In Travel News for January 16th, 2023 we talk about Mexico banning all smoking, the first Certified Autism Destination in the U.S., and Norwegian’s recent cost-cutting measures.
Visalia is the First U.S. City to be a Certified Autism Destination
A city in California, Visalia, has become the first U.S. city to become designated as a Certified Autism Destination. This has been years in the making as local tourism partners worked hard to better address the needs of autistic travelers. Currently 42 percent of the cities key hotels as well as several family friendly accommodates have finished specially designed training programs and been certified. In addition to training and certifications tourism related businesses have sensory guides, there is special signage, low-sensory nights, quite spaces, and much more. Also the city has launched what they call the “Hidden Disabilities Sunflower”, travelers can request a free sunflower bracelet or lanyard which alerts trained staff throughout the city that the traveler may need additional support during their visit.
Norwegian Cruise Line Continues to Cut Costs
Norwegian Cruise Line is continuing to cut costs as the cruise line transitions from a relaunch to a more steady state of operations. The most recent cost cutting measure seems to reduce onboard entertainment across the entire fleet. This follows the decision by Norwegian to reduce some rooms to once daily cleaning and turn down service, and increased gratuities starting on January 1st of this year. Norwegian has also undertaken a broad and ongoing effort to improve operating efficiencies, which has lead to a 9% reduction in shoreside staff.
Mexico Bans All Public Smoking
In December Mexico adopted one of the most comprehensive anti-tobacco measures in the world. The measure was unanimously approved by Mexico’s senate and has recently taken effect. This new legislation expands on a 2008 law and effectively bans smoking in any public spaces. This includes beaches, resorts, outdoor restaurants and bars, basically all indoor and outdoor public spaces throughout the entire country. Travelers that violate the new law will face a fine between $50 dollars and $100 dollars. Smokers that refuse to cooperate with authorities could face up to 36 hours in a jail cell. If you t think that’s bad the fine for a business found violating the ban can face up to $46,000 in fines.