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Traffic and travel updates, roadworks information and information on incidents and accidents across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire including the A90, A947, A96, A92, A9119, A944 and the A93

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Destination and Tourism

CRISIS24, A GARDAWORLD COMPANY, AND DIRECT TRAVEL, INC. ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO ENHANCE SERVICES, CAPABILITIES

Direct Travel, Inc. | February 24, 2022

Direct Travel, Inc., one of North America's largest travel management companies, and leading global integrated risk management firm Crisis24, a GardaWorld company, today announced the commencement of a strategic partnership. Direct Travel is a privately held company created to help fill the service void in the marketplace for middle market travel accounts. The team—compiled of key industry leaders—provides corporate travel, meetings and events and leisure services ...

Hospitality Trends

CURATOR HOTEL & RESORT COLLECTION WELCOMES EIGHT NEW HOTELS FROM DAVIDSON HOSPITALITY GROUP

Curator Hotel &Resort | November 24, 2021

Curator Hotel & Resort Collection (“Curator”) announced the addition of eight lifestyle hotels and resorts from Davidson Hospitality Group (“Davidson”) to its rapidly growing portfolio. These hotels will access Curator’s best-in-class operating agreements, services, and non-proprietary technology to improve operating performance while benefiting from the enhanced relationships with other Curator member hotels and resorts. “We a...

MMGY PARTNERS WITH EXPEDIA, SOJERN AND ADARA TO INSPIRE TRAVELERS

MMGY | June 18, 2020

MMGY Global's integrated marketing agency, MMGY, has joined forces with Expedia Group Media Solutions, Sojern and ADARA to create a unifying campaign that reminds American travelers of the real power of travel. The new digital campaign, “Where Can Travel Take You,” is designed to inspire people to travel again and is slated to run through July....

Travel Technology

ALLIANCE ACCELERATES SUPPLIER-LED HOSPITALITY SUSTAINABILITY

Marriott International | October 09, 2023

Marriott International launches the Hospitality Alliance for Responsible Procurement to drive sustainability and supplier engagement in collaboration with EcoVadis. HARP focuses on achieving Net Zero targets and sustainability goals by pooling resources and expertise to address common challenges in the hospitality sector. The initiative utilizes EcoVadis' sustainability rating methodology and platform to increase supplier visibility and accelerate...

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Northsound 1 Traffic and Travel

Get live traffic and travel information for your area. See the latest incidents, engineering works, and road closures.

13 Traffic Updates

Keep up to date with planned traffic management and road works. Real time traffic information is available on the Traffic Scotland website . 

• A68 Dalkeith Northern Bypass
• A68 Pathhead to Tynehead
• A7 Auchenrivock Improvement
• A702 Candymill Bend/Edmonston Brae carriageway realignment
• A720 Sheriffhall Roundabout
• A737 Dalry Bypass
• A737 Improvements at Beith
• A737 Roadhead Roundabout
• A737 The Den Realignment
• A75 Barfil to Bettyknowes
• A75 Cairntop to Barlae
• A75 Dunragit Bypass
• A75 Hardgrove
• A75 Mossyard
• A75 Newton Stewart DAL
• A75 Planting End to Drumflower
• A76 Glenairlie Improvement Scheme
• A77 Glen App Improvement Project
• A77 Haggstone Climbing Lane
• A77 Maybole Bypass
• A77 Park End to Bennane Improvement Project
• A77 Symington and Bogend Toll
• A82 Allt Chonoglais Bridge Replacement
• A82 Ba Bridge Replacement
• A82 Crianlarich Bypass
• A82 Improvements
• A82 Pulpit Rock
• A82 Stuckindroin Bridge
• A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan
• A82 Wellington Lay-by Allt Cumhang Wall
• A83 Improvements
• A830 Arisaig to Loch nan Uamh
• A830 Dearg Bridge Replacement
• A830 Garbh Bridge Replacement
• A830 Utha Bridge Replacement
• A876 Upper Forth Crossing at Kincardine
• A887 Lagain Bhain Bridge Replacement
• A898 Erskine Bridge Lighting and Electrical Refurbishment
• A898 Erskine Bridge Vehicle Barrier Replacement
• A9 Ballinluig Junction Improvements
• A9 Bankfoot Junction Improvement
• A9 Berriedale Braes Improvement Project
• A9 Carrbridge 2+1 Improvements and Maintenance
• A9 Clunie Bridge Deck Refurbishment
• A9 Cromarty Bridge Refurbishment
• A9 Crubenmore Dual Carriageway Northern Extension
• A9 Dualling Perth to Inverness
• A9 Helmsdale to Ord of Caithness Improvements Phase 2
• A9 Kessock Bridge Resurfacing
• A9 Moy 2+1 Improvements and Maintenance
• A9 Portgower Mill Bridge Replacement
• A9/A82 Longman Junction Improvement Scheme
• A9/A96 Connections Study
• A9/A96 Inshes to Smithton
• A90/A937 Laurencekirk Junction Improvement Scheme
• A92 Edenbank Bridge Strengthening
• A92/A96 Haudagain Improvement
• A95 Gaich to Craggan Section Improvements
• A95 Lackghie Carriageway Realignment
• A96 Dualling Inverness to Aberdeen
• A96 Fochabers and Mosstodloch Bypass
• A96 Inveramsay Bridge
• A96 Threapland Junction Improvements
• A985 Kincardine Bridge Refurbishment — Phase 1, Central Swing Span Re-waterproofing
• Aberdeen to Inverness Rail Improvements
• Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route / Balmedie to Tipperty
• Access to Argyll and Bute (A83)
• Aviemore to Carrbridge non-motorised user route study
• Borders Railway
• Conon Bridge Station
• Control Period 5 - Electrification Programme
• Dalmarnock Station
• Dundee Station Redevelopment
• Edinburgh Glasgow Improvement Programme (EGIP)
• Forth Replacement Crossing
• Glasgow Subway Modernisation
• High Speed Rail
• Highland Main Line
• M74 Completion
• M8 Harthill Footbridge Replacement
• M8 Hillington Footbridge Replacement
• M8 Kingston Bridge South Approaches — Cope and Parapet Refurbishment
• M8 M73 M74 Motorway Improvements
• M8 Seaward Street
• M80 Stepps to Haggs
• M876 Glenbervie Connecting Roads
• Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine Railway Project
• Upgrading Gleneagles Station for 2014
• Waverley Steps
• West of Scotland Programme

