Following a €7 million hotel renovation, it is only fitting that the Spa at the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona has also been given a rejuvenating facelift for 2008. With the introduction of new products and treatments from luxurious brand Éminence Organic Skin Care, and a highly qualified homeopathic doctor as Spa Manager and Owner, Kempinski Estepona’s new luxury organic Med-Spa is a first for Spain.

Opened on 1st February 2008, Éminence Med-Spa is the only spa in Spain to feature Éminence products and treatments, which are favoured by Hollywood royalty such as Penelope Cruz and Winona Ryder. Spanning just over 1,000 square metres, the spa features 18 treatments rooms, a sauna, indoor heated swimming pool and fitness centre. Guests will enjoy not only pampering organic facial and body treatments but, for those wanting to fine-tune body and soul, Homeopathy, non-invasive cosmetic treatments, lifestyle counselling and full health analysis are also on the menu.

www.kempinski-spain.com

3/10/2008 4:41:17 PM UTC     

Arguably ‘the wine capital of the world,’ Bordeaux has even more to offer than its famous Châteaux and wines. A true tourist destination, the region is full of 18th-Century architecture and many outstanding museums. Here are a few happenings taking place in Bordeaux between March and May 2008:

April: Photography Festival (1st-30th April 2008)

Travel photographers exhibit at various venues open to the public around Bordeaux city, from galleries to bars. Ten photographers have travelled across the world to create these ‘works of art’.  The festival exhibitions are free.

www.itiphoto.com 

May: La Nuit des Musées (17th May 2008)

All Bordeaux’s museums will be open until 1am for one night only and entrance is free.  La Nuit des Musées offers a chance to whizz round the city's finest temporary and permanent collections, as part of a European-wide cultural initiative.  Many museums also mark the night with concerts.

www.nuitdesmusees.culture.fr/

Union des Grands Crus Wine Weekend (17th-18th May 2008)

For one weekend in May, the region’s top Châteaux hold tastings for the general public in central Bordeaux, with many offering visits and dinners in their properties. The downtown tastings are held along the Quai de Chartrons, but all information on tastings out in the vineyards can be obtained through the Union des Grands Crus. 

www.ugcb.net

VTV (Velo Tout Vigne) Le Medocain (31st May 2008)

This bicycle race is held around Margaux and competitors cycle through Châteaux properties that lay on tastings and festivities. This event is the southern Medoc’s version of Pauillac's Marathon, which is run through the vines. The race has three circuits between 25km and 75km, all departing from the town of Arsac. 

www.medocainevtt.com/

Festival des Jardins (May – June 2008)

Bordeaux's annual Garden Festival spreads throughout the green areas of the city.  Every park, from the Jardin Publique to the Parc Rivière, plus a few private gardens, open up and hold special events, from dance and opera to children's theatre.  The aim of the festival is to create a particular appeal for each garden around town.

www.bordeaux.fr/ 

3/9/2008 12:49:27 PM UTC     

The Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel offers 471 guestrooms, including 21 suites. It also features over 21,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, with a 10,700-square-foot ballroom and a 4,400-square-foot junior ballroom that are conveniently located on the same floor.

The Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel's technology sets a new standard in the hospitality industry. This tech-savvy hotel offers a DS-3 line, which operates 28 times faster than the speed of a T-1, and allows guests to stream video, host video conferences and run their largest internet-based presentations -- simultaneously -- without sacrificing speed. The hotel also features innovative guestroom plug-in technology for laptops, MP3 players, camcorder and digital cameras, in-room 37" high-definition, flat panel TVs and wired and wireless Internet available on the same network throughout the property.

Conveniently located directly east of Boston's bustling Financial District, the hotel is in close proximity to the new Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, downtown Boston and Logan International Airport. It is in walking distance of numerous major attractions, including the Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston's Children Museum, Boston Design Center, Boston Harbor Walk, Fanueil Hall Market Place, the New England Aquarium and more.

www.marriott.com

3/9/2008 12:31:04 PM UTC     

Chinese flag carrier Air China is to launch new non-stop service from Shanghai to Milan, effective from March 30, 2008. The new service will operate on Airbus 340 with newly built premium-cabin service, "Forbidden Pavilion" First Class and "Capital Pavilion" Business Class, and will be offered 4 times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Currently, Air China is flying up to 14 flights per week from Beijing or Shanghai to Milan or Rome, the two famous tourist cities in Italy. Also, Air China's strategic cooperation with some Italian airlines such as Alitalia, Air One enables the passengers to enjoy more convenience by flying with the partner airlines to other Italian cities.

