Airport Blogs & Travel Insight
The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) has been serving passengers since 1947. The airport welcomed more than 8.7 million passengers in 2023 representing a 15.4% increase over 2022. CVG offers the lowest airfares in the region and 50+ nonstop destinations with 14 airlines. As the 6th largest cargo airport in North America and home to the Amazon Air Hub and DHL Express Global Superhub, CVG is diversified in both passenger and cargo operations. With an annual impact of $9.3 billion (2022) on the local economy, the airport drives regional growth and remains a leader in innovation.
Capitalizing on over 77 years of commercial airport expertise and a wide range of resources and thought leadership within the organization, CVG offers two blog channels.
On the Horizon
On the Horizon blog serves up the latest stories and news from CVG Airport. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, have a vested interest in the airport or just love to travel, you’re invited to follow along to learn and engage with CVG.
Jet with Jay
Join Jay Kruz, DJ at Mix 94.9 in Cincinnati, for his non-stop flight adventures from CVG Airport to destinations all around the world. Jet with Jay will tour you around great destinations while providing inspiration on seamless travel and getting to cool places on a budget!
- Mar 18, 2024
Say “Oui!” to Picture Perfect Paris (and beyond!)
Hi there, Eiffel Tower!All eyes will be on Paris this summer as the [2024 Summer Olympics](https://olympics.com/en/olympic-games/paris-2024) make their way to The City of Light.If you’re planning a trip to cheer on swimmers in the Seine River or watch volleyball with a view of the Eiffel Tower, I want to help!Paris is one of the most famous European destinations from CVG and with good reason. It’s easy to get to (with even more flights being added later this year), easy to navigate even if you don’t speak French, and offers a chance to visit some of the most famous spots in the world. The perfect start to a day in Paris.The Eiffel Tower… and much more!Any first-time visit to Paris will probably include visiting the city’s most iconic landmark. At over 1,000 feet high, the real Eiffel Tower is three times bigger than the one at Kings Island. There are also multiple ways to ascend to the viewing platform at the top. If you want to save a few bucks and are physically able to, you can climb the 674 steps from the ground to the “second floor.” The climb to the top takes a little extra time but offers unique views.It makes for a pretty cool experience: fewer people, a chance to pause and enjoy the view on the way up, and the opportunity to appreciate the intricate design of the Tower. You can also take an elevator from the ground to the top. We decided to visit at sunset and enjoyed a daytime and nighttime view.A stunning view from the Eiffel Tower.There are plenty of famous places to check out. Make sure to grab a ticket in advance for The Louvre. Originally a 12th-Century fortress, it is the most visited art museum in the world. And for good reason. It houses some of the most iconic works of art, including the Mona Lisa, Venus De Milo, and The Raft of the Medusa.A perfect activity for a brisk, cloudy morning.We chose the very first time slot and immediately made our way to the Mona Lisa, then the Venus De Milo. This allowed us to view both works before the massive crowds moved in.(Left) All alone with the Mona Lisa. (Right) The façade of The Louvre.Make sure to allow plenty of time to see as much as you can; it’s a huge space with thousands of pieces on display. About five years ago, a massive fire heavily damaged one of the world’s most famous examples of French Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral. Since then, over 1,000 people have worked tirelessly to restore the 860year-old building to its former glory. The building is scheduled to reopen to the public this December, but the exterior can be viewed anytime. The Notre-Dame de Paris (before the fire of 2019)If you have time, try strolling by during the day and again at night to truly appreciate its beauty. Continue walking along the Seine River to appreciate the beauty of Parisian homes and neighborhoods. Stop into a cafe for a bite to eat or a pastry (just don’t eat while using public transportation).A cloudy day along the Seine RiverOther stops on your trip might include the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Moulin Rouge, Musee d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Elysees. I recommend checking out the TripAdvisor top things to visit page here to decide what you’d like to do before arriving. Paris is a perfect destination any time of year.The city makes a great vacation choice for anyone, whether it be a honeymoon, a couples getaway, family trip, an excursion for a solo traveler, or just a last-minute escape. As the seasons change, so do the events and things to see around town. A bustling street in the cityJanuary through early March offer great value. Flights are cheaper, accommodations are plentiful, and tourist attractions have shorter lines. Spring break sees an increase in tourism as families look to visit while their kids are out of school, and the number of visitors continues to increase into summer. July is generally the busiest month for tourists. August is busy, too.Summertime is magicalLonger days and nicer weather attract visitors from around the world. Prices will be a bit higher, and you’ll