Starwood Hotels and Resorts are on the march. They plan to average a hotel opening a week throughout 2008. Across all brands they are opening 49 hotels with 23 of the properties opening before the end of July.

Of the 23 there are 12 in North America and Mexico, Europe, Middle East and Africa have eight and three are in the Asia Pacific region. The brands represented, Sheraton, Westin, St Regis, Four Points, W Hotels, Le Meridien and the Luxury Collection are also a mixture of city hotels, beach resorts, golf resorts and spa, airport properties, convention hotels and residencies.

The first property to open this year was the Four Points by Sheraton SZR Financial Centre in Dubai and the most recent the Westin Sohna-Gurgaon near the Indian capital of New Delhi. It is Westin’s first hotel in India to go with 19 other Starwood properties either open or under construction in the country.

www.starwood.com

1/18/2008 11:19:14 AM UTC     

Best Western is scheduled to open its Mayfair Suites on March 1 in the heart of Bangkok’s fashion and shopping district.

Best Western Vice President International Operations Asia, Glenn de Souza, said, “Best Western Mayfair Suites places guests in the centre of Bangkok’s shopping paradise. It is only a few steps from the popular garment Indra Market and a quick sky train ride to Thailand’s largest luxury shopping arcade and fashion-filled walking street.”

www.bestwestern.com

1/18/2008 4:30:37 AM UTC     

Cathay Pacific has collected almost HK$10 million through its "Change for Good" 2006/2007 in-flight fundraising programme.

Most of the money collected goes to UNICEF for underprivileged children around the world. In addition, approximately HK$700,000 of this year's proceeds will be donated to the Cathay Pacific Wheelchair Bank to help local children with neuromuscular diseases.

Cathay Pacific pioneered Change for Good with UNICEF in 1991 and over the past 17 years the airline has raised over HK$81 million through the programme, in which spare change in foreign currencies is collected from passengers.

Cathay Pacific's Chief Executive, Tony Tyler said, "Change for Good is a simple yet very effective way to raise money to help improve the lives of unprivileged children, and I would like to thank our passengers for their continued support. UNICEF does a fantastic job helping young people around the world and we are pleased to be able to contribute another HK$10 million to assist their worthwhile efforts."

www.cathaypacific.com

1/18/2008 4:22:10 AM UTC     

easyjet has linked up with CITI to launch its first ever credit card, with a range of ‘introductory offers’ in the first three months.

Anyone successfully applying for the card (typical APR 16.9%) will get a free flight worth up to £40 including taxes if they spend £250. It is also offering 10% cash back on all EZY flights bought with the card in the first three months. This covers any hotels booked at the time of the flight. EZY hotels are provided by TUI Travel plc’s hotelopia.

The card also features an easyJet1-2-3 rewards programme, which awards three miles for every £1 spent on flight; two miles for every £1 spent overseas and one mile for all other purchases. Miles can then be used to buy flights, at a conversion rate of 1p per mile. They can also be cashed in every year at 0.5p per mile.

EZY currently charges £4.95 extra for a credit card booking. This fee will still apply to people using their easyJet card to book an easyJet flight.

www.easyjet.com

1/17/2008 12:08:29 PM UTC     

For today's time poor travellers, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has created 'Web-In' and 'Web-Out,' a convenient, online check-in and check-out systems available at over 100 of its North American properties through the Hyatt’s website.

A 'Check-In' button on the Hyatt.com homepage enables guests to check in via the internet after 1:00 pm on their day of arrival. Room keys may be collected from hotel-lobby kiosks at each guest's convenience.

Hyatt's 'Web-Out' option is made available through e-mail. On the morning of a scheduled departure date, the guest will receive a message to review their account with an option to proceed with check out via their PDA or laptop.

Guests will soon be able to pre-select their guestroom of choice online or at the check-in kiosk, through enhancements introduced to the 'Web-In' feature. Graphic images of floor plan layouts and room availability will make selection as simple as choosing an airline seat.

 

www.hyatt.com

Hotels
1/17/2008 11:32:33 AM UTC     

Blue Air's special seat sale on flights between London Stansted and Bucharest: Tax only flights available on bookings made 16 - 27 January for travel between 01 and 29 February 2008. Fares at this special rate are limited.

www.blueair-web.com

1/17/2008 11:12:51 AM UTC     

We can confirm that flight BA038, a Boeing 777 arriving from Beijing, carried out an emergency landing at Heathrow Airport today at 12.42.  Heathrow's emergency services attended the scene.

