Travel
This book is the perfect gift for an AvGeek or outer space enthusiast
If you have an AvGeek, an outer space enthusiast or an avid reader in your life and you can’t decide what to give them as a holiday gift, consider buying this new book by photographer Ted Huetter. In “Waiting for Spaceships: Scenes from a Desert Community in Love with the Space Shuttle,” Huetter documents the thousands of people who would gather to welcome the space shuttles on their return to Earth.
For 30 years — from April 12, 1982, to July 21, 2011 — five orbiters flew in space for NASA’s Space Transportation System, or space shuttle, program. These orbiters were Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantic and Endeavour. (A sixth space shuttle, Enterprise, was a test vehicle that didn’t go into space.)
NASA proudly notes that the space shuttles flew 135 missions. Not only did they repeatedly carry people into orbit, but they also “launched, recovered and repaired satellites, conducted cutting-edge research and built the largest structure in space, the International Space Station.”
While all the space shuttle missions took off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, more than 50 of those missions landed in the Mojave Desert at Edwards Air Force Base in California — about 100 miles from Los Angeles.
“Some spectators came because they had helped build the shuttles,” Huetter wrote. He noted that while many viewers came from greater Los Angeles, “adventurous retirees from around the country made Florida to California treks in the recreational vehicles, book ending the trips with the shuttle launch and landing.”
He added: “The only snag was that they had to watch [the landings] from a harsh patch of desert about three miles from the runway.”
To accommodate the enthusiastic and dedicated spectators, the Air Force would open an authorized viewing site a day before each scheduled shuttle landing where people could set up camp.
Huetter reported that at that remote site, the military directed traffic and supplied tanks of potable water, portable sanitary facilities, generators, streetlights, a first aid station and a command post. He added that they “generally kept a low profile and a friendly presence.”
Huetter was working in LA and made the trek to the desert to camp with the shuttle aficionados for eight of the space shuttle landings during the 1980s. He began with STS-4, the fourth mission for the space shuttle Columbia, which landed at Edwards Air Force Base on July 4, 1982. STS-4 was also the fourth shuttle mission overall and the final test flight before the program was deemed officially operational.
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“I was there as a fan like most of the people at the public landing site, to experience some spaceflight history,” in person instead of watching it on TV, Huetter said.
For each shuttle landing adventure, Huetter packed his camera gear along with his camping gear. The photographs he took during those trips not only document a unique slice of the Space Age but also show the viewing site and the people who gravitated to it year after year.
“I quickly fell in love with the photogenic environment of the site and the people there,” Huetter said. He explained that every time he returned to the site, his first motivation was as a space nerd and the second was as a photographer.
That pairing worked well. From 1982 through 1989, Huetter documented what he describes as the site’s “quiet beauty, quirky charm, and unabashed displays of Americana” over the course of eight shuttle landing forays.
His images, taken with film in the era before digital cameras, show the landing runways alongside a diverse range of RVs and tents; food and souvenir vendors; and a diverse group of people waiting, mingling, enjoying themselves and welcoming the shuttles home. His selected shots are organized to create a composite of 24 hours at the campsite, from the arrival of the first campers to the touchdown of the shuttles.
“Waiting for Spaceships: Scenes from a Desert Community in Love with the Space Shuttle” includes a foreword by pilot and veteran NASA astronaut Tom Jones. It’s available from Amazon for about $25 and from other booksellers.
Want to see the retired space shuttles? Here’s where you can find them.
Space shuttle Atlantis is at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Merritt Island, Florida. The vehicle is displayed in flight, along with dozens of interactive exhibits about the history, technology and impact of NASA’s space shuttle program.
Space shuttle Discovery is on view at the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.
Space shuttle Endeavour is at the California Science Center in LA. However, it is off-view while construction of a 200,000-square-foot addition to the main building is underway.
Space shuttle Enterprise, NASA’s prototype orbiter, is at the Intrepid Museum in New York City.
Space shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after takeoff Jan. 28, 1986. Space shuttle Columbia disintegrated while returning to Earth on Feb. 1, 2003.
Hidden in plain sight in Innsbruck, Weinhaus Tyrol is known to locals but still flying under the radar of most tourists. It’s the kind of place you dream of stumbling upon, and offers an intimate private dining and wine tasting experience.
Inside, there’s an extensive display of wines, a bar and occasional barrels used as make-shift tables to enjoy a drink or two.
At the end of this corridor and down a few steps, is a small converted cellar. With its arched ceiling, stone walls half-clad in plaster and dimly-lit ambience, it exudes a rustic charm and enjoys various quaint details.
Now I don’t profess to be a wine connoisseur, but I do enjoy a glass or two, and here we were in for a treat – this wasn’t just a dinner and a few glasses of wine, but an invitation to slow down, savour and be immersed into the culinary soul of Tyrol.
A member of staff introduces our first wine to us – it’s the Schmidl Grüner Veltliner Steinfeder Ried Alte Point. The Schmidl winery is a traditional family-run estate in the Wachau, known for its respectful approach to nature and its pursuit of the highest quality. The family cultivates their vineyards in a natural way and relies on sustainable farming methods to reflect the unique terroir of the Wachau. It’s light and fresh with notes of green apple, citrus fruits, and a hint of white pepper.
A generous spread of local cheeses, a selection of perfectly cured meats and a basket of bread are brought through for us to enjoy our wines with, arranged with a rustic elegance that spoke of tradition rather than showmanship, but was nevertheless delicious.
Next up is the Müller Thurgau (a cross between Riesling and Madeleine Royale) from Weinhof Tangl, one of only 13 official wineries in Tyrol. It’s fruity and aromatic with aromas of nutmeg, pear and fresh herbs. The climate in Tyrol differs significantly from that of its southern neighbour. Despite having the same amount of sunshine hours as many cities in South Tyrol, the region experiences more frost nights, which greatly influence grape ripening and wine structure. Weinhof Tangl has been passionately run by the family for generations and their focus is on a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
Our third white wine of the evening is another from the Schmidl winery – a Schmidl Riesling Smaragd Küss den Pfennig. Powerful and complex, it has aromas of ripe peach, apricot and a fine minerality. The Schmidl winery is renowned for its excellent Rieslings, which reflect the unique terroir of the Wachau. The name “Küss den Pfennig” (“Kiss the Penny”) refers to a centuries-old tradition and the great value the family places on every detail of wine production.
At this point, the cheese platter – adorned with grapes, figs and wlanuts – offers a welcome balance, helping to complement the wine and absorb some of the alcohol. Tyrol is renowned for its exceptional dairy products, particularly cheeses like Tiroler Bergkäse. The superior quality is largely due to the cows grazing on the pristine mountain pastures, which enhance the flavour of the milk.
Our next wine hails from the only winery located in a European capital city — the Edelmose winery in Vienna which has a history of over 600 years. Since the Middle Ages, winemaking has been pursued there with great dedication, with historic vineyards situated on the foothills of the Vienna Woods. The unique location in the heart of a vibrant city creates an unmistakable terroir and makes Edelmose a true institution in Viennese winemaking. The Edelmoser Rosé de Vienne is made from Zweigelt and Pinot Noir grapes – it’s fresh and fruity with aromas of red berries, cherry and a hint of floral notes.
And then it’s on to our first red of the evening with the Ernst Zweigelt Deutschkreuz (Zweigelt is an Austrian cross between Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent, known for its fruit-driven and spicy red wines with soft tannins). The Ernst winery is located in Deutschkreuz, the heart of Blaufränkisch country in Burgenland, and is known for its characterful red wines. The Ernst family focuses on natural cultivation, sustainable wine production, and authentic wines that perfectly reflect the region’s terroir. The Seewinkel region is characterized by unique geological and climatic conditions that are of great importance for viticulture. The seasonal drying of the saline lakes creates specific soil conditions that impart a mineral and salty note to the wines. It’s bold and spicy with notes of dark cherries, berries and a subtle touch of vanilla.
