LONDON (AP) – It might be one of the best-kept secrets in professional sports: At Wimbledon, you can land a seat at Centre Court — the sport’s most iconic grass stage — for as little as £15 (about $20 USD).

Yes, that’s right. While premium seats at Wimbledon can soar to $220 on opening weekend and peak near $370 during finals, savvy fans are scoring the same access for pocket change. The trick? Wimbledon’s official ticket resale program, which gives on-site visitors a chance to scoop up returned tickets to the tournament’s top courts — including Centre Court, No. 1 Court, and No. 2 Court — at dramatically reduced prices.

Wimbledon’s Resale System: Big Tennis, Small Price

The Wimbledon ticket resale program isn’t new — it’s been around since 1954 — but recent updates have made it easier, faster, and more accessible than ever.

Now managed through the Wimbledon mobile app, the system allows ticket holders who leave early to return their seats, which are then re-sold at cut-rate prices to fans already on the grounds.

Ticket Resale Prices (Approximate in USD):

• Centre Court: $20

• No. 1 Court: $13

• No. 2 Court: $13

“You’re not stuck waiting in a long line anymore,” said Henry Thompson, a 38-year-old high school teacher from Missouri. “This is much more efficient — took 30 seconds.”

He snagged a resale seat for No. 2 Court to watch American star Ben Shelton for just $13 — a steep drop from the usual $115.

How to Get Cheap Wimbledon Tickets via the App

Here’s how the Wimbledon ticket resale process works in 2025:

1. Get on-site: You must already have a ticket or grounds pass to enter the venue.

2. Download the Wimbledon app and opt into the resale lottery.

3. Scan your phone at designated kiosks before 2:30 p.m. (near Centre Court or by the famous Wimbledon Queue).

4. Wait for a text notification between 3:00 and 9:00 p.m. to see if you’ve been selected.

5. If chosen, you’ll have 10 minutes to confirm your interest, and 20 minutes to get to the resale booth behind No. 1 Court to complete the purchase using your QR code.

“It’s recycling at its best — sharing the joy,” said Ed Hogan, a 69-year-old fan from Reading. “It’s an elite tournament, but it’s not elite to get in. That’s part of the charm.”

Accessibility, Affordability, and Charity

Wimbledon’s resale system isn’t just about savings — it also serves a purpose. All resale proceeds go to charity through the Wimbledon Foundation. In just the first three days of the 2025 tournament, the program raised nearly $80,000, contributing to a total of $300,000 in 2024.

“It’s about making tennis more accessible,” said Wimbledon operations manager Michelle Dite. “We’re literally selling the same ticket twice — but to benefit fans and the community.”

Real Fans, Real Deals

Chen Pinjung, fresh out of medical school in Taiwan, waited in line for six hours, paid £30 ($40) for a grounds pass, and later scored a seat on No. 1 Court to see 2022 champion Elena Rybakina for just £10 ($13) — instead of the regular $150.

“If everyone knew how this worked, everyone would try it,” said Rafael Garcia, a fan who attended with his girlfriend and her brother. “Last year, we saw the resale booth but didn’t know how it worked. Now we’ll be ready.”

Final Thoughts: The Best Deal in Tennis?

With Wimbledon making it easier than ever to watch world-class tennis at a fraction of the price, the message is clear: You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the best of the sport.

Whether you’re dreaming of seeing Carlos Alcaraz, Elena Rybakina, or the next big star on Centre Court, the resale program offers an unforgettable experience — without the sky-high price tag.

Source: AP News  – Want to see tennis stars like Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon’s Centre Court for $20? Here’s how

The post Wimbledon’s Secret Deal: See Tennis Stars Like Alcaraz for a Fraction of the Price appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The era of post-pandemic revenge travel — when Americans rushed to book long-postponed vacations — is officially cooling off. And it’s not just rising prices that are making people think twice. From economic fears to geopolitical concerns, a growing number of travelers are pressing pause on their getaway plans.

Why One Couple Canceled Their Dream Cruise

Francisco Ayala and his wife were looking forward to a cruise to see the Northern Lights. But as the year unfolded, they decided to cancel. The reasons? A mix of fear, frustration, and financial uncertainty.

Though both are U.S. citizens — Ayala by birth, his wife by naturalization — they worried about the increased reports of Americans being questioned or delayed at U.S. borders, even those with legal status.

“There’s just too much uncertainty,” Ayala explained. “It doesn’t feel worth the risk for a trip that’s supposed to be fun.”

He’s also keeping a close eye on the economy. “The moment I saw the market volatility, I thought — this isn’t going to end well.”

Travel Experts Are Seeing the Shift

Ayala’s story reflects a broader trend. Travel advisers across the country are hearing similar concerns. In a recent survey by TravelAge West, more than 80% of 460 advisers said they were worried about how a potential economic downturn would impact business. Over half were especially concerned about government policies affecting travel.

