Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / January 3, 20251. CVG has a prepared winter operations teamThe award-winning team that is comprised of around 100 crew members use a fleet of snow and ice removal equipment to clear a runway in under 20 minutes. That is equivalent to clearing 12 interstate lanes for approximately two miles! In addition to the runways, taxiways, and aircraft parking areas, the team that is on-call 24/7 clears the airport’s walkways and nearby roads of potentially hazardous winter contaminants. [CVG’s winter operation team keeps the airport open and operational during winter weather events](https://www.cvgairport.com/on-the-horizon/cvg-ops-team-is-ready-for-winter/).2. Check with your airline for the latest flight status informationWinter weather can cause flight delays and cancellations, and that is why CVG recommends that you download your airline’s app to receive the most up-to-date flight status information. While CVG is responsible for keeping the airport open and operational, airlines determine their flight schedules. Additional ways to stay informed include viewing flight status information boards around the Terminal and Concourses and by viewing [CVG’s flight status information webpage.](https://www.cvgairport.com/flights/)3. Arrive earlyThe golden rule of air travel is to arrive at least two hours in advance for a flight within the United States and at least three hours in advance for an international flight. These guidelines especially apply for winter weather. Arriving early gives you more time to navigate any potential traffic slowdowns and allows you to complete the security screening in advance. Plus, you will give yourself extra time to warm up with a hot coffee or meal at CVG before your flight. Tip: to help alleviate anxieties, CVG [displays estimated TSA wait times on its website](https://www.cvgairport.com/).4. Aircraft are deiced as neededDeicing is critical for aircraft safety and performance. Airlines utilize CVG’s deicing areas to remove snow, ice, frost, and other debris from an aircraft’s surface prior to takeoff. This process is completed as timely as possible and is required before aircraft depart. Aircraft are also equipped with technology that can defrost and deice in the air.5. Pack smart for winter weatherHeavy winter clothes are a must-have if you’re traveling to a location that has cold weather. However, keep in mind that sweaters, coats, and boots can add more weight to your checked bag. Check with your airline in advance on weight requirements and weigh your bag before you leave for the airport if you can. It is a good idea to dress in layers, and place gloves, a winter hat, and other essentials in a carry-on bag. Soft-sided luggage tends to be more flexible and can typically fit more easily into overhead compartments.

Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / 12-18-2024CVG Airport and Krohn Conservatory launched a partnership in 2024 that is rooted in serving the Cincinnati region. An eco-friendly airport model is on display at the greenhouse’s popular floral holiday show for at least 20 years. CVG’s replica sits alongside fellow community pillars that connect people and goods all over the world, including Procter & Gamble (P&G), Cincinnati Union Terminal, John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Findlay Market, and more.About Krohn Conservatory and a local company behind the holiday showCincinnati’s Garden of Eden, Krohn Conservatory, is located within Eden Park between the East Walnut Hills and Mount Adams neighborhoods. The Art Deco era conservatory opened in 1933 and has attracted visitors ever since with its impressive display of more than 3,500 plant species throughout six unique showcase rooms. - Fern House - Palm House - Desert House - Orchid House - John Carroll Bonsai Gallery - Seasonal Floral Show RoomThe Seasonal Floral Show Room during the holiday showA Northern Kentucky company, Applied Imagination, has designed, installed, and dismantled each element in Krohn’s holiday show for more than 30 years. It is estimated that nearly 40,000 people visit the show every winter. Applied Imagination’s creations are widely displayed across the country, including at the New York Botanical Garden, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and the United States Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C.A sustainable way to create a Cincinnati regional icon In 2024, Applied Imagination artists used CVG’s Terminal and Air Traffic Control Tower blueprints to create an exact replica of these familiar airport icons.- The entire model is to a 1:130 scale.- The Terminal display is nearly nine feet wide and two feet deep. - The Air Traffic Control Tower is nearly two-and-a-half-feet tall.The creation took around six months to complete, from design to implementation. Artists were creative and sustainable when they created CVG’s sleek look: they used leaves that fell from a Coccoloba tree at Krohn to create the display. The leaves were colored for artistic effect. CVG partnership is also included in the displayAviation enthusiasts who visit the CVG model at the holiday show will quickly spot an Atlas Air cargo plane, a Boeing 747, ready for takeoff. Atlas Air Worldwide has an operations center in Erlanger, Kentucky, close to CVG. The cargo airline and CVG Airport have a strong partnership and are economic engines for the community. The Atlas aircraft is an Easter egg-style addition that complements additional planes that soar above the CVG diorama.When you can view CVG at the Conservatory CVG’s replica will be on display at Krohn’s annual holiday show from early November through early January. If you are unable to make it to the show in 2024, you are in luck! CVG’s display will be a part of the show through at least 2044. To view Krohn’s hours of operation and for ticket information, [click here](https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/krohn-conservatory/).

Get out and see the world! Machu Picchu, Peru.Winter is one of my favorite times of the year to travel (and plan more travel!). You have the perfect combination of smaller crowds and cooler temperatures in popular destinations that don’t offer air conditioning during heatwaves. There are also some phenomenal deals, especially in early December and January through March. (We paid $386 in October for a roundtrip ticket to Paris from CVG in March!)So, pack a coat and some comfy walking shoes, and let me introduce you to five of my favorite winter destinations from CVG.The JW Marriott Miami Golf Course looks incredible. Photo: VisitFlorida#1 The Sunshine of Miami / Ft. LauderdaleFlorida is one of the most popular destinations for travelers from the Cincy region. It’s so nice to escape those gloomy, chilly winter days and spend a weekend (or a week) basking in the sun.Winter is everyone’s favorite time to escape to the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale area. By this time of year, the rainy season has wrapped up, and the risk of a hurricane interrupting your plans is nearly zero. Bars and restaurants are hopping, and there’s a wonderful rejuvenating energy in the warm air.The Ft. Lauderdale Lighthouse at Hillsboro Inlet Beach at Pompano Beach. Photo: VisitFloridaWith nonstop flights on American, Allegiant, Delta, and Frontier, it’s easy to plan a long weekend that fits your schedule. And if it does happen to rain, step into one of the excellent indoor activities like the [Museum of Discovery and Science](https://mods.org/), [NSU Art Museum](https://nsuartmuseum.org/), [Institute of Contemporary Art](https://icamiami.org/), or the giant guitar-shaped [Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.](https://casino.hardrock.com/hollywood)Are you looking for more Florida tips? Check out these [Fabulous Florida Finds](https://www.cvgairport.com/jetwithjay/four-tips-to-help-plan-your-last-minute-florida-vacation/).The face when you find out what happened inside The Tower of London#2 Lovely LondonA few years ago, I asked my wife, “hey, flights are on sale… want to go to London for Thanksgiving?” Of course, she said yes, and we spent four days exploring the city.Patiently waiting for the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace.Now, it’s easier than ever to get to London with nonstop service on [British Airways](https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_us/). (We could have almost had a full fifth day on our trip with the time we’d have saved on a connecting flight.) With four nonstop flights departing each week from November through March—and five flights per week April through October—it’s only about a 7.5-hour plane ride from CVG to Heathrow. The departure time is perfect, generally between 9pm and 10pm, allowing you to save a vacation day, leave after work, have dinner onboard, fall asleep, and wake up around 10am local time.You might even catch a few holiday light displays in London.You’ll enjoy the charm of the city as you take in famous sights like the [Tower of London](https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/) and [Buckingham Palace](https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace). Stroll along the [River Thames](https://www.visitthames.co.uk/about-the-river), and try some authentic British cuisine. Read more about [London](https://www.cvgairport.com/jetwithjay/four-reasons-you-should-be-planning-your-trip-to-london-right-now/) and [Britain’s Best Bets](https://www.cvgairport.com/jetwithjay/britains-best-bets-from-actual-british-people-who-live-in-cincinnati/) in a previous Jet with Jay article.Welcome to New York (It’s been waiting for you).#3 The Big AppleAs a teenager, I was fascinated with New York City. I made it my first big solo trip at the age of 18. After one visit, I knew I wanted to move there and was lucky enough to spend about two years in my early twenties in one of the tiniest apartments you’ve ever seen. Seriously, it was 170 square feet!If you’ve had a chance to visit, you know there’s something special about the city. There’s an energy that draws people back again and again, and winter is an awesome time to go. Temperatures can often be quite comfortable (although you might see a little snowy magic), and the kids are back in school so there are shorter lines at popular attractions like the [Empire State Building](https://www.esbnyc.com/), [Statue of Liberty](https://www.nps.gov/stli/), and [Ellis Island](https://www.nps.gov/elis/). Take a ride on the [Staten Island Ferry](https://siferry.com/), or stroll through [Central Park](https://www.centralparknyc.org/) (grab a sandwich and drinks from a deli for an inexpensive picnic lunch)!There are so many ways to get to the City: many days at CVG, there are more than 20 nonstop flights offered to the three airports that serve the Big Apple (LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark, NJ). Even better? You can pick your favorite airline as American, Delta, United, Frontier, and Allegiant all offer nonstop service! And hey, don’t be afraid to take the [Subway](https://new.mta.info/maps). Everyone else does!Beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado#4 The Rocky Mountains of ColoradoIf it feels like I’m always recommending Colorado, you’re right. And there are many good reasons. Colorado is gorgeous any time of the year, but skiing, snowboarding, winter fishing, and hiking draw tourists from around the world each winter. Nonstop flights to [Denver](https://www.denver.org/) on United, Frontier, and Southwest can be very inexpensive (sometimes on sale for around $125 round trip), and there’s a lot to see and do.The obvious attractions are some of the best ski resorts in the country. But if you aren’t big into skiing, it’s also the perfect time to visit charming mountain towns like [Estes Park](https://www.visitestespark.com/), [Breckenridge](https://gobreck.com/), [Idaho Springs](https://visitclearcreek.com/towns/idaho-springs-colorado/), [Silverthorne](https://www.silverthorne.org/), and [Golden](https://www.visitgolden.com/). Shops and restaurants are bustling, and towns spring to life after fall break. Another tip if you’re trying to find affordable accommodations and you aren’t there to hit the slopes is to look at towns at the base of the mountains or in areas away from ski resorts. Denver enjoys about 300 days of sunshine every year and is a great place to spend a few days.For the colder/rainier/snowier days, there are many options, including breweries, indoor kids’ play areas, outlet malls, and cozy bookstores. Check out more [Jet with Jay recommendations](https://www.cvgairport.com/jetwithjay/heres-why-colorado-should-be-your-next-vacation/) for your mountain vacation.We made it to Machu Picchu!#5 Lima, Peru (and beyond)Speaking of mountains, one of the biggest bucket list travel destinations—and most Instagrammed places on Earth—is [Machu Picchu](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/274/), Peru. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to step foot in such a magical place. We spent two weeks in Peru, and it was one of the most life-changing trips I’ve ever taken. Flying into Lima is easy with one-stop options from CVG on American, Delta, and United. And the flight time isn’t too bad at all. Once you get to Atlanta or Miami to connect, for instance, it’s only another five or six hours onward to Peru. Winter is a great time to visit, especially for last-minute types like me. With fewer crowds, wait times are shorter for attractions, and you may not have to book in advance for some popular destinations. (But double-check to be safe.) Musicians and dancing in Lima, Peru.We enjoyed our visit to the [Sacred Valley](https://www.peruforless.com/travel-guides/sacred-valley) with stops in [Pisac](https://www.machutravelperu.com/blog/pisac), [Ollantaytambo](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g294319-Ollantaytambo_Sacred_Valley_Cusco_Region-Vacations.html), [Aguas Calientes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aguas_Calientes,_Peru), Machu Picchu, and [Cuzco](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/273/). The natural beauty, warm and friendly people, and affordable prices make this an outstanding adventure for solo travelers, couples, or families. It’s important to note that December through March is the rainy season, and some attractions can be closed or have limited operating hours. The end of March can be great for mild weather and good deals.Ceviche is always a good idea. Lima, Peru.Have a great winter travel idea? I’d love to hear it! You can find me @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [X](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial).-Jay

Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / November 15, 2024Many travelers share a common thought: I will feel better once I get through the security line and find my gate.Some passengers traveling with disabilities, such as Dr. Kara Ayers, “just want to have the same worries that all the other frenzied air travelers do.”Dr. Kara Ayers is with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and is also associate director at the University of Cincinnati Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. She is an expert in accessible travel, not only because of her professional and academic expertise, but also because she uses a wheelchair full-time and often travels through the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Although Dr. Ayers is familiar with flying with a wheelchair, millions of Americans choose not to travel by air with their wheelchair because of historical inadequate practices. CVG Airport is committed to making flying more accessible for all. In spring 2024, [CVG hosted a virtual wheelchair accessibility panel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9a8M9huLto) in partnership with the [University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute](https://hdi.uky.edu/). The goal of the panel was to discuss opportunities for the advancement of accessibility in air travel and to inspire change across the aviation industry. Four full-time wheelchair users, including Dr. Ayers, shared their experiences of flying through CVG and throughout the world. The conversation was moderated by UK’s Jason Jones and was also attended by David Allgood from the Kentucky Center for Accessible Living and Paul Erway of Superior Van and Mobility. During the conversation, the panelists praised CVG’s accessible environment including the airport’s easy-to-navigate, wide hallways. The panelists also said they appreciated familiar faces of employees at CVG. L-R top row: Dr. Kara Ayers, Jason Jones\L-R bottom row: David Allgood, Paul ErwayThe panelists also highlighted improvements that could be considered across the aviation industry. The group spoke about misconceptions when they travel by air. For example, many times they have experienced being assigned an aisle seat on the plane due to the perception that it may be easier for them to transfer from their wheelchair to their assigned seat. Dr. Ayers shed light on how that is not always the easiest and preferred option. “Because I pre-board, that means that I'm already on the plane. I can't get up, so the person who is sitting in the window seat literally [has to] climb over me. For that reason, I would actually prefer a window seat because I can get in that just fine,” said Dr. Ayers. Jones said he often has an experience when a person incorrectly assumes he cannot make decisions for himself and asks questions to the person he is traveling with instead of directly speaking with him. He said another common frustration involves fellow travelers seeing people who are in wheelchairs and choosing not to speak to them because they are afraid of making a mistake. “Don’t miss out on developing a relationship with somebody because you’re scared that you’re going to do something wrong…at the end of the day, it’s about inclusion and making everybody feel like they're part of something,” said Jones. Each of these experts underscore the importance of others recognizing that a wheelchair is an extension of a disabled person’s body. It is critical for wheelchairs to be taken good care of by aviation workers. In addition, wheelchair users can take advantage of accessibility resources that CVG has made available. - CVG has a familiarization tour program that is available to all travelers who would like to receive first-hand experience of the airport journey before their trip, including navigating from ticketing counters on arrival through boarding at the gate. [Click here](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/cvg-tours/) to learn more and request such a tour.- All travelers can contact their airline in advance of travel to communicate specific needs and request accommodations. For wheelchair users, this is a good opportunity to discuss your device’s specific care instructions.- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers personalized assistance during screening through the [TSA Cares program](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/disabilities-and-medical-conditions). [Contact TSA in advance](https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares) of travel to request this service. These panelists remain optimistic that air travel will continue to be transformed as new accessibility technologies are developed and as airports, airlines, government agencies, and advocacy groups continue to collaborate. Through continued communication, research, and advocacy, air travel will continue to be an equitable mode of transportation for all.All those who travel through CVG are invited to be a part of the conversation. If you have questions or ideas you’d like to share, please reach out to info@cvgairport.com.

November 13, 2024On November 13, 2024, CVG’s board announced that Lawrence J. Krauter, A.A.E., AICP, will succeed Candace McGraw as the airport’s CEO in 2025. Mr. Krauter is a 36-year veteran of the airport industry and currently serves as CEO of Spokane’s (Washington) Airport System, a role in which he has served since 2011.Get to know Larry a bit better and learn why airports and the aviation industry are his passion and life’s work by reading through these five Q&As. 1. Why did you choose a career in airport leadership?During my early childhood, my father traveled often for work, and I remember the excitement of being at the airport to see him off or to welcome him home. There was always so much activity, and the hustle and bustle of workers and passengers made a big impression on me that the airport was an important place. I was also able to fly with my dad from time to time on some of his trips, and I recall being brought up to the cockpit of an Eastern Airlines 727 to meet the flight crew and receive my plastic wings. When I was 11 years old, I announced that I would attend Ohio State University and major in aviation. I had always been interested in public service, as well as city and regional planning, so a career in airport management combined all of those passions. Airports are incredibly complex organizations that must be safe, efficient and financially viable. I have told people many times, in addition to being a leader, I am a serious public servant and a serious business person.2. What has been your proudest professional accomplishment?After 36 years serving in the industry, that is a difficult question to answer as there have been many of those moments! For me, it is about helping people to achieve their professional goals and to be the absolute best that they can be. That translates to the entire airport team being renowned for their abilities and for what we can deliver as a team. I am also proud of developing leaders in the airport management profession. This is followed closely by achieving substantial job creation and economic impact at the airports I have served. A job is the pathway to prosperity and a good life, and supporting regional economic development is something that I have excelled at and enjoy. Finally, I will add that I enjoy solving complex challenges, whether that is in terms of delivering world-class facilities and service or achieving legislative goals. The opportunity to work in such an intellectually demanding role and to be recognized as a leader in the airport management profession is very satisfying.3. What excites you most about the future of the aviation industry?Two things. Airport development is economic development, and aviation can serve as a catalyst for so much more investment in a region, as well as enabling new opportunities through achieving greater connectivity on a global basis. Airports are just at the beginning of being recognized and understood for the true businesses that they are as opposed to being thought of as utilities. ‘Airport Cities’ will continue to develop around innovative transportation and logistics solutions that are driven by airports and their business partners. The airports that achieve this faster will break into new levels of prosperity for their communities.The second thing that excites me are the people that make the vision happen and the excitement around recruiting top talent into the industry, retaining that talent, upskilling that talent, developing leaders and creating a team environment that allows growth and drives outsized results.4. Tell us a little about your family.I have a wonderful and supportive spouse, Robin, and we have been married for over 22 years. She is an accomplished insurance industry professional and an incredible mother to our daughter, Lauren, who is in her senior year at Cal Poly majoring in animal science with the goal to become a veterinarian. We also have an Australian Shepherd named Kalla and an Orange Tabby cat named Scotchy that we have been housing until Lauren reclaims her when she graduates.5. What do you like to do when not working?I enjoy reading, flying general aviation aircraft (I am a single-engine land and seaplane rated pilot) and perennial gardening (Robin is in charge of annuals!).

CVG Airport / Cassie Kiser / November 4, 2024Traveling doesn’t have to be an excuse to break your wellness routine, especially when fresh, fast, and nutritious options are available. CVG Airport has partnered with SAMBAZON® Açaí Bowls to bring nutrient-packed ingredients to travelers. The new location in [Concourse B near gate B19](https://www.cvgairport.com/map/?assetId=425) is one example of how CVG is elevating passengers’ dining choices by offering more quick-service and healthy food options.What is açaí?Açaí (“ah-sigh-EE”) is an Amazonian berry known for its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, which are ideal before and after travel. SAMBAZON® açaí bowls have a frozen base made from the purple açaí berries. Fresh toppings are displayed on the counter; you can choose from bananas, mangoes, strawberries, blueberries, nuts, seeds, granola, coconut, and more. The CVG location also has warm oatmeal bowls, coffee, and grab-and-go beverages, such as SAMBAZON’s Amazon Energy™ drinks.Where does SAMBAZON® açaí come from?SAMBAZON® is the world’s first [certified fair trade and organic açaí company](https://www.sambazon.com/blogs/sustainability/palm-to-palm-our-commitment-to-fair-trade-acai). The berries are hand-harvested by local Amazonian farmers to protect the ecosystem. The berries are transported by riverboat and are processed at advanced, eco-friendly facilities.Why should CVG travelers consider trying SAMBAZON®?Açaí bowls and smoothies are ideal for travelers of all ages because they are healthy, portable, and convenient. The vitamins and antioxidants in the berries help you feel full and energized while also boosting your immune system. The SAMBAZON® food containers make it easy for passengers to take a meal onto their flight or to grab on the way to [Baggage Claim](https://www.cvgairport.com/accessibility/facility-access-info/).What other healthy food options are at CVG?CVG continues to feature and expand healthy food options available to travelers.- [Vino Volo](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=vino+volo+) in both concourses offers locally sourced salads from 80 Acres Farms. Salad kits from 80 Acres are also available in every retail shop at CVG. - [Farmer’s Fridge](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=Farmer%27s+Fridge) located in Ticketing and at the gates in both concourses offers fresh foods, such as Greek yogurt bowls, as well as a variety of salads and wraps.- [Subway](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=subway) in Concourse A and at the vending machine near Ground Transport West sells deli subs and sandwiches. - [Wendy’s](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/?query=wendy) in Concourse B offers chili and grilled chicken.[Click here](https://www.cvgairport.com/map/?assetId=425) for a map and a short description of many more dining options available at CVG.If you’re interested in learning more about SAMBAZON®, [click here](https://www.sambazon.com/blogs/nutrition/is-acai-a-superfood).

Hey, look at that!For the past four years on the Jet with Jay blog, we’ve highlighted incredible destinations, flight deals, and how to travel better for less. In this edition we want to feature 10 things at CVG that you might not have known about! The folks at CVG continue to renovate, upgrade, and improve the amenities and travel experience at the airport so read on for more must-see items before you next fly out of CVG.1. CVG Airport Library near gate B12It sounds too good to be true, but you can grab a free book at the Airport Library, and you don’t even need a library card. Several local libraries (Kenton County Public Library, Boone County Public Library, Campbell County Public Library, and the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library) partnered with CVG to supply books to travelers. When you’re done with a book, you can return it to the Airport Library or to any of the participating libraries. If you have extra books around your house, you can donate them to the Airport Library or to any of the partner libraries. It’s a win-win! The library is open 24/7—the same hours as the airport.Welcome to your new favorite library!2. Escape Lounge near gate B21One of my favorite spots to relax before a flight is [The Escape Lounge](https://escapelounges.com/us/locations/cincinnati-northern-kentucky/) next to gate B21. The lounge offers delicious food options, tasty beverages, cozy workspaces and a relaxing environment. It’s open to the public; you don’t need to be a member of an airline loyalty program or credit card holder! However, it is free for American Express Platinum and Delta SkyMiles Reserve card holders. Tip: book at least 24 hours in advance and save $5.No membership or credit card points needed!Mimosas with new friends in The Escape Lounge3. Kids Play Area in Concourse B If you’re like our family and traveling with young kids, you know it’s always helpful to have some play time before a flight. (On a recent trip, my child was trying to run through the airport yelling “I’m burning off energy!”) CVG offers a Kids Play Area near the food court in Concourse B. The Concourse B Kids Play Area near the food court has soft surfaces and a very cool animal theme thanks to the folks at the Cincinnati Zoo. It’s a great place to bring bored kids before it’s time to board. Plus, there are a lot of windows that allow for great airplane viewing.4. Sensory Room in Concourse ACVG has a Sensory Room in Concourse A, which is designed to help travelers who are neurodivergent and need a place to recenter. Located on the way to gate A4, the Sensory Room offers a space for travelers to decompress and mute the hustle and bustle of the airport.5. Book ahead and eliminate stress by [reserving your parking spot ahead of time](https://parking.cvgairport.com/book/CVG/Parking?parkingCmd=collectParkingDetails)You can reserve a space in CVG ValuPark, CVG Economy Lot, and the CVG Terminal Garage. This is a popular feature that CVG added in 2024, so please note spaces are limited. Pro tip: check out CVG’s freshly-updated homepage to find out how many parking spaces are available at each option before leaving for the airport.Book ahead and eliminate stress!6. Healthy food options with local rootsI know it’s hard eating healthy at the airport, but CVG makes it easy! Plus, doesn’t it feel better knowing the food you’re eating is locally and freshly sourced? Here are some of the options you can try the next time you fly. Concourse A - 80 Acres salads at Vino Volo - Farmer’s Fridge vending machine Concourse B - Sambazon Acai Bowls - 80 Acres salads at Vino Volo- Farmer's Fridge vending machine7. Mamava PodsMy wife has been so impressed with the free Mamava Pods at CVG, and they were so helpful for her and our baby. They provide a clean, quiet, and private space for pumping or breastfeeding moms with extra room for a partner and luggage if needed. They also have AC and USB power for pumps and charging a phone/tablet before a flight. You’ll find one conveniently located near gate A4 and another near gate B12.“These are awesome!” - Mrs. Kruz8. Sunflower Lanyard ProgramSpeaking of traveling with families, the [CVG Sunflower Lanyard Program](https://www.cvgairport.com/accessibility/hidden-disabilities/) aims to make it easier for those traveling with hidden disabilities to navigate the airport experience. A special sunflower lanyard lets employees know that the traveler may need some extra assistance during their journey. The program is free, and lanyards can be found at the Information Booth in Baggage Claim. You can also call (859) 767-3230 or email info@cvgairport.com to have one mailed to you ahead of your next trip.A great way to ensure everyone has a great flight9. Interfaith Meditation RoomIf you’re looking for a quiet spot to pray or meditate, CVG has a special place for you. Open to people of all faiths, the Interfaith Meditation Room has a dedicated reading area, devotional material, and prayer rugs. There are also power outlets for charging your phone or tablet before your flight. You’ll find this space near gate B14.A welcoming place for all people.10. Arts in the AirportThanks to a partnership with [ArtsWave](https://www.artswave.org/), CVG invites local musicians to perform for travelers throughout the year. From jazz to folk, hip-hop to rock, and everything in between, you might just find yourself treated to a pop-up concert on the way to or from your next flight! In addition to live music, CVG also showcases prints of iconic ArtWorks murals through "Art On Board," bringing the vibrant art of the Cincinnati region right to the airport tram tunnels. Featuring 18 colorful murals, this display immerses travelers in the creative energy of the Queen City. [Learn more here.](https://www.cvgairport.com/terminal-information/art/art-on-board/)Spend a minute exploring your airport the next time you have a few extra minutes before your flight! Have a favorite spot at CVG you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), or [X (formerly Twitter).](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial) I’m always on the lookout for low fares. Visit Jay’s [Deals](https://jetwithjay.cvgairport.com/jays-deals/) page for the best fares to destinations around the world from CVG. -Jay

Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / October 8, 2024CVG Airport is a special place where important moments in people’s lives unfold. It is where heartfelt reunions take place daily, but two 90-year-old women, who were once professional baseball players, were in a league of their own at CVG in early September.Mary Moore met her long-term friend, Lois Youngen, at CVG’s Baggage Claim after Youngen flew from Oregon to CVG. The duo was in town to attend the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) annual reunion that was held in Cincinnati this year. Moore was a second basewoman for the League and Youngen was a catcher. Mary Moore (left), Lois Youngen (right)Lois Youngen was 'practicing at CVG'Mary Moore and Lois Youngen had a ball at the airportAAGPBL was the forerunner of women’s professional sports in the United States. It began in 1943 during World War II while many male baseball players were fighting overseas. It provided an opportunity for women to competitively play baseball and build morale across the country.Photo credit: All American Girls Professional Baseball League | (L-R) Lois Youngen, Mary MooreThe League’s first reunion took place in 1982. At that time, more than 300 women from the organization attended. In 2024, less than 10 were able to join. The athletes said because of their age and health conditions, it’s more important than ever to gather in person.“We’re friends, but we belong to one organization and are so close that we all feel like family,” said Moore. “Any time we meet one of our other players, you will always see big smiles, big hugs, and just so much happiness.”Mary Moore and Lois Youngen shared a warm hug when they reunited at CVGAfter Moore and Youngen reunited at CVG, they met up with fellow players. The next day, the group of trailblazers attended a Cincinnati Reds’ game. They walked on the field and Youngen, who had been ‘practicing’ her skills at CVG, caught the first pitch of the game that was thrown by fellow player in the League, Katie Horstman. They were Fort Wayne Daisies teammates; Youngen was the catcher and Horstman was the pitcher.Photo credit: Cincinnati Reds |Katie Horstman throwing the first pitch to YoungenPhoto credit: Cincinnati Reds | (L-R) Mary Moore, Dolly Vanderlip Ozburn, Gloria McCloskey Rogers, Katie Horstman, Jeneane DesCombes Lesko, Lois YoungenThey also participated on a panel at the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. The women discussed their experiences in the League and how it impacted their lives. The queens of baseball meeting in the Queen City, where the sport began, was a home run, and CVG was excited to play a small part in connecting these friends and teammates for a very special reunion.Get to know Mary MoorePhoto credit: All American Girls Professional Baseball LeagueMoore was a star player for the Springfield Sallies. In 1951, the second basewoman from Michigan led the team in games played (77), hits (75), total bases (96), home runs (3), runs scored (65), and RBIs (48) in 1951. She suffered a severe hand injury while working in a factory in the off-season and returned to the League for Battle Creek in 1952 before she then had a career-ending ankle injury. Today, Moore remains active. She’s on a bowling team and enjoys playing golf. [Read Moore’s full player profile](https://aagpbl.org/profiles/mary-moore-sis/161).Get to know Lois YoungenPhoto credit: All American Girls Professional Baseball LeagueYoungen, who is from Westfield Center, Ohio, played for a few different teams in the League but notably played for the Fort Wayne Daisies in 1952 under the management of Hall-of-Famer Jimmie Foxx. He was inspiration for the character of Jimmy Dugan in ‘A League of Their Own.’ In 1954, Youngen finished the year, the last year of the League, with .284 batting average. She earned a Ph.D. in 1971 and retired in 1996 from the University of Oregon as Director of Physical Activity and Recreation. [Read Youngen’s full player profile](https://aagpbl.org/profiles/lois-youngen/468).

