
Unfortunately, the erroneous communication spurred some Bilt Rewards members to action, with one Redditor commenting that they had transferred their points “to avoid losing them,” while several others noted they did the same.
But Bilt told TPG that any points transferred by mistake would soon be returned to users’ accounts.
Protecting your rewards
If you find yourself on the receiving end of a similar notice in the future, you can take these steps in an effort to protect your points, and your sanity.
First, confirm that the communication you’ve received is actually from your reward program or credit card issuer. This may mean you have to call a support line and speak to a representative to get additional information.
Next, although the fine print in the terms and conditions you agreed to may be lengthy, they’re worth reading so that you know exactly what you signed up for and what specific actions could jeopardize your earned rewards.
The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be if you find yourself in a spot similar to this one.
And if you find yourself in a situation that you can’t figure out on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Points Guy for answers. We have a special editor to help with consumer problems. You can email us at ombudsman@thepointsguy.com.
Bottom line
While the email from Bilt was no doubt scary, Bilt Rewards members will be made whole.
One Reddit commenter said that they received both the original erroneous message and the second “disregard” email but no notice about getting comped 250 points.
These days, hotels aren’t just for people, though. The best ones have wised up to the fact that more and more travelers have pets (thanks, COVID-19), and many of those people want to travel with their furry companions.
Many pet owners aren’t simply looking for a hotel room with a dog bed tossed in the corner, though; they’re looking for hotels and resorts that let their — let’s all just say it — most-loved family members join in on every part of the experience.
With that in mind, we’ve gathered some of the most over-the-top experiences, packages and programs for pets we could find. From a Southern California resort offering puppy paddleboarding lessons to a hotel that will treat your dog like an A-list celebrity, here are our favorite luxury pet amenities worth planning a trip around.
Pampered pups at The Plaza
MATTHEW ZACH
Last year, my corgi, Splenda, got to be wined and dined at The Plaza in New York City — one of the world’s most famous hotels.
With the hotel’s Pampered Pup Package ($195), your fur baby can experience a multi-tier tray of dog macarons, food and water bowls (with bottles of Evian), a plush dog bed and a Plaza dog bathrobe. (You can even get the robe custom-fitted to your dog for an extra fee if you contact the hotel 30 days before your arrival.)
But the best treat, in my and Splenda’s experience, was all the love that the incredible staff and fellow guests at this iconic Fairmont property gave to the pets.
The Plaza welcomes two dogs of any size at no additional fee.
Hermes, Tiffany and wine at the Conrad
HILTON
For some pups, money is no object. When those dogs find themselves in the nation’s capital, they insist their parents book them at the Conrad Washington DC for the $5,999 “Lab of Luxury” package.
Sure, it’s not cheap, but it does include two nights in a “bark-view” suite (or park-view for us humans), a Hermes collar and leash, a Tiffany & Co. water bowl and pet-friendly treats from chef Nelson Lopez. To get out on the town, the package also includes a picnic with car service to take you and your furry companions on a tour of three dog-friendly wineries in the area, a photo session at CityCenterDC and a $500 donation to the Humane Society of the United States.
Dogs up to 150 pounds are allowed at the Conrad Washington DC for a fee of $75. Luckily, that fee is included in the Lab of Luxury package.
A doggy playlist and pet-friendly headphones
HOTEL SWEXAN
The new Hotel Swexan in Dallas is an oasis for pets (and pet owners). It even has an on-staff “pet adventures and wellness specialist,” Crystal Montero, who oversees the property’s pet offerings.
Beyond offering the basics like dog beds and treats, guests can also take advantage of 24-hour dog walking services and pet-friendly spot recommendations in Dallas. You can even borrow a pair of pet-friendly Bluetooth headphones, so your dog can listen to the hotel’s curated “doggy playlist” to relax after a long day of exploring.
Hotel Swexan charges a $150 pet fee and allows dogs less than 35 pounds.
Puppy paddleboard lessons in San Diego
KONA KAI SAN DIEGO
In San Diego, paddleboarding isn’t just for those of us with two legs. At Kona Kai San Diego on Shelter Island, pets and pet parents can enjoy a day out on the water learning the ins and outs (and most importantly, safety) of paddleboarding in the resort’s private marina.
After a fun day in the sun, take advantage of other pet-friendly perks like a 25-minute “Furry Flex” muscle stretch massage from a certified pet massage therapist. Your pup can enjoy dinner from the Pooch Provisions Plates menu at Vessel Restaurant, featuring dishes like Pawnut Butter Crunch and Carrot Sticks ($5).