Clients cited their top worries:

• Economic instability
• How Americans are treated abroad
• Safety and security
• Rising travel costs (tariffs, fuel, etc.)
• Border and immigration policies

“It’s not just about finding cheaper travel,” said Beci Mahnken, CEO of MEI-Travel. “Some clients don’t want to travel internationally — others don’t even want to leave the U.S. at all.”

Revenge Travel Hits a Wall

After four years of non-stop vacation bookings following the end of pandemic restrictions, Mahnken noticed a dramatic slowdown in early April. What triggered it? The stock market dropped sharply amid growing fears of a trade war.

“We went from a travel high to a full stop,” she said. Her agency began receiving cancellation calls and refund requests as people watched their investments plummet and hesitated to spend on luxuries.

Flight booking data backs this up. According to travel analytics firm Cirium, bookings for U.S. travelers to Europe between January and early May were down nearly 10% from last year. Flights from Europe to the U.S. dropped even more — 12%. Domestic travel in the U.S. also saw a dip of about 5%.

“It’s a pretty significant drop for such a short window,” said Cirium CEO Jeremy Bowen. “It suggests people are holding off, waiting to see how things shake out.”

Booking Behavior Is Changing

Still, Americans haven’t given up on summer entirely.

Deloitte’s 2025 Summer Travel Survey shows a 5% increase in Americans planning trips this summer. But what they’re booking has changed: fewer flights, more road trips, and a focus on short-term, flexible plans.

“People are booking closer to their departure dates,” Mahnken said. “They feel more confident about the next few months, but they’re hesitant to commit to something eight to twelve months out.”

Strategic Travel Over Spontaneous Vacations

Ayala and his wife canceled their Alaska cruise, which would have departed from Canada, after seeing travel warnings from some European countries about entering the U.S. But they’re still attending two family weddings in Mexico this year.

Even then, Ayala admits he’s nervous about returning to the U.S. “I dread the reentry,” he said. “There’s a non-zero chance I get delayed or questioned because of my name. That’s not something I want to risk for a vacation — but for family? That’s worth it.”

Opportunities for Last-Minute Deals

The shift in travel behavior is opening up new opportunities — especially for flexible travelers.

Tiffany Funk, co-founder of travel rewards site point.me, says now is the time to cash in on loyalty points. “They’re worth more now than they’ll be later, and can take you farther internationally than domestically.”

Some domestic hotspots — once booked years in advance — now have last-minute availability. “Places like Maine or New England’s coast are surprisingly open right now,” Funk said. “Even family destinations like Florida’s Gulf Coast are offering deals.”

Cruise lines, still trying to fill mega-ships built before the economic slowdown, are offering deep discounts on near-term sailings. And theme parks, typically packed in the summer, are rolling out aggressive promotions to attract visitors.

“We’re seeing discounts in places that are usually sold out,” Mahnken said. “If you’re flexible, this could be your chance to score an affordable summer getaway.”

Bottom Line

While Americans aren’t giving up on travel, they’re getting more cautious. Economic jitters, shifting border policies, and global tensions have combined to reshape how — and why — people plan trips in 2025. For those willing to adapt, the slowdown might just come with silver linings: better deals, shorter planning windows, and a reminder that travel doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful.

Source: CNN – The American ‘revenge travel’ surge is over. Fear and uncertainty are big factors

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Major Shift in Southwest’s Long-Standing Policy

Southwest Airlines has announced it will begin charging customers for checked bags, ending a decades-long policy that set it apart from competitors. The change takes effect for flights booked on or after May 28 and applies to most passengers, except for those with elite status, business class tickets, or certain airline credit cards.

For years, Southwest built its brand around allowing passengers to check two bags for free, using it as a key selling point against other airlines that charge for luggage. However, executives now say the change is essential for the company’s profitability and long-term strategy.

The airline did not specify exact fees but clarified that only certain customers will continue to receive free checked luggage:

• Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members – Two free checked bags
• Business Select Fare Passengers – Two free checked bags
• A-List Members & Other Select Customers – One free checked bag
• Rapid Rewards Credit Card Holders – Credit for one checked bag
• All Other Passengers – Will be charged for checked baggage

In addition to the baggage fee introduction, Southwest also plans to introduce a new basic fare tier for budget-conscious travelers.

Southwest’s CEO Bob Jordan defended the policy shift, citing the need to attract new customer segments and return to expected profit levels.

“We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract new customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our shareholders expect,” Jordan said in a statement.

The airline has faced increasing pressure from investors to improve revenue and cut costs, with some hedge funds gaining influence on its board.

