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Extravagant Airport Lounges and How to Get Into Them

• Al Safwa Lounge, Hamad International Airport, Doha, Qatar
• Star Alliance Lounge, Los Angeles International Airport, Los Angeles, USA
• Lufthansa First Class Lounge, Frankfurt am Main Airport, Frankfurt, Germany
• Qantas International First Lounge, Sydney Airport, Sydney, Australia
• The Private Room, Changi Airport, Singapore

The Wing First, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong

Getting into extravagant airport lounges.

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Air travel was once the preserve of an elite few. Images of spacious cabins staffed by elegant stewardesses ricochet around the web, periodically going viral in connection with some modern travel horror story. The most iconic photo though, the one featuring a late-1960s Pan-Am 747 with seemingly endless legroom and creature comforts? It’s a notorious fake. True, air travel was moderately more comfortable during the golden years. However, flying was expensive, available only to a select few, and painfully slow. Over time, mass-market air travel has largely democratized flying. Unfortunately, airlines have responded by cramming in ever more seats while simultaneously reducing benefits and services. There is one place though where luxury and comfort reign supreme. We are, of course, talking about those mini-palaces airlines reserve for their most exclusive customers. The fabled airport lounge. Often tucked away out of view from those of us with mere economy tickets, lounges have trended towards increased amenities as carriers seek to outdo each other in the quest for customer loyalty. So how does one gain access to these pit stops of luxury? In this article we’ll cover that and more. These are the most extravagant airport lounges and how to access them.

Al Safwa Lounge, Hamad International Airport, Doha , Qatar

Perched off Saudi Arabia in the Persian Gulf, Qatar, like the other Gulf Monarchies, has spent lavishly on infrastructure and development. Flush with revenue from oil and natural gas deposits, the state-owned national air carrier Qatar Airways operates from its base at Hamad International Airport in the capital Doha. In 2015, it opened the Al Safwa Lounge, a fabulously luxurious space aimed at the airline’s first class passengers. Using design inspiration borrowed from Qatar’s new Museum of Islamic Art, Al Safwa is a grand space with soaring atriums, interior fountains, and plenty of natural lighting. Guests can enjoy delicious international and Middle Eastern cuisine prepared by skilled chefs using locally sourced ingredients. Private areas for business are available, as are a luxurious spa, family room, and media center. Getting in here is not cheap, but it’s definitely one reason to fly Qatar Airways. If you’re fortunate to have a long layover or depart out of Doha, you will want to arrive with plenty of time to enjoy all Al Safwa has to offer. Jetlagged? No problem, book one of Al Safwa’s private rooms with a twin bed. Once you’ve recovered your senses, order up a chicken kabab and lovely glass of wine. Al Safwa is full of special touches that help make it among the most extravagant airport lounges.

Star Alliance Lounge , Los Angeles International Airport, Los Angeles , USA

Located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal, the Star Alliance Lounge at LAX features stylish amenities that include an outdoor terrace with views across the airfield towards the Hollywood Hills. The lounge’s full-service bar offers guests a refreshing array of inspired cocktails, which they can enjoy while they relax, dine, or work in the spacious facilities. Shower suits are available for those who want to clean up a bit before departure. What many people don’t realize, however, is the LAX Star Alliance Lounge also features even more restricted access areas. Beyond the outer business-class lounge is a special first-class area. Passengers holding first-class tickets can access and bring along one guest. Once inside, take a rest knowing you’re part of a truly exclusive club. Grab some snacks from the well-stocked buffet and settle in before your flight. This isn’t all, however. Given this is LA, airlines know there’s decent odds a celebrity will pass through at any given time. To accommodate the desire for ultimate luxury and exclusivity, the Star Alliance Lounge boasts two ultra-hard-to-access VIP rooms. Getting in here is neigh impossible. Airlines are tight-lipped about who they designate as VIPs. Presuming you make the grade, you can boast to your friends and entourage that you rank in a truly select group and have visited one of the most extravagant airport lounges in the world.