want to book hotels and attractions well in advance. The Pantheon Dome during Christmas 2019When September rolls around, so do the deals. The crowds thin, and the weather is still nice. Christmas in Paris is beautiful with decorations and markets to visit around town. A Christmas market with Notre Dame in the backgroundParis makes a great “home base” to explore France.Thanks to an excellent public transportation system, including high-speed trains, Paris is a great place to begin or wrap up a trip around France.Hello, Lyon!Take a two-hour train ride south and experience the city of Lyon. We really enjoyed it. It’s a big city but has sort of a smaller town feel than Paris. (Kind of like Cincinnati!) A trip in November was perfect for us; the weather was comfortable, the crowds were small, and we were able to see some remaining fall colors while the Christmas markets were gearing up.A beautiful view along the Rhone River in LyonContinue just another hour south by train, and you’ll experience the magnificent medieval town of Avignon. I can’t say enough about this incredible gem in the Provence region of France. The town looks like a fairytale around every corner, complete with a 14th-century papal palace appropriately named the [Palais des Papes.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palais_des_Papes)Avignon is gorgeousThe city has a beautiful river, excellent cafes and shops, and friendly people. We booked a small group tour of the Provence area, which ended up being a private tour with an excellent guide because it was the low season. The views, history, and tastes of the region are unlike anything else. The Provence region in late fall was perfectAccommodations are easy to come by and are more affordable than larger cities like Paris. Much like any European city, expect smaller, cozier hotel rooms. Bonus: terraces!We’re all about a good terrace!Paris is easy to get to from CVG!I’ve often mentioned my favorite flight from CVG is Delta’s non-stop service to Paris. And it still is! Here’s why.- It’s currently offered three times per week, and beginning May 23, 2024, it will be offered seven days a week.- It leaves at 6:05 pm, which can save you valuable vacation time. Work pretty much a full day, head to the airport, hop on board, and enjoy dinner shortly after takeoff. After dinner, pop on your eye mask and headphones, get some sleep, and wake up around 8:00 am Paris time, ready to greet the city!- You can often find a great deal on this flight during off-peak times or by booking ahead. One-stop flights are offered daily on American, United, Delta, and Air Canada as well.The architecture of The Louvre is beautiful.Planning on traveling to Paris during the Olympic Games?Awesome! It will be an incredible experience in a world-class city. Here are a few things I’d recommend.- Book your flights now. Or better yet, yesterday. If you’re having difficulty finding flights, try flying into London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, or other nearby cities, and book a short flight from there.- Book your accommodations now. (Again, yesterday would have been better.) Paris can get pricey during the summer months. Add in a major event like this, and finding a place can be challenging. Consider looking outside of the main core of the city and in an area with good public transit access to get you into the city. There will also be competition [venues](https://www.paris2024.org/en/competition-venue-concept/) throughout the Paris region—and all of France—so figure out what interests you most and plan accordingly.- Beware of ticket deals that seem too good to be true. Make sure to purchase tickets directly from trusted sources.Keep an eye on the [Jay’s Deals](https://jetwithjay.cvgairport.com/jays-deals/) page for a great deal on your next flight. We love visiting Europe and sharing our adventures at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and X ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial)). I’ll see you in a cafe in Paris this summer!-JayLearn more - Mar 4, 2024
Women in aviation: meet the women of CVG’s police force
If you were one of the 8.7 million passengers who made your way through CVG Airport in 2023, you likely walked or drove (let’s hope you didn’t speed) by one of the airport’s police officers. You could have passed Officer Jeannine Nocero, who is often patrolling the concourses, or perhaps you saw a K-9 officer team supervised by Lieutenant (Lt.) Christy Strucke, or spotted a member of the ramp security escort service supervised by Lt. Emily Ritter. All three women took a break from their busy days protecting the public to discuss their roles at the airport.What inspired you to become an officer at CVG?Officer Nocero: I was interested in getting into law enforcement when I was younger, but I never had the opportunity to bring that interest to fruition. Then in 2019, I was working for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and I met a former female Airport Police Department (APD) officer. I told her how I was thinking of getting into law enforcement, and she took me under her wing. I also have a daughter for whom I want to make sure I am a role model. I want to instill in her that it is never too late to pursue your passion in life and that she can do anything she desires if she has the heart and is willing to put in the work.Photo of Officer Nocero from a 2023 training exercise.What do your typical days look like? What are your main