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TRANSPORT / FILM TRAVEL
Travel Strikes For Jan-Feb, Across 5 European Countries

All travellers going to UK, Italy, Germany, Finland during Jan & Feb. The countries are throwing a strike party for trains, airports, & other public transport. Pack Your Patience & Check below for exact dates & timings, to avoid the hassel.

UK: Train drivers call rolling strike

• Members of the Aslef union have called a rolling schedule of one-day strikes and an overtime ban between 30 January and 5 February.

Italy: Nationwide public transport strike in Italy

• A 24-hour public transport strike will hit Italy nationwide on 24 January. It could cause significant disruption for commuters using buses, trams and subways but is not expected to impact regional and long distance trains.

On the same day, air traffic controllers are set to walk out from 1-5pm, potentially causing delays and cancellations for travellers flying to and from Italy.

Meanwhile, on 23 January, taxi drivers in Rome will stage a 24-hour strike over increased licence fees.

Germany: Train drivers announce week-long strike

• Train drivers in Germany will go on strike from 24 January-29 January.

The walkout will begin at 2am on Wednesday and continue until 6pm on Monday. It is the latest in a series of strikes in a long running dispute with train operator Deutsche Bahn over hours, pay and working conditions.

'Open-ended strikes' could hit Germany's rail network in the coming months if an agreement is not reached in the next collective bargaining negotiations.

Finland: Airports to be hit by strikes

• Members of Finland's JHL union, which represents around 12,000 airport workers, have announced a 48-hour strike on 1-2 February.

National carrier Finnair says it expects the walkout to have a significant impact on flights. If you have a flight booked between 31 January and 3 February, the airline will allow you to travel earlier or postpone your trip up until 15 March

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Happening
Your Weekly Travel Roundup about the best of travels

Updates

1. Thinking of a vacation in Myanmar? The U.S. Department says it a "Level 4: Do Not Travel" rating due to a military conflict & spontaneous violent acts on the itinerary – Your couch is looking pretty appealing right now, huh?

2. Want to learn a martial art in the morning & relax on the beach in the evenings ? Thailand's new Muay Thai visa is made for you, for a longer period of 90 days, giving you more time to perfect your roundhouse kicks.

3. If you’re thinking of going to Cancun - authorities are cracking down on unregulated airbnb owners. Stay sharp as there are about 14,000 units for tourists, & you don’t want to sleep on the beach if your place to get sanctioned.

Adventures & Experiences

🌸 CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL - If you’re thinking of traveling to Japan as millions are doing, you might catch the famous cherry blossoms earlier than usual, as per Japan Meteorological Corporation.
Tokyo is gearing up for floral magic around March 23, with the grand bloom spectacle hitting on March 30.
Down in Kochi Prefecture, blossoms plan to pop up by March 18, while the northern Hokkaido region takes its sweet time until May 2.
Kyoto, always fashionably late, unveils its blooms starting March 23, with the grand show in early April.
But here's the kicker - mark those dates in pencil because weather wizards have a habit of changing their minds; in 2023, they did it 13 times, coming within a mere 2.1 days of hitting the bloom bullseye!

🔑 NOT A TRAIN - Picture this: a hotel on a bridge in Kruger National Park, where you can literally wake up to the wild side!
Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge (as shown in these pics) is not a train & neither it’s your average staycation spot. They've transformed these train carriages into 24 swanky suites with balconies and a pool that gives you front-row seats to the Sabie River action. where you can literally wake up to the wild side! Yep, we're talking lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos—the whole VIP lineup of Africa's "Big Five."
It's luxury meets safari, and trust me, you haven't seen a hotel this wild!

👀 NEW PIN IN - Tokyo Bay's got a hot date with excitement on March 1 with the grand opening of Japan's first immersive theme park – 'Immersive Fort Tokyo' on Odaiba! Brace yourself for 12 attractions that'll redefine your idea of a good time. From epic hour-long theatre experiences to full-blown horror shows, this theme park is not just a park – it's a thrill-seeker's paradise. Click here for full list.
Anime lovers can enjoy ‘Tokyo Revengers’-themed escape room. Thrill seekers should make a beeline for Jack the Ripper horror maze.
Grab a one-day Casual pass for ¥6,800.

