If you’re planning a summer getaway, travel experts say the booking window is open right now. According to airfare analysts, the best time to book domestic summer flights is typically three to seven months in advance, while international trips often have a four-to-ten-month sweet spot.
That timing is especially important this year as rising jet fuel prices tied to tensions in the Middle East are adding uncertainty to airfare costs. While higher fuel prices don’t always translate directly into higher ticket prices, they can eventually push fares up if the trend continues. For travelers, that means deals still exist—but waiting too long could mean paying more as the summer travel season approaches.
United Airlines has quietly updated its Contract of Carriage to allow it to remove passengers who play audio or video content without headphones.
The rule, added on February 27, 2026, appears in the airline’s “Refusal of Transport” policy and classifies the behavior as a safety-related concern affecting other passengers or crew. While the change wasn’t publicly announced, it reflects a growing effort by airlines to encourage more considerate behavior in increasingly crowded cabins—something many travelers who’ve endured loud phone videos at 35,000 feet may appreciate.
Southwest Airlines says it is “refining” its newly introduced assigned seating system after widespread customer complaints about boarding confusion, families being separated, and limited overhead bin space.
The airline plans to adjust its boarding group process to better match passengers with overhead storage near their seats while preserving the fast boarding Southwest is known for.
In addition, the carrier will retrofit much of its fleet with larger overhead bins capable of holding up to 50% more bags, with about 70% of aircraft expected to receive the upgrade by the end of 2026. For travelers, the changes signal that Southwest is still fine-tuning a major shift away from its long-standing open seating model.
American Cruise Lines is expanding its Pacific Northwest offerings with a new 16-day “Grand Columbia & Snake Rivers” itinerary launching in 2027. The extended voyage will sail aboard the new riverboat American Anthem and will include a pre-cruise hotel stay in Portland before departing from Stevenson. Travelers will cruise west to Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, then journey east through the scenic Pacific Northwest to the confluence of the Columbia River and Snake River near Richland. For travelers interested in U.S. river cruising, the longer itinerary offers a more immersive way to explore the region’s landscapes, history, and river towns.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 2 travel advisory urging travelers to confirm their polio vaccinations before visiting several destinations where the virus has been detected within the past year.
The advisory includes countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe—including Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, Finland, and Poland. While polio remains rare in the United States thanks to routine vaccinations, international travel can increase the risk of exposure if outbreaks occur elsewhere.
The CDC recommends that travelers ensure they are fully vaccinated, and adults who previously completed the vaccine series may consider a one-time booster before visiting affected destinations.
The Jamaica Tourist Board has unveiled a new spring promotion called “You Need a Reason. We’ve Got Deals,” offering limited-time travel discounts available through March 31. Travelers can find rotating offers on the Visit Jamaica deals hub, created through partnerships with major airlines and vacation providers.
Packages range from airfare-and-hotel bundles to all-inclusive getaways, with some starting at just a few hundred dollars per person. The campaign highlights the island’s diverse travel experiences—from beaches and adventure activities to cultural events—making spring an especially appealing time to visit Jamaica.
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory for the United Arab Emirates following rising tensions and the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, 2026.
Travelers should also be aware of potential disruptions to commercial flights across the region. While the UAE remains a major international travel hub—especially cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi—Americans planning trips should closely monitor developments, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and review travel insurance and contingency plans before visiting.
When planning a trip, travelers often wonder whether it’s smarter to pay extra for a refundable airline ticket or invest in travel insurance.
A refundable fare offers simple protection for your flight—you can cancel and get your airfare back—but it often costs significantly more and doesn’t cover hotels, tours, cruises, or other prepaid expenses.
Comprehensive plans can reimburse travelers for cancellations due to illness, emergencies, or weather disruptions, while also covering medical care abroad, trip delays, lost baggage, and missed connections. For bigger trips—especially international vacations, cruises, or honeymoons—travel insurance typically provides broader protection at a lower cost than upgrading to a refundable ticket.
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Featured Place - Liverpool
Why Visit? Liverpool, England is known for its rich history, iconic attractions such as the Beatles Story Museum and the Cavern Club, and stunning waterfront views along the River Mersey. The city offers an exciting local music scene and great history.
Top Things To Do:
The Beatles Story Museum: Experience the birthplace of one of the most iconic bands in history with an immersive journey through their story.
Albert Dock: This beautiful waterfront area is filled with shops, restaurants, and museums, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Anfield Stadium Tour: For all the football fans out there, a tour of Liverpool FC's home ground is a must-do activity.
Travel Tip: Visit Liverpool during the summer months to enjoy its many outdoor festivals and events. Getting around Liverpool is easy with public transportation, but don't forget to take a ferry ride on the Mersey River for a different perspective of the city.
Plan Your Visit: Check out our blog post on Liverpool 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 September 2026, here are some top things you can consider for your travel itinerary:
Venice International Film Festival – Venice, Italy – Held around early September, this prestigious film festival screens major premieres on the Lido and fills Venice with filmmakers and cinephiles. (September 2-12, 2026)
U.S. Open Tennis Tournament - New York - Experience the electrifying atmosphere of the U.S. Open in New York where world-class tennis meets late-summer city energy and unforgettable fan experiences. (August 23 - September 13, 2026)
✈️ Don’t miss out on incredible travel savings.
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Spring 2026: Adventures at Disneyland Resort in California
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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