Lufthansa First Class Lounge , Frankfurt am Main Airport, Frankfurt , Germany

Germany’s flagship air carrier naturally has a massive presence at the country’s busiest airport. In fact, Frankfurt features quite a few Lufthansa-designed lounge areas. Standing out as ones you really want to access, however, are the company’s Senator and First Class Lounges. The Senator Lounge is located off the main airport concourse and available for Lufthansa and Star Alliance passengers holding same day first class tickets. Once you enter you’re greeted with a sleek, modern design featuring white walls and large windows. Enjoy something to eat before retiring to the quiet room for some rest prior to departure. Working tables easily accommodate your laptop or tablet if you feel compelled to keep polishing that presentation or meeting plan. Or you could take in the view across the airfield from the lounge’s “comfort zones.” Passengers holding first class tickets on a Lufthansa flight have access to the company’s premiere first class lounge. Located in a dedicated building, you’re treated to a security screening and terminal experience exclusively reserved for first class passengers. Bathrooms featuring showers and a tub are available for you to freshen up. Once you’re looking your best, head over to the bar where you can sample from over 100 top-shelf whiskies and other spirits. The first class lounge will occasionally sponsor tastings so make sure to attend if you happen to be passing through. Feel free to work in one of the private office spaces or head over to the restaurant area for a delicious meal. You won’t catch random people wandering in by mistake, which helps make the Lufthansa First Class Lounge one of the most extravagant airport lounges around.

Qantas International First Lounge, Sydney Airport , Sydney , Australia

If you’re facing the daunting prospect of 20 hours in the air on your way from Sydney to New York City, you might as well enjoy yourself on the ground beforehand. Qantas Airlines’ International First Lounge is consistently ranked among the best airport lounges in the world. With plenty of space, classic design, delicious food, and great views, the International First Lounge is where you can stretch out, work, or just enjoy yourself before you take to the skies. Pull up a chair and order something al la carte, indulge some bottomless Champaign, then retire to the in-house spa for a massage or relaxing facial treatment. The interior spaces feature a classic marble design, giving the place a slightly renaissance look. Wood accents and furniture soften the appearance and make the seating areas more welcoming. Large floor-to-ceiling windows provide expansive views out across the tarmac and let you observe the comings and goings at Australia’s busiest airport. Private work areas equipped with desktop computers and large TV displays are there for you to keep working on that presentation or strategy document. To get in you must hold a Qantas first class ticket or first class ticket with a Oneworld partner airline. Qantas Platinum or those with higher membership status can also access the International First Lounge as can Oneworld Emerald members and Emirates Platinum Skywards members. Do yourself a favor and don’t pass up the chance to visit one of the most extravagant airport lounges.

Photo: Instagram@pooinie

The Private Room, Changi Airport , Singapore

Changi Airport is widely regarded as one of the best airports in the world. With cutting-edge visual displays, gorgeous layouts, premiere shopping, and some architectural masterpieces, Changi is basically one big lounge onto itself. Make sure you snap some pictures of the HSBC Rain Vortex in the new Jewel building. The light show there is spectacular and attracts quite the crowd. When you’re ready for a more exclusive experience, make your way to the Private Room. The special Singapore Airlines lounge located in Terminal 3 offers fine dining featuring a range of Eastern and Western cuisine, private work areas, comfortable seating, showers and private wash facilities, and views out to the tarmac. Visitors to the Private Room often note the attentive service staff, who come around regularly to make sure guests’ needs are take care of. They will refill your drinks or help direct you to the other services as you require. The Private Room’s convenient location makes it easy and fast to get from the lounge to the gate areas if you’re departing from Terminal 3. Changi is designed with long concourses so make sure to note your gate location so you can plan accordingly. Passengers holding outbound first class tickets will have access to the Private Room. Those arriving to or connecting via Singapore will have to content themselves to a separate first class lounge. As one of the most exclusive lounge areas in one of the world’s best airport, it’s no surprise the Private Room would make our list of the most extravagant airport lounges.

Photo: Instagram@shelley_sullivan

Hong Kong has long been a gateway into China and other parts of Asia. It is a fabulous destination that offers visitors a wealth of options. From luxury shopping and fine dining to pristine natural parks, Hong Kong remains Asia’s premier gateway city. The territory’s main air carrier Cathay Pacific enjoys a reputation for quality and service. Naturally they maintain several plush lounges at Hong Kong International Airport. Among the most exclusive is The Wing, First. Cathay’s primary first class lounge prides itself on offering passengers privacy and comfort where they can relax and unwind before their flight. Set in the south departures hall, you can take some time for yourself in one of their stylish Cabanas offering a large bath with a rain shower, a day bed, and ample connectivity options so you can keep working in private. If you’re just looking to freshen up a bit there are also several shower suits with amenities such as a concierge service that will happily press your wardrobe while you shower. Afterwards, head over for a tasty meal at The Haven restaurant. Western and Asian dishes are on offer and include a range of options made with locally sourced ingredients. Naturally an array of beverages is available for you to enjoy. To get in you will need a first class booking or a selected Marco Polo Club membership. Next time you’re flying into Hong Kong do yourself a favor and stop at The Wing, First.

