In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭 Spotlight Hook Trivia

😀 Meme of the Day

🧭 Hello, Zadar! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Croatia

✈️ As Triangle Booms, RDU Welcomes 15 Million Travelers in 2024

✈️ The Future of Air Travel: What 2025 Has in Store

🚢 CDC Reports Record Gastrointestinal Outbreaks on Cruise Ships

❤️ You’re So Sweet: Thank You, Barbara!

🏛️ Support Local Businesses

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Hello, Zadar! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Croatia

Welcome to Zadar, the heartbeat of Croatia's Dalmatian coast, where ancient history meets modern charm. Over the next five days, you’ll uncover the secrets of this coastal gem—from strolling through centuries-old Roman ruins to savoring fresh seafood by the shimmering Adriatic Sea.

For a visual companion to your five-day adventure in Zadar, Croatia, consider this comprehensive travel guide (suggestions in this video may differ from our written plan).

Video source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57_xFJXwkWM

Planning a five-day trip to Zadar, Croatia, offers a rich blend of historical exploration, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Pack your curiosity (and your beach gear)—this is a journey you’ll treasure forever!

Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Explore Zadar Old Town

• Morning: Begin at the Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic, founded by Emperor Augustus. Nearby, visit the Church of St. Donatus, a monumental round building from the 9th century in pre-Romanesque style.

• Afternoon: Climb the Bell Tower of St. Anastasia's Cathedral for panoramic views of the city. Stroll through People's Square, the traditional center of public life in Zadar, surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafés.

• Evening: Experience the Sea Organ, an architectural sound art object that plays music by way of sea waves and tubes located underneath a set of large marble steps. Stay for the sunset and enjoy the light display of the Greeting to the Sun installation.

Day 2: National Parks Adventure

• Option 1: Take a day trip to Krka National Park, known for its series of seven waterfalls and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy walking trails, boat excursions, and swimming areas.

• Option 2: Visit Paklenica National Park, a favorite among hikers and climbers, offering trails through canyons and pine forests. It's also a popular spot for rock climbing enthusiasts.

Day 3: Island Excursions

• Morning: Embark on a boat tour to the Kornati National Park, an archipelago of 89 islands, islets, and reefs, known for its clear waters and rich marine life.

• Afternoon: Relax on Saharun Beach on Dugi Otok, renowned for its white sand and turquoise sea, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Day 4: Cultural and Historical Sites

• Morning: Visit the Museum of Ancient Glass, showcasing a vast collection of Roman glassware and offering glass-blowing demonstrations.

• Afternoon: Explore the Five Wells Square, featuring five interconnected wells that once supplied the city with water during sieges. Nearby, the Captain's Tower offers insights into the city's defensive history.

• Evening: Attend a performance at the Croatian Theatre House or enjoy live music at one of the local venues to experience Zadar's vibrant arts scene.

Day 5: Outdoor Activities and Relaxation

• Morning: Kayak or canoe on the Zrmanja River, known for its clear waters and scenic canyons, offering both tranquil sections and exciting rapids.

• Afternoon: Cycle through olive groves and charming villages on Ugljan and Pašman islands, accessible by a short ferry ride from Zadar. Enjoy local cuisine at a traditional konoba (tavern).

• Evening: Conclude your trip with a leisurely walk along the Riva, Zadar's waterfront promenade, soaking in the evening ambiance and reflecting on your experiences.

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of cultural immersion, natural exploration, and relaxation, providing a comprehensive experience of Zadar and its surroundings.

Learn about more family trips built for adventurers of all ages.

Travel Guides - Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip to Zadar:

• Lonely Planet's Zadar Travel Guide: This guide offers detailed insights into Zadar's historic old town, Roman ruins, medieval churches, museums, and unique attractions like the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation. It also provides practical information on the best times to visit and popular activities in the city.

• Time Out's Zadar Travel Guide: Time Out provides an essential guide to Zadar, covering the best things to do, including recommendations for restaurants, hotels, bars, and clubs. It's a valuable resource for planning your visit and ensuring you experience the city's highlights.

