Looking back on 2010, there were a number of events to remember. Overall, travel saw a rebound from 2009 with more people traveling in the air and on the ground. However, the big news in the travel industry is the continued effort of the airlines to increase fees and revenues, cut costs, and streamline. Many of the big travel stories of the year have to do with the airlines.
2010 was also a big year for events. All over the world, we saw a number of big stories - travel bans, earthquakes, crazy winter weather, the Olympics, and the World Cup. We take a look back at some of the big stories in travel as well as some of the ones which have had big impacts on travelers.
Top 10 Budget Travel stories of 2010
1. Passport to South Africa : An interview with Clare Appleyard Part II - travel
The biggest sporting event in the world brought attention to Africa as South Africa hosted the Olympics. In a three part series, we highlight South Africa and its history (Part I), travel, and the sport of soccer (or football) in South Africa with a British citizen who has lived most of her life in South Africa. It's an eye-opening look at the country, travel, and the sport.
2. Travel 101: What you need to know about TSA body scanners
One of the biggest travel controversies of the year have been the use of Advanced Imaging Technology - otherwise known as the TSA body scanners. From leaked nude scans to improper pat downs, many people across the nation have protested these procedures. The controversy isn't going away soon but here is a little information about the TSA body scanners - controversy and all.
3. Winter Olympics 2010 - a travel guide
One of the big stories of the year was the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. For both Americans and Canadians, this was a proud moment to celebrate. With the Olympics so close, many had an opportunity to visit and it brought many nations together as the world competed in the best the Olympic sports has to offer. This travel guide takes a look at the Olympics and Vancouver.
4. Airline Passengers Bill of Rights in effect on April 29, 2010: what travelers need to know
The first step has been taken towards protecting passenger rights when flying. From being stuck on the runway to canceled flights to punishment for the airlines, the Department of Transportation took the first step with the Airline Passengers Bill of Rights. While Congress may look to propose more detailed rights in the future, this is a start.
5. San Francisco bans official travel to Arizona due to the anti-illegal immigration law
The illegal immigration bill passed in Arizona has been controversial to say the least. However, it's impact was felt on travel as San Francisco banned travel to Arizona in protest. The controversy over illegal immigration only got bigger.
6. Jet Blue(s): Is the 'Steve Slater effect' a disaster for airlines?
Flight attendant Steve Slater made big news in travel with his memorable exit on a flight. As a flight attendant, he had enough from a passenger and his frustrations led him to making an announcement on the PA system, popping open a beer, and exiting the plane through the inflatable slide. His story was heroic to some, controversial to others. While Slater was a big news story, is this story a sign of a bigger impact on travel?
7. United Airlines to purchase Continental in a merger
United Airlines purchased Continental Airlines as two of the biggest airlines in the US are merging. This merger signaled big changes to the airline industry. While other airlines have merged (Southwest purchased AirTran in 2010), this merger showed how much airlines are looking to cut costs, save money, and consolidate in an industry that has struggled.
8. Winter 2010 - 2011 forecast: Snow will impact travel in the Pacific Northwest and Midwest
One of the big stories that have impacted travel in the latter part of 2010 has been the weather. With torrential rains and floods and lots of snow all over the country, travel has been impacted by winter weather in 2010. The crazy weather is expected to continue in 2011. Who knew that the winter 2010 forecast would be so accurate? Christmas Day forecasts and weather played a huge role in canceled flights and many stranded passengers.
9. American and Delta Airlines pull airfares from popular online travel sites
While this was a late-breaking story in 2010, it might have one of the most profound impacts on travel going forward. American Airlines pulled their airfares from Orbitz while Delta pulled their flights from their airfare aggregator sights. This move may mean less airfare search engines for finding deals. It's believed these moves were done to save money but we will wait and see what impact this has on travel. Many believe this will not be good for travelers.
10. How to travel at home...on Twitter with #TNI (UPDATED)
Technology has greatly changed the way we travel. While airlines, search engines, Google, and other internet technologies have turned a lot of the travel research and booking over to consumers, social media has had a huge impact on travel as well. It's influence is growing. Earlier this year, an up and coming travel company called ZipSetGo sought to use Twitter and social media as a way to connect travelers and create a community. On Twitter, travelers have turned to social media for a better vacation.
As a bonus, here are some travel tips from 2010
Top 5 Travel tips stories of 2010
Thanksgiving travel 101: 10 travel tips for flying - While these tips were for Thanksgiving, they are useful for other holidays or any other time of year as well. Don't miss 7 travel tips for driving as well.
6 travel tips to find the cheapest flights (and why online travel sites can't find them for you) - With American Airlines and Delta Airlines pulling their airfares from travel sites, finding tips for cheap flights is essential. Here are ways to do it without using some of the popular online travel sites.
12 tips to reduce your wait time through airport security - With the new and controversial TSA body scanners, wait times through airport security may be even longer. Here are things you can do to avoid long wait times through airport security, despite the TSA regulations.
Easy meals for budget travel - Ever wanted to save money on food when you travel? Here are a few tips on how to do so.
11 tips on how to save money for your next vacation - As traveling gets more expensive, saving money is essential. Here are 11 tips on enjoying your vacation for a little less.
As the year winds down, the world of travel continues to bring us stories. From the World Cup to airline news to TSA body scanners to travel tips, it's been an event-filled year in travel in 2010. Check out these stories and let's look ahead to what travel brings us in 2011.
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Comments
Nice round up Jeremy
Gosh, look at that! You're so right.. it was a tough year for travelers!
It's been an interesting year for travel! Great recap
Just reread this post. It gets better each time! PS- There are so many pop-ups on Examiner now. It's crazy!
Thanks for all the comments. I think travel news is fascinating - especially looking at how travelers are affected by all that is going on. I look at this stuff like the stock market - keeping the pulse on what is going on in travel.
And yes Leslie, Examiner is getting bad with pop ups. Thank goodness pop up blocker works well for most!
Great recap of budget travel 2010.
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