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I Flew Premium Economy on 8-Hour Flight With Norse Airlines; Worth It

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A few months ago, my procrastination caught up to me as I tried booking a last-minute flight home from Paris back to the US.

I’m typically a loyal Delta flyer, but I experienced sticker shock when I saw the prices of its last-minute economy flights back home.

So, although I don’t usually fly with budget airlines, I found myself researching flights on Norse Atlantic Airways.

The Norwegian airline is known for having affordable transatlantic flights, and its nonstop options to get me back to the US were hundreds of dollars cheaper than what I’d seen elsewhere.

So, I paid $670 for an eight-hour flight in premium from Paris to New York City. (From there, I’d take a cheap flight home to Texas.)

Although I was skeptical about the low prices — my premium Norse seat was still way cheaper than a similar flight in Delta’s economy section — I ended up being pleasantly surprised.

My ticket came with priority check-in, which I loved

Norse was very strict about baggage weight

Katherine Stinson



I chose to upgrade to a premium ticket because economy didn’t include amenities I wanted and would otherwise have to pay out of pocket for, like meals and a checked bag.

Fortunately, my premium ticket even came with priority check-in, which I was very grateful to have.

When I arrived at my gate at Charles de Gaulle, the check-in line for my flight looked incredibly long. Instead of waiting with the masses, I used my status to quickly board the shuttle bus to the plane.

I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious my seat felt

The premium cabin had a 2-3-2 configuration.

Katherine Stinson



Norse doesn’t have first-class cabins — its Boeing 787 Dreamliners are divided into premium and economy.

Walking to my seat didn’t take long, and I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw how spacious my premium-cabin seat looked.

The seat pitch is 43 inches and the width is 19.5 inches, much larger compared to the 31-inch seat pitch and 17-inch width in economy class.

My seat was so comfortable that I had no issues relaxing. I also had tons of extra legroom, though not having enough is rarely an issue for me at 5’1″.

I could stretch out my legs and still have space.

Katherine Stinson



Still, it was nice having so much space that my feet didn’t even accidentally kick my bag, which was tucked under the seat in front of me.

In premium, the in-flight entertainment screen could be pulled out from the armrest. On it, Norse offered an assortment of movies, TV shows, and music. I opted to watch “Gilmore Girls.”

The screen was easy to maneuver, and I liked that I could tuck it away when I wasn’t using it.

The flight had fairly standard amenities — but I couldn’t reach some of the seat controls

The flight attendants came by and handed everyone in my cabin a complimentary set of headphones, earplugs, an eye mask, and a soft Norse blanket.

I didn’t have to pay for my sodas, water, wine, or two in-flight meals since they were included in my premium upgrade.

At one point, flight attendants even came by the premium section and offered to top off my wine, free of charge. It was such a nice touch.

My view from the premium class.

Katherine Stinson



Although the spacious premium seats provided plenty of room for me to curl up and nap, I couldn’t reach the buttons to control the fans or reading lights.

Unfortunately, I wouldn’t have been able to reach the call button from my seat, either.

I also had to ask for help retrieving my carry-on when the plane arrived in New York.

On other airlines, I’ve been able to stand on my tip-toes to grab my luggage, but I would have needed a stepladder to grab my things from Norse’s bulkheads.

None of that was a major issue, but it’s something worth keeping in mind if you’re a similar height.

I’d fly internationally with Norse again — and I’d stick with my upgrade

All in all, the low-cost airline impressed me. I was especially grateful I’d splurged for a premium ticket, even though economy ones were hundreds of dollars cheaper.

The extra space alone (not to mention the checked bag, food, drinks, and priority check-in) made the upgrade well worth it.

Prices may vary (especially for last-minute bookings), but I’m still impressed that my upgraded Norse Atlantic ticket cost me less than what I’d have paid to fly Delta in economy.

Plus, my overall experience was more pleasant than I expected.

My seat felt pretty top-notch for a low-cost carrier, and I commend the entire staff for being so friendly, helpful, and welcoming throughout the flight.

However, I won’t be committing my loyalty to Norse Airlines anytime soon. It has a limited selection of routes, no direct flights to my home airport in Texas, and no frequent-flyer rewards program.

So, for now, I think I’ll stick with Delta and rack up miles for future rewards — but if I end up needing another short-notice international flight, I’d definitely fly premium with Norse Airlines.





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Hawaiian Airlines launches ‘Sip and Soar Sweepstakes’ to celebrate local travel and culinary excellence : Maui Now

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August 2, 2025, 4:00 PM HST

Sip & Soar Sweepstakes runs through Aug. 31, 2025. One lucky winner receives a Maui staycation package valued at $3,550. (Courtesy: Hawaiian Airlines)

Hawaiian Airlines, in partnership with Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival, is inviting kamaʻāina to rediscover the beauty and flavors of West Maui through its new Sip & Soar Sweepstakes. The campaign, running through Aug. 31, offers Huakaʻi by Hawaiian members an exclusive chance to win an unforgettable Maui getaway.

