American Airlines employees busted for drug-smuggling

by Katie Hammel on

22 people were arrested Tuesday amidst allegations of smuggling drugs from Puerto Rico into the US on American Airlines planes. Nine of the people arrested were employees of the airline, who allegedly sent over 9,000 kilograms – almost 20,000 pounds – of cocaine to US destinations that included Miami, Orlando and New Jersey. According to the US Justice Department, the ring has been operating since 1999.

The workers are a mix of ground crew and baggage handlers who are suspected of using suitcases to smuggle the drugs onto the planes. According to the AP release, Puerto Rico is a popular entry choice for drug traffickers, as once the drugs reach the island, they don’t have to pass through customs in the US.

Agents from the FBI and DEA arrested the suspects at locations in Miami and Puerto Rico in a joint effort cleverly named “Operation Heavy Cargo”. If convicted, the suspects face life in prison and fines up to $4 million.

American Airlines issued a statement saying, “As a company, we hope that the actions of a few employees don’t reflect negatively on the tens of thousands of ethical American Airlines employees who work hard to serve the public daily.”

Photo of the day 9.07.09

by Karen Walrond on

It’s Labor Day in the US (and Labour Day in Canada), which is sort of the unofficial end of summer, and the unofficial start of autumn. And so, in honour of this day, I couldn’t help but share this vibrant shot shared by robertrex365 in the Gadling flickr pool — it just seems to capture the mood of the waning season. Well done.

If you’ve got some great travel shots you’d love to share, be sure to upload them to the Gadling pool on Flickr. We might just pick one as our Photo of the Day.

The Fabulous Lobby of El San Juan

by Annie Scott on


When I recently visited Puerto Rico, my mother and father told me I must go see the lobby of El San Juan. “You’ll feel like you’re in ‘Casablanca,'” said my mom, and Dad said that it is honestly the most beautiful hotel lobby he has ever seen — anywhere in the world. How could I resist?

When we arrived at the Isla Verde (a district of San Juan) beachfront luxury hotel, we quickly discovered there was some kind of prom going on in a ballroom somewhere, but nevertheless, the three separate lobby bars and the shops surrounding them were abuzz with all kinds of people. Silver-foxes danced to the salsa music of the live band (they were really good!), locals chatted on dates, and well-dressed tourists from all over looked comfortable, and were perhaps made a little more elegant simply by their surroundings.

Even if you’re not into the Rob Wynne -esque teardrop art or the outrageous chandelier, you will love the mahogany ceilings, the like of which I’ve never seen. I’m pretty sure that’s what my dad was talking about. There’s also an area of the lobby draped in sheer red curtains — inside is just a sitting area, but it’s made mysterious and seductive by its privacy.

I did a little research into the Waldorf Astoria Collection‘s El San Juan Hotel & Casino, and learned that it’s one of the oldest hotels in the area — it was built in 1957, and was renovated when Waldorf Astoria bought it in 1998 (with millions and millions of dollars). It features a pool with a waterfall and swim-up bar, eight restaurants, and twelve bars and lounges, as well as shopping and, as you might guess from the name, a dazzling casino.

Here are more pictures of the old school glamor and opulence you’ll find at El San Juan. You don’t even have to stay there to appreciate this lobby — I recommend stopping by on your next trip to Puerto Rico.
%Gallery-66599%

Save $400 by going to the beach … I wish it were always this easy!

by Tom Johansmeyer on

Hilton’s trying to make it as easy as possible for you to soak up the sun this summer. Its new deal in Puerto Rico will set you up with a free fourth night if you pay for three. Even better: the three nights that will cost you only start at $139 each. All in, you’re saving up to $400 a trip. Resort credits are offered for golf, dining, spa treatments and other activities.

And, it keeps getting better. You could also pick up a bonus certificate for a free night down the road if you book by July 15, 2009.

The four participating hotels are solid: El San Juan Hotel & Casino, The Waldorf Astoria Collection; El Conquistador Resort & Spa, The Waldorf Astoria Collection; Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza and Caribe Hilton, San Juan. So, it’s not like you’re being given a low price at a low-end hotel. This is strictly top shelf.

The catch? The promotion’s only good through the end of September.

Don Q – Puerto Rican Rum

by Annie Scott on

Don Q (short for Don Quixote) is a Puerto Rican rum with a rich history. What’s more, not only is Don Q Puerto Rico’s most popular rum, but it’s conveniently located just across the water from the Bacardi factory — a perfect alternative to what we understand is a boring four-hour excursion — and best of all, it’s free.

Located at Pier (Muelle) 2 in Old San Juan, Casa Don Q is a great place to visit on a trip to Puerto Rico. The walls showcase the history of Distileria Serralles, Inc., and the shop offers Don Q-emblazoned items from swim trunks to watches in display cases which change colors from green to blue.

The best part, as we said, is the free samples (please tip your bartender). You try the widely available Don Q Cristal and Gold (which may well be on the shelf at your local liquor store), or you can opt for the awesome flavored rums made with Puerto Rican coconuts, limes, and passion fruit — they’ll make you a mixed drink if you like. The true connoisseur, though, goes for The Grand Anejo Don Q (shown), which is aged twelve years and has notes of rich wood, caramel, and cinnamon. You’ll totally want to pick up a $45 bottle while you’re there — make sure you’re flying JetBlue, because you’re gonna have to check your bag (they still don’t charge for one bag).

For more information on visiting the small and simple Casa Don Q, click here — and click through the gallery for a virtual visit.
%Gallery-66130%