It seems there’s another wine waiting for us, but by now, we’ve had our fill. Each wine had been exquisite but what made the experience truly special was the ambience and sense of exclusivity, and – of course – good company. For anyone visiting Innsbruck, Weinhaus Tyrol is an absolute must-visit.
Disclosure: Our trip was sponsored by Innsbruck Tourism.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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I may be biased, but as a born-and-raised Floridian, I can confidently say the Sunshine State is one of the best places to vacation in the United States. The draw of Southwest Florida has always been undeniable: serene beaches, picturesque sunsets and tropical weather nearly all year-round, with less-crowded beaches than what you might see in other Florida vacation spots like Daytona or Miami.
And now, nestled along Florida’s pristine Gulf Coast, comes Marriott’s newest Florida resort, the St. Regis Longboat Key. With impeccable service and luxury accommodations, the property takes everything there is to love about a Florida vacation and elevates it.
While the price for a stay here can be quite steep, this hotel can certainly be more attainable if you’re willing to save up your Marriott Bonvoy points. Here’s what it’s like to stay at the St. Regis Longboat Key — and why it earned a spot on our list of the best new hotels in 2024.
Related: The best St. Regis hotels for the most luxurious hotel stays
What is the St. Regis Longboat Key?
Celebrated as the most significant development in the region in more than 50 years, the St. Regis Longboat Key was one of the most anticipated hotel openings in 2024. It also marks a major milestone for Marriott — its 9,000th property.
The resort features 168 rooms and suites, a 20,000-square-foot spa, a beachfront lazy river and a 350,000-gallon lagoon filled with 2,800 tropical fish — all spread across 18 acres of prime beachfront real estate.
The hotel’s design is rich with tributes to Florida’s natural elements and wildlife, as well as the legacy of circus magnate John Ringling and the Ringing Brothers, including contemporary nods like elegant rope-clad chandeliers and an oval-shaped ballroom that resembles a circus tent. Even the suites continue the long-held St. Regis tradition of being named to honor prominent women who have called the surrounding area home, including Mable Ringling and Lora Whitney.
True to St. Regis form, the hotel is equipped with an extensive array of top-notch amenities and its signature butler service.
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How to book the St. Regis Longboat Key
The St. Regis Longboat Key offers nine different room and suite types. Rates for superior rooms, which average around 470 square feet and have partial water views, start at roughly $930, or 102,000 Marriott points, per night during peak months. Deluxe and grand deluxe rooms, on the other hand, have ocean views and encompass around 545 square feet. Deluxe rooms start at roughly $1,014, or 124,000 Marriott points, and grand deluxe accommodations begin at $1,161 or 154,000 Marriott points.
Then there are the 26 oceanfront suites that range from one- to four-bedroom options, all boasting what I can confirm are absolutely breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico that you can enjoy from your private terrace. When checking various dates throughout the calendar, suite availability for point redemption can vary depending on the season, but expect them to have starting costs of around 400,000 Marriott points or $4,000 per night for a one-bedroom suite.
When booking the St. Regis Longboat Key, you’ll want to use one of the credit cards that earn the most points for Marriott stays, and one that offers automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status for value-added benefits. These include:
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Platinum Elite status; and 25 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Gold Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Gold Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Gold Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Silver Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Silver Elite status; and 5 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The location
As soon as we approached the St. Regis, it felt like we’d entered an exclusive island getaway; it is one of the few hotels you’ll find on Sarasota’s barrier islands. There were staff outside, ready to greet us by name (with warm towels and Champagne, might I add) as soon we pulled up to the valet. Once we passed through the oversized lobby doors, we were immediately welcomed by a sparkling mosaic St. Regis logo on the floor. When we looked up, our gaze went straight to the grandiose floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the Gulf of Mexico.
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If you’re traveling to the St. Regis by air, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is the nearest airport. Airport transfers are not available, but the resort is just a 20-minute drive away and costs around $30 to $50 via taxi or ride-hailing service.
For a wider selection of flights, you might prefer landing at Tampa International Airport (TPA). However, the drive will take about an hour and a half, and you can expect to pay around $200 for a taxi or ride-hailing service, so you may want to rent a car instead. Valet parking at the St. Regis is $55 daily, with electric car charging stations available.
Besides soaking up the sun at one of St. Regis’s multiple pools or its private beach, guests can take a short eight-minute drive to St. Armand’s Circle, a bustling outdoor shopping and dining district that is well on its way to recovery following Hurricane Helene.
The resort is also just a bridge away from downtown Sarasota. You can venture downtown for various dining and nightlife options in a laid-back, beachy atmosphere. I highly recommend visiting the nearby Ringling Museum, which provides an enriching cultural excursion, showcasing diverse art collections and beautifully manicured gardens. With its pink-walled exterior and Italian-style design, the museum looks like a literal palace from the Renaissance period — and is also the perfect place to capture an Instagram picture of your travels.
The museum has 21 galleries, so plan to spend a few hours wandering through the different exhibits. You’ll be glad you did.
Rooms at the St. Regis Longboat Key
After check-in, I was escorted by our butler, Jennifer, up to the third floor to our suite, which was furnished and designed with neutral hues, like grays and creams, as well as organic textures that felt cohesive with the resort’s contemporary coastal aesthetic.
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An oval marble dining table with a sweet welcome treat was waiting for me: a chocolate turtle placed in a pool float with a pink signature pattern designed just for the St. Regis Longboat Key.
Beyond that is a generously sized living area with a large flat-screen TV and ample seating. And like the rest of the resort, the room’s true standout feature has to be the floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the terrace, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Before entering the bedroom, you walk through the hallway closet with several amenities, including the St. Regis’s signature robes and slippers, a safe, an iron and even a specialty laundry bag just for your swimsuit. The staff also noticed my husband and I had glasses, so they added some St. Regis-branded glasses cleaner on one of our closet shelves later that day.
The bathroom was like a tranquil spa retreat in itself.
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On one side, a discreet wash closet housed the toilet, while the other held a rainfall shower equipped with a handheld shower wand. Adjacent to the dual-vanity sink on the left was a deep soaking tub that invited relaxation.
Great food and even better service
There is plenty to choose from when it comes to eateries and bars at the St. Regis Longboat Key. The resort’s seven dining venues are diverse and vibrant, with each one offering a unique culinary experience. From an indoor steakhouse with a hidden speakeasy to a rooftop Japanese-fusion lounge overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, each dining option offered its own unique experience, complete with curated decor, making it a memorable and can’t-miss part of the guest experience.
Riva
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Named after the Italian word for “shore,” Riva is the premier Italian restaurant on the property and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu combines imported Italian specialties and local ingredients, from olives and prosciutto to fresh burrata and daily catches, ensuring authentic flavors.
Our first meal here was at lunch, where we tried the whipped ricotta ($8) and lemony borlotti (cranberry bean) hummus ($8) appetizers, both served with freshly made focaccia.
We enjoyed our lunch so much the first day that we also chose to have both breakfast meals at Riva. I had the sfoglina breakfast ($24), which comes with two eggs any style, hash browns, choice of meat, roasted tomato and toast. I’m a creature of habit when it comes to my coffee, and I ordered an iced vanilla latte ($8) each morning, which was delicious each time. The next time we ate here, I craved something more indulgent, so I opted for the Riva waffle ($19), topped with Nutella, caramelized bananas and blueberries.