At the same time, starting from March 31, 2008, Air China is going to increase the frequency on Beijing-Paris route and provide two flights everyday during peak time. The updated service will better meet the passengers' needs in the summer.

www.air-china.co.uk

3/9/2008 12:25:04 PM UTC     

London City Airport this year joins the UK’s list of top 500 business brands, as it becomes the only airport to be named a ‘Business Superbrand’. Ranked alongside other major brands including British Airways, Air France and one of the airport’s owners, AIG, London City Airport once again confirms its importance amongst the business community. 

Commenting, Richard Gooding OBE, Chief Executive of London City Airport said: “it is exciting to see how, in only 20 years, London City Airport has grown from a small regional airport serving almost 133,000 passengers in its first full year of trading, to a staggering 2.9 million passengers in 2007. More and more business travellers are recognising the benefits of London City Airport as it is located on the doorstep of the City and Canary Wharf. This accolade strengthens our position in the business of travel.” 

London City Airport continues to be the hub of choice as demonstrated by passenger numbers in 2008. In January 2008 it saw a 25 per cent increase over the previous year, with February showing an increase of 23 per cent over the same month last year.

The Top 500 league of Business Superbrands is compiled by a council of senior business leaders and an independent survey of 1,500 professionals. The list reveals the brands that have established the finest reputations in their fields and make the most impact on the UK business sector. Brands are rated on quality; reliability and distinction.

www.londoncityairport.com www.superbrands.com

3/9/2008 12:20:39 PM UTC     

The Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel has gained an extra four star from the AA putting it the luxury four star bracket.

The historic 27-bedroom hotel is mid-way through an intensive 12 month programme of investment in both the building and the employees. The prestigious accolade was secured in recognition of both the hotel’s exceptionally high standards of service, focus on training, sensitivity of refurbishment, and facilities, and reinforces the company’s position as AA Hotel Group of the Year.

Built in 1480, Pittodrie House is one of Scotland’s most historic hotels. Located on the outskirts of Aberdeen, amidst a 2,000 acre estate, the hotel still retains many of its original features such as wheel stair in the south east section of the building, gun loops, stone sinks and fireplaces.

An ideal base for outdoor pursuits such as game fishing, shooting, golf and horse riding, local tourist attractions such as Whisky Distilleries are also close by, whilst the shops, culture, restaurants and night life that Aberdeen has to offer are only 30 minutes away.

Double rooms start at £96 per room per night.

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/pittodrie 

3/9/2008 12:14:26 PM UTC     

Singapore Airlines is converting five of its Airbus A340-500 ultra-long-range aircraft into an all-Business Class configuration, for daily flights between Singapore and New York, and Singapore and Los Angeles.

The current 2-class, 181 seat, arrangement will be replaced with 100 of the airline’s new award-winning Business Class seats, in a 4-abreast, 1-2-1, layout. Each seat is upholstered in leather, and is 30 inches (76 cm) wide.

Every seat will have direct access to the aisle, and will convert to a fully flat bed. The new Business Class seats are the same design as those fitted on the airline’s A380 and Boeing 777-300ER fleet.

Singapore Airlines Executive Vice President Marketing and Regions, Mr Huang Cheng Eng, said the change recognises the popularity from business travellers for the award-winning Business Class products introduced on other aircraft type.

“The new Business Class is being very well-received by our customers on long-range flights. The new product is the perfect fit for the ultra-long-haul services between Singapore and the USA.

“The peak demand for the non-stop flights is from our Business Class customers, and this change will expand Business Class capacity from 64 to 100 seats on each flight,” Mr Huang said.

The implementation will be phased in gradually from mid May, 2008, on the Singapore-New York route, with daily services in the new all-Business Class arrangement to New York by end June, and Los Angeles by late September, 2008. The program will require each of the five A340-500 aircraft to be retrofitted in turn.

