Why Is Sequoia National Park Famous? Know The Fun Things You Can Do At This California Wonder

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 22, 2023

AirTran Airways was an American low-cost airline originally headquartered in Orlando, Florida, which ceased operations after the acquisition of Southwest Airlines. AirTran Airways was founded in 1993 as Conquest Sun Airlines under the management of two small airlines, Destination Sun Airways and Conquest Airlines. They operated mainly Boeing 717s and 737s. It shuttled flyers around the US Midwest as well as the East Coast and stayed in business for 21 years. Why does it not operate anymore? What happened to AirTran? AirTran: A Brief Look Back Conquest Airlines' co-founder Victor Rivas was one of the founders of Conquest Sun. Who bought AirTran? AirTran Corporation in 1994 purchased the airline and renamed it AirTran Airways. It later exited from AirTran Corporation's new holding company, Airways Corporation. The holding company of ValuJet acquired the airline, and the holding company of Airways Corporation in 1997, which owned the struggling ValuJet Airlines. ValuJet's holding company became AirTran Holdings and merged with ValuJet Airlines' AirTran Airways. ValuJet Airlines, in turn, became "AirTran Airlines" before merging with AirTran Airways. Southwest Airlines acquired AirTran Airways and parent company AirTran Holdings on May 2, 2011. It gradually integrated them with AirTran's last revenue flight on December 28, 2014. It operates nearly 700 flights per day, primarily in the eastern and midwestern United States, with its main hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport serving nearly 200 daily departures. AirTran's fleet consisted of Boeing 717-200 aircraft, of which it was the largest operator in the world, and Boeing 737-700 aircraft. AirTran History Image Source: community.southwest.com This was founded in 1993 as Conquest Sun Airlines and began operations as an original Boeing 737-200 that flew to and from Orlando. AirTran Airways was founded by the management of both Destination Sun Airways and regional carrier Conquest Airlines. The founding of Destination Sun Airways is unclear. Which claims Destination Sun was founded in 1991 by former Northeastern International Airways CEO Guy Lindley and that the airline was formerly known as SunExpress and was based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Another source claimed that Destination Sun was founded in 1990 by a group of pilots, presumably former Eastern Air Lines pilots, as AirTran management later claimed that it was founded by former Eastern Air Lines employees. Rafael Rivas and Victor Rivas founded Conquest Airlines in April 1988 in Texas. Victor Rivas, one of the founders of Conquest Airlines, was also closely involved in the founding of Conquest Sun Airlines. In 1994, AirTran Corporation, the holding company of Minneapolis-based Mesaba Airlines, acquired Northwest Airlink from Northwest Airlines, with hubs in Minneapolis and Detroit. After the purchase, the airline changed from Conquest Sun Airlines to AirTran Airways to match the name of the holding company. The airline moved its headquarters to Orlando and grew to 11 Boeing 737s serving 24 cities in the eastern as well as midwestern United States, offering low-cost vacations to Orlando. In 1995, AirTran Corporation established a new subsidiary called Airways Corporation and placed it under the new subsidiary; AirTran Corporation then separated from the new Airways Corporation, becoming an independent holding that also owns AirTran Airways. After the separation, AirTran Corporation became Mesaba Holdings after its subsidiary Mesaba Airlines separated from AirTran Airways. AirTran Corporation/Mesaba Holdings then became MAIR Holdings, which liquidated in July 2012. Latest Developments On September 27, 2010, Southwest Airlines announced the acquisition of AirTran Airways and parent company AirTran Holdings for a total of $1.4 billion. The deal gave Southwest a significant presence in many AirTran hubs, including Atlanta (at the time the largest US city without Southwest service) and Milwaukee, as well as expanded service to Baltimore and Orlando. With the acquisition, Southwest added international service to several leisure destinations such as Cancún, Montego Bay, and Aruba. Southwest integrated AirTran's Boeing 737-700 series fleet with the Southwest Airlines brand and design, after which the Boeing 717 fleet leased out to Delta Air Lines beginning in mid-2013. The airlines planned to complete as well as close the deal within two years, with the two airlines operating as separate carriers in the interim. The deal closed on 2 May 2011, and the airline won a license on 1 March  2012. The