Real ID enforcement at Boston's Logan Airport was smooth on first day, TSA says
May 7 marks the first day of Real ID enforcement and a TSA New England spokesperson told WBZ-TV it's been a smooth day of travel for airports in the region.
Even the procrastinators made sure they had a Real ID before the policy kicked in Wednesday morning.
"Usually, I'm the last one for stuff like this," traveler Ashley Olive said. "But I got the jump on it this time."
Others arrived at Terminal A without one after struggling to get an appointment for weeks at the RMV.
"You can't get an appointment, or it says in a month or something," Areta Odiah said before going through TSA. "Honestly, it's tough."
It's a good thing she had her passport on hand - another acceptable form of identification to get through airport security checkpoints.
If you rely on your driver's license to fly domestically - it now has to be a Real ID. You can tell if it's a Real ID if there's a gold or black star on the upper right corner.
Stricter screenings for passengers without Real ID
TSA New England spokesperson Dan Velez said passengers without one will get pulled out of line for stricter screenings.
"It can include ID verification where we're going to ask you a bunch of questions to verify your identity. It could include a bag search. It could include a hand swab, pat down," Velez said. "We have different techniques that we use and it's never the same. It varies from person to person, and it also varies from airport to airport."
It's been a smooth travel day at Logan with little delays and Velez believes the weeks of reminders have helped.
"All the media attention that's been on it for the last two weeks - I'm like that's done. I'm done with that," traveler Heidi Oppel said.
Others say a passport will have to do for now.
"I will definitely get it soon," Odiah said.
May 7 isn't the deadline to get a Real ID, it's the start of enforcement. If you have a passport or another acceptable form of identification, you can use that and make an appointment for a Real ID at another date.
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CBS News
an hour ago
- CBS News
Block Island on a budget: How to make the most of your summer
Sponsored by and provided by Block Island Ferry Block Island offers a picturesque escape with its pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and charming small-town ambiance. While it may seem like a luxury destination, a trip to Block Island can be affordable with some thoughtful planning. Summertime in New England is just around the corner. Block Island is just a short ferry ride from Point Judith, Rhode Island, making it accessible and affordable to reach. Follow this guide on how to enjoy a summer vacation on Block Island without overspending and while making the most out of every moment. You know the classic jingle... "Sail away on the Block Island Ferry." The Traditional Ferry from Point Judith is the cheapest option to make the trip. There are usually nine to fifteen departure times from Point Judith per day during the summer. The Traditional Ferry is about 55 minutes, and High Speed is a half hour. For an even better deal, bring your bicycle on board for just a nominal fee, saving yourself the cost of renting a car once you're on the island. There are several paid parking lots for those who choose to drive down to the dock. Another option is the Rhode Island Public Transit's Route 69 bus, which makes the trip daily from Providence to Galilee. Once you and your crew get off the ferry, the most affordable activity is the best part of Block Island: a beach day. Access to almost all of Block Island's beaches – and beach parking – is free. Attractions like Ballard's Beach have a cover charge on the Fourth of July. Crescent Beach stays shallow for a long way out, making it a good option for walking or swimming. It has a view of town and the ferries going back and forth. Block Island also offers miles of hiking and nature trails that are open to the public. The Meadow Hill Greenway Trail is the closest to the ferry. It's about 0.4 miles and offers easy access to town. The Clay Head Preserve and Greenway Trails have views of the hills of the island as well as the ocean. Additionally, the Block Island Walking Tour starts near the ferry and provides a self-guided loop through the island's main attractions. To avoid overspending on a day trip, you may want to pack a picnic. When it comes to summer picnics, rely on easy-to-eat, heat-resistant foods. Sandwiches, cut up fruit, pasta salad, potato salad, deviled eggs, and cured meats are easy to store and will keep your crew refreshed. Make it a classic Rhode Island summer outing and enjoy your picnic on a beach or trail overlooking the ocean, or bring it to the Southeast or North Lighthouse lawns. While packing food for the day, also gather enough sunscreen and water for your group to avoid having to buy it on the island. Those looking for an overnight vacation rather than a day trip may consider a house rental on the island. Block Island hotels and inns tend to be more expensive. Most