Airlines flies 46 times weekly between Singapore and the USA, with multiple daily flights serving Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York. The daily non-stop flights to Los Angeles and New York are complemented by other one-stop flights to each destination daily. And in March, Singapore Airlines will add Houston to its route network with a four-times-weekly flight from Singapore, via Moscow.

www.singaporeair.com

3/9/2008 12:07:47 PM UTC     

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has reopened The Plaza, of one of New York's most distinctive landmarks. After a delicate and thoughtfully curated $400 million, two-year, lobby-to-roof renovation, the new Plaza features lavish hotel rooms, private residences, destination restaurants, an exclusive retail collection, and state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces.

"Today marks the return of an international legend and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is proud to introduce the new Plaza to New York and welcome guests from around the world," commented Chris Cahill, President and COO, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. "This dramatic renovation has restored The Plaza's famous spaces to their previous opulence and raised standards for luxury hotels around the world through unrivalled service and extraordinary amenities."

The Plaza offers 282 guestrooms and suites, including 102 elegant suites in seven distinct designs and layouts. Each guestroom and suite has been designed to reflect the grace of a glorious past, and updated with contemporary conveniences to meet the needs of today's most discerning travellers. Inspired by the Louis XV style of French decor, rooms are impeccably adorned with custom-made furnishings, meticulously selected decorative accents and rich fabrics. The Plaza is proud to be the only hotel in the world offering stunning 24-karat gold plated Sherle Wagner sinks and fixtures, delicately cradled in hand-crafted solid white marble vanities, in every bathroom.

"The Plaza team is passionate about delivering the highest level of service to the most discerning travellers," said Shane Krige, general manager. "We will pamper our guests with personal touches, and offer one-of-a-kind amenities not available anywhere else in the city. Our iconic hotel will continue to host legendary events, from the most intimate to the most lavish, in our restored Grand Ballroom and throughout the hotel with the re-opening of the historic Palm Court, and the debuts of the new Champagne Bar and Rose Club."

www.theplaza.com

3/9/2008 9:32:10 AM UTC     

Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts hs moved into the extended stay market with the opening of Pan Pacific Serviced Suites in early April 2008, which is aimed at international professionals.

“Moving into the extended serviced accommodation is a logical extension of the brand as it is complementary to our current hotel accommodation offering. The timing of the launch could not be better as globalisation continues to drive business expansion into Asia with corresponding growth in business travel. With Pan Pacific Serviced Suites, we will be able to capture this demand which augurs well for the group’s strategic development plan that will see the brand grow extensively in the Pacific region,” said Mr Gwee Lian Kheng, Group President & CEO of UOL Group, Pan Pac’s parent company.

Situated in the heart of vibrant Orchard Road, the Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Singapore is set to impress its guest with a total of 126 suites one-bedroom and two-bedroom Executive and Premium Suites as well as Penthouses. The Suites provide residents an option of turning their suites into offices, saving residents the hassle of renting another office space.

Each suite features a painting of Cultural Medallion recipient and local ink painter Chua Ek Kay and comes with premium branded amenities such as Bose home entertainment system, Loewe LCD TVs in all rooms including the second bedroom, iPod connectivity and wire/wireless broadband connectivity as well as Molten Brown toiletries.

There is a hydro-therapeutic spa or mineral water pool, a state of art fitness centre by Technogym and residents’ library or unwind in.

To help residents settle into the city, Pan Pacific Serviced Suites offers local connections and access to business events and networks, exclusive social events as well as facilitating gatherings for like-minded people.

www.panpacific.com

3/9/2008 9:19:42 AM UTC     

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has opened the doors of its first Vietnam property this month – the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. Built entirely over the serene waters of Hanoi’s historic West Lake, the new hotel features 359 guest rooms and suites showcasing contemporary Vietnam design at its best.
Located just 10 minutes from the heart of Hanoi, the waterfront hotel evokes a resort-like ambiance with its torch-lit Venetian promenades and hard-to-find airiness in Vietnam’s bustling capital. Balconies extend from each of the hotel’s 340 rooms and 19 suites, all with extraordinary views of the 1,235-acre lake, the cityscape, or the property’s tropical gardens.