Aura
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For poolside or in-restaurant dining and tropical cocktails, Aura is the place to be. While we didn’t have time for an entire meal here, some of the favorites among staff are the beef barbacoa tacos ($24) and the grouper ($26) served with mojito tartar, marinated tomatoes, lettuce and fennel and apple salad.
However, we did enjoy the guacamole ($15) poolside, which was not too dense and not too creamy but packed with flavor. I also loved that it didn’t just come with tortilla chips but crispy plantains and cassava chips as well. I could have gone for several rounds of this!
CW Prime
The crown jewel of dining at the St. Regis, CW Prime, blew me away from the moment we arrived.
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Before dinner, we spent a little time in the small speakeasy known as the Spirit Room. Here, there’s a discreet button that reveals an exclusive cocktail unique to that venue. Think before you push, though, as the exclusive secret cocktail, the Caroline 400, runs $400 a glass. And no, that isn’t a typo.
After drinks, we were seated in the main dining room for what would be a meal to remember.
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We started with crispy potato pave ($22), which features warm, crispy layers of potato with truffle aioli, pickled pearl onions and fresh truffle. We also had the crispy, fresh CW Caesar ($21) that was easily big enough to split — it can be plated separately to make sharing easier.
Our amazing server, Topher, didn’t just go over the menu but explained the concepts behind different dishes and what makes them great. I wholeheartedly think that the storytelling made each dish taste even better.
For our entrees, steak dishes were the obvious choice, seeing that they are cooked on a Josper grill. We got the 14-ounce dry-aged prime strip loin ($85), and it was cooked to absolute perfection. Expectations were high, and it was juicy and full of flavor.
Then there was the CW Prime Burger ($50), which I can confidently say was one of the best burgers I have ever tasted. It was topped with wagyu beef bacon, tomato preserve, shallot jam and aged cheddar, all between a house-made cronut bun. I still think about that burger to this day.
Oshen
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I couldn’t decide what I loved more about this rooftop lounge: the views or the burst of flavor from each course. I especially liked the mixed seafood ceviche ($25) and selection of sushi ($24-$28 per roll). Thanks to simple preparations and fresh ingredients, each dish tasted ultrafresh and flavorful.
Here, you’ll also find a talented cast of mixologists who serve up some delicious fusion-inspired cocktails and zero-proof drinks all night long. While every single cocktail I tried impressed me, the Edo Old-Fashioned made with Mars Shinshu Iwai whisky, five-spice bitters and Okinawan brown sugar syrup ($23) was definitely my favorite.
The St. Regis Bar
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Located in the heart of the lobby is the St. Regis Bar, which itself is an art piece with a soft pink and gold hand-painted mural that stretches around the bar and cascades onto the ceiling. A glass of Moet & Chandon Champagne is $35, which gives guests just a taste (literally) of the luxury that’s to come.
Every night at sunset, the St. Regis Bar holds their evening ritual: a Champagne sabering. The tradition at St. Regis dates back to 1904 when John Jacob Astor IV inaugurated the New York City St. Regis by ceremoniously sabering a bottle of Champagne. Nowadays, this custom is celebrated nightly at St. Regis properties around the world, and Longboat Key is no different. And sometimes, they even let guests saber the bottle, including yours truly — with supervision, of course.
Monkey Bar
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The local favorite beachfront Monkey Bar, instrumental to the legacy of The Colony Hotel, where the St. Regis now stands, has been revitalized. Accessible to both St. Regis guests and locals through a beachside entrance, the bar offers a contemporary take on tiki cocktails while also providing an array of light snacks. Among them is the Murf and Surf Dog ($34), a tribute to The Colony’s Murf Klauber and the renowned Murf Dog. This updated version of the classic hot dog is decadently garnished with a luxury twist: generous chunks of lobster.
An array of pools, private cabanas and a winding river await
Located in the resort’s central courtyard is an area aptly named “The Pools.”
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The main Resort Pool is family-friendly, surrounded by luxury loungers and has a large jacuzzi with plenty of space for multiple people.
The adults-only Serenity Pool is further away and located a few steps away from Monkey Bar and Aura. It has a cascading waterfall and is a perfect retreat for those seeking a quieter escape.
You can also choose to spend the day at the resort’s private beach, where guests can use two luxury loungers included as part of your daily resort fee. The best part? You can still expect the same high level of service you would get at the pools.
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There’s also the property’s lazy river, or as the St. Regis prefers to call it, the winding river. I was able to grab one of the single inner tubes (double tubes are also available) branded with the resort’s signature print and float along.
Although it was not accessible during my stay, there is a cavern tucked beneath the waterfall of the winding river, where Champagne can be summoned with the press of a button.
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Private cabanas also dot the area, with reservation prices ranging from $250 to $550 daily. After browsing online, however, I found that during peak holiday times like Christmas week, prices can spike from $800 to $1,000 for the day.
When we arrived at the pools, our butler, Jennifer, escorted us to our cabana, nestled in the middle of the winding river on the turfed Mangrove Island. It offered comfortable seating that could easily fit up to eight people, a flat-screen TV, bottled water and plenty of towels. There was also a safe and a small refrigerator filled with sodas and nonalcoholic drinks. You also get a dedicated pool butler for the day, a first-of-its-kind offering for the St. Regis resort brand.
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A poolside menu for Aura was also in our cabana. It’s also just a few steps away from the pools if you prefer to sit inside the restaurant for lunch. We ordered the chips and guacamole, which was the perfect appetizer to enjoy while lounging in the Florida sun.
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Whether you opt for a lounge chair or rent a private cabana, getting top-notch service is as easy as pushing a button. Each chair has a small St.Regis-branded wood box with two buttons inside, one to call for food and beverage and the other for concierge services.
Relax at the St. Regis Spa
The St. Regis Spa spans an impressive 20,000 square feet, presenting guests with an experience that begins at their unique Celebration Bar. Upon approval, I was welcomed with a complimentary glass of Champagne, setting the tone for what would come.
The spa is a haven of tranquility, offering a broad spectrum of nature-inspired treatments with avant-garde skincare technology. The spa also has an exclusive partnership with La Mer and is one of the only two spas in the country to do so.
Prior to my treatment, I visited the hydrothermal area, which is available to anyone with a treatment booked, to loosen my muscles. It has plenty of amenities, including a Finnish sauna, a eucalyptus steam room that cleanses your senses, a shockingly delightful snow shower, vitality waters, cold plunges and sensorial showers.
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I was then brought back to the treatment room to receive a wonderful 60-minute relaxation massage ($235) followed by the Soothing by La Mer facial ($275). I got to pick from a selection of scents to enhance my massage experience, and my slippers were placed in a warmer, which was a pleasant and much-welcomed surprise.
For those inclined toward a more active form of relaxation, the state-of-the-art fitness center is outfitted with cutting-edge Technogym equipment, catering to all levels of fitness enthusiasts.
Swim with marine life in the private saltwater lagoon
One of the most unique experiences the St. Regis Longboat Key offers is its 350,000-gallon saltwater lagoon, home to almost 50 stingrays and more than 40 species of 2,800 tropical fish.
If you truly want to immerse yourself in the Florida wildlife, I highly recommend the Under the Water lagoon experience, where you can snorkel with tropical fish and feed the smaller stingrays (don’t worry — the stingrays’ barbs are removed).
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We had two expert guides for our hourlong lagoon experience. After signing a waiver and a brief orientation, they gave us wet vests and socks to protect our feet from the rocky bottom. We started with feeding and gently petting the small cownose stingrays. While I was a little nervous at first to do so, our guides made me feel much more comfortable.