rental homes on the island offer multiple bedrooms, which makes it ideal to split the cost with friends or family. Many of the rental homes have kitchens, so you can pack food for your whole stay. Making your own meals significantly cut costs, leaving room to splurge on one or two local dining experiences. Block Island Grocery on Ocean Avenue also has prepared foods like sandwiches as well as farm-fresh produce. If you're looking for a bottle of wine to enjoy while taking in the sights and sounds of Block Island in the summertime, visit Red Bird Liquor Store. Other than going to the beach and getting some exercise, there are a few interesting options for activities. The island's beloved and quirky 1661 Exotic Animal Farm & Gardens on Spring Street is about a 9-minute walk from the ferry. It's open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and is free to the public. The farm includes rare animals to see like red kangaroos, camels, alpacas, and a zeedonk (half zebra, half donkey). Families can visit the petting zoo and get personal interactions as well as great photos of the animals. The Glass Float Project is also free and special to Block Island. Each float is numbered, dated, and often features unique designs, such as gold leaves or colored patterns, marking the first few of the season. The floats are hidden in public spaces from early summer through October, inviting both locals and visitors to partake in the treasure hunt. Finders are encouraged to register their discoveries with the Block Island Tourism Council and are asked to take only one float per year, promoting sharing and community spirit. There are also a few indoor options for those looking to get out of the sun. Museums and programs such as the Block Island Historical Society, Southeast Lighthouse tour, and the Block Island Maritime Institute offer reasonably priced admission fees. Block Island frequently hosts low or no-cost events, from farmer's markets to art exhibits. Check local listings for what's happening during your visit. About Block Island Ferry The Block Island Ferry, operated by Interstate Navigation Company, provides year-round ferry service. With a rich history dating back to 1930, the ferry is the primary transportation link for passengers, vehicles, and freight traveling to and from the island. In addition to traditional service from Point Judith, seasonal high-speed ferries operate from Newport and Fall River, Massachusetts, offering convenient and scenic options for visitors. The ferries feature inside and outside seating, air conditioning on most ferries, concessions with snacks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Block Island is ideal for families and large groups to enjoy miles of scenic hiking trails and a relaxing atmosphere for those who want to take it easy. It's one of New England's hidden treasures that offers sea, sand, and sights only a short ferry ride away. Follow The Block Island Ferry on social media to keep up to date with any changes to the ferry schedule, including holidays and inclement weather. See schedules and fares here.
CBS News
an hour ago
- CBS News
One of the best underrated getaways in the country is in Rhode Island, report says
Sponsored by and provided by Block Island Ferry One of New England's best-kept secrets is out. Block Island made the U.S. News list of most underrated getaways in the country. The hidden gem of Rhode Island made number 5 out of 26, beating Gloucester, Massachusetts and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The report highlights Block Island as a better alternative to larger local destinations like Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. While their coastal charm is tough to beat, Block Island offers a quieter, more intimate escape, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. If you're yearning for stunning ocean views, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures, Block Island is a more accessible and affordable East Coast getaway. Unlike bustling tourist spots, Block Island is refreshingly serene. The pace of life is slower, creating the perfect atmosphere to unwind and connect with nature. Getting to Block Island is easy compared to other summer vacation destinations. Traditional ferries from Point Judith in Rhode Island, New London in Connecticut, and Montauk in Long Island will get you there in under an hour. Once you arrive, you're greeted with several activities, beaches, and trails to choose from to unplug your mind from life's distractions. Picture ocean waves replacing the noises of the city, quaint locally-owned shops, and wide open landscapes. The greatest call to Block Island is its coastal location. The island boasts 17 miles of beaches, each with their own unique appeal. Crescent Beach is popular for its calm waters, ideal for families to go swimming. With views of Old Harbor in the distance, this spot is postcard-worthy. The Block Island lighthouses are beloved by many New Englanders. The Southeast Lighthouse is a great spot to bring a picnic to and take in the sights, especially