136 passengers were immediately evacuated and taken to a reception centre at the airport.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch is attending the scene.

Heathrow Airport's southern runway was closed immediately after the incident for a period of less than 2hrs and the airport operated single runway operation during that period.  The southern runway re-opened for departing aircraft at 14:30 with arriving aircraft landing on the northern runway.

BAA is doing everything possible to minimise disruption to our passengers.

Passengers flying from Heathrow today should contact their airline regarding the status of their flight.  Air traffic control is diverting some arriving flights to other airports on a flight by flight basis.

British Airways has issued a helpline for anybody concerned about family and friends: 0800 389 4193

1/17/2008 11:09:18 AM UTC     

Oasis Hong Kong Airlines are due to complete an upgrade of their businessOasis service and products by mid-February 2008.

“These changes will really enhance the look and feel of Oasis on board, and further convince our passengers that they can receive a comparable service on Oasis, to that of other major carriers, but at a much lower price, “ said Oasis’ Chief Executive Officer Stephen Miller.

Upgrades include: Restaurant quality meal service, with meals served one course at a time. Dessert trolley featuring a selection of desserts and cheese rather than pre-plated options, amenity kits, noise cancellation headsets and a plush new heavier fleece blanket per seat.

There will also be new cutlery, crockery and glass ware and improved in-flight entertainment including six new Hollywood blockbuster movies per month.

www.oasishongkong.com

1/17/2008 10:48:45 AM UTC     

Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) today announced an increased service for its Copenhagen route, with the Heathrow operations to the Danish capital increasing from six to seven flights daily. From 30 March - 24 October 2008 the airline will operate a new daily service from London Heathrow to Copenhagen. The new service will bring the total number of return flights from London Heathrow to the Danish capital to seven per day. 

The expansion of London Heathrow services compliments SAS’ existing two daily service from London City Airport to Copenhagen and will bring the airline’s services from London to Copenhagen to nearly 60 flights a week.

SAS operate a unique one way fare structure meaning that customers can mix and match the airports they travel from. SAS customers can choose to fly out from London City and return via Heathrow according to which airport is most convenient to their home or office.

1/17/2008 7:26:53 AM UTC     

Qantas said today that the three-month delay of the 787 Dreamliner announced by Boeing would now see Jetstar not take delivery of its first B787 before May 2009.

The Chief Executive Officer of Qantas, Mr Geoff Dixon, said that while the delay would affect Jetstar’s international expansion in the short term, there would be no effect on the Qantas Group’s overall growth strategy and no impact on Qantas Group earnings. He said Qantas would finalise its contingency plans to mitigate against the delay once a revised delivery schedule was received from Boeing, which was expected within the next few weeks.

"In the meantime, we will look at a range of options including revised retirement dates for some of our aircraft, re-allocating existing capacity and potential schedule adjustments," Mr Dixon said. He said Qantas’ contractual arrangements with Boeing provided for the ability to claim liquidated damages in certain circumstances.

"We will be discussing the issue of liquidated damages with Boeing in the coming weeks," Mr Dixon said.

The Qantas Group’s commitment to the B787 extends to 115 aircraft, with 65 firm orders, 20 options and 30 purchase rights. The first 15 B787s delivered to the Qantas Group will be operated by Jetstar on international routes.

1/17/2008 7:26:09 AM UTC     

Over the last year, close to a dozen airlines have announced plans to allow passengers to send text messages from their own cell phones. Passengers in Australia, France, Turkey, Ireland, Malaysia, India, and other countries are now using mobile devices in flight, or will be able to do so sometime in 2008. However, passengers in the United States will have to wait.

While many point to interference with ground networks, or the intrusiveness of chatty seat mates, the ability to send data to the ground is allowing Middle Eastern, Asian, and European business travelers greater chances to be productive on commercial jets than U.S. fliers, who are constrained by the FCC ban on cell phones in flight.

“Independent agencies have been testing mobile devices’ interference with cockpit communications and navigation equipment for the last five years. But with live systems now installed on passenger planes in a variety of countries, there is growing operational evidence that picocell-based systems can allow phones to be used in flight without harming a ground network or an aircraft’s avionics bus,” according to David Gross, author of two reports that have looked at the matter. “We know Wi-Fi is safe, particularly with some airlines using the technology internally to connect cabin security cameras to Electronic Flight Bags in the cockpit. However, GSM and CDMA are becoming equally important as text messaging is emerging as one of the first major applications for in flight connectivity. As long as the United States maintains its current policy banning cellular antennas from being used on jets, it is allowing other countries to leap ahead with in flight productivity, while facing mounting evidence that there is no safety benefit to passengers.”

