Travel News
Latest in Travel
Uber ending forced arbitration policy for sexual assault claims5/15/2018
The company is giving survivors control of how they pursue their claims
Uber has announced that it will end its use of forced arbitration agreements for claims of sexual misconduct involving employees, riders, and drivers.… continue readingBy Sarah D. Young
Uber showcases its flying taxi service concept5/9/2018
The company is working with five aerospace companies to develop the aircraft
At its second annual Elevate summit in Los Angeles this week, Uber gave a preview of what it believes air taxis could look like.One was an all-electric… continue readingBy Sarah D. Young
Lyft to offer free rides to low-income job seekers or veterans5/3/2018
The company has pledged $1.5 million to expand its Relief Rides service to include non-crisis situations
Lyft has announced that it will expand its free ride program to serve people who may need rides to job interviews or medical appointments.The ride-hail… continue readingBy Sarah D. Young
Richard Branson says hyperloop travel could soon become a reality4/30/2018
Hyperloop would allow humans and cargo to be transported significantly faster
Virgin Group CEO Richard Branson says he hopes to see hyperloop travel become a reality within three years. Branson, who chairs Virgin Hyperloop O… continue readingBy Sarah D. Young
Uber raises the bar on passenger safety4/13/2018
911 assistance, trusted contacts, and a more thorough background check on drivers are in the spotlight
Uber announced on Thursday that it’s “getting serious” about passenger safety. It’s not only amping up background checks on drivers, but its new app update… continue readingBy Gary Guthrie
Uber adds car rental, bikes, buses, and trains to its mobile app4/12/2018
The rideshare company looks to the future in hopes that the public will move away from car ownership
Uber took another step toward becoming the king of mobility-on-demand on Wednesday by integrating electric bicycle rental, public transit, and car sharing… continue readingBy Gary Guthrie
Uber enters dockless bike wars with purchase of Jump4/10/2018
The tech giant is spending a rumored $100 million on an electric, dockless bike share start-up
In its early, unregulated days as a ride-hailing company, Uber introduced itself by simply showing up in major American cities. The company soon became kno… continue readingBy Amy Martyn
Here are the best and worst times to book 2018 air travel3/21/2018
As always, booking too early or too late can be costly
If you're busy planning your summer vacation, remember that when you choose to book airfare will have a significant impact on how much you pay for tickets.… continue readingBy Mark Huffman
February, 2018
Airbnb adding hotels, luxury properties to its site2/23/2018
The company wants to become more of a full-service travel booking site
Uber launches Express Pool in more cities2/21/2018
The service offers lower fares for customers willing to walk and wait
Proposed infrastructure plan could lead to tolls on interstate highways2/12/2018
Consumers and businesses could end up paying part of the $1.2 trillion price tag
December, 2017
Holiday travelers could face weather uncertainty and canceled flights12/18/2017
But gasoline prices should be a little lower
Expedia is offering an alternative to Airbnb, and customers say it’s terrible12/12/2017
Customers asking for refunds from VRBO are rebuffed or sent to third-party sites
Travel destinations seeking a share of the holiday shopping budget12/1/2017
Gift-givers are being urged to consider experiences as well as things
November, 2017
Monterey County, California offers a winter escape11/17/2017
Wine tasting and whale watching are just some of the attractions
Earth’s 'Blue Zones' may reveal the secret to a long life11/10/2017
Five seaside destinations whose residents appear to live happier, longer lives
Food and music draw travelers to Memphis11/3/2017
From Graceland to civil rights attractions, the city has plenty to offer visitors
A record number of consumers will fly over the Thanksgiving holiday11/2/2017
Here are some tips for getting where you're going on time
October, 2017
Seattle offers visitors plenty in both business and pleasure10/27/2017
Pacific Northwest's largest city is a buzzing center of activity against a scenic backdrop
Autumn in New York is a time to take the road less traveled10/20/2017
The city offers hundreds of off-beat attractions for tourists to enjoy
Budget-savvy cruise lovers should consider a repositioning cruise10/13/2017
A repositioning cruise offers a longer voyage at a lower price
Treehouse camping offers a break from the routine10/6/2017
Accommodations range from primitive to comfortable hotel experience
September, 2017
The hotels of Miami Beach are celebrating October9/29/2017
From its popular beaches to its thriving nightlife, Miami has plenty to offer travelers
How to improve your chance of getting an airline upgrade9/29/2017
The best advice is to ask nicely and dress the part
American travelers increasingly drawn to Ireland9/22/2017
There's plenty to see and do, and airfare is cheap
Uber's license to operate denied in London9/22/2017
Transportation officials cite a 'lack of corporate responsibility' in dealing with public safety
Airbnb adds restaurant reservation feature to its app9/21/2017