Local Authority

• Aberdeen City Council
• Aberdeenshire Council
• Angus Council
• Argyll and Bute Council
• Clackmannanshire Council
• Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council)
• Dumfries and Galloway Council
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• East Ayrshire Council
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• East Lothian Council
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• South Ayrshire Council
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Three days of lane restrictions on M74 northbound link road to M73 northbound carriageway at Junction 4 Maryville, and, five overnight closures of M74 northbound link road to M73 northbound carriageway

The M74 northbound Link Road to the M73 northbound carriageway at Junction 4 Maryville, including the off slip road for Daldowie, will be closed overnight for five nights, from Monday 18 March

Overnight closures of the A8 eastbound and westbound carriageways between Chapelhall Junction and Newhouse Junction

Four overnight closures of a8 eastbound and westbound carriageways between eurocentral junction and newhouse junction.

The A8 eastbound and westbound carriageways between Eurocentral Junction and Newhouse Junction will each be closed overnight, for four consecutive nights between 8pm and 6am, starting on Monday 4 December.

Two overnight closures of M74 northbound carriageway between Junction 6 Hamilton/Motherwell and Junction 5 Raith

The M74 northbound carriageway between Junction 6 Hamilton/Motherwell and Junction 5 Raith will be closed for two nights, Wednesday 29 November and Thursday 30 November.

Overnight closures of M8 westbound carriageway between Junction 8 Baillieston and Junction 10 Easterhouse (Glasgow Fort) (1)

The M8 westbound carriageway between Junction 8 Baillieston and Junction 10 Easterhouse (Glasgow Fort) will be closed for three consecutive nights

Lane Restrictions, M74 northbound carriageway between Junction 6 Hamilton and the off slip road to Hamilton Motorway Service Area

Lane restrictions commencing on November 10.

Six overnight closures of A725 northbound and southbound carriageways between A7071 near Raith Junction and Bellziehill Junction

The A725 between the A7071 near Raith Junction and Bellziehill Junction will be closed for six nights, in two phases.

Two Overnight closures of M8 eastbound and westbound carriageways at Junction 8 Baillieston between the off-slip and on-slip roads

Two consecutive overnight closures starting on Monday 9 October

6 Weeks of Lane Closures & 4-Way Traffic Signals in position 24/7 - M74 Junction 3A Daldowie Overbridge between the southbound off slip road and northbound on slip road

Thirteen overnight closures of m74 northbound carriageway between junction 4 maryville and junction 2a cambuslang.

Thirteen overnight closures of M74 northbound carriageway between Junction 4 Maryville & Junction 2A Cambuslang, commencing on the 17 July 2023.

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We put temporary traffic restrictions in place when necessary, for example for roadworks or major events. the most common types of traffic restriction are:.

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• Temporary speed limits

Road closures may also be required for local gala events or public gatherings. We identify alternative traffic routes for temporary road closures where possible.

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Union Terrace Gardens

The city of Aberdeen sits on the north east coast of Scotland. Aberdeen is famous for its sparkling, granite buildings and monuments, the central beach, dolphins and the warming tones of 'Doric', the local Scots dialect you'll hear in the streets.

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11 Hidden Gems in Aberdeen

Explore the secret spots & attractions of Aberdeen from stunning historic architecture to dolphin spotting by the harbour.

10 things to see & do in Aberdeen for free

Discover amazing things to see & do in Aberdeen for free. Including museums, gardens, family friendly attractions, and more!

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Getting to aberdeen, getting around aberdeen, bus and coach.

There are many frequent and affordable bus services that travel from various main cities to Aberdeen daily.

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Aberdeen’s railway station, right in the heart of the city, has frequent fast and reliable services to and from major cities.

LNER trains run along the east coast from cities such as Edinburgh, York, Newcastle and London.

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ScotRail provides an express rail service direct to Aberdeen from many major cities.