responsibilities? Lt. Ritter: As the Special Operations Section Commander, I’m typically in the office. My more exciting days include department training days on the range, or on the mat (fun fact, I was a certified women’s self-defense instructor), or in the cruiser.Photo of Lt. Ritter conducting a self-defense course.In addition, I recently became certified as an airport security coordinator for CVG, and I was elected president of the Northern Kentucky Police Chiefs Association in January. I am a committee member of the Northern Kentucky Police and Sheriff’s Training Center, a Kentucky Law Enforcement Council certified police training academy, and I am undergoing an airport management certification program.Lt. Strucke: I’ve worked at APD for 14 years. My current rank is Lieutenant, and my role is Patrol Commander. As Patrol Commander, I am responsible for all the patrol officers, as well as the explosive detection K-9 teams. If staffing minimums are not met, I step in and help the patrol officers. In addition, I am an airport security coordinator for CVG.Photo of airport police officers. Lt. Strucke is second from the right.Officer Nocero: I could be on the ramp, in the concourses, or in various places around campus. My main responsibilities are to ensure public safety, enforce laws and regulations, conduct patrols, respond to emergencies, conduct investigations, collaborate with airport security personnel, and provide assistance to travelers.What would you say to a woman who is interested in becoming an officer at CVG?Lt. Strucke: I’d highly encourage them to apply. It’s a tough path, but so satisfying. Many women think you can’t achieve work/life balance in law enforcement, but that isn’t the case. While challenging, I still feel a lot of support from CVG as a female officer and a mother.Lt. Ritter: Women have something special to offer this career field, but for all those wanting to do this job, you must earn the badge. Be someone worth trusting and control what you can: your effort and your attitude. Put in the effort to physically prepare for the stresses of the job, and exceed the established fitness standards.Any stories you’d like to tell? Lt. Ritter: The first time I applied to become a police officer, I failed my fitness test and was removed from the hiring process. I failed the first event: the bench press. I knew law enforcement was my calling and had no plans of giving up. Being at Eastern Kentucky University, I was able to seek out and train with someone familiar with the police academy test protocols. I improved on the bench press and push-ups, so when the test was offered again a few weeks later, I was ready. This experience is why I encourage any woman who expresses interest in law enforcement to begin training early and maintain that drive for fitness throughout their career.Photo of Lt. Strucke talking with another airport police officer.Anything else you’d like to share? Officer Nocero: Successful female role models within the CVG Airport Police Department give us opportunities to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in law enforcement and can help attract more women to pursue careers in this field.If you're interested in learning more about job openings within the Airport Police Department, email hrinfo@cvgairport.com.Learn more - Feb 28, 2024
Books are flying off the shelves at CVG Airport
You can read for free at CVG. The Airport Library in Concourse B is getting stocked with more than 1,000 donated books ahead of the spring break travel season. This is the biggest haul since the library opened to travelers in the summer of 2023, with nearly 330 adult books and 720 children/teen books.To keep it simple and convenient for passengers, a library card is not required to check a book out of the library. When a reader is finished with a book, they can pass it on to another passenger, bring it back to the Airport Library as they make their way through CVG, or drop it off at a partnering library: Kenton County Public Library, Boone County Public Library, Campbell County Public Library, or the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library.The Airport Library is always accepting book donations of all genres, particularly fiction, adult and children, and nonfiction, such as biographies. If you have literature you’d like to give to the library, you can drop it off at the location in Concourse B or at one of the libraries mentioned above. Dictionaries, yearbooks, and encyclopedias are not accepted but can be donated to the [Friends of the Library](https://www.kentonlibrary.org/about-us/friends/).Planning a trip? [Check out one of these books from the library.](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/list/share/2010838009_kcpljanice/2475742299_your_first_stop_to_getaway)CVG recommends:- ["National Geographic Bucket List Family Travel"](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S184C1013951)- ["The Time Traveler's Wife"](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S184C746250)- ["Oliver Twist"](https://kentonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S184C985574)Want the "CliffNotes" of the Airport Library? [Watch a short video walkthrough](https://youtube.com/shorts/9ryQ6hATO1U?si=OuNOojXTLuTrjthk).Learn more - Feb 13, 2024
This Guy Visited Every Country on Earth...Then Started His Own
