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My first ever United Airlines Flight – A Review

My first ever United Airlines Flight – A Review

In the week just gone, I had my first ever United Airlines flight. In this post, you get to find out what I thought, from check-in to disembarkation.

Over the past 3 years, I have had an average 14 individual flights between Ireland and the UK. These were with Aer Lingus, British Airways, WestJet and mainly American Airlines. This was my first with United Airlines.

About United Airlines

United Airlines is one of the largest and most well-known airlines in the world, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. With a history that dates back to 1926, United has grown into a global leader in air travel, connecting people across continents. Operating a vast fleet, the airline serves hundreds of destinations in over 60 countries, making it a key player in both domestic and international travel. United is also a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, which allows passengers to enjoy seamless connections and perks across partner airlines. Known for its iconic globe logo, the company continues to innovate and prioritize customer satisfaction, offering a range of services from Economy to the luxurious Polaris business class.

What sets United apart is its commitment to sustainability and technology. The airline has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact, aiming to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 without relying on traditional carbon offsets. United also focuses on enhancing the travel experience with advanced tools, such as the award-winning mobile app that keeps passengers informed and connected throughout their journey. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, United Airlines strives to make every flight comfortable and efficient, helping millions of passengers explore the world with ease.

United Airlines 757-200 at Dublin Airport

My Review of Dublin to Las Vegas

Check-in

I used the United Airlines App to check in. Overall I found the app to be stable and easy to use. I was able to add my travel documents, review the travel advisories and check in online. This is one of the best airline apps that I have used. The American Airlines app has a few issues when it comes to travel-ready documentation. 

Seat Purchase

I do like a window seat, it is my preference with my love of aviation to be able to see what is going on outside the plane. On American Airlines, my flights from Ireland would normally be $32 per seat and then within the US my window seats were usually $18, which is on average $50 one way for the seats I wanted.

Unfortunately with United Airlines, my cost was almost double. So in this case I just booked seats on the 2 long flights Between Ireland and USA both ways.

I found this also on the flight from Dublin to Tampa via Newark 4 days later – almost $100 for 2 seats on one leg.

Arrival On-Board

The arrival on board was very good, and the cabin crew was very friendly and cheery. The seats were very comfortable. I spotted in the back of the seat that this was a 757. I had not been on a 757 since 1995 as far as I recall it was a Britania Airways 757 between Dublin and Orlando. This 757-200 had been very well maintained with comfortable seats, good air conditioning, and a good online entertainment system. Pre-take-off setup was completed very well and we took off about 10 mins behind the scheduled time – which of course could also be air traffic control issues etc.

On Board Meals

The Meal arrived about 2 hours into the flight. I chose the chicken dish. It was piping hot, and tasty and it seems to have been well developed from the point of view of flavour and texture. I really enjoyed it. On the return leg, I chose a veg tortellini which was even tastier – If I had received it in a restaurant I would have been very happy. There was a small bag of cocoa truffles which were just amazing. Overall I was very very happy with the food on board.

United Airlines Meal

Comfort

Just a note on this … I don’t sleep on flights but for the first time ever I got 4h 30 mins sleep on the US to Ireland flight, so I think this is a testament to the comfort on board. I also slept well on the flight from Newark to Dublin on 4th January, again, this is unusual for me.

Overall Rating

I would give them a rating of 8/10 which is the same rating I would give American Airlines. In United’s case, I dropped marks on the price of the seats. In the American Airlines case, I dropped marks because the app often rejected my travel document regarding my address in the USA (something to do with the way it was parsed).

One Further note … I booked seats for a flight to Tampa later in December. I paid over $50 per seat and at the time, the 2 seats at the very back of the plane were not available. I went to check in (over 4 weeks after buying the seats) and the seats we originally wanted were now available. Instead of being able to simply switch seats (since we already purchased and paid for seats), it was charging an EXTRA $160 per seat for the change. So obviously we did not do that. but I really do think that the seat charges on United are really outrageous compared to the competition.

HOWEVER, we had an issue with a separate flight and United Customer Care (in Ireland) solved this for us in 5 minutes and for free. Without that fix to our flights, we would not have had our Christmas Vacation so I am very happy with that resolution. But on the flip side, I wanted to change the flights on the return leg, but because we booked with Booking.com and not United directly, they wanted to charge us over $1,140 for the change of flight. 

LESSON – Never Book a United Airlines flight on Booking.com !

