News and trends from around the web...

Most Affordable Fall Foliage Towns
Many of these towns offer good value in a place where you can relax. Read the full story from Travel + Leisure and find them with TripTik Travel Planner.

Where Do Airline Codes Come From?
Some codes reflect a sense of humor, while others have their basis in local history. The assignment of airport codes is administered by the Montreal-based International Air Transport Association (IATA), covering locations (mainly airports) around the globe. Full story from ABC News  
Oktoberfest Celebrates 200 Years of Downing Beer
The annual German festival of beer known around the globe runs from September 18 to October 4 and is the largest festival in the world. Read the full story from CNN  and find a fall event closer to home with AAA's Event Search.

Ritz Carlton to Offer Rewards
Ritz-Carlton (many of which are Five Diamond hotels) will introduce a loyalty rewards program. Full story from Ehotelier.com.

Demand Tremendous for Disney Dream
The 1,250-cabin Disney Dream is scheduled to debut in late January; the long-awaited vessel is the Disney Cruise Line's first new ship since 1999. Read the full story from USA Today and find all AAA Disney vacation values at AAA.com/Disney.

Cruise Fares Up from a Year Ago
Fares for winter sailings in just about every region of the world other than the Caribbean are up from last year. read the full story from USA Today and see cruise deals at AAA.com/travel.

Cruise West Cancels Remainder of Schedule
Karen Gregory, secretary of the Federal Maritime Commission, said Cruise West’s performance bond would protect any passengers on canceled cruises scheduled to depart from U.S. ports, up to a total of $15 million. Full story from Travel Weekly
 
Early Bird Gets the Best Fare
Travelers typically book in the last 30 days before the holidays, but they can't get away with that this year.  Read the full story from CNN and search airfare at AAA.com/travel.

United, Continental Merger Creates World’s Biggest Airline
The airlines hope that by forming a larger network, they will attract more corporate travelers and reduce costs. Full story from ABC News