Randy Williams in Mauritania (Photo: Randy Williams)One of the questions I’m often asked is, “Where do you want to go next?” Usually, my answer is: “wherever the latest flight deal takes me!” Much like you, I have a travel bucket list—the often far-flung places we want to visit but for whatever reason, just haven’t made it there yet. But what if your travel bucket list became something different? Meet Randy “R-Dub!” Williams. He’s the host of the nationally syndicated [Sunday Night Slow Jams](https://slowjams.com/) program heard on radio stations around the world. If that sounds familiar, it might be because you’ve seen him on Shark Tank. But it’s not just a cool job that makes Randy unique: he has set foot in every single country in the world.Yep.All 193 of them.So, I caught up with Randy to find out how on Earth he pulled this off.Indonesia (Photo: Randy Williams)Jay: What part of the world are you in right now?Randy: At the moment, I'm actually home - which surprises many! I'm lucky enough to live and work in one of the world's most beautiful and temperate cities: San Diego! How lucky am I? As much as I love to travel and explore new places, I'm sincere when I say I enjoy coming home from a trip just as much as leaving for one. Vanuatu (Photo: Randy Williams)When were you first bitten by the travel bug?It didn't happen all at once but was instead a culmination of a few different things that led to me developing a completely unhealthy and ridiculous obsession with travel.I took my first solo trip when I was just 26 years old. My best friend and I planned a trip to Brazil, and after he canceled on me two years in a row, I decided just to go myself. I wasn't getting any younger and decided to just go for it. Boy, was I scared! Would this be like going to Disneyland by yourself? Well, those ten days in Brazil would go down as some of the very best days of my entire life. I found myself in literal tears when I was at the airport in Rio about to board my plane home. How could a country have so much impact on me? How could I have fallen in love with a geographical "place" and have feelings for a country the way I would for a woman? How is that even possible? I'd never felt such emotions about a "location." That first trip was life changing.Randy in Brazil (Photo: Randy Williams)But the very first bite from the travel bug probably started, in a way, when I was a young boy. I grew up in a pretty sheltered, middle-class suburb of Los Angeles. I remember, in fifth grade, "stowing" away with some of my friends who were "bussed-in" from the inner cities. Leaving my quiet and smallish town to spend the night at my friends' house in East L.A. or Highland Park…well, that was just an entirely different world for me. It might have only been 20 miles away from home, but it was a completely different country for all intents and purposes. I was out of my comfort zone, and yes, it was even a little scary for an 11-year-old, but I loved it. It excited me. I loved the thrill of being immersed in something so different. I guess from a young age, I've always felt the need to explore and even go to places I maybe "shouldn't" - I was 12 when I figured out the city's public transportation system, and I was on the move! Today, my most pleasurable trips are to places "regular people" don't go to. I enjoy being the only American, and sometimes, the only tourist, in general, walking around a random neighborhood in a country most of my friends have never heard of.Malawi (Photo: Randy Williams)When did you first set your sights on visiting every country on Earth? What made you set that goal?It wasn't until about ten years ago that I took on the crazy challenge of seeing every country on the planet. I had less than two weeks in Europe and decided to try hitting as many countries as possible during this one trip. I sailed through seven new countries and loved it! The thrill of seeing so many different places and experiencing so many varying cultures in a short amount of time was addicting. I remember thinking, "Wait a minute - I just saw seven countries in less than two weeks...if I just keep repeating this process each time I take a vacation, surely I can see every country in the world!"Of course, it doesn't work that way; those European countries are so easy to see all at once due to their size, proximity to each other, and transportation options. I had no idea how hard it would be to traverse the spread-out and tough-to-travel-to regions like Africa and the Pacific!But it was too late - I'd already made up my mind.A visit to Algeria (Photo: Randy Williams)How long did it take you to visit all of them?I am 46 years old, and I finished earlier this year, so you can say it took 46 years to see every country in the world! But if you want to get specific, my first challenge was to see all of Central and South America by the time I turned 40, and I did, right before the buzzer. It was really the last six years that I stepped on the gas and challenged myself to complete all 193.Across how many trips?There are too many to count, and I really have no clue! But over the last few years, my average trip would last around two weeks, where I'd see anywhere from three to ten-plus countries each trip.Lebanon (Photo: Randy Williams)Now, traveling the world isn’t your full-time job. You’re also in the radio industry. How do you manage to get so much time off to travel?Full disclosure: I'm not married and have no kids, so that opens a ton more time and options out of the gate.As far as the job, I've worked at my company for more than ten years, opening up the sought-after "four weeks" of vacation