United Airlines Aircraft Dulles
  • Comfort 94% 94%
  • Food 96% 96%
  • Seat Pricing 30% 30%
  • Value for Money 85% 85%
  • Customer Service 81% 81%
  • Overall 87% 87%
5 unexpected destinations for adventure lovers

5 unexpected destinations for adventure lovers

Introduction

For those who crave new thrills and unusual experiences, choosing a destination becomes an important task. The world is full of amazing places that can surprise even experienced travelers. We have compiled a list of unusual destinations, each of which is ideal for those who seek adventure and bright emotions.

1. Norway: Ice hotels and the aurora borealis

Norway is a country that can surprise even the most sophisticated adventurers. One of the most unusual experiences is a visit to the ice hotels. Built of ice and snow, the structures offer the unique experience of living in an ice fairy tale. Inside there are frosty interiors, cozy bedrooms in snow domes and restaurants with ice furniture. No less impressive will be the aurora borealis, which can be observed in regions above the Arctic Circle. This natural phenomenon attracts tourists from all over the world. Bright colors shimmering in the night sky create an unforgettable atmosphere. For maximum effect, it is better to go during the winter months, when the chances of seeing this phenomenon are particularly high.

Useful travel tips

  • Warm clothing is a must, as temperatures can drop well below freezing.
  • Book accommodation in advance – ice hotels are popular with tourists.
  • Take advantage of local excursions to see the aurora borealis.

This country will be a real discovery for those who dream of an unforgettable winter adventure.

2. Namibia: Namib Desert and Maritime Adventures

African Namibia is not only endless sand dunes, but also a wealth of outdoor activities. The Namib Desert is considered one of the oldest on the planet. Huge dunes, reaching heights of more than 300 meters, allow you to enjoy the beauty of untouched nature. Here you can try sandboarding – sliding down the sandy slopes on a board. Another specialty of the region is the opportunity to combine desert adventures with sea adventures. The Atlantic coast near the town of Swakopmund is ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Kayaking among seals, dolphin watching and boat trips will leave vivid memories.

What to include in your itinerary

  • A visit to Dune 45 at sunrise.
  • Kayaking or boat trips on Walfish Bay.
  • Travel along the Skeleton Coast with its unique scenery.

This destination will suit those who want to experience the contrast between the desert and the ocean.

3. Guatemala: volcanoes, ancient cities and casinos

Guatemala is a country where nature and history are intertwined in unique landscapes. One of the main attractions are the volcanoes, many of which are still active. For example, climbing the Acatenango volcano will provide incredible views of the neighboring lava-spitting Fuego volcano. In addition to natural beauty, visit ancient Mayan cities such as Tikal. This archaeological complex is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The majestic temples towering amidst the jungle transport travelers back thousands of years. Entertainment enthusiasts can visit casinos in Guatemala. Modern casinos offer a large selection of gambling games and excellent service. If you prefer online entertainment, a great alternative is Lemon Casino gry za 1 gr

Tips for travelers

  • Hire guides to climb volcanoes.
  • Take comfortable trekking shoes with you.
  • Visit local markets to sample traditional cuisine.

Guatemala is ideal for those seeking adventure and an ancient atmosphere.

4. Georgia: high mountain trails and hospitality

Georgia is a country that delights with its nature and culture. For lovers of outdoor activities, unique high-mountain trails are available here. For example, a hike to Svaneti will allow you to enjoy views of majestic mountains, medieval towers and clean air. No less interesting will be getting acquainted with local cuisine and hospitality. You will be warmly welcomed in every corner of the country, and dishes such as khachapuri or chinkali will complete the experience. You should also try the local wine, which is one of the region’s hallmarks.

What to do

  • Walk the trail to Mount Kazbek.
  • Visit ancient monasteries nestled among the mountains.
  • Participate in traditional Georgian feasts.

Georgia will give you a sense of warmth and leave you with the most pleasant memories.

5. New Zealand: adventures at the end of the world

New Zealand is the perfect place for lovers of outdoor activities and extraordinary landscapes. From glacier trekking to bungee jumping, the North and South Islands offer a variety of adventures. One of the main attractions is Fjordland National Park. Here you can see majestic fjords such as Milford Sound. For movie fans, it is also an opportunity to visit the locations where Lord of the Rings was filmed.

Attractions not to miss

  • A helicopter flight over the Southern Alps.
  • Boat rides on Lake Wakatipu.
  • Hiking trails, such as the Milford Track.

New Zealand is a country where every moment is filled with new discoveries.

Conclusion

The world is full of amazing places that can inspire adventurous travelers. Whether you choose the icy expanses of Norway, the volcanic landscapes of Guatemala or the sand dunes of Namibia, each of these places will leave a vivid impression. Discover something new and let each trip be the beginning of an exciting story.

