The Places Where We Go Travel Newsletter - February 9, 2026
Happy Day After The Super Bowl Monday. We spent last Friday night slotting in four vacations for 2027, ranging from California to the United Kingdom and points in between.
In general travel news, checked bags are making a comeback. Recent Google search data shows that queries for "checked bags" have surpassed those for carry-ons, with a surge in interest in packing accessories such as vacuum bags. Experts suggest the shift is driven by the rise of airline credit cards that waive these fees and by a younger generation of travelers who view unbundled fees as standard.
Travelers flying with American Airlines are in for a nostalgic treat as the carrier kicks off its centennial celebrations with a new series of retro-inspired dining options. Starting this March for international and transcontinental premium cabins, and expanding to domestic First Class in April, passengers can enjoy classic dishes that harken back to the 1920s. The menu features timeless favorites such as Beef Wellington with bearnaise sauce, Chicken Florentine, and the iconic Waldorf salad. These special culinary offerings, available for preorder starting February 9, are part of a broader centennial campaign that includes a new livery and logo, inviting customers to savor the flavors that defined the early days of aviation while looking forward to the future of travel.
Southwest Airlines is making its coveted Companion Pass easier to earn for a limited time, offering travelers the chance to bring a friend along on flights for free. Through this new promotion, Rapid Rewards members can unlock the perk by booking just one round-trip or two one-way flights by February 5 and completing travel by March 31. The promotional pass is valid for travel between August 10 and October 7, 2026, bypassing the standard requirement of 100 flights or 135,000 qualifying points usually needed to secure this benefit.
Starting this summer, "foolish mortals" can officially tie the knot at two of Disney’s most iconic spooky locations. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons has announced that beginning in July, couples can host intimate, early-morning ceremonies for up to 25 guests on the steps of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion in California.
For those who prefer the open ocean, the Disney Destiny cruise ship will also begin offering weddings inside its Haunted Mansion Parlor starting in May. These exclusive packages include an officiant, décor, photography, and transportation, making them perfect for couples seeking a hauntingly memorable start to their marriage.
Effective now, visiting Rome's iconic Trevi Fountain will require a little more planning—and a small fee. In an effort to manage overcrowding and support monument maintenance, the city has introduced a €2 ($2.11) ticket for tourists wishing to approach the water's edge to toss a coin.
The fee applies to non-residents during peak hours (weekdays 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; weekends 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.), though children under six and individuals with disabilities are exempt. While the surrounding square remains open to all, this new measure joins similar initiatives across Italy, such as Venice's day-tripper tax, aimed at balancing tourism access with preservation.
Heads up, travelers: your next Carnival cruise might cost a bit more starting April 2. The cruise line is raising its daily gratuity rates to $19 per person for suites and $17 for standard staterooms, resulting in a slight increase in the overall cost of a week-long vacation. Additionally, the "Bottomless Bubbles" soda package is seeing a price hike to $11.99 per adult per day, though kids' prices remain unchanged. Carnival attributes these adjustments to rewarding their hardworking crew and managing increased supply costs following a switch to Coca-Cola products.
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Niger, citing severe risks related to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health concerns, and kidnapping.
As of January 30, 2026, non-emergency government employees and their families have been ordered to leave the country, and the U.S. government offers limited consular support outside of Niamey.
A state of emergency exists in many regions, with strict travel restrictions and requirements for military escorts outside the capital due to the high threat of violent crime and terrorist activity targeting Westerners.
With spring just approaching, it's time to think about hitting hiking trails! As avid hikers, we know how important having a reliable pair of hiking boots. Not only can the right pair make or break your outdoor experience, but it can also protect your feet from potential injuries.
Don't forget about trekking poles – these handy tools can help distribute weight and reduce knee strain. Our favorite brand is Black Diamond.
If your hiking gear needs an upgrade, do so now to be ready to hit the trail.
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Featured Place - Gdansk, Poland
Why Visit? Gdansk is a charming city on Poland's Baltic coast known for its rich history and vibrant culture. From its picturesque Old Town, stunning coastline, and impressive museums, Gdansk offers rich experiences for visitors.
Top Things To Do:
Old Town: This part of Gdansk offers charming cobblestone streets, a vibrant market square, and historic architecture.
Museum of the 2nd World War: Immerse yourself in the gripping history of World War II through interactive exhibits and artifacts at this top-rated museum.
Europejskie Centrum Solidarności: Delve into Poland's fight for democracy and solidarity movements at this modern museum dedicated to preserving its cultural heritage. This ranks among the best museums we've ever visited.
Travel Tip: For the best experience, visit Gdansk in the summer when the weather is warm and outdoor events and festivals are happening. Use affordable public transportation or rent a bike to explore the city like a local. Try some traditional pierogi (dumplings) and sample local craft beer to taste authentic Polish cuisine.
Plan A Visit to Virginia City, Nevada: Check out our blog post on Gdansk, Poland 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 August 2026, here are some top things you can consider for your travel itinerary:
February 2026: We have a few Southern California road trips on the calendar.
Spring 2026: Camping and sightseeing in Las Vegas, Nevada.
July 2026: Beach camping in Northern California
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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