Next, we put on our snorkeling gear and swam through the lagoon on the water’s surface. Our guides pointed out different fish and told us interesting facts along the way. Once we reached the other side, we could sit down in shallow water and gently pet the larger southern stingray species.
The lagoon experience costs $125 per person and is ideal for swimmers of all skill levels. However, you must be 8 and older to participate in the full snorkel experience: 8- to 13-year-olds must be with a guardian and 14- and 15-year-olds must have a guardian’s signature. Children under 8 cannot swim in the lagoon but can participate in the stingray portion of the snorkel experience.
Accessibility
Since this is a new build, I had high expectations for accessibility features. The resort only has valet parking, but there is plenty of room for transfers, and the entrance is completely accessible.
Public areas feature wide spaces, allowing unobstructed navigation and spacious elevators for easy entry and exit. The restaurants, spa and fitness center also all have accessible entrances that are either located directly on the first floor or easily accessible by ramp or elevator.
Since the pools are a central focus of the resort, I was pleased to see that each pool and the winding river are equipped with a pool lift transfer system.
Wheelchair-accessible guest rooms ensure plenty of space, with doorways wide enough to accommodate standard-size wheelchairs and furniture thoughtfully arranged to prevent unnecessary obstructions. These rooms feature roll-in showers with grab bars, adjustable showerheads and lowered fixtures and amenities like sinks and closet rods.
Checking out
Based on my experience, I felt like the St. Regis Longboat Key provided everything one could want from a Florida vacation, offering a balanced blend of entertainment and relaxation. The resort’s tailored amenities, like the world-class spa and adults-only serenity pool, offer privacy and tranquility, while the array of pools, the winding river and the saltwater lagoon ensure that guests of all ages find enjoyment and adventure. This splashy new property easily adds to the many reasons why Florida’s Gulf Coast barrier islands should be on your travel list.
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A father was dragged off a Jet2 flight at Manchester Airport after launching into a drunken tirade, shouting “f*** off you little rats” at police officers who removed him from the aircraft.
Lewis Howarth became aggressive when police attempted to escort him from the Turkey-bound plane, which had to return to Terminal 1 during taxiing.
As officers removed him, hundreds of passengers clapped and cheered while filming on their mobile phones.
When told he wouldn’t be going on holiday, Howarth responded with a stream of expletives, calling officers “f******d***heads” and “rat b******s.”
Lewis Howarth of Bolton became aggressive
PA/Facebook
The incident, which occurred yesterday, led to Howarth’s arrest and subsequent court appearance at Manchester Crown Court.
Howarth had been abusive to cabin crew throughout the safety briefing, repeatedly standing up when instructed to remain seated. When asked to fasten his seatbelt, he called a stewardess a “d***head,” the court heard.
Prosecutor Saul Brody told Manchester Crown Court that the cabin crew described Howarth as “highly intoxicated” and reported him swearing at other passengers.
Initially appearing compliant when police boarded, his behaviour quickly deteriorated as they approached the exit.
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Manchester Crown CourtPA“He started to resist and tried to fight or assault those escorting him,” said Brody. “He was taken to the floor and handcuffed, and was described as thrashing his head towards the passengers and officers.”
When being escorted from the aircraft, Howarth attempted to bite one officer and kicked out at another as staff brought a wheelchair to remove him.
Upon arrest, he admitted to drinking half a bottle of whisky before boarding the flight. When an officer confronted him about his behaviour, saying “there were so many kids on there,” Howarth replied: “My kids are there… you are f*****g wrong.”
The court heard that Howarth had previous convictions for being drunk and disorderly, affray, racially aggravated harassment, assaulting a police officer and failing to comply with court orders. The incident was captured on police bodycam footage, which was later shown to Howarth.
His defence lawyer, William Staunton, told the court Howarth had been “peer pressured” into drinking by a friend due to nervousness about flying. Staunton said his client was “profoundly ashamed and deeply remorseful,” noting that Howarth part-owned a building company and had appeared on TV for DIY emergencies.
However, Recorder Geoffrey Wells dismissed the peer pressure defence as “nonsense” during sentencing.
“This behaviour was shocking. There is no excuse for being drunk when you go on an airplane. Your children saw you behaving like that. What kind of example is that? Wholly disgraceful,” the judge said.
Howarth, of Mobberley Road, Bolton, was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison, of which he will serve half before release on licence.
Drivers are being warned of long traffic delays across major motorways around the UK as the country is battered by Storm Eowyn.
The Met Office has issued several yellow, amber and rare red warnings as Storm Eowyn brings winds of more than 100mph and torrential rain.
At present, the M25 in Kent is closed anti-clockwise between J3 (M20 J1/Swanley) and J2 (Dartford) following a collision.
While lane one remains open, lanes two, three and four remain closed, with National Highways: South-East calling on drivers to allow extra time for their journey.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers are being urged to consider whether they need to travel during the dangerous conditions
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
It follows an accident on the clockwise section of the M25 on Thursday, which claimed the life of a 53-year-old man in a single-vehicle crash.
Thames Valley Police reported that a blue Ford Kuga crashed between Junction 15 for the M4, near Slough, and Junction 16 for the M40, near Denham, Buckinghamshire.
The driver died at the scene and no other passengers or vehicles were impacted by the accidents. TVP said it was supporting the man’s next of kin.
Storm Eowyn has prompted the closure of the Severn Bridge for several hours, with National Highways: South-West monitoring wind speeds at the Severn Crossing with the M48.
The Met Office has issued several red weather warnings
PA
Drivers along the M1 northbound are waiting in hour-long delays as traffic officers continue to work on emergency carriageway repairs.
The lane closure between J28 and J29 near Mansfield has been in place since late last night, with three of four lanes closed at present.
Lane one of the section remains closed for the ongoing long-term roadworks, with lane four open to traffic. Drivers are again being asked to allow extra time for their journeys.
The M62 Ouse Bridge (between J36 and J37) is closed to high-sided and vulnerable vehicles due to strong winds.
National Highways has provided guidance for motorists who may be impacted by strong winds
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
National Highways have called on drivers to make themselves aware of the vehicles that are vulnerable during strong winds, including motorhomes, vans, motorcycles and double-decker buses.
Speaking yesterday, Alice Simpson, spokesperson for RAC Breakdown, called on drivers to “avoid the roads” unless it is absolutely necessary.
This followed the Met Office issuing multiple red weather warnings, with Simpson saying they were the “strongest possible signal” that motorists should take care.
She added: “With the worst conditions expected in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, we strongly urge motorists in these areas to stay safe by parking away from trees that could be uprooted by 100mph winds.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Storm Eowyn has been described as ‘the worst storm in a century’
WX charts
“Those in northern England and northwest Wales, where amber warnings apply, should also take great care if setting out.
“It’s best to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, avoid coastal routes where the strength of the wind will be most severe and watch out for debris.”
Tanzania has implemented new health measures following an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the Kagera region, where nine suspected cases have been reported, including eight deaths.
The Government issued a travel advisory on 21 January requiring mandatory temperature checks at all entry points into the country, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warned.
The outbreak has prompted heightened surveillance measures as health officials work to contain the spread of the virus, which belongs to the same family as Ebola.
Under the new travel advisory, all travellers entering Tanzania must undergo temperature checks at all points of entry.
Measures have been introduced to control the spread of the virus
GETTY
Those leaving the Kagera region face additional requirements, including mandatory exit screening and completion of an online form.
The measures are part of Tanzania’s efforts to monitor and control the spread of the virus across its borders.