Users can book a table at nearly 650 restaurants
An Autumn road trip is a colorful experience9/15/2017
From New England to Colorado, fall foliage is a big draw
Five cool things to do in New Orleans in the fall9/8/2017
The city is more fun when you can blend in with the local population
Will travel insurance pay if Irma ruins your trip?9/6/2017
Probably, but like any insurance policy, it depends
Wine is California's big draw in September9/1/2017
The state hopes to cash in on wine tourism
August, 2017
How to save money when making holiday travel plans8/30/2017
Millions of consumers have already booked flights and made accommodations
State Department warns Americans about two popular Mexican resort cities8/29/2017
Tourists urged to use caution in Cancun, Los Cabos
Southwest airlifts stranded passengers out of Houston8/28/2017
Five Southwest jets managed to lift off after the airport lost power
Uber gets a new CEO8/28/2017
Expedia chief Dara Khrosrowshahi is the reported choice
Book your Thanksgiving holiday travel now8/25/2017
Expedia says booking in the sweet spot could save you 10%
August's hot, so why aren't you in Maine?8/18/2017
The state offers great food, scenic beauty, and cool temps
Is terrorism driving an increase in travel insurance purchases?8/18/2017
Many policies would pay if travelers cancel their Barcelona trip
Five annoying things about air travel, and how to overcome them8/16/2017
Travel pros offer some advice for staying sane at 30,000 feet
North Carolina's Outer Banks welcomes back vacationers8/11/2017
Vacation spot back to normal after brief blackout
Consumers on the move to view the solar eclipse8/9/2017
Casper, Wyo., may be very crowded on August 21
For adventurous travelers, the highway beckons8/4/2017
More travelers are exploring America in RVs
July, 2017
West Virginia's New River offers a thrilling ride7/28/2017
Outfitters offer different whitewater trips to match skill levels
Feds fine three airlines for violating consumer protection rules7/24/2017
American, Delta, and Frontier were fined for a variety of misdeeds
Look out, Airbnb, Google is watching7/24/2017
The search giant could put a big dent in the vacation rental market
National Parks Senior Pass – buy yours before the price goes up7/21/2017
It provides access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites
Best-made vacation travel plans can get bumped7/21/2017
An involuntary bump could ruin an expensive trip. Here's what to do
Hotels in solar eclipse path filling up fast7/21/2017
Hotels.com reports Nebraska hotels seeing a 325% surge in searches
Hotels increasingly push loyalty programs to get customers to book directly7/19/2017
The idea is working, but chains have to be careful about giving away too much
Cool off with an Alaskan summer cruise7/14/2017
Most of the major cruise lines operate ships in Alaskan waters
United hopes new program will reduce involuntary bumping incidents7/12/2017
'YieldBoost' lets airlines buy out in-demand seats in advance
Florida settles with Avis over e-Toll fees7/12/2017
State claims consumers weren't informed about daily fee for toll pass
Island getaways where there are no cars7/8/2017
These vacations could be the perfect way to slow down
June, 2017
Five theme park attractions that should be on your bucket list6/30/2017
If you're considering a theme park vacation, these parks are worth a look
British Airways faces strike as summer travel season begins6/30/2017
Cabin crews set to walk out for 16 days, grounding thousands of long-haul flights
Cool Colorado could be the answer to a hot summer6/22/2017
The state offers diverse, outdoor fun at high elevations
Record travel expected for Independence Day6/22/2017
All types of travel cost less this year
North Korea tour companies change policies and tone down safety language6/21/2017
Otto Warmbier's death has prompted the North Korean tourism industry to stop accepting Americans
Uber drivers will soon be allowed to collect tips through the app6/21/2017
Drivers will also be paid for idle time and last-minute cancellations
Sharing economy may exclude many disabled consumers6/20/2017
Study found Airbnb hosts less likely to accept people with physical limitations
Booze, bribes and propaganda: The company that promises 'safe' travel in North Korea6/19/2017
'Gareth was pretty much blind drunk the whole time we were in the country,' says one tourist
Company that brought Otto Warmbier to North Korea says that country is 'extremely safe!'6/16/2017
At the end of his trip with Young Pioneer Tours, Warmbier was arrested and later imprisoned. Doctors now say he suffers from brain damage
Part of the fun of travel is taking side trips6/16/2017
These short excursions provide flexibility to an itinerary
Amtrak offers vacations on the rails6/9/2017
Getting there can be part of the fun
Charleston is steeped in history, but it's also a great beach town6/2/2017
With five beaches, it's a popular summer destination
Waze to roll out its ride-sharing app throughout California6/1/2017
Travelers looking for a ride can search for drivers through the Waze Carpool app starting June 6
May, 2017
Travelers to Europe may need visas for each country5/31/2017
The U.S. has failed to live up to a reciprocity agreement and Europe may retaliate
Art and travel make great companions5/26/2017
What do travel and art have in common? Increasingly, they are enjoyed together.