Traveling in search of gambling souls: 10 places for risk-takers

Traveling in search of gambling souls: 10 places for risk-takers

Introduction

For thrill seekers, standard travel and predictable itineraries are not enough. They are attracted to adrenaline, unexpected twists, and opportunities to test themselves in extreme conditions. If you are one of those who crave risk and challenge, this list is your guide to some of the world’s most exciting destinations. Here are places where you can test your fate, test your limits and really feel the excitement. For those who prefer an online format, you can check out this platform https://darmowe-gry-hazardowe.com/

1. Las Vegas, USA: Mecca of gambling and entertainment.

Las Vegas is the undisputed leader among destinations for adventure and gambling thrills. This city never sleeps and offers entertainment for every taste. Some of the world’s most famous casinos are located here, such as Bellagio, Caesars Palace and The Venetian. You can try your luck at roulette, blackjack or poker. Each casino hotel is a mini-city with restaurants, bars and entertainment programs.

In addition to gambling, Las Vegas offers many other adventures:

  • Skydiving over the Nevada desert.
  • Extreme rides on the roof of the Stratosphere
  • Attending illusionist shows and circus performances.

Every day in Las Vegas is full of excitement and unpredictability. It’s a place where risk and fun go hand in hand.

2. Macau, China: an Oriental paradise for risk-takers

Macau is often referred to as Asia’s Las Vegas thanks to its many luxury casinos and entertainment complexes. The city combines Eastern culture and Western gambling traditions. You can visit famous casinos such as The Venetian Macao and City of Dreams. Playing poker or baccarat, you will experience a unique atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else.

Other attractions in Macau

  • Bungee jumping from the 233-meter Macau Tower.
  • Touring ancient Chinese temples and colonial buildings.
  • Culinary tours of local markets and restaurants.

Macau offers the perfect blend of tradition and modern excitement. Here everyone will find a way to try their luck and get a dose of adrenaline.

3 – Monte Carlo, Monaco: Luxury and risk on the Côte d’Azur

Monte Carlo is synonymous with elegance and high style. It is home to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, which attracts gamblers from all over the world. It is a place for those who prefer to gamble big and enjoy the atmosphere of luxury.

What to do outside the casino?

  • Take a yacht cruise along the Côte d’Azur.
  • Take in a Formula 1 race at the Monte Carlo circuit.
  • Visit the principality’s museums and palaces.

Monte Carlo is ideal for those who want to combine gambling with a sophisticated vacation.

4 – Atlantic City, USA: The East Coast of gambling

Atlantic City is a popular resort on the east coast of the US, known for its casinos and beaches. You can visit facilities such as the Borgata, Caesars Atlantic City and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The city’s atmosphere is imbued with a spirit of excitement and entertainment.

Additional attractions

  • Walk along the famous promenade.
  • Water skiing and surfing.
  • Attending concerts and entertainment programs.

Atlantic City offers many ways to try your luck and have an exciting experience.

5. Singapore: modern casinos and skyscrapers

Singapore is a combination of cutting-edge technology and excitement. The Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa casinos offer a unique gaming experience surrounded by futuristic architecture.

What else is worth seeing?

  • Stroll through Gardens by the Bay.
  • Visit Sentosa Island with its attractions.
  • Climb to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck .

Singapore is the city of the future for those who seek risk and innovation.

6. Baden-Baden, Germany: a classic of European excitement

Baden-Baden is famous for having the oldest casino in Europe. It is a place for those who appreciate elegance and tradition. At the Kurhaus Casino you can feel the atmosphere of the 19th century playing roulette and poker.

Entertainment in Baden-Baden

  • Thermal springs and spa complexes.
  • Walking tours of the Black Forest.
  • Visiting art galleries.

Baden-Baden is an ideal place for those who want to combine excitement with relaxing recreation.

7. Niagara Falls, Canada: casino and natural power.

The Niagara Falls area is home to several major casinos, such as Fallsview Casino and Casino Niagara. Here you can test your luck against one of the world’s most majestic natural wonders.

What’s there to see besides the casinos?

  • Take a boat ride to the falls.
  • Take a night view of the illuminated streams of water.
  • A helicopter flight over the falls.

Niagara combines excitement and natural splendor.

8 South Africa: casino and safari.

South Africa offers a unique combination of gambling and wildlife. Sun City offers casino gambling and safari tours to national parks.

What should you include in your trip?

  • Golfing at some of the best courses in the country.
  • Wildlife savannah tours.
  • Visiting cultural villages.

