The Vigipirate is a three-tier safety system created in France in 1978. It consists of: “vigilance,” “heightened security/risk of attack,” and “attack emergency” levels.

The country decided to increase its security alert to the highest level possible in order to be able to mobilize monetary sources and quickly diffuse information to protect citizens if a crisis breaks out.

With this alert, France is allowed to display armed troops to patrol public places such as airports, public transport, shopping facilities, educational institutions, and sports, tourist and religious venues.

One of the reasons that triggered the government to raise its security alert is related to safety concerns regarding the Olympic and Paralympic Games that will take place in Paris and other cities this summer. 

Everything suggests that the threat is real – According to the national news channel France 24, high school students from more than 30 institutions received threatening emails through the Pronote software used by the Ministry of Education.

These emails state that schools in the country’s north will be soon attacked. They also contained “shocking” videos of beheadings, confirmed the minister Thursday.

The “Islamic State in Khorasan,” which is believed to be responsible for the terrorist attack in Russia, has perpetrated other attacks in Germany and France in recent times and is currently threatening France, Prime Minister Attal has stated, according to Reuters.

US Embassy and Consulates in France Recommendations 

Concerned about the safety of its nations, the US Embassy has issued a series of recommendations for Americans to be safe in case of emergency when visiting France.

Americans are encouraged to:

• Register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive last-minute information about the situation in France and make it easy to locate you in case of need.
• Refrain from taking part in demonstrations and leave zones with an increased police presence at once.
• Keep yourself informed about recent news and social media activity.
• Avoid drawing too much attention to yourself.
• Keep your family members and friends posted about your whereabouts.
• In case you notice something suspicious, please contact local authorities at 17 or 112.

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Whether you want to go out and engage in seasonal activities or cozy up indoors, there is something for everyone on this list. Read on to learn more about what to do in New Jersey in the winter of 2023-2024.

Get in the mood at Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market

There would be no winter without a proper Christmas market. And which country boasts the best Christmas markets? That’s right, Germany. However, you don’t have to travel far to experience an authentic Weihnachtsmärkt. There is one in Augusta. You can get last-minute gifts there or just breathe in the festive atmosphere. Careful, though, as you might forget that you’re in the U.S.

Learn how to ski at Campgaw Mountain Ski Area

Are you rather into skiing? Campgaw Mountain Ski Area is a great spot to enjoy all sorts of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snow tubing. You won’t come out short if you’re a beginner. There are plenty of easy runs to choose from. Lessons and rentals of sports equipment are available, too.

Hiking in the Watchung Reservation

It’s never too cold for hiking. And the picturesque woodlands of Watchung Reservation are the proof of it. Explore its little streams and lakes covered in snow, visit the nature center, or try horse riding. You can easily spend a day there without getting bored, so don’t forget to wear warm clothes.

Skiing and Chill in Mountain Creek

Mountain Creek is another option to experience some excellent skiing. This resort is the largest one in New Jersey and offers a plethora of winter activities, including cross-country skiing, tubing, and even fat biking. You will also come across numerous luxurious spas and fine restaurants and bars.

Watch a show at WinterFest Ice Skating Rink at Cooper River Park

This seasonal outdoor ice rink is one of the best ones in the area, and we’re not surprised. The grounds are neat, non-skaters can borrow skating aids for free, and there are bonfires at night to warm you up and create a charming atmosphere. You can also watch a figure skating show from time to time. What’s more, this rink is super affordable. Adult admission is $7.5, while kids skate for $5.5.

Take a pic with Santa at Holiday Bazaar Asbury Park and Long Branch

If you want to engage in Christmas activities with your family, this is the place to be. Apart from the traditional stalls with handcrafted goods, these holiday bazaars boast live music, kids’ workshops, and art classes. Amazing food and drinks are another reason why it’s a good idea to spend an afternoon there.

Enjoy some water activities at Big Kahuna’s Water Park

Missing summer? This water park will make you feel like you are at the beach somewhere really exotic. It boasts high-speed water slides, rafts, jacuzzis, an indoor surf simulator, and much more. There is also an arcade area and a huge playground. All that makes it the perfect choice for families with children.

Skating at Skylands Iceworld

Ice skating is one of the most popular activities in New Jersey. Also, it’s very accessible. You will find plenty of both outdoor and indoor ice rinks there. Skylands Iceworld is a classic, and it definitely shouldn’t be missed. It features two NHL-size rinks and is open every day.