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Aberdeen can also be reached overnight from London on the Caledonian Sleeper.

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Aberdeen is about 2.5 hours’ drive from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.

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There are many car hire companies operatiing in Aberdeen.

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Fly into  Aberdeen International Airport  which is about 6 miles from the city centre. 

The region is well connected globally with daily flights to all major airports including London Heathrow, Paris and Amsterdam. The international airport also has many direct routes to most UK cities as well as many key European destinations.

Or fly to one of Scotland's airports and journey up to Aberdeen by bus, or train.

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Ferries travel regularly from Orkney and Shetland.

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal is located at Jamieson's Quay across from Union Square and the Aberdeen Railway Station.

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You can easily rent a Big Issue e-bike in Aberdeen. Pay as you go for £1 every 7 minutes or subscriptions start from £20 a month.

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Aberdeen is easily explored on foot with most key attractions within walking distance of each other. Attractions beyond the city centre can be reached cost effectively by public transport and again explored further by foot.

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First Group  operate regular buses across the city of Aberdeen while  Stagecoach Bluebird's  buses link the towns and villages in Aberdeenshire.

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Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

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Aberdeen Art Gallery and War Memorial, Aberdeen

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Aberdeen Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of nationally significant works by artists, designers and makers. The collection stretches over 700 years and is regarded as one of the UK's finest!

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Aberdeen is northeast Scotland's powerhouse, fuelled by the North Sea petroleum industry. Oil money made the city as expensive as London, with prices charged to match the depth of oil-wealthy pockets, though regular downturns in the industry see prices fall. Fortunately, most cultural attractions, such as the Maritime Museum and Aberdeen Art Gallery, are free.

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Must-see attractions.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Overlooking the nautical bustle of Aberdeen harbour is the Maritime Museum, centred on a three-storey replica of a North Sea oil-production platform,…

Gordon Highlanders Museum

This excellent museum records the history of one of the British Army's most famous fighting units, described by Winston Churchill as 'the finest regiment…

Marischal College

Marischal College, founded in 1593 by the 5th Earl Marischal, merged with King's College (founded 1495) in 1860 to create the modern University of…

Aberdeen Art Gallery

Behind the grand facade of Aberdeen Art Gallery (closed for a major redevelopment until early 2019) is a cool, marble-lined space exhibiting the work of…

Provost Skene's House

This late-medieval turreted town house was occupied in the 17th century by the provost (Scottish equivalent of a mayor) Sir George Skene. It was also…

St Machar's Cathedral

The 15th-century St Machar's, with its massive twin towers, is a rare example of a fortified cathedral. According to legend, St Machar was ordered to…

St Nicholas Church

On the northern side of Union St, 300m west of Castlegate, is St Nicholas Church, the so-called 'Mither Kirk' (Mother Church) of Aberdeen. The granite…

King’s College Chapel

It was here that Bishop Elphinstone established King's College, Aberdeen's first university (and Scotland's third), in 1495. The 16th-century college…

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The 15 best things to do in aberdeen: art, natural beauty and bespoke gin.

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This Olympic-size (50m), heated, seawater pool was built in 1934 in art-deco style, and sits on the seafront to the north of Stonehaven town centre. The…

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Aberdeen's beachfront Esplanade sports several traditional seaside attractions, including Codona’s Amusement Park, complete with stomach-churning waltzers…

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Jan 25, 2022 • 8 min read

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The days are getting longer and hotter, and millions of Americans are making plans for summer vacation. According to NerdWallet’s annual summer travel survey, nearly half of Americans (45%) plan to take a trip that requires a flight or hotel stay this summer, and they’ll spend $3,594, on average, on these expenses. That’s over 118 million Americans spending a total of more than $424 billion on airfare and hotel stays in summer 2024.

The survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults, conducted online by The Harris Poll and commissioned by NerdWallet, asked those traveling this summer how they plan to save on trip expenses and whether they plan to rack up credit card debt on their vacation costs. Of those surveyed, 931 say they plan to take a trip that requires a flight or hotel stay this summer; they’ll be referred to as “summer travelers” throughout this report.

Key findings

One-fifth of summer travelers plan to go into debt for vacation: 1 in 5 summer travelers (20%) say they’ll use a credit card to pay for their travel expenses, but won’t pay off the balance within the first billing statement. Instead, they’ll carry over the balance, possibly racking up costly interest charges.

Travelers are taking steps to save: The majority of summer travelers (91%) are taking action to save money on their travel expenses, like driving instead of flying to their destination (42%). This is up since 2023 when 35% of summer travelers said this, perhaps due to falling gas prices over the past couple of years.

Some nontravelers are opting out due to inflation: Of Americans who say they aren’t taking a summer vacation that requires a flight or hotel stay this year, more than 1 in 5 (22%) say it’s because inflation has made travel too expensive. Last year, 23% of non-summer travelers said this, suggesting that the high inflation of 2022 is still weighing on consumers.

Events are taking some out of town this summer: We asked Americans who are spending at least one night away from home this summer what they’re traveling for. Of them, 12% say they’ll travel for a concert, 8% for a wedding and 4% for a bachelor or bachelorette party.