full integration of all employee groups between the two airlines ended in 2015. On February 14, 2013, Southwest Airlines announced that it had entered into a codeshare agreement with AirTran. They took the first step on January 25, 2013, launching joint routes in five markets. As of February 25, 2013, Southwest continued to launch joint routes with 39 other markets. By April 2013, joint routes were to be available in all Southwest and AirTran cities (both domestic and international). Southwest announced that the integration would end on December 28, 2014, when AirTran Airways Flight 1 will be the airline's last Boeing 717-200 (N717JL) departure from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to Tampa International Airport ( TPA). The flight used the call sign "Critter" as a nod to ValuJet. This route and flight number was Valujet's first flight. Read More: Top 10 Airports In The USA: Navigating Excellence In Air Travel Reviews From AirTran Flyers Image Source: chestertravels.com AirTran has had quite a journey in all these years, and so did its passengers. Here are some of the reviews from people after their flight with AirTrans. 1st Review "I was given business class, which I was quite thrilled about. The seats are much bigger in this area and I felt comfortable the entire time. The arm rests were actually big enough for me to use as well. I was given a drink and a snack as soon as I boarded the plane - I did not have to wait like the people in coach. I was also offered more drinks and snacks throughout the flight. It is a small perk, but it is nice. It was also nice to be the first off the plane. I did not have to wait for everyone to debark first." - SharonSaver 2nd Review "I loved it! The employees were great and they even offered several snacks while in the air. It was my very first time riding on a plane, so I was kind of nervous. The Flight Attendant made me feel so relaxed and offered to sit with me if I needed it, then. Although I declined the offer, it was nice to know that an airline would go the extra mile for their customers. Every time I travel, I go with AirTran because they know how to treat you." - mrsyoung1983 3rd Review "I fly to Orlando and LAX several times a year and the only company I'll fly with is Airtrain! They are one of the few airlines that offer convenient non-stop flights from my local airport. And their flights are always more than $100 cheaper than the other airlines. Their flights are ALWAYS on time. Knock on wood here, but I've never had a delayed Airtran flight. In fact, most of my flights arrive at their destinations a few minutes early. The staff is outstanding!" - jenniandtonyx1 Wrapping Up AirTran Airways was a beloved low-cost airline that operated for 21 years. It offered affordable flights across the US Midwest as well as the East Coast. The airline's history overlaps with that of several other airlines, including Conquest Airlines, ValuJet Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. They ultimately acquired AirTran Airways and its parent company, AirTran Holdings. AirTran Airways is no longer in operation. But its legacy lives on in the hearts of many who fondly remember their journeys on this iconic airline. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is My Experience With Eva Air! This Is What I Felt About Aruba Airlines! Flair Airlines Review: This Is How I Feel About Flair Airlines! Fly In Style: Your Ultimate Guide To Lot Polish Airlines Adventures!

BY  Pijus Maity Jul 17, 2024

Summer in Rome: Every traveller knows Rome is one-of-a-kind; no wonder it is widely recognised as the Eternal City.  Aside from the timeless architecture and history that lives in all of its paths, one cannot get over its ethereal beauty. And can you blame? The city is charmed with an eternity of times you may explore and still discover something new for yourself. You never know what you will find in its most notable landmarks because there’s so much to see and do. Let us now start our guide on things to do, locations to see, and spots you may enjoy during your Roman summer break. Exploring Rome: It All Begins With A Plan… First, we will explore the remains of the Roman Forum and visit the Colosseum. It is the most famous symbol of the city of Rome worldwide.  