at sunset. Perched atop Mohegan Bluffs, this iconic red brick lighthouse dates back to 1875. Visitors can tour the lighthouse museum and climb the tower for stunning views. Meanwhile, the North Lighthouse is ideal for adventurers and outdoor lovers. Built in 1867, it sits at the sandy tip of the island. While less imposing than its southern counterpart, it offers a quieter, peaceful setting to learn about Block Island's maritime history. Block Island is full of things to do, as mentioned in the report. While exploring the beaches and hiking trails, keep your eye on the sky. The island offers a fusion of a public scavenger hunt and an art installation known as the Glass Float Project. There are numbered and dated glass floats hidden in public spaces from early summer through October. The island offers unique experiences like the 1661 Exotic Animal Farm & Gardens at 1 Spring St., about a 9-minute walk from the ferry. The animal farm, free to the public, includes rare animals to see like red kangaroos, camels, alpacas, and a zeedonk (half zebra, half donkey). Families can visit the petting zoo and get personal interactions as well as great photos of the animals. With only about 10 square miles to cover and minimal traffic, Block Island is ideal for exploring by bike. Rent one from local shops like Island Bike and Tours, and cycle along scenic roads with ocean views at every turn. For a unique vantage point, take to the water with a kayak or paddleboard. The Great Salt Pond is a popular spot to paddle through calm waters while spotting local wildlife along the shoreline. With the charm and allure of Block Island come boutique shops you won't see anywhere else. There are several shops along Water Street, ideal for a morning stroll as many shops on the island tend to open their doors early. The Glass Onion boutique at 241 Water St. is a favorite for fashion lovers looking for stylish and relaxed beachwear. Their curated clothing selections, accessories, and jewelry reflect the coastal lifestyle. Look out for locally crafted jewelry, which makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones back home. In the Heart of Old Harbor is the Block Island Trading Company at 1 Water St., a haven for souvenirs and home goods. Step in to see trinkets like Block Island-branded apparel to nautical-themed décor and handmade soaps. Bookworms and casual readers alike will fall in love with the Island Bound Bookstore at 413 Water St. Their collection frequently highlights authors from or inspired by New England, making it both informative and local-centric. Beyond sightseeing and shopping, Block Island is known for places to eat, drink, and relax. Block Island's culinary scene reflects its coastal New England heritage, featuring plenty of fresh seafood and local ingredients. Aldo's Restaurant and Bakery are beloved spots where you can sit outside and soak up the sun. Located at 130 Chapel St., Aldo's Restaurant serves a variety of Italian and seafood favorites, all made fresh. The smell of freshly baked pastries will pull you into Aldo's Bakery next door. Other notable restaurants include Winfields at 214 Corn Neck Rd., known for its elevated take on New England classics, The Oar at 221 Jobs Hill Rd., overlooking the Great Salt Pond, serving staples like clam chowder and lobster rolls, and Dead Eye Dick's at 218 Ocean Ave., another waterfront favorite which offers fresh seafood dishes paired with local beer and wine. Perhaps the most special quality of Block Island is its sense of community. Despite its popularity during summers, the island retains a close-knit, welcoming vibe. Locals are friendly and eager to share their tips for enjoying the island like a true insider. Visiting during the off-peak season? You'll find a quieter, almost magical version of the island, where you can enjoy its quaint charm at your own pace. Block Island's blend of untouched nature, welcoming culture, and endless activities make it one of the most underrated vacation spots in the country. About Block Island Ferry The Block Island Ferry, operated by Interstate Navigation Company, provides year-round ferry service. With a rich history dating back to 1930, the ferry is the primary transportation link for passengers, vehicles, and freight traveling to and from the island. In addition to traditional service from Point Judith, seasonal high-speed ferries operate from Newport and Fall River, Massachusetts, offering convenient and scenic options for visitors. The ferries feature inside and outside seating, air conditioning on most ferries, concessions with snacks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Block Island is ideal for families and large groups to enjoy miles of scenic hiking trails and a relaxing atmosphere for those who want to take it easy. It's one of New England's hidden treasures that offers sea, sand, and sights only a short ferry ride away. Follow The Block Island Ferry on social media to keep up to date with any changes to the ferry schedule, including holidays and inclement weather. See schedules and fares here.
