I am writing this from the airport, waiting to board my connecting flight home from Los Angeles (LAX). In my last blog I mentioned the team was headed to L.A. for the 16th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards and that this trip included a lot of firsts for me.
My first time in L.A. was fun. I stayed at The Peninsula Beverly Hills and loved every minute. I wish I was there a little longer so I could go sightseeing, but I did get to go to Rodeo Drive, which was cool.
I really enjoyed my first trip as part of the team. The event was fun. We had a good turnout and it seemed like all the guests enjoyed themselves. One of the main highlights was the fire dancer. He did an awesome job, even if I was nervous the whole time he was up there.
As for it being my first flight with a layover, it was a little stressful, but overall it went pretty well. On the way there, Fran, Bill, Dick and I had about 25 minutes to get across Detroit’s airport to catch our connection. Luckily we made it with about five minutes to spare. My trip home, I was supposed to have 90 minutes between flights but ended up with about four hours. My layover in Minneapolis was supposed to take off at 8:26 p.m. but didn’t end up taking off until 10:30 p.m. There were issues with the plane, and we had to wait for a new crew to come.
Overall, my first trip as part of the team and my first time in L.A. went well. Can’t wait to go back and explore one day!
— Mary Melnick, social media and editorial coordinator
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Dec 25, 2024Coffee Warehouse in Rotterdam to Be New Home of Dutch Photo Museum in 2025
There is no doubt Rotterdam is one of Europe’s most design-friendly cities, especially when it comes to restoring historic buildings for modern uses. One example is the early 20th-century Pakhuis Santos, the Santos “coffee” Warehouse in Rotterdam’s port area. This former coffee warehouse is currently being transformed into the new home of Nederlands Fotomuseum (Dutch Photo Museum) and will reopen to the public in mid-2025. The architectural firms involved in the design and transformation include Renner Hainke Wirth Zirn Architekten from Hamburg, together with WDJARCHITECTEN from Rotterdam.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
Daily
Dec 25, 2024Hyatt Plans for 50-Plus Hotel Openings by 2026
Hyatt recently announced plans to open more than 50 luxury and lifestyle hotels worldwide by 2026. The brand doubled its luxury room count since 2017, further positioning itself as a leader in the hospitality industry. Equally impressive, Hyatt’s lifestyle hotel segment grew by 28 hotels in 2024 alone.
Daily
Dec 25, 2024Burgundy, France, to Welcome New Luxury Hotel in Late 2025
Next year, France’s Burgundy wine region welcomes Château de la Commaraine, a luxury hotel situated within a 12th-century estate. This historic property will be reimagined as a 5-star hotel following a four-year restoration, complete with 37 guestrooms, on-site vineyards, spa, pool, two restaurants and a winery.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
eFlyer News
Dec 25, 2024New Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel Opens in Breckenridge, Colorado
Sage Hospitality recently welcomed Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge, Curio Collection by Hilton, to its award-winning hotel portfolio. The reimagined hotel underwent a top-to-bottom renovation to bring upscale modernity to one of Colorado’s most beloved destinations.
eFlyer News
Dec 25, 2024Air Canada to Offer Free WiFi on Flights
Starting May 2025, Air Canada will offer free WiFi for North American flights, with the free service to debut on long-haul international routes in 2026. WiFi will be sponsored by Bell, which currently partners with Air Canada on the current free WiFi texting service available to Aeroplan members since 2023.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Daily
Dec 24, 2024Discover Art-Inspired Tasty Tipples at The Arts Bar, St. Regis Venice
Art inspires a lot of things in life — and, as it turns out, that includes cocktails. At Arts Bar at St. Regis Venice, art is a multisensory experience that includes tasting delicious libations, viewing the gorgeous setting and feeling the touch of elegant Murano glassware against your lips.
ShareThis