Enjoy the perfect Valentine’s Day at The Draycott Hotel!  Superbly located between Chelsea and Knightsbridge in the very heart of London, its intimate atmosphere and luxurious elegance provides the perfect romantic setting for couples looking to treat themselves to an unforgettable Valentine’s experience.

The Draycott Romance package is for an overnight stay in either a Deluxe Double or a stunning Suite with English Breakfast provided. A dozen red roses will be included in the package, not to mention luxurious, handmade, fresh cream chocolates, a bottle of chilled pink champagne and even a cuddly Draycott teddy!

The Romance package starts from £208 per person (excluding VAT) in a Deluxe Double. For an extra £40 per person couples may be upgraded to a Suite.

www.draycotthotel.com

1/22/2008 4:41:11 PM UTC     

SWISS continues to invest in its ground product and services. This afternoon saw the formal opening of three new facilities at its Zurich Airport hub. Pride of place among the new facilities goes to the new airside First Class Lounge, which offers its guests more comfort and far greater privacy. The new landside airport ticket office and the enlarged and redesigned First Class check-in lounge should also help further enhance customers’ air travel experience.

SWISS continues to invest substantial funds in revamping and expanding its airport lounge facilities. Having opened new lounges at Geneva and New York JFK, SWISS has now turned its attention to its Zurich Airport hub: for some weeks now, First Class customers and HON Circle members have been taking advantage of a new airside First Class Lounge.

www.swiss.com/uk

1/22/2008 4:38:48 PM UTC     

In its takeover of two City Hotels in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam, the Swiss premium hotel group has taken another major step in its expansion in Asia. The two existing 5-star hotels, are set to open under Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts management by the end of 2008 after a period of extensive renovations.

The Mövenpick Hotel Saigon (called Omni Saigon Hotel until June 2008) is located in the bustling Phu Nhuan district of Ho Chi Minh, in the immediate vicinity of Tan Son Nhat International Airport and the trade fair grounds. The 5-star hotel is popular with business travellers and holidaymakers alike and boasts an exceptional MICE offer for up to 350 persons. 

The Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi (formerly Guoman Hotel Hanoi) is situated in a prime city centre location in an important business district of Hanoi, 40 minutes by car from Noi Bai International Airport, and offers 150 comfortable and spacious rooms and suites.

1/22/2008 4:37:52 PM UTC     

For the perfect getaway in the most romantic month of the year, whisk your Valentine away to Jiva Hill Park Hotel near Geneva this February! Think luxury rooms, awe-inspiring views, an indulgent spa and delicious gourmet meals… this hotel has everything. And to make romancing easier than ever, Jiva Hill Park Hotel has thoughtfully created ‘My Valentine’; a package specially made to treat you and your loved one.

For just £170 per person, this package is valid from 12th February to February 16th 2008 and includes: One nights accommodation in one of the hotel’s luxurious Deluxe rooms, champagne cocktails, half a bottle of champagne and chocolates on arrival and dinner at Shamwari restaurant.

www.jivahill.com

1/22/2008 4:36:51 PM UTC     

There's a new mobile phone service available to people who want to eat only fish caught in an environmentally sustainable way.Whether in a restaurant, at the fishmonger or in the sushi bar, consumers in 17 countries can now quickly look up the latest consumption recommendations for over 4,000 sea foods.

The International Seafood Guide for mobile phones, developed by researchers in the European Union project INCOFISH, compiles all available seafood advisories and allows consumers to access them through an easy-to-use mobile phone interface. With just a few clicks, users can get advice on whether a certain seafood can be enjoyed without jeopardizing its future as a food source or harming the environment.

www.seafoodguide.mobi

1/22/2008 4:34:15 PM UTC     

Hong Kong Express Airways is delighted to announce its designation by the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department as the third Hong Kong carrier permitted to operate flights between Hong Kong and Beijing, and Hong Kong and Shanghai.

“It has always been our goal to provide services on these key routes so naturally we are overjoyed at seeing our goal realised. This is fantastic news,” said Mr. Ronnie Choi, President of Hong Kong Express Airways. “2008 will be a landmark year for Hong Kong Express Airways.”