Senators re-introduce bill that would open Cuba to American tourism5/26/2017
Strong opposition to the measure remains, but the legislation is gaining traction
Uber admits to underpaying New York City drivers5/24/2017
The company blames a calculation error, says it will repay millions
Court frees drone hobbyists from FAA registration5/22/2017
Regulators say they are still weighing their options
May is an ideal time to visit beautiful, quirky Oregon5/19/2017
It's Oregon Wine Month and the salmon fishing is at its best
What's in the fine print of those travel agreements?5/17/2017
CheapFlights.com has read it, and found there's information that can save you money
Delta expands miles program to include Lyft rides5/17/2017
Members will get a mile for every dollar spent on the ridesharing app
U.S. may impose laptop ban on flights from Europe5/15/2017
Business travelers would be likely to rebel at having to check their laptops
For music lovers young and old, Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame beckons5/12/2017
The monument to rock music plans a busy summer
More consumers considering long weekends over vacations5/11/2017
For some, a weekend in Paris isn't out of the question
Travel prep – learning the lingo5/5/2017
No, not everyone speaks English and you don't have to either
American Airlines plans to jam a few more passengers into its newest jets5/3/2017
The Boeing 737 Max may not provide maximum seating space if American has its way
April, 2017
Postcard from Giverny, France - In the footsteps of Monet4/28/2017
A visit to the artist's home should not be missed
Some ideas for a Mom and the kids getaway4/28/2017
Travel site picks some age-appropriate destinations
Try a Staycation – vacation at home without the hassle and expense of traveling4/21/2017
Who says you have to go somewhere to relax and try new things?
Emirates cuts back flights to five American cities4/19/2017
The ban on personal electronics on incoming Middle East flights has cut bookings
Points or cash? When buying an airline ticket, it matters4/18/2017
A NerdWallet study finds points are often worth more for one-way travel
United passenger dragged off flight, tweetstorm erupts4/10/2017
United once again displays its knack for treating passengers as prisoners
When to book your summer vacation hotel4/5/2017
It's probably going to be different from when you book air travel
March, 2017
I-85 bridge collapses in Georgia3/31/2017
Collapse likely linked to intense fire
Seven popular springtime travel destinations3/28/2017
Booking.com tracks the most highly rated places to go after a long winter
Theater buff? New York, New York is your kind of place3/24/2017
Tickets can be expensive, but there are often last-minute deals available
Travel splurges that are worth it3/17/2017
Travel can be exhausting but a few little splurges can make life easier
British Airways parent launches Level, a discount trans-Atlantic carrier3/17/2017
Initial flights will be between California and Barcelona, with fares starting at $149
JetBlue eyes Europe, Air Canada hopes to 'do business' with Trump3/16/2017
International routes are becoming more competitive
Train travel – a special way to savor unique destinations3/10/2017
Trains and mountain scenery just seem to go together
Congressional bill would provide more seat room on airlines3/10/2017
Limited leg and seat room are uncomfortable and a safety hazard, sponsors say
New TSA pat-downs may be a bit more intimate3/6/2017
The agency is stepping up its security screenings following embarrassing lapses
Summer's coming and Traverse City, Michigan, is ready3/3/2017