CNN
an hour ago
- CNN
Soak up the sun with the 19 best beach blankets experts swear by
Beach blanket quick picks Budget beach blanket: G Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket Versatile beach blanket: Slowtide Beach Blanket Bug-repelling beach blanket: Pang Wangle Tranquil with Insect Shield Beach blanket for a bigger group: Big Blanket Big Beach Blanket Packing the best beach blanket for your day in the sun is better than lugging a heavy beach chair across the sand in many ways. A beach chair is only vital if you want a nice, off-the-ground throne or have limited mobility. Still, a good beach blanket (not to be confused with a beach towel) is a better seaside seating solution to add to your beach packing list if you're prioritizing portability and space. As someone who went from testing 15 beach chairs in a row to spending most of her tropical beach vacation lounging on beach blankets, I can truly say that beach blankets are much easier to travel with or carry in your beach bag, offer a lot more space and take less effort to clean and store. If you're looking to purchase one for your summer beach days, I've got you covered. With the help of two lifelong surfers who spend a lot of their time soaking up the rays, I rounded up 19 beach blankets worth getting for the warm months. Get ready to kick off your summer sandals, slather on the best sunscreen and drop anchor. Sun Ninja Sand-Free Beach Blanket I love budget beach gear that comes with many features, and this beach blanket from Sun Ninja is exactly that. For an inexpensive option, it boasts numerous features, including corner sand pockets and stake loops for anchoring, a pocket for valuables and even a bottle opener. It's also lightweight, sand-resistant and incredibly spacious at 9 by 10 feet. A good value for your money? I'd say Time XL Outdoor Beach Blanket Available in several styles and colors, the Picnic Time Beach Blanket looks and feels more luxe than it seems, offering beachgoers a soft top side made of fleece and a water-resistant underside to minimize 'soggy bottoms.' There aren't many extra features, unlike the Sun Ninja option, but the included tote does come with a zippered pocket. If you prefer a cozier sunning experience, it's an ace. Little Unicorn Outdoor Family Picnic and Beach Blanket Although lifelong surfer and beach regular Colin Leaf said 'sand is soft enough that things like thickness of the material [don't] matter,' I'm still a fan of this beach blanket's lightly padded design. The water-resistant blanket mat comes in multiple sizes, including a 5-by-10-foot option that can accommodate the whole family and a 5-by-5-foot size with just enough space for two people. Though not as portable due to the padding, it's still easy to fold, pack and carry. Roebury Beach Blanket A slightly more affordable alternative to the Little Unicorn beach blanket is this one from Roebury. While its checkered pattern is reminiscent of that picture-perfect family picnic scene from the '50s, there's nothing antiquated about it, as it's resistant to not just sand and water but also stains, so the kids don't have to focus on avoiding spills and can just enjoy their beach day. It offers space for up to three people too. Scuddles 60-by-79-Inch Picnic Blanket Prefer something waterproof? Then this beach blanket is a great, affordable option, thanks to its waterproof underside. Even the top side has a waterproof lining that makes cleanup a breeze, especially when shaking off sand. It doesn't get in the way of comfort either, since it has a cotton top fabric and some inner padding. Another thing I love is that you can pack it into its portable form without a separate carrying case. G Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket Those seeking a bargain-basement beach blanket will love this waterproof option from G Good Gain. Lightweight yet decently spacious at 4.5 by 6.5 feet, which is ideal for couples and small families, it's a good value for your money due to its waterproof and sand-proof underside and water-resistant top side. You won't find many other features here — understandable, due to its price — but its robust design means it'll last you for years. Slowtide Out of Office Driftweave Beach Blanket 'Slowtide also has some really nice ones,' surfer and filmmaker Lucy Green said when asked about her favorite beach blankets. That includes this beach blanket line that offers plenty of space and somewhat fast-drying capabilities. Per Green's recommendation, I tested the Out of the Office model during my two-week vacation, and it was the coziest I felt