Check out anytime you like
Hotel check-in and checkout times usually run like clockwork. But some hotels are embracing more elastic time frames. The Hoxton's Flexy Time allows guests at the brand's nine hotels across Europe and the United States to state when they will arrive and depart. The entire 24-hour reservation window is fair game — one could theoretically check in at 12:01 a.m., check out at 11:59 p.m. and only pay for one night. Whereas the Hoxton offers flexible check-in for free, Standard Hotels charges 5 to 10% of the room rate for its Standard Time. "We found rigid check-in and checkout times antiquated and inhospitable. Besides, who wouldn't want more spa or pool time at the Standard, Miami?" asked Amar Lalvani, chief executive of Standard Hotels' parent company.
New York Times
Yosemite 'firefall' a no-glow
Yosemite's annual "firefall" phenomenon likely won't appear this year, according to Yosemite National Park. The stunning glow best seen during the last two weeks in February depends on the sunset's waning light striking a glistening waterfall on El Capitan's granite walls. But right now, the fall isn't running. "When weather and conditions align, the light at sunset will reflect on the water in Horsetail Fall, causing the waterfall to light up," a park statement says. "This year, there is little to no water in Horsetail Fall, with no precipitation in the forecast over the next two weeks." But all is not lost. If skies remain clear, you may still see a great sunset. "The light reflecting off El Capitan is still a spectacular sight" even without the waterfall, says park spokeswoman Jamie Richards. Make sure you check forecasts and the park's website to see whether clear skies are predicted.
Los Angeles Times
Lego Movie World to open
On April 1, Legoland California will unveil its biggest change since the park debuted in 1999: a new, 2-acre Lego Movie World aimed at the same young families who made hits of "The Lego Movie" and "The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part." The new territory takes the place of Heartlake City and Duplo Village in the core of the 120-acre Legoland resort. Spokesman Jake Gonzales said Lego Movie World is the biggest post-opening investment the company has made at any of the nine Lego parks worldwide. Among the new territory's features: Emmet's Flying Adventure, a triple-decker "flying" couch that soars under a full-dome virtual screen through experiences that include sweet smells, spraying saltwater, rainbow and glitter; Unikitty's Disco Drop, a tower ride that includes a rapid 30-foot descent; and Benny's Play-Ship, a 40-foot-tall space-themed playground structure with slides.
Los Angeles Times
The most on-time airlines
Airline travelers were a bit more likely to be delayed when flying around the U.S. last year, according to a government report issued Wednesday. The Transportation Department said that 79% of domestic flights last year arrived within 15 minutes of the airline's schedule — the government's definition of being on time. That was down from 79.2% in 2018. Hawaiian Airlines took the prize for being the nation's most punctual airline for the 16th straight year. Blessed by good weather where it operates most of its flights, Hawaiian scored an 87.7% on-time mark, followed by Delta Air Lines at 83.5%. After that, in order from best to worst, it was Alaska Airlines, Southwest, Spirit, Allegiant, American, United, JetBlue and discount carrier Frontier Airlines, last at 73.1%.
Associated PRess
WNBA fashionistas showcase their styles at the draft with spotlight on women's hoops
Paris Hilton backs California bill to bring more transparency to youth treatment facilities
