In travel news for July 21, 2023 we talk about Carnival Cruise Line streamlining the debarkation process, Political Unrest could impact travel in Peru, and Delta Air Lines revamps their small business loyalty program.
Carnival Expands Facial Recognition for Quicker Debarkations
Carnival Cruise Line is increasingly implementing facial-recognition technology at its homeports for smoother and faster debarkations, following successful application during embarkation. The expansion, in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, now includes nine of Carnival's 14 homeports, with New York being the latest. The technology requires passengers to pause at a kiosk for a photograph that is biometrically compared with their passport or visa image for identity verification. With an accuracy rate of 98%, the new process has sped up debarkations by 30%. Though passengers can opt out, this technological leap could drastically improve the disembarkation process at Carnival's homeports.
Navigating Peru: Travel Advisory Amid Unrest
With a new state of emergency declared in Peru due to political Protests, travel advisories have urged travelers to be vigilant and updated. Large protests are expected in Lima and southern Peru, potentially causing travel disruptions and restricted access to the city center. Given the unpredictable nature of these protests, the Foreign Office advises travelers to avoid large gatherings and stay safe. Constant monitoring of local media is encouraged. This comes after months of political instability leading to casualties, especially in the Puno and Apurimac regions. With limitations in emergency services and possible disruptions, travelers are advised to expect delays and disruptions during their stay.
Delta Revamps Business Loyalty Program
Delta Airlines is revamping its SkyBonus loyalty program for small businesses, renaming it SkyMiles for Business, and simplifying the miles redemption process. Companies can join the program without a minimum spending threshold and immediately access travel management tools and personalized offers. The new program is a three-tier system based on the company's annual expenditure with Delta. Companies can start earning miles once they spend $5,000 annually involving at least five traveling employees, and enjoy faster SkyMiles accrual rates after spending $300,000 in a year. The changes also allow companies to transfer SkyMiles to employees as perks.