The analysis of U.S. competitiveness in the sky is part of the firm’s recent report, “In Flight Text Messaging” as well as its forthcoming study “Airborne Picocell Networks”. More information about Freesky Research and the in flight connectivity industry is available at www.freeskyresearch.com

Source:eTurboNews www.forimmediaterelease.net

1/17/2008 5:18:41 AM UTC     

As winter slowly gives way to spring, you can still enjoy a luxurious retreat with The Peninsula Hotels' great value winter getaway special offers.

Representing fantastic value and valid until 31 March 2008, indulge yourself with  Winter Escapes at The Peninsula , and select one of the exceptional benefits ranging from room upgrades, rejuvenating spa treatments, superb dining, traditional afternoon tea and airport transfers.

Or for the ultimate in comfort, experience The Suite Life at The Peninsula and enjoy an extended stay with a complimentary second night at select Peninsula hotels.

www.peninsula.com/winter_escape.html

1/17/2008 5:16:53 AM UTC     

One of, if not the most exciting Rugby Sevens event in the world, the Cathay Pacific/Credit Suisse Hong Kong Sevens has confirmed the line-up this year’s event.

The 24 teams competing in Hong Kong in this year are: Argentina, Australia, Canada, China, Chinese Taipei, England, Fiji, France, Hong Kong, Japan, Kenya, Korea, New Zealand, Portugal, Russia, Samoa, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tonga, Tunisia, USA, Wales and Zimbabwe.

The Official Tournament Draw for the Cathay Pacific/Credit Suisse Hong Kong Sevens will be held on Thursday, 14 February.

The tournament takes place on March 28 - 30, 2008 (Friday to Sunday).

www.hksevens.com

1/16/2008 4:49:37 AM UTC     

Rotana Hotels, the leading Hotel Management Company in the Middle East, announced the signing of a partnership agreement for the management of a 600 room luxury property in Marina Abu Dhabi.

The property will be located on the breakwater island development, overlooking the famed Abu Dhabi Corniche. The 600 rooms and suites property will feature, among others, a restaurant and café, meeting rooms and complete recreational areas including Bodylines health and fitness club and a swimming pool. Destined to become the focal point for tourism and recreation in Abu Dhabi, this area features an international marina and the capital's largest shopping centre, the Marina Mall. Luxury villas, apartments and an addition to the mall are also under development.

1/16/2008 4:30:47 AM UTC     

Renowned interior designer, Ceri Rocca, has helped to redesign the fleet interiors of ‘the world’s best airline’ - Cathay Pacific. Ceri has spent over a year working alongside Redditch-based transport design consultancy, Design Q, to realise a fresh, inspirational interior design concept for all First, Business and Economy class cabins across Cathay Pacific’s long haul fleet of 111 aircraft.

The designers and ergonomists redesigned the cabin spaces and developed a brand new seat, helping to enhance the flying experience for passengers in all classes. “We wanted to help create a travel environment that was almost a destination in itself, one which entertained, and fostered well-being,” explains Ceri.

We will let you the Business Travellers be the judge!

1/16/2008 4:29:42 AM UTC     

From February 1, 2008, Japan Airlines (JAL) will inaugurate reciprocal frequent flyer program agreements with China Eastern Airlines (MU) and Mexicana Airlines (MX).

The agreement will enable members of the JAL Mileage Bank, JAL’s frequent flyer program, to accumulate mileage on China Eastern Airlines’ and Mexicana's air networks　and redeem flight mileage on China Eastern Airlines and Mexicana international and domestic award tickets. China Eastern Airlines and Mexicana frequent flyer programs members will also be able to accumulate and redeem mileage on JAL’s network.

www.jal.com

1/16/2008 4:28:24 AM UTC     

Boeing’s B787 Dreamliner test flight is likely to be delayed until Jun-08, according to reports from Seattle. The B787, the most successful pre-sold aircraft in history, has reportedly continued to suffer software, supplier parts and assembly problems. The new delay would mean the B787 flies almost a year later than originally planned.

All Nippon Airways is to be the first recipient of the new aircraft, with 50 firm orders for the B787, which was to become a key part of its long term strategy.

