Despite rising airfares, there are plenty of last-minute deals for a European summer getaway. JetBlue recently announced the «Overseas the Day» fare sale, which provides discounted fares to Europe for as low as $299 one-way from either Boston Logan International Airport or New York's JFK Airport. Best of all, the fare sale includes discounts on JetBlue's highly beloved Mint cabin, which is the airline’s version of business class and includes a lie-flat bed and additional amenities. Travelers can purchase deals including one-way flights to Dublin, Ireland for as low as $299 in Main Cabin or $1,299 in Mint. Those looking to explore the United Kingdom can fly to London-Gatwick Airport for $379 in Main Cabin or $1,299 in Mint. The airline is also offering discounted one-way fares to Paris for $379 in Main Cabin or $1,299 in Mint. The fare sale ends on July 20, 2024 at 11:59 PM, EST, for travel from July 28 through September 30. The airline advises that some days may not be available due to capacity or restricted travel dates. As a price comparison, during a non-sale period, a one-way JFK to LGW flight can cost as much as $1,138 in Main Cabin or $2,233 in Mint, based on pricing from JetBlue's website. While the Mint cabin provides tons of amenities, passengers in the Main Cabin are treated with extra legroom, and a 10" TV that has a variety of power ports including USB-A, USB-C, and AC (standard outlet). Passengers in the Main Cabin also get a complimentary blanket, and a curated menu from New York's Dig restaurant chain. JetBlue has been on the move with enhancements to help passengers during a busy summer travel season. The airline recently updated its baggage policy for basic economy, by allowing passengers to bring a free carry-on. The airline also introduced new service to Dublin and Edinburgh.
Oslo could become a top travel destination after an unconventional but hilarious tourism ad goes viral
30.06.2024 - 10:39 / insider.com
Don't visit Oslo. That's what the city's new tongue-in-cheek marketing campaign declares.
VisitOSLO, the official marketing agency for Norway's capitol, debuted the ad last week. The video follows a 31-year-old resident named Halfdan, played by Bendik Aunan, who doesn't understand why anyone would want to visit Oslo.
"I mean, is it even a city?" he asks.
Halfdan takes audiences on a tour of Oslo while remaining thoroughly unimpressed by the city's walkability, quality of service, accessibility, and gorgeous landscapes.
Despite Halfdan's lukewarm feelings about his hometown, the ad has quickly amassed millions of views and sent Oslo to the top of travelers' bucket lists. Some people have praised the ad's dry and somewhat self-deprecating humor on social media.
Anne-Signe Fagereng, the agency's marketing manager, said in a press release that they knew using "typical Norwegian self-irony" would be risky, especially in a global market.
"Oslo has in recent years emerged as a truly exciting destination but is probably still a well-kept secret for many," she said.
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She added: "The inspiration for the ad is Oslo's position as an underdog as far as city break destinations go – both in Europe and in the Nordics. However, Oslo has been through an incredibly positive transformation over the last few decades, so it's time our confidence in our capital catches up with reality."
Richie Karaburun, a clinical associate professor at NYU's Center of Hospitality and Tourism, said the ad's success lies in its authenticity and storytelling.
Unlike other tourism ads that show sun-kissed beaches and flashy attractions, VisitOslo's video prioritized the city's understated local charms with witty humor. Instead of unnamed glossy models, audiences meet Halfdan and his reluctant attitude.
"You need to create an emotional connection between your visitors and your destination. That resonates," he said.
Karaburun, who visited Oslo with his family last summer, added that travelers are craving that emotional connection when they book vacations. Some travelers have begun shunning traditional tourist traps for smaller, less crowded destinations that offer a glimpse into local communities.
Oslo could thrive with this type of traveler. The ad suggested so when Halfdan compares Oslo to Paris, Istanbul, and New York City.
"I think it is going to have a huge impact on Oslo's branding," Karaburun said of the ad. "Hopefully, it will impact the numbers because, at the end, it's all about the increased visitation numbers."
Karaburun said that if Oslo continues to attract travelers with unique ads, the city could emerge as a coveted destination.
"If they keep on doing these very creative destination marketing ads, I think
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