As we closed the March issue, the entire Northeast was bracing for the “Storm of the Century” — which didn’t live up to its name, at least not in the New York/New Jersey region. Airports closed, schools and businesses shut for two days and everything came to a complete standstill. This, when we seem to have more control than ever over driving with better-equipped vehicles and the latest stormtracking systems.

I spoke to a colleague who was more prepared than anyone. He edited two documents, conducted two phone conferences, chatted at length with friends on the phone, chopped firewood and secured his home — all before noon, ahead of the pending storm. He followed this up by filling his snow blower with gas, restocking at the wine store, charging his electronics, filling the tub with water and uploading books to his Kindle. He was ready to be snowbound. But the snow didn’t really come.

For all of you whose travel was disrupted by the big New York and New Jersey “State of Non-Emergency,” I hope this issue offers you some incentive to get back to your business- or first-class seat and take to the skies. Our recap of the annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards, voted on by you, the readers of Global Traveler, offers plenty of inspiration. I can’t tell you how many times readers informed me they tried one of our winners, like Etihad Airways, due to a Global Traveler review. Dream of sunny Beverly Hills and the beautiful Peninsula hotel as you page through this issue and select some of the best airlines and hotels for your next trip.

I offer a hearty congratulations to United Airlines for winning Airline of the Year. Although mergers can be difficult processes, the carrier proved it can be done while keeping the product and customer top of mind. With its Boeing 787 Dreamliners, United offers state-of-the-art travel coupled with its MileagePlus program, voted best frequent-flyer program for 11 years.

I also hope you continue to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through Global Traveler’s annual auction and the Red & White Ball, to be held at The Westin Philadelphia March 21. Check out our silent auction page and the LLS website for the ball. An auction will also be held at the ball, which you can participate in whether or not you attend. Through a company called GiveSmart, follow the items and be alerted when you are outbid.

So shovel your way to some great flights and a wonderful cause to help cure blood cancers!