Photo: Instagram@theflewbug

Having looked at some extravagant airport lounges around the world it’s natural to wonder how to get in. Aside from the surefire way of booking a first class ticket on a relevant airline, there are a number of other strategies you can pursue. Lounges sometimes offer annual memberships. If you regularly fly the same route, this can be an attractive option to make sure you can take advantage of what’s on offer. To help defray costs, look for periodic sales or mileage discounts. Certain airlines allow frequent flyer miles to be used when purchasing lounge services. Second, much like how airlines created alliance associations, there are lounge programs offering access to different airport facilities. Look into these as a way of getting yourself in the door even if you don’t have a relationship with a particular airline. Third, whenever possible try to upgrade your seat on international flights. Business or first class tickets on international flights almost always come with complementary lounge access. Fourth, look for credit cards that feature great deals on frequent flyer miles or offer additional perks like lounge access. Card promotions are ubiquitous and often come with sizable discounts or benefits. A fifth options is to purchase a day pass. Check to see if the lounge you’re interested in offers them and whether it makes financial sense to grab a day pass. You can also check online resale markets where you will find day passes on sale from time to time. Finally, look for alternative spots offering comfortable places to rest and relax. If you happen to be in a particularly nice airport, chances are you can find lounge alternatives well worth checking out.

Once you’ve been to a good airport lounge, you instantly recognize what a great benefit they are. Simple comforts like small snacks, drinks, and a place to enjoy a bit of quiet time make all the difference in a modern travel environment. There are, of course, those lounges that go above and beyond. Places where luxury refinement and personal service turn a decent place to relax into something truly spectacular. These exclusive establishments keep the sense of style and elegance alive. Once you’ve had a chance to visit these incredible places we know you will want to keep coming back for more. That’s why we searched around and brought you only the best. These are indeed the world’s most extravagant airport lounges.

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Trip.com enhances loyalty program

Nov. 7, 2023

Trip.com loyalty program members are now getting better rewars and perks as well as up to 20% off hotel bookings.

It has enhanced it loyalty program as part of its sixth anniversary celebration. Customers can sign up for free to become a Silver member to earn rewards and discounts on bookings. Membership tier upgrades are determined by the number of valid bookings made within 12 months.

Members who attain an upgrade by completing a certain number of bookings will have their new membership tier extended by one year from the date of their membership upgrade. Trip.com will reset membership tiers according to the member's most recent settlement date.

For all member tiers, a new Emergency Assistance will be introduced that offers customers comprehensive help services ranging from medical support to translation assistance, child repatriation, and assistance with missing baggage. This service is available in all English-language regions.

Platinum and Diamond members can enjoy an exclusive Priority Assistance for Calls & Chats service for high-priority and fast access to a live Trip.com agent; a VIP Customer Specialists service for access to prompt and specialized assistance that has all of the customer's travel details; and a Free Airport VIP Lounge Access (once per calendar year for Platinum members, twice per calendar year for Diamond members). The VIP service is available for the following countries and regions: Australia, Great Britain, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Spain, Denmark, Italy.

Gold, Platinum, and Diamond tier members can now enjoy a full waiver of the train handling fee, using the No Refund Handling Fee for Trains feature (once, twice, and four times per calendar year, respectively).

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Trip.com elevates loyalty programme

Trip.com now has additional benefits for its global customer base, including renewed hotel discounts and VIP services.

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To mark its sixth anniversary, global travel service provider Trip.com has enhanced its loyalty programme which now features a renewed membership tier mechanism and increased member rewards.

During the promotion campaign running until 31 October 2023, Trip.com members can enjoy additional benefits on top of basic membership privileges.

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Membership tier upgrades are determined by the number of valid bookings made within twelve months. Members who attain an upgrade by completing a certain number of bookings will have their new membership tier extended by one year from the date of their upgrade. Trip.com will reset membership tiers according to the member’s most recent settlement date.

Customers can sign up for free to become a Silver member to earn rewards and enjoy discounts on bookings, including hotels.

For all member tiers, new emergency assistance will be introduced, offering customers comprehensive assistance services including medical support, help with translation, child repatriation and help with missing baggage. This service is available in all English-language regions.