Qantas subsidiary, Jetstar, the second scheduled recipient of the Dreamliner, is heavily reliant on the new long haul equipment for the economics of its international strategy. Further pushbacks will also delay the dramatic marketing impact of being the first low cost operator of the B787 Dreamliner. But the LCC can at least continue to use the A330s it is currently operating for its Asian services (the postponement may even prove a blessing for the Qantas Group if the parent is able to deploy some potentially excess A330 and B767ER capacity in the near term).

Japan Airlines and Singapore Airlines are other major buyers of the new aircraft to be affected; for the renewed Air India, the B787 is an important piece in its revival plans and further postponement will not be welcomed.
 
Source: Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation www.centreforaviation.com

1/16/2008 4:27:25 AM UTC     

Ryanair will set up its 25th European base at Birmingham International (BHX) in the spring with two 737-800s operating on 20 new routes to Denmark, France, Italy, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden. This will be followed by a further eight 737-800s.

It will launch flights from BHX to Girona and Pisa in April; to Marseille in May; to Billund, Bologna, Dinard, Sandefjord, Poitiers, Porto, Trieste, Reus and Rzeszow in June; and to Biarritz, Bratislava, Bydgoszcz, Gdansk, Olbia, Perpignan, Stockholm Skavsta and Trapani in July.

www.ryanair.com

1/16/2008 4:18:52 AM UTC     

Yesterday saw the launch of the new twice-daily Lufthansa service to Berlin-Tegel from London City Airport. The service will be the fastest connection available for passengers travelling between the centres of both cities.

Richard Gooding OBE, Chief Executive of London City Airport said, “We are proud to welcome the new Lufthansa Berlin-Tegel service. The connection to Germany’s capital is the perfect addition to Lufthansa’s growing network from London City Airport”.

"Today, Lufthansa has become even more attractive for its customers in the UK. Both the business and the leisure travellers will now have a speedy city-to-city connection to either take advantage of Berlin's growing function as an exhibition hotspot or to just discover its cultural attractiveness," said Dr Karsten Benz, Vice President Sales and Services Europe at Lufthansa.

Berlin is the fifth Germany city served by Lufthansa from London City Airport and complements existing routes between Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Munich.

One-way fares to Berlin-Tegel in Economy Class start from £45.00, while return fares will be available from £79.00 including taxes and charges.  Miles & More members can earn double miles on all London City to Berlin flights until 14 April 2008.

www.londoncityairport.com www.lufthansa.com

1/15/2008 10:15:57 AM UTC     

Embassy Suites Hotels, with 187 all-suite hotels in the U.S., Canada and Latin America, has announced the launch later this month of Business Balance, a new web based initiative designed specifically to help business travellers stay on their “A Game” while travelling. Accredited sources on nutrition, exercise and sleep will offer business travellers guidance and tips to help maintain balance on the road.

The site is divided into two paths: “Strength on the Road” and “Serenity on the Road.” “Strength on the Road” will feature articles and tips on keeping a strong body, a strong mind, getting the proper nutrition, looking your best and maintaining family ties while on the road. “Serenity on the Road” will offer tips for business travellers to get better sleep, reduce stress on the road and pack efficiently.

www.businessbalance.com

1/15/2008 10:02:28 AM UTC     

British Airways have introduced a new voluntary carbon offset scheme following critisicim of its previous programme.

The money from offsetting contributions goes towards supporting projects in China and Brazil and typically focuses on providing new sources of renewable energy and in promoting energy-efficiency schemes.

In addition to balancing CO2, the projects will also bring social and economic benefits to the communities in which they are based as well as helth benefits from improvements to local quality.

www.ba.com

1/15/2008 7:03:09 AM UTC     

The views of travellers on TripAdvisor's Travellers Choice Survey, have rated the UK’s 10 “dirtiest” hotels, based on their ratings for cleanliness. This year saw no less than six repeat offenders, including four from the same hotel group, Britannia. The Europa Gatwick appears on the list for the third year running. However, topping this year’s roll of grime is the Nanford Guest Hotel, Iffley Road, Oxford, which has moved up a place from its #2 ranking last year.

The Roll of Grime

1. Nanford Guest House: Iffley Road, Oxford

2. Manor Court Hotel: London, Notting Hill,

3. Britannia Hotel: Stockport

4. Europa Gatwick: Crawley

5. Whiteleaf Hotel: Inverness Terrace, London

6. Park Hotel: 64 Belgrave Road, London

7. County Hotel: Carlisle

8. Britannia Hotel Birmingham: New Street

9. Eden Plaza Hotel: South Kensington, London 

10. Britannia Country House: Manchester

www.tripadvisor.co.uk

1/15/2008 4:08:34 AM UTC     

Fourteen British establishments collected 20 awards in the biggest international hotels awards scheme of its kind, the results of which were announced today.  A total of 325 hotels around the world were honoured in the sixth year of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice competition. Unlike any other hotel awards programs that survey perhaps thousands of people, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice winners are based on the millions of real and unbiased reviews and opinions about hotels on TripAdvisor sites and content from across the web.