Northern Michigan is home to sand dunes, music festivals, cherries and, yes, the Petoskey Stone
Posting reviews may discourage sharing economy discrimination3/3/2017
Study finds when hosts have more information about guests, they are less likely to discriminate
Avoid these travel insurance mistakes when you take a cruise3/3/2017
Doing the wrong things could invalidate your policy
Spirit Airlines is ranked the worst airline in America3/2/2017
Spirit Airlines is wildly unpopular among consumers, so other airlines are copying its business model
February, 2017
When is the best time to book a hotel?2/28/2017
It depends on when and where you're going
Postcard from Virginia, part II2/24/2017
Two presidential homes rooted in American history
Cuban tourism not as robust as some had hoped2/20/2017
Travel restrictions remain in effect, perhaps dissuading many travelers
Oceania's Riviera -- smooth sailing with glorious food2/17/2017
The Oceania line claims to have the finest cuisine and our reviewer agrees
How to pack for a beach vacation – when sun and sea beckon, be prepared2/10/2017
It's no fun being unprepared, so here's a list of essentials
Pet-friendly travels – why leave your beloved friend at home?2/3/2017
Traveling with your pet can add another dimension to the trip
January, 2017
Give adventure a try – what do you have to lose?1/27/2017
Even if you're not up for sky-diving or white-water rafting, there are plenty of milder adventures
Lyft adding 100 cities, hoping to loom larger in Uber's rear-view mirror1/26/2017
Both Uber and Lyft are adding additional services, like medical transportation
Global Entry – do you need it?1/20/2017
If you take even one trip outside the U.S. this year, Global Entry is well worth the cost
Uber to pay $20 million to settle exaggerated earnings claims1/20/2017
The settlement will provide refunds to drivers across the U.S.
Expedia lists top in-flight etiquette breaches1/18/2017
The chief causes of in-flight angst haven't changed all that much over the years
American joins Delta-United no-bin-space plan1/18/2017
Standing-room-only tickets may be next
Air India launching women-only rows to deter sexual assaults1/17/2017
The airline is reacting to recent incidents in which women said they were groped and harassed
Travel industry hopes Trump doesn't upset fast-growing Cuban tourism1/16/2017
Trump has said he may scrap normalization unless the U.S. gets a 'better deal'
Postcard from Virginia – Home to eight of our presidents1/16/2017
It's hard to find a state with more historic sites than Virginia
House bill would reimburse federal employees who use Uber, Lyft1/11/2017
The House passed the bill last year but the Senate failed to act
What's on your bucket list?1/6/2017
There are plenty of places to go -- which ones have you been dying to see?
Uber's 'surge pricing' may benefit both riders and drivers1/3/2017
Researchers say the pricing system increases supply during peak demand
Jazz up your travels in 20171/2/2017
Six different things to try during your travels in the coming year
December, 2016
Uber drivers cancel rides at last minute, consumers complain12/29/2016
Many say they are then charged an unjustified cancellation fee
What’s it like to sail Celebrity Cruises?12/23/2016
Would you believe 17 cruises in 10 years, each one memorable?
Winter weather travel tips to help you stay safe12/23/2016
What to do if winter weather strikes while you're on the road
Where Millennials want to travel in 201712/19/2016
New survey finds that Millennials want bucket list experiences, not just destinations
Top Destination for 2017 - Oh Canada12/16/2016
The dollar is strong and the attractions are numerous. What are you waiting for?