The Hanoi Westlake is anchored by a 161-room main tower that functions as its own island and is complemented by three pavilions, each with 66 rooms and suites. The rooms rank as the most spacious in the city and provide the latest technology including LCD televisions and high-speed internet access. Each bathroom offers double-basin vanities and both a deep-soaking bathtub and separate walk-in rain shower.

www.intercontinental.com/hanoi

3/9/2008 8:58:27 AM UTC     

Hotelopia the on line booking specialist are offering thousands of late hotel breaks this Easter. They have a massive range of European destinations from £15 per person, per night, and luxury stays from £29 per person, per night.

Examples to book now include:

Paphos: For a greater chance of a suntan, head to Paphos in Cyprus, where March temperatures average 20 degrees Celsius. As well as Paphos’s beaches, there’s plenty of sites of historical interest to explore including the Tomb of the Kings, a UNESCO's World Heritage list site, dating back to 300BC. Stay in the 3* Paphiessa Hotel at just £15 per person per night including breakfast, situated 800 metres from the beach and in the centre of Kato Paphos town.

Barcelona: During Easter, Barcelona city becomes a more relaxed affair as offices close and the streets a pleasure to wander. For a taste of Barcelona’s rustic charm, check into the 3* San Augustin Hotel located in the renovated 18 Century San Augustine Convent, in a peaceful square and just 50 metres from the central Las Ramblas, and all the action. Priced £64 per person, per night room only.

Seville: Experience Easter or ‘Semana Santa’ Spanish style. Witness the spectacular festivities shrouded in history and tradition where religious brotherhoods parade through the city dressed in penitential robes and conical hooded cloaks. Book into the 4* Sevilla Congresos Hotel, centrally located just paces away from bars and restaurants, for only £65 per person, per night, room only.

Algarve: Spring has already arrived across southern Europe and the Algarve is no exception. Check into the luxury 4* Pestana Viking Hotel and Resort, with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and direct access to the sheltered beach below, priced only £29 per person, per night, on a bed and breakfast basis.

Prague: Alternatively enjoy an Easter break exploring the historic centre of Prague. Book into the 3* Ibis Praha Old Town Hotel which is centrally located, just five minutes from Wenceslas Square for only £43 per person, per night.

All prices are valid for stays from 20 March to 25 March 2008 and are subject to availability.

www.hotelopia.co.uk  

3/9/2008 8:03:56 AM UTC     

Purplehotels are offering a bed and breakfast rate that will make you egg-static! Rooms are available for as little as £49 per room per night for a couple and only £69 for a family. At the purplehotel City of London prices will range from £69 for couples to £89 for a family. As it’s Easter they are throwing in breakfast for FREE! All guests will be treated to an Easter egg hunt on arrival as Cadbury’s Creme Eggs for everyone will be hiding in our rooms.

The offer is valid from Thursday 20th March 08 until Sunday 20th April 08. 

Prices include:
-A bedroom fully air – conditioned and WiFi’d
-A big bed with a squishy duvet and bounceback pillows
-A walk in supersize shower
-A café-bar open all day with big flat screen television showing major sports and news stations. 

Purplehotels are a new “no frills chic” brand launched by the Real Hotel Company. Guests can now choose from eleven purplehotels including: Baldock, Birmingham Star City, Braintree/Stansted, Cambridge, City of London, Derby, Doncaster, Glasgow/Airport, Peterborough, Shrewsbury and Tewkesbury.

www.purplehotels.co.uk

3/9/2008 7:58:00 AM UTC     

Singapore Airlines flights will operate from Beijing Capital International Airport’s new Terminal 3 with effect from Wednesday 26 March 2008. The first flights in and out of the new terminal will be SQ812 into Beijing from Singapore at 0720 hrs and SQ811, departing Beijing for Singapore at 0845 hrs.

Customers can proceed to Check-In Area E for check-In on Singapore Airlines flights. Counters open 3 hours, and close 60 minutes, before flight departure. Customers are advised to check-in early, preferably 3 hours before flight departure, to avoid congestion.

Singapore Airlines also offers Internet check-in from 48 hours before flight departure. Customers who have performed Internet check-in can also print out their own boarding pass at their own convenience. There will be dedicated counters to serve Internet Check-in passengers for quicker check-in.

www.singaporeair.com

3/9/2008 7:52:05 AM UTC     

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) is embarking on a S$10million expansion project at Singapore’s Budget Terminal (BT) - a customised terminal that offers airlines a low cost operation option. The expansion works, which will take place from around July 2008 to early 2009, will increase the terminal’s handling capacity from the current 2.7 million passengers per annum to 7 million. In addition, the expansion will also increase the floor area
of the BT from 25,000sqm to 28,700sqm.