The Chesterfield Mayfair, in London, took the laurels for best performing British hotel. The establishment, which was a two-times winner in last year’s Traveller’s Choice has enhanced its popularity among travellers and taken awards in four categories (Top 100 Best Luxury World, Top 10 Best Luxury Europe, Best in Top 25 Destinations, Top 10 Best Service Europe).  This Regency-style town-house hotel is described by TripAdvisor travellers as “exquisite”, “beyond expectations”, “spotless”, “great value”, “peaceful retreat” in a “perfect location” with “first class service”.

Last year’s best performing British hotel in the Top 100 Best Luxury category, the Atlantic Hotel in St Brelade, Jersey, made the list again.  There were six British hotels in the 100 Best Luxury category, including the Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Dorchester, which was also ranked in the Top 10 Best Service Europe, referred to on TripAdvisor as “no better, less pretentious small hotel in England”. 

www.tripadvisor.co.uk

1/15/2008 4:07:15 AM UTC     

Online hotel booking merchant, Agoda, has released its list of top 10 boutique hotels within Southeast Asia to coincide with the start of the New Year.
 
Noting the continuing trend among travelers to choose boutique-style accommodation, Agoda CEO Michael Kenny commented, “When it comes to booking accommodation for a holiday – especially one in the tropics – many travelers choose chain hotels, because of their standardized rooms, services and facilities. However, an increasing number of travelers prefer to book smaller, personalized alternatives. Agoda’s analyses have indicated this trend is particularly evident among professional travelers between 25 to 40 years of age.”

Agoda’s Top 10 Boutique Hotels in SEA are:   

1. Kemang Icon Jakarta, Indonesia

2. The Scarlet Hotel, Singapore, Singapore

3. Dream Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

4. AKA Hotel Resort & Spa - Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan, Thailand

5. Hotel de la Paix, Siem Reap, Cambodia

6.S15 Sukhumvit Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

7. 3 Nagas – Luang Prabang, Laos

8. The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam

9. JapaMala Resort – Tioman Island, Malaysia

10. Trisara, Phuket, Thailand

www.agoda.com.

1/15/2008 4:06:04 AM UTC     

Aer Arann, has entered a franchise agreement with Nex Aviation. The franchise will add four new routes to the Aer Arann network. The new destinations are Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Malaga, and Faro. The new services will come into effect 1 May 2008 from Galway Airport and Waterford Airport.

Commenting on the announcement, Garry Cullen, Managing Director at Aer Arann, said: “This announcement represents significant route opportunity for Aer Arann. These four new destinations will provide greater choice and easier access to continental Europe for our customers in the west and south east of Ireland. In addition to the sun destinations, this route expansion offers services to Amsterdam Schiphol. Schiphol offers the best connections of any airport in the world, with more than 260 destinations in 91 countries”.

www.aerarann.com

1/14/2008 12:38:20 PM UTC     

Anyone getting up in a less than positive frame of mind this gloomy Monday may be asked, “What’s up with you this morning? Get out of the wrong side of bed?” But what is ‘the wrong side’? Boffins at Premier Inn, have settled the answer to that age-old question once and for all. They announce today that when it comes to getting out of bed, RIGHT IS WRONG and we should all be aiming to get up on the LEFT.

The conclusion was made following hot debate by experts from the fields of sleep science, Feng Shui and psychology. Dr Chris Alford, Jan Cisek and Pete Cohen studied the phenomenon and applied principles from their various fields to help Premier Inn’s team determine that the left side is in fact the right [correct] side.

Premier Inn spokesperson, Sarah Simpson, says the study was commissioned as an extension of Premier Inn’s unique ‘Good Night Guarantee’, offering guests their money back if they don’t have a good night’s sleep.

1/14/2008 11:15:22 AM UTC     

Virgin Atlantic, one of the world’s leading long-haul airlines, will fly one of its Boeing 747s on biofuel during a demonstration flight in February. It will be the first time that a commercial aircraft has run biofuel in-flight and is part of a major initiative among some airlines and Boeing to discover sources of sustainable aircraft fuel for the future.