benefit. Add to that, I've negotiated extra vacation. If you add the 12 company holidays and two personal days, you're looking at about two full months of paid time off. And you better believe I use every single day each year! If it's a day off, chances are I am out of the country.Mongolia (Photo: Randy Williams)How do you plan one of your trips?While I was on a mission to finish all 193 countries, I planned each trip extremely methodically. I get across the ocean using [credit card] points, so my planning usually starts by finding an international flight that works for me: a flight using the least amount of points possible.That first destination is my jump-off point; then I simply look at the map and start hunting for the best and cheapest direct flights into other countries nearby, and finally, my flight home. Trying to see so many countries during a single two-week trip can be a real challenge.Most people go to one place: that means one, round-trip plane ticket.Not me: I pack in as many new nations as possible in a short amount of time. This is fairly easy to do in most of Europe, Latin America and many parts of Asia, but once you hit challenging regions like Africa and the Pacific, all bets are off! The lack of direct flights and lack of flights in and out of some of those places, in general, make traveling to multiple countries quickly next to impossible.I've spent months on end trying to figure out how to navigate through regions using [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) and an Excel sheet. It can be very nerve-wracking yet extremely rewarding when you make it work; then you just have to hope the flights actually happen! I counted one trip that had me on 21 planes in two weeks.Whoa! With so many flights in a short period of time, have you ever had a moment where one leg of the trip just didn’t go as planned?I got stuck in the Central African Republic once because the flight to Nairobi just simply never showed up. My friends wondered why I just didn't "hop a flight to another city" and re-route to my next destination. They didn't realize not all airports are like LAX, O'Hare, and CVG. In Bangui (Central African Republic) there were simply no other flights that day...to anywhere!Making a new friend in Kazakhstan (Photo: Randy Williams)So, I realize it’s probably difficult to just pick one, but can you share one of your favorite experiences while traveling?I mentioned Brazil earlier - probably my favorite. So, let's touch on Bangladesh. This was a little early on in my challenge to see every country in the world. As I met more and more people who were on this same mission (yes, there are others!), I would ask these seasoned travelers what their favorite and least favorite countries were. I remember a handful of these experts telling me Bangladesh was the absolute worst: crowded, dirty, chaotic. Bangladesh kept popping up as these expert globe-trotters' least favorite. For this reason, I was not looking forward to visiting Dhaka whatsoever, booking just one night there."Get me in and outta here, quick," I reasoned. However, to my surprise and shock, after just about 90 minutes on the ground, Bangladesh earned a "Top 10" spot on my "favorite countries list." I was enamored with the nation for so many reasons. I felt such a great vibe and had such a wonderful experience there - in a country I was expecting to really dislike.It just goes to show you that your preconceived ideas about a place can be totally wrong. I've always said the best part about travel is the sweet surprises along the way. You can plan all you want, but a vibe is a vibe, and you can never predict it - good or bad. You will only know once you go.Bhutan (Photo: Randy Williams)How do you save money on flights, hotels, and experiences when you travel?I play the "credit card miles game" like a sport. In fact, the recent restrictions from banks on just how many credit cards they'll give you and how many times you can earn a bonus were probably directly caused by me! Sorry. I'm a definite card "churner." "Churning" is the process of going through many credit cards quickly, to grab each big sign-on bonus before moving to the next. It's saved me hundreds of thousands of dollars in airfare over the last ten years. The key is to make sure you're never carrying a balance and paying interest. Otherwise, you're not winning!I don't save a ton on hotels because I am loyal to one brand - for the points and perks. This limits my choices and doesn't allow me to always pick the best deal. But for me, the benefits, like extra miles/points and perks like late checkouts and upgrades, are really worth it.Randy in Kenya (Photo: Randy Williams)Randy in Argentina (Photo: Randy Williams)What did traveling the world teach you about people?I have grown a lot by traveling. I'm not above admitting that some of the very people and cultures I'd feared in my twenties…I am attached to and adore now. I truly feel that traveling has made me a better person, and I'm happy to say I now have a friend in every country, and that's such a gift.My travels have also allowed me to connect in a special way with people I meet abroad or at home. Telling my Uzbek taxi driver or the Eritrean concierge that I’ve been to their country and telling them the things I loved about their home – it makes their day! Sometimes, they'll gush: "Wow! No one's ever even HEARD of my country, and you traveled there?" It makes them smile.Recently, a Moldovan cashier here in San Diego