Both the Pantheon, which is well-known for its dome, and St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City offer a panoramic view from its dome. These are evergreen destinations that never fail to leave a lasting impression and have a strong and timeless historical aura.  1. The Sistine Chapel The Sistine Chapel, which is housed at the Vatican Museums, is another must-visit ​​location. However, pay attention – reservations are required in advance. Then, take in the views from the Spanish Steps and see the Trevi Fountain. Art lovers might visit the Galleria Borghese, which features paintings by Bernini and Caravaggio, and the Capitoline Museums, which are home to antique Roman artefacts. The National Gallery of Ancient Art is situated at Palazzo Barberini as well.  2. Catacombs of San Callisto For an experience like no other, visit the Catacombs of San Callisto and walk or ride along the Appian Way. The Orange Garden will offer breathtaking sunset views of Rome, and the Baths of Caracalla will provide insight into ancient Roman public baths. Rome also has an outstanding food scene. Crispy and thin Roman pizza and classic pasta dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and gricia are examples of its traditional cuisine. Notable dishes are Carciofi alla Romana, or Roman-style artichokes, and Supplì, fried rice balls filled with cheese.  3. Relish The Roman Delicacies Also, take a chance to savour Saltimbocca alla Romana, which is veal cooked in butter and white wine with prosciutto and sage. Desserts not to be missed are classic tiramisù and maritozzo, a sweet bun filled with cream.  Take a chance to enjoy a meal at classic trattorias like Da Enzo al 29 or Armando al Pantheon, or venture to Michelin-starred restaurants like Il Pagliaccio or La Pergola for a premium experience.  4. Extraordinary Stays Of course, there are plenty of places to stay in Rome. For reasons related to transit, goods, and services, we advise selecting places close to the city centre.  Furthermore, the majority of the most well-known, highly regarded lodging options with top-notch service are found in Rome's historic centre. You may, for instance, consider the wonderful VRetreats hotels.  Rome may be chaotic, so pay attention to this step to ensure that you have the greatest holiday possible with excellent service and the ability to see all the places you want to see in less time. Here’s Your Rome Itinerary… Whether you are in the city for three days, five or a week, you need an itinerary to visit places that deserve priority. If I were to give an honest opinion, three days is fine for a tour of this ethereal destination. Here’s why: 1. Day 1 at the Palatine Hill Are you back from the Colosseum already? If so, it’s time to visit Palatine Hill and, of course, the Roman Forum. Count on me when I say this: Palatine Hill is absolutely unmissable!  Sure thing, everyone loves the Colosseum, and they’re most likely to hit their destination when they reach Rome. But why not go that extra mile to discover a not-so-hidden-gem? If you are dying for some epic views across the forum, this one destination should be on your bucket list. Welcome, home Christmas card photos dwelled with tour images.  2. Day 2 at Pane e Salame It is obvious that you should stop at a food destination with all that extra vacation stress you are carrying. I have found an incredibly amazing lunch spot in Rome, Pane e Salame. It is a paradise for those looking to gulp fresh cheese and delectable meats.  I saved some serious money on their charcuterie tray, which was the wanderer’s reward! It has got so many delicacies that you can share without feeling guilty to your friends. Also, add Aperol Spritz for that extra kick! While Venice and other north Italian cities are quite popular for their finger food-serving styles, this place does something unique. Have an amazing time at Pane e Salame and taste the authentic Italian culture in the form of food.  3. Day 3 is for a Walking Tour I will not immediately name the places, but nothing pays off like an accomplished walking tour of Rome. Art flows through every single vein of the city, and you are never going to be secluded! On this walking tour, you are most likely to cover Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Campo de Fiori, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. This tour shouldn’t take you more than an hour!  Important Consideration: These places are jam-packed with tourists. So, you can book your tickets for months with fewer tourists arriving, say during winter or autumn. Follow these tips, and you’ll be good to go! The Bottom Line So, what’s stopping you from discovering the gem of Italy? There’s literally so much to see and do in the city that boasts of art and culture.  Get ready to see something special and dine in the best places in Rome. Thank you for reading this article till the end!  We really hope we were helpful on your way to planning your vacation. Wishing you the best stay in Italia! Also read Roman Revelations: Unforgettable Things To Do In Rome, The Heart Of Italy! Find Hotels Near Rome’s Top Attractions And What Parts Of The City To Stay In. The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites.