“Millions of Americans are hitting the road this summer, with many opting to drive to their summer destinations, which may be a more affordable option than flying,” says Sally French, a NerdWallet travel expert and spokesperson. “But the high cost of travel due to inflation is still holding some back.”

Some going into debt to pay for summer travel

The majority of summer travelers (83%) plan to pay for at least part of their vacation expenses — airfare or hotel stays — with a credit card, but not all of them have plans to pay it off right away. According to the survey, 20% of summer travelers plan to use a credit card for these expenses but won’t pay off the expenses in full within the first billing statement.

The most recent data from the St. Louis Fed shows that average credit card interest on accounts assessing interest is 22.75%. To put that in perspective, for each $1,000 you carry on a credit card per year, that’s around $228 in interest.

Aim to reduce interest charges

There are still a few months before summer, so even if you’ve already charged some of your travel expenses, there’s still time to reduce those interest costs. Scour your budget to see where there’s room to cut back, and divert extra money toward paying off travel expenses already on your credit card or saving up the cash to pay those future credit card charges.

If it’s not possible to get interest down prior to your trip, and you aren’t considering changing your travel plans, figure out how you can pay the charges as quickly as possible. Credit card debt is some of the most expensive consumer debt you can carry, and the high interest rates can make it more challenging to pay off.

“To pay off debt faster and minimize interest charges, make a plan you can reasonably stick to,” French says. “If possible, bump up your monthly payments. Even a small increase, like rounding your payment up to the nearest hundred dollars, or taking money received as gifts or from side hustles and applying it to debt, can help.”

Travelers are taking action to save money on summer vacation

There are plenty of options for getting trip costs down, and most summer travelers (91%) are taking steps to do just that. The top two money-saving measures are driving instead of flying to their destination (42%) and choosing a hotel/motel/resort based on price instead of amenities (39%).

More than a third of summer travelers (35%) will use credit card points/miles to cover expenses. This can be a great option to save money and use up accumulated points that might otherwise lose value over time.

Assess points and make a plan to use them

It’s tempting to save up your travel rewards for your dream vacation. But if that’s not in the near future, it’s a good idea to look at the points and miles you have and use them sooner rather than later. Over time, rewards can become less valuable, so if you’re saving them for a nebulous future trip, you may get less bang for your point.

“NerdWallet recommends saving in most scenarios — but saving travel rewards points is not one of them,” French says. “Points inflation is very real. Unless you’re saving for a specific redemption, it’s generally best to spend them on travel you’d otherwise pay cash for now.”

If you’re looking to rack up points for next year’s summer vacation, you may want to look into travel rewards credit cards with sign-up bonuses . Credit cards can be a great tool to earn rewards that make travel cheaper, but only if you plan to pay them off by the due date. Carrying credit card debt for the points generally results in paying more in interest than you’re earning in rewards.

Some nontravelers cite inflation as a reason for staying home

2022 was a year of high inflation, and while the U.S. inflation rate is getting closer to the targeted 2%, the dramatic price increases are still having an impact on consumer spending. Among those who aren’t planning on taking a summer vacation that requires a flight or hotel stay, more than one-fifth (22%) say it’s because inflation has made travel too expensive. Nearly as many nontravelers (19%) say that inflation has made their other expenses too expensive, so they can’t afford to take a summer vacation.

Around 1 in 6 nontravelers (17%) are still planning on getting away this summer, just not in a way that requires a flight or hotel stay. We asked what sorts of events are taking Americans away from home for at least one night this summer.

Some are traveling for concerts, weddings this summer

The vast majority of Americans (88%) say they’ll spend at least one night away from home this summer, whether or not this trip requires a flight or hotel stay. For many, this means a vacation with others or solo, but some are also traveling to attend events, like a concert (12%) or wedding (8%).

A hefty 22% of Generation Zers (ages 18-27) plan to travel at least one night away from home this summer for a concert. Perhaps they’re making plans to attend a summer music festival, or maybe they’re jetting off to Europe for the ongoing Eras Tour .

Start saving for next year’s summer vacation plans

No matter what your travel plans are, it’s a good idea to save up in advance to avoid going into credit card debt. If you can estimate what next year’s travel expenses will cost you, you can use a savings goal calculator to determine how much you need to save each month. You can also earmark a windfall — like a tax refund — specifically for summer travel plans.

Methodology

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NerdWallet from Jan. 30 - Feb. 1, 2024, among 2,092 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, among whom 931 will take a vacation that requires a flight or hotel stay this summer. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact [email protected] .

Summer travel is defined as June, July and August 2024, for the purposes of this survey.

NerdWallet disclaims, expressly and impliedly, all warranties of any kind, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or whether the article’s information is accurate, reliable or free of errors. Use or reliance on this information is at your own risk, and its completeness and accuracy are not guaranteed. The contents in this article should not be relied upon or associated with the future performance of NerdWallet or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties as indicated by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” “should” or “anticipates” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may materially differ from NerdWallet’s presentation of information to analysts and its actual operational and financial results.