8/16/2024Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / August 2024Economic growth in the Cincinnati region is fueled by aviation-related economic development. CVG Airport – one of the world’s fastest growing cargo airports – joined its regional partners, REDI Cincinnati, BE NKY, and JobsOhio, on the world stage in participating in the Farnborough Airshow in July 2024. The global event took place just outside of London, England. In addition to promoting how CVG has helped spur tremendous growth for DHL Express and Amazon Air as [North America's sixth-largest cargo airport](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/), the Airshow provided valuable opportunities to promote major developments underway at CVG, including [Hangar Row](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/hangarrow/) and CVG [Global Logistics Park](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/globallogisticspark/). These two projects are key components of the airport’s vision to create a self-sufficient aviation ecosystem.An environmental study is currently underway on the Hangar Row site, and this activity is quickly building the case for investment opportunities. The site covers 350 acres of prime airport real estate, with direct connections to taxiways and CVG’s longest runway. The vision of Hangar Row is to create a one-stop shop for any aircraft maintenance and manufacturing-related needs. “We want our partners to have the opportunity to acquire resources they need without leaving our campus,” said Rich Elwell, director of commercial management, CVG. “Hangar Row will complement the existing business operations at CVG, as well as future business partners.” Global Logistics Park also contributes to CVG’s plan of creating a self-sufficient aviation ecosystem. Freight forwarders and cargo operators will have direct access to aircraft ramps and multiple truck loading docks when this site is built out. In addition, the Park will diversify cargo operations at CVG because its supporting facilities and infrastructure will allow for businesses to ship high-value goods and large parcels that do not have time-sensitive delivery requirements as is often the case with express air cargo and e-commerce logistics fulfillment. “CVG is a critical element of the Cincinnati region, already supporting more than 49,000 direct and indirect jobs and a $9.3 billion annual economic impact,” said Simon Wood, director of air service development, CVG. “We are working quickly to fill Global Logistics Park, which will boost cargo efficiency at CVG.”Hangar Row and Global Logistics Park are new developments underway at CVG. The team that attended Farnborough continues conversations from the Airshow and welcomes the opportunity to connect. To learn more about these opportunities, [click here](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/business-opportunities/air-service/air-cargo/). Photo courtesy of REDI Cincinnati. Pictured from left to right: Kevin Donnelly, REDI; Rich Elwell, CVG; Kimm Lauterbach, REDI; Candace McGraw, CVG; Kimberly Rossetti, BE NKY; Simon Wood, CVG

Have you visited St. Thomas yet?A weekend with friends, a family adventure, or a romantic escape off the grid—whatever your reason to get away, let’s help with some new vacation ideas!A Clearwater Beach sunsetFamily Vacation: Tampa / Clearwater / St. Petersburg, FloridaDestin and Orlando have always been solid destinations for families, but if you’re looking for a change of scenery, consider flying to Tampa.Thrills await at Busch Gardens TampaWhat to do:- Find coasters and family fun at [Busch Gardens](https://buschgardens.com/)- Hop on a streetcar and visit [The Florida Aquarium ](https://www.flaquarium.org/)- Take in a Tampa Bay Lighting, Rays, or Buccaneers game - See the animals at [Zoo Tampa](https://zootampa.org/)- Head down to Clearwater Beach and soak up some sun- On a rainy day, visit the [Glazer Children's Museum](https://glazermuseum.org/)The 250,000 square foot Florida Aquarium is perfect on rainy daysHow to get there:Daily non-stop flights to TPA on Frontier and Delta are about two hours long. St. Petersburg-Clearwater airport (PIE) is also an option with daily non-stop flights from Frontier. Many great hikes await in Colorado SpringsOutdoor Enthusiasts: Colorado Springs, ColoradoYou’ll love hiking throughout this area and visiting one of two dozen trails with spectacular views and varying difficulty levels. There are also a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to charming short-term rentals. Since it is around 6,000 feet above sea level, consider staying a day or two at the start of your trip to help acclimate to the elevation before heading up into the mountains.Garden of the Gods National ParkWhat to do:- [Garden of the Gods Park](https://gardenofgods.com/) with miles of trails to explore- [Red Rock Canyon](https://coloradosprings.gov/redrockcanyon) offers more spots to scope out- Join a [four-wheel drive group tour](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g33364-Activities-c61-t211-Colorado_Springs_El_Paso_County_Colorado.html)Let’s head off-road!- Spend a day and check out the outdoor arcade in nearby [Manitou Springs, CO](https://manitousprings.org/)- Visit [Helen Hunt Falls](https://coloradosprings.gov/helenhuntfalls) or [Palmer Park](https://coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/palmer-park)Helen Hunt FallsHow to get there:Go nonstop to Denver (DEN) on one of five daily flights of your choice offered by Southwest, Frontier, Delta, or United. Snag a rental car and make the scenic one-hour drive to Colorado Springs.A time-lapse along the Thames RiverFirst Time across the Atlantic: London, EnglandIf you’ve always wanted to visit Europe but aren’t sure where to begin, London is a great first-time trip. With a nonstop flight from CVG to Heathrow (LHR) via British Airways, getting there is easy; incredible cuisine and historic sights await so it’s an ideal trip.Westminster AbbeyWhat to do:- See hundreds of years of history at [The British Museum](https://www.britishmuseum.org/) (bonus: it’s free!)- Visit [Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament](https://www.parliament.uk/about/living-heritage/building/palace/big-ben/)- Take a guided tour of the [Tower of London](https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/)- Step inside historic [Westminster Abbey](https://www.westminster-abbey.org/)- Relax in [Hyde Park](https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/hyde-park) (the other one)- Stroll through the shops and restaurants of [Covent Garden](https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/london-areas/covent-garden)Covent Garden is spectacular during the holidays.How to get there:Fly nonstop from CVG on British Airways and be in London in under eight hours! There are five flights a week in the summer. There are also one-stop flight options on American, Delta, and United.Amazing views are everywhere in St. ThomasCaribbean without a passport: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin IslandsVisiting the Caribbean is a favorite for Cincinnati-area travelers, especially in the colder months. But for those looking for a last-minute vacation without enough time to get a passport, the U.S. Virgin Islands are an excellent choice. St. Thomas offers amazing beaches, snorkeling, diving, mountain views, and tasty cuisine. The top-rated beaches of Magens BayWhat to do:- Spend some time relaxing on the beach at [Magens Bay](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g147406-d149849-Reviews-Magens_Bay-Magens_Bay_St_Thomas_U_S_Virgin_Islands.html)- Get up close with dolphins at [Coral World Ocean Park](https://coralworldvi.com/)- Snorkel at [Coki Point Beach](https://www.vinow.com/stt/stt-b/coki-point/)- Take a boat ride to nearby [St. John](https://www.visitusvi.com/st-john/)- Enjoy breathtaking views on the [Skyride to Paradise Point](https://www.paradisepointvi.com/)- Rent an ATV and explore the IslandAbundant sea life surrounds you while snorkeling in St. Thomas.How to get there:Multiple daily one-stop flight options are available year-round on American, Delta, and United. Consider a trip in January or February for nice weather, fewer crowds, and better deals. This is a popular spring break destination, and prices can jump in April. Also, good deals can be found in the summer, but keep in mind that is the rainy/hurricane season.Hello Savannah!Romantic Getaway: Savannah, GeorgiaAny destination with that special person can be romantic, right? But some destinations are made for a romantic vacation, and Savannah fits the bill. From late-night strolls through historic streets to a short 20-minute trip to Tybee Island for some beach time, Savannah is perfect for a long weekend or week-long stay.The live oaks of Savannah create the perfect shady canopy.What to do:- Utilize one of the hop-on / hop-off trolleys of [Old Town Trolley Tours](https://www.trolleytours.com/savannah) or [Old Savannah Tours](https://oldsavannahtours.com/) and see the city at your own pace- Go on one of the popular [ghost tours](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Products-g60814-t12066-zfg11866-a_contentId.129029782547+14161074705-Savannah_Georgia.html)- Bring your walking shoes and check out the famous [historic district](https://visitsavannah.com/historic-landmark-district)- Visit the [Cathedral of St. John the Baptist](https://savannahcathedral.org/)- See the live oaks at the [Wormsloe Historic Site](https://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe)- Enjoy water views along [Riverfront Plaza](https://visitsavannah.com/profile/john-p-rousakis-riverfront-plaza/6142)Riverfront Plaza is a perfect place to take an evening walk.How to get there:It’s only a one hour and 40 minute flight, and Allegiant offers nonstop service to SAV five times per week. They’re timed nicely; you can leave on a Thursday after work and return home on a Sunday evening. There are also many one-stop flight options on American, Southwest, Delta, and United.The Tybee Island lighthouseNeed some inspiration for your next adventure? Visit the Jay’s [Deals](https://jetwithjay.cvgairport.com/jays-deals/) page to find low fares for any occasion!Have any suggestions for a trip? Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), or [X (formerly Twitter)](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial), and let me know!I’ll see you on a hiking trail in Colorado!-Jay

One of the critical functions at CVG is the Airport Operations Center (AOC), where a team full of telecommunicators serve as the watchful eyes and ears of the airport. How do they do this? This specialized team is constantly monitoring all aspects related to safety and operations at the airport while fielding emergency and non-emergency phone calls. At times, the team answers as many as 120 calls daily; more than 5,000 calls are fielded per month during peak times. All of this happens while they juggle a multi-channel radio system, monitor alarms, provide security access to perimeter gates, and page over the intercom systems.The team stays busy. CVG welcomed 8.7 million passengers in 2023, a 15% increase over 2022, and there are more than 16,000 badged employees working across the airport campus.“Earlier in the year, I took a 9-1-1 call from an employee who works with an aviation business at CVG. He had just ended his shift and was walking with a coworker. Once they reached their cars and were saying their goodbyes, the coworker started to have a seizure and was bleeding from biting his tongue. The caller stated that he had never had to call 9-1-1 before and he was scared. With the extensive training I had, I was able to calm the caller so that he was able to answer questions and listen to pre-arrival instructions before airport firefighters arrived on scene,” said Madison Rechtin, telecommunicator.Madison, along with her coworkers, are experts in providing over the phone medical directions before help arrives. They are friendly and remain calm with each caller throughout their shifts and know what action to take when a person needs them the most.“I received a call from a worried mom, who was concerned about her daughter, who is visually impaired. The daughter was trying to fly back home, but she missed her first flight, and her phone battery was dying. I looked at the camera and found the daughter. I then asked a public safety assistant (PSA) to check in on her. The PSA helped the daughter make her way to the ticketing counter so she could get her flight rebooked. I called the mom to tell her the good news, and I connected her with the airline for further assistance. Helping the family was rewarding, and we are always happy to lend a helping hand,” said Kaitlyn Howard, telecommunicator.While calls like the one Kaitlyn described are some of the most heartwarming, other calls may surprise you.“I have talked a caller through AED (automated external defibrillator) instructions then my next call was to enter a work order for a loose toilet seat,” said Jennifer Van Fleet, lead telecommunicator.The telecommunicators dispatch maintenance crews for routine services. If an employee or passenger sees a safety hazard at CVG, they are encouraged to call dispatchers at 859-767-7777 to report the issue. The team of dispatchers also verify IDs for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and other agencies, help passengers locate lost items, and even coordinate mutual aid calls for when a surrounding jurisdiction needs help from airport firefighters or airport police.“We do camera and investigative work for police officers and handle multiple radios and numerous phone calls. We also monitor the weather, help travelers with customer service issues, and ensure first responder safety,” responded Sara McLaughlin, telecommunicator.Although their jobs are high-stress and high-stakes, the team remains a very tightknit group, working together in 12-hour shifts and providing 24/7 dispatch coverage for CVG.“Each and every person in the AOC will jump in and help and back up their partners and each other without hesitation. I can say from personal experience that the comradery we have here is not always present at every other dispatch center. What we have here is unique and could be used as an example for other centers to follow,” said Jason Chambers, telecommunicator.If working on CVG’s telecommunicator team might be a career for you, you are encouraged to apply online at [jobs.cvgairport.com](https://www.cvgairport.com/careers/jobs/), or reach out to hrinfo@cvgairport.com for questions. If you are not looking for a job now but are interested in how you can keep others safe, this is how you can contribute.How you can help1. For emergency calls (medical, fire, life safety, accidents, etc.) call 911. Clearly identify your location as CVG Airport and give the specific operational area of the emergency.2. For non-emergency and administrative calls to Airport Operations, call 859-767-7777 and select the appropriate response in the call tree.3. Please be patient and stay on the line. Due to call volume and the task of juggling multiple calls and radio traffic, you may be placed on a brief hold due to emergency priorities.4. Please be prepared for questions during your emergency call. The protocol of questioning is to get you the best resource and care for your emergency needs. As emergency medical dispatches, we are also providing pre-arrival instructions to help until an emergency responder arrives on scene.5. Be patient on the phone or radio with us; the AOC can get busy, and we are often handling multiple calls at one time.

A helicopter, an assortment of engines, and various small aircraft are some resources available to students at [Epic Flight Academy’s aircraft mechanic school](https://epicflightacademy.com/aircraft-mechanic/). The school held its grand opening ceremony on Monday, April 22 at its new location on CVG’s campus.Students can complete Epic Flight Academy’s program in about 19 months. They will have the opportunity to become FAA-certified airframe and powerplant (A&P) aviation mechanics, which are in high demand, and the students can seek employment at CVG. As one of the fast-growing cargo airports in the world, as well as having robust passenger airline activity, CVG has thousands of jobs across the campus and only looks to increase employment in the years to come, as evidenced by the recent [opening of FEAM Aero’s second aircraft maintenance hangar](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/news/item/business-courier-feam-aero-opens-second-usd45-million-aircraft-repair-hangar/). Many future mechanics are eager for their careers to takeoff.“I’ve been working for an airline for three years. I’ve become friends with other mechanics, and they informed me about this school. It was the right place and right time. I’m excited about electronics and avionics, and I am ready to learn how different computer systems work in each different type of aircraft,” said Elias Unasa, student, Epic Flight Academy. Another student, Dalton Messer, was previously employed in cargo operations, and he is ready for a new opportunity within the aviation industry.“I’m looking forward to being back out on the ramp and being with the planes. I want to learn everything I can, I am really looking forward to it,” said Messer.If you or someone you know is interested in joining Epic Flight Academy’s school, the program is offering year-round open enrollment and has rolling start dates for classes. Eligible students must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent, amongst other requirements. You can learn about the school’s curriculum by visiting [Epic Flight Academy’s website](https://epicflightacademy.com/aircraft-mechanic/), or by calling 1-866-359-3742. The opening of Epic Flight Academy’s aircraft mechanic school at CVG represents another way that the airport has become a self-sufficient ecosystem at the epicenter of e-commerce in the United States and a leading job hub for the Cincinnati region.

You can read for free at CVG. The Airport Library in Concourse B is getting stocked with more than 1,000 donated books ahead of the spring break travel season. This is the biggest haul since the library opened to travelers in the summer of 2023, with nearly 330 adult books and 720 children/teen books.To keep it simple and convenient for passengers, a library card is not required to check a book out of the library. When a reader is finished with a book, they can pass it on to another passenger, bring it back to the Airport Library as they make their way through CVG, or drop it off at a partnering library: Kenton County Public Library, Boone County Public Library, Campbell County Public Library, or the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library.The Airport Library is always accepting book donations of all genres, particularly fiction, adult and children, and nonfiction, such as biographies. If you have literature you’d like to give to the library, you can drop it off at the location in Concourse B or at one of the libraries mentioned above. Dictionaries, yearbooks, and encyclopedias are not accepted but can be donated to the [Friends of the Library](https://www.kentonlibrary.org/about-us/friends/).Planning a trip? [Check out one of these books from the library.](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/list/share/2010838009_kcpljanice/2475742299_your_first_stop_to_getaway)CVG recommends:- ["National Geographic Bucket List Family Travel"](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S184C1013951)- ["The Time Traveler's Wife"](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S184C746250)- ["Oliver Twist"](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S184C985574)Want the "CliffNotes" of the Airport Library? [Watch a short video walkthrough](https://youtube.com/shorts/9ryQ6hATO1U?si=OuNOojXTLuTrjthk).

There’s more to Washington, D.C., than just politics. It doesn’t matter if you lean blue, red, or some kind of purple, you’ll love the historic monuments, top-notch food, and cool hotel options across the DMV (D.C. - Maryland - Virginia). The sculpture is an impressive tribute.You’ve Gotta See Honest AbePerhaps the most famous Washington, D.C., site, the Lincoln Memorial is the highest-ranked attraction in the area. Best of all, it’s totally free, making it the most visited site on the National Mall. Unlike many museums and ticketed sites, the Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Some of the best views and peaceful, special moments can be had when the crowds disperse after dark or in the early morning hours.The Lincoln Memorial overlooking the Reflecting Pool is beautiful in the evening.While the [National Park Service](https://nps.gov/linc/index.htm) offers no formal tours, Rangers are available to answer your questions every day from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (except Christmas). Fun fact: You can go [fishing](https://www.nps.gov/nama/learn/nature/fishing.htm) at the nearby Constitution Gardens, although you might get a few strange looks. How do I know? Well…Even though the fish weren’t huge, it was still a great view.The Smithsonian Museums are a must-seeIt’s not just “The Smithsonian,” but rather 17 different museums, exhibits, art galleries, and even a zoo! From the Air and Space Museum to the African American History and Culture Museum, this impressive collection can be visited entirely free of charge. To better control crowds, some of the sites require advance tickets or timed entry so it’s best to check [this page](https://www.si.edu/visit/hours) and plan ahead.The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History boasts the world’s largest collection of dinosaur bones, animal specimens, rocks, minerals, and tools. That’s over 150 million items! It also offers rotating exhibitions, special tours, and age-appropriate activities for kids.The Air and Space Museum has an impressive display of planes.One of the more unique museums in the District, the National Postal Museum has Earth’s largest collection of stamps. While you’re there, they’ll even give you free stamps to begin your own stamp collection.Georgetown, a quaint neighborhood in a big city.By George, it’s a Cool Town!Nestled along the banks of the Potomac River, the Georgetown neighborhood features authentic cobblestone streets, beautiful buildings, and a wonderful neighborhood vibe. One thing we love to do when arriving in a new city for the first time is to take a “[free walking tour](https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/dc-foot).” Are they really free? Sort of. They’re group tours that are totally free to join. At the end of the tour, you are welcome to pay the guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. This is a great place to try one.Europe? Nope, D.C.!From strolling along the scenic waterfront to dining at hip eateries to checking out the 200-year-old Tudor Place home and museum, you’ll want to spend an entire day here. Then, at night, enjoy bocce bowling at a place called [Pinstripes](https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/pinstripes). Pause a Moment at Moving Memorial SitesD.C. is home to some of the most sacred monument sites in the country. A visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a moving tribute to the sacrifices of our service members. The 19 soldier statues placed throughout the grass and bushes in the Korean War Veterans Memorial are so detailed that you’ll want to spend some time in silence to truly appreciate them. The National World War II Memorial honors soldiers from all 56 states and territories, each with their own pillar circling the fountain.The National World War II MemorialEach year, [Tri-State Honor Flight](https://www.honorflighttristate.org/) allows local veterans to fly from CVG to Washington, D.C., to visit and see the war memorials in person. These monuments are very special places to visit for everyone, though. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, as its website states, teaches millions of people each year about the dangers of unchecked hatred. It’s recommended to get your tickets in advance, as free timed-entry tickets are required to enter the permanent exhibition. The National ArchivesSee the Actual Documents That Started Our NationIt’s not just any archive, it’s The National Archives Museum. This is where our country keeps its most important original documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. And yes, you can actually see them in-person.The back of a $2 bill shows the signing of the Declaration of IndependenceAdmission is, as you might have guessed, free, and no reservation is required. However, $1 timed-entry reservations are recommended from March through September to avoid waiting in a long line. There are also [ongoing exhibits](https://museum.archives.gov/exhibits) that highlight different facets of American life.Feeling fancy? Georgetown Cupcake offers “designer cupcakes”Go Eat All The Food Movers and shakers get hungry - Washington, D.C., is known for having some of the best restaurants in the country. There are two ways I like to find a new restaurant when traveling. The first is TripAdvisor’s highest-rated restaurants. You can check out D.C.’s list [here](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g28970-Washington_DC_District_of_Columbia.html) and find a spot that fits your taste and budget. I also like to use the “Near Me” feature on the TripAdvisor app while traveling. This is perfect for when your stomach starts rumbling and lets you find highly rated restaurants that are close by. Camp Wharf S’mores Bar offers a great place to unwind.[Eater](https://dc.eater.com/maps/dc-best-restaurants-38) offers up their 38 best restaurants in the DMV, while the [Michelin guide](https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/best-of/washington-dc-michelin-best-desserts) highlights some of the fanciest (and most expensive) places to get dessert. After dinner and dessert, cycle off some of those calories on a [bike tour](https://www.fattiretours.com/washington-dc/) of the city.Washington Union Station offers a beautiful photo op.Getting ThereThere are three airports serving the D.C. area. - Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) - Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) - Baltimore / Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) You may have visited the latter, as it’s a popular Southwest hub that many Cincinnati flights connect through. The U.S. Capitol Building at sunset.Like New York City, having three different airports in one spot means more flight choices and better fares. I’ve seen roundtrip fares under $200 for most of the year, oftentimes closer to $100 - $150. There are nearly a dozen nonstop flights year-round from CVG on multiple airlines, including American, United, Southwest, and Delta. Flights leave CVG as early as 6:00 a.m. and return as late as 9:00 p.m., allowing you the flexibility to see as much as possible during the day, then hop on a quick 90-minute flight home.The end of March or early April offer an amazing display of cherry blossoms.Keep an eye on [Jay’s Deals](https://www.cvgairport.com/deals/) page for the lowest priced airfare, and I’ll see you in D.C. soon! -Jay

Soft furniture and squeezy chairs\Furniture in the sensory room invite children to plop down and relax.Therapy rocker\The therapy rocker providers gentle movement for children.Interactive walls\One wall plays animal sounds or music as a child places their hand on the wall. The other wall lights up with interesting and calming colors.Bubble tube\The green bubble tube provides children with the opportunity to focus on visual movement.Small house\This small, soft house is for kids who need their own hide-out before or after a busy flight.Where is the sensory room located?\The room is located next to the Over the Rhine Market in Concourse A and diagonal from Starbucks.CVG strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and accessible journey to all travelers. For questions about accessibility, [email info@cvgairport.com](mailto:info@cvgairport.com).

Updated: November 1, 2024Your vacation starts as soon as you arrive at CVG Airport. Here are some insider tips so you can take off on your trip like a professional.Breeze through lines Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to get through security faster. You need to apply in advance for TSA PreCheck, but CLEAR representatives are available at the airport to help you sign up. Check into your flight in advance using your airline’s app or website. You can expect your airline ticket counter to be busy two hours in advance of your flight. Not sure what you can bring through the security checkpoint? TSA has a detailed list on their [website](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all).Fuel up before your flight If you’re looking to fill up on local beer before your flight, CVG's new brewery, Braxton Brewing Company is open in Concourse A. This new brewery complements the [many other food and drink options at the airport](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/). Mornings are the busiest time at CVG, and—you’ve guessed it—a lot of people prefer to get their coffee before they fly. Use the Starbucks app to order ahead and pick up your coffee in [Concourses A or B](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/). If you arrive at least two hours in advance and want to relax before your flight, we highly recommend the lounges at CVG. Buying a lounge pass gets you unlimited food and drinks before your flight. The Club CVG is in Concourse A, and the Escape Lounge is in Concourse B. Passengers flying on Delta Air Lines also can take advantage of the [Delta Sky Club](https://www.delta.com/us/en/airports/united-states/cincinnati-sky-club-airport-map) in Concourse B.If you are traveling with kids and ready to be on autopilot:Here are tips if you are traveling with children. Planes + food + playtime. It does not get much better than that if you’re traveling with kids. The play area in Concourse B is in the back of the food court near the windows facing the airfield. It is the perfect place to let your kids burn off energy before they fly. Your kids can eat their food, watch planes take off and land, and play in the fun, animal-themed play area. CVG now has a [kids sensory room in Concourse A](https://www.cvgairport.com/on-the-horizon/cvg-airport-opens-first-sensory-room-for-children/) just past Over-the-Rhine Market in the corridor heading to Gate A4. If you want to save the screen time for the flight, the information desks located in both concourses, and in the baggage claim area, have coloring sheets and crayons for your kiddos. If you have a child who is flying for the first time, let an airline representative know. Often, they will give kids a special airline pin, and many pilots will give kids a sneak peak of the plane’s controls.In addition to the tips above, we want to remind all travelers to arrive at least two hours in advance if you’re traveling domestically and three hours in advance if you’re traveling internationally. It’s important to [keep all CVG’s parking options on your radar](https://www.cvgairport.com/parking-options/). This includes CVG Valet, CVG Terminal Garage, CVG ValuPark, and CVG Economy Lot. As you take off on your trip from CVG, whether it is for business or leisure, we would love to see your photos and learn of any pro travel tips you’d like to share with other travelers. Please send them to [cvgcommunications@cvgairport.com](mailto:cvgcommunications@cvgairport.com).

An airport’s runways require routine upkeep similar to the roads and highways we drive on every day. CVG’s airfield is in use nearly 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and frequent use by heavy aircraft requires a robust maintenance program. In summer 2024, CVG is beginning a $29 million rehabilitation project on Runway 18/36C. The project is scheduled to be completed through early December 2024. If you are scheduled to fly out of CVG, don’t worry. Work on this project should not have a significant impact on aircraft operations since CVG has three other runways that aircraft can use. Neighbors living near the airport may experience a temporary change in aircraft activity (increase or decrease) depending on the location.Runway 18/36C is just a bit more than two miles in length at 11,000 feet. When the airport opened in 1947, Runway 18/36 was CVG’s only north/south runway. Over time, CVG has built two parallel runways on either side of 18/36C that are operational.Runways at CVG are generally rehabilitated every eight to 12 years, and a runway is fully reconstructed about every 20 to 30 years (depending on pavement condition). You may remember that CVG rehabilitated its only east/west runway, Runway 9/27, in 2021. Routine maintenance of CVG’s infrastructure ensures the safety of passengers, employees, and aircraft. It keeps the airport operating exceptionally well. As part of this runway rehabilitation project, CVG is completing runway safety area (RSA) grading work, taxiway demolition and relocation, and airfield lighting upgrades.