Postcard from Amarillo, where beef is for breakfast, lunch, and dinner12/14/2016
A popular tourist stop at the Western gateway to Texas promises free steak
Norwegian Air gets clearance for more U.S. flights12/5/2016
The cut-rate carrier's plans are bitterly opposed by U.S. airlines and labor unions
Travel gifts for the holidays – for a friend, loved one, or yourself12/2/2016
Small travel accessories make good gifts; a cruise or tour is even better
The best cities for winter travel on a budget12/2/2016
For low hotel costs and airfare, consider heading to one of these cities in January
Virgin America rated first in food, Delta and Air Canada tie for second12/1/2016
Flying Frontier? Researchers suggest you bring your own food
November, 2016
JetBlue adds Cuban flights but Trump warns he is skeptical11/29/2016
Trump says he may cut ties unless Cuba offers a 'better deal'
Postcard from the Amalfi Coast11/18/2016
The scenery and culture can take your breath away, but you might want to hold it while traveling
Qatar Airways fined for flying in restricted areas11/15/2016
FAA blocks off big swatch of NYC until after Trump's inauguration
Don't miss the charm of local markets11/11/2016
Exploring local markets can be one of the most rewarding parts of travel
Ex-flight attendant claims Horizon Air crew was drunk and disorderly11/8/2016
The captain and other crew members were out drinking until the wee hours, suit alleges
Lyft and JetBlue partnership allows rider-sharers to earn flight points11/2/2016
Users can earn up to 1,200 points per year by taking Lyft to the airport
October, 2016
Why move to Canada when Mexico beckons?10/31/2016
Despite the vilification we heap on Mexico, it is a friendly and welcoming country
Alaska-Virgin America merger challenged in class action lawsuit10/24/2016
The suit says the merger would decrease competition, raising fares and fees
How technology can help save your trip10/21/2016
Here are some handy gadgets that will help keep your travels on track
New York looks to crack down on Airbnb10/21/2016
A prospective law could mean fines of up to $7,500 for consumers who list their homes
Alaska-Virgin merger on course, according to Alaska10/18/2016
The Justice Department must approve the merger before it can be concluded
Postcard from Mount Rushmore10/14/2016
Seeing this unique monument in person is nothing like just looking at pictures
UberX and Lyft are once again illegal in Philadelphia10/7/2016
Drivers operating within the city could face fines in the future if caught
Don't put off holiday travel plans10/6/2016
Planning ahead saves both money and headaches
September, 2016
How to pack food for your airline flight9/30/2016
A freezable lunch bag lets you bring fresh food on board
Postcard from Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks9/23/2016
Wildfires, snow, bison, eagles -- it's all right there
How to pack when you can't unpack9/16/2016
Living out of a suitcase isn't easy but it can be done
What you can and can't take on an airplane9/9/2016
The FAA wants you to keep your Samsung Galaxy Note 7 out of checked bags
Up close and personal with Australian animals9/9/2016
Australia has a large collection of animals found nowhere else on earth
August, 2016
What I forgot to pack – and why I missed it8/26/2016
They may seem minor but you'll miss these small items if you forget them
Going solo on a group tour8/19/2016
Being surrounded by people you barely know isn't always fun
Air marshals will be on many Cuban flights 8/12/2016
At issue is the security being provided by Cuban airports
July, 2016
Dog sledding in Alaska – a real-life musher experience7/22/2016
It's the official state sport and there are numerous options for visitors
FAA finds 'minor' issues in review of Allegiant Air7/22/2016
The deficiencies were not 'systemic,' the agency said after its periodic audit of the carrier
The most affordable weekends for summer travel7/18/2016
When to take that end-of-summer trip and which ten cities have the cheapest lodging
Airline failed to protect unaccompanied child, lawsuit alleges7/11/2016
Thirteen-year-old girl was fondled and abused by drunken seatmate, her father charges
Private tour guides – an insider’s perspective7/1/2016
Why blunder around on your own? Get an expert to show you the sights
June, 2016
Spirit Airlines trying to improve its on-time performance6/27/2016
Low fares are great but sometimes time is money
HomeAway, VRBO service fees rile property owners and renters6/6/2016
HomeAway added the fees after it was bought by Expedia for $3.9 billion
May, 2016
Clinton, Sanders call on Obama to deny Norwegian Air Shuttle application5/20/2016
The cut-rate carrier would "decimate" U.S. airlines and destroy jobs, they argue
Near-record travel expected for Memorial Day5/19/2016
But most travelers are expected to avoid the airports
Survey: majority of travel now booked online5/10/2016
When things go wrong, 42% of travelers post a negative review
Destinations 2016 – four national and global celebrations to enjoy5/1/2016
From stone faces to flower carpets, there's a lot to see and do
April, 2016
10 mistakes to avoid when booking a cruise4/22/2016
Doing your homework before selecting a cruise ship helps ensure smooth sailing
March, 2016
Cruise ship specialty restaurants – are they worth it?3/18/2016
They offer variety and the chance to celebrate a special occasion in style
Airbnb will let you complain about noisy renters3/15/2016
It's an effort to silence complaints about loud parties and unruly guests
So many cruises, so little time -- it's up to you to pick the right one3/11/2016
Cruising is one of the best vacation values; the options are nearly endless
NightSwapping cuts the cost of leisure travel3/8/2016
Let strangers stay with you and you can stay with strangers
Price of spring break getaways going down3/4/2016
Travel industry passing on savings in competition for marketshare
February, 2016
All-you-can-drink cruise packages -- are they worth it?2/26/2016
You don't have to spend all your time drinking, but you can if you want to
Successful business travels: ten ways to keep on track2/10/2016
Being prepared will prevent disaster from striking at the worst possible moment
Cruising 101 - What you need to know before your first cruise2/5/2016
There are lots of ways to make your cruise more enjoyable but you need to do your research
November, 2015
Paris terror attacks strike fear into tourism industry 11/16/2015
Will tourists be afraid to visit France after Friday's horrific attacks?
