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Nonsmoker bonus: Air Canada will introduce an...

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<i> Compiled from staff and news service reports</i>

Nonsmoker bonus: Air Canada will introduce an entirely smoke-free environment on all flights between North America and Europe beginning Oct. 1, thus becoming the first international airline to offer only nonsmoking seats on all flights to both European and North American destinations. The airline’s decision comes almost three years in advance of a Canadian Department of Transport regulation that will require all flights on Canadian-based carriers to be completely smoke-free.

Travel trivia: Where is the oldest castle in the world located? Hint: It has 20 stories and was built in AD 100. Answer below.

Jamaica slots: The Arawak Hotel in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, has initiated gambling with three slot machines, according to Travel Weekly. It is expected that by next year, 2,000 of the one-armed bandits will be distributed throughout selected hotels on the island. Even so, gambling will not become a major focus in Jamaica, according to one source.

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Mexico alert: If you’re heading for Mexico, you should know that it’s illegal to drive a vehicle you do not own unless you carry a notarized note from the owner giving permission to take it into Mexico. That also means if your car is financed, you should request a notarized note from the financial institution. If you borrow a, be sure to get a notarized note from the owner. Vehicles in violation could be confiscated. Mexico tourism officials also remind readers that a tourist’s insurance policy is not valid if the car is driven by a Mexican national.

Guatemala update: Tourists now entering Guatemala are required to obtain a tourist card issued by the Guatemalan government. Cost is $5, and all airlines serving Guatemala are required to sell them to passengers. Should the airline neglect to issue a tourist card, there is a Guatemala Tourist Commission (INGUAT) office at Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City where they can be purchased. Visas are not required for U.S. or Canadian citizens, but a valid passport is needed.

Big Easy riders: United Cabs in New Orleans has been encouraging riders to take longer rides in cabs by allowing them to use their Visa and MasterCards for fares on local trips, city and plantation tours and, especially, airport trips. There’s a $5 minimum on all credit card charges.

Travel hot line: TWA has introduced a Worldwide Weather and Travel Information Hotline. Callers will be given currency exchange rates, visa and passport requirements, current and advance weather information and will hear an advertisement about the carrier’s various special offers. Phone number is (900) 370-8921.

Trivia answer: Gomadan, Yemen.

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