Visitors to Tanzania should also be prepared to present their return or onward tickets at border control points as part of the enhanced screening process.
The suspected cases were identified across two districts in the Kagera region – Biharamulo and Muleba – as of January 11, 2025.
Health officials officially reported the outbreak on January 13, 2025, with laboratory results still pending confirmation.
The cluster of cases has raised significant concern among health authorities, with eight of the nine suspected cases resulting in fatalities.
The rapid progression of the outbreak has led to the implementation of strict monitoring protocols across the affected districts.
Marburg virus disease poses a severe health risk, with historical fatality rates ranging from 25 per cent to 88 per cent.
As of January 11, eight deaths were reported in connection to the Marburg virus disease outbreak
GETTY
The virus belongs to the same family as Ebola and can cause severe haemorrhagic fever in infected individuals.
Health officials are particularly concerned about the high mortality rate observed in the current outbreak, with eight deaths among nine suspected cases.
The severity of the disease has prompted Tanzanian authorities to implement comprehensive screening measures whilst awaiting laboratory confirmation of the suspected cases.
As regular readers know, I’m a big fan of cabins with balconies. As I explained in a recent story, there’s nothing quite like being able to step onto a balcony on a ship to breathe in the fresh ocean air.
But that doesn’t mean I’m opposed to the idea of staying in a cabin without a balcony. In fact, at times, I’ll even book a cabin that doesn’t have a window — or, as they’re known in the cruise world, an “inside” cabin.
If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you might not even know there’s such a thing as a cabin without a window. But there is, and they’re actually quite common. Many ships operated by major lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line have hundreds of windowless cabins.
That may seem almost unthinkable to people who are used to staying at hotels on land. After all, there aren’t a lot of hotels that have hundreds of rooms without windows. If there were, we’re guessing they wouldn’t be huge sellers.
But it’s fair to say that accommodations on cruise ships have their own set of quirks.
The upside of an inside
The lack of a window isn’t the only reason to pooh-pooh the idea of staying in an inside cabin.
In addition to offering nary a peek at the world, inside cabins — named because they’re generally located toward the middle of ships, away from exterior walls — also often are the smallest cabins on any cruise ship. Many are downright tiny. That latter point can be a big turnoff for some cruisers.
But there are advantages to inside cabins, too. For starters, inside cabins often are significantly less expensive than ocean-view cabins. They also offer a sort of “less is more” minimalism that can appeal to a keep-it-simple crowd.
Related: 5 reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade
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For me, at least, there are times when a cabin that’s inexpensive and modest in size is just fine, even if it doesn’t have anything in the way of a view.
After all, for the most part, I’m not taking cruises to spend a lot of time in a cabin. Like most cruisers, I get on ships to enjoy all they have to offer in their public spaces and to explore all the wonderful places to which they sail.
In that context, does it really matter if the room where I’ll sleep each night is big and fancy?
Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
To steal a line from Arthur Frommer, the legendary guidebook author and guidebook company founder, “Most of the time you’re in your room on vacation, your eyes are closed.”
Frommer said that to me years ago during an interview about his favorite hotel rooms. He thought spending huge sums on fancy digs was a waste. His words stuck with me over the years, and now I see their wisdom.
Here are six reasons you might want to seriously consider the least expensive inside cabins on any cruise ship.
You’ll save money
This is, for sure, the big allure of inside cabins. They can be an incredible deal.
At the time of this story’s publishing, fares for inside cabins on six-day Royal Caribbean cruises out of Fort Lauderdale in January 2026, for instance, were available for about 20% less than fares for balcony cabins. The fares for inside cabins were less than half the cost of the least expensive suite.
Specifically, you could get on the line’s amenity-packed Allure of the Seas out of Fort Lauderdale on a Jan. 11, 2026, departure for $760 per person, if you were willing to stay in an inside cabin. That works out to just $109 a day.
Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know
The thing to remember here is that all of Allure of the Seas’ major attractions, from deck-top pools and surfing simulators to an indoor ice skating rink and a giant theater with Broadway-style shows, are open to everyone on board, whether they’re staying in the smallest or biggest cabin. So are nearly all the ship’s onboard restaurants, bars and lounges.
Other than having to sleep in a smaller, windowless room, you’ll be getting much of the same onboard experience as someone who pays far more for a snazzy cabin but at a fraction of the price.
You’ll sleep like a baby
There is no dark in the world like the dark of an inside cabin. Once you turn off the lights, it will be pitch black — the kind of darkness that’s almost scary to contemplate.
This can be a bit disorienting for someone who’s used to at least a little moonlight getting into the bedroom at home. But if you’re the kind of person who has trouble sleeping with any kind of light disruption, an inside cabin can be pure bliss. You’ll go to bed without any worry about the morning sun sneaking through your curtains to wake you prematurely. And moonlight is definitely not a problem.
Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
Inside cabins can be particularly appealing if you’re sailing far north around the summer solstice when the sun stays up for much (or all) of the day. We’re talking about places like Alaska, the Norwegian coast and around Iceland and Greenland. Ditto if you’re sailing far south during the winter to places such as Antarctica or the more southerly parts of South America.
You’ll spend more time enjoying the ship
The trick to having a blast on a cruise ship is to dive right into anything and everything it has to offer. If it has a rock wall, you need to climb it. Karaoke? Get ready to sing. Leave no waterslide or late-night comedy show unexperienced. To do this, of course, you need to get out of your room, and there’s no better motivation to venture out of your room than to have one that lacks much space or even a window.
When I book inside cabins, I find that I get up and out early. Instead of ordering room service for breakfast, I’ll head to a restaurant with a view and then explore the ship more than usual in the morning. I’ll spend daytime hours playing on the ship’s top decks and evening hours out late at the bars, lounges and showrooms.
Related: 7 reasons you should splurge for a suite on your next cruise
By offering you little more than a small, dark place to rest your head at night, inside cabins can be just the impetus you need to make the most of your cruise vacation.
You might get less seasick
Worried about getting seasick on your next cruise?
The most stable place to be on any cruise ship is low down on the vessel near its equilibrium point, which is generally near its center. Since inside cabins are closer to the center of a ship than “outside” ocean-view and balcony cabins, they can be more stable in rough seas. The trick is to find an inside cabin toward the center of the ship in both directions — lengthwise and widthwise.
The counterargument to this, for the record, is that you can’t look at the horizon when you’re in an inside cabin — a common tip for people experiencing seasickness. And you won’t have access to fresh air as you would in a balcony cabin.
If you’re solo, you might avoid extra fees
Nearly all cruise ship cabins are designed for two travelers, each paying their own fare, and solo travelers generally have to pay an extra fee to stay in one alone. But some ships have special inside cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. If you’re traveling alone and stay in one of these special cabins, you can avoid the extra solo traveler fee, known in the industry as the “single supplement.”
Norwegian, which has been at the forefront of the solo cabin trend, now has hundreds of inside cabins for solo travelers spread across more than half a dozen vessels.
Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
While Norwegian’s solo cabins do have windows, they open up onto hallways, not the outside of the ship. They’re also unusually small, at around 100 square feet, but they’re superbly designed to maximize storage space, too. Additionally, they’re clustered around exclusive lounges where solos can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.
Royal Caribbean, Cunard and Holland America are among other lines that have been adding solo cabins to some ships — many of them inside cabins.
There are a few ocean-view cabins designed for solo travelers in the industry, but they are very rare.
You might still get an ocean view (with a twist)
On a few innovative cruise ships, there are windowless inside cabins that offer a view of the outside world, thanks to the magic of technology.