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Information about the Port of Baltimore

In response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse on the morning of March 26, 2024, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) provides the following information:

• The Port of Baltimore is among the top 20 ports in the United States by tonnage and number of containers handled, is 10th largest port for dry bulk, and is a major hub for the import and export of motorized vehicles.  
• As of 4pm on March 27, vessel tracking data show 3 bulk carriers, 2 general cargo ships, 1 vehicles carrier, 1 tanker, 4 Maritime Administration (MARAD) Ready Reserve Force vessels, and the container ship "DALI" behind the fallen bridge in the Baltimore harbor. There is 1 vehicles carrier in the port beyond the bridge. There are 9 bulk carriers, 1 vehicles carrier, and 2 general cargo vessels at anchorage beyond the bridge.  
• At least two cruise ships, one of which has a capacity of more than 2,000 passengers and more than 700 crew are scheduled to return to Baltimore. Many people will need to be reunited with their motor vehicles parked at the terminal in the harbor.  
• The Francis Scott Key Bridge carried 12.5 million vehicles in 2023, averaging more than 34,000 vehicles a day over the year. This is 15 percent of the total traffic for all 3 harbor crossings, and the diverted traffic would add 18 percent to the combined volumes for the Fort McHenry and Harbor Tunnels.  
• Trucks that carry hazardous cargo, which are not allowed in the I-95 and I-895 tunnels, and use I-695 to pass through the Baltimore region.  The shorter route on I-695 is over the Key Bridge and is 24.3 miles around the eastern and southern sides of Baltimore.  The longer route on I-695 is 27.5 miles around the northern and western sides of the Baltimore beltway rather than the 24.3 mile route around the eastern and southern sides of Baltimore and is more frequently congested. Population exposure is increased from over 38,000 people live within 1/2 mile of the shorter route to more than 100,000 people live within 1/2 mile of the longer route. The longer route is also more affected by peak period congestion.  
• Take a look at the port profile for Baltimore.  
• Explore the tabulations of the tonnage and value of commodities that move through the Port of Baltimore from the Freight Analysis Framework .

  Take a closer look at the map below .

Sources: Vessel location information is from the USDOT Volpe Center SeaVision system.  Vehicle counts are from the Maryland Transportation Authority FY 2024 Traffic and Toll Revenue Forecast Update, November 3, 2023.  The map, statistics on hazardous cargo routes, and tabulations of the Freight Analysis Framework are by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Francis Scott Key Bridge with departing roll-on roll-off ship just beyond the bridge, taken from Fort McHenry on October 9, 2022.

Source: Rolf Schmitt, Deputy Director, BTS

Remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge with container ship Dali, taken from Fort McHenry on March 30, 2024.

Solar eclipse 2024 expected to cause major traffic jams, possible flight delays

The Great North American Eclipse also may turn out to be the Great North American Traffic Jam.

That’s what federal agencies are warning, anyway, with millions of folks preparing to witness the astronomical phenomenon next Monday on the ground in the path of totality and in the sky aboard flights that they booked to get a better glimpse of the sun, or rather not to see the sun.

And there’s some history back up that its likely: It's what happened during the eclipse in 2017 .

How should Americans prepare for traffic jams?

To help prevent problems, the American Automobile Association offered some warnings and tips about driving during the eclipse. Most of them are common sense, like: Don’t drive and watch the eclipse at the same time, don’t drive with eclipse glasses on and avoid congested roads.

"Pack your patience,” Aixa Diaz, a spokesperson for AAA, told USA TODAY , adding that many folks are expected to be on the roads “whether traveling a great distance” or locally “out and about to catch a glimpse of the eclipse.”

What time is the solar eclipse? Search your ZIP code for a viewing guide.

A full tank of gas — or full electric charge — is a good idea, too.

The total solar eclipse is special because the geographical path in which it will be visible, running from Mazatlán, Mexico, to Channel-Port aux Basques, Canada, and through a small corner of Michigan, is a rare event.

Years of planning

Some of the people who want to see the eclipse ― considering it a once-in-a-lifetime event ― have been planning to do so for months, even years. The calculations for where the exact path will be is based on math and may vary slightly depending on whose numbers you use.

Of course, just like you learned as a kid, you shouldn't look at the sun directly. You'll need special dark glasses , which, aren't safe to wear while driving or walking around because they are so dark to protect your eyes form the sun's rays you can hardly see anything.

2024 solar eclipse: Where to get free eclipse glasses, how to know they're safe

The federal authorities, both the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration, have warned that there likely will be gridlock on the roads and air traffic delays at airports.

Depending on where you are in North America, the moment the sun goes dark varies . In Michigan, the eclipse is expected to start at about 2 p.m., and end at about 4:30 p.m. When the sun does dark, which, get this, is estimated to be at 3:13 p.m. in Michigan, expect the temperature to drop a few degrees.

It takes about 2½ hours for the moon to pass in front of the sun, gradually blotting it out and revealing it.

"While an estimated 32 million people live within the path of totality, millions more will travel to see the event firsthand," Shailen Bhatt, administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, said in a  video last month. "This rare event may be a once-in-a-lifetime for some but could have widespread impacts on the traveling public."

He urged planning ahead and staying put to avoid traffic congestion.