Platinum and Diamond members additionally enjoy exclusive priority assistance for calls, a chat service with access to a live Trip.com agent, a VIP customer specialists service and free airport VIP lounge access. VIP lounge access is permitted once per calendar year for Platinum members and twice for Diamond members, and is only available in selected regions.

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Trip.com COO Schubert Lou commented: “We are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone as we continue journeying with our valued customers.”

At its recent Global Partner Summit, the company renewed its partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board until 2026 .

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Canaan Cox 2024 (Los Angeles) | The Moroccan Lounge

Get ready to experience the mesmerizing performance of Canaan Cox at The Moroccan Lounge on May 3, 2024. This highly anticipated concert will feature a lineup of unforgettable songs that will leave you wanting more. The venue, located at 901 E 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90012, is the perfect setting for an evening of soul-stirring music. From the moment Canaan Cox takes the stage, you will be transported to a world where music is the universal language. Make sure to mark your calendars as tickets for this extraordinary event will be available for purchase starting from November 17, 2023, at 6:00 PM until May 4, 2024, at 3:30 AM. Don't miss this opportunity to witness Canaan Cox live in concert and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Netflix Is A Joke Presents: Christopher Titus 2024 (Los Angeles) | The Kookaburra Lounge

Get ready to laugh your socks off at Netflix Is A Joke Presents: Christopher Titus! This hilarious event is set to take place at The Kookaburra Lounge on May 2, 2024. The address for this uproarious show is 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90028. Be prepared for a night of side-splitting comedy as Christopher Titus takes the stage and delivers gut-busting jokes that will have you rolling in the aisles. With tickets going on sale from February 14, 2024, at 21:17 until May 3, 2024, at 02:30, make sure you secure your spot at this not-to-be-missed comedy extravaganza. So mark your calendars and get ready for a night full of laughter and fun with Netflix Is A Joke Presents: Christopher Titus!

Provided by Markie | Published Apr 28, 2024

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THE 10 CLOSEST Hotels to Papa Lounge Bar, Elektrostal

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Komodos 2024 (New York) | Mercury Lounge

Get ready for a mind-blowing experience at Komodos, hitting the stage at Mercury Lounge on May 4, 2024. Located at 217 East Houston St., New York, NY, 10002, this concert promises to be an unforgettable night filled with electrifying performances. The show will feature a lineup of incredible songs that will have you on your feet and dancing the night away. Make sure to mark your calendars because tickets for Komodos will go on sale from March 29, 2024, at 14:00 and will be available until May 5, 2024, at 03:00. Don't miss the chance to witness this epic event at one of New York's premier music venues. Get your tickets early and secure your spot at Komodos for a night you won't soon forget.

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10 unique bar experiences you can have in Tampa Bay

W e crossed Central Avenue in St. Petersburg’s bustling Edge District, dodging cars and a group of mopeds. On the other side of the street, a hazy light illuminated a non-descript door in an alleyway. We entered, with hesitation and a small feeling that we were trespassing.

But once inside Bar Chica, the vibe couldn’t have been more warm and inviting. With dusky lighting and comfortable seating, the petit blue lounge at the back of fast-casual Cuban restaurant Bodega was the perfect setting for our small group to ruminate over potent, creative cocktails.

After my years of frequenting nightclubs, dive bars and restaurant bars, niche experiences like the one at Bar Chica are a welcome alternative. There are a couple of strong options across the Tampa Bay area right now, bars that don’t feel gimmicky but do emphasize a certain quiet, intimate, speakeasy vibe.

Here are 10 places to visit.

It’s best to make a reservation (online or phone) to discover this Hyde Park speakeasy. You’ll be texted a password and instructions for entry — leading you to the bagel shop Sesame where you place your “order.” Once inside, you’re transported to a realm where Victorian-style paintings mix with sleek leather sofas and a soundtrack of Golden Age hip-hop. The drink menu comes as a small book, with each featured drink correlating to a famous novel. For example, the Fountain of Youth — a bright, citrusy blend of Dobel Diamente tequila, Sotal Por Siempre, Genepy liqueur, honeydew, lime, cucumber kafir simple syrup and mint — is inspired by “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde. Drinks on the cocktail list average $24 each (for real!) but the bar is stocked with multiple options of every spirit, as well as a selection of “Dusty Bottles” (rare vintages) and a wine list. A small food menu features shareables like the gruyere cheese fondue, served with bite-sized bagel pieces, sliced chorizo, Granny Smith apple and carrots. Jekyll carries on the speakeasy tradition in Tampa first established by Ciro’s, one of the city’s first speakeasy bars, which has permanently closed . A Ciro’s pop up event happens at Jekyll in Hyde Park on May 8, where guests can bid on Ciro’s memorabilia with proceeds going to the Children’s Dream Fund. 813-358-3027. jekyllhydepark.com .