On some Disney Cruise Line ships, some inside cabins come with “magical portholes” that show real-time views of the outside. They’re actually screens built into the walls of the cabin to give the illusion of a porthole view.
Royal Caribbean has gone a step further, adding large “virtual balconies” to inside cabins on some ships. These are floor-to-ceiling LED screens that show real-time views of the outside, built into the walls of the cabins in such a way that they offer the illusion of a balcony.
If this idea sounds a little hokey, it is. But I’ve stayed in these cabins, and the illusion is surprisingly real. The addition of the screens really changes the feel of the rooms. The Disney cabins are particularly fun, as Disney characters sometimes make cameo appearances in the magical portholes. If you have young kids with you, they’re going to love it.
Bottom line
Booking a room without a window on a cruise ship might seem like an odd choice. But there are good reasons to consider one, not the least of which is that rooms without windows on cruise ships — known as “inside” cabins — can be an incredible value.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
Travel
Qantas Frequent Flyer announces sweeping changes to loyalty program — here’s what to book now and what to book later
Australian airline Qantas has announced a mixed bag of changes to its loyalty program. Some award rates and carrier-imposed surcharges will increase later this year, but the airline will also add additional award availability and new partner award tickets. Thankfully, these Qantas Frequent Flyer changes won’t take effect until Aug. 5.
Given the news, there are some redemptions you should book now and others that you should wait to book until later this year. Here’s what you need to know about the changes so you can plan accordingly.
Higher prices and surcharges for Classic Flight Rewards
For bookings made from Aug. 5 on, Qantas will increase the cost of its cheapest saver-level redemptions (called Classic Flight Rewards) and saver-level upgrades for Qantas-operated flights by 5% to 20%, depending on the route.
On the shortest domestic routes like Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Sydney Airport (SYD), rates for Classic Flight Rewards will increase from 8,000 points each way to 9,200 points, with the fees, taxes and surcharges of 55 Australian dollars (about $34.50) remaining the same.
The price increase will be more substantial on long-haul services, such as Qantas flights from Sydney to Europe. Bookings made from Aug. 5 on will rise from 144,600 to 166,300 Qantas points each way, and fees, taxes and surcharges will increase from AU$473 to AU$648 (about $297 to $406).
Classic Flight Rewards are often hard to find, especially on long-haul routes in premium cabins. This has been especially apparent since the airline launched dynamically priced Classic Plus Flight Rewards in 2024. These award tickets are tied to the cash price of a flight and are much more expensive.
Verdict: Book now.
Higher redemption rates for partner airlines
Qantas is a member of the Oneworld alliance, meaning you can redeem Qantas points on partner airlines like American Airlines, British Airways and Alaska Airlines. The airline also partners with carriers outside the Oneworld alliance, such as Air France, KLM and Emirates.
For bookings made from Aug. 5 on, Emirates flights will be priced according to the Qantas award chart (rather than the partner award chart). Because of this, award rates and surcharges will increase for Emirates-operated flights, as with Qantas-operated flights.
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Qantas has not yet revealed the price increases of other partner airlines, though it says it will do so in May (for bookings made from Aug. 5 on). Currently, you can book domestic flights within the U.S. on routes like New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) from just 8,000 Qantas points, a great deal given that other Oneworld carriers have devalued short-haul domestic flights.
If you want to redeem Qantas points on partner airlines, you should do so before the prices rise in August.
Verdict: Book now.
Related: A step up from your average economy: Flying Emirates’ A380 from Dubai to Johannesburg
New premium economy award options
For the first time, starting in October, you can redeem Qantas points for premium economy seats on flights operated by Finnair, Air France, KLM and Iberia. Due to this change, the program promises that 200,000 new premium economy award seats will be added.
If you don’t have enough Qantas points to book business-class award seats on these airlines, you may wish to wait until August to book premium economy seats.
Verdict: Book later.
Related: Is Iberia premium economy worth it on the Airbus A330 from Madrid to Dallas?
New Classic Flight Rewards seats on Hawaiian Airlines
In advance of Hawaiian Airlines’ entry into the Oneworld alliance, you will be able to redeem Qantas points for flights on the airline starting in October.
Qantas promises 800,000 Hawaiian Airlines award seats will be available to Qantas Frequent Flyer members.
Verdict: Book later.
Related: A new era for Hawaiian Airlines as it launches Dreamliner service: TPG was on the inaugural
Lower award prices for Jetstar flights
Jetstar is Qantas’ wholly owned low-cost subsidiary, comparable to Europe’s EasyJet in terms of passenger experience, pricing, rules and restrictions. Jetstar is not a Oneworld alliance member, so partner points or miles cannot be used to book Jetstar flights (nor can you use non-Qantas Oneworld status).
You can already redeem Qantas points for Jetstar flights. However, from Aug. 1 on, the cost of Classic Flight Rewards seats on Jetstar for popular Australian routes like Melbourne Airport (MEL) to SYD will drop to just 5,700 Qantas points.
If you want to get from point A to point B and aren’t fussed about traveling on a full-service airline or using your Oneworld status benefits, this will be an inexpensive way to fly domestically within Australia.
Verdict: Book later.
Changes to earning points
In addition to the above pricing changes, Qantas will increase the number of points members earn on domestic cash tickets by up to 25%. The airline will also award additional points on select international tickets.
Earning Qantas points via credit cards
While there are no Qantas-branded credit cards available in the U.S., you can transfer rewards from three programs with transferable currencies directly to Qantas Frequent Flyer:
Each has a transfer ratio of 1:1, so 10,000 credit card points equal 10,000 Qantas points.
Additionally, you can transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Qantas Frequent Flyer at a 3:1 ratio, meaning 3 Marriott Bonvoy points become 1 Qantas point. Marriott will also add 5,000 bonus points when you transfer 60,000 Bonvoy points to an airline.
Bottom line
Devaluations are an unfortunate reality of collecting points and miles. We recommend earning transferable points for precisely this reason; if one transfer partner devalues, you can always book with another.
These changes announced by Qantas represent higher prices and surcharges for both flights operated by Qantas and its partner airlines within and outside the Oneworld alliance.
However, there are some upsides. Qantas is giving members six months’ notice before any price increases. And, for the first time, members will be able to book Hawaiian Airlines and premium economy award tickets on several partner airlines.
For flights that will increase in price, you should consider booking as soon as possible.
If you’ve been excited about the possibility of flying a United Airlines Boeing 737 to Mongolia, you’re in luck. The airline has just officially started selling flights to Ulaanbaatar.
The Chicago-based carrier just filed the details of this creative new route, as first seen in Cirium schedules.
CIRIUM
United’s new 1,900-mile route from Narita International Airport (NRT) to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) will commence on May 1 with three times weekly service in each direction. (The westbound service will operate on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, while the eastbound flight will operate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.)
Pro tips: The biggest mistakes people make with travel rewards credit cards
Flights from Tokyo will depart at 4:30 p.m. and land in Ulaanbaatar at 8:55 p.m. The return service will leave at 9:55 a.m. and land in Toyko at 3:45 p.m.
United plans seasonal service in this new market with flights scheduled to end on Oct. 12, 2025.
These flights are timed to connect with United’s primary transpacific departure and arrival banks from Narita. United operates long-haul flights from Narita to Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark and San Francisco.
United will deploy a Guam-based Boeing 737-800 on this route, featuring 16 business-class recliners, 48 Economy Plus extra-legroom seats and 102 standard economy seats.
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Seeing a United Boeing 737 in Mongolia might be puzzling for some, but it’s being operated as part of historical fifth-freedom rights that United has in Tokyo for flights that originate in the U.S. and continue onwards to other countries.