In 2017, the last time there was a total solar eclipse in America, congestion in some areas reportedly lasted up to 13 hours after the eclipse, according to Transportation Research News . An analysis of the traffic found the worst gridlock was just after the eclipse ended because everyone tried to leave at one time.

Construction in Luna Pier

In Luna Pier, one of the few Michigan cities where the total eclipse is expected to be visible, there’s an added problem.

The Interstate 75 overpass that visitors would use to enter and exit the city of about 1,400 people is under construction and closed until the summer, so, if there's too big a crowd, more than say, 1,000 people, in Luna Pier, officials there said it will clog the roadways and create a safety hazard.

As for those taking to the air, the FAA and Department of Transportation also have issued warnings.

More: Excitement for 2024 solar eclipse has been building for years in Luna Pier

The FAA noted that in early April people are heading to their favorite vacation destinations, while on top of that, “a significant number of travelers are heading to various states to witness  ‘The Great North American Eclipse’ ”

Flight delays

Airlines, like Delta, have added special, sold-out flights just for eclipse viewing.

"Travelers flying along the eclipse path may encounter limited parking and potential delays at airports due to the high volume of aircraft and drones attempting to witness the total solar eclipse," the agency said . "The FAA wants pilots to be aware of possible impacts to air traffic and airports along the eclipse path and is offering guidance to commercial planes and private aircraft ahead of their flights to witness the phenomenon."

On top of that, the transportation department issued similar warnings to pilots, urging them to be prepared for airborne holding patterns, rerouting and for aircraft departing airports along the eclipse path to coordinate their departure times as early as possible.

The key to making it through the day, the feds said, is to allow for extra time at the airport and " be patient ."  

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or [email protected].

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Credit Card Swipe Fees Are Going Down. Are Points Going With Them?

A new agreement by Visa and Mastercard to reduce fees charged to merchants may drain the lucrative rewards that grant free travel to many credit card users.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

On Tuesday, the largest credit card companies in the United States reached an agreement with merchants to reduce the so-called swipe fees retailers pay for accepting credit card payments, potentially saving the retailers $30 billion.

These fees also help fund the credit card rewards programs that many travelers redeem for things like free flights and hotel stays, leading points hawks to wonder: Are loyalty programs at risk?

Here’s what we know so far about the changes.

What are the terms of the deal?

Last year, credit card payments generated an estimated $72 billion in fees paid by merchants, which are generally passed along to customers in the form of higher prices. For nearly 20 years, merchants have been seeking reductions in the fees they pay Visa and Mastercard for handling transactions where the cards are used.

The proposed settlement , awaiting approval in a federal court, reduces and caps those fees for five years. It would also allow merchants to potentially charge consumers more based on the card they pay with. For example, a person paying with a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which costs $550 a year, could be charged more than someone paying with the more basic Chase Sapphire Preferred card, with an annual fee of $95.

Why does it matter?

The majority of the fees collected go back to the banks that issue the credit cards. Those banks have used the funds to push premium credit cards that offer loyalty points, which can be redeemed for free travel and other perks. The cards with the biggest benefits tend to be those that charge higher swipe fees.

While the reduction in the fees collected sounds small — averaging at least .07 percent — they represent an estimated $30 billion over the five-year term of the deal, which banks could try to make up by reducing points perks.

“It’s reasonable to think that,” said Brian Kelly, the founder of the Points Guy , a news site devoted to maximizing credit card points.

While he speculated that banks will be able to “find other ways to make up the difference,” he acknowledged that a points squeeze could emerge.

“Opportunities to earn probably aren’t going to flourish,” he said.

The idea that merchants could charge more to the holders of premium, perks-rich cards, which are expensive, might also deter consumers from using them. Some experts question the viability of the practice given the potential for consumer backlash.

Is the new agreement related to the Credit Card Competition Act?

The legal actions that led to the new credit card agreement date back to 2005. But the newer Credit Card Competition Act , proposed in 2023, aims to introduce more competition in the credit card payment system. By creating a cheaper alternative pipeline for processing payments, the proposed legislation is seen as a greater threat to rewards programs.

Responding to the just-announced agreement between the credit card companies and retailers, Senator Dick Durbin, Democrat of Illinois, and the lead sponsor of the Credit Card Competition Act, released a statement urging the act’s passage.

“I fear that this deal only provides temporary concessions negotiated by a few lawyers behind closed doors,” he said in the statement.

Other experts said the agreement may ease the pressure on Congress to pass the act.

“I think it’s a way for Visa and Mastercard to show that they are making a good-faith effort to help out merchants by lowering the fees they’ve been complaining about for 20 years, and hopefully enough to let senators know they’re doing their part,” said Chris Hassan, the social media and brand manager for Upgraded Points , a website that tracks credit card benefits.

Separately, the proposed merger between Capital One and Discover, which is pending federal approval, could introduce more competition among credit cards and potentially improve rewards for holders of those cards.

What should I do now?

The points and payments systems won’t change until the agreement is approved, which is expected in late 2024 or early 2025, according to a news release from Mastercard.

But the topic should remind travelers of the reality of playing with points: The rules always change. Values tend to fall as redemption levels rise, which companies issuing these currencies are free to adjust at will.