After almost two years of operations, the terminal’s expansion is necessary to keep ahead of the air traffic growth at the BT. In 2007, about 1.77 million passengers passed through the BT. In all, the BT has served about 2.9 million passengers since it opened on 26 March 2006. The number of weekly scheduled flights at the BT, operated by Tiger Airways and Philippines-based carrier, Cebu Pacific Air, has also increased from 124 in March 2006 to 248 in February 2008, representing a healthy growth of 100 per cent. Today, the BT is connected to 20 cities in the region, up from 12 cities when it first opened.

The expansion project will involve the addition of seven check-in counters as well as the installation of additional baggage handling equipment. Three more passenger boarding gates will be constructed, bringing the total number of boarding gates to ten. The kerbside at the arrival hall will be widened to create more room for arriving passengers waiting for vehicles to pick them up.

3/9/2008 7:46:18 AM UTC     

Accor will launch the Ibis Salmiya Kuwait, their first business economy hotel in Kuwait, on March 20.

“Ibis Salmiya is a part of our continuing drive to expand economy hotels in the region. While we are committed to strengthening our position in the region, Ibis Salmiya opening is of paramount importance, as it will also be the first Accor hotel development in Kuwait,” said Christophe Landais, managing director, Accor Hospitality Middle East.

The new Ibis Salmiya hotel has 175 rooms, including double and twin standard rooms with 56 connecting rooms.

Satisfying the meeting needs of a business clientele, Ibis Salmiya will have three soundproof meeting and board meeting rooms which include advanced high technology communication equipment along with a pre-function area (50 sq m).  The hotel also has an internet and business centre located in the lobby. 

The hotel is conveniently located 20 minutes away from Kuwait International Airport in a core business area.

www.accor.com

3/9/2008 7:40:55 AM UTC     

Flybe is adding extra flights this summer on a Saturday and Sunday to its Aberdeen to London Gatwick route due to “unprecedented demand”.

Flybe chief commercial officer Mike Rutter said: “When Flybe took over this route from BA, we pledged to grow the service and these additional flights are proof of our commitment to Aberdeen.”

Fares start at £29.99 one way including taxes and charges.

www.flybe.com

3/9/2008 7:34:50 AM UTC     

A £5 million facelift of the Heathrow/Windsor Marriott has been completed in time for the March 27 opening of Heathrow Terminal 5.

The upgrade for the property – 10 minutes from the new terminal by Junction 5 of the M4 - is part of a £120 million “Nip & Tuck” programme to revamp 38 hotels around the country.

The Heathrow/Windsor upgrade has involved the creation of a new look and feel for its 382 rooms, ballroom and public areas.

The hotel’s sales and marketing director Ruth Taylor said: “This investment has made the hotel an ideal international meetings venue for any event requiring a hotel with outstanding facilities, excellent service and good connections. We are the perfect choice for any event that has delegates travelling internationally.”

www.marriott.com

3/9/2008 7:31:40 AM UTC     

From 26 March 2008, passengers of China Eastern Airlines, Jet Airways, Qatar Airways and United Airlines will depart from and arrive at Singapore Changi Airport's new Terminal 3 which opened for operations on 9 January 2008.  These four carriers, which are currently operating from Terminal 1, will join Singapore Airlines in operating from Terminal 3. 

Mr Lim Kim Choon, CAAS Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, said, "CAAS is working hand-in-hand with our airline partners to facilitate their shift from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 to ensure that all aspects of their operations are carried out smoothly.  Their operations at Terminal 3 will enable us to optimise the capacity and facilities of the terminals at Changi Airport.  With this shift, their passengers will get to enjoy a refreshing Changi experience as they make use of the facilities and services of the new Terminal 3."

China Eastern Airlines, Jet Airways, Qatar Airways and United Airlines operate a total of 148 weekly flights from Singapore to 12 cities viz. Shanghai, Kunming, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Doha, Jakarta, Atlanta, Chicago, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Washington DC. 