The Virgin Atlantic 747 will fly from London Heathrow to Amsterdam on a demonstration flight, with no passengers on board, using a truly sustainable type of biofuel that doesn’t compete with food and fresh water resources. The flight, in conjunction with Boeing and engine maker GE Aviation, is part of Virgin Atlantic’s drive to reduce its environmental impact wherever possible. The demonstration forms part of Virgin Atlantic’s vision for what the aviation industry can achieve by using clean-fuel technology to reduce carbon emissions.

Virgin Atlantic became the world’s first airline to enable customers to buy their carbon offsets onboard the aircraft during a flight. Its offset programme, launched last November, is a gold standard scheme which is also available online.

www.virginatlantic.com

1/14/2008 11:14:17 AM UTC     

The Campaign for Real Ale today announces the finalists for the prestigious title of National Pub of the Year. Members of CAMRA from across the UK visited thousands of pubs before deciding on 16 regional winners. However, only four of these pubs could be put forward for the national final. The overall winner will be announced on February 15th 2008, on the eve of CAMRA’s Community Pubs Week (February 16th – 23rd).
 
The pubs up for the title of CAMRA National Pub of the year 2007 are:
 
MERSEYSIDE
Turks Head, St Helen’s, 49-51 Morley Street, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 2DQ, (01744 751289)
 
HERTFORDSHIRE
Land of Liberty, Peace and Plenty, Long Lane, Heronsgate, Hertfordshire, WD3 5BS. (01923 282226)
 
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Old Spot, Hill Road, Dursley, Gloucestershire. GL11 4JQ. (01453 542870)
 
DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY, SCOTLAND
Blue Peter Hotel, Kirkholm, Dumfries & Galloway. DG9 0NL (01776 85322)
 
CAMRA’s Director of Pubs, Julian Hough, said: “ There are around 60,000 pubs in the UK and to be named the very best is an incredible honour. Each of these pubs works tremendously hard to ensure the standard of their beer is matched only by their warm welcome. It will be exciting to see who emerges as the overall winner on February 15th.”

www.camra.org.uk

1/14/2008 8:10:04 AM UTC     

Lower back pain affects more than 70% of people living in developed countries* and for many of these sufferers the idea of travelling can be a daunting prospect.  Uncomfortable transport seating and over used or inappropriate density mattresses can cause painful aggravation to already sensitive backs. It is also thought that the quality of sleep is significantly affected when changing from one mattress to another. With this in mind Klass Vaki, specialist in back support systems, has come up with the perfect solution to help promote a restful night whilst on the move.   

Klass Vaki’s Lower Back Support is an ideal travel companion - a lightweight travel size contoured over-mattress, made from specially shaped foam panels of different densities and ergonomically designed to support the natural curvature of the spine where it would not normally be in contact with the mattress. Compared to a conventional mattress it also helps relieve tension, allowing muscles to completely relax, improves blood circulation and even reduces the heart rate, all helping to enhance sleep quality. Even non-back pain sufferers can benefit from using the support system as it greatly increases levels of comfort. 

www.klassvaki.com

1/14/2008 8:09:05 AM UTC     

We are often gobsmacked at the figures that are put out regarding China and that it is the world's fastest growing market and here is one that took our eye.

For the week long Spring Festive break, or as we know it, the Chinese New Year, the General Administration of Civil Aviation of China (CAAC) estimate that 22million passengers are likely to fly during the period.

To put that into context, Heathrow handled 68million passengers for the whole of 2007.

1/14/2008 5:55:54 AM UTC     

As the holiday season comes to a close and business travel picks up again, IHG is making it quick and easy for guests to earn up to 40,000 bonus points through Priority Club Rewards, the world’s largest hotel loyalty programme.

From 14 January to 30 April 2008, Priority Club Rewards members can earn 4,000 bonus points or 1,000 bonus miles on every second qualifying stay at any of IHG's 3,800 hotels worldwide including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Hotels and Resorts, Express by Holiday Inn™, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites.

Members can earn up to a total of 40,000 bonus points or 10,000 bonus miles. Points can be redeemed for a range of rewards including free hotel nights, shopping vouchers and quality wines.

Priority Club Rewards is free to join and members benefit from flexible features such as no points expiration, no blackout dates on reward nights, and redemption options including nights at over 500,000 hotels worldwide – even IHG's rivals’ - through the industry-leading Any Hotel, Anywhere reward.

www.priorityclub.com/4000  

1/14/2008 5:36:42 AM UTC     

British Airways is to launch flights from Heathrow to the Indian city of Hyderabad from October 27, 2008.

