I recently was invited on a hard hat tour to view the construction progress at Pittsburgh International Airport.
     Many people may want to know, why is the airport being changed? When the airport was originally built, PIttsburgh,  was considered a hub airport. As you may remember, US Airways was the primary carrier with many flights connecting through Pittsburgh.  Times have changed dramatically; US Airways has merged with American and 95% of the travelers originate their travel in Pittsburgh.
       The main difference is there will no land-side terminal and no tram to transport you between terminals. The new airport is going to have a much shorter walk from the time you enter the airport until you arrive at their gate.
         The theme of the airport is Nature, Technology and Community and you will see this portrayed throughout the airport. When you enter, it will be very light and open and there will be a clear pathway from where you check-in, pass through security and pass through a tunnel to exit in a light & airy area before getting to your gate. You will see nature in tree-like structures constructed of steel as you enter, with leaves around the base in the floor. The ceiling will look like wood, but it is actually aluminum and there will be an abundance of windows!
         There will be four terraces to enjoy the outdoors. Two large ones will be near baggage claim, so people picking up guests will no longer just have to stand around and wait.  The other two will be for passengers after they pass through security. I'm anxious for this as I like to be outside instead of just sitting in the gate area.
          This summer there were major delays at TSA check points.  In the new airport there will be 11 check points and more agents. So the beginning of the trip will be easier and so will the end. There will be fewer baggage carousels, however, the flights will be arriving very close to baggage claim.  Your bags should be waiting for you when you arrive at baggage claim - no more long waits!!
          The air-side terminal will be basically the same, just refreshing will take place.
           A new parking garage is near completion, so there will be much more covered parking. In all an additional 6000 parking spaces will be added.
          When will the "new" airport be ready for traffic?  An exact date has not been announced, but it will be in 2025. Once construction is completed it will take another 3 months to make sure all the systems are working correctly. It will not be a gradual opening, it will be immediate, one day you will depart the current way and the next day you will depart from the new airport.
          It looks like it is going to be very innovating; stay tuned for more updates. My photos have to be approved before they can be posted!

     I recently had the pleasure of staying at Sandals Royal Curacao. This is one of Sandals newest resorts and is very beautifully laid out. This resort has 351 rooms so it is easy to get around and all of the rooms have a water view.
     Sandals is about 45 minutes from the airport so the ride gives you a nice view of the island. The landscaping is gorgeous and creates a relaxing atmosphere. This resort has a smaller beach than some resorts, but there are plenty of areas to relax and enjoy both the beach and pools. Speaking of pools, they have an infinity pool that overlooks the water. The walls of one of the pools is clear, so it makes for some great photo opportunities.
     There are numerous water sports to participate in and all are included with your stay. There is a marina next door, so as the sun is setting there is a continuous stream of boats passing by. This location is one of the best places for sunsets on the island.
      For those who like land sports - there are both tennis &  pickleball courts. There is a golf course (I've never seen such a long course) located adjacent to the resort, but it is not included in the package price. Of course there is a Red Lane Spa to be pampered! 
     One of the differences in Sandals vs some other all-inclusive resorts is the quality of the food. The restaurants I ate in were very good, including the surf & turf!  In addition to the 8 restaurants there are also 3 food trucks, which offer a variety of choices. There's a great coffee shop, which has yummy deserts, ice cream and specialty coffees.  Robert Mondavi wines and Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee are served at the resort.
     There are several options for excursions, which is the best and least expensive way to see the island.  I took an open-air bus tour which was a great & fun way to tour and the driver was very knowledgeable
     One of the most important assets of any resort are the people and I have found that the staff at Sandals are very friendly and helpful. If you look confused, the will actually walk you to where you want to go. I couldn't find the food trucks and one of the bellman tracked me down and gave me a ride!!
     Sandals Royal Curacao is perfect for guests who want a laid-back experience, with nice pools, many dining options and nightly entertainment. If this sounds like your ideal vacation, you may want to consider this resort. If you are looking for a livelier scene, another Sandals location may be a better choice.  Whatever your preference, Port of Call Travel can assist you in choosing the best option.  Please enjoy some of the photos of this resort posted on our Facebook page.