The Places Where We Go Travel Newsletter - January 19, 2026
Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We enjoyed taking in a hockey game at Crypto Arena in Los Angeles over the weekend as the Anaheim Ducks took on the Los Angeles Kings in an overtime thriller. This week, we're looking forward to completing our calendar with Spring travel plans.
Starting February 1, 2026, the TSA is rolling out a new option called TSA ConfirmID to help keep your travel plans on track. If you haven't snagged your REAL ID yet (or forget it at home), don't panic—you can still catch your flight! For a $45 fee, you can use this handy alternative identity verification system right at the checkpoint. Just remember to plan ahead, as using this option might add a little extra time to your security screening. But hey, it’s a small price to pay to ensure your next journey takes off without a hitch!
Get ready to upgrade your in-flight dining experience! United Airlines now allows Economy passengers to preorder fresh, delicious meals like the Steakhouse Burger or Tacos Al Pastor directly through their app or website. This new system guarantees you get the meal you crave while helping the airline reduce food waste by an estimated 100,000 pounds annually. Here is the scoop on securing your next meal at 30,000 feet:
Eligibility: Available on flights over 1,190 miles within the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Timing: You can reserve your meal between 5 days and 24 hours before your departure.
Important Change: Starting March 1, preordering will be the only way to purchase fresh entrees in the Economy cabin (though snack boxes will still be available for onboard purchase).
AirAdvisor just dropped their 2026 rankings for the worst-performing airlines in Europe, and the results are definitely eye-opening.
While ultra-low-cost carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair took expected hits for comfort and strict policies, legacy carriers aren't off the hook either—Air Europa and LOT Polish Airlines actually landed at the very bottom due to major reliability issues.
The study confirms that while we all love a cheap ticket, constant delays and cancellations are the ultimate travel buzzkill. Before you lock in that dream trip to Rome or Paris, take a peek at the reliability scores to ensure your journey is just as enjoyable as the destination!
Starting June 25, 2026, a brand-new long-distance train service will connect the Polish-Ukrainian border directly to Germany. Operated by Leo Express, this exciting 800-mile route starts in Przemyśl and stops in cultural hubs like Kraków and Prague before reaching Frankfurt Airport. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore multiple countries in one seamless journey, and tickets are already on sale for those planning their future European escapades.
The U.S. State Department has officially lowered its travel advisory for Jamaica to Level 2, making it an even more enticing destination for your next Caribbean getaway.
While visitors are still encouraged to exercise increased caution due to some local crime and health infrastructure challenges, this update is a positive signal for tourism on the island.
Just remember to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid specific high-risk zones so you can focus on what matters most—soaking up the sun, culture, and incredible vibes of Jamaica!
Your Adventure Agenda - Travel Tips
Top Passport Tips
Even the most intrepid explorers can hit a snag, but don't let a paperwork mishap delay your next great adventure! We've learned that a little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring your journey is memorable for all the right reasons. To keep your travels seamless and stress-free, here are the essential documentation tips you need to know before you head to the airport:
Watch the expiration date: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date to avoid boarding denials.
Inspect for damage: Keep your passport in pristine condition, as water damage or torn pages can render it invalid.
Count your blank pages: Verify you have at least two to four blank pages remaining for those coveted entry stamps and visas.
Research visa requirements: Always double-check the specific visa and ETA rules for your destination, as these can change frequently.
Grab a Passport Card: Consider getting a wallet-sized Passport Card as a convenient, REAL ID-compliant alternative for domestic flying.
Stick to official sources: Avoid scams and extra fees by only using official government websites for renewals and applications.
Back it up: Save the day in an emergency by keeping both digital scans and physical copies of your itinerary and ID.
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Featured Place - Camp Verde, Arizona
Why Visit? Camp Verde, Arizona is a hidden gem in the heart of central Arizona. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. This charming place has a small-town atmosphere and warm hospitality, providing travelers with an authentic Arizona experience. It was our home base while we visited nearby Sedona.
Top Things To Do:
Explore the ancient ruins of Montezuma Castle National Monument, a four-story cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago.
Perfect for all skill levels, this excursion combines breathtaking scenic views with the freedom to paddle at your own pace. Starting from Camp Verde, you'll receive all the necessary equipment and a brief instructional session to ensure you’re ready for the journey.
Travel Tip: The best time to visit Camp Verde, Arizona, is when the weather is cooler – fall through early spring. If you're driving, take Highway 260 from Phoenix for a scenic route through Tonto National Forest. Don't forget to stop by the local visitor center for insider tips and recommendations on where to eat, stay, and play in Camp Verde.
Plan A Visit to Camp Verde, Arizona: Check out our Camp Verde, Arizona blog post for more ideas and tips to plan your trip.
Planning Ahead - Top Events in Six Months
We’re big on planning travel, typically six months in advance. With an eye on July 2026, here are some top things you can consider for your travel itinerary:
National Cherry Festival — Traverse City celebrates cherry season with parades, air shows, tastings, and waterfront events along Lake Michigan (July 4-11, 2026).
Love International Music Festival in Tisno, Croatia brings a signature blend of house, techno, and disco across multiple stages, boat parties, and Barbarella's Discotheque, continuing the spirit of The Garden Festival (July 8-14, 2026)
January 2026: We'll be exploring museums and sights throughout Los Angeles.
Spring 2026: Camping near Joshua Tree National Park.
January 2027: The NHL Winter Classic in Utah
Now is the time to start marking your calendar for your future bucket list adventures. If you have travel questions, feel free to reach out to us. You can reach us at comments@theplaceswherewego.com
Happy travels, and we hope to see you at The Places Where We Go.
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