South Africa will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

9. Australia: casinos and surfing

Sydney and Melbourne offer many casinos, such as The Star and Crown Melbourne. Here you can try your luck and enjoy the ocean.

What else is worth doing.

  • Learn to surf.
  • Visit the Sydney Opera House.
  • Discover the Great Barrier Reef.

Australia is a paradise for risk-takers and adventurers.

10. Poland: gambling and culture

Poland also has no shortage of gambling-related entertainment venues. Casinos in Warsaw, Krakow and Gdansk offer a variety of games and entertainment. For those who prefer the online format, free gambling casino hot spot slots are a great choice.

Tourist attractions in Poland

  • Walks through old cities.
  • Traveling to the mountains and the Baltic coast.
  • Attending festivals and cultural events.

Poland perfectly combines excitement, history and modernity.

Summary

These destinations will provide you with vivid emotions, thrills and the opportunity to try your luck. Whether you choose the gambling capitals of the world or lesser-known destinations, every trip will be an adventure.

Could Bingo be a Great Way to Boost Ireland’s Tourism Industry?

Could Bingo be a Great Way to Boost Ireland’s Tourism Industry?

There are already plenty of reasons why people want to visit Ireland, and the tourism industry here is healthy, for the time being. However, times are changing, and it’s always a good idea to think about how new opportunities can be seized and overseas arrival figures boosted further.

With the online bingo industry-leading a resurgence in interest in the random ball draw, Ireland could seek to promote itself as a place for bingo tourism. There are a couple of places in the country that already have a few halls and could potentially become destinations for people wanting to play the game while on holiday.

Bingo is Firmly Back in the Mainstream

The internet age has brought many an unconventional success story, and bingo is up there with the most dramatic of them. The online version of the game is now so popular that it comes with all sorts of extra additions alongside the traditional draw.

The Slingo games at Paddy Power are great examples of how developers are creating a wide range of games to appeal to more players. Titles like Slingo Full House, Slingo Press Your Luck, and Slingo Day of the Dab cover a multitude of genres, meaning that it’s easier for people to find something that they’re interested in.

With online bingo making the game more accessible to various different demographics, it has led to a resurgence of the offering in the real world too. More people than ever are frequenting bingo halls, many of which have been modernised for people who first discovered the game online.

Adding Another String to Ireland’s Bow

According to a piece in the Irish Times, there’s been an 8.5 per cent increase in tourism in 2024. Counteracting this however is the fact that tourists are also spending less overall time in the country. This could suggest that Ireland should try to offer more activities to get people to hang around for longer.

There are already plenty of attractions that make the country a desirable destination for visitors. Along with the amazing sites, people love coming for the iconic culture and friendly people. An added abundance of bingo could lend another string to Ireland’s bow and give people another reason to visit the country.

Which Areas Could Be Bingo Hotspots?

Dublin currently has the highest concentration of bingo halls in Ireland, with four to choose from in the capital. This is undoubtedly the most popular tourist destination already, so advertising bingo as an extra activity for tourists to enjoy could encourage more people to visit.

Limerick also has a few bingo halls

Source: Pixabay

Limerick also has a few bingo halls, and the region could use this to stand out from other destinations. There are a few great things to see in Limerick listed by Discover Ireland, such as King John’s Castle and Thomond Park. Promoting bingo locations in the area might be a way to turn what could have been day trips into an overnight affair.

With tourism being such a vital contributor to Ireland’s economy, the country should always be seeking ways to boost it. It may therefore be wise to tap into the growing popularity of bingo and turn some areas of Ireland into more viable long-haul holiday destinations.

 

 

 

Why You Must Visit County Kildare

Why You Must Visit County Kildare

County Kildare is one of Ireland’s 32 counties and the 24th largest in the country. Sitting just southwest of Dublin, it is a true slice of Ireland. With a natural beauty of its own, it is famous for its horse racing history. Below, we discuss why you must visit County Kildare.

The Wider County of Kildare

Kildare is a landlocked county in the middle to east of the country. A lowland area, it is very flat until it starts to rise at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains. With three major rivers, this makes it perfect for gentle walking and cycling holidays.

Kildare Town is a small but bountiful shopping area. It has several high-street stores and some boutique offerings. You can also find a few interesting museums close by, most notably the Museum of Style Icons, which is perfect for any budding fashionistas.

Visit Kildare - The Fields of Kildare

Kildare’s Horse Racing Legacy

The county is most famous for its horse racing legacy. In recent years, there has been a huge boom in interest in the sport. This has been down to several factors, including the increased accessibility afforded to the sport brought on by the digital age. People are now able to watch races from anywhere in the world through their mobile devices.