May, 2015
Electronic toll collectors generate expensive surprises for rental-car drivers5/27/2015
You might not even know you owe money until weeks or months after the fact
Uber account hackings: a driver's point of view5/8/2015
The hackings continue, but who is to blame?
January, 2015
Frequent flyer miles stolen from American and United Airlines passengers1/13/2015
Another reminder to never use the same password across multiple accounts
Are hotels already blocking guests' wi-fi hotspots?1/2/2015
A New Jersey wi-fi blackout raises a guest's suspicions
December, 2014
Travel to New Year's Eve hot spots may be pricey12/29/2014
New Orleans and Atlantic City top the list
November, 2014
Hackers steal Hilton Hotels' loyalty program reward points11/3/2014
Check your Hilton HHonors account and any credit cards attached to it
September, 2014
Marriott reminds guests to tip the housekeeper9/15/2014
Tip-the-housekeeper initiative in conjunction with women's non-profit
August, 2014
Study: Lap infants at increased risk of death on airline flights8/4/2014
The cause is unclear and more research is needed
June, 2014
Lawsuit: Uber, Lyft unlawfully deny accessible service to disabled consumers6/3/2014
Federal law requires transportation companies to provide wheelchair access
July, 2013
How to protect expensive jewelry when you travel7/30/2013
The safe in your hotel room probably isn't going to get it done
May, 2013
More women traveling solo, statistics show5/17/2013
And the trend doesn't seem to be ending anytime soon
April, 2013
Is it still safe to go to Mexico?4/1/2013
The ongoing drug war, sexual assaults in Acapulco. Should you go?
January, 2013
Sites to help you with the all-female or all-guy vacation package 1/18/2013
AGirlsGottaGo.com and ManTripping.com make getting away with friends a little easier
August, 2012
Southwest Acknowledges Double-Booking Glitch8/6/2012
Airline issuing refunds and says it will cover resulting overdraft fees
November, 2010
Holiday Travel For Kids With Nut Allergies Tough, But Not Impossible11/24/2010
Being prepared and asking ahead will help avoid any travel-related disasters
September, 2010
Continental Airlines Adds Onboard Meals For A Price9/29/2010
Airline eliminating complimentary meals on many flights
August, 2009
U-Haul Pays $2 Million To Settle California Charges8/24/2009
State claims company ignored hazardous materials laws for years
July, 2007
Lack of Federal Funding Could Kill Amtrak7/16/2007
Bush, Congress at Odds over Budget
February, 2007
No-Smoking Laws Now Cover Half the U.S.2/6/2007
Arizona, Nevada and Ohio's new laws mark the halfway point
New $250 Tax Threatens London Air Gateway2/3/2007
Will Amsterdam Displace London as European Entry Point
November, 2006
One-Third of Women Riders Report Groping or Flashing on NY Subways11/28/2006
It's enough to make you take the bus
October, 2006
Spring Lake, NJ, Offers Solitude, History10/19/2006
August, 2006
To Miss New Orleans8/28/2006
The Beat Goes On, The Beaten Just Go
November, 2005
Enterprise Tops J.D. Powers Rental Car Rankings11/16/2005
Enterprise leads the industry for a second consecutive year
September, 2005
Delta, Northwest File for Bankruptcy9/14/2005
The number of U.S. airlines in bankruptcy has doubled
August, 2004
Florida Hotels Charged with Price Gouging8/17/2004
Gouged consumers as they fled the fury of Hurricane Charley