As Triangle Booms, RDU Welcomes 15 Million Travelers in 2024

Raleigh-Durham International Airport experienced its busiest year ever in 2024, with an estimated 15 million travelers passing through its terminals. This record-breaking milestone highlights the airport’s role in supporting the Triangle region's growth and evolving as a major travel hub.

RDU introduced five new airlines last year, enhancing connectivity with nonstop routes to Frankfurt, Mexico City, Vancouver, and several Caribbean destinations. The airport also made strides in infrastructure, upgrading parking facilities with a new guidance system and adding 7,000 spaces to Park Economy 3.

Passengers also benefited from new dining options, including three restaurants led by notable chefs, as part of a broader plan to revamp airport dining in Terminals 1 and 2. On the operational front, RDU is replacing a 40-year-old runway, which will support increased transcontinental and international flights.

These developments position RDU to continue its upward trajectory as a leader in the aviation industry, meeting the needs of the Triangle's growing population and expanding its global reach. Read Full Report

The Future of Air Travel:
What 2025 Has in Store

Air travel in 2025 is poised for transformation, with airlines unveiling new planes, expanding international routes, and reshaping travel experiences. This new era promises innovation but comes with higher costs and more complexity for passengers.

Key Changes Coming to Air Travel in 2025

1. Expanded International Routes
   Major airlines like Delta, United, and American are introducing record-breaking transatlantic schedules with new routes connecting U.S. cities to destinations such as Greenland, Sicily, and Portugal. European travel is also expanding, with carriers like JetBlue and Etihad adding flights to Madrid, Edinburgh, and Atlanta.

2. Rising Fees and Added Paperwork
   Travel to the UK will become more expensive due to increased Air Passenger Duty and a new Electronic Travel Authorization requirement for many foreign visitors. Other regions, including Denmark and Singapore, are also increasing travel-related fees.

3. Greenland’s Tourism Boom
   Greenland will emerge as a key destination with new non-stop flights from Newark and increased service from airlines like Air Greenland and Icelandair. Enhanced airport facilities in Nuuk are paving the way for more tourism.

4. Next-Generation Aircraft
   The Airbus A321XLR will enable airlines to operate long-haul routes more efficiently. Airlines such as Iberia and JetBlue are launching routes that connect smaller cities to major international hubs, opening up previously inaccessible destinations.

5. Frequent Flyer Shake-Ups
   Airline loyalty programs continue to evolve, with passengers earning status not just through flying but also via spending. Upgrades are becoming rarer as airlines focus on selling premium seats directly.

6. Lost Luggage Becomes Obsolete
   Airlines are adopting Apple’s AirTag technology to locate misplaced bags, promising fewer lost luggage incidents.

These developments reflect the rapid evolution of the airline industry, offering travelers more options but also presenting new challenges.

Read Full Report

CDC Reports Record Gastrointestinal Outbreaks on Cruise Ships

Cruise ships, a symbol of luxury travel, faced a challenging year in 2024 as gastrointestinal illnesses surged to their highest levels in over a decade. CDC data revealed 16 outbreaks linked to U.S.-connected cruise ships, with the majority caused by the highly contagious norovirus. The virus, known for thriving in close quarters, led to hundreds of cases on vessels from major cruise lines, including Cunard, Holland America, and Princess Cruises.

Winter months typically see a rise in norovirus cases, and 2024 was no exception. Other outbreaks involved salmonella and E.coli, highlighting broader health concerns. Despite robust sanitation and health protocols, the cruise industry's measures often fell short against the persistence of norovirus, which spreads easily through contaminated surfaces and close contact.

The cruise industry has rebounded strongly after the pandemic, with millions of passengers setting sail. However, the resurgence of illnesses underscores the risks associated with confined travel environments. Passengers are urged to follow hygiene practices and reconsider travel if feeling unwell. As 2025 unfolds, it remains uncertain if this trend will continue. Read full report

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