The post 8 Best Places To Visit In New Jersey In Winter 2023-24 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls State Park is one of the nation’s most beloved parks. And for a good reason. It’s home to the Gooseberry River and several streams that flow into waterfalls – the park’s highlight – and then make their way to Lake Superior. There are also plenty of trails ideal for walking, cycling, and dog walking. If you’re planning to cover the whole park, we recommend you stay for at least a day because there’s a lot to explore. 

Minnehaha Falls

If you’re staying in Minneapolis and still want to leaf peep, there is an autumn wonderland right in the city center. This popular park is called Minnehaha Regional Park and is filled with trees, trails, and river overlooks. Its biggest attraction is, however, the 53-foot waterfall. You can view it from the platform above it or take the stairs to see it from below – both viewpoints are worth a photo shoot for your Instagram feed.

New Ulm

One thing New Ulm is known for is its German heritage. So if you feel like savoring a pint of good beer and a bratwurst, you’re at the right spot. The best time to visit it is around Oktoberfest, specifically during the first two weekends in October. You will see many things happening in the historic downtown, at Morgan Creek Vineyards or the iconic Schell’s Brewery. If you decide to have a beer there, make sure you also try one of their huge pretzels.

Red Wing

Those searching for an easy hike that would offer stunning views should head to Red Wing – a small town set among bluffs and the Mississippi River. You will find the 1.7-mile-long Barn Bluff Trail there – an easy climb worth a stop for a small picnic. Fancy something longer? You can also hike or bike the 20-mile Cannon Valley Trail that will take you from Cannon Falls to Red Wing. After that, you can wind down at Red Wing Brewery while wine lovers will surely enjoy Falconer Vineyards.

Stillwater

With fall comes harvesting season. And a great place to enjoy it is Stillwater. They host the legendary Harvest Festival and their program is pretty full. Take part in a chili cook-off, pumpkin drop, or giant pumpkin weight-off. There will also be a lot of kids’ activities, live music, and, of course, beer.

Superior National Forest

If you’re looking to see some vibrant colors in pristine nature, look no further. This deep, 3.9 million-acre forest in Northern Minnesota boasts an abundance of trees, lakes, streams, and plenty of wildlife. You can spot wolves, coyotes, and even bull moose there, and fishing and hunting are allowed. Pack at least an extra layer if you go to Superior National Forest. It can get pretty cold, especially in late fall.

Cuyuna

Mountain bikers, alert. In Cuyuna, you can find 70 miles of scenic trails suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to experts. There are also over 100 miles of paved trails for gravel and road cyclists. So come this fall and enjoy some world-class cycling experience surrounded by colorful foliage. 

Split Rock Lighthouse

Set only about 10 minutes of drive from Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse is another fall destination you shouldn’t miss if you’re in the Two Harbor area. You can access the lighthouse and all its historic grounds for just $12. They provide amazing views of Lake Superior and the surrounding nature, plus you can learn a bit of history about the lakeside.

The post 8 Best Places To Visit In Minnesota In Fall Season 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

TSA officials explained that the three busiest days of the holiday travel season, which runs from Nov. 18-27, are typically the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday.

The government agency anticipates screening up to 2.5 million passengers at checkpoints across the country on Wednesday, November 23, and may exceed 2.5 million passengers on Sunday, November 27.

On the Sunday following Thanksgiving in 2019, the TSA reported the highest passenger volume in its history, screening approximately 2.9 million people at checkpoints around the country.

“We expect to be busier this year than last year at this time, and probably very close to pre-pandemic levels,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said. “We are prepared to handle the projected increase in travel volumes next week.”

Security officials have issued a list of Thanksgiving items that must be carried in checked baggage rather than carry-on luggage to avoid potential congestion at security checkpoints, in addition to the expected increase in air traffic.

Food items often require additional security screening. Therefore, TSA advises placing them in an appropriate area when packing carry-on luggage. If it is a solid item, it can pass through the checkpoint, according to the government. Anything that weighs more than 3.4 ounces and can be spilled, dispersed, sprayed, pumped or poured must be packed in a checked bag.

According to TravelPulse, these are the Thanksgiving foods that can be carried through a TSA checkpoint

—Baked goods. Homemade or store-bought pies, cakes, cookies, brownies and other sweet treats.

—Meats. Turkey, chicken, ham, steak. Frozen, cooked or uncooked.

—Stuffing. Cooked, uncooked, in a box or in a bag.

—Casseroles. Traditional green beans and onion straws or something more exotic.

—Mac ‘n Cheese. Cooked in a pan or traveling with the ingredients to cook it at your destination.

—Fresh vegetables. Potatoes, yams, broccoli, green beans, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, beets, radishes, carrots, squash, greens.