Punch Room at Tampa Edition

This intimate bar at the swanky Water Street hotel was the setting for a recent pop-up experience by Barcelona, Spain-based Paradiso. The team from the cocktail bar that’s considered one of the world’s best took over to bring wildly creative concoctions, including one called The Cloud featuring a nebulous coffee-flavored foam, with El Buho Mezcal infused with hibiscus and flax seeds, Altamura Vodka, Amaro Montenegro, dry vermouth, Xilitol Cordial, Piparras and Perrier. The Punch Room does collaborations like this often, making for a diverse experience depending when you go. But even on regular nights, the Punch Room is unique because it exclusively serves punch — and it’s not the kind your friends spiked at the prom. Instead, it leans into traditional flavors and spirits of the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico inspired by Tampa’s fictional pirate history, drawing on blends of rum and cane spirits, tropical fruit and spices. Settle into the chartreuse and lapis velvet furniture for close conversation while sipping the Tampa Punch, featuring two types of mezcal, pineapple oleo saccharum, lime, Worthy Park 109 proof rum and coconut sauvignon blanc. 5 p.m.-midnight Wednesday-Thursday, 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday-Saturday. 500 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-221-4600. editionhotels.com/tampa .

Dunedin Mix

The carousel bar is the heart of this new food hall and event space that’s inspired by New Orleans and Paris. It slowly turns while you imbibe, so subtly that it takes about a whole drink before it’s made a full rotation. There’s a happy hour from 2-5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, featuring $8 Hotel Monteleone (Bacardi, Luxardo Maraschino, grapefruit, Gifford Orgeat, lemon and pink peppercorn) and Sazerac (Buffalo Trace, Pernod, sugar and Peychaud’s) cocktails or $4 Yuengling and glasses of prosecco. It’s devoid of televisions, with the goal to encourage conversation with fellow patrons. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. 990 Broadway, Dunedin. 727-216-8861. dunedinmix.com .

You don’t have to be too virtuous at this St. Petersburg speakeasy — guests are referred to as “sinners” here. But you should make a reservation before entering the confessional, where you give Father the password. Inside it’s as red as Hades, but don’t act like a demon. The vibe is meant to be low-key and conversational, with no smoking or talking on phones. The 60-person venue seats by 50 percent reservation and the other half on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are asked to limit their time to an hour and 15 minutes. On the robust beverage list are ones themed for the seven deadly sins, martinis, an absinthe service, mocktails, wines and twists on classics like the Fallen Angel, with Angel’s Envy Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, Gifford Creme de Peche and Giuliana Prosecco. All cocktails are 50 percent off during happy hour, 5-7 p.m. Sunday-Friday (it’s closed Monday). It also serves light and sweet bites. 5 p.m.-midnight Sunday and Tuesday-Thursday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday-Saturday. 49 24th St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-258-7626. thesaintspeakeasy.com .

This music-forward cocktail lounge by Proper House Group just opened on April 19. While the music element won’t necessarily encourage intimate conversations, it still fits the bill for this list. Justin Layman, better known as DJ Casper, is the spot’s music director and has curated an impressive lineup of local and national DJs to set the vibe. Decked out in monochromatic deep red, it has seating for 50 and additional standing (or dancing) room for 30. The cocktails are updated twists on classics, like a Carajillo ($20) made with Don Julio Reposado, Licor 43, cold brew and smoked espelette. There are also zero-proof cocktails, wines by the glass and bottles of top-shelf champagne. 420 S. Nebraska Ave., Tampa. 813-221-9191. 5 p.m.-midnight Monday-Wednesday and Sunday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. Reservations are highly recommended. alteregotampa.com .

The Ship’s Hold

Tucked next to Florida-themed pub The Galley (and owned by the same folks) in downtown St. Pete, this nautically-decorated compact bar boasts the largest selection of fine rum and amari (brandies infused with herbs, citrus peels and spices) in Central Florida. In addition to the seriously long list of rum, listed by region, there is also a robust cocktail menu and weekly specials, including Mezcal Mondays featuring 400 Conejos Mezcal with $4 copitas (sipping vessels) and $8 Palomas. It also has food and offers specials like Taco Tuesday, but the best news is that it serves late-night bites until 3 a.m. — a rarity downtown. 6 p.m.-3 a.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday-Sunday, 7 p.m.-3 a.m. Thursday. 37 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-575-7071. theshipshold.com .