Deals

• Deal - A Welcome Offer Worth Over $5,500.

• Stay Cheaper - With 100% Bonus on Hilton Points.

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• 📰 Read - Flight Cancelled ? Here are the airlines that had the fewest delays in 2023

• 👁️‍🗨️ Watch - The Most Striking Travel Photographs Of The Year

• 😲 React - Would You Wait 43 Years For Your Order ?

MY TRAVEL BUCKETLIST
Colors Of The Caribbean

📍 Old San Juan, 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico
Over 53,000 Excellent Tripadvisor Reviews

Welcome to Old San Juan, nestled on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico, this gem stands out for its iconic pastel buildings, centuries-old forts, which have stood guard over the city for over five centuries. Get ready to be captivated by the fusion of Caribbean vibrancy and Old World charm, as you explore the enchanting nooks and crannies of a city.

Stroll Along El Morro: Begin your day with a leisurely walk along the historic El Morro fortress. Marvel at the stunning views of the turquoise waters, and soak in the rich history of this 16th-century citadel.

Indulge in Mofongo: Head to a local eatery for a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine. Don't miss trying mofongo, a delicious dish made from mashed plantains, garlic, and other savory ingredients.

Take a Paseo del Morro Walk: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Paseo del Morro trail, where you'll be surrounded by the beauty of the coastline. It's a perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll or some solo contemplation.

Cathedral of San Juan Bautista: Step into the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the second oldest cathedral in the Americas. The stunning architecture and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful break from the bustling streets.

Art Appreciation at Paseo de la Princesa: Immerse yourself in the local art scene by strolling down Paseo de la Princesa. The street is lined with sculptures, murals, and galleries that showcase Puerto Rico's rich artistic heritage.

Shop at Calle Fortaleza: Find unique souvenirs and local crafts along Calle Fortaleza. From handmade jewelry to traditional Puerto Rican masks, this street is a treasure trove of cultural finds.

Here are 2 other destinations that complement your San Juan, experience:

1. El Yunque National Forest: Nature's Haven - Nestled just a short drive from Old San Juan, El Yunque National Forest offers a striking contrast to the vibrant city life. Immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, where hiking trails lead to cascading waterfalls, and the sounds of exotic birds create a serene soundtrack.

2. Luquillo Beach: Sun, Sand, and Seafood - For those seeking sun-soaked relaxation, pair your Old San Juan adventure with a visit to Luquillo Beach. Just east of the city, this palm-fringed paradise boasts golden sands and clear blue waters. After navigating the colorful streets of Old San Juan, unwind on Luquillo Beach and indulge in the local beachside cuisine, featuring freshly caught seafood.

Your itinerary could look something like this:

✔️ DAY 1-3

• Day 1: Old San Juan

  • Morning: Explore Castillo San Cristóbal

  • Afternoon: Stroll down Calle Fortaleza

  • Evening: Dinner at Marmalade Restaurant

  Day 2: Luquillo Beach

  • Morning: Travel to Luquillo Beach

  • Afternoon: Sunbathe and swim

  • Evening: Enjoy seafood at Boardriders

  Day 3: El Yunque National Forest

  • Morning: Hike La Mina Trail

  • Afternoon: Discover La Coca Falls

  • Evening: Dinner at El Verde BBQ

Recent Review - Spent the first 2 nights of our 7 night vacay in old San Juan and it was the best decision. Excellent restaurants, easily walkable, so much history, art, museums… highly recommend!

This itinerary is a general guide, you’re free to choose activities based on your preferences, travel pace, and local conditions. Be sure to check weather conditions & consult with local guides for the most accurate information.

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TRAVEL & BEYOND
Staying Connected with the world beyond your travels..

1. Oscars Snubs, Surprises & More.

2. Palworld Breaks Records, Devs Gets Deaththreats.

3. Taylor Swift Stalker Gets Arrested For The 3rd Time.

GUESS THE PLACE

This Country
Goes On Strikes The Most

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Last week’s answer to:
This Place Holds The Least Powerful Passport In The World - Afghanistan

• Afghanistan has had a turbulent history, including a series of foreign invasions, violent coups, ethnic and religious conflicts, and a proliferation of terrorist organizations.

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