—Fresh fruit. Apples, pears, pineapple, lemons, limes, cranberries, blueberries, strawberries, bananas, kiwi.

—Candy.

—Spices.

Thanksgiving foods that should be carefully packed with your checked baggage

—Cranberry sauce. Homemade or canned are spreadable, so check them.

—Gravy. Homemade or in a jar/can.

—Wine, champagne, sparking apple cider.

—Canned fruit or vegetables. It’s got liquid in the can, so check them.

—Preserves, jams and jellies. They are spreadable, so best to check them.

—Maple syrup.

The post TSA Anticipates Near Pre-Pandemic Passengers This Thanksgiving Week – Food Items Allowed appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

A representative of the mountain told reporters that it will officially open its slopes on November 5. The original plan was to welcome visitors on November 11, but a snowfall allowed the date to be moved up.

“Thanks to the hard work of the Mammoth Mountain operations team and a little extra love from Mother Nature in the form of cold temps and 8 inches of new snow, Mammoth will be opening for the season a week early, this Saturday, November 5,” Lauren Burke, a spokesperson for Mammoth Mountain, told reporters. “Snowmaking will continue around the clock as conditions allow.”

The mountain anticipates operating two to three lifts with access to two or three lines and a tiny Unbound Terrain Park on opening day. There won’t be any beginner terrain accessible at first.

Another “significant storm” is predicted for Sunday through the beginning of the following week, Burke added, and things are looking good for the following week. According to Weather.com, the region will receive 6 to 11 inches of snow on Sunday, followed by another 10 to 16 inches on Monday and 11 to 17 inches on Tuesday.

Mammoth Mountain has previously opened early. Last year, the ski area opened in October due to another load of fresh snow. Ikon Pass, which now connects more than 50 resorts, includes Mammoth Mountain.

In addition to Mammoth, other Ikon Pass ski areas, including Banff Sunshine in Canada, which opened Thursday, and Winter Park in Colorado, which opened Monday, have also opened for the current ski season.

The post TOP California Ski Resort Is Opening Early Thanks To Unexpected Snow appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The U.S. State Department has just released 16 new travel advisories. The travel advisories were posted on the State Department’s website.

In yesterday’s travel alert updates, Level 1 travel advisories were issued for an additional 7 countries, bringing the total to 81. These 7 countries and their CDC-established Covid 19 levels are:

Angola (low Covid-19 level)

Comoros (low Covid-19 level)

Dominica (unknown Covid-19 level)

Equatorial Guinea (low Covid-19 level)

Fiji (high Covid-19 level)

Poland (high Covid-19 level) and 

Togo (moderate Covid-19 level).

In addition, five destinations were included in the level 2 category, which warns tourists to be more careful. They are:

Bangladesh: due to crime, terrorism, and kidnappings, you should be especially careful there. (Low Covid-19 Level)

Bosnia & Herzegovina: Due to landmines and terrorism, you should be extra cautious there (high Covid-19 level)

India: Due to crime and terrorism, you should be especially careful there. Moderate Covid-19 level.

Laos: due to civil unrest you should proceed with caution (Covid-19 level is unknown)

Philippines: Due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnappings, you should exercise extra caution when traveling there (the Covid 19 level is moderate)

A level 3 travel warning was issued for four countries. Because of its high crime rate, El Salvador, which has a moderate level of Covid-19, was classified as Level 3. This also applies to Honduras, which has a high Covid-19 activity, according to the CDC. 

Due to armed conflict, civil unrest, communication breakdowns, crime, and the risk of terrorism and kidnapping in border areas, travelers should reconsider their plans to travel to Ethiopia (moderate Covid-19).

Due to Moldova’s proximity to the war in Ukraine, travelers with plans for the country should also reconsider (moderate covid-19). 

The post U.S. State Department Red-Flagged Another 16 Destinations appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is becoming increasingly popular, where cross-border movements are frequent. Countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have already adopted such and the UK is the latest to join the list.

Leading the country’s new border policies has been Home Secretary Priti Patel, who has enacted a series of measures to strengthen security. Ever since Brexit, the government has tightened immigration and aligned itself with more conservative British voters.

Set to be trialed in 2023 and fully implemented by 2024, ‘Permission to Travel’ will require all foreigners to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before traveling. The only ones who don’t are those on a short-term visa.

While the system is not yet operational, tourists will apply through the U.K. Government’s official website and be required to provide the below information:

• Biographic
• Biometric 
• Contact details
• Online ‘suitability question’ questionnaire to fill out

It is being reported that an ETA will cost £18, or close to $21, but unclear how long it will be valid for. This new scheme applies only to non-visa nationals, while tourists from other countries requiring a visa still need to apply for one at a British Consulate in their country of residence.