In the front, Bodega is the go-to for Cuban food and fresh juices in St. Petersburg’s Edge District. But peek around a barn-style door in the back and find Bar Chica. Try one of the signature cocktails, like the Florida Sour, concocted of Whistle Pig Whiskey, “Piggyback” 6-year rye, orange, lemon, rosemary simple syrup and a red wine float. 7 p.m.-midnight Wednesday-Thursday, 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday-Saturday. 1180 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Find it on Instagram .

The Catalyst on the Deuces

This bar, lounge and speakeasy will celebrate its first-year anniversary in June. It took over the former space of Chief’s Creole Cafe in the St. Petersburg district known as The Deuces. It’s home to the group Grown Folks St. Pete, so the age demographic of the crowd skews a bit older. The vibes are festive at both the outdoor patio and bar and indoor lounge, where live music and other events happen weekly. Food is available from Sid’s Caribbean Grill as well as a monthly brunch every second Saturday. 11 a.m.-midnight daily. 903 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. Find it on Facebook .

Bern’s Cocktail Lounge

If you haven’t been to the lounge at Bern’s Steak House since it was renovated in summer 2023, or if you’ve never been, consider a visit. It hadn’t been refreshed since 1998, and one of the main changes is that the bar has been moved to the other side. It’s a modern and sleek update that keeps some of the original touches, like the section of the seating area that includes the same California redwood boards that are found in the dessert room. Through a partnership with art consultants Cass Contemporary, the restaurant commissioned seven oil paintings from New Mexico-based artist Drew Merritt, which were installed in the lounge in April. The paintings evoke the still-lifes and portraiture of the Old Masters, with nods to Bern’s depicted in wine, steak, stone crab claws and an alluring female figure holding a water pitcher. Take them in as you sip one of Bern’s own fine wines and spirits, with labels also designed by renowned contemporary artists. 5-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday, 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. 813-251-2421. bernssteakhouse.com .

Star Trolley’s mobile Speakeasy Lounge Bus

St. Petersburg-based Star Trolley filled a void when it started in 2021, providing festive transportation for weddings. Owner Richard Novikas started it after he inherited a fleet of trolleys and busses from his family’s business in New Jersey. Once business started booming, Novikas considered a plan for his 44-passenger transit bus. Inspired by a trip to The Ringling Museum in Sarasota where he saw an antique circus train car, he turned it into a 1920s speakeasy. Novikas did all the work himself, gutting the bus and building out the bar and seating. About a year ago he started testing the concept and found that people were eager to get a group together, dress up in 1920s attire and hit the road. It’s bring-your-own alcohol, but a bartender who will curate a bar menu can be provided for an additional fee. The bus seats 30 people and you can organize a tour, whether it’s a bar crawl of other speakeasies or just a stylish ride to a concert. Novikas said many people prefer to just stay on the bus and party. star-trolley.com .

©2024 Tampa Bay Times. Visit tampabay.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Biden highlights chip investments during New York trip

During a trip Thursday to Syracuse, N.Y., President Biden touted up to $6.1 billion in federal grants to Micron Technology, part of an ongoing effort to bolster the nation’s supply of semiconductors. The funding is the result of the bipartisan Chips and Science Act passed in 2022, which Biden is highlighting ahead of November’s general election against former president Donald Trump.

Here's what to know:

Here's what to know, live coverage contributors 26.

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Election 2024

Get the latest news on the 2024 election from our reporters on the campaign trail and in Washington.

Who is running? President Biden and Donald Trump secured their parties’ nominations for the presidency , formalizing a general-election rematch.

Key dates and events: From January to June, voters in all states and U.S. territories will pick their party’s nominee for president ahead of the summer conventions. Here are key dates and events on the 2024 election calendar .

Abortion and the election: Voters in a dozen states in this pivotal election year could decide the fate of abortion rights with constitutional amendments on the ballot. Biden supports legal access to abortion , and he has encouraged Congress to pass a law that would codify abortion rights nationwide. After months of mixed signals about his position, Trump said the issue should be left to states . Here’s how Trump’s abortion stance has shifted over the years.