3/7/2008 6:24:58 AM UTC     

Belgium produces 172,000 tons of chocolate per year in over 2,130 chocolate shops. The fact that the British are Europe’s biggest consumer of chocolate chomping our way through, on average,  a whopping 10kg of chocolate a year, makes Belgium and in particular Flanders the first place to head for, in the quest for the perfect Easter egg!

Of course some shops are more exclusive than others and for the ultimate in chocolate design, take a trip to the land where chocolate eggs are more than just hollowed out chocolate casts. In Flanders, chocolate eggs come in all shapes and forms and with an exquisite taste to match, there can be no finer examples of the art of the chocolatier! Delicious fillings will make your taste buds surrender and breathtaking chocolate art displays make our humble British eggs look like poor country cousins!

Here’s our guide as to where to buy the most exclusive Flemish Easter eggs:

1. Pierre Marcollini: This exclusive chocolate shop sells the handiwork of the legendary Pierre Marcollini. A chocolate perfectionist, Marcollini also produces delicious seasonal ice-creams, deserts, biscuits and sorbets. Don’t miss his delicious éclairs. www.marcollini.be
2. Cote D’or: Has been sourcing its cocoa beans from West Africa since 1883. As one of the most recognised brands in Belgium, it has just opened its own shop in the centre of Brussels. Sample the rich variety of flavours on offer or if you are very disciplined, drop in just to soak up some of the tempting choco-atmosphere! www.cotedor.co.uk
3. Wittamer: Originally established by Henri Wittamer in the Grand Sablon in 1910, this shop was originally opened as a thriving and well known bakery in the centre of Brussels. Three generations later, his grandson set up its famous chocolate shop in 1965 and it continues to thrive with much acclaim and success. www.wittamer.be
4. Chocolate Line: The creator Dominque Persoone has worked with Heston Blumenthal and shares an enthusiasm in innovative chocolate design. Testing the boundaries of taste, his shop has some interesting flavoured chocolates incorporating fruit, herbs and even vegetables! www.dominiquepersoone.be/dominique-persoone-chocolate.asp
5. Sukerbuyc: Translated in English as Sugar Belly, this is Bruges oldest chocolate shop. With its own tea-room opposite the main shop, a visit to “de Proeverie” (a place you can taste) to try its famous hot chocolate is a must made with pure melted chocolate. www.sukerbuyc.be/index_eng.html
6. Daskalides: Was started in 1931 by a Greek couple in Ghent. Over 70 years later it is one of Ghent’s most famous chocolatiers.  Now a recognised brand name in Flanders, their shops are all over Flanders www.daskalides.com
7. Yuzu: For Nicolas Vanaise, chocolate is a lot more than milk, dark and white chocolate. It is an exotic ingredient that gets more and more character and can be combined to perfection with flavours from around the world such as Yuzu, an Eastern citrus fruit, but also with typical Flemish products such as beer, mustard and gingerbread.
8. Van Hoorbeke: Located just behind the cathedral in Ghent is Luc Van Hoorbeke’s tasty chocolaterie. Specialising in freshly made pralines it’s hard to walk past without a peak at the tantalising creations on offer.
9. Burie: Well known for its trade-mark Diamond shaped chocolates, this famous Antwerp chocolatier displays a different new chocolate and marzipan sculpture in its window. Usually a work of art in itself, this Easter will be no exception to the level of creativity! www.chocolatier-burie.be/
10. Goossens: To find out why Chocolaterie Goossens has become a household name in Belgium jump on a tram get off at Sint-Vincentius Hospital, The man behind the business, Rene Goossens studied chocolate making in Switzerland and France before founding his own business in 1955.

3/6/2008 5:54:07 PM UTC     

Following a successful three month trial, Lufthansa has introduced a dedicated Personal Assistant service for its First Class customers and HON Circle members at London-Heathrow, the very first Lufthansa station in Europe to benefit from this unique service.  A similar service is also being introduced at London City Airport.

With the new service, Lufthansa’s top customers departing from Terminal 2, Heathrow, are immediately met at check-in by their dedicated Personal Assistant, escorted through security control, by-passing queues to be taken directly to the Lufthansa lounge.  Lufthansa’s top customers arriving into Heathrow can also benefit from the new service, being met directly at the aircraft door, and escorted swiftly through passport and customs controls.  Customer response to the new service has been overwhelmingly positive with an average of 50 passengers daily using the new Personal Assistant service, thereby saving valuable time on their departure from or arrival into London.