You can plan out many things when you fly: where you’ll park, what to pack, and when you’ll arrive at the airport. But one of the biggest variables in air travel that often adds stress is the security checkpoint line. If you’ve flown recently, you may have noticed that more people are traveling than ever. And you’re correct. In most places, air travel has returned to pre-pandemic levels with some destinations exceeding 2019 passenger numbers. More passengers = more people to screen at the TSA checkpoint.The good news: after visiting a lot of airports around the world (I believe 51 was the last count), I’ve found that CVG generally has some of the [shortest security wait](https://www.cvgairport.com/) times of anywhere. But during peak seasons and on peak days, even the most efficient airports get crowded. It had me wondering if there are some things we can do at the TSA checkpoint to help keep the line moving. So, I reached out to Mark Howell, regional spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).(Left: I always appreciate a short three-minute wait! Right: My wife’s brilliant hack for traveling with our baby.)Jay: What’s your best advice for packing bags?Mark: So, when you’re preparing, when you’re packing for a trip, we recommend that you start with an empty bag. Make sure there is nothing in any of the pockets inside the bag. And then pack from scratch. Make sure that everything you’re putting in there is allowed to go in a carry-on bag or checked bag if you plan to check luggage. Doing that is going to save you time at the security checkpoint and really, I think that’s what everybody wants—to keep those lines moving quickly.So, speaking of the security checkpoint, how early should somebody show up during the busy seasons, such as Labor Day weekend or around Independence Day?During the holidays, we recommend that passengers get to the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time. But if you’re traveling in what we call the “rush hours” of the early morning and late afternoon, you may want to build in a little bit of additional time on top of that, maybe another 1/2 hour early to make sure that you’ve got enough time to get through the process. Remember: when the airport is processing a lot of passengers on those days and in those times, everything can take a bit more time: finding a parking spot, checking in with your airline, and getting through the security screening process.Now, when you’re going through security at the checkpoint and bringing carry-on bag with you, some items have to go in a carry-on and some have to be checked, right?Yes, there are a lot of items that you can’t bring in a carry-on bag but are perfectly OK for checked luggage. If you have questions about specific items, what is and what isn’t allowed, we have some great resources on our website and our MyTSA app. It’s the “Can I Bring My…” tool. You can type in different items, and it’ll tell you whether or not you can take them in a carry-on bag, if they need to go in a checked bag, or if they’re not allowed on an aircraft at all. It’s a great resource.We’re also on social media. If you want to reach out to us on Facebook Messenger or Twitter (X) at @askTSA, we’ll have a representative answer your questions on the specific items you have.Speaking of social media, I love the TSA’s Instagram. I don’t know that most people would say “Oh, I love this government agency's social media!” But there are some hilarious posts, especially on the things that people try to bring through the checkpoint. Are there any weird items that stand out, like a hall of fame of crazy things people try to bring?First off, I’ll give some kudos to our social media team. They’re trying to find that blend of educating passengers while inserting some humor. I think they do a great job with that.I love to say that we see “everything and the kitchen sink.” The reason I say that is that we once had somebody try to bring a copper kitchen sink through a checkpoint. We also had someone try to bring a four-foot electric weedwhacker through a checkpoint. The passenger had brought it to the ticket document checker with a strap on and across his back. The ticket document checker said, “you can’t take that; you’re going to have to go back and check it.” The passenger didn’t want to leave to go check it, so he left it with the officer. It would’ve been fine if they decided to check it and pay for it, but obviously you can’t bring your weedwhacker on board an aircraft.The most common things that we see any time of the year—but really as we go into the holidays—are oversized liquids. Things that are more than 3.4 ounces must be checked. Pocket knives, self-defense items, and things like power tools are what we see a lot of.Are there still rules when it comes to liquids on board?There are. The 3-1-1 rule remains in effect. You may only have liquids of 3.4 ounces or less in a quart-size bag, and each passenger is allowed one. So, it comes out to “3-1-1.” The only exception to this is any medically-necessary liquid. If you have those type of liquids more than 3.4 ounces, you may bring those through the security checkpoint. However, they will be subject to additional screening; those are things like liquid medication, if you need insulin, if you’ve got breast milk, or anything that’s medically necessary of that sort.You mentioned food for babies, but what about food for grown-ups? Can you bring your home-cooked food with you on a flight? Are there certain foods that you can’t bring along in your carry-on bag?The simple rule of thumb for food is that if you can pump, spread, pour, or spray it, and it weighs more than 3.4 ounces, then you need to pack it in your checked luggage.What about bringing along gifts for family and friends?One tip we give passengers as they travel is that if you are traveling with gifts, don’t wrap them before you travel. We say this because if the item alarms, either at the security checkpoint or in checked luggage, we will have to unwrap it to look before we let it go. So, we recommend using gift bags if you’re traveling with gifts; that way we can look at the item and put it back in the bag. Or just wait until you get to your destination to wrap the item.What if I want to bring my pet along for my trip? Is that cool?Absolutely! One of our officers may ask to pet them when you’re coming through the checkpoint, though. Pets are OK for travel, but this varies greatly by airline, so you need to check with your carrier before coming to the airport for the rules of travel with your pets.Live animals should not be placed in the screening equipment in the checkpoint. This has happened a couple times in the last few years, and we’re really trying to remind passengers not to do that.When you come to the security checkpoint, you will be asked to remove your animal from its carrier. You will need to hand carry them through the security checkpoint. Officers will then carry out additional screening before you proceed through the airport for your flight. But please, please, please do not put your animals into X-ray machines.It’s weird that we have to say that, but we have to say that!It was right around Thanksgiving a couple of years ago when we found a cat in a checked bag. It was “Smells, The Cat” from New York. If you do a Google search for “Smells, The Cat,” you’ll find the story.(I did, and [here’s the story](https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/smells-the-cat-tsa-suitcase-thanksgiving-dinner/index.html) of Smells!)When flying to Toronto with my hockey gear, I made sure to arrive early and check Air Canada’s oversized bag and sports equipment policy.When going through the TSA checkpoint, there are times when I have had to take my shoes and belt off but other times when they’ve said, “you can leave your shoes on and go through.” Does this vary by airport or time of year?At CVG, all screening lanes now use advanced Computed Tomography (CT) machines, meaning you no longer need to remove electronics and liquids from your bag at the security checkpoint. With standard X-ray screening, passengers must take out these items, but CT technology allows you to keep everything in your bag.When traveling through an airport that uses CT machines, like CVG, you simply place your entire bag on the conveyor belt without having to unpack it. This aims to make the process quicker and more convenient compared to the standard X-ray machines where electronics and liquids had to be removed.Additionally, if you're a member of TSA’s PreCheck program, you can keep your shoes and light outerwear on during screening, even in airports with standard X-ray machines. There are also exceptions for removing shoes if you are 75 or older or a minor.According to the TSA, about 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes in line.Let’s talk more about that. TSA’s PreCheck program seems like a great way to save time and hassle, especially during busy travel times. How do I sign up for the program?If you or someone you know is a frequent traveler, TSA PreCheck is a wise investment. Once you are approved, it’s valid for five years from the date of enrollment. After acceptance into the program, you can keep your light outerwear, belt, and shoes on when traveling through security checkpoints. Additionally, you can leave your liquids and electronics inside your carry-on baggage. At many airports, including CVG, there is a separate checkpoint lane for TSA PreCheck, which tends to speed up the process since you don’t have to remove those items.If you’re interested in TSA PreCheck, visit https://www.tsa.gov/precheck to start the pre-enrollment process online. The website provides all the information you need for your in-person interview, including what to bring; of note, CVG has an on-site location for PreCheck enrollment interviews.It is important to note that, once you’re a PreCheck member, the Trusted Traveler Number (TTN) you are issued must be entered when you book each trip with an airline, so your ticket will identify you as part of this program. Mark, thank you so much for all these tips as we kick off the summer travel season.Thank you so much for the opportunity to share more about the TSA and the role we all play in keeping our airports and aircraft moving safely and efficiently.A gorgeous morning on a recent trip to Sintra, PortugalDo you have a great time or money-saving travel tip? I’d love to hear about it! You can reach me on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and X ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial)) at @JayKruzOfficial. -Jay

All-inclusive resorts and sunny beaches are just a short, nonstop flight away.When was the last time you turned off your phone, closed your laptop, and spent some quality time lounging on the beach? If it’s been a minute, let’s chat about why you should consider Cancun and Riviera Maya as your next vacation destination.Soak up the sun in Cancun.The hotel and resort options are endless.Cancun and Riviera Maya (including areas like Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, and the island of Cozumel) are among the most visited tourist regions in Mexico and boast over 120,000 hotel rooms. Whether you’re interested in simple overnight accommodations or want to splurge on a massive, luxury all-inclusive resort on the beach, you’ll find it. Pork tacos, anyone?It can be overwhelming to decide where to go and where to stay. One thing I’d recommend as you begin your trip planning is to hop on TripAdvisor and check out the things you’d like to see and do. Save them as you go, and then view them all on a map. If the majority of things you’d like to see are near Tulum, stay there.These boats are ready to head out from the beach in Cancun.If you don’t want to spend much time exploring and plan to be at a resort for most of your stay, skip right to the hotels page on TripAdvisor and explore the amenities of each property. You can also enter your desired travel dates and compare prices.Punta Sur Eco Beach in Cozumel is picture perfect.Remember you’ll need to factor in travel time from the Cancun airport to your resort. Tulum and areas to the south will take about an hour to reach from the Cancun airport. Cozumel requires a ferry, which will add another 45+ minutes to your journey.Cancun is in sight…ready for landing!It has never been easier to get to Cancun!CVG has several nonstop airline choices to get to and from Cancun easily. Four carriers at CVG offer year-round or seasonal service to the sunny shores of Mexico.- Frontier (departs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays year-round)- Viva Aerobus (departs Sundays year-round)- American (seasonal winter service)- Delta (seasonal winter service)Service days and routes are subject to change at any time.Keep in mind you will need a valid passport to travel to Cancun. Be sure to apply or renew your passport well before you travel and stay up to date on the current processing times [here](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html).Playa Delfines is gorgeous.The beach looks great; what else is there to do?Cancun is home to famous beaches like [Playa Delfines](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/cancun/zona-hotelera/attractions/playa-delfines/a/poi-sig/411558/1342478), and many of my friends can lie out by a pool or in a beach chair for seven days and love every minute of it. And that’s totally cool! I love visiting beautiful beaches and spending some time relaxing, but I usually get a little antsy and want to see what else is happening in a new destination.There are many shopping and dining options in Playa del Carmen.Cancun, Riviera Maya, and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer.Xoximilco CancunThere’s music…with food…and drinks…on a boat with friends! What could be better? Check out [Xoximilco](https://www.xoximilco.com/en/), and enjoy a ride on a trajinera through canals with live entertainment and games paying homage to the famous Xoximilco lagoon. Consider booking your ticket in advance during peak season. Taking control of a monster truck? Yes!XavageAt this thrill park, you can drive your own monster truck and get muddy, take on a ropes course, or hop aboard a jet boat. [Xavage](https://www.xavage.com/en/?langRedirect=1) offers a variety of adrenaline filled activities and includes meals throughout the day. The coolest part is that all activities are unlimited, as is the food. Book in advance for cheaper tickets.Cenotes Dos OjosCenotes’ naturally occurring sinkholes filled with water are beautiful to see in person. Many of them, including [Cenotes Dos Ojos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sistema_Dos_Ojos), located about one hour south of Cancun, offer relaxing swimming, snorkeling, or diving opportunities. The area surrounding the Tulum Ruins adds to the experience.Tulum Archaeological SiteThe ruins of this Mayan city sit along a beautiful coastline, which makes for a perfect day trip from Cancun. Situated about 90 minutes south of the Cancun tourist area, the [Tulum Archaeological Site](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150813-d153186-Reviews-Tulum_Archaeological_Site-Tulum_Yucatan_Peninsula.html) or Tulum Ruins offers the chance to see temples, palaces, and watch towers.Historic Chichen Itza awaits.Chichen ItzaTake a daytrip to one of the most important cultural heritage sites in Mexico, [Chichen Itza](https://www.chichenitza.com/). Over two million people come through this 1,500-year-old site every year. To visit one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” you can book a reputable guide service or check with your hotel to help arrange a tour.Mayan Museum of CancunThis highly rated modern museum features many artifacts and displays the history of the Mayan people and archaeology of Quintana Roo. With an entry fee around $5, the [Mayan Museum of Cancun](https://www.inah.gob.mx/museos/museo-maya-de-cancun) is a great way to spend an afternoon.Tulum RuinsBook a vacation package and leave the planning to the pros.Don’t feel like sifting through hotel reviews or figuring out how to get to and from the airport in Cancun? [Vacation Express](https://www.vacationexpress.com/) and [Apple Vacations](https://www.applevacations.com/) offer complete packages, many of which feature all-inclusive resorts.Check out the lighthouse overlooking the beach in Cozumel.What to know about sargassum?Like many Caribbean, Mexican, and Central American destinations, Cancun beaches have to deal with a build- up of grass called sargassum. It’s not harmful, but it stinks if it sits on shore for a while. Large-scale efforts are in place to reduce the amount of sargassum that washes ashore, and many hours are spent by workers removing the grass if it does reach the shoreline.The “sargassum season” runs from around late January to September. It won’t ruin a trip (we dealt with heavy sargassum on a trip to Belize), but it’s something to be aware of.Taakk Bi Ha Cenote near Playa del CarmenI’m always on the lookout for low fares and post them on the [Jay’s Deals](https://jetwithjay.cvgairport.com/jays-deals/) page. I’d love to hear about your Cancun trip! You can reach me on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and X ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial)) at @JayKruzOfficial.I’ll see you in a lounge chair by the pool!-Jay

After what many are calling the ‘gloomiest winter ever,’ passengers are flocking to CVG Airport to fly south for spring break and summer vacations. In fact, more than 1.6 million people are expected to fly in and out of CVG throughout March and April; that number grew by 10% year over year. The airport’s most popular spring break destinations are: - Tampa (TPA)- Orlando (MCO)- Fort Myers (RSW)- Miami (MIA)- Destin (VPS)If you are one of the many travelers who has their flight booked, CVG has important travel tips for you.1. Reserve a parking spaceNew to the airport, you can pre-pay and reserve a parking space in the CVG Terminal Garage or CVG Economy Lot. Spaces are limited, [book your spot today](https://www.cvgairport.com/parking-options/).2. Free wheelchair assistanceIf you have mobility needs, contact your airline in advance to arrange free [wheelchair assistance](https://www.cvgairport.com/accessibility/) at both your departure and arrival airports. Often, a wheelchair assistant will meet you at ticketing in the Terminal and assist you through the airport to your gate and onto your flight. When you get to your destination, the assistant will then help transport you off the plane and through the airport to your ground transportation.3. Personalized assistance through TSA CaresAnother free option available to all passengers is a program that offers personalized assistance through the TSA security checkpoint called the [TSA Cares program](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/passenger-support). This is especially helpful to a person who has a medical device, disability, or medical condition. In addition, this program is helpful to those who do not speak English as a first language or those wearing or traveling with important religious or cultural items. To request this service, contact TSA at least three days before your flight. You can fill out the [TSA Cares form](https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares) or call (855) 787-2227.4. Free sunflower lanyard signals non-visible disability to aviation employeesCVG participates in the worldwide [Sunflower Lanyard Program for Hidden Disability Awareness](https://hdsunflower.com/us/). Free sunflower lanyards are available at the information desk on the Baggage Claim level or can be ordered ahead of time via info@cvgairport.com or 859-767-3230. This program is helpful for those who want to signal to employes at the airport that they have a non-visible disability or travel anxiety and may need extra support.5. Come home to a clean carYou have a lot to think about before you leave on a trip. Now, at CVG, you can take car-care off the list. When you utilize CVG’s Valet parking service, you can have your car taken care of by the airport’s partner, Vohnt. Your car can get detailed, including pet hair removed, oil changed, tires rotated, and gas topped off while you’re away. [Explore pricing options now.](https://www.vohnt.com/valet-car-care-airport/cvg)6. Reserve a taxi at CVGA cutting-edge taxicab service, zTrip, is now at CVG Airport. The convenient option allows you to walk up to reserve a taxi or book by calling 513-962-1122. You can rest assured that your drivers have met high-quality safety standards. [View the reliable taxi options](http://www.zTrip.com).

Thanks to our travelers who participated in the [Airport Service Quality (ASQ)](https://aci.aero/programs-and-services/asq/) surveys, [CVG has now been named a top airport](https://www.cvgairport.com/business/news/item/nky-tribune-cvg-named-to-aci-worlds-roll-of-excellence-one-of-best-airports/) in North America that serves five to 15 million passengers a year. We are also one of eight airports in the world to be inducted into Airports Council International (ACI) World Director General’s Roll of Excellence – a recognition given to airports that have won multiple ASQ awards over a five-year period.“Delivering an excellent customer experience continues to be a shared priority for all of us at CVG,” said Candace McGraw, CEO, CVG. “We are proud to be included in this year’s Roll of Excellence for the Airport Service Quality Awards, a distinction based on direct, positive passenger feedback over the last five years.”Overall, the ASQ survey results showed that CVG passengers were most pleased with the courtesy and helpfulness of our staff and were most satisfied with the ease of accessing the terminal and traveling through the airport. Every survey response matters to CVG and will be used to continue the airport’s mission of redefining and elevating the role of an airport. If you would like to share your feedback next time you fly through CVG, look for an airport team member being followed by a droid-like robot. That robot is used to carry iPads for the surveys. We guess you could say it’s responsible for human-airport relations (for Star Wars fans). Thank you for traveling through CVG and naming the airport a top one in the world.

Fifth Third ATMA lounge full of comfortable couches and chairs, an interactive play space for children, desk space, a hydration station, and private booths for phone calls are some of the features at Fifth Third’s new location in Concourse B at CVG Airport. You don’t have to be a bank customer to utilize the space that is conveniently located outside of the food court, but if you are interested in banking on the go, Fifth Third offers all the services you need including an ATM and currency exchange. Fifth Third lounge“This modern and versatile space is a great amenity for leisure and business travelers,” said Candace McGraw, chief executive officer, CVG. “Fifth Third’s new location in Concourse B is yet another improvement to elevate the travel experience at CVG, and we’re grateful for their partnership.”Private phoneboothInteractive play area for childrenIt is important to Fifth Third and CVG to highlight the community. Two Cincinnati area artists, Scott Filipiak and Jeffrey Samuel Jr., have pieces on display. One illustrates currency exchange from the U.S. dollar to the British pound. The other depicts Black female leaders from the Cincinnati area: Marian Spencer, the first African American female mayor of Cincinnati, and Miriam Nagel, the first female officer of Fifth Third Bank, who had her student pilot’s license during World War II.Scott Filipiak’s “Dollars to Euros”Jeffery Samuel’s “The ‘Tail’ of the M’s: A Tribute to Pioneering Women"Whenever you next fly in or out of Concourse B, be sure to stop by Fifth Third’s new financial center to check out these amenities and the future of banking on the go.

Hi there, Eiffel Tower!All eyes will be on Paris this summer as the [2024 Summer Olympics](https://olympics.com/en/olympic-games/paris-2024) make their way to The City of Light.If you’re planning a trip to cheer on swimmers in the Seine River or watch volleyball with a view of the Eiffel Tower, I want to help!Paris is one of the most famous European destinations from CVG and with good reason. It’s easy to get to (with even more flights being added later this year), easy to navigate even if you don’t speak French, and offers a chance to visit some of the most famous spots in the world. The perfect start to a day in Paris.The Eiffel Tower… and much more!Any first-time visit to Paris will probably include visiting the city’s most iconic landmark. At over 1,000 feet high, the real Eiffel Tower is three times bigger than the one at Kings Island. There are also multiple ways to ascend to the viewing platform at the top. If you want to save a few bucks and are physically able to, you can climb the 674 steps from the ground to the “second floor.” The climb to the top takes a little extra time but offers unique views.It makes for a pretty cool experience: fewer people, a chance to pause and enjoy the view on the way up, and the opportunity to appreciate the intricate design of the Tower. You can also take an elevator from the ground to the top. We decided to visit at sunset and enjoyed a daytime and nighttime view.A stunning view from the Eiffel Tower.There are plenty of famous places to check out. Make sure to grab a ticket in advance for The Louvre. Originally a 12th-Century fortress, it is the most visited art museum in the world. And for good reason. It houses some of the most iconic works of art, including the Mona Lisa, Venus De Milo, and The Raft of the Medusa.A perfect activity for a brisk, cloudy morning.We chose the very first time slot and immediately made our way to the Mona Lisa, then the Venus De Milo. This allowed us to view both works before the massive crowds moved in.(Left) All alone with the Mona Lisa. (Right) The façade of The Louvre.Make sure to allow plenty of time to see as much as you can; it’s a huge space with thousands of pieces on display. About five years ago, a massive fire heavily damaged one of the world’s most famous examples of French Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral. Since then, over 1,000 people have worked tirelessly to restore the 860year-old building to its former glory. The building is scheduled to reopen to the public this December, but the exterior can be viewed anytime. The Notre-Dame de Paris (before the fire of 2019)If you have time, try strolling by during the day and again at night to truly appreciate its beauty. Continue walking along the Seine River to appreciate the beauty of Parisian homes and neighborhoods. Stop into a cafe for a bite to eat or a pastry (just don’t eat while using public transportation).A cloudy day along the Seine RiverOther stops on your trip might include the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Moulin Rouge, Musee d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Elysees. I recommend checking out the TripAdvisor top things to visit page here to decide what you’d like to do before arriving. Paris is a perfect destination any time of year.The city makes a great vacation choice for anyone, whether it be a honeymoon, a couples getaway, family trip, an excursion for a solo traveler, or just a last-minute escape. As the seasons change, so do the events and things to see around town. A bustling street in the cityJanuary through early March offer great value. Flights are cheaper, accommodations are plentiful, and tourist attractions have shorter lines. Spring break sees an increase in tourism as families look to visit while their kids are out of school, and the number of visitors continues to increase into summer. July is generally the busiest month for tourists. August is busy, too.Summertime is magicalLonger days and nicer weather attract visitors from around the world. Prices will be a bit higher, and you’ll want to book hotels and attractions well in advance. The Pantheon Dome during Christmas 2019When September rolls around, so do the deals. The crowds thin, and the weather is still nice. Christmas in Paris is beautiful with decorations and markets to visit around town. A Christmas market with Notre Dame in the backgroundParis makes a great “home base” to explore France.Thanks to an excellent public transportation system, including high-speed trains, Paris is a great place to begin or wrap up a trip around France.Hello, Lyon!Take a two-hour train ride south and experience the city of Lyon. We really enjoyed it. It’s a big city but has sort of a smaller town feel than Paris. (Kind of like Cincinnati!) A trip in November was perfect for us; the weather was comfortable, the crowds were small, and we were able to see some remaining fall colors while the Christmas markets were gearing up.A beautiful view along the Rhone River in LyonContinue just another hour south by train, and you’ll experience the magnificent medieval town of Avignon. I can’t say enough about this incredible gem in the Provence region of France. The town looks like a fairytale around every corner, complete with a 14th-century papal palace appropriately named the [Palais des Papes.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palais_des_Papes)Avignon is gorgeousThe city has a beautiful river, excellent cafes and shops, and friendly people. We booked a small group tour of the Provence area, which ended up being a private tour with an excellent guide because it was the low season. The views, history, and tastes of the region are unlike anything else. The Provence region in late fall was perfectAccommodations are easy to come by and are more affordable than larger cities like Paris. Much like any European city, expect smaller, cozier hotel rooms. Bonus: terraces!We’re all about a good terrace!Paris is easy to get to from CVG!I’ve often mentioned my favorite flight from CVG is Delta’s non-stop service to Paris. And it still is! Here’s why.- It’s currently offered three times per week, and beginning May 23, 2024, it will be offered seven days a week.- It leaves at 6:05 pm, which can save you valuable vacation time. Work pretty much a full day, head to the airport, hop on board, and enjoy dinner shortly after takeoff. After dinner, pop on your eye mask and headphones, get some sleep, and wake up around 8:00 am Paris time, ready to greet the city!- You can often find a great deal on this flight during off-peak times or by booking ahead. One-stop flights are offered daily on American, United, Delta, and Air Canada as well.The architecture of The Louvre is beautiful.Planning on traveling to Paris during the Olympic Games?Awesome! It will be an incredible experience in a world-class city. Here are a few things I’d recommend.- Book your flights now. Or better yet, yesterday. If you’re having difficulty finding flights, try flying into London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, or other nearby cities, and book a short flight from there.- Book your accommodations now. (Again, yesterday would have been better.) Paris can get pricey during the summer months. Add in a major event like this, and finding a place can be challenging. Consider looking outside of the main core of the city and in an area with good public transit access to get you into the city. There will also be competition [venues](https://www.paris2024.org/en/competition-venue-concept/) throughout the Paris region—and all of France—so figure out what interests you most and plan accordingly.- Beware of ticket deals that seem too good to be true. Make sure to purchase tickets directly from trusted sources.Keep an eye on the [Jay’s Deals](https://jetwithjay.cvgairport.com/jays-deals/) page for a great deal on your next flight. We love visiting Europe and sharing our adventures at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and X ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial)). I’ll see you in a cafe in Paris this summer!-Jay

If you were one of the 8.7 million passengers who made your way through CVG Airport in 2023, you likely walked or drove (let’s hope you didn’t speed) by one of the airport’s police officers. You could have passed Officer Jeannine Nocero, who is often patrolling the concourses, or perhaps you saw a K-9 officer team supervised by Lieutenant (Lt.) Christy Strucke, or spotted a member of the ramp security escort service supervised by Lt. Emily Ritter. All three women took a break from their busy days protecting the public to discuss their roles at the airport.What inspired you to become an officer at CVG?Officer Nocero: I was interested in getting into law enforcement when I was younger, but I never had the opportunity to bring that interest to fruition. Then in 2019, I was working for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and I met a former female Airport Police Department (APD) officer. I told her how I was thinking of getting into law enforcement, and she took me under her wing. I also have a daughter for whom I want to make sure I am a role model. I want to instill in her that it is never too late to pursue your passion in life and that she can do anything she desires if she has the heart and is willing to put in the work.Photo of Officer Nocero from a 2023 training exercise.What do your typical days look like? What are your main responsibilities? Lt. Ritter: As the Special Operations Section Commander, I’m typically in the office. My more exciting days include department training days on the range, or on the mat (fun fact, I was a certified women’s self-defense instructor), or in the cruiser.Photo of Lt. Ritter conducting a self-defense course.In addition, I recently became certified as an airport security coordinator for CVG, and I was elected president of the Northern Kentucky Police Chiefs Association in January. I am a committee member of the Northern Kentucky Police and Sheriff’s Training Center, a Kentucky Law Enforcement Council certified police training academy, and I am undergoing an airport management certification program.Lt. Strucke: I’ve worked at APD for 14 years. My current rank is Lieutenant, and my role is Patrol Commander. As Patrol Commander, I am responsible for all the patrol officers, as well as the explosive detection K-9 teams. If staffing minimums are not met, I step in and help the patrol officers. In addition, I am an airport security coordinator for CVG.Photo of airport police officers. Lt. Strucke is second from the right.Officer Nocero: I could be on the ramp, in the concourses, or in various places around campus. My main responsibilities are to ensure public safety, enforce laws and regulations, conduct patrols, respond to emergencies, conduct investigations, collaborate with airport security personnel, and provide assistance to travelers.What would you say to a woman who is interested in becoming an officer at CVG?Lt. Strucke: I’d highly encourage them to apply. It’s a tough path, but so satisfying. Many women think you can’t achieve work/life balance in law enforcement, but that isn’t the case. While challenging, I still feel a lot of support from CVG as a female officer and a mother.Lt. Ritter: Women have something special to offer this career field, but for all those wanting to do this job, you must earn the badge. Be someone worth trusting and control what you can: your effort and your attitude. Put in the effort to physically prepare for the stresses of the job, and exceed the established fitness standards.Any stories you’d like to tell? Lt. Ritter: The first time I applied to become a police officer, I failed my fitness test and was removed from the hiring process. I failed the first event: the bench press. I knew law enforcement was my calling and had no plans of giving up. Being at Eastern Kentucky University, I was able to seek out and train with someone familiar with the police academy test protocols. I improved on the bench press and push-ups, so when the test was offered again a few weeks later, I was ready. This experience is why I encourage any woman who expresses interest in law enforcement to begin training early and maintain that drive for fitness throughout their career.Photo of Lt. Strucke talking with another airport police officer.Anything else you’d like to share? Officer Nocero: Successful female role models within the CVG Airport Police Department give us opportunities to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in law enforcement and can help attract more women to pursue careers in this field.If you're interested in learning more about job openings within the Airport Police Department, email hrinfo@cvgairport.com.