during a beach excursion — so cozy that I also used it on my flight back to Los Angeles, California. Nomadix Festival Blanket I'm a big fan of Nomadix's travel-friendly, fast-drying beach towels, so I had to try its festival blanket — and I'm glad I did. Big and spacious yet highly packable, its water- and sand-resistant base made traveling with it easy since I didn't have to worry about sand and moisture contaminating the clean clothes in my carry-on. Meanwhile, its microsuede top kept things soft and cozy, and its pole loops and included stakes kept it anchored. Slowtide Gigi Lightweight Beach Blanket Perfect for two, this beach blanket from Slowtide is a great travel beach holiday accessory. I should know; I took it with me to Palawan in the Philippines, which turned out to be a wise move. This Turkish-style model may not be as soft as the Slowtide Driftweave Beach Blanket, but it proved great for beach and boat trips, especially since it dries fairly quickly, even when it's taken quite a beating during a particularly choppy and rainy boat ride. Gruff Waterproof Camping Blanket With Sherpa Fleece Though originally designed for your camping needs, this gorgeous Gruff blanket will help you stay warm and snug at the beach, especially if you're planning on wrapping beach day with a bonfire night or an overnight stay. It's all thanks to its sherpa fleece side, which allows it to moonlight as a pillow as well. Don't worry; the underside is waterproof, so you can set that on the sand without issue. Nomadix Blanket Towel I love the Nomadix Blanket Towel's relatively packable yet incredibly spacious design, and it kept my valuables protected in tidepool spots where finding a safe area for your non-waterproofed items is questionable. It's also funk-resistant, which means it can go a while without washing. I just wish it dried faster. Nomadix says it's fast-drying, but when I tested it in the Philippines, it stayed damp for a long time. Rumpl Everywhere Mat This multiuse two-person blanket from Rumpl is ingenious. It has all the makings of a great beach blanket — namely, a lightweight and extremely packable design, a waterproof base and a water- and stain-resistant top, as well as corner sand pockets and pole loops. But what I love most is its very strategic use of its extra features. One of the corner sand pockets doubles as a zippered pocket, while the bigger valuables pocket also acts as a built-in travel case. Gravel UltraPak Everyday Blanket Both Green and Leaf may prefer beach blankets that are spacious enough to accommodate at least two people, but I thought I'd throw in a personal one for folks who are attached to their personal space. This one from Gravel is incredibly lightweight, and you can pack it down to a compact size that'll fit a medium-sized purse. It's also water-repellent and decently warm, in case you want to use it as a traditional blanket. The North Face Wawona Ground Tarp If you want a more utilitarian beach blanket, there's this ground tarp from The North Face. This massive four-to-six-person option is durable enough to survive harsh desert conditions yet versatile enough to be used as a car seat or picnic table cover. Naturally, it's great for the beach too, especially with its water-resistant base. It's not the lightest, but it packs into a fairly compact form that's small enough to fit in your beach bag. Big Blanket Big Beachy Blanket The aptly named Big Beachy Blanket is heavier than most of my other picks at 4 pounds, but that's for good reason. It's massive — like space-for-up-to-six-people massive. True to its name, it's 10 by 10 feet and the ideal blanket to share with a group of friends on beach and picnic days. It's sand-resistant, quick-drying and soft to the touch too. I just wish there were extra frills since it will set you back almost $150. Rumpl Overland Mat For a two-person beach blanket, Rumpl's Overland Mat seems a little bigger than it should be when packed; it's almost the size of a packed lightweight sleeping bag. There's a reason for that, though. It pushes slightly back on portability to make space for cozy comfort with its thicker inner padding, and I'm not complaining. That makes it an even better picnic or concert blanket. Plus, it's surprisingly lightweight and boasts a waterproof base. Serena & Lily Beach House Blanket 'I love a thick cotton beach blanket,' Green said, making this cotton blend blanket with a cotton flannel fill an ideal option. It's decently spacious, nice to the touch — albeit not super luxurious — and delightfully thick so you can also use it to keep warm if you're