The sweepstakes is part of Hawaiian Airlines’ ongoing commitment to supporting local travel and community events. One lucky winner will receive a Maui staycation package valued at $3,550, which includes: 

  • Two roundtrip neighbor island flight on Hawaiian Airlines 
  • A two-night oceanfront stay at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 
  • Two priority access tickets to the “World of Wagyu, Wine & Whiskey” at the 15th Annual Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival on Oct. 25 in Kāʻanapali 

“This sweepstakes is our way of encouraging kamaʻāina, through our Huakaʻi by Hawaiian program, to reconnect with and support the vibrant community of West Maui,” said Alisa Onishi, managing director of Hawai‘i marketing at Hawaiian Airlines. “We’re honored to partner with Sheraton Maui and the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival to help spotlight the incredible culture, cuisine, and hospitality that make Maui so special.”  

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD

To enter, Hawai‘i residents must be 21 years or older and enrolled in Huakaʻi by Hawaiian by Aug. 31, 2025. Membership is free and offers exclusive benefits such as quarterly fare discounts, one free checked bag on interisland flights and access to special promotions. 

All eligible Huakaʻi by Hawaiian members will be automatically entered into the sweepstakes. The winner will be notified via email and must accept the prize and applicable tax responsibilities. 

For official rules and eligibility, visit HawaiianAirlines.com/OfficialRules. 



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ITA Airways Cancels Flights To Israel Amid Rising Tensions And Security Warnings

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Sunday, August 3, 2025

In a major move affecting international air travel, ITA Airways, Italy’s national carrier, has announced the suspension of all flights from Italy to Israel until October 1, 2025. This decision comes as a response to the rising security situation in Israel. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has driven this precautionary measure. Many travelers now find themselves uncertain about their plans and must reconsider their flight options to and from Tel Aviv, Israel’s main international gateway.

ITA Airways, a member of the Lufthansa Group and the Star Alliance, shared this announcement through its official channels. The airline stated that the suspension stems from safety concerns for passengers and crew amid the unstable situation. While these measures aim to ensure safety, they also expose the broader challenges international airlines face when political or security issues arise.

Impact on Travelers: Stranded Passengers and Uncertainty

The suspension of flights from Italy to Israel has disrupted travel plans for many individuals and families who were set to fly between the two countries. Travelers with existing bookings should contact ITA Airways directly for updates on rebooking options or refunds. The airline has committed to helping affected passengers and is working closely with relevant authorities to address the situation.

The uncertainty surrounding the flight suspension shows the challenges international travelers encounter when political instability disrupts air travel. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed by regularly checking the airline’s updates and any travel advisories from official government sources. Those planning to travel to Israel in the coming months need to be flexible with their plans, as the situation can change based on security developments.

Broader Implications for International Air Travel

ITA Airways’ choice to suspend flights signals a growing trend among international airlines reassessing their operations in the Middle East over safety concerns. Several other airlines have altered their schedules or suspended services to Israel in recent months, citing similar risks.

The impact of such suspensions extends beyond tourism or business travel. It also affects diplomatic and cultural exchanges between countries. Israel and Italy have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, with many tourists and business professionals traveling between the two nations each year. The lack of direct flights creates a ripple effect that impacts various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and trade.

For ITA Airways, the suspension is not just a temporary inconvenience for travelers; it could have long-lasting effects on tourism between Italy and Israel. For many, Israel has been a popular destination for historical and cultural tourism, especially for those interested in Jerusalem’s ancient sites, the Dead Sea, and the region’s religious significance. With flights suspended, there are concerns that tourism may slow down until security conditions improve.

Looking Ahead: Flexible Travel Options and Future Updates

While the flight suspension is expected to last until October 1, 2025, ITA Airways has stressed that they will regularly review the situation based on the security environment in Israel. The airline remains committed to passenger safety and will continue to monitor developments, providing updates as needed. It is also anticipated that flights to Israel will resume in phases once the security situation stabilizes.it

Travelers who planned to visit Israel should think about alternative routes or destinations for now. Many airlines offer connections to Israel through other European hubs like Frankfurt, London, or Paris. Some may also find it worthwhile to consider other Middle Eastern countries, such as Jordan or Egypt, which also boast rich cultural and historical significance and are relatively close to Israel.

Preventative Measures: Airline Responsibility and Passenger Safety

The flight suspension raises questions about the responsibility of airlines in facing global security threats. Airlines often temporarily halt or adjust their flight schedules in response to areas of conflict or places where risks of violence are high. In these situations, airlines must prioritize the safety of their passengers and staff. ITA Airways’ actions remind us how sensitive airline operations can be to changing geopolitical conditions.

As travel continues, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about security conditions in the region, consult official government travel advisories, and know their rights in case of a flight cancellation. Understanding passenger safety protocols and exploring insurance options can also offer travelers peace of mind during disruptions.

Conclusion: Managing Travel Amidst Uncertainty

The suspension of ITA Airways flights to Israel highlights the challenges airlines face when political instability disrupts travel plans. While the decision is mainly based on safety concerns, it underscores the complexities of air travel in unstable regions. For affected travelers, flexibility and patience are essential as they navigate the uncertainty of their future travel plans. As the security situation changes, airlines like ITA Airways will likely adjust their operations to ensure passenger safety, providing updates as new developments arise.