Randy Williams in Mauritania (Photo: Randy Williams)One of the questions I’m often asked is, “Where do you want to go next?” Usually, my answer is: “wherever the latest flight deal takes me!” Much like you, I have a travel bucket list—the often far-flung places we want to visit but for whatever reason, just haven’t made it there yet. But what if your travel bucket list became something different? Meet Randy “R-Dub!” Williams. He’s the host of the nationally syndicated [Sunday Night Slow Jams](https://slowjams.com/) program heard on radio stations around the world. If that sounds familiar, it might be because you’ve seen him on Shark Tank. But it’s not just a cool job that makes Randy unique: he has set foot in every single country in the world.Yep.All 193 of them.So, I caught up with Randy to find out how on Earth he pulled this off.Indonesia (Photo: Randy Williams)Jay: What part of the world are you in right now?Randy: At the moment, I'm actually home - which surprises many! I'm lucky enough to live and work in one of the world's most beautiful and temperate cities: San Diego! How lucky am I? As much as I love to travel and explore new places, I'm sincere when I say I enjoy coming home from a trip just as much as leaving for one. Vanuatu (Photo: Randy Williams)When were you first bitten by the travel bug?It didn't happen all at once but was instead a culmination of a few different things that led to me developing a completely unhealthy and ridiculous obsession with travel.I took my first solo trip when I was just 26 years old. My best friend and I planned a trip to Brazil, and after he canceled on me two years in a row, I decided just to go myself. I wasn't getting any younger and decided to just go for it. Boy, was I scared! Would this be like going to Disneyland by yourself? Well, those ten days in Brazil would go down as some of the very best days of my entire life. I found myself in literal tears when I was at the airport in Rio about to board my plane home. How could a country have so much impact on me? How could I have fallen in love with a geographical "place" and have feelings for a country the way I would for a woman? How is that even possible? I'd never felt such emotions about a "location." That first trip was life changing.Randy in Brazil (Photo: Randy Williams)But the very first bite from the travel bug probably started, in a way, when I was a young boy. I grew up in a pretty sheltered, middle-class suburb of Los Angeles. I remember, in fifth grade, "stowing" away with some of my friends who were "bussed-in" from the inner cities. Leaving my quiet and smallish town to spend the night at my friends' house in East L.A. or Highland Park…well, that was just an entirely different world for me. It might have only been 20 miles away from home, but it was a completely different country for all intents and purposes. I was out of my comfort zone, and yes, it was even a little scary for an 11-year-old, but I loved it. It excited me. I loved the thrill of being immersed in something so different. I guess from a young age, I've always felt the need to explore and even go to places I maybe "shouldn't" - I was 12 when I figured out the city's public transportation system, and I was on the move! Today, my most pleasurable trips are to places "regular people" don't go to. I enjoy being the only American, and sometimes, the only tourist, in general, walking around a random neighborhood in a country most of my friends have never heard of.Malawi (Photo: Randy Williams)When did you first set your sights on visiting every country on Earth? What made you set that goal?It wasn't until about ten years ago that I took on the crazy challenge of seeing every country on the planet. I had less than two weeks in Europe and decided to try hitting as many countries as possible during this one trip. I sailed through seven new countries and loved it! The thrill of seeing so many different places and experiencing so many varying cultures in a short amount of time was addicting. I remember thinking, "Wait a minute - I just saw seven countries in less than two weeks...if I just keep repeating this process each time I take a vacation, surely I can see every country in the world!"Of course, it doesn't work that way; those European countries are so easy to see all at once due to their size, proximity to each other, and transportation options. I had no idea how hard it would be to traverse the spread-out and tough-to-travel-to regions like Africa and the Pacific!But it was too late - I'd already made up my mind.A visit to Algeria (Photo: Randy Williams)How long did it take you to visit all of them?I am 46 years old, and I finished earlier this year, so you can say it took 46 years to see every country in the world! But if you want to get specific, my first challenge was to see all of Central and South America by the time I turned 40, and I did, right before the buzzer. It was really the last six years that I stepped on the gas and challenged myself to complete all 193.Across how many trips?There are too many to count, and I really have no clue! But over the last few years, my average trip would last around two weeks, where I'd see anywhere from three to ten-plus countries each trip.Lebanon (Photo: Randy Williams)Now, traveling the world isn’t your full-time job. You’re also in the radio industry. How do you manage to get so much time off to travel?Full disclosure: I'm not married and have no kids, so that opens a ton more time and options out of the gate.As far as the job, I've worked at my company for more than ten years, opening up the sought-after "four weeks" of vacation benefit. Add to that, I've negotiated extra vacation. If you add the 12 company holidays and two personal days, you're looking at about two full months of paid time off. And you better believe I use every single day each year! If it's a day off, chances are I am out of the country.Mongolia (Photo: Randy Williams)How do you plan one of your trips?While I was on a mission to finish all 193 countries, I planned each trip extremely methodically. I get across the ocean using [credit card] points, so my planning usually starts by finding an international flight that works for me: a flight using the least amount of points possible.That first destination is my jump-off point; then I simply look at the map and start hunting for the best and cheapest direct flights into other countries nearby, and finally, my flight home. Trying to see so many countries during a single two-week trip can be a real challenge.Most people go to one place: that means one, round-trip plane ticket.Not me: I pack in as many new nations as possible in a short amount of time. This is fairly easy to do in most of Europe, Latin America and many parts of Asia, but once you hit challenging regions like Africa and the Pacific, all bets are off! The lack of direct flights and lack of flights in and out of some of those places, in general, make traveling to multiple countries quickly next to impossible.I've spent months on end trying to figure out how to navigate through regions using [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) and an Excel sheet. It can be very nerve-wracking yet extremely rewarding when you make it work; then you just have to hope the flights actually happen! I counted one trip that had me on 21 planes in two weeks.Whoa! With so many flights in a short period of time, have you ever had a moment where one leg of the trip just didn’t go as planned?I got stuck in the Central African Republic once because the flight to Nairobi just simply never showed up. My friends wondered why I just didn't "hop a flight to another city" and re-route to my next destination. They didn't realize not all airports are like LAX, O'Hare, and CVG. In Bangui (Central African Republic) there were simply no other flights that day...to anywhere!Making a new friend in Kazakhstan (Photo: Randy Williams)So, I realize it’s probably difficult to just pick one, but can you share one of your favorite experiences while traveling?I mentioned Brazil earlier - probably my favorite. So, let's touch on Bangladesh. This was a little early on in my challenge to see every country in the world. As I met more and more people who were on this same mission (yes, there are others!), I would ask these seasoned travelers what their favorite and least favorite countries were. I remember a handful of these experts telling me Bangladesh was the absolute worst: crowded, dirty, chaotic. Bangladesh kept popping up as these expert globe-trotters' least favorite. For this reason, I was not looking forward to visiting Dhaka whatsoever, booking just one night there."Get me in and outta here, quick," I reasoned. However, to my surprise and shock, after just about 90 minutes on the ground, Bangladesh earned a "Top 10" spot on my "favorite countries list." I was enamored with the nation for so many reasons. I felt such a great vibe and had such a wonderful experience there - in a country I was expecting to really dislike.It just goes to show you that your preconceived ideas about a place can be totally wrong. I've always said the best part about travel is the sweet surprises along the way. You can plan all you want, but a vibe is a vibe, and you can never predict it - good or bad. You will only know once you go.Bhutan (Photo: Randy Williams)How do you save money on flights, hotels, and experiences when you travel?I play the "credit card miles game" like a sport. In fact, the recent restrictions from banks on just how many credit cards they'll give you and how many times you can earn a bonus were probably directly caused by me! Sorry. I'm a definite card "churner." "Churning" is the process of going through many credit cards quickly, to grab each big sign-on bonus before moving to the next. It's saved me hundreds of thousands of dollars in airfare over the last ten years. The key is to make sure you're never carrying a balance and paying interest. Otherwise, you're not winning!I don't save a ton on hotels because I am loyal to one brand - for the points and perks. This limits my choices and doesn't allow me to always pick the best deal. But for me, the benefits, like extra miles/points and perks like late checkouts and upgrades, are really worth it.Randy in Kenya (Photo: Randy Williams)Randy in Argentina (Photo: Randy Williams)What did traveling the world teach you about people?I have grown a lot by traveling. I'm not above admitting that some of the very people and cultures I'd feared in my twenties…I am attached to and adore now. I truly feel that traveling has made me a better person, and I'm happy to say I now have a friend in every country, and that's such a gift.My travels have also allowed me to connect in a special way with people I meet abroad or at home. Telling my Uzbek taxi driver or the Eritrean concierge that I’ve been to their country and telling them the things I loved about their home – it makes their day! Sometimes, they'll gush: "Wow! No one's ever even HEARD of my country, and you traveled there?" It makes them smile.Recently, a Moldovan cashier here in San Diego told me I was the first person she's ever met in America who'd actually been to her country. My travels have allowed me to make such special connections with people I might have normally just made a transaction with and gone about my day.Singapore (Photo: Randy Williams)This is a difficult question, but if you had to pick your three favorite countries, which would you choose and why?This is actually an easy one for me. Brazil gets the award for number one: it's the only country I've actually left everything in the USA for and moved to. I lived there in my early 30s and still have a condo in the northeastern beach town of Recife. The Philippines gets number two because they have the absolute friendliest people. And how lucky was I that my very last country would be one of my favorites?Turkmenistan is one of the least-visited countries in the world, but it is an absolute treasure for so many reasons. I don’t think there is enough room to go on about Turkmenistan, but let’s just say it’s one of the most mysterious, intriguing, unknown, and beautiful countries in the world. I was so happy my final country was so memorable, and it's at the top of my list to return to. I actually have some of the same feelings for Turkmenistan that I had for Brazil - a nagging itch that is telling me that I belong there for more than just a vacation Who knows? Maybe Turkmenistan will be my next home!Brazil (Photo: Randy Williams)What item(s) do you pack on every single trip?I am a staunch believer in never checking bags! [Editor’s note: CVG CEO Candace McGraw fully agrees!]There is something so liberating about jumping off a plane and immediately exiting the airport, leaving behind the mobs waiting for their bags. There’s no worries about lost or damaged bags either.I've got it down to a science: one backpack and a few changes of clothes. Of course, I take my phone and some travel-sized toiletries. But the final thing I can't travel without is sleep medication. Any prescription drug comes with responsibility, and I am aware of the risks, but there is nothing worse than getting your sleep completely turned around overseas and not being able to get back to normal. I once spent an entire week in Italy, sleeping from 8AM until 5PM and unable to sleep at all during "sleeping" hours. It was awful! Never again! What’s the thing that everyone thinks they need when they travel but probably don’t?A checked bag! You know what they say: "Take half the clothes and twice the money!" And whenever I see someone traveling with a pillow from home, I just want to tell them, "You know the hotel has complimentary pillows for you?!"Brunei (Photo: Randy Williams)Ha! So, what’s next? Are there countries you want to go back and spend more time checking out?That's the sweet part - the reward after all the "work." I can take a big breath now and slow down and return to the places I love, to unpack, stay longer, travel deeper. It's what I've been waiting for all this time.The list of places I've really fallen in love with is long, and I'm pretty sure my dance card will be full forever. I'll This past December I headed back to the Philippines for a couple weeks, which was amazing.In March, I will travel to Czechia (‘The Artist Formerly Known as The Czech Republic’) where I will visit long lost relatives for the first time and see the house where my great-grandfather was born. The list goes on and on.Randy in Azerbaijan (Photo: Randy Williams)And I also understand you created your own country?!Well, what do you do when you've seen all 193 countries? You create the 194th!The Republic of Slowjamastan is an 11-acre "micronation" located about 90 minutes south of Palm Springs, California. We have our own border fence and checkpoint, monument, flagpole and flag, passports, currency, police, fire and border vehicles, and the most glorious national anthem you've ever heard.Really, you should treat yourself and go down the rabbit hole that is Slowjamastan. It will not disappoint! Oh, and I'm "The Sultan" of Slowjamastan, let it be known! I know what you're thinking, and yes, my family does think I'm really weird for this one!A postcard from Slowjamistan (Photo: Randy Williams)Can we visit?Absolutely! And if you can't make it out in person, sign up to be a citizen online - it's free, and you'll be in good company. To date, Slowjamastan boasts over 16,000 registered citizens. You can apply at [www.slowjamastan.org](http://www.slowjamastan.org/).Randy as “The Sultan” of Slowjamistan (Photo: Randy Williams)What would you say to people who want to travel internationally but haven’t done it yet?Don't wait 'til tomorrow. Many years ago, I stopped collecting "things" and started amassing "experiences." You only live once, but by traveling the world, I truly feel like I have been blessed with a complete second life! I wish this for everyone. Randy making more friends in Bonaire (Photo: Randy Williams)You can follow Randy on his travel blog, [www.ramblinrandy.com](http://www.ramblinrandy.com/), and on [Instagram](http://instagram.com/rdub). Know someone with a cool travel story? I want to hear all about it at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and X ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial)). Find your own travel adventure for less on my [Jay’s Deals](https://www.cvgairport.com/jet-with-jay/) page.I’ll see you soon on an international flight to somewhere fun! -Jay

Beer, bourbon, and black raspberry chocolate chip ice cream. These Cincy region staples are becoming standouts at CVG through the airport’s partnerships with locally owned Braxton Brewing Company, Cork ‘n Bottle, and Graeter’s Ice Cream. These establishments bring local flavor to passengers from around the world.Braxton Brewing CompanyA large greenery wall and window for up-close plane viewing greet travelers as they walk into Braxton’s taproom in Concourse A, along with a bar, televisions, and rows of tables that allow customers, including families, to enjoy meals before or after flights. This taproom, which opened in spring 2023, is Braxton’s first full-service restaurant.“Food is very important to the overall experience, and our location at CVG is helping us lead the way on what having food at all our locations looks like,” says Braxton co-founder and chief executive officer Jake Rouse.Rouse and his team worked with CVG to establish a food menu that caters to a crowd who is looking for a quick bite to eat, especially during the airport’s busiest time: the mornings.The brewery adapted its existing Taco Fuerte menu to feature breakfast tacos and burritos, breakfast nachos, eggs and tots, and more signature items. “People are really loving the menu, the flexibility, and the quickness. We are getting good feedback on the beer as well,” says Rouse.Braxton has not yet used CVG to test new products, although that is something the company may tap into. For now, Braxton’s business is taking advantage of the airport’s captive audience.“We are opening our brand up to so many more customers and potential customers who could go buy our beer at the thousands of locations that sell it across Cincinnati." Down the way from Braxton is long-established Cincinnati sweet shop, Graeter’s. The family-owned, handcrafted ice cream business has been dishing out delicious treats to locals in the Cincy region since 1870 and has been serving travelers from around the world at CVG since 2013. The company started with a smaller scoop of the airport experience when it opened two kiosks: one in Concourse A and one in B.Passengers proved they were craving Graeter’s flavors while on the go, and the sweet shop worked with CVG to replace both kiosks with an inline store in Concourse A. Graeter’s chief of retail operations, Chip Graeter, says this decision was icing on the cake.“What really cemented us in the airport was when we opened our inline store in 2016. I was very proud and excited to be a part of that store,” says Graeter.The fourth-generation owner and operator of the business says starting the store at CVG was an easy process thanks to their relationship with the airport, contractors, and his highly reliable team. The airport store showcases its most popular items across three product lines: ice cream, candy, and baked goods. The busy mornings at CVG allow Graeter’s to serve delicious donuts and comforting coffees to thousands of travelers who fly out of the airport daily."We have the ability to reach people who would never see our store otherwise. They might have heard about Graeter’s in a publication or book, and they can experience it themselves without leaving the airport,” says Graeter.The chief of retail operations is proud to operate a business that brings joy to all. His family’s treats are a great way to sweeten a flight out of CVG and provide a taste of home to those returning.Another taste of home at CVG, especially for Kentucky travelers, can be found at Cork ‘n Bottle. Hundreds of bourbons, including rare varieties, wines, and spirits can be tasted and/or purchased at two locations: an inline store in Concourse B and a kiosk in Concourse A. Later in 2023, the kiosk in Concourse A will be replaced with a second inline store.“We are constantly looking for different business formats. We have found the CVG relationship to be very strong, and we think it’s because of the breadth of customer exposure that the airport provides,” says Tom Neyer, owner of Cork ‘n Bottle. “Being able to introduce Kentucky’s finest spirits to the global audience is good for Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati region.”Cork ‘n Bottle took a similar flight path to Graeter’s and launched its business at CVG as a kiosk in 2018. After two years of successful business, the beverage shop opened its first inline location at the start of the pandemic. Cork ‘n Bottle persevered through its partnership with the airport.“CVG has been \[a\] transparent and constructive business partner,” says Neyer. “The people involved \[from\] top to bottom have been even-handed, fair minded, and are looking for a win-win.” Neyer says his stores at the airport are perfect for travelers looking to grab a bottle to enjoy once they arrive at their destination, or for travelers who want to relax before their flight and try some of the best locally made beverages. Either way, Cork ‘n Bottle’s locations are sure to lift spirits.CVG is always looking to bring more local businesses and flavors to the airport to provide a unique Cincy experience to the more than 7.8 million passengers it serves annually; this includes food, beverage, and retail store concepts. In mid-August 2023, the airport will be open for new business solicitations in these areas. If you’d like more information on how to start doing business at CVG, please [email procurement@cvgairport.com](mailto:procurement@cvgairport.com).

Brick is a hard-working canine officer and a lovable family dog. He and his human partner, officer Nick Ruffing, do a ‘pawsome’ job at keeping the airport safe and secure.What job does Brick do at CVG?Brick is one of the dogs at the airport that detects narcotics; the other type of dogs at CVG detect explosives. Being a German Shorthaired Pointer, he has a very strong nose and a lot of drive.How long has Brick been at the airport?He and his partner completed their training in November 2019.Tell us about Brick’s background.Brick was born in 2018 in Hungary. Many of the working dogs at CVG are from Europe; they are well traveled!Does he like coming to work?Brick, along with his canine officer friends, get very excited to come to work. They enjoy having jobs to do and keeping their minds active. While Brick and his canine friends are very cute, please remember to keep your paws off; the dogs are hard at work.How did Brick get his name?All CVG’s canine officers were named and received extensive training before they joined the police force.What does he do in his off time?When he’s off duty, Brick enjoys relaxing in his massive and luxurious doghouse and spending time with his family.

Who’s excited to fly? This guy!Five Things First-Time Flyers Need to Know!According to [Forbes Magazine](https://www.forbes.com/sites/lealane/2019/05/02/percentage-of-americans-who-never-traveled-beyond-the-state-where-they-were-born-a-surprise/?sh=d658af528984), 13% of Americans have never been on an airplane. Whether it’s fear, finances, or finding the right vacation spot, if you (or a friend) are part of the one-in-ten people who haven’t been airborne, I want to help!If you want to see the country, other countries, and enjoy new experiences, here are five things every first-time passenger should know.This Boeing 767 is ready to take you on a non-stop flight from CVG to Paris!#1 It’s statistically the safest mode of transportation.I’ve been on hundreds of flights and am still in awe at how we, as humans, figured out how to keep a 200,000 lb. object 30,000 feet in the air at a speed of 500 mph.While it’s truly mind-boggling, here’s a great article from [Travel + Leisure](https://www.travelandleisure.com/airlines-airports/how-airplanes-fly) that breaks down the scientific stuff behind how a plane works.With [32,200,000 flights](https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2023-releases/2023-03-07-01/) worldwide in 2022, one thing remains very clear: commercial air travel is still the absolute safest form of transportation.Put another way, you are statistically safer riding in a plane than driving down I-75.Traveling at CVG is easy.“Accidents are rare in aviation,” said Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association. “Flying is one of the safest activities in which a person can engage.”Download your airline’s app and keep tabs on your flight status, gate changes, and more.#2 Turbulence can be scary, but it’s perfectly normal.Nobody likes turbulence on their flight, and it’s certainly understandable that it can cause anxiety for some people, especially first-time passengers.But what is it? And is it dangerous?One of the simplest definitions of turbulence is described by the Canadian Mental Health Association as “just some sort of change in the air around your plane.”There are a few main causes of bumpy air, including mountains, storms, and jet streams. Pilots communicate with each other and ground control to alert each other to steer clear of potential turbulence. Even when you do hit a few pockets of rough air, your crew is in control of the plane.Think of it as hitting a pothole in the sky.Where will you head next?#3 Know before you go!Some people have no problem booking a trip the night before and leaving in the morning, but even for seasoned travelers, last-minute travel can be stressful. To alleviate pre-trip headaches, here are a few things I do to make things a little less hectic.Create a spreadsheet outlining each day of your trip. I like to make a grid that’s 24 boxes tall with one for each hour of the day. I then put each day of the trip in a new column. I like to include: When we should leave home for the airport What time the plane departs Arrival time Hotel check-in time Activities we might want to do each day Check-out time When we need to head back to the airport Arrival time at homeI sent a friend a copy of the spreadsheet I used, and she modified it for her trip to Italy and Germany from CVG. If you want to go a step further, I also include approximate costs at the bottom of each day and then automatically add them up for a total trip cost. It helps when booking future trips. You can also use a free Google Doc and make the spreadsheet shareable with everyone on your trip. When packing, it’s helpful to make a list of items in your phone or in a notebook as you pack. This will make packing for future trips much easier. Don’t forget critical items like medication and eyeglasses (always place them in your carry-on), passports for international travel, and something to entertain yourself with on the plane.Left: a packing list from my phone for a work trip.\ Right: the family checks out the view while heading to Grand Cayman. I’ve mentioned before how much I use Google Maps while traveling. It’s great for airports, too. Many airports have detailed maps showing where gates, restaurants, shopping, restrooms, water refill stations and other amenities are located. [CVG’s interactive map on the website is really useful].When connecting at a busy airport like Atlanta, the Google Map of the concourse is very helpful. Make sure to arrive early for your flight, especially during busy travel times (holiday weekends, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.). Even though CVG has some of the shortest security lines of any airport I’ve traveled through, it’s still a great idea to arrive two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international trip. Wear comfortable, layered clothing with shoes that are easy to remove when you go through security. Leave belts, large earrings, and other metal objects in your suitcase if you can. As the temperature in the plane can fluctuate, I always like to have a hoodie or zip-up to stay cozy during the flight.Quick tip: Whether using the CVG ValuPark or CVG Terminal Garage, always snap a photo of your parking section or row. It makes it easy to find your car when you return.#4 There are great resources for those who might need additional help when flying.I was chatting with a friend who uses a wheelchair, and he shared that travel for those who require accommodations can sometimes be extra stressful.There are comfortable restrooms for individuals with disabilities located throughout CVG, along with family restrooms near Gates A11, B11, and B13. There is also an adult changing table in the family restroom at gate B13.If you need to gate-check a wheelchair or other mobility device, speak with the airline at check-in or before your trip. They’ll be happy to answer any questions about the process.For those with hidden disabilities, CVG has worked with the [Hidden Disabilities Sunflower](https://hdsunflower.com/) organization to utilize the [Sunflower Lanyard] program. If you or someone you’re traveling with has a hidden disability, just stop by the information booth at baggage claim while you’re at the airport and grab a Sunflower Lanyard. This will let airport staff and security know that you may need some extra help or a little more time. You can also request a lanyard ahead of your trip by calling 859-767-3230 or emailing [info@cvgairport.com](mailto:info@cvgairport.com).Going through the security checkpoint at an airport for the first time can be intimidating. If you have a question about TSA or the security screening process, you can reach out to the TSA Cares line at 855-787-2227 about 72 hours ahead of your trip. They can help answer questions about any special circumstances you might have and let you know what items you can and can’t bring on a plane. You can also check out [this handy guide](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all), which details all kinds of items you might be bringing and breaks down if they belong in your carry-on or checked bag.My wife and son appreciate the Mamava pumping rooms at CVG.#5 Headphones are your friend!Among my must-pack items for every trip are my earbuds. Not only do they let me listen to music and enjoy shows and movies on longer flights with seatback TVs, but they also help me relax and stay calm.Yep. The guy who writes a travel blog sometimes has anxiety while traveling.Whether it’s a lack of sleep, a tight connection, or when I’m running late, I’ve experienced anxiety attacks while traveling. One tool I’ve found to help is to have a calming music playlist or simply some ambient sounds that I can use to drown out the noise around me, close my eyes, and get back to a better state.Everyone in our family has their own set of headphones.Pack your favorite pair on your next trip, and keep in mind that most seatback TVs do not have Bluetooth, so make sure to bring a pair of wired headphones. I also like to use a lighting-to-⅛” adapter so I can use the same wired headphones with my iPhone.As a bonus: while on the plane, putting headphones on with an eye mask can work as a polite signal to an overly chatty seatmate that you’ve enjoyed the conversation but you’d like to get some rest.I’m always on the lookout for a good flight deal.I’d love to share your favorite travel tips! You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial).I’ll see you at the gate (early, of course)!-Jay

Hello London!Thanks to [British Airways](https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_us), CVG now has the region’s only nonstop flights to London! And who better to share some of the best things to see, do, and eat than some of our British friends who have decided to make the Cincinnati area their home!British Airways, now welcoming you at CVG!Say hello to our panel of experts from the UK:Sally Barker is an instructional aide at Lakota High School. Sally grew up in a small village called Cherington in Cotswolds, England.\Claudia Glen is a stay-at-home mom who previously worked in the pharmaceutical industry before arriving in the US. Claudia grew up in a small, picturesque village named Stock, in the county of Essex, located about 40 miles north of London.(Left) Sally Barker, (Right) Claudia GlenAlister Bates is a research scientist in respiratory aerodynamics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Alister grew up in Ascot, Berkshire (pronounced Barkshire), in England.\"Ascot’s claim to fame is the Ascot Racecourse horse track. Every year in June, there’s a week of horse races that the late Queen would always come to watch, and it would be worth visiting if someone wants to see British people in top hats and tailcoats."Alister and his wife, Nara, in front of Tower Bridge.What brought you to the Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky area?Sally: I came to the US after meeting my husband in England while he was flying in the U.S. Air Force. He was only there for six weeks then had to go back to the US. We carried on a very long-distance relationship then got married in my beautiful church in England in 1987. I then moved to the US, and we were based at Barksdale AFB. After leaving the Air Force, my husband went into the business world and that’s what brought us to West Chester, Ohio. We have lived here for 27 years and love it!\Claudia: My husband Stephen’s job brought us to Mason 10 years ago.\Alister: I originally came for a one-year research fellowship in Pulmonary Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s, but one year has now stretched into seven, in part because of the great opportunities I had to continue my research at the hospital.The Palace of Westminster contains the House of Commons and the House of Lords. I highly recommend going on a tour. -JayIf someone were planning a trip to visit the UK, what are some must-see things?Sally: You have to visit London! Nothing in the world compares to this city! Buckingham Palace, Horse Guards Parade, Tower of London, The Eye–the list goes on and on!London is incredible any time of the year, but summer is a fan favorite!The Cotswolds, where I grew up, is stunning! The stone cottages, gardens, scenery, small villages, and the area is also home to Highgrove House...(Left) Sally pictured in a garden. (Right) A garden in the Cotswolds village of Bibury is stunning.Cherington is beautiful and has [an annual show](https://www.cheringtonshow.com/post/come-one-come-all-the-unforgettable-cherington-village-show) in July, which I grew up looking forward to and would highly recommend.\I also love [Bourton-on-the-Water](https://bourtoninfo.com/), a stunning town with beautiful scenery and gift shops.Bourton-on-the-Water offers scenic waterway views and leisurely strolls.Other places are Cirencester, Bath, Cheltenham, Gloucester, and if you can make it to the coastline in the southwest, Cornwall is a beautiful area...\Claudia: A day hitting up all the main tourist attractions in London: Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, London Eye, Millennium Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. We did this route walking last summer and loved it. There are lots of places along the river to eat as well.Claudia in front of Buckingham Palace.Check out a British seaside town. We typically visit Southend, as it’s closest to where my family lives and is known for having the longest pier in the world! There are plenty of wonderful beaches all over the UK with many in Devon. I’ve been to Woolacombe, Cornwall, and St. Austell. Brighton is supposed to be very nice with lots of good independent shops and restaurants. Also, Aldeburgh in Suffolk is great.Woolacombe in North Devon is breathtaking.The Harry Potter Studio Tour is amazing for Harry Potter fans. It’s where they filmed the movies and has loads of sets, props, and green screen special effects, plus a huge gift store! The tickets have timed slots, and it gets booked up in advance.Harry Potter Studio TourA few other honorable mentions would be Oxford or Cambridge to experience the history and grandeur of these ancient University towns. Also, Canterbury in Kent (my college town) has Canterbury Cathedral (the most important church in the Church of England) and a beautiful river.Canterbury in Kent welcomes many tourists every year with picture-perfect views around every corner.Alister: For someone interested in the outdoors, the Brecon Beacons in Wales is a beautiful mountain range to hike on. If staying in London, the Royal Albert Hall is an amazingly beautiful building and puts on a classical concert series every day in the late summer. You can get tickets ahead of time, or you can show up the day of a show to get cheap standing tickets.For getting a great view of the city from up high, visit the Monument to the Great Fire of London, which you can go to the top of for only a few pounds.Royal Albert Hall features a massive pipe organ.Whenever I visit a new destination, I love trying new dishes. What would you recommend?Sally: My favorite was always a Ploughman’s Lunch! It’s delicious local cheeses, crackers, and pickles.A Ploughman’s Lunch looks amazing!Claudia: You can’t beat most Indian restaurants. I love two restaurant chains: Wagamama, a Japanese canteen chain that features mostly curry and ramen, and Nando’s, which serves Portuguese Chicken. Also, fish and chips are a great comfort food.Claudia shares a classic English meal.I love going for afternoon tea. This one is the Alice in Wonderland-themed tea at the Sanderson Hotel in London. I can also recommend the afternoon tea at the Cafe Royal and The Berkeley Hotel.A sampling of Claudia’s Afternoon Tea Experiences.Alister: If in London, absolutely visit one of the Indian restaurants near Brick Lane. Also, everyone knows about fish and chips, but make sure you order curry sauce for the chips.Got any travel tips you’d offer someone who is visiting the UK for the first time?Sally: Driving can be tough due to being on the other side of the road. Also, once you get into the country, the roads are very narrow. There is a lot of public transportation to the larger cities, but a car is needed if you want to explore the beauty of the countryside.Driving on the left in a right-hand drive car can prove challenging at first.Claudia: Check with your cell phone and credit card providers to ensure that they will work in the UK. Take an international travel plug and use public transport. It’s generally cheap and efficient.Don’t forget to pack your travel power adapter plug!Alister: Most of the things someone would want to see, particularly in a city, can be visited using public transport; you’re unlikely to need a rental car for nearly everything. Also, for someone visiting London who wants to experience the passion of English football (soccer), English Premier League tickets can be hard to get, so I’d recommend going to see one of the teams in lower leagues (leagues like Championship, League 1, League 2), several of which have stadiums relatively close to the center of London.Emirates Stadium in London is the home of the Arsenal.Have you flown with British Airways? What’s the experience like?Sally: I don’t think I’ve ever flown British Airways, but I will now!\Claudia: Yes, I have flown with British Airways many times. I love it. The staff are always so welcoming and hearing their British accents makes me feel at home. The amenities and food are good. I especially like their chicken curry.\Alister: I haven’t had the opportunity yet but will definitely be using it in the future to visit family in England.British Airways’ friendly crew are ready to meet you!Thank you to our entire panel for the insight. I can’t wait to get back to London and am even more excited to skip the connecting flight on this trip and fly direct!Have a great spot in the UK I should visit? I’d love to hear all about it. You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial).Let’s hop on a nonstop flight and have tea in London soon!- Jay