told me I was the first person she's ever met in America who'd actually been to her country. My travels have allowed me to make such special connections with people I might have normally just made a transaction with and gone about my day.Singapore (Photo: Randy Williams)This is a difficult question, but if you had to pick your three favorite countries, which would you choose and why?This is actually an easy one for me. Brazil gets the award for number one: it's the only country I've actually left everything in the USA for and moved to. I lived there in my early 30s and still have a condo in the northeastern beach town of Recife. The Philippines gets number two because they have the absolute friendliest people. And how lucky was I that my very last country would be one of my favorites?Turkmenistan is one of the least-visited countries in the world, but it is an absolute treasure for so many reasons. I don’t think there is enough room to go on about Turkmenistan, but let’s just say it’s one of the most mysterious, intriguing, unknown, and beautiful countries in the world. I was so happy my final country was so memorable, and it's at the top of my list to return to. I actually have some of the same feelings for Turkmenistan that I had for Brazil - a nagging itch that is telling me that I belong there for more than just a vacation Who knows? Maybe Turkmenistan will be my next home!Brazil (Photo: Randy Williams)What item(s) do you pack on every single trip?I am a staunch believer in never checking bags! [Editor’s note: CVG CEO Candace McGraw fully agrees!]There is something so liberating about jumping off a plane and immediately exiting the airport, leaving behind the mobs waiting for their bags. There’s no worries about lost or damaged bags either.I've got it down to a science: one backpack and a few changes of clothes. Of course, I take my phone and some travel-sized toiletries. But the final thing I can't travel without is sleep medication. Any prescription drug comes with responsibility, and I am aware of the risks, but there is nothing worse than getting your sleep completely turned around overseas and not being able to get back to normal. I once spent an entire week in Italy, sleeping from 8AM until 5PM and unable to sleep at all during "sleeping" hours. It was awful! Never again! What’s the thing that everyone thinks they need when they travel but probably don’t?A checked bag! You know what they say: "Take half the clothes and twice the money!" And whenever I see someone traveling with a pillow from home, I just want to tell them, "You know the hotel has complimentary pillows for you?!"Brunei (Photo: Randy Williams)Ha! So, what’s next? Are there countries you want to go back and spend more time checking out?That's the sweet part - the reward after all the "work." I can take a big breath now and slow down and return to the places I love, to unpack, stay longer, travel deeper. It's what I've been waiting for all this time.The list of places I've really fallen in love with is long, and I'm pretty sure my dance card will be full forever. I'll This past December I headed back to the Philippines for a couple weeks, which was amazing.In March, I will travel to Czechia (‘The Artist Formerly Known as The Czech Republic’) where I will visit long lost relatives for the first time and see the house where my great-grandfather was born. The list goes on and on.Randy in Azerbaijan (Photo: Randy Williams)And I also understand you created your own country?!Well, what do you do when you've seen all 193 countries? You create the 194th!The Republic of Slowjamastan is an 11-acre "micronation" located about 90 minutes south of Palm Springs, California. We have our own border fence and checkpoint, monument, flagpole and flag, passports, currency, police, fire and border vehicles, and the most glorious national anthem you've ever heard.Really, you should treat yourself and go down the rabbit hole that is Slowjamastan. It will not disappoint! Oh, and I'm "The Sultan" of Slowjamastan, let it be known! I know what you're thinking, and yes, my family does think I'm really weird for this one!A postcard from Slowjamistan (Photo: Randy Williams)Can we visit?Absolutely! And if you can't make it out in person, sign up to be a citizen online - it's free, and you'll be in good company. To date, Slowjamastan boasts over 16,000 registered citizens. You can apply at [www.slowjamastan.org](http://www.slowjamastan.org/).Randy as “The Sultan” of Slowjamistan (Photo: Randy Williams)What would you say to people who want to travel internationally but haven’t done it yet?Don't wait 'til tomorrow. Many years ago, I stopped collecting "things" and started amassing "experiences." You only live once, but by traveling the world, I truly feel like I have been blessed with a complete second life! I wish this for everyone. Randy making more friends in Bonaire (Photo: Randy Williams)You can follow Randy on his travel blog, [www.ramblinrandy.com](http://www.ramblinrandy.com/), and on [Instagram](http://instagram.com/rdub). Know someone with a cool travel story? I want to hear all about it at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and X ([Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial)). Find your own travel adventure for less on my [Jay’s Deals](https://www.cvgairport.com/jet-with-jay/) page.I’ll see you soon on an international flight to somewhere fun! -JayLearn more - Jan 18, 2024
Six Things You’ll Totally Dig in Washington, D.C.