Set to commence in the spring as part of the airline’s new summer timetable, Hong Kong Express Airways will operate double daily flights between Hong Kong and both Beijing and Shanghai.

www.hongkongexpress.com

1/22/2008 5:46:04 AM UTC     

The Great Indian Royale Express, a brand new luxury train journey is now available from leading train operator, The Luxury Trains.  Holidaymakers can travel in sumptuous style and explore some of India’s most spectacular sights on an exclusive eight-day rail journey combining the highlights of the luxury trains Palace on Wheels and Deccan Odyssey.  The first departure will be on 9 April 2008 with further departures on 3 September 2008, 10 September 2008 and 1 April 2009.

The Great Indian Royale Express offers the opportunity to experience one of the most fascinating destinations on earth encompassing a wealth of cultural heritage, stunning scenery, majestic wildlife, forts and palaces.  All of this can be enjoyed on the seven-night/eight-day train tour starting at the spectacular Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus station in Mumbai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Highlights of the itinerary include the breathtaking Ajanta and Ellora caves, also UNESCO World Heritage listed; the splendour of the desert state of Rajasthan; Bandhavgarh National Park, one of the best wildlife viewing sites in India; the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world; the “pink city” of Jaipur and Udaipur known as “the Venice of the East”.

Prices for the seven-night journey are from £2,357.00 per person based on two sharing a double cabin and include all meals, transfers and excursions.

www.theluxurytrains.com,

1/22/2008 4:40:48 AM UTC     

Cruise Critic travel experts have put together a list of the top 10 ports that should not be missed in 2008.

•    Amsterdam, Western Europe
•    Dubrovnik, Europe, Eastern Mediterranean
•    Hong Kong, Asia
•    Martinique, Southern Caribbean
•    Maui, Hawaii
•    Muscat, Middle East
•    Naples, Europe, Western Mediterranean
•    St. Petersburg, Northern Europe
•    Sydney, Australia
•    Vancouver, Alaska

www.cruisecritic.co.uk

1/22/2008 4:38:58 AM UTC     

A record number of British holidaymakers will be taking to the high seas this year as Cruise holidays experience an unprecedented boom. Where will they be going and what will they be doing - exploring the China coast or Greek islands, possibly hopping onboard a luxury cruise ship that caters to their every whim? Increased interest in European and Asian itineraries as well as luxury cruising are some of the hot cruising trends in 2008.

Europe is Booming: Because of the popularity of Europe-based cruising and the need to alleviate gridlock at the busiest ports, in 2008, cruise lines are offering more exotic itineraries than ever before. Some of these new European itineraries will include ports of call along Croatia’s coast or around the Black Sea. Also cruising during the winter months in this region will only continue to gain in popularity as more itineraries are being offered that focus on the nearby (and southerly) Canary Islands, as well as Spain’s Mediterranean coast and North Africa.

Beyond your Fare: Cruise travel has long had a reputation for being an all-inclusive experience. However, its not so all-inclusive these days as passengers spending in excess of  their fares grows for items such as casino gambling, shore excursions, art auctions, spa treatments, and more. 2008 will see more onboard spending opportunities than ever before for new items such as fine wine with dinner and a-la-carte restaurants.

Burgeoning Asia: Cruise lines are offering more opportunities to explore Asia by sea, as lines like Princess Cruises (with Sapphire Princess) and Royal Caribbean (with Rhapsody of the Seas) have moved larger ships into the market. In 2008, look for more cruise vacationers than ever to explore this region.

www.cruisecritic.co.uk

1/22/2008 4:36:35 AM UTC     

Valentines Day is near which means it’s time to treat that someone special in your life to a romantic Valentines getaway. With this romantic package you can indulge your loved one with a one night stay in one of the Royal Garden Hotel's five star luxurious rooms, either on Valentines Day or the following weekend to make that romantic evening last as long as you wish.

You will receive a chilled bottle of Champagne, fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate and a valentine's bouquet of flowers for the lady elegantly laid out in your room.

Dine in the beautiful surroundings of the Park Terrace Restaurant, adjacent to the lush open spaces of Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park giving it a spacious, calm and friendly atmosphere, the perfect setting for that most romantic evening. Top the weekend off by a having a leisurely morning with full English breakfast.