If you have points, spend them, say experts like Sara Rathner, a travel and credit card specialist at the financial website NerdWallet . “They’re not a trophy to dust and admire.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Updates Regarding the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse in Baltimore, MD

Francis scott key bridge news and updates.

At approximately 1:30 a.m. ET on March 26, 2024, a cargo ship leaving the Port of Baltimore in Baltimore, MD struck the (I-695) Francis Scott Key Bridge. This caused a collapse of the bridge. Please continue to check this page regularly for related updates affecting commercial motor vehicles, including traffic alerts and emergency declarations.

Transportation Routing for Commercial Motor Vehicles

The  Maryland Transportation Department  has the most up-to-date traffic alerts and information regarding transportation routes and detours in and around Baltimore, MD. If you are traveling through Virginia, please visit the  Virginia Department of Transportation  website for updates.

Transportation Routing for Commercial Motor Vehicles - Hazardous Materials

The  Maryland Transportation Department  has the most up-to-date traffic alerts and information regarding transportation routes and detours for commercial motor vehicles transporting hazardous materials in and around Baltimore, MD.   If you are traveling through Virginia, please visit the  Virginia Department of Transportation  website for updates.

Port of Baltimore

As of March 28, 2024, the Port of Baltimore remains open for truck transactions. Vessel (waterway) traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice.

Emergency Declarations

March 26, 2024:  Maryland Executive Order 01.01.2024.09  (expires April 8, 2024)  (See FAQ below for effect on CMV transportation.)

Social Media

• twitter.com/TheMDTA
• twitter.com/MDOTNews
• twitter.com/vadot

Frequently Asked Questions

• The state of Maryland issued an Emergency Declaration on March 26, 2024, as a result of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Does this declaration affect me as a commercial motor vehicle driver? The emergency declaration issued by Governor Moore automatically triggered emergency relief from Federal hours-of-service requirements in 49 CFR §§ 395.3 and 395.5 for motor carriers and drivers  providing direct assistance to emergency relief efforts  due to the bridge collapse. The relief applies regardless of the motor carrier or origin of the trip, so long as the carrier or driver are providing direct assistance. Direct assistance includes transportation and other relief services provided by a motor carrier or driver related to the immediate restoration of essential services or essential supplies.  Examples of direct assistance include transportation of heavy equipment and personnel into the area and removal of debris to assist state and local emergency efforts reopen the Port of Baltimore and the waterway impacted by the bridge collapse.    
• Does the emergency relief from Federal hours-of-service regulations due to the state of Maryland’s Emergency Declaration apply to motor carriers and commercial motor vehicle drivers who are NOT directly supporting emergency response efforts but whose operations have been impacted by the bridge collapse? No. The relief from Federal hours-of-service regulations does not apply to motor carriers and drivers who are not providing direct assistance to emergency response efforts.  The state emergency declaration does not trigger emergency regulatory relief from Federal regulations for motor carriers and drivers whose motor carrier operations are impacted by rerouting or delays due to the unavailability of the Francis Scott Key Bridge or the partial shutdown of the Port of Baltimore.  
• Does the emergency relief from Federal regulations provide commercial vehicle drivers with relief from Federal hours-of-service requirements? Yes. The state emergency declaration automatically triggered relief from 49 CFR §§ 395.3 and 395.5 for motor carriers and drivers  providing direct assistance  supplementing state and local emergency response efforts and capabilities.   
• Does emergency relief from Federal regulations due to the state of Maryland’s Emergency Declaration provide commercial vehicle drivers with relief from electronic logging device (ELD) requirements? No. The state emergency declaration does not result in relief from Federal ELD requirements.   
• How long will the relief from Federal hours-of-service regulations be in effect? The relief from 49 CFR §§ 395.3 and 395.5 is limited to the period of the emergency up to a maximum period of 14 days from the date of the initial declaration of emergency. The relief from Federal hours-of-service regulations (for motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance to emergency relief efforts due to the bridge collapse) is effective from March 26, 2024, until the end of the emergency or April 8, 2024, whichever is earlier.  (as of March 28, 2024)  
• Can FMCSA extend the emergency relief from Federal regulations beyond the 14-day limit? Yes. FMCSA may extend the period of regulatory relief. Interested parties, including the state, motor carriers, and drivers, may request an extension by explaining why the extension is needed in an email to FMCSA’s emergency declarations mailbox at  [email protected] .   
• Are there any options for motor carriers and drivers whose operations have been impacted by the bridge collapse to request regulatory relief from Federal hours-of-service regulations? Yes. Motor carriers and drivers may request a waiver or exemption from certain Federal motor carrier regulations, such as the Federal hours-of-service regulations and electronic logging device requirements. The procedure for requesting waivers and exemptions can be found in Subpart B of 49 CFR Part 381 . Waivers are limited in duration to three months. Exemptions may be issued for up to five years. The request must be sent to the Acting Deputy Administrator via email to [email protected] or by traditional mail to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE., Washington, DC 20590–0001. Requests should include information such as why the waiver or exemption is needed, how many drivers or vehicles will be operating under the waiver or exemption, and an explanation of how you will ensure the equivalent level of safety is met as provided by complying with the existing regulations. Please refer to  the regulation  for specific requirements.    
• Are there specific routes in place for the transportation of hazardous materials and restricted loads? Yes. Please visit the  Maryland Transportation Department  website for guidance. If your route takes you through Virginia, you may wish to visit   Virginia Department of Transportation .  
• I’m scheduled to transport a very wide load; how will I be impacted? Please visit the  Maryland Transportation Department  website for height and width restrictions for the Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry Tunnels as well as other roadways. If your route takes you through Virginia, you may wish to verify height and width restrictions for Virginia roadways by visiting the  Virginia Department of Transportation .  
• Where can I find general information for commercial motor vehicle routing and detours? Please visit the  Maryland Transportation Department  for up-to-date information regarding traffic alerts and routing information. You can also follow the agency on social media at  twitter.com/TheMDTA  and  twitter.com/MDOTNews . If you are traveling through Virginia, you may wish to follow the  Virginia Department of Transportation  at  twitter.com/vadot .