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Amazon’s Comfiest Spring Travel Outfits Start at $20 — Shop Our 10 Favorite 2-piece Sets and Jumpsuits

We found the most comfortable spring travel clothing for long plane rides, road trips, cruises, and beyond.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure

The key to curating a great travel wardrobe is by filling it with comfortable, versatile staples that can be worn in a plethora of ways. That’s precisely why two-piece sets and jumpsuits are the MVPs of my closet, providing all-day comfort no matter where I’m going.

If you head to Amazon’s fashion section , you’ll find a vast catalog of cozy yet cute jumpsuits and two-piece sets for spring. From a breathable linen outfit to the loungewear set of my dreams , these picks are easy to style and provide hassle-free outfit options. The best part? All of our picks are under $50, with pieces starting at $20. 

Automet Button Down Two-piece Shorts Set

I have trips to Miami, Cape Cod, and Asheville this spring and summer, and I’m packing this two-piece set. Complete with a relaxed button-down shirt and drawstring shorts, this set is going to be a great addition to my wardrobe for its seemingly endless mix-and-match options. I can pair the shirt with a pair of jeans or wear it over a swimsuit, plus I can sport these cozy shorts to bed and beyond — all for a mere $26. In addition to black, this two-piece set is in 27 colorways in sizes S–XL. 

Anrabess Two-piece Knit Sweater Set

Made from a soft fabric, this two-piece set includes a sleeveless sweater and loose-fitting pants, and it’s just $36 thanks to an on-site coupon. Not only are both pieces breathable, but together they make the perfect transitional set for spring because of its “thick but breathable material,” according to one reviewer . Plus, the pants are complete with practical pockets that are big enough to hold onto your phone and wallet. 

Zesica Two-piece Lounge Set

The best two-piece sets are the ones that offer versatile pieces that expand your wardrobe options. This set does precisely that. It’s complete with a loose-fitting cropped long sleeve top that can be worn with jeans, shorts, and skirts, along with a pair of jogger pants ideal for the gym, travel days, and beyond. Available in 19 colors, like royal blue and khaki , and sizes small to 2XL, this two-piece set is a must-have addition to your travel wardrobe.

Glamaker Oversized Bike Shorts T-shirt Set

I’m a huge fan of bike shorts since they’re lightweight, compressive, comfortable, and longer than spandex shorts. This set not only comes with knee-length biker shorts, but it also includes an oversized T-shirt that’s breathable and comfortable enough to wear on long plane rides. Even Amazon shoppers love this outfit, with one calling it the “perfect travel set.” 

Lingswallow Two-piece Shorts Lounge Set

A pair of lounge shorts and a versatile racerback tank are essentials for anyone’s summer travel wardrobe. Worn together or as separates, this waffle-knit set is made from a cotton blend, giving it a flexible, four-way stretch. Plus, it comes in sizes small through 2XL and 21 colors, including mocha brown , black , and purple .

Amazon Essentials Fleece Romper 

Shoppers call this sleeveless romper “cool and comfy” and love its “light and airy” construction that remains “well-made and modest.” Complete with a sleeveless V-neck construction and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool, this spring outfit can be donned for beautiful, sunny days or worn on a plane. And as an added bonus, the shorts feature spacious pockets.

Anrabess Linen Lounge Set

My favorite fabric to wear in the spring is linen. The material has moisture-wicking properties and a breathable feel, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather styling. I’m currently eyeing this $36 linen set that comes with a pair of wide-leg pants and a sleeveless top that lends itself well to long car rides as well as dinner out on the town. This set is available in 25 colors, including brown , deep blue , and light gray , and sizes small through 2XL. 

Anrabess Linen Jumpsuit

This discounted jumpsuit is comfortable for long travel days, dinner dates, and running errands. Crafted from a linen blend that’s breathable and flexible, the jumpsuit can be styled with a tank underneath for extra coverage or with a sweater on top for chilly evenings. And the best part? It features two front pockets large enough to hold essentials like keys and a wallet. 

Dokotoo Sleeveless Loose Jumpsuit

I don’t like wearing garments that make me feel restricted, which is why I’m gravitating toward this extra stretchy jumpsuit that’s designed with wide-leg pants and adjustable straps. This jumpsuit is crafted from a spandex blend that one shoppers said is “very comfortable, loose fitting, easy to get in and out.” Plus, reviewers reported that there was no shrinkage or color fading after washing this garment a few times.