This Romantic Package costs only £250 for a Superior Room, £280 for a Deluxe Room, £320 for an Executive and Junior Suite and £420 for a Park Suite. Prices are based on two people sharing a room. This package is available from the 14th February and continuing on any following weekend.

www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk

1/21/2008 10:42:42 AM UTC     

Control of the world’s key international hubs is a key driver of structural change in the airline industry in 2008. Generally speaking, the more congested the hub, due to strong passenger demand, the greater the level of interest in airlines operating there.

The battle for control of China Eastern Airlines and the important Shanghai hub will enter a fascinating new phase tomorrow, as the details of Air China’s counteroffer are released. Earlier this month, Air China foiled Singapore Airlines’ bid to buy a minority holding.

At the weekend, some details of the “strategic partnership” emerged, including that the parents of both Air China and China Eastern would purchase new shares in the Shanghai-based carrier, lifting Air China’s parent’s interest to 30% and delivering a USD1.9 billion cash injection into China Eastern.

Cooperation would centre on the establishment of a cargo JV (potentially providing much-needed consolidation of cargo capacity in the Mainland). But most importantly, Air China would help China Eastern form an "operations hub" in Shanghai to strengthen the use of its route network and other resources.

Meanwhile, it has emerged India’s Jet Airways has expressed interest in acquiring Sir Michael Bishop’s stake in bmi, which controls 11% of the slots at London Heathrow Airport.

Virgin Atlantic Airways – another key Heathrow player – could also come up for grabs this year, as Singapore Airlines seeks to sell its 49% holding in the UK carrier. SIA’s focus these days is firmly on the Asian growth markets and on China in particular.

In the US, several lucrative hubs, including Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco, Washington DC and Detroit are in play as Northwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines consider their merger options. United will reportedly shift its attention to Continental Airlines if it is unsuccessful in brokering a deal with Delta. Lufthansa, which controls 30% minus one share of bmi, has recently acquired 19% of JetBlue, which controls approximately 30% of slots at New York’s JFK Airport – where slot auctions could soon become a reality.

Spurred by liberalisation, international airline investment strategy (of the major incumbent airlines) is increasingly becoming a game of real estate – those with the most slots at the best airports win. Little wonder airports remain the best investments in the aviation sector. 
 
SOURCE:Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation
www.centreforaviation.com

1/21/2008 6:25:29 AM UTC     

Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced that it has signed a management agreement for the Conrad Beijing; one of Beijing's newest and most spectacular luxury hotel developments. Scheduled to be open at the end of 2010, the Conrad Beijing will join Conrad Hotels & Resorts, the global contemporary luxury hotel brand of the Hilton Family of Hotels, as it expands its luxury portfolio in China.

The Conrad Beijing will be located in the city's Central Business District, close to the newly built China Central TV Tower and near to renowned tourist attractions such as the World Heritage Site, the Forbidden City and historic landmark, Tiananmen Square. The hotel will also be in close proximity to Wangfujing Street, one of China's most famous pedestrian shopping boulevards, combining contemporary boutiques with China's oldest brands and traditional tea houses. 

1/21/2008 6:24:07 AM UTC     

Qatar Airways today announced plans to serve the southern Chinese industrial port city of Guangzhou from the start of the summer flying season to further cement its position in one of the world’s fastest growing economies. Beginning March 31, Doha-based Qatar Airways will become the first airline from the Gulf to serve Guangzhou. It will operate four flights-a-week non-stop using an Airbus A330 aircraft in a two-class configuration of up to 24 seats in Business Class and a maximum 248 in Economy.

The addition of Guangzhou strengthens Qatar Airways’ China network, where it already flies to Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong with a total of 16 flights a week. Guangzhou takes the airline’s capacity into China up to 20 flights a week. From May 1, Qatar Airways adds a fifth weekly service to Guangzhou.

www.qatarairways.com

1/21/2008 6:23:28 AM UTC     

Royal Jordanian (RJ) begins operating a three flights a week service from Amman to Hong Kong via Bangkok this week. Flights will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and will increase to five times a week in the summer.

The service will aid business and tourist development between Jordan, Hong Kong and China, the latter through oneworld alliance partners Cathay Pacific and Dragonair.

The addition of Hong Kong brings RJ’s worldwide destinations to 55. In April this will increase to 56 with the addition of Baku in Azerbaijan.

www.rj.com 

1/21/2008 5:54:44 AM UTC     

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 h