Weekly Travel Roundup

Here are some articles and links from around the travel world that came across my desk this week. If you have any questions or suggestions, leave them in the comments, post them on our Facebook wall, or send them my way on Twitter.

New Mexico Town Questions The Abundance of Its Hot Springs

As heard on NPR, Fronteras takes a look at Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. It’s a quirky little town (which we visited on our way to the Spaceport) that has a lot of history – and a bit of a water problem. Formally Hot Springs, NM, the town’s locals are worried that too many wells may dry up the mineral-rich aquifer that draws so many visitors.

Inside Amtrak’s (Absolutely Awesome) Plan to Give Free Rides to Writers

Amtrak has started a test run of a writer’s residence – offering writers free rides and a chance to step out of their comfort zone and get those creative juices flowing. The Wire gives a rundown of the program; how it got started, what it entails, and how to apply (sort of, for now). I know I’d be able to get a lot of writing down on a scenic train ride from Orlando to anywhere (hint, hint)!

Asiana Airlines fined $500,000 for failing to help families after July crash

Asiana is the first airline to face a stiff fine after failing to “adopt and adhere to a ‘family assistance plan’” following the crash of Flight 214 in San Francisco. The DOT administered the fine, saying the airline took up to 5 days to contact victims’ families and failed to widely publicize an 800 number for help. In their defense, Asiana stated that they provided extensive help, but their job was complicated by low staff numbers at SFO and victims being taken to 13 different local hospitals.

American Airlines Ends Bereavement Fares

Bereavement Fares are on the chopping block at American Airlines. The fares, which offer discounted or cheaper prices for last minute ticket purchasers, were not offered by AA’s merger partner U.S. Airways and have been dropped to create a single program for both airlines. This leaves Delta and United as the last major airlines to offer such fares, but they aren’t guaranteed to be the cheapest. If you’re looking to save money on a last minute ticket, it’s still a safe bet to shop around.

Ryanair to offer flights to US for under £10 (but there will be some extra charges…)

Ryanair, the Irish airline always looking to reel in passengers with their “cheap” flights, is looking to the future – a future where they offer €10 (around $14) cross-Atlantic flights. The airline needs to build out its fleet and higher-end customer base to balance out these cheap fares, but the flights could connect up to 14 European destinations to the United States. Of course, you’ll have to pay for extras … like printing your boarding pass, using a debit card, getting a drink or snack on the flight.

Seattle makes it easier to find Nirvana at the airport

Alternative music fans now have a reason to take a connecting flight through SEA. Sub Pop Records will soon open up a record store in the Seattle airport, showcasing the music that made the region a musical powerhouse in the 90’s. Travelers and fans will be able to catch live performances or pick up that rare vinyl they’ve been looking for when the store opens in April.