Hyderabad becomes the airline's sixth Indian destination joining Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai on its route network. There will be five flights each week on a Boeing 777 aircraft.

India is BA’s largest market outside North America and the Hyderabad route will increase BA’s services to 48 flights each week.

Hyderabad has a fast growing economy based on IT, business process outsourcing and biotech industries and the new route will be the only direct services between the city and the UK.

www.ba.com

1/14/2008 5:28:07 AM UTC     

www.liverpool08.com

1/11/2008 10:30:46 AM UTC     

The Rezidor Hotel Group further strengthens its Park Inn portfolio announcing three new properties in London, Bratislava and Dakar. Between 2007 and 2009 Rezidor will open 20,000 new rooms in total. “Park Inn is our dynamic, fresh and fastest growing brand”, says Kurt Ritter, President & CEO of Rezidor, “and we are especially proud to open a real flagship property in London, one of Europe’s key markets.”

The Park Inn London, Russell Square is ideally located in central London, just south of Russell Square. The hotel - formerly “The Bonnington Hotel” – comprises 214 guest rooms, a restaurant, a bar, 14 meeting rooms and a fitness area. The building is currently being fully renovated with most of the rooms being completely re-designed. Rezidor will take over the hotel and re-brand it as Park Inn effective February 1, 2008.

In Slovakia’s capital Bratislava, Rezidor has taken over the existing “Danube Hotel Bratislava” and re-branded it the Park Inn Danube. The hotel is located in the old part of the city. The third new hotel is located in Dakar (Senegal). The Park Inn Dakar will open its doors in late 2009.

1/11/2008 6:25:38 AM UTC     

VLM Airlines carried a total of 745,781 passengers in 2007 – a 9 per cent increase over 2006.  The total number of scheduled passengers increased by 6 per cent, whilst the number of passengers using the airline’s charter and wet lease flights increased sharply by 62 per cent to 47,897. 

VLM Airlines carried over 300,000 passengers on its services to and from the Netherlands in 2007 – the carrier offers flights from London City to Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Groningen, with flights from Manchester to Rotterdam as well. Demand for the airline’s frequent services to Amsterdam increased the most, with passenger numbers rising sharply by 44 per cent, with a total of 151,165 passengers carried in 2007. From the beginning of February, VLM Airlines will be adding an additional return flight on this route, bringing the total number of departures from London City to 11 every weekday.

www.flyvlm.com

1/10/2008 4:50:00 PM UTC     

Golden Tulip Hotels, Inns & Resorts and Westcord Hotels strengthen their partnership through the signing of three franchise agreements;
Two in Amsterdam and one in Leeuwarden. 

Golden Tulip Amsterdam Fashion is currently under construction and is expected to open its doors during the second quarter of 2009. The 272 room hotel will be located across the World Fashion Centre rising from the Andreas Ensemble Project, a new-built home project with French allure.

Tulip Inn Amsterdam City Centre, formerly branded under the Ramada Flag, is located in the heart of Amsterdam, five minutes walking from the Dam Square, the shopping street “Kalverstraat” and Amsterdam’s Central Station.  The hotel offers in total 106 rooms (60 standard rooms and 46 STAR rooms). Further facilities include a luxurious Coffee bar “Piazza Dóro”, a recently renovated lobby as well as internet facilities. The rooms will undergo renovation as per March 09 2008.

Golden Tulip WTC Leeuwarden is part of a 20 million euro construction project consistent of offices, the hotel and a restaurant. Located at the World Trade Centre of Leeuwarden, construction will commence on March 1st 2008 and expected to open its doors end 2009. 
The 10 storey Golden Tulip WTC Leeuwarden will offer 144 rooms in nine floors and a 10th Floor with a panoramic view of the city.

Hans Kennedie, President & CEO of Golden Tulip Hospitality Group states: “Golden Tulip WTC Leeuwarden adds an important new destination to our portfolio whilst the other two complement our existing Amsterdam portfolio comprising of ten properties.”

Harry Westers, Managing Directors of Westcord Hotels adds: “Golden Tulip’s brand recognition and its proven success track record give us the necessary tools to develop new projects in these two regions. In total Westcord Hotels franchises eight of the twelve hotels we own and operate. Our relationship with Golden Tulip has been strong and very successful, we are confident that this will continue.”

www.goldentulip.com

1/10/2008 4:47:19 PM UTC     

Langham Hotels International has officially opened its first property under a management contract. Langham Place, Eco Resort + Spa is located on the Island of Koh Lanta, in Krabi province, Southern Thailand.