Sunset in beautiful Gdansk, Poland.Does it feel like everyone you know wants to plan a dream vacation to Europe? You’re not dreaming. According to KAYAK, people really want to grab a croissant in Paris or hear Big Ben ring out now more than ever. Searches for European flights by Americans are up 77% from this time last year. My wife and I have stayed in over 20 cities in Europe and have loved each and every trip.We feel blessed to have visited so many places in Europe and can’t wait to see more.I thought it might be helpful to answer some of the questions that we’re asked about most often when it comes to visiting Europe.I could spend all summer in the Gothenburg, Sweden archipelago.What keeps us coming back?1. The unique culture of each city and country. Although it’s roughly the size of the United States, there are about 50 countries and 24 official languages spread across the EU. You can hop on a train, and in just a few hours, you’ll have a completely new landscape, language, and culture. The [Schengen Area](https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/) makes it easy to move between 27 different countries without border crossings or checkpoints.2. The people. We have met so many incredible people in our travels. From tour guides to taxi drivers to t-shirt vendors, we love meeting new friends on our travels and discovering more about their daily lives.This sign in the Copenhagen airport sent you to either catacombs… or cotton candy.3. The history. Some of the most memorable meals we’ve ever enjoyed were in Barcelona, London, Bratislava, and Gdansk. There is so much we’ve learned about a country just from the food. From pierogies to paella, tapas to tiramisu… we always seek out an authentic meal wherever we end up.4. The food. Some of the most memorable meals we’ve ever enjoyed were in Barcelona, London, Bratislava, and Gdansk. There is so much we’ve learned about a country just from the food. From pierogies to paella, tapas to tiramisu… we always seek out an authentic meal wherever we end up.How about a pierogi sampler with microgreens in Poland?What’s the best way to get there?There are so many ways to get from CVG to your favorite European destination.- CVG offers two nonstop flight options: - [Delta](https://www.delta.com/) currently offers nonstop service to Paris. - [British Airways](https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_us) nonstop service to London begins June 5.However, with just one stop, there are hundreds of cities you can visit from CVG:- [Air Canada](https://aircanada.com/) stops in Toronto on your way to a dozen European destinations.- [United](https://www.united.com/), [Delta](https://www.delta.com/), and [American](https://www.aa.com/homePage.do) offer one-stop service to hundreds of cities via connections at airports like New York-JFK, Newark, Charlotte, Atlanta, or Chicago.- [British Airways](https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_us) can be your one-stop connection to London and beyond. Every major European city (and many smaller destinations) are just a short connection through Heathrow.History everywhere!Where should I go for my first trip to Europe?That’s a pretty big map with a lot of choices, right? Here are four ways to book a trip based on your personal preference:1. You have specific dates and want to see a specific country or countries.2. You want to see a specific country but can go whenever it costs the least.3. You have specific dates but are open to going wherever the fares are lowest.4. You are open to wherever the lowest fare takes you.I’d recommend hopping on [TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/) and clicking on “Things to Do” in each destination you might be interested in. It’ll help you get an idea of not only what to do but the best time of the year for that activity.A sunny day at a castle in Lithuania.How long should I go, and how many countries should I see on a trip?There’s no right or wrong answer. For a first trip, I generally recommend one or two destinations and about seven to 10 days. That’ll give you time to adjust to the time difference and recover from any jet lag. You may also consider utilizing one of the many train services that stretch across Europe, especially the high-speed rail lines. It can be a great way to add more cities to your trip.What a view! Riga, LatviaSo, I need a passport, right? How do I get one?Absolutely. Everyone, including your kids, needs a passport to visit Europe. There are three ways to obtain a passport:1. Routine processing: You apply, get your photo taken, send in the application, and wait.2. Expedited processing: All of the above, except you’ll get faster service.3. In-person at an agency office: If you want to travel within the next nine weeks, you’ll need to visit a passport agency office.More details can be found [here](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html).Didn’t think that all the way through. (Got very wet.) Barcelona, SpainThe State Department updates the estimated processing time for passports on [this website](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html).The current wait time as of May 1, 2023 is 10-13 weeks for routine processing and 7-9 weeks for the expedited option. For an expedited passport at an agency office, you must have international travel within 14 days.If you already have a passport, make sure it’s valid for at least six months after your trip. Check the expiration date carefully for each member of your family. Adult passports are generally valid for 10 years. However, children’s passports (under the age of 16) are only good for five years.We stumbled across a traditional dance competition and loved every minute.What’s your favorite country?It’s impossible to pick just one. We’ve loved something about every single place we’ve visited!So go on, book that next adventure! Keep an eye on my [Jay’s Deals] page for great international deals I’ve hand-picked for you.Always try the pink soup!Have a favorite Florida destination you’d like to share? Tell me all about it at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial).I can’t wait to see you on a flight to London very soon!-Jay

Whether you’re flying with family for fun, booking it out of town for business, or sightseeing cities solo, CVG has done our research and we have answers on how early in advance you should book your flight. Here is a hint, the timeframe may have changed from what you have done in previous years.Flying within the United States?CVG can get you where you want to go in any direction within the United States with more than 50 nonstop flight destinations to choose from. Click here to view the list. CVG recommends you book your flight 90 days in advance, about three months, to get the best chance of getting a good deal.Flying outside the United States?CVG has nonstop flights to the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico, Paris, and starting in June, you can fly to London with the airport’s new airline, British Airways. If you want to book a trip outside of the country, it’s best to book at least three to five months in advance.What days of the week will get you the best deal on flights?Generally, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are considered off peak days and carry the lowest fares as long as you’re staying over a weekend, although these prices typically only vary minimally. Don’t forget to arrive earlyExperts are predicting summer 2023 to be the busiest travel season in over a decade. To give yourself plenty of time, arrive at CVG two hours in advance for domestic flights, and at least three hours in advance for international flights.Ready to start booking? [Click here] to view fare deals of out of CVG.

Peaceful paradise awaits in Florida.Spring break has been on school calendars for months, and many parents and college students have been planning their trips for just as long. So, if you’re traveling this spring, you might find that available hotel rooms are in short supply or that the flight you’ve had your eye on has filled up.Don’t worry, that Florida escape is still possible!Time by the pool is always time well spent!Be flexible in your destinationIf you have your heart set on a specific spot and don’t have reservations already, you might have to shell out some serious cash to make that vacation dream come true. However, if you’re open to trying out a new city, you can put the power of [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) to work to save you time, money, and stress.Here’s how:1. Visit [google.com/flights](http://www.google.com/flights)2. Choose CVG as your starting “where from” airport3. Type “Florida” as your “where to” airport4. Enter your desired travel dates5. Press the Search buttonIt’s easy to find new places to fly!Google Flights will display every destination in Florida you can travel to from CVG using nearly every airline. It will also show you the lowest cost flight for each city and nearby airport options (i.e. flying into Ft. Lauderdale / Hollywood airport to get to Miami). If you want to check flights on [Southwest](https://www.southwest.com/), visit their site directly, as their routes are included but do not display the price.Using this method, you might find a new Florida destination you hadn’t previously considered!To learn more about attractions, restaurants, and hotels available, hop onto [TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/) and type in the name of the city.Orlando offers more than theme parks (although those are pretty great). Check out Rock Springs Run just north of the city.Adjust your departure and return datesSometimes changing your itinerary by as little as 12 hours can significantly change the price of your flight. Using the same method mentioned above, try leaving a day earlier or a day later. Do the same for your return flight as well.A few minutes of having multiple browser windows open on your computer can work wonders!Now that’s a room with a view!Consider using Airbnb, VRBO, or other short-term rentals instead of a hotelWe’ve stayed in a half-dozen Airbnbs and VRBOs across the country. From a secluded retreat with a waterfall to a stream view condo in the mountains, each has been a uniquely fabulous experience. Plus, you get to meet some cool people along the way who serve as hosts!Here are a few tips to help book the right place for your family trip:- Use the “show total price” option One of the things that used to frustrate many people about Airbnb is that it would display a cheap nightly rate and then, upon checkout, tack on multiple fees and significantly increase the cost-per-night. However, Airbnb recently updated its app and website to show the total price (before required taxes) to make it easy to compare listings.- Find the right amenities for your family We really appreciate having the comforts of home while traveling, especially with a small child. Being able to prepare a few meals in a full kitchen, having a washer and dryer in the unit, and having multiple bedrooms so everyone has a little privacy are just a few advantages over a hotel. Use the filter option on VRBO or Airbnb to find amenities like free wifi, pool, beachfront, crib, or even electric vehicle charging.We love being able to prepare meals, especially breakfast, while on vacation.Check The ReviewsDon’t just look at the rating itself; examine how many reviews the listing has. If a place has a 4.8, 4.9, or even a 5.0 with 50+ reviews, it’s likely to be a pretty good choice. Airbnb and VRBO reviews can only be left by people who actually stayed at a property, so they tend to be pretty accurate. We aim to book properties that are as close to a 5.0 as possible.No one wants to run errands on vacation, right?Save time by using grocery delivery or pick-up at your destinationYou know the supermarket at home like the back of your hand and can get in and out in 10 minutes. But when you’re on vacation, it can sometimes take hours zig-zagging the grocery store to find everything your family wants.To spend more time at the beach and less time searching for the yogurt aisle, consider using a grocery delivery or curbside pickup service. Services like [Instacart](https://www.instacart.com/) and [Shipt](https://www.shipt.com/) will, for a fee plus tip, deliver to your Airbnb or hotel. (Check with the front desk to see how they handle deliveries; some will allow drivers to come to your room, while others will ask you to meet the driver at the front desk.)Florida grocery stores like [Winn-Dixie](https://www.winndixie.com/shoponline), [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/cp/fulfillment-options/1987240), and [Publix](https://www.publix.com/) offer both delivery (verify with your hotel if they accept grocery deliveries) and curbside pickup options.Europe? Nope. St. Augustine, Florida!Jay’s Top Five Florida Destinations1. Orlando It’s one of the nation’s top family destinations for a reason. There’s literally something for everyone, and with multiple nonstop flight options from CVG, you can get there for less!2. Florida Keys There’s nothing quite like the Florida Keys, and each one offers a different vibe. Rent a car and drive the incredible bridges all the way to the southernmost point of the continental U.S.3. St. Augustine St. Augustine is one of the oldest settlements in the U.S. and maintains that charm with cobblestone streets and a lot of history. Plus, it also offers stunning beaches!Enjoy cycling along Hobie Island Beach Park in Key Biscayne, Miami Beach4. Miami There’s a reason Will Smith wrote an entire song about this place. There’s delicious food, shopping, sporting events, and of course beautiful beaches.5. Fort Myers Beach / Sanibel Island This would normally be my #1 spot. However, the entire area is still recovering and rebuilding after Hurricane Ian destroyed many homes and businesses. Give it time, and I know things will be even better than before!Turquoise waters welcome you to Marathon, FL in the Florida KeysHave a favorite Florida destination you’d like to share? Tell me all about it at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial).I’ll see you in flip-flops in Ft. Lauderdale!-Jay

It was Thanksgiving Eve 2017, and while our friends were out at the bars, we hopped on a flight from CVG to Paris and onward to London. We flew home that Monday and can honestly say we packed so much into that trip!But fast forward five years, and the four days we spent exploring… can now easily turn into five!That’s because starting June 5, 2023, [British Airways](https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_us) is offering non-stop flights to London from CVG. So that extra time waiting in terminals for connections can now be spent enjoying the food, culture, and sights of England.This new service is the only direct flight to the UK in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana!How cool is that?London Bridge is definitely worth a visit at night!So, get ready to add another stamp to your passport! (And if you need to get or renew yours, here’s the link with all the details.) Here’s why you should start planning that trip right now:It’s really not that far away\1. The departure time is awesome for the new British Airways flight. It leaves CVG at 9:30 pm, which means you can work a full day (and conserve that precious vacation time), head to the airport, grab an early dinner and hop on board. Once you hit cruising altitude, surprise, more food! Then pop your eye mask on or watch a movie, and about 7 hours later, you’re waking up in England and stepping foot inside London Heathrow at 10:15 am local time. (That’s less time than it takes to get to Hawaii. And it’s only one flight!)I really like the departure time for the flight home as well. No early wakeup calls for a 6 am departure. Enjoy a full English breakfast, take a late morning stroll, and then make your way to the airport for a 4:05 pm departure. With the time change, you’ll arrive back at 7:45 pm Cincinnati time.Hear me out… beans with breakfast are amazing!2. There’s way more than just fancy tea and cakes\Yes, you should, at least once in your life, do the fancy tea thing at a spot like [Harrods Tea Rooms](https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/restaurants/the-harrods-tea-rooms). Or, if you’re a fan of Bridgerton, check out afternoon tea at [Theatre Royal Drury Lane](https://thelane.co.uk/eat-and-drink-venues/grand-saloon-afternoon-tea).There are so many [attractions](https://www.guidelondon.org.uk/blog/major-london-sites/10-reasons-to-visit-london/) in London alone. A few of my faves:The Tower of London tour is very interactive.The Tower of London\The architecture is incredible and the history amazing (some of it almost unbelievable!) [Take a tour](https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/#gs.kid5tw) with one of the world-famous Beefeaters and visit the remarkable Crown Jewels along the way. You’ll also enjoy a beautiful view of the River Thames.Free is for me!The British Museum\There are so many outstanding pieces to see in this museum. Some people will tell you to allow two or more days to truly see everything. The best part? It’s entirely free. [Book a reserved spot](https://www.britishmuseum.org/) ahead of time though, especially during busy seasons.The Abbey at dusk is gorgeous.Westminster Abbey\So many historic things have happened in [this building](https://www.westminster-abbey.org/), and we found the guided tour a great way to learn a lot in just a short period of time. Be prepared to be amazed!The Houses of Parliament\You’ve probably seen news clips of a lot of people crammed into a small room, sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, engaged in a fiery debate. You can actually [visit that room](https://www.parliament.uk/visiting/) and a bunch of other really interesting spots, including Westminster Hall, which is nearly 950 years old.Left: A corridor inside the Houses of Parliament, Right: A view from inside the Tower of London.The London Eye\Who doesn’t love a Ferris wheel? Especially when it’s the world’s tallest cantilevered Ferris wheel that provides one of the most spectacular views of London and the surrounding areas! [Book early](https://www.londoneye.com/) to reserve your preferred day and time.Fun facts along the way. (Believe it or not, this is true!)Covent Garden\If shopping’s your thing, [this is the spot!](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186338-d189047-Reviews-Covent_Garden-London_England.html) Plus, there are awesome pubs and restaurants. We really enjoyed the talented street performers. If you’re visiting around Christmas, be sure to make this a stop, as the whole area is decorated beautifully.Left: Big (Lego) Ben, Right: A dessert crepe at a cafe in Covent Garden.3. There are accommodations for every taste and budget\London is a major city, and like most major cities… it can be a little pricey at times. However, there are ways to save on your hotel.Consider visiting during off-peak times – generally September through November and January through March. There are fewer people, hotels are cheaper, and it’s easier to get a table at a restaurant without a wait.For example: the four-star hotel we stayed at can cost as much as $495 per night during the peak June 2023 travel season. (I have never, and would never in my life, pay that much for a hotel room!)However, that exact same room is just $204 per night in February 2023. If you’re looking to save even more, make sure to look for promo codes for sites like [Expedia](https://www.expedia.com/), [Priceline](https://www.priceline.com/), [Hotels.com](https://www.hotels.com/), [Hotwire](https://www.hotwire.com/), [Travelocity](https://www.travelocity.com/), [Orbitz](https://www.orbitz.com/), etc. Sign up for free accounts with each and log into their apps when you search for hotels. Sometimes the price can be even lower than their website. Plus, sites like Orbitz offer “Orbucks,” which give you a percentage of your booking back to use toward future stays.Value-priced accommodations are available but often with reduced amenities or are located farther from the city center. For shorter trips, consider staying in a more central location close to the subway.Speaking of…Trying not to look like tourists (the neck pillow kind of gives it away… as does taking a photo!)4. It’s easy to get around\The London Underground system, or Tube, is clean, efficient, and can get you everywhere. We also used it to get from the airport to our hotel with ease!For many people not used to utilizing mass transit, it can be a bit daunting at first to try to figure out how to get where you need to go and [not look too out of place](https://freetoursbyfoot.com/how-to-use-the-london-underground/).Buy a prepaid subway card ([OysterCard](https://oyster.tfl.gov.uk/oyster/entry.do)) when you arrive or opt for the “[Visitor](https://tfl.gov.uk/travel-information/visiting-london/visitor-oyster-card)” version, which can be ordered and mailed to you prior to your trip. If you’re staying for at least a week or so, consider the seven-day [TravelCard](https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/how-to-pay-and-where-to-buy-tickets-and-oyster/travelcards-and-group-tickets).Use Google Maps and click on the train icon. We found it very useful to help walk us to the correct train station, get on the right train, and know exactly where to get off at. You’ll also find Google Maps very helpful as you’re walking around the city. To save on cellular data, you can highlight a box around the city and select “download maps” while you’re on Wi-Fi.And if you really get lost, just ask someone! My cell phone ran out of battery while we were in an unfamiliar part of the city, and we had no idea how to get to the correct train station. So, we just politely stopped a group of folks who not only pointed us to where we needed to go but walked with us to the station. We had a wonderful chat along the way!You can also use cabs and services like [Uber](https://www.uber.com/) as well, but they’ll likely cost you more.Fish and Chips are a must… but we also enjoyed other dishes as well!So go on! Book that trip and visit one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the world!Want to save time AND money on your next adventure? Visit the [Jay’s Deals] page for the latest flight deals from CVG!Have a favorite spot in the UK everyone should visit on their next trip? Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), or [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial), and I’ll share them!I’ll see you on an afternoon stroll through Hyde Park (the other one).-Jay

At the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), we’re using innovation to advance our capabilities, our brand, and our industry in alignment with our strategic plan, New Heights. Our approach to innovation is to blend emerging talent and advancing technology to elevate and redefine the role of an airport. We believe it’s time to rethink the airport experience.CVG.ai goes beyond theory. We execute methodical proof-of-concept testing. We find the right partners and pilot test with the ultimate goal to generate unique intellectual property (IP). Our 7,500-acre campus serves as a massive living laboratory, allowing the creation of venture-built products that are practical, affordable, and scalable. Our production models include research and development of CVG’s IP, partners’ IP, or shared IP. CVG.ai serves as a co-developer rather than a traditional customer sourcing a readily available product. This collaborative approach is our commitment to real product development, invaluable research in a complex environment, and growth. CVG and its partners are strategists, leaning into the future within aviation and other industry verticals. Our lab is our partners’ showroom floor for millions of potential customers.Why do we focus on innovation?Our focus is to stay ahead of the curve by predicting what forces and demands will change the aviation industry, as well as related businesses. This ensures the airport remains agile, as we lead the community and industry in terms of supporting new companies and new technologies that will bring the jobs of the future, furthering CVG’s $6.8 billion annual economic impact on the Cincinnati region and beyond.Over the last four years, we’ve grown a well-respected and highly regarded innovation ecosystem. This ecosystem consists of working with a variety of constituents, including startups, universities, established companies (BigCos), and regulatory agencies.What are our focus areas for innovation?You can see some of our work and how we categorize it in [this video](https://youtu.be/v5hyUFUay-o).In the video we outline our innovation focus areas including transport, connect, clean and secure. Each area includes specific strategies and tactics.In future posts, we’ll share more details on some of our partnerships and what the impact has been. You can visit [this page] to view a few case studies of our recent work. To share your insights and feedback, please contact us at [innovation@cvgairport.com](mailto:innovation@cvgairport.com).

2022 has been the year of “revenge travel” (aka: going on all those trips to make up for lost time!) and what better way to get back out there than with another new airline at CVG!Say hello to [Breeze Airways](https://www.flybreeze.com/home).Breeze Airways was started in 2018 by the guy who previously co-founded JetBlue. Much like that airline, Breeze is all about the customer experience and making flying, as they put it, “seriously nice.”Hi there, Huntington Beach!They started flying around the country in May 2021, and beginning in February 2023, they will start up two of the four new routes that you can book right now from CVG.Here’s why you should hop onboard and check out one of these cool cities:Broad St. in Charleston is a perfect place for a quiet stroll.Charleston, SCBegins February 8, 2023Cheapest Round Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $82The weather’s always pretty nice , and so are the beaches! We visited a few years ago and even in December, expect an average high of around 61 degrees. The summertime warms up with highs in the 80s and perfect evening weather in the low 70s that makes nighttime strolls even better.Historic homes line the waterfront in Charleston.We loved strolling along the water at [Joe Riley Waterfront Park](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g54171-d144260-Reviews-Joe_Riley_Waterfront_Park-Charleston_South_Carolina.html). Just across the [Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Ravenel_Jr._Bridge) (which is incredible in itself), we enjoyed [Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum](https://www.patriotspoint.org/), where you can tour multiple ships and even a submarine.Climb aboard an aircraft carrier or head inside a submarine at Patriots Point.Our favorite part of visiting Charleston was just wandering the streets. On many blocks, it feels like you’re transported to a different century as you’re surrounded by impressive homes, parks, and architecture.A comfortable afternoon in Sausalito, CA.San Francisco, CABegins February 8, 2023Cheapest Round-Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $276First, let’s talk about convenience. Right now, San Francisco requires a connecting flight somewhere along the way. Having twice-weekly non-stop service is a game-changer, and you can be in California in under five hours.Our friends got married in San Francisco a few years ago, and we decided to spend a couple of extra days exploring the city and surrounding areas.Watching the world-famous cable cars zip around the streets is so cool. We stayed near [Fisherman’s Wharf](https://www.fishermanswharf.org/) and had a blast at the [Musee Mecanique](https://museemecanique.com/), featuring one of the largest collections of antique arcade games!Lots of fun at Musee Mecanique including a vintage fun house mirror and arcade Pong!Taking the boat to [Alcatraz Island](https://www.nps.gov/alca/index.htm) offers a beautiful view of the city and Golden Gate Bridge. Touring Alcatraz prison is quite an experience as well. Returning back to the mainland, the restaurant choices are endless.The view of the city from Alcatraz Island is impressive.Driving the famous [Lombard Street](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lombard_Street_(San_Francisco)), with its switchback roads and steep hill is a must. (We did it twice!) Continue driving over the [Golden Gate Bridge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Gate_Bridge) and explore the [Marin Headlands](https://www.nps.gov/goga/marin-headlands.htm) and Black Sands Beach. Visit the [Nike Missile Site SF-88L](https://www.nps.gov/goga/nike-missile-site.htm) and see Cold War-era missiles on display. Head over to Sausalito for a breathtaking view and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the bay.Even cloudy days are beautiful in the Marin Headlands.And no trip to SF is complete without going to [Alamo Square](https://sfrecpark.org/facilities/facility/details/Alamo-Square-323) and picnicking on the lawn while singing [the theme song to Full House](https://youtu.be/2EL65KLdEHE?feature=shared).Monarch Beach in Dana Point, CA, is located in the southern part of Orange County.Orange County, CABegins March 30, 2023Cheapest Round Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $218Speaking of TV show theme songs: Californiaaaaa… [Here we comeeeeeeeee!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MU1PsRsIWJQ) Non-stop service to Orange County can get you from the airport to the beach in about 15 minutes. It also adds another non-stop way to get to Los Angeles and the rest of Southern California.Downtown Huntington Beach is perfect for an early morning jog or evening walk.We’ve spent a few days over Christmas in Huntington Beach. Walking along the miles of sandy shoreline is an instant stress reliever. We really enjoyed the cool surf shops and unique stores in Downtown Huntington Beach and ventured out onto the pier for a view of the coastline. Visit the [International Surfing Museum](https://www.huntingtonbeachsurfingmuseum.org/) and the [Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve](https://wildlife.ca.gov/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Bolsa-Chica-ER). We also loved a hip sushi spot (for Christmas dinner!) and some of the best tacos we’ve ever had.One of the most pet-friendly towns around!But the top-rated attraction on TripAdvisor? [Huntington Dog Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32513-d578943-Reviews-Huntington_Dog_Beach-Huntington_Beach_California.html). Yepa beach just for dogs (and their people)!Laguna Beach is incredible!Farther south along the coast lies Laguna Beach, while just a little farther north along the coastline, you’ll find Sunset Beach. Continue along the Pacific Coast Highway, hang a left, and you’ll hit Long Beach. Check out the Queen Mary (currently undergoing renovations, but you can view from afar) and the highly-rated [Aquarium of the Pacific](https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/).Providence is one of America’s oldest cities.Providence, RI / Boston, MABegins March 30, 2023Cheapest Round Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $118Rhode Island has been on my bucket list for a while. It’s the tiniest state with only 39 cities covering just 1,212 square miles. How small is that? You could fit nearly four, yes four, Rhode Islands into the Cincy region (the Southwest Ohio / Northern Kentucky / Southeast Indiana metro area is 4,808 square miles).Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island offers plenty of space to explore.Despite its small size, there are some big views to be had along [Mohegan Bluffs](https://www.blockislandinfo.com/island-events/mohegan-bluffs), one of the most famous cliffs in the state. Roll down the windows and take in the salt air along Ocean Drive. If you’re a fan of architecture, check out The Breakers, The Marble House, The Elms, and eight other historic homes in the [Newport Mansions](https://www.newportmansions.org/).That's a big house!Set sail on [Rhode Island Bay Cruises](https://www.visitrhodeisland.com/listing/rhode-island-bay-cruises/8714/), or take the [Rhode Island Fast Ferry](https://www.rhodeislandfastferry.com/) to Martha’s Vineyard. There’s also [Fort Adams State Park](https://fortadams.org/) that is full of history and also offers tremendous views. If you like to shop, check out the quaint [Thames Street](https://www.visitrhodeisland.com/things-to-do/trip-ideas-getaways/village-experiences-shops/thames-street-newport/) and grab a bite to eat as well. Rhode Island is also home to the [International Tennis Hall of Fame](https://www.tennisfame.com/).Newport, RI, is a charming waterfront community.You can also visit Boston, just one hour up the road, or pop over to Connecticut. There’s also a ferry from New London, CT, to Long Island, NY.Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, RI.Sign up with the free Breeze Airways email [newsletter](https://www.flybreeze.com/newsletter-signup) for the latest deals direct from the airline.Get where you want to go for less, find new destinations, and travel inspiration on the [Jay’s Deals] page!Want to share your favorite stuff to do at these destinations? Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), or [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial), and I’ll share them!I love that new airplane smell!-Jay