Announcing the introduction of the new service, Marianne Sammann, Lufthansa’s General Manager UK & Ireland commented: “Lufthansa’s new Personal Assistant service offers a new and exclusive benefit for our best and most loyal customers flying out of London, further strengthening our leading position in the premium segment.

3/6/2008 11:29:58 AM UTC     

Qantas today welcomed its first aircraft fitted with the airline’s new Premium Economy cabin. Executive General Manager, Mr John Borghetti, said the introduction of Premium Economy offers customers a new choice in long haul international travel.

“Qantas Premium Economy offers extra space and comfort and enhanced levels of service, we have invested significantly in developing this cabin, which is being progressively installed across our B747-400 fleet and will be available on every Qantas A380.”

The first aircraft with Premium Economy, enters service tomorrow and will operate from Sydney to Hong Kong. The cabin features 32 seats in a two-four-two configuration. It is initially available on select services between Sydney and London and Sydney and Johannesburg. Additional routes will be added as the product is progressively installed.

3/6/2008 11:14:30 AM UTC     

Russian airline, KD avia have announced a "Spring in Russia" seat sale to promote their new daily flights between London Gatwick and 12 onward destinations through their hub in Kaliningrad. The special fares are available for 12 major cities in Russia plus Astana in Kazakhstan.

With prices starting at £186.00 for a London to Kalingrad return, inclusive of taxes and £205 for a London to Moscow return, inclusive of taxes, KD avia is able to offer the equivalent of low-cost airline prices, but with choice of included meal service, seat allocation at check-in, free checked-in baggage allowance of 20kgs and easy customs clearance in Kaliningrad's specially built facility.

The full range of special prices from London include:

• From £186, Kaliningrad
• From £196, Perm
• From £208, Ufa, Kazan, Samara and Moscow (Domodedovo)
• From £228, St Petersburg
• From £265, Volgograd
• From £305, Rostov-on-Don, Nizhny Novgorod, Omsk and Chelyabinsk.
• From £360, Astana in Kazakhstan.

The Sales period starts on 11th March 2008 and ends on 20th March 2008 for travel between 01st April 2008 and 15th June 2008. Special conditions apply. Fares available through all major travel agents.

www.kdavia.co.uk

3/6/2008 7:50:45 AM UTC     

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the expansion of its resort portfolio in Bali, Indonesia’s top leisure destination, with the signing of the InterContinental Bali Sanur Beach Resort and a Holiday Inn Resort on Tuban.

InterContinental Bali Sanur Beach Resort, is scheduled to open in late 2009. The new-build resort designed by award-winning architectural firm eco-id with interiors by Hadiprana will occupy seven hectares of beachfront property on the tranquil coastal village of Sanur. The luxury resort’s 104 rooms and suites will be located in low-rise cluster pavilions and will be complemented by 54 private villas, all featuring private pools with underwater seating, outdoor showers and private landscaped courtyards. The resort will also offer a wide selection of premium facilities, including a luxurious Spa InterContinental with spacious indoor and outdoor treatment areas, an all-day beachfront restaurant and speciality dining. InterContinental Bali Sanur Beach Resort will be the second InterContinental hotel on the island and sister property to the award-winning 418-room InterContinental Bali Resort on Jimbaran Bay.

The Holiday Inn Resort on Tuban is a 200-room property set on three hectares of Balinese gardens with direct beach access.

“Bali is one of Asia’s most popular destinations, attracting high-spending leisure travellers, corporate meeting attendees as well as families. IHG already manages a successful InterContinental resort on Jimbaran Bay and with these two new hotels, our guests can look forward to more choice of accommodations across two brands in three unique locations,” said Jan Smits, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Asia and Korea, IHG Asia Pacific.

3/6/2008 7:49:21 AM UTC     

The ancient city of Guangzhou, now China’s economic powerhouse, will join Emirates’ sprawling six-continent non-stop network on 1st July this will be Emirates’ fourth gateway in China, after Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong.

Starting 1st July, Emirates' will fly non-stop to Guangzhou four times weekly on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays with an Airbus A330-200 in a two class configuration – 27 seats in Business and 251 in Economy. Beginning 1st October, Emirates will also fly the route on Fridays.