For now, passengers intending to travel to Israel from Italy should look into alternative routes or destinations and stay updated on flight operations. With global travel becoming more interconnected, the ability to adapt to unexpected circumstances remains crucial for ensuring safe and smooth travel experiences for all.

(Source: ITA Airways, Israel flight cancellations, flight suspensions, travel advisory, airline disruptions, international air travel, security concerns, Israel tourism)



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Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Open a New Chapter in Travel With Direct Flights, Visa-Free Entry, and Festival Tourism

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Sunday, August 3, 2025

Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are reshaping the travel landscape in Central Asia by launching a new era of regional tourism defined by convenience, culture, and collaboration. With direct flights now linking key cities, visa-free entry easing cross-border movement, and a growing calendar of coastal festivals and cultural events, travelers from these three nations are enjoying easier, richer, and faster access to each other’s destinations. This new chapter in travel isn’t just about numbers—it’s about connection. Whether it’s a beachside music festival on the Caspian coast or a weekend getaway in the heart of Baku, the region is opening up in ways that are bringing people—and possibilities—closer than ever before.

Rather than casting a wide net globally, the country is strategically deepening regional ties to boost its tourism sector—reviving momentum lost during the global shutdown and laying new paths for future growth.

From Baku to Basqal, Familiarization Tours Show Off Azerbaijan’s Diversity

To showcase its offerings firsthand, Azerbaijan recently welcomed tourism representatives from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan on a curated familiarization journey. The route led them through the cobbled streets of Baku’s historic core, into the tranquil villages of the Shamakhi highlands, and onward to Caspian beach resorts—each destination revealing a different face of the country’s tourism potential.

Along the coast, guests were treated to one of the season’s most anticipated cultural events—a music and lifestyle festival held steps from the sea. Combining regional talent with an open-air setting, the event struck a chord with visitors from neighboring countries, offering an experience that felt both exclusive and culturally familiar.

Tourism Industry Connects Regionally Through New Business Collaborations

To convert interest into long-term partnership, a regional tourism networking session followed the tour. Dozens of Azerbaijani hospitality brands, tour agencies, and resort operators sat down with Central Asian travel companies in a business-to-business format. The goal? Forge deeper ties, co-create travel packages, and open new promotional channels across borders.

This direct engagement with the industry helps ensure that Central Asian visitors aren’t just welcomed—they’re offered experiences and itineraries that feel tailor-made. It’s a smart approach, placing regional cooperation at the center of Azerbaijan’s tourism strategy.

Visitor Surge Signals New Momentum

Recent tourism figures show that this effort is bearing fruit. During the first six months of the year, Azerbaijan recorded over 68,000 tourist arrivals from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan—marking a 15% rise compared to the same stretch last year. The numbers reflect a growing appetite for nearby, visa-free travel among Central Asian citizens, as well as rising awareness of Azerbaijan as a multi-season destination.

Thanks to improved air connectivity, traveling to Baku now takes less than three hours from many Central Asian cities. Multiple carriers are now operating direct routes from four Kazakh cities and two Uzbek hubs. For travelers seeking spontaneous weekend trips or short family vacations, this connectivity has made Azerbaijan both practical and desirable.

A Caspian Sea Ferry Project Hints at Future Mobility

Looking ahead, regional mobility may extend beyond air routes. Plans are being explored for a high-speed passenger ferry connecting the Kazakh port city of Aktau with Baku across the Caspian Sea. If developed, the service would not only offer scenic passage but also reinforce a historical link between the two regions—turning the sea into a corridor for tourism and commerce.

This waterway connection could create fresh possibilities for cross-border exploration, opening up multi-destination travel circuits across the Caspian basin.

Tourism Recovery Rides on Strategic Long-Term Vision

The recent regional push reflects a long-term vision that began years ago. In a bold move to rebrand its image, Azerbaijan launched a global marketing campaign in 2018 designed to reposition the country as a must-visit destination. Part of that strategy included opening overseas offices in key international markets and designing a new tourism identity that emphasized its cultural richness, landscapes, and modern appeal.

Before the pandemic struck, those efforts had started to pay off. The country welcomed over 3 million international visitors in 2019—its best tourism year on record. However, like nearly all destinations, Azerbaijan faced a steep drop in arrivals in 2020, as border closures and travel bans took their toll.

Rather than wait for global travel to bounce back, Azerbaijan is taking a proactive stance—starting with the travelers who are just a few hours away.

Conclusion: A Reimagined Tourism Future Begins at Home

Azerbaijan is tapping into something many destinations overlook: the power of regional travel. By focusing on its neighbors—countries with cultural links, shared histories, and easy access—it’s setting a blueprint for recovery that doesn’t rely on long-haul flights or distant markets. Whether it’s a quick escape to the Caspian coast, a music-filled weekend in Baku, or a mountain retreat in the highlands, the country is crafting experiences that appeal directly to Central Asian travelers.

And with visa-free travel, direct routes, and expanding partnerships, this new chapter in Azerbaijani tourism is just getting started.



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