Here’s what to pack for your holiday trip… and three things to leave at home!The world continues to open back up, and a new survey from PWC says that 47% of Americans are planning to travel this holiday season. (That’s more people than pre-Covid times in 2019!)As you get ready to pack for your trip, there are some things you should bring along, a few things to leave at home, and a couple of things the TSA would REALLY like you to know!What you should definitely pack:A carry-on… and only a carry-on if you can!If you haven’t tried packing light for your trip, give it a shot! I’ve mentioned before that I used to be the guy who used 49.5 lb. of my 50 lb. limit on a checked bag. Since my wife convinced me to pack fewer clothes and “stuff,” I’ve found trips to be more enjoyable and have saved so much time waiting at baggage claim. You’ll also greatly reduce the possibility that during a busy travel surge, your checked luggage gets delayed or lost. Make sure your carry-on fits the dimensions [allowed by your airline](https://travel.usnews.com/features/carry-on-luggage-sizes-size-restrictions-by-airline), and know that international carry-on sizes are generally smaller than domestic flights.Your medicationMake sure to bring any medication, including prescriptions, along for your trip. I take a few prescriptions daily and always try to bring at least seven days more than the actual trip itself in case I need to stay longer or there’s a flight delay on the way home. I do the same with my daily contacts as well. The TSA has a complete guide [here](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/can-you-pack-your-meds-pill-case-and-more-questions-answered).Earbuds (wired and/or wireless)They don’t have to be expensive, but a decent pair of earphones are your best friend on a plane ride. Not only can you enjoy your favorite tunes and connect to your phone, it’s also a polite way to tell that chatty seatmate, “Hey, I’m going to get some rest now.” Higher-end, noise canceling headphones will allow you to drown out nearby conversations and general aircraft sounds. Cheaper headphones will do fine but may become uncomfortable after wearing them for long flights. The Shure earphones I use are [somewhere in the middle](https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/earphones/se215?variant=SE215-CL). I’ve had them for about five years, and they’re small, sound great, and come with a nice little zippered case with a belt clip. Heads up, if you normally have AirPods or other wireless headphones and your plane is equipped with a seatback entertainment system for movies, be sure to bring along wired headphones, as many systems won’t have a Bluetooth connection.Your airline’s app and a flight tracker appI like to know what’s up with my flight, so make sure you download your airline’s app and are signed in with your itinerary. Most airline apps will give you real-time alerts for gate changes, delays, and cancellations. I also think it’s kind of geeky-cool to watch what’s happening in the skies around you. I use free apps like [FlightAware](https://flightaware.com/), [FlightRadar24](https://www.flightradar24.com/), [FlightView](https://www.flightview.com/), and [FlightStats](https://www.flightstats.com/v2/) to keep tabs on departures, arrivals, delays, and on-time histories for flights I’m looking at booking or am traveling on.Your (100% valid) IDIt seems like a no-brainer, right? I was leaving on an important work trip and nearly had an out-of-body experience at the security checkpoint as the TSA agent reviewed my driver’s license and said, “you know this is expired, right?” Thankfully, the TSA’s current policy accepts “expired driver’s licenses or state-issued ID a year after expiration.” However, beginning May 3, 2023, if you’re going to use your driver’s license or another form of ID for any flight in the US, it will need to be REAL ID compliant. Find out more about REAL ID here. Your passport is a safe bet for any trip, but your roadside assistance, credit card, or discount club card won’t fly. Literally. If flying internationally, be sure to check your destination’s passport and visa requirements as some countries won’t allow passports that expire within three or six months of travel.PatienceI know, it’s easier said than done, right? But the holidays are one of the busiest times for a lot of businesses, including airports. Leave earlier than you normally would for your trip to allow time for additional crowds, parking, and check-in. And leave even earlier than that if you’re traveling with little ones!1. Don’t pack huge bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and soapDo you use really good conditioner on your hair? I totally get it. But, that $70 bottle you got from your salon won’t be able to make the trip in your carry-on, and you’ll be super sad to have it confiscated at security. Instead, follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule:Liquids, gels, and aerosols packed in carry-on must be:- 3.4 ounces or less per container- All fit in a 1-quart size clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)- Each passenger gets 1 bag max2. Leave the jewelry, valuables, and irreplaceable stuff at your placeIt’s fun to have nice things but consider leaving them at home. If you are lucky enough to own an expensive wedding ring, consider traveling with a backup ring instead. My wife has done this on a few trips, and it’s a stress saver. Same goes for family heirlooms, rare items, expensive watches, designer garments, etc.3. You don’t need (or want) every key on your keychainI have a daily checklist when I leave the house: wallet, keys, phone. If one of those isn’t there, it feels odd. But when traveling, take only the keys you’ll need on your trip, likely just a house and vehicle key. Put them in a zippered pocket inside a carry-on or in your zippered coat/pants. Nothing is worse than losing your keys.Not sure if you can bring something on board?I wanted to take a fishing rod with me as a carry-on and wasn’t sure if that was allowed. (Fun fact, it is!) If you’re not sure if your deer antlers, Christmas lights, or crochet hook is allowed on board, just use the TSA’s handy [“What Can I Bring?”](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all) site. It’s a very helpful guide to let you know what’s allowed in your carry-on, what you can put in checked luggage, and what should never be brought to an airport.(Fun fact: all those things are allowed.)Get PreCheck and save time.In September 2022, 93% of [TSA PreCheck ](https://www.tsa.gov/precheck)members waited less than five minutes in line at security.Five. Whole. Minutes. That’s it!More than 200 airports across the country, including CVG, participate in PreCheck. It saves you the hassle of removing your shoes, belt, laptop, liquids, and light jackets at the TSA checkpoint. The [cost is $85](https://www.tsa.gov/precheck) for five years (that’s just $17 per year or $1.42 a month), and enrollment is easy. But it might not cost you anything if you have a credit card that offers this benefit free of charge. The TSA maintains a list of participating cards [here](https://www.tsa.gov/precheck/credit-cards-offer).As an added benefit, kids ages 12 and under traveling with a parent or legal guardian can join them in the PreCheck line.Got a specific question? Just ask the TSA. They’re actually pretty great about providing information for travelers. You can reach them from 8am – 6pm ET on:- @AskTSA on Twitter- Facebook Messenger- Apple MessagesBy the way, the TSA’s Instagram is totally worth a follow! You wouldn’t think a serious government agency has a sense of humor, but some of their posts are genuinely hilarious.In addition to a pretty strong meme game, the TSA also provides helpful travel advice and tips throughout the year. With more than a million followers, you might want to give them a follow as well. Find them @TSA on Instagram.Consider Canada!We’ve taken a few trips with Air Canada and love the flight options they offer. Spend more time experiencing the wonderful city of Toronto, or use it as a quick connection to destinations across Canada and even onto Europe.Want to go somewhere new and save money on your next flight? Check out the Jay’s Deals page to find great prices on flights across the country and around the world!Did I forget to pack something into this blog? Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, and let me know!Wishing you a very happy holiday season, wherever you might find yourself celebrating this year!-Jay

Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / December 2022Our Winter Ops team is ready for snow. The team has been practicing winter weather drills since October and will continue to run them until we get our first winter weather event. The drills are practiced every Wednesday morning and night.To start the practice run, the team gathers in a large room and gets briefed on the mock winter weather conditions of the day. The Winter Ops Lead gives the crew ample time to answer any questions before they all head outside and climb into their snow-fighting vehicles. The drills usually run about an hour and a half but the actual shift for a winter weather event can run about 13 hours or more. The operation is very organized, and the Winter Ops team knows the specific roles they have.The Winter Ops Lead drives a pickup truck and goes out of the gate and onto the runway first. That person stays in constant communication with the FAA tower. The Lead is evaluating the conditions of the pavement and gives reports to the team on what to expect.The next in line are the Vammas - CVG’s main snow-fighting piece of equipment. We have nine of these mega-sized machines. The Vammas perform three actions in one: plow, sweep, and blow precipitation. The Vammas crew works like a professional game of follow the leader; whatever the person in the front does, the eight people following will do the same. The group’s goal is to stick together and move like a snake to clear all snow and ice from the runway.Other vitally important pieces of equipment we have on the runway are typically two highspeed blowers, two sanders, one deicer, and one CFME (friction tester). Together, all the people driving the machines push all the snow, slush, and ice off the runway. Without their hard work planes would not be able to land after winter storms. They can typically clear an entire runway in under 20 minutes. That is equivalent to clearing 12 interstate lanes for approximately two miles.The Winter Ops team is fueling performance via operational excellence. The team won an Honorable Mention for the 2021-22 Balchen/Post Awards for their work last winter. The award was announced at the 54th Annual International Aviation Snow Symposium in May 2022. “We had a large ice storm that really impacted our region. At the end of the event the temps dropped well below freezing for several days that made it very difficult to keep surfaces open at CVG. Our team maintained and we never had to close the airfield during that entire weeklong event,” said Matthew Gabbert, Senior Manager, Airfield Maintenance. Gabbert says we have a very good fleet of equipment to make sure CVG stays open during harsh winter weather. He says preparation is key.“We are always training or working on something so that we are not blindsided if a winter event comes our way… (We are) always making sure that we are watching the forecasts, keeping an eye on what is going on around our airport, and making sure that staffing is not forgot about either. Employees are the most important part of Winter Ops. They need to be healthy and prepared before a winter operation is upon us.”We have around 100 crew members on our Winter Ops team. Working on the Winter Ops team is a good way to get started in the aviation industry. If you’d like to join the CVG snow team, job openings are expected to open in fall of 2023.

Why we love Europe in winter (and you probably will too)!You’ve probably seen posts from beautiful Instagrammers blissfully sipping afternoon beverages on a warm June day in an outdoor cafe somewhere in Spain.Looks amazing, right?It is!But…some of our favorite memories of Europe are about six months later when the crowds are smaller, lines are shorter, hotels are half the price, and the flight deals are hot!Here’s why you should pack a jacket, some cozy gloves, and book your flight from CVG right now.Flights cost less… sometimes WAY less!A round-trip flight to Barcelona in June or July averages between $1,037 and $1,137. However, that same flight in November, December, January, February, March, or even late April is about half the price! Round-trip flights to Lisbon, Barcelona, Paris, Rome, and Dublin have been available for $600 or less in that timeframe on the Jay’s Deals page.So… what’s up with that?Mostly cooler temperatures, shorter days, and kids are in school. But just like everywhere else, including Cincinnati, there’s plenty of stuff to see, do, and eat! Since winter means a little less daylight, it’s not a bad idea to plan out your activities for each day using an app like TripAdvisor to ensure you see all the sights.One huge benefit is that you’ll most likely see smaller crowds than in the busy summer tourist season. This makes visiting museums, tours, and attractions a lot more fun because you’ll have more room to enjoy.Experience the magic of Christmas marketsThere are also incredible events in the cooler months. Christmas markets are amazing. These events, often held in town squares, are a perfect way to spend an evening sipping hot cider or spiced wine while you shop and enjoy some music. Markets that had to pause the party during the pandemic are roaring back to life and ready to celebrate!We’ve visited markets in Bratislava, Budapest, Prague, Vienna, Rome, and Barcelona. and each one has a unique flavor. Come hungry as most have a variety of meals and desserts to sample; be sure to leave a little extra room in your luggage to bring home a few gifts.Check the website of the market you’d like to visit for hours of operation and special events, including free concerts and information on vendors.Spend a cozy afternoon in a store, museum, or thrift shopOn any trip, you’re bound to encounter a day or two that’s a little rainy or windy. It’s a great time to take in a museum, some of which are free. Keep an eye on the forecast, and book your ticket for the next day as many people may have the same idea, and tickets could go quickly.Another great rainy-day activity is thrifting. I’ve been able to score some awesome clothing while abroad because there tend to be some unique items that we don’t have in the US. For example, a vintage sportscoat I got from a cool thrift store in Lithuania reminds me of the trip every time I wear it!There are also big brands and unique shops you’ll encounter on your trip, so I like to pack my suitcase about ¾ full to leave room for cool stuff I want to bring home!Your US dollar gets you more right nowFor the first time in 20 years, the US dollar and the euro are at an even exchange rate. If you traveled to Europe 10 years ago, you were getting about .75 euro for every dollar. This means your money will go a little further on your vacation, and you’ll be able to score a good price on pretty much everything from hotel rooms to attraction tickets.Some of our favorite spots in cooler months (and warmer ones too)__The British MuseumLondon, England__Boasting “two million years of history,” this museum has a little bit of everything from around the world. It’s easy to spend more than a day browsing this vast collection. The best part? It’s free! It’s best to claim a free ticket on their [website](https://www.britishmuseum.org/) to ensure you’ll be able to visit on the day and time you’d prefer.__Park GuellBarcelona, Spain__You’ll hear the name Antoni Gaudi a lot during your visit to Barcelona, and one of his most famous creations is Park Guell. One of the most iconic views of the city can be enjoyed here. You can use a book or website like [this](https://www.frommers.com/slideshows/819148-barcelona-walking-tour-gaudi-s-parc-guell) to know what you’re seeing, or do what we do and book a “free” walking tour with a guide. You pay whatever you think the tour was worth as a tip at the end. Well worth it!__Palais des PapesAvignon, France__Just a short train ride from Lyon, France (check [Air Canada](https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home.html) for good flights), the town of Avignon in southern France is charming and full of history and amazing views. This palace is one of the biggest gothic buildings in Europe and is absolutely jaw dropping. We’ve visited in lateNovember, and the fall colors are amazing with very few crowds. Avignon is also a great starting point for [guided tours](http://www.time4provence.com/home) of Provence.What to packYou’ll need a few more layers for this trip. But it doesn’t mean you need to bring three suitcases along for the journey! A few essentials we like to take along:A “squishable” coat (that doubles as a travel pillow)You’ll want to keep warm but not have a coat so bulky it requires its own piece of luggage. My favorite is a lightweight, down filled, “puffy coat” that packs into a small bag and attaches to my backpack. The best part is that when it’s in the included bag, it makes a really nice pillow for planes and train rides and saves me from having to carry one of those giant donut pillows. Make sure it has zippered pockets to help keep your stuff from sliding out. Bonus points if it’s also waterproof.Travel power adapterMost of your electronics, including your phone, will work across Europe. However, you’ll need to bring along an adapter since the wall plug will be different than the ones we use here. [Here’s a handy guide](https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/advice-for-you/when-travelling/travel-adaptors/) for which ones you’ll need depending on the country you’re visiting. I like to use an adapter that’s small with interchangeable plugs, which is helpful if you have multiple countries on your itinerary.Comfortable shoesYou’ll likely be doing more walking than you would in a typical day at home. Forgo the fashionable kicks and opt for comfy shoes that have been worn and broken in well ahead of your trip. If you’re able, bring an extra pair of shoes in case you encounter rain; you’ll avoid having to slip your feet into soaked soles for your next day of adventures.Google Translate appMost people in major tourist cities speak English. There may be some instances where you see an interesting sign or a menu item, and an English translation isn’t available. Make sure you download the free [Google Translate](https://translate.google.com/) app. It’s pretty powerful and can even translate words that appear in pictures in real-time. It provides instant translations across nearly every language, including an offline option to avoid using data.International data/voice phone planSpeaking of phone data, you’ll probably want to use some while you’re on your trip. Be sure to get with your wireless company either online or on the phone before your trip to add on an international phone plan while you’re away. For a daily or monthly additional fee, you’ll have the ability to send and receive photos, texts, and calls just like you would if you were at home.For the best flights at the lowest price, keep an eye on my Deals page. I’m always searching for low fares to my favorite European cities!Don’t forget, [Delta’s](https://www.delta.com/) non-stop flight to Paris from CVG leaves on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It’s a great value, especially when you book in advance, and you can connect to many destinations across Europe through CDG. My favorite part: you can relax and fall asleep on board after leaving Cincinnati and wake up in Paris in the morning!Got a favorite European destination I should check out? I’d love to hear all about it. You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you on a museum bench in Barcelona this winter!-Jay

Three big reasons you should book your next vacation… yesterday!My wife, bosses, and every teacher I’ve ever had have all politely pointed out one personality trait I possess: If a task is not interesting to me at that very moment, I’m definitely going to put it off.Fellow procrastinators unite! In this edition of Jet with Jay, I want to provide the motivation you need to book your next vacation tonight. (Spoiler alert: it’s going to save you a bunch of money too!)This is especially important since the holidays are coming up fast, and flight prices generally rise around heavier travel times like Thanksgiving, Chanukah, Christmas, Boxing Day, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve.So why should you book early?Reason #1: It’s less stressful.For some people (like us), we have no problem being on vacation in a city in Europe and not having hotel reservations booked in the next city we’re going to until the night before.For others, especially those traveling with families or larger groups, it can cause headaches, arguments, and time wasted when everyone can’t agree on the next place to visit.Planning ahead also allows you to potentially get better seats to events, concerts, and shows. You may be able to tour a castle or ride a zip line that is sold out on the day you decided to make last-minute plans. Advance reservations are often required at high-end or very popular restaurants. It also prevents you from sleeping in your car at a grocery store parking lot for the night because every hotel you called when you arrived in town at the last minute was booked up for an off-road rally. (True story.)Pure and simple, planning ahead is usually a stress-saver.Reason #2: It can save you cash… sometimes a lot of cash!We’ve booked plane tickets nine months ahead of a trip and also locked in a last-minute deal the night before. Is there a right or wrong way? Nope!The reason we booked the tickets nine months out was that we found excellent flight deals for both a Thanksgiving and Christmas trip while searching for flights for a late spring trip. While it’s a little hard to get in the holiday spirit in the hot summer we’ve had, booking November and December travel now can sometimes save your family hundreds or even thousands of dollars.If you’re considering visiting a popular holiday tourist spot like New York City or Florida, you should book sooner than later. Those flights can fill up fast and end up costing you more.Pure and simple, planning ahead is usually a stress-saver.Reason #3: You get 24 hours to change your mindA fellow travel enthusiast named Cameron offered a suggestion a decade ago as I was debating if I should book a trip: “when you see a low fare that you know is a great deal, buy it now!”It’s good advice and so true. It’s easy to spend a lot of time figuring out how to save the most money on flights—or debating if the fare might drop later—or if you can get time off work for that vacation.But here’s something many people don’t know. If you change your mind and don’t want to keep that reservation, [Federal law](https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/notice-24hour-reservation) allows you to get a 100% refund as long as you cancel within 24 hours.So how do you find those really great deals?Here are some of the best ways I’ve found low fares.- Some people like to manually check airline websites daily. This is the most basic but can also be the most time consuming method. You may also miss out on hearing about a new deal if you forget to check back often.- Use a booking site that compares multiple airlines on the dates and times you want to travel. Or pick a month or time frame you’d like to travel and find the best price available. [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) is my personal favorite.- Get alerts on your favorite booking site so you know when fares drop. If you have a Google or Gmail account already, [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) has a great fare notification tool.Subscribe to promotional emails from every airline and travel company that departs from CVG. If you find your inbox is getting a bit overwhelmed, create a separate folder in your email box and direct all of the messages to it.- [Alaska Air](https://www.alaskaair.com/) Yes, they fly to Alaska, but their non-stop service to Seattle often goes on sale.- [Air Canada](https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home.html) Not just for trips to Canada, we’ve also scored great deals for European flights as well.- [Allegiant](https://www.allegiantair.com/) It’s the trusty friend who gets you where you need to go without all the frills.- [American](https://www.aa.com/homePage.do) Their emails will give you heads up about non-airline reward partners as well.- [Delta](https://www.delta.com/) Keep an eye out for flight deals and extra benefits when you join their SkyMiles program.- [Frontier](https://www.flyfrontier.com/) They often have some of the best prices and most fun names for their flash sales.- [Southwest](https://www.southwest.com/) Southwest doesn’t appear in Google Flight searches, so it’s a good way to learn about their deals.- [Sun Country](https://www.suncountry.com/) If you need to get to Minneapolis or surrounding states, keep an eye on them.- [United](https://www.united.com/) It’s great for both domestic and international travel. They also codeshare with many airlines. (We’ve booked with United and had a wonderful codeshare flight on Lufthansa.)- [Viva Aerobus](https://www.vivaaerobus.com/en-us/) Viva is offering awesome deals to Mexico with or without a vacation package!- Don’t forget to keep an eye on [Vacation Express](https://www.vacationexpress.com/) and [Apple Vacations](https://www.applevacations.com/) for really good all-inclusive options.By the way, my absolute favorite flight from CVG is back!Non-stop Delta Air Lines service to Paris lets you depart CVG around 6pm, have a nice dinner on-board, watch a movie, have a quick snooze, and wake up in Paris the next morning! It is currently running three times per week with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.How do you find great deals on flights? Share your tips! I’m at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you in flip-flops… in December!-Jay

My wife and I are pretty seasoned travelers. We could probably pack for a trip in our sleep. But when player three entered the game, packing for us plus a ten-month old has become an adventure in itself!So in this installment of Jet with Jay, I’m looking to parents who have survived (and thrived) while on vacation. These high-flying families have helped us put together the stuff that’ll help save your sanity when traveling with kids.I reached out to travel pro Nedra McDaniel, aka Adventure Mom, who has been traveling with her family for nearly two decades.Jay: As a pretty seasoned traveler, I thought I knew everything I needed for a trip and could pack in my sleep. But as a new dad, it feels a bit stressful to make sure I have everything for a trip with our son. Any advice to make packing easier?Nedra: I would make a list of the essentials that you use everyday. What’s “essential” will change and evolve as your child grows.Use a backpack to keep your hands free. Try to group similar items in smaller bags within the backpack to find them quicker. Baby wipes and hand sanitizer are a must for any age. Snacks and special treats, including lollipops, can help as a reward or to help keep them quiet.Don’t forget your child’s favorite soothing/comfort items. Have backups just in case—multiple pacifiers, stuffed animals, etc.Noise-canceling headphones and a device that already has movies, shows, and games downloaded are also helpful. If your toddler is a wanderer, an anti-lost wrist link is essential.What is the one item every parent should take with them on a trip?Flexibility and realistic expectations.Be prepared to have to adapt when traveling with kids. Some situations with travel are out of your control. (Delayed flight, weather disruptions, someone gets sick, etc.) Also be mentally prepared for meltdowns, sibling bickering, and drama if you are traveling with kids. Sometimes parents need a time out more than their kids.Just remember a vacation is with a spouse; a trip is with your kids. You might not get to do or see everything you originally wanted to during your trip if your itinerary is packed without any wiggle room.Each kid is very different in personality and temperament, which can throw a curveball when one kid wants to do one thing and the other one wants to do something else.Ultimately you are in charge of your attitude and your effort. Your kids will pick up how you respond to disappointments so be flexible and have realistic expectations.That’s great advice! When you’re planning a trip, how do you find the best family-friendly things to do on a vacation?I search on social media and read articles about destinations, then I make notes on my phone to keep it all together.I also look to travel writers and local CVB’s (Convention and Visitors Bureau) as a wealth of information.What’s your favorite destination for families?Our favorite place to visit is one we haven’t been to yet because we like to experience new destinations. We enjoy the outdoors but also love to experience different cities.For example, on one of our trips, we flew to Las Vegas during spring break and enjoyed the city for a few days at the beginning and end of the trip. During the week, we visited three National Parks along with several other outdoor attractions.If you don’t want to rent a car, choose cities with a good public transit system from the airport or a hotel with shuttle service.Your favorite place to vacation may change over the years depending on your vacation style and age of your kids.How do you make plane rides hassle-free when flying with kids?Preparation is key. The more prepared you are with a variety of distractions, the easier it is to pivot when something comes up.The more you travel with your child(ren), the more you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t. Self-awareness is also important. People understand that babies cry and that toddlers wiggle, but be mindful of how they can impact the travelers around you.Don’t let your kid continue to kick the seat in front of them if you see it happening. A smile and apology goes a long way, and most people are empathetic and want to help when they see a parent struggling.Regardless of whether or not everything goes as planned or lives up to your expectations, spending time with the people you love and making memories together at any age is priceless.Well said, Nedra. Thanks so much! We’ll be sure to keep an eye on your Instagram and your website for more travel inspiration!Inspired by Nedra’s pro packing tips and thanks to Jet with Jay readers, we’ve compiled a list of 14 items you might want to consider when packing for your next trip.1. Snacks and GumMuch like adults, there’s no greater way to help ensure a smooth (and silent) flight for your kids like a tasty treat. While it’s always fun to try new things, be sure to pick some familiar snacks that are guaranteed hits with your family. Jenny S. and Carrie M. both suggest lollipops as a way to keep everyone smiling. Multiple moms have stressed the importance of having gum to help little ears adjust during takeoff and landing. When offering your child gum, chew a piece as well, and explain to your child why their ears might have a funny feeling and that it’ll go away pretty quickly. Don’t forget to have a napkin or wrapper on hand when the gum-chewing has finished!2. First Aid KitMom-of-two, Deana S., suggested this, and the experts agree. Having a small kit that includes basics like band-aids, alcohol pads, tweezers, ibuprofen, and Tylenol can help soothe unexpected boo-boos and keep a trip on-track.3. Layered Clothes (and a change of clothes)Kimberly T. says a sweatshirt is a must for any plane ride to make sure your little one is comfortable when the air conditioning kicks in. It’s also great to dress them in layers in case they become too warm during the flight. Mom-of-two, Angie H., suggests a change of clothes for your child and you as well to combat any spills that might happen along the way.4. WipesA number of parents, including Andrea F., say you can never have too many wipes. Sanitizing wipes will help disinfect tray tables and arm rests but shouldn’t be used on skin. Baby wipes will likely be in your carry-on if you have a small child but can be great to have on hand for older kids and even adults to help with in-flight messes.5. In-Flight EntertainmentOn some flights, you may have seat-back entertainment, which will likely include shows tailored for children. Don’t forget to bring along headphones with a ⅛” mini adapter. On flights that do not offer in-flight choices, Sari Z. uses age-appropriate activities to keep her daughter occupied. Coloring books, games, mess-free markers, and small toys are great choices. Dad-of-two, Michael A., suggests downloading plenty of cartoons and games onto a tablet.6. Noise-Canceling HeadphonesMultiple parents shout about the benefits of noise-canceling headphones for kids. These special headphones use tiny microphones to listen to the actual noises around you and pump in frequencies to drown out unwanted sound. They can be a great way to calm down fussy flyers and reduce anxiety in both children and adults. Be sure to look for active noise canceling, or “ANC,” when purchasing headphones.7. Power StripWant to make friends in the terminal? Stacy L. suggests bringing along a small power strip that will allow you to share a plug while waiting for your flight at the gate. This can be useful in airports with limited outlets, as well as ensuring that your own battery-powered devices have enough juice for the entire flight. For international travel, be sure to use a voltage converter that allows you to swap different plug types at the wall.8. Sound MachineSleeping in an unfamiliar surrounding like a hotel or Airbnb can sometimes be a challenge for little travelers. Aubree D. suggests packing the sound machine. We use a small, inexpensive, rechargeable one for our baby, and it really helps keep him relaxed when it’s nap time. If you forget to pack yours, use your phone to play soothing sounds or noise from a free app or music streaming service. (Just watch out if you have a free version; nothing interrupts a peaceful rest like a loud advertisement!)9. Consider NOT Packing the Pack and Play!Pack-and-plays, strollers, and wagons are great for vacations. But they’re bulky and yet another thing to haul along. Check with your hotel to see if they provide cribs and pack-and-plays. Some places, including Disney resorts, offer multi-day stroller rentals. There are also rental services like Babies Getaway and BabyQuip that will deliver items to your rental property.10. Anti-Lost Wrist LinkAdventure Mom Nedra says, “if your toddler is a wanderer, an anti-lost wrist link is essential.” This simple device is under $15 and consists of two bracelets—one for you and one for your child—that are connected via a coiled tether. For a more high-tech version, GPS-enabled clothing tags are another way to keep tabs while on vacation in unfamiliar or crowded environments.11. Digital CameraOffer your child a digital treasure hunt and provide a list of items they have to snap a photo of on the trip. Looking through the photos together can be a great activity for the plane ride home. Try using a quality, inexpensive waterproof camera with a strap instead of worrying about your kid using a $1,000 phone. Consider using an online photo printing service when you return to turn some of their photos into a blanket or wall art for their room.12. Baby MonitorHow accustomed have we become to knowing our baby’s every move? We discovered it quickly on one of our first trips with our newborn when we forgot to pack a baby monitor. Whether a simple audio monitor or a compact video monitor, the peace of mind from being able to watch your child while enjoying some quiet time on the patio outside is priceless. Some video monitors also utilize apps that will alert you when your child wakes up.13. Ear Plugs and Goodie Bags for NeighborsNo matter how much you plan and how well-behaved your child normally is, there’s always the possibility that the experience of flying might become a bit overwhelming for them. Crying happens. So to help make friends with the people around you, consider bringing along some small goodie bags for your seat mates with a note explaining this is their first flight. Include earplugs and some candy as a peace offering.14. PatienceDad-of-one, Kevin G., says that patience is the most important thing you can pack, especially for first-time little flyers. Make sure to arrive at the airport earlier than normal to allow plenty of time for bathroom breaks, unexpected meltdowns, and time to get to the gate. To help alleviate the fears of nervous new travelers, explain what’s happening around them. Talk about where the luggage goes after you drop it off at check-in. Ask them questions about what a pilot does, or, for older kids, use it as an opportunity to teach them about how planes work.So you’ve arrived at the airport early, you’ve checked your bags, and you’ve got plenty of time to relax before boarding. Nice work! Here are a few places to explore with your family at CVG while you wait:Check out the kid’s play area in concourse B. It’s conveniently located right next to the food court, so you can grab a bite while the kids work out some of that excess energy before your flight.Have food and drinks delivered by a robot! Really! Order and pay online using the website orderatcvg.com. Then your four-wheeled robot friend will show up in just a bit right to your gate! It’s a great way to get food without having to round up the whole family to head to the food court.Sometimes mom and dad need a moment to relax before a flight. If someone in your party is able to keep an eye on the kids, slide on over to Cork and Bottle for a bourbon tasting. https://www.cvgairport.com/detail/cork-n-bottle/concourse-b-14Older kids and adults will appreciate the colorful work of Cincinnati artist Charley Harper in a print gallery near the food court in concourse B.Got a travel tip you’d like to share? I’d love to hear it! Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you (while balancing a car seat and a carry-on) at the gate!-Jay