In recent years, United hasn’t really taken advantage of these rights, instead focusing on boosting its hub in Guam. That said, Guam hasn’t been as busy or lucrative as it has in the past, so United seems to be experimenting with new uses for the jets it stations in Micronesia.
Flight review: Is United Airlines premium economy worth it to Europe?
In fact, United has been busy in recent months turning its presence at NRT into a de facto gateway hub within the larger region. The airline recently commenced new flights from Tokyo to Cebu in the Philippines, and now it’s adding three more short-haul regional routes from the airport (Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Koror, Palau; and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia).
United says that its joint venture partnership with Japanese airline All Nippon Airways will help these routes take off. (For instance, ANA doesn’t currently fly from Narita to Ulaanbaatar.) The new flights will also be supported by travelers looking for one-stop connections from the U.S.
“We are thinking about Tokyo differently than how it’s been thought of in the past. I think Tokyo is a real asset to us. … And when we went through the data, a lot of this traffic was connecting over Beijing, but is not doing so anymore. And so this is a way to connect it over Tokyo,” United’s network chief Patrick Quayle told TPG back when the routes were announced in October.
If you’re looking to book the new route, one-way fares start at $326 in economy and $753 in business class. Introductory mileage rates are quite steep, with one-way economy flights starting at 30,000 miles and business-class flights starting at a whopping 75,000 miles.
There was no saver award availability on the new routes as of time of publication.
Related reading:
Having elite status with an airline you frequent — such as JetBlue — can make your travels more comfortable, efficient and seamless.
However, since earning elite status often requires a significant commitment of travel time and money, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a frequent flyer program before funneling your business to that airline. For some individuals who are airline free agents, it may not make sense to pursue elite status at all.
This guide will evaluate JetBlue Mosaic status and explain how the status tiers work, how to earn them and whether striving for this status is worth the effort for JetBlue flyers.
Related: Complete guide to airline status matches and challenges
What is JetBlue Mosaic status?
JetBlue rewards the most frequent flyers in its TrueBlue loyalty program with Mosaic status and the TrueBlue points they earn while flying the airline.
Unlike the legacy U.S. carriers, which offer complimentary upgrades on domestic flights to their most loyal members, many of JetBlue’s aircraft are not equipped with its luxurious, well-regarded Mint business-class cabin. Instead, JetBlue elite members benefit from earning bonus points, selecting Even More Space seats and getting free checked bags, among other benefits.
Your JetBlue Mosaic status begins when you meet the criteria and is valid for the rest of that calendar year and the entirety of the following year. So, if you reach the status requirements in June 2025, you will hold the status through Dec. 31, 2026, giving you a year and a half to benefit from the perks.
Related: A business-class boost: Reviewing JetBlue’s Mint Suite
JetBlue Mosaic status tiers
TrueBlue is free to join, and all members start at the “basic” level. While the program initially offered a single status tier, this changed in 2023 when JetBlue overhauled TrueBlue and Mosaic.
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The four published tiers of JetBlue elite status are:
- Mosaic 1
- Mosaic 2
- Mosaic 3
- Mosaic 4
The differences among the tiers are based on the amount you fly and spend with JetBlue. As you fly more with JetBlue and/or utilize a cobranded credit card (among other activities), you can move up in the program.
Mosaic 1 is very similar to the former stand-alone Mosaic status. With each higher tier reached, more valuable perks become available.
How to qualify for JetBlue Mosaic status
JetBlue uses a metric known as Tiles for Mosaic status qualification purposes. Tiles can be earned in one of two ways: through qualifying spending on JetBlue flights and vacations, or with JetBlue credit cards.
You earn one Tile for every:
This means you can reach JetBlue Mosaic status entirely through credit card spending, spending with JetBlue or with some combination of the two.
Here’s what you’ll need to qualify for each Mosaic tier:
| Status tier | Tiles needed | Status earned exclusively by JetBlue travel spending |
Status earned exclusively by JetBlue credit card spending |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mosaic 1 | 50 | $5,000 | $50,000 |
| Mosaic 2 | 100 | $10,000 | $100,000 |
| Mosaic 3 | 150 | $15,000 | $150,000 |
| Mosaic 4 | 250 | $25,000 | $250,000 |
As you can see, earning status solely through credit card spending isn’t feasible for most travelers. It’s often easiest to use a combination of the two methods — for example:
- $3,000 in JetBlue flights (30 Tiles) plus $20,000 in card spending (20 tiles) gets you Mosaic 1 status.
- $5,000 in JetBlue flights (50 Tiles), $3,000 in Paisly purchases (30 Tiles) and $20,000 in card spending (20 Tiles) gets you Mosaic 2 status.
JetBlue Mosaic status benefits
Basic members earn 3 TrueBlue points per dollar spent on JetBlue flights (except Blue Basic fares, which earn 1 point per dollar), plus an additional 3 points per dollar when they book on JetBlue’s website (1 point per dollar for Blue Basic).
While working their way to Mosaic 1, basic members enjoy “Perks You Pick” — a selection of benefits you can choose from when you earn 10, 20, 30 and then 40 Tiles. These options include:
- Early boarding with Group B (except on Blue Basic fares)
- Priority security (where available)
- Free inflight alcoholic drink (one drink per flight)
- Double bonus points on a JetBlue Vacations package (one-time use only)
- 5,000 TrueBlue bonus points
Note that these are one-time selections, so you can’t (for example) pick 5,000 points at all four thresholds.
Then, once you hit 50 Tiles, you’ve officially earned JetBlue Mosaic status.
Mosaic 1 status
This is the lowest elite tier in JetBlue’s program, where you will receive:
- 3 bonus points per dollar spent on JetBlue flights
- Priority security and boarding
- First two checked bags free
- Complimentary beer, wine, and liquor (up to three drinks per Mosaic member per flight)
- Even More Space seats at check-in at no extra cost
- Same-day switches with no fee or fare difference
- Preferred core seating (excludes Blue Basic starting March 1)
- Dedicated check-in lines and phone support
- Heathrow Express upgrades (pending availability)
- Avis Preferred Plus status match
Mosaic 2 status
You’ll receive all of the same perks as Mosaic 1, as well as:
- Select Even More Space seats at booking at no extra cost
- Status match to Avis President’s Club
Mosaic 3 status
When you elevate your JetBlue elite status further, you unlock these benefits:
Mosaic 4 status
At TrueBlue’s top tier, you will receive everything mentioned above, as well as:
- Two additional Move to Mint certificates (pending availability), plus two more certificates for every additional 100 Tiles earned after reaching Mosaic 4 (starting in January)
- Gift Mosaic 1 status to a TrueBlue member of your choice (these members don’t receive a Perks You Pick selection)
- Dedicated Mosaic 4 phone support
However, the benefits continue beyond there. Once you reach Mosaic 1, and each time you level up through JetBlue elite status, you can choose an additional perk from the Perks You Pick menu, which includes:
- Complimentary FoundersCard Blue membership
- Pet-fee waiver
- $99 one-time statement credit for JetBlue Plus or Business cards
- 20-Tile bonus for yourself or a giftee
- 15,000 TrueBlue bonus points
- Mint Suite priority access to select the best seats (pending availability)
- IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status
Can a credit card help earn JetBlue status?