BY  Sibashree Nov 27, 2025

Saudi Arabia is the most important destinations in Islam. Thousands of travellers from all over the world visit the holy cities of Saudi Arabia every year.  Moreover, Saudi Arabia has plenty of options to satisfy people of all ages. That is, there are beautiful sceneries, ancient historical places, and a rich culture in Saudi Arabia. It is not just a place for religious rituals. If you are going to perform Umrah or Hajj in 2026 from the USA, there are many travel agencies, such as Qiblatain, that provide Umrah Packages USA. So, if you are wondering how to make the perfect tour plan for Saudi Arabia, I have got you covered. In this blog, I am going to bring you the top 6 best places from Saudi Arabia, which are literally unmissable. Moreover, I will discuss the activities and tourist spots to visit while planning Saudi Arabia tours from the USA. Making it a tad bit easier for travellers. So, keep reading to know more! Top Saudi Arabia Tours From The USA Here are some of the best places to visit when you are travelling to Saudi Arabia from the USA. So, you can include them in your itinerary  1. Visit To The Makkah: Makkah is the holiest city in Saudi Arabia. Muslims visit this city to perform Hajj or Umrah.  Moreover, its stunning streets, historical places, and traditional native markets historical places fascinate tourists from all over the world. Also, a well-organized Umrah tour package by Qiblatain provides a trip to the famous attractions in Makkah, making your trip easy and convenient. For instance, Masjid al-Haram is also located in Makkah. A visit to the Kaaba and its surroundings is unforgettable. Many tourists enjoy visiting local markets and tasting local food.  Also, you can experience the culture and tradition of Saudi Arabia in Makkah; it is not just a spiritual place.  2. Discover Sacred Places In Madinah: Madinah is another important city. You can go to Masjid an-Nabawi. It is also called the mosque of the Prophet.  So, you can get insight into Islamic culture by walking around the city. Qiblatain helps you to find the main attractions and arrange your comfortable stay. Moreover, the Quba mosque is also located in Madinah, which is one of the oldest mosques in Islam. So, the people of Madinah are very hospitable and warm to tourists.  Madinah has a spiritually uplifting and peaceful atmosphere during Ramadan. Affordable Ramadan Umrah deals by Qiblatain provide guided tours to make your journey easier and memorable.  3. Uncover The Modern Attractions In Jeddah:  Jeddah is famous for its art, beaches, and lively nightlife. There are many places to visit, like  Jeddah Corinche Fakieh Aquarium Al-Shallal Theme Park Jeddah Waterfront Park Red Sea Mall Atallah Happy Land Park Nasseef House Museum. Your trip to Saudi Arabia with your family can be exciting, especially if the Jeddah trip is added to your bucket list.  Moreover, the calming breeze creates a peaceful atmosphere at the beach. That makes it a perfect place for families to unwind. After that, Al-Balad highlights the heritage, traditional houses, and cultural beauty.  So, you will find lively cafes and restaurants along its streets where tourists can enjoy local cuisine. Moreover, you can see the best of Jeddah with Qiblatain's experienced guide tours. 4. Explore And Learn More About Saudi Culture:  Saudi Arabia has a fascinating culture and traditions that attract tourists. Now, Saudi Arabia is famous for its delicious foods like Kabsa, mandi, and fresh dates. For instance, pilgrims can enjoy tasty foods in hotels and restaurants near the holy mosques. So, you can also experience Saudi culture by tasting local foods.  Also, you can visit the Nasseef House Museum to explore the history of Saudi Arabia.  Moreover, there are many exciting cultural and traditional festivals for tourists. So, many packages include cultural tours, enabling tourists to see the real life of Saudi locals.  5. Fun Outdoor Activities In Saudi Arabia For All Ages:  There are numerous fun options in Saudi Arabia for all ages. It is a perfect place for those who love outdoor activities.  Moreover, you can take a boat ride and closely watch the marine life in the Red Sea. You can also enjoy adventurous activities like hiking in the mountains, swimming, and riding in the desert.  In addition to this, families with kids can go to amusement parks for thrill rides and play activities.  Also, after a hectic day or a long flight, you can go to the beach for relaxation. These fun activities will make your spiritual journey memorable. Qiblatain can add these activities to your travel plan.  6. Visit Local Markets: The markets of Saudi Arabia are known as souks. You can find everything in these local markets. You can buy gifts for your family, friends, and loved ones. Also, you can buy  Perfumes and Oud Spices and herbs Handmade jewelry Dates and sweets Traditional clothing A visit to these local markets enables you to better understand the country beyond its modern skyline.  Moreover, each destination is filled with hospitable shopkeepers, local stories, and items that hold cultural value.  There are many international brands in Red Sea Mall. So, affordable Ramadan Umrah Packages by Qiblatain offer guided shopping tours, which help pilgrims to find affordable and authentic items.  Saudi Arabia Tours From The USA That You Just Can’t Miss! You enjoy the real essence of Saudi culture through proper planning. Ensure that all essential services are included in Umrah tour packages before booking.  Moreover, Qiblatain provides professional guidance for trip planning. You can avoid last-minute stress by early planning.  There are many activities to do for USA travellers. So, you can explore the real essence of Saudi culture by doing various activities.  Also, Saudi Arabia mixes past traditions with modern developments. So, using affordable Ramadan Umrah deals by Qiblatain assures a smooth and memorable trip. That is, Saudi Arabia provides experiences you will never forget.