The ETA will be trialed as soon as March 2023, as the UK wants to make sure its border is ‘fit for the 21st century…while maintaining national security. The following nationalities will be the first to require authorization to travel:

• Kuwait
• Qatar
• The United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• Oman
• Bahrain

The post UK To Introduce New Pre-Entry Scheme And Fee The American Tourists appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The network will be extended by connecting 38 codeshare destinations in the United States and eight in Canada and can be booked through the carriers’ websites and apps.

“This agreement marks a new phase in our evolving relationship that will speed the recovery from the pandemic and strengthen both carriers,” said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada. ”It will also enable us to optimize our hubs and schedules and to broaden our global network connectivity to maintain our leadership in the market.”

As the travel industry has been buoyed by increased interest in travel across the globe, Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances at United, said: “As international travel continues to recover, this expanded partnership will provide an enhanced experience for all transborder travel.”

Along with agreeing to improve customer policies and advance their sustainability objectives, some of the main benefits of the alliance include:

• Travelers searching for flights between the United States and Canada will find more options, more access to each airline’s seat inventory, and more convenient schedules.
• Members of the frequent-flyer loyalty programs —Aeroplan and MileagePlus— will have more accrual and redemption options and also improved services.
• The airlines expect that this year travelers will be able to connect to 46 transborder codeshare destinations with more than 400 daily frequencies.

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Despite the fact that 90% of respondents said they would recommend a vacation to Hawaii to friends and family, more travelers said they would not return ever or in 5 years compared to the 2021 results.

In a survey of nearly 4,000 tourists, a large percentage of Americans and Canadians, who make up the majority of visitors to Hawaii, said they just would not return.

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) recently released an official report detailing the results of a recent 2022 visitor satisfaction survey. The conclusions were contentious: visitors were overwhelmingly pleased with their travel experiences but did not want to return anytime soon, mainly because of high prices.

A few months ago, John De Fries, President, and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), highlighted why Hawaii was rapidly growing in popularity: “An essential component of Hawai‘i’s sustained recovery, the increase in visitor satisfaction during the first quarter is attributable to the numerous, hardworking individuals in our community – from the flight attendants and front desk agents to the stewards of our natural and cultural resources to the musicians and entertainers, and the shop owners and restaurant servers.”

Reasons why visitors won’t be coming back:

Locals are tired of tourists: Local mayor recently asked airlines to cut the number of flights to the islands after locals and authorities protested openly about the excessive number of tourists. 

Travelers can now visit foreign countries: Hawaii was the ideal vacation spot during the pandemic, not only because of its stunning beaches, pleasant climate and fantastic attractions but also because there were not as many other options. Travelers can now visit far-off places that are less expensive.

High cost: With an average hotel price of $371 per night, Hawaii is the most expensive place to stay in the United States. Maui is the most costly island and the average cost of a luxury hotel is $887.

The post Hawaii Is Losing Its Appeal, 90% Of Visitors Do Not Want To Come Back Any Time Soon appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

All travelers are eligible to use the program because it is free and does not require Clear membership.

Passengers simply reserve a time slot for security screening, receive a QR code and use it to check in before entering the Reserve Lane.

Clear Reserve Lanes are currently available at the following airports:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York (JFK)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Arizona (PHX)
• Calgary International Airport in Canada (YYC)
• Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey (EWR)
• Orlando International Airport in Florida (MCO)
• Los Angeles International Airport in California (LAX)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in Washington (SEA)

Travelers can access the service by going to the Clear website, selecting the airport they are departing from, entering their flight details and selecting a time for security screening. The service is free, and only one traveler’s information is needed to book a reservation for a group of up to 10 people.

Reservations can be made up to 72 hours before the scheduled departure time. A 20-minute grace period is allowed for each reservation to ensure that travelers have enough time to pass through security.

In an effort to reduce processing times, TSA is deploying new technology at security checkpoints this year. The improvements will help passengers reach their terminals faster using new scanning technologies and mobile ID options.

Five of these airports are equipped with new technology. This means travelers using the reserve lanes at JFK, PHX, MCO, LAX, and SEA airports can get to the front of the line and take advantage of the best available technology for quick check-in.

“The travel experience can be unpredictable – from the moment you step outside your door to the moment you arrive at your destination,” said Caryn Seidman-Becker, Clear’s CEO, in a press release. 

“We are excited to offer this new experience alongside Orlando International Airport and help give their travelers more predictability and more control over their time. With CLEAR’s solutions, travelers are enjoying faster and easier travel from home to gate.”

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