spending the night at the beach. Luckily, it's also reversible. It's on the heavy side, but its carrying strap should make it easier to lug around. Pang Wangle Tranquil Blanket With Insect Shield Are nasty sandflies and mosquitoes a problem in your area? Well, you need this Pang Wangle beach blanket. It's infused with a mild dose of permethrin that keeps bugs at bay. Don't worry; it's EPA-approved and safe for everyone, including pregnant women. It's also soft and has zero odor, making it comfortable enough for the ultimate beach unwinding. What's more, the Khadi material it's made of is naturally cool, perfect for the warm summer months. Yeti Lowlands Blanket I get your hesitation; who wants to spend $200 on a beach blanket when there are so many excellent, affordable options? Hear me out ... The Yeti Lowlands Blanket offers the best of both worlds. It has a soft-to-the-touch top surface for comfort yet a completely waterproof, insulated and pet hair-resistant construction, just what you need for the ultimate beach relaxation. More importantly, it's durable enough to last years, making it worth the investment. As Leaf put it, you can't just 'use a blanket from your couch or bed, or something you have an emotional attachment to … I think it is important for non-beachgoers to understand sand. Once something has been in the sand for a day, it will never not have sand in it.' When purchasing a beach blanket, therefore, it's important to choose one designed for use on sand. Sand-repellence, while not a nonnegotiable, should be a top priority since 'it doesn't matter how well you shake it out or how many times you wash it,' Leaf said. 'Sand will be everywhere.' Note that some beach blankets have a dual-fabric design, with the bottom fabric boasting sand-repellent or waterproof properties. A beach blanket doesn't necessarily have to be completely waterproof, since that usually gets in the way of comfort. However, the ability to dry quickly is handy to have since beach blankets tend to be bigger than beach towels, and you don't want something that big and wet stewing in the back of your car. Additionally, an ideal beach blanket is easy to clean and built to survive all the harsh elements at the beach, like UV rays and salty water. There are also the not-so-obvious considerations. Green said she prefers something that's 'large enough to fit two people lying down or four people sitting cross-legged (great for sharing beach snacks or playing card games).' Leaf agreed, saying that it 'should be big enough for two people to comfortably sit on.' While the type of fabric isn't as important, Green also said that 'it should be heavy enough not to blow away in the wind but light enough to [be portable]. In addition, I like a darker blanket because things get dirty at the beach, and you need something that won't [get stained quickly].' The following FAQs have been answered by avid and experienced surfers Colin Leaf and Lucy Green, and include reporting done by testing and updates writer Michelle Rae Uy. What is a beach blanket? What is a beach blanket? Not to be confused with a beach towel, a beach blanket is a large blanket designed to be used at the beach and in other outdoor settings. Beach blankets often offer sand-repelling and quick-drying properties. How do you fold a beach blanket? How do you fold a beach blanket? There's no one way to fold a beach blanket. 'Any way that fits in your bag or around your neck' should suffice, Green said, while Leaf is a 'big fan of the ball-and-toss-into-the-trunk method. [There's] really no rhyme or reason to it.' What makes a beach blanket better than a beach chair? What makes a beach blanket better than a beach chair? While most beach chairs 'lock you into basically just one position … with a beach blanket, you can be on your stomach or your back, or sitting, and share it with friends,' Green said. Plus, 'a chair is more of a pain to carry around and takes up too much space in a car, or if you are taking public transportation,' Leaf said. Colin Leaf, lifelong surfer and doctoral candidate in the USC chemistry department Lucy Green, Los Angeles-based video editor who's been surfing since she was 12 CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy has years of experience covering lifestyle products and writing product reviews. She recently tested and reviewed several beach gear and summer products, writing several of our testing guides, including the best beach wagons and the best beach umbrellas. While writing this guide, she also tested beach chairs, sunscreens and several summer travel gear items.