I’ve been tracking flight prices from CVG for about a decade, and in that time, I’ve discovered some consistently great places to visit that won’t break the bank.As I put together this list, here’s what I took into consideration.1. How much does it cost to get there?2. Is there cool stuff to do when I get there?3. Can I get there with one stop, or ideally, non-stop?So welcome to Jay’s 2022 Best of the Best Low-Cost Flight Options from CVG!#4 Denver, COAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$114, non-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedWhy I love it:There’s a reason Denver has shown up more than any other city on the Jay’s Deals page…an astonishing 29 times! Prices stay low thanks to competition from six different airlines. It’s a fun trip any time of the year whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or just sipping beverages on a mountain. Ski season tends to see slightly higher prices, but good deals are still available. One of the best times to visit if you aren’t into skiing is in May. The temperature is comfortable, there are fewer crowds, and you can score insanely cheap hotel rooms.One Cool Thing to Do:Horseback Riding in the MountainsI’ve mentioned before that one of my favorite Colorado experiences isn’t skiing or brewery related…it’s riding a horse up the side of a mountain! You won’t gallop; instead, you’ll be treated to abundant wildlife, an abandoned mill, and old cemeteries. I’ve had the chance to ride horses on beaches, farms, and fields, and this experience is unlike any other.#3 PeruAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$426, one-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:American, Delta, UnitedWhy I love it:Exotic food, breathtaking views, and friendly people—what more could you ask for? Anyone who has visited Peru can tell you it’s worth the trip. CVG offers some convenient flight options that help break up the journey into two shorter flights: about 2.5 hours to Miami and then another 5.5 hours to Peru. Spend a few days in Lima and experience the charming neighborhoods and sweeping cliffside views of the ocean. From there, hop on a flight to Cusco and visit the Sacred Valley. You can visit popular bucket-list destination Machu Picchu by hiking a few days or doing what we did and enjoy a scenic train ride.One Cool Thing to Do:[Hike up Huayna Picchu (next to Machu Picchu)](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294318-d548890-Reviews-Huayna_Picchu-Machu_Picchu_Sacred_Valley_Cusco_Region.html)It’s hard to get a five-star TripAdvisor review on anything, let alone when over 4,200 people have reviewed it. (So you know this is worth it!) Huayna Picchu is the larger mountain that sits in the background of the famous photos you see of Machu Picchu. It’s a moderately difficult climb, so you’ll want a good pair of shoes, but the history and views are something I’ll cherish forever. You’ll need to book your ticket early, as daily entry is capped at 400 visitors.#2 New York City, NYAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$132, non-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedWhy I love it:There’s nothing like The Big Apple, and you can take a bite out of it with your choice of airlines and departure times from CVG. Some days this summer, CVG offers 20 non-stop flights! You can also plan a spring or fall trip and avoid the summer and holiday crowds. There is so much to see, do, and eat. With hotel options ranging from budget accommodations outside of Manhattan, four- and five-star Times Square splurges, and unique Airbnb stays, you can find the right place to spend the evening.One Cool Thing to Do:[Rice to Riches](https://www.ricetoriches.com/collections/todays-flavors)When I lived in Manhattan, there was a place I used to take everyone to because a shop like this is so unique, it could only happen in NYC. For the last two decades, Rice to Riches has served up an amazing dessert experience. Think ice cream parlor, but instead of ice cream, they serve up dozens of different kinds of rice pudding! Each serving comes in a futuristic bowl, and the flavors are incredible. (My favorite is the Rocky Road!)#1 OrlandoAverage Round Trip Sale Price (2020 – 2022 on the Jay’s Deals page)$116, non-stop including one carry-on bagWho flies there:Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedWhy I love it:Making over 16 appearances in the past two years on the Jay’s Deals page, Orlando continues to offer consistently low, non-stop airfare from CVG. With six airlines, many offering non-stop flight options, competition for your business is fierce. Orlando is one of America’s most family-friendly destinations, and this flight is also great for first-time flyers at just around two hours. Hotel options are plentiful as well; check out how to save big when booking an Orlando stay.One Cool Thing to Do:[Disney Springs](https://www.disneysprings.com/)This is a must-visit; it’s a terrific way to experience the Disney vibe with $0 admission fee. Eat at one of 65 restaurants, enjoy free live music, and check out over 100 different shops. Parking is easy in the large garage, and there’s plenty of sights to see. Have a beverage at The Boathouse, and enjoy gorgeous views while you watch amphibious cars take a plunge in the lake. Be sure to make reservations for some of the more popular eateries.Do you have a favorite, low-cost destination you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it. Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.-Jay

Three reasons Canada should be your summer vacation destination (and how to pay less to get there!)Depending on which study you read, it’s estimated that around half of Americans have never traveled outside of the U.S. It could be for a number of reasons – fear of not knowing another language, a lack of vacation days, or simply not enough funds (although, keep an eye on my Jay’s Deals page and I’ll show you how to start a European vacation that could be cheaper than a trip to Disney!).Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or still need to get a passport, I want to share a few of my favorite reasons to visit America’s neighbor to the north that, after one visit, will have you coming back again year after year.#1) Toronto is amazing anytime of the year, but summer is perfect!On May 15, Canada’s largest airline and flag carrier, Air Canada, will resume nonstop flights between CVG and Toronto. Flights will operate daily with two flights a day Monday through Saturday and one flight on Sundays. I’ve flown with Air Canada multiple times on this route and always think it’s so cool that you’re in another country in just 90 minutes!Once you land in Toronto, you can use Lyft or Uber just like in the U.S. to get around.Be sure to visit the famous CN Tower which was the tallest structure in the world until 2007 (it’s still the ninth tallest!). Check out some amazing views of the city and Lake Ontario. If you’re feeling brave, you can even hop into a harness and walk around the edge of the Tower in the appropriately-named “Edge Walk.”Spend some time at the St. Lawrence Market, a 150-year-old market with over 200 vendors selling everything from caviar and Portuguese style chicken to exotic honey and natural clothing. I like just wandering around and taking in the sights, sounds, and smells!If the Toronto Blue Jays are in town, take in a baseball game. On my last trip to Toronto, I got to see a game and enjoyed the unique design of the stadium just as much as the game itself. It’s a great rainy-day activity too since the stadium has a giant dome. For a unique hotel stay, book a room at the Marriott City Centre Hotel that has one-of-a-kind rooms inside the stadium that overlook the field!The Hockey Hall of Fame is also a must-visit. I’ve been a couple of times and even if you’re not a massive hockey fan, you’ll appreciate the well-curated exhibits highlighting the history of the sport.Pro Tip: Canada uses the Canadian dollar, and you’ll need to exchange your American currency. Check to see if your credit card company offers a good exchange rate and if they zero out foreign transaction fees. Using a card for purchases can often be the best way to get the best rate and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.#2) Halifax will steal your heart!A few years ago, my wife and I had an opportunity to spend a week visiting friends in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I have to be honest; I didn’t know what to expect and after visiting, the Google search results and tourist website images don’t do it justice! With Air Canada and American Airlines both offering one-stop service, you can be in Halifax in a little over five hours of travel time.For 20 years, Theodore the Tugboat has welcomed visitors to the HarbourBe sure to visit the Halifax Boardwalk. It’s a beautiful stroll along this historic stretch of water. Take in the parks and Halifax Citadel National Historic site on the hill and stop into some of the quaint shops throughout the city. If you’re like me and enjoy a little gaming, there’s a waterfront casino waiting for you.In addition to thousands of acres of wilderness to explore, the Halifax area also has some wonderful day trips, including picturesque Lunenburg and wonderful wineries in Wolfville.Pro Tip: Take one of the whale watching cruises from Lunenburg. You won’t regret it. We saw massive whales surfacing and enjoyed a beautiful sunset cruise. #3) Vancouver is more than just Lululemon and Ryan ReynoldsImagine a city where you can visit the beach and surf in the morning and then hit the slopes on your skis in the afternoon.Really. (Check out this [L.A. Times article](https://www.latimes.com/travel/story/2020-02-14/british-columbia-ski-surf-same-day))Vancouver features incredible natural beauty and remote destinations while also being Canada’s third-largest city with amazing nightlife, shopping, and dining.Even though Vancouver is across the country, getting there is easy with daily one-stop flights from CVG thanks to five different carriers all flying there. Choose from dozens of one-stop flight options on Alaska Airlines, American, Air Canada, Delta, or United. All of that competition is great for me and you because it keeps flight prices low!One of my favorite spots to visit is Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood. Named after a guy called “Gassy Jack,” this trendy neighborhood has some really unique bars, hip shops, and cool souvenir spots.Take a stroll around the Vancouver Seawall where natural beauty and city views collide. We enjoyed it even when we visited in December! Also check out Stanley Park, which features 1,000 acres of beautiful open space.If you’re feeling adventurous, cross the Lions Gate Bridge and head up to Cypress Provincial Park, home to Cypress Mountain and that year-round skiing I mentioned. How high up is it? Let’s just say if you head there outside of summer, it’s impossible to reach without a four-wheel drive vehicle and snow chains (mandatory October 1 – April 30). Here’s what it looked like when we attempted it in a two-door sedan during a visit in December:We can’t wrap up on a photo that cold now, can we?Ah, that’s better. A few other important things to know as we hit the busy summer travel season (June is projected to be especially busy!):1. Make sure to arrive to the airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time.A lot of people ask why airports tell people to get there so early. And it’s a valid question. I’ll admit, I have pushed my luck in the past and barely made it to my gate before they close the door. But the truth is, you’ll need to allow time for checking in bags, getting your boarding pass, allowing time to get through security, and travel time from security to your gate. And most airlines close the boarding door 15 minutes before the departure time. So, add all of that up (plus time to park if someone isn’t dropping you off), and it’s way less stressful to show up a little early! Two hours prior for domestic flights. Three hours for international.2. Save time and carry-on your bag.I’ve stressed this in previous Jet with Jay articles, but it can really save you time and stress if you can reduce the amount of stuff you take with you on your trip and use a carry-on size piece of luggage. By bringing a bag with you through security and getting your boarding pass on your phone or printing it at home, you can avoid some of the lines, especially during peak travel times. You also get to save time at your destination by skipping the wait at baggage claim.3. For trips to Canada and anywhere else outside the U.S., including most cruises, you’ll need a valid passport.For more information on how to get yours, visit this State Department page to get started. It may seem like a complicated process, but it’s not too bad. Be sure to allow plenty of time before you travel abroad to receive your passport. Expediting processing is available for an additional fee. For last-minute and emergency travel abroad, you’ll need to visit a passport office in person.Enjoy your summer travel! I’d love to see your travel pictures and videos! Tag me @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter-Jay

Mindy Kershner / CVG Airport / March 16, 2022Cargo development at CVG has increased exponentially over the last several years as DHL and Amazon have grown their hub presence. At the end of 2021, cargo tonnage was up 18% over 2020 and eclipsed 100% growth over the last five years. While most cargo planes and activity including unloading, sorting and reloading takes place on the south end of the airport campus, there’s another side to the cargo business – general cargo activity on the north end with FedEx.The newest entrant is Silk Way West Airlines, operated in conjunction with Crane Worldwide Logistics, who as of today will operate 80 inbound and 80 outbound flights at CVG in 2022, contributing to around 14,400 tons of cargo. Planes arriving from Asia and Europe will land once a week until the summer months, at which time activity will ramp up to two flights a week.CVG’s strong airfield infrastructure, including four runways and apron area to park cargo planes, as well as its proximity to warehouse distribution facilities, made it appealing for the companies to do business. The airport staff worked closely to make connections to secure ground handling arrangements including personnel and equipment. Trego-Dugan Aviation will be providing ground handling support for Silk Way West at CVG.“This has been a great collaboration, and we’ve been happy to assist with coordination, including connecting these companies to local partners,” said Candace McGraw, chief executive officer, CVG Airport. “As we build out this service for additional cargo carriers, we look forward to what’s to come.”

Who doesn’t love warm weather and sunny days spent in the Caribbean? (I love it so much that I lived there for two years!)I love spending time online researching hotels, finding the best airline routes, and browsing TripAdvisor for the best stuff to do on a trip. But what if you’re not into that sort of thing?What if you’re the kind of person who just wants someone to tell you where to visit, what to do, when to show up, and bundle it all into one package? I’ve got you covered.Say hello to [Vacation Express](https://www.vacationexpress.com/), one of the outstanding companies providing all-inclusive vacations from CVG Airport.For one price, booked in one place, you can build a trip and bundle airfare, hotel, airport transfers, meals, drinks, activities, and excursions.I’ve had about a dozen friends utilize Vacation Express and everyone raves about how amazing their trips were. So, to figure out what makes them so great, I went straight to the source and spoke to Rene Jongmans, CEO/President of Vacation Express.“We sell a wonderful product! You go to a wonderful destination, you go to a great resort, all-inclusive. That makes people happy. A vacation is a happy product.”JAY: When it comes to an all-inclusive, it’s all about convenience, right?RENE: “We’re one of the only ones who have all the non-stop flights from Cincinnati. And I think that’s why Cincinnati is one of our biggest markets. We have a fantastic client base, travel agents, and fantastic support. We make it easy for people to get to our destinations, it’s non-stop, you’re at the destination quickly at a beautiful beach and a great hotel, so of course you’re happy!”What sets Vacation Express apart?“The flights that we operate from Cincinnati are with great airlines. And I think that’s important. The on-time performance is great. Our flights have not been canceled. They go to the destination in the morning and come back late-afternoon, so you have a great amount of ‘beach time’ as we call it.”“And I think overall, just ensuring that we negotiate great deals with hotels. Most of our packages are with five-star hotels and sometimes when you look at the pricing and you’re like ‘Oh my gosh, I can fly, stay all-inclusive at a wonderful five-star hotel, and it’s maybe less than $1,500 a person. The value is really fantastic. Sometimes my friends say ‘hey, you know, I’m going to a weekend to New York or Miami’ and I’m like you’re probably going to spend more for that weekend than you do going for a week all-inclusive to a beautiful destination.”And for people like me who usually like to plan out every detail of a trip, Jongmans has a simple answer:“We always tell someone who wants to travel: don’t waste your own time on review sites because at the end of the day you can spend so much time and you still don’t really know that a resort is best for you. In 15 minutes’ time, we can probably tell you the right resort for you and that adds a lot of value to the service we provide.”What are the hot destinations for 2022?“Cancun is what we sell the most. It’s, for so many years, been the number one destination because we have the non-stop flights, the value is great. People say ‘oh, I want to go somewhere more exotic’ but they may forget there are a lot of great exotic resorts and new resorts that are built in beautiful settings (in Cancun). Punta Cana and Jamaica are a good #2 and #3. People tend to think more of other destinations like St. Lucia, Antigua, Turks and Caicos or Grenada as more “exotic” destinations… but your budget just needs to come up a bit more.”With more people traveling, should we book vacations further in advance?“I definitely think that this year you need to start looking further out. More people are going to travel and we’re seeing more destinations are easing up their entry requirements a bit. Some may still require a PCR or antigen test to get into the destination or they may have required a vaccination, but we are seeing destinations ease up on those requirements as well. As that happens, and hopefully at one point, the US will allow people to come back without testing as we’re already seeing it in other countries, then even more people will be comfortable traveling. I definitely still feel there is a pent-up demand.”Often times, people think of all-inclusive resorts as a honeymoon destination or girls’ trips, but they can be terrific for families as well, right?“A lot of families go on vacation with their kids and there are so many different experiences such as Nickelodeon Resorts that are very unique. We also have so many other hotels in different price ranges that offer free stays for kids. The kids don’t pay for their meals and drinks which is a fantastic added value.Is there an amenity that you personally really enjoy when you stay at a resort?“I love the turn-down service. I love when you spend your day at the pool or the beach and you come back to the hotel in the evening and they’ve put fresh towels for you, made your bed nicely and add some extra amenities sometimes. I won’t say no to a nice spa either.”What’s the one thing you always pack on a trip?“Suntan lotion. It’s always in my bag”Thanks Rene! And my dermatologist agrees… solid advice.Another person who agrees that all-inclusive resorts are an excellent value is Debbie Boyd, a Travel Consultant and owner of [Travel Happy](http://travelhappyagency.com/) in Cincinnati.JAY: Which destinations are hot with your clients right now?DEBBIE: “Punta Cana, Jamaica, Mexico, St. Lucia, Costa Rica. And all of these areas have really loosened up their COVID protocols. What’s awesome is that everything is opening up. Each week we’re getting more and more good news and it makes my job a lot easier.What has been very popular is Mexico, and every part of Mexico. I just returned from Central Mexico which was kind of off my radar because I’m more of a beach destination kind of girl. But I just got back from San Miguel de Allende which is awesome and that has opened up a lot of opportunities for people who want more cultural, cool, European-feeling experience without traveling those European miles.”You mentioned COVID protocols. How do you keep tabs on what travelers need to do?“As travel agents we partner with tour operators and suppliers who make our job easier and one of my preferred suppliers is Vacation Express and they have a whole section on their website that is quick and easy and constantly updated. All you have to do is type in your destination, even specifically by resort, because some resorts are more restrictive than others. And a lot of resorts have on-site COVID testing, right?“Almost every resort has on-site COVID testing and most of them were offering it complimentary. Now some of them are backing off the comp, but it’s only around $30-$35.”That’s just about the only fee you’d expect to see outside of the whole booking then, right? “It’s hard to beat an all-inclusive. I was just helping a corporate group book a trip and they want to reward their staff. As I was giving them the price, and they’re like ‘what other hidden fees are there going to be? What other taxes?’ And I said, ‘that really is it!” If you do a spa treatment or an excursion, that’s going to be extra but all of your food, alcohol, taxes, fees and your gratuities are even included. (But I always tell folks to take some extra money to tip those hard-working folks.)”I’m a DIY traveler, but when I was booking a trip a few years back I was pointed to a travel agent who had a promo code that I didn’t have access to. Is that often the case? Are there special deals or packages that you have access to?“We sure do. That may be like a free upgrade from a shared airport transfer to a private transfer. It may be a certain percent off during a certain booking time. We have access to things, not all the time, but a lot of times. And also, just little extra perks that maybe folks don’t know about. One of my favorite things to talk about is Club Mobay in Jamaica. It’s a VIP service for arrival and departure and it helps you get through all of the customs and immigration lines. You have a representative that meets you as soon as you get off the plane and they whisk you away and you walk by the long lines.”What’s the one item you bring with you on every trip?“Dryer sheets. I put dryer sheets in my bag so my clothes smell good. And I also put them in the vents in the room.”That’s brilliant. I’d never thought of that!Thanks to Rene and Debbie for the tips and if you have a good all-inclusive travel tip you’d like to share, I’d love to hear it. You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @jaykruzofficial. Be sure to visit www.vacationexpress.com to plan your next all-inclusive trip.And don’t forget, CVG is celebrating 75 years of commercial flight in 2022. Enter their year-long sweepstakes with monthly travel prizes – check it out here!I’ll see you on a beach in Cancun,-Jay

Plus, how you can get to the Sunshine State for less than you think!If you follow my Jay’s Deals page, you know that over the last year, some of the most consistently low-priced airfare from CVG has been to one of America’s hottest destinations: Florida. CVG Airport offers 13 nonstop airport destinations throughout airport, more than any other airport in the region. More than 140 weekly nonstop flights to the sunshine state on five different carriers helps travelers from Cincinnati, as well as throughout Kentucky, Indiana and beyond. With dozens of daily non-stop flights from CVG to sunny destinations, flying to Florida instead of driving has never made more sense. We’ve highlighted Florida in the past on Jet with Jay, so to give you a little extra motivation, I’ve picked out four more things in Florida you’ve gotta see!CVG Airport is celebrating 75 years of commercial flight in 2022! We are celebrating all our airlines with a Travel Dream Sweepstakes. Keep reading, but check this out and enter to win!Welcome to Key West! The aerial view of Key West resort town beach in Fort Zachary Taylor Park.#1) History on a Beautiful Beach in Key WestI love going to the beach, but I’m not the kind of person who can just sit around all day. I get restless. If you’ve got someone like that in your family – I’ve got just the place! Welcome to Fort Zachary Taylor, a 54-acre place that’s beautiful and educational. Built in the 1840’s, the Fort now has educational displays and the largest collection of Civil War military equipment in the world.If you’re into catching a nap after brushing up on your history, snuggle into one of the beach hut rentals and enjoy world-class snorkeling in a place dubbed “Key West’s Best Beach.”Check out non-stop service to Key West from Cincinnati, Kentucky and Indiana via CVG on Allegiant. Talk about great deals and cheap flights to Florida!#2) Ride a horse on the beachI’ve been on a horse in the mountains of Colorado, backwoods of Indiana, and farms in Michigan but nothing compares to riding a horse… on a beach!Make this dream a reality at C Ponies in Bradenton in Florida’s Gulf Coast, south of Tampa Bay and north of Sarasota. Adults and children ages 10 and up can saddle up and ride along trails and beaches. Along the way, you might see stingrays, manatees, or dolphins swim on by. (Amazing, right?) And as if this trip couldn’t get any better, your horse will even go for a swim! For an extra special experience, try one of their sunset rides.https://www.southwest.com/While you’re in the area, be sure to check out a breathtaking sunrise near the pier on Anna Maria Island near Sarasota.Book a non-stop flight from CVG to Tampa (TPA) on Frontier, Southwest, or Delta. Or fly non-stop into Sarasota (SRQ) on Allegiant or seasonally on Southwest, and be on the beach in just two and a half hours! And there are even more Allegiant options from St. Pete-Clearwater Airport (PIE).#3) Stay in Orlando for less… with a view!Heading to Orlando means [Disney World](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/), [Universal](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us), [Sea World,](https://seaworld.com/) and maybe even a short drive to [Legoland](https://www.legoland.com/florida/).And it can also come with a steep price tag, especially if you’re trying to stay on property at a Disney resort.So how do you experience theme park magic for less? Find a nearby hotel with a view you and your kids will never forget.One of my favorites is the [Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando at Sea World](https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/orlando/mcosw/hoteldetail). Not only does it have a 4.5 rating on [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g34515-d12164687-Reviews-Holiday_Inn_Express_Suites_Orlando_At_Seaworld-Orlando_Florida.html), it boasts rooms with million dollar views of Sea World. I found myself visiting Orlando on a trip in 2019 and the hotel everyone else was staying at was $300 a night. I booked this place for around $150, and it included a rather nice breakfast.Another option is to visit in the low season (aka: summer). Trips in July can be hot, but can also offer a great deal as long as you’re OK dodging an afternoon rain shower. On-property hotels like [Universal’s Endless Summer Resort](https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/places-to-stay/universals-endless-summer-resort-surfside-inn-and-suites) can offer some great deals.#4) Glow-in-the-Dark KayakingYou read that right.Welcome to bioluminescent kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay on the Indian River Lagoon in Titusville, FL!Hook up with a company like BK Adventure or A Day Away Kayak Tours for a guided experience in a clear kayak. You’ll get the chance to see little plankton or comb jellies that glow a bright blue-turquoise.How awesome is that?While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Kennedy Space Center and see an actual rocket!So go on… book that trip!You’ve heard me preach “let the low fares lead you” to your next vacation and there’s a good reason. You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your family’s vacation by booking airfare that’s on sale. Check out my guide on how to locate cheap airfare, as well as the nonstop destination list from Cincinnati – Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Start planning your trip to The Sunshine State and don’t worry if you forget your sunscreen like I did last time I visited… it gives you an excuse to visit a Publix and buy a cheesy postcard too!And, just want to sign off with a nice thank you from CVG to everyone! Happy Anniversary to CVG – January 10, 2022, marked 75 years of commercial flight service at the airport. Pretty cool . . . and they are celebrating with a year-long sweepstakes – you ought to check it out! -Jay

Mindy Kershner/ CVG Airport / original publish December 2, 2020 / Updated January 19, 2021/ Updated January 20, 2022Travel sites like Kayak, Travelocity, Expedia and Airfare Watchdog can be helpful when searching for that low airfare that meets your travel schedule. Jay Kruz’s blog, Jet with Jay, is also updated with travel deals and ideas. In addition to travel sites, there are some well-known pro tips on how and when to book a cheaper flight—like buying your ticket on a Tuesday around seven to nine weeks out from your departure date (during non-COVID times). And, traveling early in the morning on cheaper days like Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays helps, too.But, understanding why and how airfares fluctuate is a bit more complicated. If you’ve lived in or visited the Cincinnati region in the last 10-15 years, you’ve probably asked yourself this question. You likely recall airfares being high at CVG Airport. CVG was ranked having the most expensive airfares for several years, which is not a first-place title you want your hometown airport to hold. The further down in the ranking, according to the [U.S. Department of Transportation’s average airfare report](https://www.bts.gov/statistical-releases?shs_term_node_tid_depth=326), the better.So, when CVG started touting #69, #78 and #83 airfare rankings, we received the question: “how is this good news?”. The U.S. Department of Transportation takes the top 100 airports in the country (based on passenger counts) and compares their average airfares over a period of three months or one quarter. They then rank those airports from most expensive (#1) to least expensive (#100).A ranking of #78 ([CVG’s ranking as of the third quarter of 2021](https://www.cvgairport.com/about/news/2022/01/19/cvg-holds-the-lowest-airfares-in-the-region-four-years-in-a-row)) is good news because it demonstrates that airfares, when averaged together, are lower than 78 other top U.S. airports. And for four years, CVG’s airfare ranking has been the lowest of all airports in the region.But, how do airfares drop in price? To be clear, airlines set their own airfares. Airports work with carriers to identify and communicate opportunities for establishing operations and/or growing current operations. During the time when CVG had higher airfares, it was one of two airports in the country without service from low-cost carriers so not much competition. Now, the focus on recruiting low-cost carriers (i.e. Southwest in some respects, Frontier, Allegiant) to complement a diverse, strong mix of legacy carriers (i.e. Delta, United, American) has paid off. This work has enabled competition, which has driven down fares.When you have a good business strategy and each of these elements work together, you typically see lower fares (unless you are in the middle of a pandemic and then much of this logic is out the window). However, the CVG team is committed to keeping airport costs low for years to come so our airline partners can continue doing business here with the most competitive airfares around.