This has even extended to racehorse ownership. Once, being in a syndicate required a large bankroll and contacts. Now, anyone can invest in a racehorse. Online providers will keep them up to date on the horse’s development, and they will also reap the reward of any race winnings the horse earns, relevant to their share. This has opened ownership up to more people, providing further investment in the sport.

The Irish National Stud is in Kildare, and while it is a running operation, you can still visit it. It is one of the country’s major tourist attractions. There is an interactive visitor centre, and you will get to meet some of the horses that are currently being bred, along with their cute foals. Even retired stars of racing like Hurricane Fly are there.

Finally, no visit is complete without a race meeting at The Curragh. The racecourse is Ireland’s premier flat course and is steeped in history dating back to 1727. It is the home of Ireland’s five most important races, so you may time the visit right and get to see one.

Kildare’s Obscure Sights

Around Kildare, there are some lesser-visited spots the more adventurous traveller may want to tick off their list. Just over the border in County Laois, you will be able to visit the Rock of Dunamase. In 845 AD, the Iron Age Hill Fort that was here was conquered by Vikings. Since then, it was converted into a castle that was later blown up. Today, you can explore the ruins of both as they intertwine and provide beautiful views of the two counties.

Kildare is easy to access, as it is not too far from Dublin and its numerous transport links. As a lesser-frequented area, you may wish to book accommodation and tickets for your visit in advance to avoid disappointment. Kildare is a beautiful jewel in the emerald isle, waiting for you to explore.

5 Sports Stadiums to Visit in the USA

5 Sports Stadiums to Visit in the USA

We here in Ireland love our sports, there’s no doubt about that. Across the country, there are some incredible sports stadiums with a raucous atmosphere and some beautiful architecture. But if you’re traveling to the USA sometime in the future, we highly recommend you check out the sports stadiums there – because everything just gets a little more intense. 

We’re not putting ourselves down, by the way. In the US, everything is done bigger. Their sports stadiums are big, the atmosphere is fiery, the sports are fiercely competitive, and the fans are, shall we say, passionate! Visiting one of these stadiums can give you an idea of how things are done differently, while also allowing you to soak in the unique culture that has formed around American sports over the last half-century. With this in mind, here are X of our favorite sports stadiums in the US and why you should pay them a visit.

T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas

We want to start on the famous Las Vegas Strip – and no, not just because online betting is available in Nevada! This is one of the most incredible modern venues that hosts the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights, as well as a variety of other high-profile sporting events, including boxing matches. The arena’s state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant atmosphere make it a top destination for sports fans. And the chance to make some online bets helps a little too!

Fenway Park, Boston

This is one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the country, renowned for its steep history and architectural charm. It’s also been home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912, so attending a game here is a little like stepping back in time – where you can enjoy classic ballpark fare and the passionate energy of Red Sox Nation!

Lambeau Field, Green Bay

Known as the ‘Frozen Tundra’, Lambeau Field is the legendary home of the Green Bay Packers. With a state-of-the-art atrium and a Hall of Fame that showcases the legacy of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, it’s certainly worth a visit if you’re a football fan or simply someone who appreciates rich sporting history – the atrium also features impressive displays of memorabilia, highlighting the achievements of legendary players and historic moments.

Yankee Stadium, New York City

Ah, the Yankees. While the team itself loves to keep its fans on their toes, the Yankee Stadium has been a solid shrine to baseball history and culture for over fifteen years now. Opened in 2009, the stadium is a gorgeous modern piece of design, complete with fascinating monuments and even a museum. If you choose to go here, however, we’d recommend wearing a Yankees shirt, and not an opposing team. Let’s just say, New Yorkers can get extra passionate! 

AT&T Stadium, Arlington

Home to the Dallas Cowboys, the AT&T Stadium is an architectural marvel that boasts one of the largest high-definition video screens in the world. Even if you have one of the furthest seats, you’re not going to miss any of the action, and the stadium offers a particularly luxurious experience with a number of upscale dining amenities. Beyond American football, the stadium also hosts a number of major concerts and events, making it a great spot even if you’re not the biggest sports fan. But we’d recommend visiting during a game, especially if you want to be embedded in an atmosphere you’ll never forget. 

Conclusion

These are just a few of the stadiums we think you should visit, but there are many more. Whether it’s the Rose Bowl, Nassau Coliseum, Allegiant Stadium, or the United Center, you’re sure to find an electrifying experience that will be hard to top. Until you come back to Croke Park during the championships, that is!