JetBlue has three credit cards, all issued by Barclays:
| Card | Best for | Sign-up bonus | Earning rate | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JetBlue Plus Card | Frequent JetBlue flyers | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days |
|
$99 |
| JetBlue Card | Casual JetBlue flyers | Earn 10,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on qualifying purchases within the first 90 days |
|
$0 |
| JetBlue Business Card | Small-business owners | Earn up to 60,000 bonus points: 50,000 points after spending $4,000 on qualifying purchases in the first 90 days and 10,000 points when a purchase is made on an employee card in the first 90 days |
|
$99 |
The information for the JetBlue Plus Card, JetBlue Card and JetBlue Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
You’ll earn 1 Tile toward Mosaic status with every $1,000 spent on any JetBlue credit card, with no limit. This means you can, in theory, earn JetBlue elite status without ever stepping on a plane.
But this would require a lot of spending, and don’t forget the opportunity cost. You may get more value by putting your expenses on a card that earns transferable points on dining, travel or other popular categories. Due to their expansive lists of transfer partners, these transferable currencies are generally more valuable than JetBlue points. Plus, you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points and Citi ThankYou Rewards points to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio. American Express Membership Rewards points transfer to JetBlue at a 1:0.8 ratio.
Is JetBlue Mosaic status worth it?
If you earn Mosaic status anytime in 2025, your status lasts until Dec. 31, 2026. The earlier you achieve status, the longer you can enjoy it.
However, the Mosaic perks outlined above will only be helpful if you fly JetBlue regularly while your status is valid. There’s little benefit in focusing time and money on earning Mosaic elite status if you can’t enjoy the benefits.
If you value time-saving perks like priority boarding and security plus the money-saving benefits of free seat selection, checked bags and upgrade certificates, Mosaic elite status could be very valuable. However, the top perks require a lot of spending to earn, so be sure it’s worth that investment.
Another thing to consider is whether or not JetBlue’s route network matches your flying preferences. Mosaic elite status could be beneficial if your home airport is a JetBlue hub, such as Fort Lauderdale, Boston or New York. It may be less beneficial if your plans involve mostly international travel, since JetBlue has a limited international network (primarily in the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe).
A third factor determining if JetBlue Mosaic’s status is worth it is how much you value TrueBlue points. JetBlue prices award tickets based on the cost of a paid ticket, and TPG’s January 2025 valuations peg TrueBlue points at 1.3 cents apiece. However, this redemption value is generally lower when you redeem points for JetBlue Mint tickets. Since you’ll be collecting TrueBlue points on your pathway to earning status, ensure they unlock the rewards you want.
Finally, consider the perks that are important to you. You may be able to get these by simply adding a JetBlue credit card to your wallet, rather than going out of your way to earn Mosaic status. For example, the JetBlue Plus Card includes a free checked bag for you and three companions, 5,000 points on your cardmember anniversary, 50% off eligible inflight purchases, and 10% of your TrueBlue points back as a rebate when you book JetBlue-operated award flights. This may be plenty for a casual JetBlue flyer.
Bottom line
Earning elite status on any airline is a marathon, not a sprint, requiring loyalty throughout the year. However, JetBlue provides some flexibility in that you can reach Mosaic status through a combination of flying and credit card spending.
With perks such as complimentary Even More Space seat selection, Mint upgrades and priority service, the rewards for your loyalty to JetBlue can be very worthwhile. This is especially true for those who live in cities with a significant JetBlue presence, especially with Mint service (JetBlue’s award-winning business class).
The first thing that struck us as we disembarked our flight at Innsbruck Airport — other than the fresh, bracing air—was the breathtaking mountain scenery encircling us. Towering, snow-dusted peaks are all around, glowing in the morning sunlight – a natural amphitheatre promising several days of history, fun and adventure.
The second thing that stood out was the remarkable ease of travelling from the airport to the heart of Innsbruck. Few international airports in Europe allow you to be dining in a restaurant in the city centre within an hour of landing, but in Innsbruck it’s possible to achieve this effortlessly. Once through passport control and the baggage claim area, the F bus immediately outside the airport doors swiftly connects you to Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (the main train station from which you can easily explore the Old Town on foot) in just 15–20 minutes.
And so, we did just that, stopping at Weisses Rössl for a wonderful Tyrolean lunch. But for first-time visitors to the city, I’d strongly recommend taking a private guided tour. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Innsbruck’s rich history, culture and hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. Our certified Austria guide, Monika, greeted us with a warm smile and the promise of unique insights — stories and details that only someone with centuries of family roots in the city could share.
We set off to explore the city’s layers of history, noting that the streets are dotted with intricately wrought-iron signs. These ornate markers, each a miniature work of art, once served as advertisements for the city’s merchants. From gilded boots to gleaming scales, these signs were not merely decorative but also practical, helping visitors and locals to navigate Innsbruck’s winding streets before literacy was widespread.
We are led to the nearest bridge where we pause to take in a view that perfectly encapsulates Innsbruck: the River Inn, flanked by the pastel façades of Mariahilfstrasse. Each building was painted a different colour—a tradition that began as a way to identify homes and shops but has also become a symbol of the city’s vibrant personality.
Here, Monika drew our attention to the river’s formidable presence. In Spring, the snowmelt floods its banks, often threatening to breach the bridges that connect the city. It’s a reminder of how closely life here is intertwined with nature and the surrounding landscape.
The marketplace near the bridge is alive with energy each morning – it’s a thriving hub of farmers and vendors selling everything from ripe produce to Alpine cheeses, something which the locals take an immense pride in.
Innsbruck’s history unfolded as we entered the Old Town. Monika led us to the Golden Roof, the world-famous symbol of the city with its 2,657 fire-gilded tiles. Built by Emperor Maximilian I, the roof was a symbol of his power and influence when Innsbruck was the capital of Europe.
Maximilian’s legacy looms large here and there’s a plaque that lists notable visitors to the city, including the likes of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Maria Theresa,he mother of Marie Antoinette.
Through strategic marriages, Maximilian expanded his empire across the continent, earning the title of Europe’s last knight. But even an emperor’s resources are finite. When his ambitious projects drained his treasury, he left Innsbruck for Vienna, where he died. He’s not buried in the city he so adored, but statues of significant historical figures, particularly from the Habsburg dynasty – which had been built to surround the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I – remain in the Hofkirche.
These statues are a marvel of Renaissance craftsmanship, each figure etched with exquisite detail. Monika pointed out one particularly fascinating statue, which cleverly depicts the artist’s self-portrait in the elbow. Preserved in Innsbruck, these statues survived the bombing of Vienna during World War II, and a poignant reminder of the city’s role as a guardian of history.
Nearby, Dom St. Jakob’s painted ceiling is an exquisite work of art. What appears to be a grand dome is, in fact, a flat ceiling – a masterpiece of illusion, painted to create depth where none exists.
Innsbruck’s spirit of resilience came alive again as Monika recounted the fire that once ravaged the city. From its ashes rose the domed walkways that now characterise the Old Town, offering shelter from weather and a demonstration of the city’s ability to adapt and endure. This theme of survival is mirrored in its people – as Monika noted, those born in Innsbruck often stay or, if they leave, feel an irresistible pull to return. There’s something magnetic about life here, a harmony that blends tradition with progress.
That progress is evident in the youthful energy coursing through the city, thanks to its thriving university, whilst Innsbruck’s proximity to Italy and Germany adds to its vibrancy; introducing new cultures and cuisines. Yet Innsbruck itself feels complete, its charm rooted in its people and its connection to the land.
Our tour ends at Adlers Hotel, a modern counterpoint to the city’s historic heart. It has been a fascinating insight into Innsbruck and a wonderful way to begin our trip. As we say farewell, we now understand what Monika means about the pull of the place. – we’ve only been there a few hours but are already longing for more.
Disclosure: Our trip was sponsored by Innsbruck Tourism.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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