JANUARY Q&A: NICOLE QUASTÉ, ASSISTANT EDITOR
In the January issue our assistant editor, Nicole Quasté, shared memories from Prague and asked readers: Have you traveled to Prague? What were some highlights of your trip?
I’ve visited Prague four times and still find something new each trip. On my most recent visit I took a side trip to Česky Krumlov, a charming Gothic town with some of the most beautiful architecture and cathedrals I’ve seen. Outside Prague, historic breweries make excellent day trips for anyone interested in local culture and craft beer.
ALLEN ADRIAN, Atlanta, Ga.
I’m drawn to military history, so Golden Lane at Prague Castle stood out for me. The preserved weaponry, fortifications and lookouts give a vivid sense of the city’s past. Prague is a place where history is visible everywhere you turn.
TOM CONNELL, New York, N.Y.
CURRENT STATE OF HOTEL IN-ROOM TECHNOLOGY
In the Jan. 11 issue of eFlyer USA we explored hotel technology. We asked: What technologies would you like to see more hotels adopt? Are these upgrades necessary? How does technology shape your guest experience?
Technology upgrades are essential, especially for frequent travelers. That said, tech should never replace good, personal service. For business trips, reliable free Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. I don’t need automated blinds, but I value streaming options and digital keycards—conveniences that streamline travel without erasing human interaction.
DANIEL SEFTON, via email
RETHINKING THE AIRLINE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE
In the Jan. 18 issue of eFlyer USA we discussed customizable cabin configurations. We asked: What do you think of modular aircraft cabins? Would this concept realistically improve the airline experience?
I oppose tailoring cabin amenities strictly by passengers’ financial status. While tiered seating exists, basic amenities should be shared. If airlines want exclusive services for premium customers, they can operate aircraft dedicated to those classes rather than making coach passengers subsidize them.
JOHN V. MATHEW, via email
FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS, MISHANDLED BAGGAGE AT ALL-TIME LOW
In the Jan. 24 issue of eFlyer USA we reported Department of Transportation data showing lower rates of baggage mishandling and flight delays or cancellations. We asked: Have you seen improvements in cancellations, on-time performance or baggage handling recently?
I still encounter delays on domestic and international trips, but cancellations seem less frequent. As a frequent flyer, I haven’t had a flight canceled in over a year, so that’s a welcome change.
KENNETH KEES, via email
My bag was recently misplaced on a flight to Newark, but the airline resolved it the same day and refunded my checked-bag fee. These problems still happen, but they do seem less common than before.
ELLA MORGAN, via email
Q&A WITH KIMBERLY KROL, EDITOR IN CHIEF
This issue launches our annual charity travel auction benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. As voluntourism grows and charity auctions promote travel packages, many travelers are finding ways to combine vacations with giving back.
How do you combine travel and charity? What voluntourism or charity trips have you taken?
Email us: [email protected]
MOBILE OPPORTUNITY
Holly Riddle highlighted how smartphones create opportunities for airports. I was skeptical about ditching paper boarding passes until a job required much more travel. Now I rely on my phone for real-time airline and airport updates and rarely print passes. These apps may boost revenue, but their convenience is undeniable.
GARETTE KOWALSKI, Charlotte, N.C.
STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS
It’s encouraging to see destinations like Puerto Rico rebound from challenges beyond their control. Susan Finch’s piece showcased new attractions and developments despite earlier health concerns. Puerto Rico remains a beautiful place and worth visiting.
NATHALIE RUTHI, Toledo, Ohio
A PERSONAL PATH
Betsa Marsh’s Bucket List feature about the Camino de Santiago was inspiring. Pilgrimages sound transformative, and this story has me reconsidering my own travel goals. I know someone who completed a pilgrimage to Lourdes in France—another meaningful option to consider for a bucket list journey.
ROSALYNN LERSH, Denver, Colo.
PAST & PRESENT: LUFTHANSA
I enjoy the new Past & Present section. Seeing early photos of airlines and hotels is fascinating—the 1926 image of Lufthansa onboard service was remarkable. I’d also like to see before-and-after images of iconic destinations such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and the Eiffel Tower.
LINDA BIRGIT, Seattle, Wash.
JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS
Editor’s Note: We apologize for an error in the GT Tested review of Jumeirah Emirates Towers in the January issue. The photos used were from Jumeirah at Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi. Below are images of Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai.
