New York City is one of the most popular key travel destinations for corporate travellers worldwide. The city is the center of much that’s great, dynamic and profitable in America. It is home of one of the world’s principal financial centres (i.e. anchored by Wall Street), and a popular business hub for the publishing and entertainment industry at the same time. So, it’s no surprise it features three airports, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and J. F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). As a frequent corporate traveller you probably may have flown to one of the three New York airports at some point or another. With JFK being a major international gateway to the US, this city guide aims to provide some helpful travel agents tips for corporate travellers flying to or from JFK Airport.New York JFK Facts & FiguresLocated about 25km away from Manhattan in Queens, JFK Airport is the largest airport in the state of New York and one of the busiest business travel hubs (over 50 million travellers/year) in the US and internationally. It has six operating terminals (numbered 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8; terminal 6 was demolished in 2011, Terminal 3 in 2013). Currently, the 4th runway is under redevelopment to comply with the needs of Group VI aircraft (until December 2015 as planned so far), which may cause delays, but measures are in place to minimise them, so you shouldn’t be too much affected. With more than 90 airlines arriving and departing from JFK, various business travel solutions for flights to New York can be arranged. Points of origin and destinations include places within the US, Canada, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Pacific, Australia/New Zealand, basically all over the world. The airport offers corporate travellers a choice of non-stop flights to about 100 international destinations which may prove convenient for your next business trip. However, JFK is very susceptible to weather-related delays due to its position. Corporate travellers are well advised to consider and prepare for possible thunderstorms in summer, causing delays across the US, as well as snow, icing and assorted slush throughout the winter season. For the months between June and November the risk of potential hurricanes is increased.In general, our business travel agents team advise leisure and corporate travellers to allow plenty of time for getting to and from JFK. Serious traffic incidents on the way between the city and the airport left many wondering whether they’ would be able to make it in time or miss their flight. Furthermore, don’t forget that this is America. Therefore, bear in mind that the TSA rules supreme over security checkpoints. So, take a deep breath and take maybe a book with you or something else to keep you busy. Make sure you arrive early.Useful JFK terminal facilities for corporate travellers In most public areas within most terminals, corporate travellers will conveniently find that Wi-Fi is available for free for up to 30min. You can get online near the ticket counters, boarding gates, designated work stations and food courts. The Wi-Fi access is provided by Boingo Wireless Company. If you need to use the internet for longer than 30mins., consider the following options: 1) $4.95 (£3.01, €3.77) per hour (pay as you go), 2) $7.95 (£4.83,€6.05) for unlimited access throughout a 24-hour period (day pass), 3) $9.95 (£6.04,€7.58) per month (unlimited access via a monthly subscription, to be used worldwide), or 4) if you already have a user account, simply log in using your user name and password. ATMs, currency exchange options (Lenlyn or Travelex), a rental phone shop, and more than 100 shops alongside various dining options are available at the terminals.Ground transportation services from JFK Airport to New York CityThe most convenient, stress-free way for travel from and to JFK Airport is to take the AirTrain. It is a cost efficient and helps you make sure you arrive at the airport in time, whilst avoiding possible traffic jams. You can access AirTrain services via the New York City subway system, which is also connected to the Long Island Railroad (LIRR). The journey from/to the city takes just over an hour. AirTrain is operated 24 hours on 365 days a year. Within the airport area, it connects terminals and also enables you to easily access car rental services, hotel shuttle areas and parking lots. At peak times the trains depart every 7 minutes and at off-peak times they go every 15 minutes. However, be clever in choosing your business travel route, as various routes make different stops within the airport. Good news for corporate travellers is that travel within the airport is usually free of charge. However, travel outside the airport is subject to a fee. AirTrain prices generally start from $5 (£3.04, €3.81). For more details on ticket prices are provided on the JFK Airport website under costs and tickets. If you travel via New York’s public transport network, then it is a good idea to use MetroCard, which is widely accepted and is worth to purchase for travel via subway, local trains, or buses. You can find vending machines for buying a MetroCard at Howard Beach and Jamaica Station. A good alternative for corporate travellers would be to take a taxi (for up to 4 passengers). Simply wait in the cab line for a licensed and insured cab to take you to your destination (about $52, i.e. about £31.58, €39.59, flat rate between JFK and Manhattan, excluding tips and tolls). The time for this trip should be about an hour. However, it can take much longer during rush hour.Shared-ride shuttle services are a cheaper option than taxis, but can involve a lot of waiting and being driven around New York City to drop other people off first. You can find a full list of providers on the airport authority’s website. But remember to tip appropriately, as tipping (around 20% of transfer cost) is quite common and keep in mind that bridge/tunnel tolls are not included in the shared-ride shuttle services fares. Another option is to ask your business travel company to arrange a shuttle service for your trip from and to John F. Kennedy International Airport as prices can vary greatly depending on location and number of passengers. In this way you can ensure that you are travelling with a reliable supplier.An express bus service is also available for a nominal fee from Penn Station (reachable e.g. by AirTrain or taxi). The service operates from early morning to late night, with buses running at least every half hour.The airport is also home to several car rental agencies. Leisure and corporate travellers can choose between a number of car major rental companies including Advantage, Thrifty, Dollar, Enterprise, Budget, Hertz, National and Avis.So, which mode of transport should corporate travellers choose for a trip from JFK to Newark and LaGuardia airports? Usually the best way to get to Newark Airport from JFK Airport is to simply take the AirTrain. However, if you need to travel to LaGuardia during your business trip, it we recommend to take advantage of a convenient shuttle bus service, using the free Route A (running every 10-15 minutes from 4:00am to 11:30pm) or Route B (running every 10-15 minutes from 6:00am to 2:00am). In any case, more details, also for connections to other airports, are available on the JFK Airport Connections page.Hotels near JFK AirportHotel booking services for corporate travellers flying to New York JFK AirportAlthough there are no operating hotels at JFK Airport at the moment, New York provides corporate travellers a huge choice (from budget accommodation to luxury suites) of hotels and motels, which are conveniently located nearby the airport. Most hotel accommodations nearby offer shuttle services. Alternatively you can take the AirTrain to the Federal Circle station and follow the “Courtesy Hotel Shuttles” signs. There are telephone services for the hotel courtesy shuttles located at the AirTrain Federal Circle Station and in the arrival areas of the airport terminals ($5, i.e. about £3.04, €3.81, Service Charge for making reservations). The range of motels and hotels include the Hilton*, the Courtyard* by Marriott, Hampton Inn*, Sheraton*, Hilton Garden, Comfort Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield Inn* by Marriott, Days Inn, Best Western and Howards Johnson. The ones marked by an * are also offering conference and meeting rooms for corporate events.© Copyright Flightline Travel Management Ltd. All rights reserved. All prices correct at time of publication.In part two of our New York City Airport guide we’ll provide you with some business travel agents insider tips on Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA).

Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the fastest growing cities in America. Currently, Charlotte has an estimated population of 903,211 people, the city is thriving and continues to grow rapidly. People from all over the country are moving to Charlotte. The lifestyle change is seemingly a positive one, as most people who move to Charlotte decide to stay for the long term.

Charlotte has plenty of things to do, and many attractions are within the city limits. The Queen City has a lot to offer and is one of the best cities in the nation. This is a list of attractions you should consider exploring during your time in Charlotte. The city never sleeps and there’s always something to do. It has an amazing nightlife and vibrant business district. Below are just a few of the great things to do in the Charlotte metro.

Carowinds Theme Park

Carowinds is a 407-acre amusement park with a 27-acre water park included. The amusement park spans across North Carolina and South Carolina. Although, the official park’s address is Charlotte, NC. With about 2 million attendees per year and 56 attractions, Carowinds will surely be a part of Charlotte’s landscape for years to come. It’s a great and fun place for families of all sizes and ages.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

This museum is dedicated to the sports racing phenom, NASCAR. It showcases a ton of memorabilia which includes exhibits from drivers, crew chiefs, owners, broadcasters and more who have contributed to the race car genre. The NASCAR Hall of Fame museum allow visitors to drive simulation arcade-style vehicles and race others. It’s a fun experience that the entire family can enjoy.

Sea Life Charlotte

The interactive aquarium is located inside the Concord Mills Mall. There are thousands of sea creatures in this aquatic sanctuary. Sea Life Charlotte also includes an interactive touch pool where you could physically touch starfish and other sea animals. It also has an ocean tunnel you can walk through and watch sea life. It’s a great place to take the family. This should definitely make your list if you’re visiting the Charlotte area.

The Mint Museum

The Mint Museum has two locations in Charlotte. It is an art and design museum showcasing hundreds of collections from around the world. The beauty of the exhibits are what attract people all year long. Opening in 1936, the Mint Museum was the first art museum in North Carolina. It features American art, African art, Asian art, decorative art, fashionable art, visual art, contemporary art and more.

Discovery Place Science

This is a science and technology museum located in the heart of Charlotte. The two-story facility has a rain forest, live animal exhibits, aquariums, labs and more. It’s home to the largest IMAX theater in North Carolina. Discovery Place houses an education studio meant to inspire and train STEM educators. This is a great place to learn and explore while having amazing fun.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Located in Belmont, North Carolina, in the suburbs of Charlotte, this 380-acres of botanical gardens is a delight to see. Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens has manicured gardens, woodland trails, scenic fountains, an Orchid conservatory and more. In 1991 the property was founded by Daniel J. Stowe, a retired textile executive from Belmont. This is a peaceful and serene location.

Charlotte Motorsport Speedway

Located in Concord, NC just 13 miles away from Charlotte, the Motorsport Speedway is a great place to unwind and partake in live drag car racing events. If you’re a NASCAR fan, then this is the spot for you. Enjoy the 1.5 mile oval quad and watch as cars zip by. Come out and see an amazing NASCAR race.

PNC Music Pavilion

This outdoor amphitheater in Charlotte, North Carolina has a capacity of 19,500. The venue operates a ton of popular concerts every year. It’s managed by Live nation and has a naming rights deal with PNC Bank. This is a great place to party and see live concert events. A variety of acts has graced the stage at PNC Music Pavilion in a number of genres including, but not limited to, rock, alternative, pop, country, jazz, hip hop, and R&B.

Ray’s Splash Planet

Ray’s Splash Planet is the largest water park in North Carolina. With over 29,000 square feet of space, the water park is home to eight different water attractions. Ray’s Splash Planet is a joint venture between the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, built on the campus of Irwin Academic Center. This is a family-fun park that will create memories for the entire family.

Charlotte Rail Trail

In Uptown Charlotte, you will find a 3.5-mile trail with a walkway alongside the Blue Line Light Rail train tracks. The decorative space is home to a number of outdoor artists, cafés, bars, galleries and more. With at least 2,000 pedestrians strolling the trail daily, you’ll never feel alone. Take a walk, ride a bike or sit on a park bench and watch the passerby’s. It’s a great urban experience with a health focus along the way.

Those are some of the best attractions in Charlotte, North Carolina. Regardless, if you’re young or old Charlotte has a lot to offer and one of the best places to live, work and raise a family. The city has a vibrant nightlife and beautiful skyline. With so many attractions, events and activities you’ll never have a dull day in Charlotte.