Prettygarden Ribbed Two-piece Set

When I read that one shopper who traveled to the Dominican Republic called this two-piece set “breathable, comfortable, and cute,” I knew it would make a stellar option for other travelers this season. This sweatsuit comes with ribbed drawstring pants that feature an elastic waistband and a scoop neck top’s both breathable and comfortable. It’s so versatile that you’ll be able to dress it up with a jean jacket or swap in different pants, instantly doubling your outfits. It’s available in 15 colors, including army green and classic black . 

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Congestion Pricing Will Start on June 30 in New York City, M.T.A. Says

Transit officials announced the start of the program, which they have said will ease some of the nation’s worst traffic.

By Ana Ley and Winnie Hu

The first comprehensive congestion-pricing program in a major U.S. city will begin in New York on June 30, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced on Friday.

The plan remains contentious, however, and with months to go before its scheduled rollout, legal and political clashes could still dilute or stop it altogether. A growing number of opponents — including Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey, influential unions and some elected New York officials — recently ratcheted up their effort to block it.

The program is meant to ease some of the worst traffic in the nation, improve the city’s air quality, increase mass transit ridership and raise money to modernize the city’s subway, bus and commuter rail system. Congestion-pricing tolls are expected to generate $1 billion a year, with the revenue earmarked by law for capital projects, not operating costs.

The authority, which operates the mass transit system, also said on Friday that it had opened a portal for applicants seeking the program’s coveted discounts and exemptions. A website will guide drivers on who qualifies and how to apply.

Under the program, most passenger cars will be charged $15 a day to enter a so-called congestion zone below 60th Street in Manhattan. Trucks would pay $24 or $36, depending on their size. Taxi fares would increase by $1.25, and Uber and Lyft fares would rise by $2.50.

The program is widely unpopular by many measures. A survey of about 800 New Yorkers conducted this month by Siena College found that 63 percent opposed it. Still, out of more than 25,000 public comments about congestion pricing submitted to the transportation authority from late December to mid-March, roughly 60 percent expressed support, the authority said.

M.T.A. and federal transportation officials are defending it against six lawsuits in federal courts in New York and New Jersey that seek to halt the plan. The courts, which are expected to rule before the program starts, could possibly delay or block it.

“They are proceeding at their own risk in arrogant disregard of pending court cases,” said Jack L. Lester, a lawyer for a group of city residents who filed one of the suits.

This month, a federal judge in Newark heard arguments in a suit brought by New Jersey officials who argue that the congestion-pricing plan would shift traffic and pollution to some communities in the state as drivers try to avoid the tolls.

“We are awaiting a court ruling as early as next month on whether the M.T.A.’s unprecedented congestion-pricing scheme can go forward,” said Randy Mastro, a lawyer for the state of New Jersey, adding that “the jury is still out on this hugely flawed plan.”

The tolling rates, which the authority’s board approved last month , are still being reviewed by the Federal Highway Administration, which has already signed off on an exhaustive study of the program and is expected to approve the tolls.

Congestion pricing is expected to lower the number of vehicles coming into the zone by about 17 percent, according to a November report by an authority advisory committee. The report also said the program would reduce the total number of miles driven by motorists in 28 counties in the metropolitan region.

The fees are also supposed to discourage drivers from jamming roads and idling in gridlock, which contributes to soot and other harmful air pollutants. But some of the program’s harshest critics have pointed to evidence that certain neighborhoods could end up with dirtier air as a result of the traffic that is diverted. In response, the authority has vowed to work to diminish such potential harm .

Other cities that have adopted congestion-pricing programs, such as London, Singapore and Stockholm , have reported sharp drops in traffic and congestion.

David I. Weprin, a Democratic state assemblyman from Queens and a longtime congestion-pricing opponent, said of the plan that the authority was “trying to aggressively ram it down the public’s throat.”

“I don’t think the public wants it and I think it’s really unfair for people who have to drive and have no choice,” Mr. Weprin said. He has joined a lawsuit filed by Vito Fossella, a Republican and Staten Island’s borough president, and the United Federation of Teachers that seeks to keep the tolling plan from proceeding.

Danny Pearlstein, a spokesman for the Riders Alliance, an advocacy group, said in a statement that the start of the program “cannot happen soon enough.”

Congestion pricing, he said, “will be a win-win-win for all New Yorkers, commuters and visitors and will bring better public transit, cleaner air, and freer moving traffic.”

Ana Ley is a Times reporter covering New York City’s mass transit system and the millions of passengers who use it. More about Ana Ley

Winnie Hu is a Times reporter covering the people and neighborhoods of New York City. More about Winnie Hu