The property, the group’s first resort, has 185-rooms and villas extend directly from the beach up the hillside overlooking Klong Tob Bay. It features a vast array of facilities for sporting and leisure interests including four separate pools to, an unspoilt beach, scuba diving, tennis courts and cultural tours.

www.langhamhotels.com

1/10/2008 11:46:25 AM UTC     

The UK’s leader in airport parking and holiday add-ons, issued a warning today to UK airports planning to increase cabin baggage allowances to ensure that this doesn’t impact on check-in times or security queues.  According to recently completed independent research, 55% of UK airport users say that airport processes are the worst thing about overseas travel.  This figure rises consistently with age and reaches 70% for those 65 years or more.

When asked what would make the biggest improvement to their airport experience, the top choices were: quicker check-in facilities (63%) quicker queues in security (54%) and being able to escape the crowds in an airline lounge (36%).  A larger baggage allowance was only popular with 33% of travellers (37% of women).

“We all love holidays, but getting there is a stressful experience, and queuing is a big part of that,” said Matthew Pack, Web and Marketing director, of Holiday Extras Ltd.  “The best thing airports can do to improve customer satisfaction is cut waiting times.  They must not lose sight of that whilst relaxing restrictions on hand luggage.” 

www.holidayextras.co.uk

1/10/2008 8:31:04 AM UTC     

Singapore Airlines will further expand capacity on the Singapore – Sydney route from April, with the progressive introduction of a fourth daily service, making it the first airline to operate 28 weekly flights on this popular route. The added frequency, utilizing the new Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, will be phased in from April, initially operating on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, before increasing to daily from June.

1/10/2008 8:30:02 AM UTC     

Germany’s premiere low cost airline, has announced that it will add three new destinations from it’s largest base at Cologne/Bonn airport during Summer 2008. 
The airline will operate flights twice a week to Pula, the largest town on the Croatian peninsula of Istria; three times a week to the Latvian capital of Riga and also three times a week to the French town of Bordeaux.

In addition Germanwings will add three more flights per week from Cologne/Bonn to Lisbon, taking the total number to ten; and three more flights a week to Stockholm, taking the total to nine.  New earlybird connections will make it possible to fly to the Swedish capital and return the same day on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

www.germanwings.com 

1/10/2008 4:53:47 AM UTC     

Passenger numbers at London City Airport reached a record high in 2007 with over 2.9 million  people travelling to and from the only airport in London*.

Richard Gooding OBE, Chief Executive of London City Airport, said: "the airport had a great 2007. London City Airport's convenient location, combined with fast check-in and arrival processing times, appeals to time-poor business travellers. There is no doubt that passengers all across London and the South East are waking up to the options offered by this airport; not least the attractive five minutes taken to exit the terminal from the steps of the aircraft. New services commenced during the year to Belfast, Glasgow, Groningen, Madrid, Nice, Oslo and Vienna. Additionally, the Docklands Light Railway services that commenced in December 2005 have continued to prosper with over 50 per cent of all passengers now using the link."

The popularity of London City Airport continues to grow, demonstrated by a number of new route announcements for 2008. The German national carrier, Lufthansa, will launch a twice-daily route to Berlin-Tegel Airport on 14 January, whilst British Airways will launch new routes to Nice, Barcelona, Warsaw and Amsterdam in the spring.

1/10/2008 4:52:47 AM UTC     

The Swiss premium hotel company has just signed a management agreement for two upscale hotel projects in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Both holiday resorts are already under construction and are scheduled to open by 2008 and 2009.

The 5-star Mövenpick Resort & Spa Sharm El Sheikh will open in summer 2008 over a total surface area of 103,000 sqm. The resort with its 327 spacious rooms and suites, including 30 luxury apartments, is situated in a prime location in Nabq Bay, on the shores of the Red Sea. It is a mere 7 km to Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, and the centre of Sharm El Sheikh is 15 km away. The culinary choice consists of a main restaurant with an open show cooking island, an Italian speciality restaurant, a beach front grill and lounge restaurant, and a total of four bars. The 278 sqm Cleopatra ballroom and the business centre are available for banquets and conferences.

Only 7 km from Sharm El Sheikh down town area, again in a prime beach-front location, is the Mövenpick Resort Um El Sied, which is scheduled to open in spring 2009. The 268 modern rooms are 30 to 36 sqm in size. A multifunctional conference room, three meeting rooms and a business centre are available for business executives.

1/10/2008 4:52:00 AM UTC