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Solar eclipse 2024: Here's why you don't want to be on the road during April 8 eclipse

We know you've heard this many times, but it must be said often and strongly: do not look at the sun on april 8 (or any other day, for that matter) without certified glasses..

Editor's note: The information below was taken from a longer column written by Dr. David Rogers, Dr. Julia Stokes, Dr. Ryan Squier and Dr. Aaron Zimmerman and submitted by the Central Ohio Hospital Council . Find that column here .

Driving during the April 8 solar eclipse is expected to come with unique risk.

It’s not a concern that most people think of, but Ohio’s expecting an influx of between 100,000 and 500,000 visitors from other states on April 8. They, and thousands of citizens from southern and eastern parts of our state, are expected to converge on the areas that will experience partial and total darkness.

States in the path of past solar eclipses saw major traffic congestion and more than the usual number of traffic accidents and distracted-driver incidents in the days before, during and after the event. In Ohio counties where the eclipse will be viewable, public officials and hospital emergency departments, including ours in Franklin County (in partial totality), are preparing for the same.

Spectacular and dangerous. How to safely enjoy 2024 solar eclipse.

If you’re in one of the full or partial totality counties (see the map on the Ohio Emergency Management website; link below), our advice is to stay home between noon and 5 p.m. on April 8.

Run your errands early in the day or, better yet, in the days before. Traffic in totality areas – even partial totality – will be busy, and drivers will be distracted, especially between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. on April 8.

If you plan to drive to an event, plan to arrive early and stay late to reduce your time sitting in traffic. Don’t wear eclipse glasses while driving; you can’t see much while wearing them.

That’s a good thing when looking at the sun; not so for driving and other activities.

Stay alert in crowds on eclipse day

There are many large gatherings planned in central Ohio and throughout the state on eclipse day.

If you’ll be at one, keep a close eye on children and pets and be sure they have identification on them. This will be at least a 3-or-4-hour event. Arrive early and take enough sunscreen, bug spray, water and snacks. Dress for the weather.

If it’s a private event, watch out for people drinking alcohol or using mind-altering substances. Their judgment will be impaired, and they may attempt risky behavior, including staring at the sun without protection.

There will be a lot of down time over the length of the eclipse, so plan how you’ll occupy your time, and know that you won’t be wearing your ISO-certified glasses every minute. Keep this in mind, if you too plan to partake.

As health professionals, we advise you not to, especially if you’re with children.

Solar eclipse 2024 in Ohio: Best places to be dazzled by the sun April 8

As for us, we’re planning to experience this event with family, friends, or co-workers, and we have our viewing glasses ready. Several of us have seen total solar eclipses in other parts of the country, and they were amazing.

Like touching boiling water. April 8 solar eclipse can leave you blind or without color

If you can’t get outside to see it, or you would rather watch it in the comfort of your home, tune in to NASA’s live telecast online at plus.nasa.gov starting at 1 p.m. April 8.

We hope you enjoy every minute, and we wish all of you clear skies on April 8.

Where to find more information

• Ohio Emergency Management : ema.ohio.gov . Ohio’s main information and reference website for the 2024 eclipse. Learn about the path of the eclipse through Ohio, get safety and planning advice, as well as links to other organizations involved in eclipse activities, parking dos and don’ts, and more.
• American Astronomical Society: Find numerous features here, including a list of approved vendors for eclipse glasses on the Eye Safety page. Remember, these glasses are absolutely necessary if you look directly at the sun. Get yours free at a local library or order them from a reputable vendor now! Don’t delay. See eclipse.aas.org/eclipse-america-2024
• NASA Plus Live Telecast : If it’s cloudy where you are, or you can’t get outside, watch the eclipse online thanks to NASA satellites and land centers. Watch at plus.nasa.gov starting at 1 p.m.

Dr. David Rogers is chief of Nationwide Children’s Hospital's Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology. Dr. Julia Stokes is a Mount Carmel Medical Group Grove City Family Health family practice physician. Dr. Ryan Squier is associate medical director at the OhioHealth New Albany Emergency Department. Dr. Aaron Zimmerman is a clinical professor at the Ohio State University College of Optometry .