Scott Gibbons / CVG Airport / August 30, 2021Airports can’t say it enough: “Safety is our number one priority.” It has been and always will be part of our strategic plan and success defining measures.As we look toward 20 years since the tragic 9/11 attacks, we reflect on the changes in policy and programs that have developed as a result. The creation of the Transportation Security Administration, formalizing airport security screening under federal agency responsibility, was one very visible change. As much as travelers don’t like to wait in lines, we must remind ourselves of the purpose - to keep the flying public safe.Another addition was the implementation of the Support Anti-Terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies [(SAFETY) Act program instituted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security](https://www.safetyact.gov/) in 2002. This program encourages the development and deployment of effective anti-terrorism products and services by offering incentives for entities that demonstrate exceptionalism in providing anti-terrorism technologies.CVG has demonstrated our commitment to the safety of our passengers and employees by receiving designation and certification under the SAFETY Act. In 2011, we were proud to be the first and only airport in the United States to apply for and receive these acclamations. We are equally proud to have reaffirmed our commitment through renewed protections in 2015 and now again in 2021.What this means is that CVG’s security program, or technology (our “Airport Security Management Plan”), has been shown to be effective, earning the highest mark under the Act—certification. It has been thoughtfully measured by independent experts and evaluated as meriting this recognition. Because of our innovative work and attention to detail, travelers, employees, and the overall community benefit by our airport’s ability to respond in the event an incident occurs at our airport.

Mindy Kershner/ CVG Airport / July 1, 2021RECENT AIRLINE AND SCHEDULE ADDITIONS AT CVG“Vacation countdown begins” has become quite the catchphrase over the last month with more and more travelers planning and/or taking those trips they’ve been wanting to for more than a year now.With built-up demand and more airline and route choices at CVG, summer travel is predicted to be at 75-80% of 2019 passenger volumes. We have been busy over the last month and a half celebrating returned routes, [new nonstop destinations](https://www.cvgairport.com/nonstop-destinations/) and new air carriers: Sun Country Airlines and Alaska Airlines.- Air Canada: Nonstop flights to Toronto are scheduled to restart September 7th. This is subject to change depending on demand and international travel restrictions.- Alaska Airlines: One of the two new carriers at CVG with daily service to Seattle started May 20th.- Allegiant Air: New biweekly nonstop flights to Key West began June 9th.- American Airlines: Service to Phoenix will restart August 18th, new, twice-daily service to Austin will begin September 9th and new nonstop service to Boston will begin November 2nd flying three times a day.- Delta Air Lines: Nonstop service to Paris, France is scheduled to resume October 31st. This is also subject to change depending on demand and international travel restrictions.- Frontier: International service to Cancun has resumed.- Southwest Airlines: New nonstop flights to Sarasota and Fort Myers began on June 12th operating on Saturdays.- Sun Country Airlines: The other new carrier at CVG with biweekly service to Minneapolis, which began May 14th.- United Airlines: Four new nonstop destinations began May 27th and 28th to Pensacola, Florida; Charleston, South Carolina; Hilton Head, South Carolina; and Portland, Maine.- Vacation Express: International vacation packages to Cancun, Los Cabos and Punta Cana have resumed.CVG ON SOCIAL MEDIAFor more on CVG’s nonstop flight options, you can visit the [nonstop destinations webpage](https://www.cvgairport.com/nonstop-destinations/), follow the airport on social media ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/CVGAirport), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CVGairport/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/cvgairport/) or [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cvgairport)) or sign up for Flight Lines, CVG’s monthly newsletter that provides updates on air service, tips for parking and more.TRAVELING DURING PEAK SEASONCVG encourages you to give yourself plenty of time when flying out. Check out this blog reviewing what you need to know to return to travel this summer.SHOP CVGAnd in case you haven’t heard, CVG launched a new online store where you can show off your airport pride no matter where your travels take you. Check it out today! Shop.CVGairport.com.

Mindy Kershner / CVG Airport / May 24, 2021Increased travel, more airline choicesWith the increase in COVID-19 vaccinations, many leisure travelers are taking those trips they planned in 2020 or visiting friends and relatives they have not seen in some time.So far this year, CVG is serving about 55% of the passenger volumes we did in 2019. We expect the summer months to be at 70-80%. And with airfares at a 25-year low, and new routes and air carriers like Sun Country Airlines and Alaska Airlines beginning service, this number could increase.This is good news for CVG and the entire travel industry as more and more people feel confident to travel again.Travelers should do some research prior to their trips. [CNN travel](https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/us-state-travel-restrictions-covid-19/index.html) has a good state-by-state breakdown of regulations including quarantine recommendations, COVID testing and more.CVG celebrates the inauguration of two new airline carriers to CVG Airport, increasing both carrier and schedule options for travelers.Left or Top: Sun Country Airlines inaugural ribbon cutting with Sunny the Bear, May 14, 2021 / Right or Bottom: Alaska Airlines inaugural ribbon cutting, May 20, 2021Masks requiredWhen it comes to masks, they are still required in airports and on aircraft for now. The Centers for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) recently announced that people who are fully vaccinated no longer have to wear masks or socially distance. However, the CDC, Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the U.S. Department of Transportation are requiring the traveling public to still wear a mask on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation.This means all employees and passengers at CVG, and airports across the U.S., must wear masks while traveling through the airport and when flying on an airplane. This mandate was first implemented in January and was extended on May 12th through at least September 13th.Travel TipsAnd if you’re curious what airlines are flying where from CVG, you can visit the [nonstop destinations webpage](https://www.cvgairport.com/nonstop-destinations/), follow the airport on social media ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/CVGAirport) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CVGairport/)) or sign up for Flight Lines, CVG’s monthly newsletter that provides updates on air service, tips for parking and more.A few other insider tips as you make your way to the airport:- Ticketing and security lines may be longer than anticipated. And with local traffic issues such as work taking place on the Brent Spence Bridge, allow yourself plenty of time and arrive to the airport two hours before your scheduled departure. Your flight departure time is often when an aircraft pushes back from the gate, so pay attention to what time boarding begins and closes.- We currently have two parking options at the airport: the CVG Terminal Garage and the CVG Economy Lot. You can view details [here](https://www.cvgairport.com/parking-options/).It may have been a while since you traveled, but we’re here to help and there are plenty of other resources out there to plan ahead. So go ahead, call up your favorite travel companion and get back to the skies.

Lindsay Wiggins / CVG Airport / March 2, 2021The logistics and supply chain industry is growing around the world, particularly here in the Cincinnati region and at CVG Airport, with cargo operations growing at record pace. That growth is accompanied by additional workforce needs. Several community partners and employers on CVG’s campus have risen to the occasion in working together to implement a dual-credit program for high school students in Northern Kentucky. The program not only builds the workforce pipeline but ensures students are receiving work-based learning in this high-demand sector.The program is unique – a true collaborative effort. Partners include:- [Gateway Community Technical College](https://gateway.kctcs.edu/) for the dual-credit piece- River Cities Schools, including [Bellevue](https://www.bellevue.kyschools.us/), [Dayton](https://www.dayton.kyschools.us/1/Home), [Newport](https://www.newportwildcats.org/1/home), [Lloyd](https://www.erlanger.kyschools.us/1/Home), [Holmes](https://www.covington.kyschools.us/1/Home), [Ludlow](https://www.ludlow.kyschools.us/1/home), and [The Ignite Institute](https://www.igniteinstitute.org/) (Boone/Kenton County high schools)- [NaviGo Career and College Prep](https://navigoprep.com/)- Several businesses, including [CVG Airport](https://cvgairport.com/), [Atlas Air](https://www.atlasair.com/), and [DHL](https://www.dhl.com/en.html).This program allows juniors and seniors at participating schools to take dual-credit classes, including introduction to logistics management (LOM 100), which is an overview of general logistics concepts and organizational issues; inventory management and customer service in logistics; and transportation third party logistics. Another class is LOM 102, which presents an overview of supply chain management and financial analysis; inventory management skills and techniques; and supply chain design and sustainability solutions.Co-op ProgramA co-op rotation is the final piece of the program, allowing students to encounter true work-based learning experiences building upon the skills learned in the classroom and providing the opportunity for full-time employment in entry level roles upon graduation. CVG employers participate in the co-op program by hiring and paying students for their time. At the end of the two-year program, students graduate with college credit and have earned work-based learning experiences, as well as industry certifications ([Certified Logistics Associate and/or Certified Logistics Technician.](https://www.msscusa.org/certified-logistics-technician-clt-courses/))Airport employers hired co-ops from the River Cities Schools in spring 2020. Those employers included Atlas Air, DHL, CVG Airport and Wayfair. All co-ops at DHL were offered full-time positions. Five students accepted the offer and began their careers in aviation supply chain. In fact, one student continued to work hard and has been promoted to a lead position in less than a year. Success stories like these are not uncommon for airport and educational partnerships.The pandemic has impacted many employers, and there is an even greater need to provide work-based learning experiences in the logistics and supply chain. As of February 2021, DHL has nine co-op students, Wayfair has one student and Atlas Air has three co-op students from the Ignite Institute.These learning experiences are helping students gain skills to be work ready, all while building a stronger workforce and ensuring educational equity among several Northern Kentucky school districts.The program continues to gain momentum. More employers are participating in work-based learning opportunities, and more students are considering dual-enrollment classes to jump start their careers.Photo: Participating co-op students worked at CVG Airport's DHL location in 2020. Photo courtesy of DHLGet InvolvedIf you are a school district who wants to talk with CVG about partnership opportunities, contact Lindsay Wiggins with CVG Airport at lwiggins@cvgairport.com.If you are a student or parent interested in getting involved in this program, contact Lorraine O’Moore, NKY College & Career Connector at NaviGo at lomoore@learning-grove.org.

Laura Barfield / CVG Airport / February 10, 2021Behind the ScenesIf you’ve ever lived in the Midwest, you know one thing you can count on – an unpredictable winter. Luckily, at CVG we have one of the best teams in the business when it comes to winter weather operations. From weather tracking and planning, to actual snow and ice removal, this team does it all to keep the airport open and operational year-round. Here’s a look at what goes on behind the scenes.CVG’s winter snow team is on call 24/7For starters, CVG’s winter snow team is on call 24/7. The team is led by our senior airfield maintenance manager and is supported by seasonal staff – all of whom know the airfield well and are experts at operating snow removal equipment. This dedicated crew carefully clears the airport’s runways and taxiways, keeping them safe for takeoffs and landings. Our snow team’s dedicated and efficient methods have been recognized within the airport industry, earning numerous “Operator of the Year” titles, as well as placements at the annual Snow Symposium held in Buffalo, NY. In addition to CVG’s airfield, this team also ensures all roads and sidewalks on the 7,700-acre airport campus remain clear. From curb front to runway, that’s a lot to cover.Serious Snow EquipmentYou might wonder what kind of equipment is necessary to clear a 12,000-foot-long, 150-foot wide runway. It requires something a little more sophisticated than your average snowplow. At CVG, we have a fleet of nine Vammas snowplows: 70-foot long machines that sweep, brush, plow and scrub our runways all at one time. They navigate down a runway in a V-formation and can clear it in up to 15 minutes during a typical weather event. CVG was a leader in adopting this equipment in 2012, and many airports have followed suit.Year Round PlanningBut, it’s not just the winter months when the team is busy. They begin planning for the season in August and remain active until the last snowfall, which can be any time between March and May. There is a lot that goes into keeping airplanes moving when temperatures fall below freezing. Another piece to the puzzle is de-icing of aircraft, which is generally handled by an airline or its contractors.CVG Airport never closes, and our winter operations team is one reason why we’re always prepared for whatever winter may throw at us. If you’re traveling in the winter months and there’s a weather pattern that is questionable, we encourage you to check with your airline on flight status and any potential delays/cancellations. Sometimes these are caused by weather in other areas of the country. Some airlines will keep you updated on your flight status via text message updates. You can also visit our website, CVGairport.com, to check flight status or for more information.

Mindy Kershner / CVG Airport / November 6, 2020If you haven’t traveled by air in a while, you may not know what to expect. Airports and airlines across the country have worked together to enhance cleaning procedures and prepare facilities and aircraft for the health and safety of passengers and employees. In this how-to guide you’ll learn what to expect as well as tips for flying during the COVID-19 pandemic.Planning your tripReview your airport, airline and destination websites for travel guidance, relevant restrictions including COVID testing requirements, insurance policies and more. Links to relevant resources can be found at CVGairport.com/FlyHealthy. Be sure to arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to allow yourself time to socially distance, wash hands along the way and not feel rushed.PackingIn addition to your everyday items, remember to pack several face masks, cleansing wipes and now you can bring 12 ounces of hand sanitizer with you in your carry-on bag. You can visit tsa.gov for a [travel checklist](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/travel-checklist) or to view an infographic on “[What to Know Before You Go](https://www.tsa.gov/sites/default/files/infographic-062920.pdf).”ParkingAll parking at CVG has been consolidated to the Terminal Garage to minimize shuttling, ensure social distancing and continue offering convenient and safe parking for all passengers.TicketingPlexiglass guards have been installed at all airline ticket counters and CVG has significantly increased the number of hand sanitizer stations for in between hand washing. When checking a bag or approaching any line or crowd, be sure to socially distance yourself from fellow travelers.The airport’s housekeeping team has developed an intensive cleaning routine. All surfaces throughout the Terminal are wiped down and sanitized regularly throughout the day. This includes handrails on escalators and moving walkways. A new addition to the housekeeping team are autonomous floor-cleaning robots to allow housekeepers to focus on those other, important tasks like sanitizing and wiping down high-traffic areas.SecurityThere have been a number of updates at the security checkpoint to reduce physical contact with TSA officers. You no longer hand your boarding pass to the officer. You can scan your own pass, and then allow the officer to visually inspect it along with your identification. It’s helpful to remove belts and all items from your pockets such as wallets, keys and phones before you enter the checkpoint and place them in your carry-on bag instead of a bin. You can also remove food items from your carry-on bag and place in a bin for screening since these items often alarm the screener, and that way the officer doesn’t have to dig through your bag. You’ll be glad to know the officers wipe the bins down after each use, and TSA now allows you to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer on your flight.For more COVID-19 updates related to going through the security checkpoint, visit [tsa.gov/coronavirus](https://www.tsa.gov/coronavirus).ConcessionsMany shops and restaurants are open, but not all, and hours may vary. Those that are open are following their company policies on cleaning and sanitizing each location. This includes, but not limited to, regularly scheduled cleaning of all surfaces, increased cleaning in high-traffic areas, hand sanitizer available for customers, wearing of masks and gloves, and practicing physical distancing. Before you leave home, you can look up what is open and when at cvgairport.com/flyhealthy and click on the “Concessions” tab.Gate areaPlexiglass guards have also been installed at gate check-in desks. Most gate areas include signage reminders and/or markers showing the proper distance travelers should allow between one another. Seats aren’t blocked to enable families to sit together, but again there are reminders to encourage social distancing and respect each other’s’ space. If a restaurant has a crowd, or you don’t have time to sit down to grab a bite to eat before your flight, you can get items to go and eat at your gate. Many concessions have increased the number of individually wrapped, prepared food.BoardingMany airlines are boarding from the back of the plane to the front to minimize passengers walking past one another. The friendly gate agents remind passengers again to physically distance themselves when boarding the plane. On the planeAll airlines operating out of CVG are requiring passengers to wear masks while on board. Airlines have also enhanced their cleaning procedures, spraying down seat areas, cabin walls, overhead bins and lavatories. And, all aircraft have HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters which can capture respiratory virus particles at more than 99.9% efficiency. These are the same filters used in hospitals and doctors' offices. You may be curious about that middle seat. It varies by airline – some are leaving it open, others are not. It’s also a policy that’s being updated often. It’s best to check with your airline before you travel. To learn more about what your airline has done, you can visit cvgairport.com/flyhealthy and click on the Airline Info tab.One final pro tip to reiterate: Make sure to research your destination before you go especially during the pandemic. You’ll want to know what restrictions there may be. For example, look at what food and entertainment are close by and what their hours are for planning purposes. You can also determine if your destination requires COVID testing, where face masks are required and any other planning you can do beforehand to ensure your trip goes smoothly and exceeds your expectations. 😊Airports across the world are working together to share best practices and develop a seamless travel experience for you. Once you land at your destination, you may see similar updates at your destination airport. We hope you find this how-to guide helpful for when you return to the skies. If you have further questions before your next trip, you can message the airport on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/CVGairport) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CVGairport/) or contact your airline for additional details.

Hello Colorado!Here’s Why Colorado Should Be Your Next VacationColorado is an absolutely breathtaking blend of cities, mountains, valleys, snow, and sun. My family and I love visiting to connect with the outdoors and enjoy beautiful scenery, great food, and friendly people. It’s also really easy to get to with multiple nonstop flight options from CVG. So, let’s check out why your next vacation should be on Mountain Time.Hello from the top of Pikes Peak (It was 60 degrees and sunny at the base of the mountain!)It’s family-friendly (but great for solo trips and couples, too)We’ve visited Colorado on trips with and without a kid. Both trips were spectacular and unique in their own ways. On one pre-kid trip, we went horseback riding on a mountain. Loved it. On a trip with our kid, we drove up to the summit of Pikes Peak for some absolutely stunning views while he napped in his car seat. Loved it. There is so much to see and do for every interest, personality, and fitness level.Whitewater rafting the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon. Photo: Colorado Tourism OfficeIt’s a beautiful view around every cornerInterstate 70 heading west from Denver might be one of my favorite drives anywhere in the world. The mountain views are breathtaking, and you’ll find yourself wanting to pull over to snap photos more than once. Across the state, there are more than 58 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet tall known as “Fourteeners” that give The Centennial State a picture-perfect landscape unlike any other.The drive between Colorado Springs and Breckenridge is stunning.It’s a National Park playgroundColorado is home to four National Parks, each with unique landscapes and cool things to do.Great Sand Dunes National Park and PreserveAs the name implies, there are sand dunes here. Big ones. The tallest ones in America, in fact. Just under two hours southwest of Pueblo, you can ride a horse, check out a 4×4 trail or give sandboarding a try. [Great Sand Dunes National Park](https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm) offers a hilly desert landscape with a creek to cool off in during the summer months.The great sand dunes with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the background. Photo: Colorado Tourism Office.Mesa Verde National ParkIn the Southwest corner of the state lies a sacred, World Heritage Site containing Puebloan cliff dwellings where people spent over 700 years creating their community. It’s also designated as an International Dark Sky Park and features over 1,000 species of plants and animals, some of which only exist in [Mesa Verde](https://www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm).Tours are led through centuries-old cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park. Photo: Colorado Tourism Office.Rocky Mountain National ParkThe National Park Service puts it best: “Welcome to the Land of Extremes.” With meadows and mountains stretching across 260,000+ acres, there are a lot of places to visit within the park. More than 300 miles of hiking trails will help you see all that [Rocky Mountain National Park](https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm) has to offer. A timed entry reservation system from mid-May through mid-October ensures that crowds are evenly dispersed throughout the day.A lone elk wandering the reaches of Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo: Colorado Tourism Office.Black Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkJust 90 minutes north of Telluride, this park offers a view of some of the steepest mountain cliffs you’ll find in America. The [Gunnison River](https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm) creates opportunities for excellent trout fishing, hiking trails to welcome all skill levels, and a chance to see the stars year-round.Horseback riding near Idaho Springs.There are also 15 National Forest and Grasslands and three National Heritage Areas. Admission to each park is $15-20 per person; it’s well worth every penny. There are also annual passes for $80, senior [annual passes](https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm) for $20, and free annual passes for Veterans and active-duty service members and their families.The Isak Heartstone troll is a beautiful reward after a short hike in Breckenridge.It’s a ski and snowboard paradiseEven if you aren’t a skier or snowboarder, you’ve probably heard of Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen, or Steamboat. Colorado has 26 ski resorts to explore. Seasoned veterans have their favorite mountains and places to stay. Newcomers might want to check out the [Colorado Ski Country](https://www.coloradoski.com/visit-colorado/beginners-guide/) site to find lessons and information on getting started. Consider planning a trip to some of these towns in the low season, as well, as they can offer big savings and fewer crowds.Ready to take the first plunge of the day while skiing Copper Mountain. Photo: Colorado Tourism Office.It’s always sunny in… Denver?Yes, really. The Mile High City boasts over 300 days of sunshine every year. So even if the temperature is only in the 40s during the winter, you might want to pack the sunscreen! Spring to fall is especially nice with average high temperatures ranging from 65 in April to 90 in August and dipping back to 68 by October. You can use this nice weather to enjoy one of the 205 parks in the city, making it the largest park system in the country. Make sure you’re aware of the latest driving conditions, especially in the winter months, when some roads, including major interstates, can be temporarily closed.An incredible sunset over Manitou Springs.It’s a chance to catch beautiful fishOne of my favorite things to do is fly fish, and Colorado offers incredible angling opportunities, serving as home to the headwaters of seven major rivers. On a trip last fall, I met up with a friend, and we spent the day fishing the South Platte River near the town of Deckers. We caught some beautiful fish, but it was the hiking along the stream and scenic mountain views that really stood out. If you don’t want to go it alone or don’t have equipment with you, guided trips are available across the state to explore a few of the 2,000 lakes and over 8,000 miles of rivers. A knowledgeable fishing guide can help even a first-time fly fisher land a beautiful trout.The South Platte River is a beautiful place to spend the day fishing.It’s crafty (both drinks and arts)Colorado boasts over 300 craft breweries and 70 craft distilleries. Many of these, like [Tommyknocker Brewing](https://www.tommyknocker.com/) in Idaho Springs where we’ve stopped into, also offer unique dining opportunities as well. The town of [Fort Collins](https://www.visitftcollins.com/breweries/?locale=en-US) has over 20 of them alone and is known as Colorado’s “Craft Beer Capital.” There are also awesome artists in almost every town. Check out Manitou Springs, just outside of Colorado Springs, for some cool galleries and shops.Art appreciation along one of Denver's monthly art walksIt’s easy to get to!CVG offers multiple nonstop flights to Denver each day on Frontier, Delta, United, Southwest, and Allegiant; itis consistently one of the most affordable destinations. We’ve also found great deals using very few points. (Our most recent trip to Breckenridge was entirely booked with points!) Be sure to double-check each airline’s baggage policy when it comes to bringing along skiing, snowboarding, camping, and fishing equipment.The view on the way up Pikes Peak is phenomenal.Pro Tip: High altitudes like the Rocky Mountains of Colorado are no joke, and, if you’re not used to it, your body might take a while to adjust. On my first trip, I had a terrible headache an hour after arriving at our hotel. The receptionist gave me some medicine, told me to drink all of the water she had handed me, and go to sleep. I felt a little better the next day. Before any trip to a high altitude, I reach out to my doctor who prescribes a medicine to prevent altitude sickness (aka: acute mountain sickness), and it works beautifully.You could spend days exploring Garden of the Gods.Have a favorite spot in Colorado we should know about? You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [X](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial).Miners from Indiana dubbed this The Hoosier Pass in 1860.I’ll see you in a trout stream in the mountains!-Jay

A college student from Bulgaria chose Cincinnati on a whim for an exchange work program. She ended up falling in love with more than just the Queen City.Krasimira (Krasi) Beck and her friends landed jobs at CVG Airport in the summer of 2004. Krasi worked at a small sandwich restaurant in the former Terminal 2. While she was keeping busy with the influx of passengers, she became close friends with one of her coworkers, Adam.Krasi said Adam was very funny and friendly. They were nothing more than friends that summer, although towards the end of her time in the United States, she noticed Adam started becoming extra helpful towards her and her friends. He even started driving them home after work.Krasi returned to Bulgaria to work on her undergraduate degree. She enjoyed working at CVG Airport, and she was eager to return the next summer.Even though Adam and Krasi were a continent apart for a year, there was a spark between them that did not extinguish while they were living separately. The two started dating when Krasi returned the next summer to work at CVG.This time, Krasi had jobs at two different restaurants at CVG, and her boyfriend, Adam, was a manager for a couple of stores and worked 12-to-13-hour shifts.“We pretty much lived at CVG Airport…we would have our lunch dates in the food court,” said Krasi.When the summer came to an end and it was time for Krasi to return to Bulgaria, she and Adam decided to date long distance. He flew to the small European country that winter to meet Krasi’s family for the holidays.Although the two were very fond of each other, it was quickly becoming time for them to decide their future. Krasi only had one summer left before her senior year of college. She knew she was going to return to CVG to work for a third year, but she was unsure where her and Adam’s relationship was heading. After she graduated, she was either going to pursue her master’s degree or get a full-time job.When Krasi returned to the United States in the summer of 2006, she continued dating Adam, and the two worked long hours at CVG. Her decision then became clear.“Towards the end of the summer, he basically proposed to me. He was like, you’re finishing school, what’s next?” said Krasi. “He said, ‘I want you to stay. I love you.’’”Krasi said she loved Adam too and accepted his proposal. The two were soon married, and Krasi moved permanently from Bulgaria to Northern Kentucky. Her husband, who she fell in love with partially for his humor, jokes to this day about how he had to move from the West Side of Cincinnati for his wife.“I am still hearing to this day how he made this ‘horrible’ switch moving 30 minutes south. I moved five thousand miles and a continent away. He doesn’t mean it in any bad way but if someone asked him how we ended up in Northern Kentucky, he would say, ‘Yep, the wife. I love Cincinnati, I was born and raised here…but it’s because my wife made me move alllll this way.’”Jokes aside, Krasi said they enjoy living in Northern Kentucky. She earned her master’s degree from Northern Kentucky University and appreciates the convenience of living close to the airport.“It’s our home airport to fly anywhere. I used to go back home to Bulgaria every year,” said Krasi.Krasi and Adam now have two kids, a seven-year-old boy named Adrian and a four-year-old girl, Liana.After becoming parents, traveling became more difficult for the Becks. Krasi said recent route additions at CVG are going to make traveling to see her family easier.“We love the fact that there is a direct flight to Paris and now British Airways because it gives us a direct flight to Europe, and we make one connection to Bulgaria.”She said without these nonstop flights from CVG, she would have to make more connections, and it would take them longer to see their loved ones.Krasi said she’s very thankful for all that the airport has made possible for her and Adam.“It’s been our home airport since 2004, so if you really think about it, it’s 19 years…CVG Airport grounded us, and we put our roots down to settle in this location. We are still just five miles away from where our love story started.”Krasi and Adam take their kids back to where their love story began. She points out to their kids where mommy and daddy worked. She also tries to make a point to visit a friend who worked at Starbucks in 2004 and is still there today.She said visiting her friend reminds her of the three summers she worked at CVG. In addition to being where she fell in love with her husband, it also provided a professional milestone. “It’s a surreal feeling…it brings us back. We weren’t high schoolers, but it gives us that feeling. It was my first American job. I didn’t have any jobs in Bulgaria. This was my first job coming here with girlfriends,” said Krasi. “It reminds me of my happiest of memories; it reminds me of my younger years; it reminds me of my romance. Honestly, this is where my husband and I fell in love. We were coworkers at the beginning but that is how we met.”Krasi and Adam now have careers outside of aviation; she is an IT programmer, and Adam is an executive chef at a retirement home. They enjoy spending time around the Cincinnati area with their two kids. She says she looks forward to taking more flights with her family to Paris with Delta Air Lines and to London with British Airways, starting in June 2023. She said she can’t thank CVG enough for all that the airport has done for her and family.

Boarding bridges in Concourse B will soon offer passengers a fresh, new experience as they jet on and off their flights. CVG will begin a phased approach to replace all 28 bridges starting in June 2023. This project will span the next two-and-a-half to three years.Recently, CVG learned it will be awarded $14 million for this project through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminal Program. This program and funding was made possible as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. CVG had already been planning to replace these bridges this year, but this funding will accelerate the replacement of all the existing bridges, some of which are close to 30 years old.As the airport continues its ambitious strategic plan, [New Heights], this federal funding will go a long way to improve operational efficiency and provide passengers with a fitting ‘front door’ to the Cincy region.