There’s more to Washington, D.C., than just politics. It doesn’t matter if you lean blue, red, or some kind of purple, you’ll love the historic monuments, top-notch food, and cool hotel options across the DMV (D.C. - Maryland - Virginia). The sculpture is an impressive tribute.You’ve Gotta See Honest AbePerhaps the most famous Washington, D.C., site, the Lincoln Memorial is the highest-ranked attraction in the area. Best of all, it’s totally free, making it the most visited site on the National Mall. Unlike many museums and ticketed sites, the Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Some of the best views and peaceful, special moments can be had when the crowds disperse after dark or in the early morning hours.The Lincoln Memorial overlooking the Reflecting Pool is beautiful in the evening.While the [National Park Service](https://nps.gov/linc/index.htm) offers no formal tours, Rangers are available to answer your questions every day from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (except Christmas). Fun fact: You can go [fishing](https://www.nps.gov/nama/learn/nature/fishing.htm) at the nearby Constitution Gardens, although you might get a few strange looks. How do I know? Well…Even though the fish weren’t huge, it was still a great view.The Smithsonian Museums are a must-seeIt’s not just “The Smithsonian,” but rather 17 different museums, exhibits, art galleries, and even a zoo! From the Air and Space Museum to the African American History and Culture Museum, this impressive collection can be visited entirely free of charge. To better control crowds, some of the sites require advance tickets or timed entry so it’s best to check [this page](https://www.si.edu/visit/hours) and plan ahead.The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History boasts the world’s largest collection of dinosaur bones, animal specimens, rocks, minerals, and tools. That’s over 150 million items! It also offers rotating exhibitions, special tours, and age-appropriate activities for kids.The Air and Space Museum has an impressive display of planes.One of the more unique museums in the District, the National Postal Museum has Earth’s largest collection of stamps. While you’re there, they’ll even give you free stamps to begin your own stamp collection.Georgetown, a quaint neighborhood in a big city.By George, it’s a Cool Town!Nestled along the banks of the Potomac River, the Georgetown neighborhood features authentic cobblestone streets, beautiful buildings, and a wonderful neighborhood vibe. One thing we love to do when arriving in a new city for the first time is to take a “[free walking tour](https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/dc-foot).” Are they really free? Sort of. They’re group tours that are totally free to join. At the end of the tour, you are welcome to pay the guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. This is a great place to try one.Europe? Nope, D.C.!From strolling along the scenic waterfront to dining at hip eateries to checking out the 200-year-old Tudor Place home and museum, you’ll want to spend an entire day here. Then, at night, enjoy bocce bowling at a place called [Pinstripes](https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/pinstripes). Pause a Moment at Moving Memorial SitesD.C. is home to some of the most sacred monument sites in the country. A visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a moving tribute to the sacrifices of our service members. The 19 soldier statues placed throughout the grass and bushes in the Korean War Veterans Memorial are so detailed that you’ll want to spend some time in silence to truly appreciate them. The National World War II Memorial honors soldiers from all 56 states and territories, each with their own pillar circling the fountain.The National World War II MemorialEach year, [Tri-State Honor Flight](https://www.honorflighttristate.org/) allows local veterans to fly from CVG to Washington, D.C., to visit and see the war memorials in person. These monuments are very special places to visit for everyone, though. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, as its website states, teaches millions of people each year about the dangers of unchecked hatred. It’s recommended to get your tickets in advance, as free timed-entry tickets are required to enter the permanent exhibition. The National ArchivesSee the Actual Documents That Started Our NationIt’s not just any archive, it’s The National Archives Museum. This is where our country keeps its most important original documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. And yes, you can actually see them in-person.The back of a $2 bill shows the signing of the Declaration of IndependenceAdmission is, as you might have guessed, free, and no reservation is required. However, $1 timed-entry reservations are recommended from March through September to avoid waiting in a long line. There are also [ongoing exhibits](https://museum.archives.gov/exhibits) that highlight different facets of American life.Feeling fancy? Georgetown Cupcake offers “designer cupcakes”Go Eat All The Food Movers and shakers get hungry - Washington, D.C., is known for having some of the best restaurants in the country. There are two ways I like to find a new restaurant when traveling. The first is TripAdvisor’s highest-rated restaurants. You can check out D.C.’s list [here](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g28970-Washington_DC_District_of_Columbia.html) and find a spot that fits your taste and budget. I also like to use the “Near Me” feature on the TripAdvisor app while traveling. This is perfect for when your stomach starts rumbling and lets you find highly rated restaurants that are close by. Camp Wharf S’mores Bar offers a great place to unwind.[Eater](https://dc.eater.com/maps/dc-best-restaurants-38) offers up their 38 best restaurants in the DMV, while the [Michelin guide](https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/best-of/washington-dc-michelin-best-desserts) highlights some of the fanciest (and most expensive) places to get dessert. After dinner and dessert, cycle off some of those calories on a [bike tour](https://www.fattiretours.com/washington-dc/) of the city.Washington Union Station offers a beautiful photo op.Getting ThereThere are three airports serving the D.C. area. - Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) - Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) - Baltimore / Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) You may have visited the latter, as it’s a popular Southwest hub that many Cincinnati flights connect through. The U.S. Capitol Building at sunset.Like New York City, having three different airports in one spot means more flight choices and better fares. I’ve seen roundtrip fares under $200 for most of the year, oftentimes closer to $100 - $150. There are nearly a dozen nonstop flights year-round from CVG on multiple airlines, including American, United, Southwest, and Delta. Flights leave CVG as early as 6:00 a.m. and return as late as 9:00 p.m., allowing you the flexibility to see as much as possible during the day, then hop on a quick 90-minute flight home.The end of March or early April offer an amazing display of cherry blossoms.Keep an eye on [Jay’s Deals](https://www.cvgairport.com/deals/) page for the lowest priced airfare, and I’ll see you in D.C. soon! -JayLearn more - Aug 1, 2023
