We at TravelPlex wanted to update our customers on the latest about the coronavirus scare. Travelers are wise to take the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak seriously, but there are a handful of facts to consider before canceling any travel plans or ruling out travel entirely.

For one, the World Health Organization (WHO)—the world's authority on public health—continues to advise against any travel or trade restrictions to countries experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks.

We wanted to give you an update on the coronavirus situation. The three largest U.S. carriers recently announced that they have fully suspended flights to Mainland China in light of the State Department's elevated travel warning amid the coronavirus outbreak.

American Airlines on Friday announced it was suspending all operations to and from Mainland China through March 27 and that it would "continue to evaluate the schedule for March 28 and beyond and make any adjustments as necessary."

Hilton has decided it’s time for Tempo. The mega hotel operator has announced that its 18th brand will be an “approachable lifestyle brand curated to serve a growing segment of modern achievers.”

The first Tempo will open in 18 to 24 months. The goal is to grow rapidly once openings begin. All hotels will be newly built because of some “atypical” room design features.

Due to the expected static cost of crude oil, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service has lowered the rate used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business purposes in 2020.

The standard mileage rates for the use of a car, van, pickup or panel truck will be 57.5 cents per mile driven. This reflects half a cent lower than the 2019 rate.  

As we approach this time of year, we must expect possible travel delays as part of the “travel experience”. While delays can disrupt travel plans, there are a few things you can do to minimize the impact on your trip.

Here are some steps you can take to minimize the pain of being delayed - if you act quickly. Here’s how to get your travel plans back on track the next time you encounter a delayed flight.

I recently decided I would get a jump on what will surely be a last minute surge of people racing to get the REAL-ID drivers licenses. While you have a year before your current driver’s license will not be valid for identification at any major US airport or government installation (October, 2020), don’t delay your attempts too long.

The following are tips to heed to avoid my mistakes. I learned the hard way, and it took me two trips to the DMV to receive my new license.

Often times TravelPlex travel advisors are asked what we would do if we were to chose between TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry and Clear. The following breakout provides a very easy way to decide which of the three options might be best for your personal travel needs.

No real big surprise here, but higher airfares could be on the horizon as oil prices jump following the weekend drone attacks on a Saudi Arabian oil facility. Oil prices rose 10% right after the attack, and it will take weeks, maybe months, to get the facility back to full capacity.

According to an industry insider, "If the recent spike in oil prices were to be sustained or if oil continued to move higher from here, the airlines will look to aggressively raise fares."

With little more than year to go, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is ramping up public awareness for Real ID. A new nationwide campaign is reminding travelers not to wait until the last moment to apply for the TSA compliant state issued driver's licenses and IDs.

Beginning October 1, 2020, only a Real ID or an equivalent ID such as a passport will be allowed in order to fly. While that is still over a year away, it may be easy to put it off and convince yourself you’ll get to it soon. Don’t wait!