What It’s Like to Ride in Uber’s Driverless Cars

When Billy Joel sang about a “New York State of Mind” he was talking about going home to the Big Apple.

Autonomous cars have come a long way since Google's self-driving car project started back in 2009. 

Airlines are pushing boundaries to connect far-flung global cities every year. The longest flight in the world, currently flown by Singapore Airlines, is proof. For travelers who want to visit loved ones—not to mention frequent fliers looking for new ways to earn and burn miles and points—this 19-hour journey from John F. Kennedy is a gem in the crown of ultra-long-haul travel. But even in first and business class, the prospect of such a long journey can be daunting. 

I've had the luxury of sitting underneath glass-dome windows as my Rocky Mountaineer train barreled between Colorado's mountains.

While its success is based principally on attractive pricing and ease of use, Uber’s business model critically depends on a ready supply of available and motivated workers. While there’s no sign that the supply of potential drivers is drying up, yet, the enthusiasm of Uber drivers seems to be eroding.

Since the rideshare service’s beginning, Uber has featured its drivers as a key element in its self-promotion. From the company’s website:

Beginning today, many visitors to Disney theme parks will pay more for the privilege of posing for selfies with Mickey & Co. But some will pay less. And others will pay a so-called regular rate, that is actually a price increase. Yes, it’s complicated.

I’ve always wondered what it would be like to be able to sleep on command. As a frequent traveler, passing out at the exact moment I’d like to is easily the one super power I would pick if had the chance.

Still haven’t booked a vacation, or curious about what other travelers are doing this summer? Synchrony Financial put together some initial data together on summer 2016’s travel forecast that might help.

First-class seats aren’t exactly meant for the average leisure traveler. Their expensive perks (unlimited drinks, hot towels, lie-flat seats) aren’t must-haves for most people. But what happens when a low-cost U.S. airline adopts their own first-class experience? I tried flying JetBlue Mint to find out.

Sir Richard Branson’s latest trending project isn’t galactic space travel, it’s hotels. The 66-year old mogul has dabbled in the hospitality industry before with his Virgin Limited Edition business, but now he’s bringing the Virgin brand stateside with a handful of Virgin Hotel properties. The first of these is Virgin Hotels Chicago, which I was able to experience in person on a recent trip to Chicago.

Whether you’re arriving at an airport for the first time or at one that’s familiar, you may not know the lowest-cost way to get to your in-town destination. Even if you thought you knew, developments in ride-sharing regulations can change your best airport transportation options quickly, and without announcement.