Eurostar to launch new service between London and the Netherlands

New high-speed rail service will debut from London’s St. Pancras Station to Amsterdam and Rotterdam starting April 4. The direct service from London will take just 3 hours. Return service will connect through Brussels, where passport control and security screening will occur until a process for passport checks in the Netherlands can be implemented in 2019. Tickets will cost $47 one way and will be available for sale starting Feb. 20.

Proof of Health Insurance soon needed for travel to Ecuador

Effective May 1, 2018, visitors traveling to Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands, will need to provide proof of health insurance plan coverage. The proof of insurance must indicate adequate medical coverage that is valid for the entire duration of the time spent in Ecuador. Additional details regarding this announcement can be found at http://www.turismo.gob.ec/statement-about-foreigners-health-insurance/.

Carlson Rezidor to rebrand as Radisson Hotel Group

Officials at Carlson Rezidor said the hotel group will rebrand itself as Radisson Hotel Group to take advantage of Radisson’s brand recognition. The hotelier will invest up to $184 million to reposition targeted properties while also enhancing the overall guest experience. The Carlson Rezidor portfolio includes over 1,400 hotels located in over 115 countries.

United tests new boarding system

In an attempt to reducing crowding and confusion at boarding, United is testing a new system at Los Angeles International Airport.  At the test gates, United removed the five boarding lanes, which currently can get very congested as passengers like to queue up at the same time to board the aircraft as early as possible. Instead, United will use just 2 boarding lanes. The airline is still calling passengers to board in the same order as before (premier and first-class members followed by those in window, middle then aisle seats). However, later boarding groups will be asked to remain seated until they are called. Priority groups 1 and 2 will be able to board the aircraft any time through the first lane. All other travelers will board via the second lane when their group is called.