Southwest’s decision comes amid significant financial and operational challenges:

• Job Cuts – Announced plans to eliminate 1,750 jobs (15% of corporate workforce) by June, marking the first major layoffs in its 53-year history.
• Stock Performance – Despite a 9% stock jump on Tuesday, Southwest has been underperforming compared to its competitors.
• Profitability Concerns – Analysts estimate that baggage fees could generate $1.5 billion annually, but may also result in $1.8 billion in lost business from passengers who preferred Southwest for its free bags.
• Upcoming Boarding Changes – Southwest is also set to eliminate its open seating policy and introduce assigned seating in 2025, another departure from its long-standing traditions.

Industry experts believe this change could push some travelers toward competing airlines.

Delta Airlines President Glen Hauenstein commented, “Clearly, some customers chose them because of that, and now those customers are up for grabs.”

Meanwhile, many Southwest loyalists expressed disappointment. Dorothy Severson, a passenger at Chicago Midway International Airport, said, “I would rather have the free checked bags. That’s one of the main reasons I still fly Southwest.”

Southwest’s move comes amid broader economic uncertainty impacting the airline industry:

• Declining Consumer Confidence – Delta and other airlines have slashed earnings forecasts due to reduced corporate and leisure travel demand.
• Stock Market Impact – Airline stocks have taken a hit in 2024, with JetBlue down 27%, American Airlines down 32%, and United down 22%.
• Southwest’s Revised Forecast – The company now expects revenue per available seat mile to rise between 2% and 4%, a significant drop from its original projection of 5% to 7%.

Beyond baggage fees, Southwest is implementing additional changes, including:

• Red-eye flights – Expanding options for overnight travel.
• Extra legroom charges – Introducing paid seating upgrades.
• Assigned seating – Replacing the airline’s long-standing open-boarding system.

While Southwest hopes these moves will boost revenue, the big question remains: Will customers remain loyal, or will they seek alternatives?

Only time will tell how this bold shift will impact the airline’s future.

Source: AP News – At Southwest Airlines, checked bags will no longer fly for free

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Mile-High Club, Officially Approved?

A California-based hot-air balloon company is taking romance to new heights—literally. Magical Adventure Balloon Rides now offers a private “Mile-High Club” flight, inviting adventurous couples to enjoy amorous moments at 5,280 feet (1,610 meters) above the Temecula countryside.

What’s Included?

• A private balloon basket with a privacy screen separating passengers from the pilot.
• A pilot wearing protective hearing gear, focused only on flying.
• Your own bedding and music playlist for a personalized experience.
• A complimentary Champagne breakfast to celebrate the occasion.

Pricing starts at $1,400 for two passengers, with an option to bring additional guests for $159 per person in a 10-person basket. If you prefer something a little more PG-rated, the company also offers wine tours, corporate events, and family-friendly rides.

Solo Travel: The Rising Trend

Not everyone is floating on cloud nine this season, but that’s okay—solo dining and travel are more popular than ever.

With millennials and Gen Z embracing solo experiences, restaurants are seeing a rise in reservations for one. Some travelers go solo for freedom, others for convenience, but either way, it’s a trend that’s here to stay.

Solo Adventures That Inspire:

• British explorer Alice Morrison is on a five-month, 2,500-kilometer trek across Saudi Arabia, earning her the nickname “Indiana Jones for girls.”
• Jason Bennett left his life in San Francisco for Colombia, where he says his happiness is now “off the charts.”

Ski Season: Where to Save and Where to Explore

As ski season heats up, North America’s most expensive resorts are under scrutiny. But don’t worry—we’ve got budget-friendly alternatives for you.

What’s Trending on the Slopes?

• “Earning your turns” – A new ski trend encouraging skiers to climb uphill before skiing down.
• Turkey’s Kaçkar Mountains – A hidden gem for heli-skiing enthusiasts looking for untouched terrain.
• 18-year-old Nepalese mountaineer Nima Rinji Sherpa – The youngest climber to conquer the world’s highest peaks, now inspiring fellow Sherpas to aim for athletic careers.

Dancing in the Ice: Viral Ballerina Moment

A mesmerizing video of ballerina Victoria Dauberville dancing on a ship’s bow in Antarctica has gone viral—so much so that people thought it was AI-generated! Filmmaker Mathieu Forget shared how they captured this unreal yet real moment.

In Case You Missed It…

Canadians boycott US travel due to Donald Trump’s policies—“We’re keeping our money at home,” say some.

Greece’s Santorini island declares a state of emergency after earthquakes force 11,000 people to flee.

A small Japanese town is attracting movie-loving couples, but overtourism is straining the locals.

Two best friends met on vacation 30 years ago… and just recreated their iconic travel photo!

Which of these travel trends caught your eye? Let us know in the comments!

Source

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