Two dogs up to 65 pounds are welcome at Kona Kai San Diego for a fee of $100 for up to three nights or $150 for four to seven nights.
A pet massage in Cabo
MELANIE LIEBERMAN/THE POINTS GUY
At The Cape, a Thompson Hotel — and one of TPG’s favorite points hotels in the area — the Currents Spa understands that even dogs get stressed. They know pups have some kinks here and there that need to be worked out, especially on vacation.
That’s why the World of Hyatt-participating property offers the “Sun, Sand and Paws Massage,” an exclusive 25-minute in-room massage for your pooch that costs $149. Sure, that might sound expensive, but can you really put a price on the well-being of your very best friend?
One pet is allowed to stay at The Cape for a fee of $100 per night.
While pup parents hit the spa, the hotel can arrange to take their pooch to La Dmous Aventina, a local dog spa, for a high-end treatment. And, because Rome is one of the world’s fashion capitals, the hotel can arrange for a cashmere sweater embellished with your dog’s name on it, waiting in the room.
At this hotel, pets are also welcome to join their owners at the Tiepolo Lounge & Terrace or the Imperial Club. But even pets know that the best meal at a hotel is one served in bed; this Waldorf’s in-room pet menu includes a two-course meal for 28 euros ($30) with options like a pasta terrine, tuna and veggie starter followed by lamb and rice as a main.
Small dogs are allowed for 35 euros ($38) per day.
‘Pup-arazzi’ treat dogs like Hollywood stars
HILTON
The Foundry Hotel Asheville, Curio Collection by Hilton knows that in pet owners’ eyes, their fur baby is a star. That’s why the hotel offers the “Pup-arazzi Adventure Package,” which includes pet-friendly accommodations and a one-hour pup photo session with a local photographer to document your trip to share with the world.
The hotel can also set you up with pet-friendly hikes and ensure that owners are loaded up with treats; the hotel even includes a voucher for a dog bath for a post-hike cleanup. Furry guests will also receive goodies from Patton Avenue Pet Company, like treats and a dog beer (because it’s Asheville).
The package starts at $460. Otherwise, dogs of all sizes are welcome for a fee of $75 per stay.
Doggie donburi for the four-legged foodie
PERRY LANE HOTEL
These days, it’s not rare to find hotels offering gourmet dog menus, but few have made dishes so pretty they could snag a spot on a human foodie’s Instagram grid.
In Savannah, the chic Perry Lane Hotel knows exactly what every discerning pup wants: a colorful bowl of doggie donburi made up of juicy grilled chicken breast, cucumbers and green cabbage. But that meal doesn’t have to be served in the room; you can order it at the pet-friendly hotel rooftop bar and lounge, Peregrin. Savannah-bound pups can also expect a Perry Lane bandana, bowls, a bed and treats from the local pet bakery Oliver Bentley.
Dogs up to 50 pounds are welcome at the Perry Lane Hotel for a fee of $150 plus $20 per night.
A pet-friendly reiki session in Santa Fe
AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION
At the Auberge Resort Bishop’s Lodge in Santa Fe, the Land of Enchantment has a beautiful way to connect with your pet on a spiritual level: through the Japanese healing art of reiki.
For $280, you and your pet can opt for the 60-minute “Animal Life Force” ritual, best described by the Stream Dance Spa:
“During this insightful session, our ‘helper’ holds space with the animals as they share helpful information for their humans to know in order to better the animal’s physical & emotional well-being. A pre- and post-consultation with animal guardians is part of the session in addition to a sentimental take-away.”
I’m not sure I can tell you what that means exactly, but I’m told it’s great to help with animals suffering from trauma, stress or injury.
Two dogs are allowed at Bishop’s Lodge for a fee of $100.
Pet-friendly cabanas in Cancun
HILTON
While many hotels are pet-friendly, pets are often not actually allowed to go many places outside of the room.
That’s not the case at the Waldorf Astoria Cancun, where dogs can hang out by the pool and lounge in a cabana to soak up some warm Yucatan sunshine. As part of the “Rover Night” package, very good doggos can roam around the property, order canine-friendly food from a special pet menu and then cozy up in a special dog bed waiting in the room.
Dogs up to 50 pounds are welcome at the Waldorf Astoria Cancun for a fee of $150.