Local businesses at CVG offer a taste of Cincy for travelers
Beer, bourbon, and black raspberry chocolate chip ice cream. These Cincy region staples are becoming standouts at CVG through the airport’s partnerships with locally owned Braxton Brewing Company, Cork ‘n Bottle, and Graeter’s Ice Cream. These establishments bring local flavor to passengers from around the world.Braxton Brewing CompanyA large greenery wall and window for up-close plane viewing greet travelers as they walk into Braxton’s taproom in Concourse A, along with a bar, televisions, and rows of tables that allow customers, including families, to enjoy meals before or after flights. This taproom, which opened in spring 2023, is Braxton’s first full-service restaurant.“Food is very important to the overall experience, and our location at CVG is helping us lead the way on what having food at all our locations looks like,” says Braxton co-founder and chief executive officer Jake Rouse.Rouse and his team worked with CVG to establish a food menu that caters to a crowd who is looking for a quick bite to eat, especially during the airport’s busiest time: the mornings.The brewery adapted its existing Taco Fuerte menu to feature breakfast tacos and burritos, breakfast nachos, eggs and tots, and more signature items. “People are really loving the menu, the flexibility, and the quickness. We are getting good feedback on the beer as well,” says Rouse.Braxton has not yet used CVG to test new products, although that is something the company may tap into. For now, Braxton’s business is taking advantage of the airport’s captive audience.“We are opening our brand up to so many more customers and potential customers who could go buy our beer at the thousands of locations that sell it across Cincinnati." Down the way from Braxton is long-established Cincinnati sweet shop, Graeter’s. The family-owned, handcrafted ice cream business has been dishing out delicious treats to locals in the Cincy region since 1870 and has been serving travelers from around the world at CVG since 2013. The company started with a smaller scoop of the airport experience when it opened two kiosks: one in Concourse A and one in B.Passengers proved they were craving Graeter’s flavors while on the go, and the sweet shop worked with CVG to replace both kiosks with an inline store in Concourse A. Graeter’s chief of retail operations, Chip Graeter, says this decision was icing on the cake.“What really cemented us in the airport was when we opened our inline store in 2016. I was very proud and excited to be a part of that store,” says Graeter.The fourth-generation owner and operator of the business says starting the store at CVG was an easy process thanks to their relationship with the airport, contractors, and his highly reliable team. The airport store showcases its most popular items across three product lines: ice cream, candy, and baked goods. The busy mornings at CVG allow Graeter’s to serve delicious donuts and comforting coffees to thousands of travelers who fly out of the airport daily."We have the ability to reach people who would never see our store otherwise. They might have heard about Graeter’s in a publication or book, and they can experience it themselves without leaving the airport,” says Graeter.The chief of retail operations is proud to operate a business that brings joy to all. His family’s treats are a great way to sweeten a flight out of CVG and provide a taste of home to those returning.Another taste of home at CVG, especially for Kentucky travelers, can be found at Cork ‘n Bottle. Hundreds of bourbons, including rare varieties, wines, and spirits can be tasted and/or purchased at two locations: an inline store in Concourse B and a kiosk in Concourse A. Later in 2023, the kiosk in Concourse A will be replaced with a second inline store.“We are constantly looking for different business formats. We have found the CVG relationship to be very strong, and we think it’s because of the breadth of customer exposure that the airport provides,” says Tom Neyer, owner of Cork ‘n Bottle. “Being able to introduce Kentucky’s finest spirits to the global audience is good for Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati region.”![cork-n-bottle-store-front](//images.ctfassets.net/38z8fjm5i4nh/3meZykmvH8fAz9wvIP6P3M/d8608c10c41220f46299bdb8d39de4ea/cork-n-bottle-store-front.png)Cork ‘n Bottle took a similar flight path to Graeter’s and launched its business at CVG as a kiosk in 2018. After two years of successful business, the beverage shop opened its first inline location at the start of the pandemic. Cork ‘n Bottle persevered through its partnership with the airport.“CVG has been \[a\] transparent and constructive business partner,” says Neyer. “The people involved \[from\] top to bottom have been even-handed, fair minded, and are looking for a win-win.” Neyer says his stores at the airport are perfect for travelers looking to grab a bottle to enjoy once they arrive at their destination, or for travelers who want to relax before their flight and try some of the best locally made beverages. Either way, Cork ‘n Bottle’s locations are sure to lift spirits.CVG is always looking to bring more local businesses and flavors to the airport to provide a unique Cincy experience to the more than 7.8 million passengers it serves annually; this includes food, beverage, and retail store concepts. In mid-August 2023, the airport will be open for new business solicitations in these areas. If you’d like more information on how to start doing business at CVG, please [email procurement@cvgairport.com](mailto:procurement@cvgairport.com).Learn more