In search of a group adventure with fresh air and stunning views? Wyndham’s new Hiking Concierge is coming just in time for National Park Week. Headed to the airport soon? Make sure you’re bringing the right documents, since REAL ID rules officially kick in on May 7. Wondering if a river cruise could add a little magic to your next meeting? AmaWaterways has something new that just might fit the bill.
As always, Smart Travel is here to keep you in the loop with the latest travel and tourism news you need to know.
WorldMark by Wyndham Promotes Hiking Concierge Program Near Top National Parks
For planners looking to combine the great outdoors with comfort, WorldMark by Wyndham is calling attention to its Hiking Concierge program just in time for National Park Week, which kicks off April 19. The program is designed to help travelers of all skill levels make the most of their time outdoors without giving up the comforts of home.
WorldMark partnered with Ash Nudd, a former park ranger and creator of the popular Dirt In My Shoes hiking blog, to serve as the official Hiking Concierge. With experience working in Utah, Alaska and Wyoming, Nudd shares expert tips and personalized advice through the program. Guests also receive discounts on select Dirt In My Shoes park itineraries, making it easy to plan a hiking trip that fits every level of adventure.
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“I highly recommend WorldMark by Wyndham,” said Nudd. “Each property beautifully merges the natural allure of the parks with the comforts of home, and multi-bedroom suites feature separate living and dining areas and fully equipped kitchens. Plus, most suites include an in-suite washer and dryer for hassle-free cleanup post-hiking.”
The Hiking Concierge program is available at five WorldMark properties located near some of the country’s most iconic parks, including Yellowstone and Yosemite. For groups, the combination of national park access and condo-style accommodations offers a unique twist on incentive travel—one where attendees can reconnect with nature by day and enjoy cozy living spaces by night.
Southwest Rolls Out Extra-Legroom Seats Starting May 1
Southwest Airlines is getting ready to offer a new level of comfort in the skies. Starting May 1, travelers may find expanded-legroom seating available on select retrofitted Boeing 737-800 and 737 Max 8 aircraft, marking a major shift as the airline gradually moves toward a more premium, flexible experience for business and group travelers.
The first planes to feature the new seating layout will begin flying this spring, with retrofits continuing steadily through the year. While the extra-room seats will initially be available to early boarders on a first-come, first-served basis, Southwest plans to begin selling them and offering assigned seating by early 2026.
According to Southwest’s updated seat maps, the first five rows of each refitted plane will offer extra legroom, along with exit rows further back. Preferred seats, located just behind the extra-room section, will offer standard legroom but sit closer to the front of the plane for quicker exits. Regular standard seats will make up the remaining 14 rows.
“Whether traveling for work or fun, we are evolving to better meet our customers’ needs with more options and more comfort,” a Southwest representative shared.
Southwest plans to retrofit up to 150 planes per month—an ambitious pace that signals just how seriously the airline is taking its commercial transformation. Along with extra-room seating, Southwest’s evolving model will also include basic economy fares and adjustments to its longstanding two-bags-fly-free policy.
REAL ID Countdown: New Travel ID Rules Start May 7
The clock is ticking for travelers across the U.S. as a major ID requirement deadline approaches. Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights.
Not sure if your license is REAL ID-compliant? Check TSA requirements on their website to be sure you’re prepared for your next flight.
“Passengers who arrive at the security checkpoint without a REAL ID-compliant license or an alternate form of acceptable ID could face additional screening and possible delays,” TSA officials said during a recent media event at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT).
As travelers prepare for Easter and spring travel, TSA encourages travelers to arrive early, pack smart and know the rules about liquids to speed up the security process. For added convenience, passengers can also download the free myTSA app or text AskTSA (275-872).
AmaWaterways Sets Sail on Colombia’s Magdalena River
Luxury river cruising has reached a new frontier. AmaWaterways has officially launched the AmaMagdalena, the first-ever luxury river cruise ship to explore Colombia’s Magdalena River, offering travelers a culturally rich and intimate way to discover this vibrant region.
Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena was custom designed in collaboration with Colombian craftspeople and led by architect Camilo Restrepo to reflect the natural beauty of the area. Handcrafted woodwork, twin-balcony staterooms, a Sun Deck pool and Latin American-inspired cuisine create an upscale, immersive experience on board.
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“Our expansion into Colombia represents a new chapter for AmaWaterways and for the world of river cruising,” said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways. “AmaMagdalena opens the door to a culturally rich destination, and we’ve worked closely with local communities to ensure our presence benefits everyone involved—from our guests to the people who call this river home.”
Two seven-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla and feature unique cultural moments like a private Barranquilla Carnival celebration, heritage tours of Mompox, birdwatching expeditions and a musical exploration of Palenque, the first free town in the Americas. Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available in Cartagena, Medellín and Panama City.
For incentive planners, AmaMagdalena offers an exciting new opportunity: a luxurious, small-ship experience paired with authentic cultural exploration in one of South America’s most biodiverse and welcoming countries. With support from ProColombia, AmaWaterways’ program emphasizes responsible tourism and meaningful engagement with local communities along the river.
Later this year, AmaWaterways plans to expand further with the launch of its second ship, AmaMelodia.
Waldorf Astoria to Bring Luxury to Turks and Caicos in 2028
Hilton’s luxury portfolio is getting a major new addition in the Caribbean. The company recently announced plans to open the Waldorf Astoria Turks and Caicos Dellis Cay in 2028, offering a private-island experience just a 25-minute boat ride from Providenciales.
Set on Dellis Cay, the new Waldorf Astoria will feature 62 hotel rooms and suites, including beachfront bungalows, along with 65 branded residences made up of two-bedroom condos and spacious villas with up to six bedrooms. Guests will have access to a 13,455-square-foot spa, multiple pools, at least four dining venues and thoughtfully designed event spaces perfect for meetings and incentives.
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“The signing of Waldorf Astoria Turks and Caicos Dellis Cay marks a momentous milestone for Hilton’s expanding luxury portfolio,” said Pablo Maturana, vice president of development for Hilton in the Caribbean and Latin America. “Our dedication to providing bespoke experiences will come to fruition in a one-of-a-kind retreat that harmonizes natural beauty and tranquility with refined sophistication.”
The new resort is part of Hilton’s broader expansion strategy, which includes opening 35 new Waldorf Astoria properties worldwide, with upcoming locations in Costa Rica and San Miguel de Allende.