Guangzhou is the third largest air travel hub in China and the capital of the Guangdong province. Guangdong has the highest GDP of all China’s provinces and the highest value of exports.

www.emirates.com

3/6/2008 7:47:19 AM UTC     

The upgrade of Oasis Hong Kong Airlines’ businessOasis cabins has now been completed across the fleet offering passengers an improved in-flight experience.businessOasis passengers on all routes can now enjoy:

• Restaurant quality meal service, with courses served one at a time
• Sumptuous dessert trolley featuring a selection of desserts and cheeses rather than a pre-plated option
• Amenity kit, noise cancellation headsets and a plush, new, heavier fleece blanket
• New high-quality crockery and glass ware
• Improved in-flight entertainment including six new Hollywood blockbuster movies per month for all passengers to view on their personal seat back TVs

Oasis’ Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Miller, comments: “The upgrade of our business class offering has enhanced the look and feel of Oasis on board; ensuring that our passengers have the best possible in-flight experience. Our full service offering - combined with competitive fares - makes Oasis the smart way to travel.”

www.oasishongkong.com

3/6/2008 7:46:20 AM UTC     

Virgin Atlantic has unveiled a brand new Clubhouse for its Upper Class passengers in Boston. The new £1m Clubhouse at Logan International Airport was created by Boston based architectural practice Bergmeyer Architects, in collaboration with the Virgin Atlantic in-house design team.
 
Joe Ferry, Head of Design for Virgin Atlantic commented: "The new Boston Clubhouse combines inspirations from the local culture with elements that portray the Virgin Atlantic brand. This is one of the new breeds of Clubhouses that have had Architecture, Design and Service Design imbedded in its development from first principles. We have developed some of the best elements of our flagship clubhouse at Heathrow and innovatively integrated them into the new space.“

The Boston Clubhouse is divided into four zones; the Library and Business centre, the Lounge, the Brasserie and the Deli. Accommodating up to 75 passengers, it allows Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class passengers to relax in quiet comfort, surf the Internet, lounge in private banquettes or dine in bistro style.

3/6/2008 7:44:50 AM UTC     

Royal Jet, the Middle East’s leading business aviation operator, is to double its fleet and achieve a five-fold revenue increase by 2013, according to its President & Chief Executive, Shane O’Hare. He unveiled the major expansion strategy in London where the award-winning luxury flight services provider was marking its fifth anniversary.

This strategy has the solid support of the Royal Jet board under the leadership of His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan and is seen as a firm commitment to the development of our home base of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, into an international aviation centre of excellence,” said O’Hare. “We plan to grow our fleet from its current 12 aircraft to more than 20 and achieve turnover of US$500 million (£250 million) by 2013.

“Our expansion will reflect that of the Middle East’s booming business aviation segment. Our research points to a 40% annual increase in the Middle East’s business aviation sector for the coming five years with Saudi Arabia and the UAE driving the momentum. Saudi Arabia is currently leading the surge but the UAE is catching up very fast.”

“We have a buoyant, traditional market for ‘VIP’ charters, but Royal Jet’s outstanding growth is principally down to increasing, world-wide demand for superior, private air service from business and industry in the UK, mainland Europe and Asia as well as the Middle East. In the last financial year, for instance, we contracted 32 new charter customers.

www.royaljetgroup.com

3/5/2008 5:09:36 AM UTC     

There are no other restaurants within the immediate vicinity of the stunning new Beach House at Manafaru, so it is just as well that the dining experience on offer is one of the best in the Indian Ocean!

Gourmet meals are prepared by The Beach House’s international chef, Eddy Santoso and served in one of three breathtaking restaurants.  Freshly-caught local seafood and Maldivian specialities share the menu with culinary treats from around the world and for those who fear for their waist-line, all of the menus have healthy, low fat options and also feature a number of organic creations.

The Beach House also has portable cooking stations allowing guests to have food prepared in their own villa by one of the chefs, creating a more intimate and personal dining experience. However, if you are looking for the more vibrant atmosphere of a restaurant, there are three on offer to choose from:

Saffron – The signature restaurant built over the ocean offers cutting-edge Asian fusion cuisine. At this dining venue expect the unexpected! The Head Chef adores the flavours of South East Asia for their intense taste, and this is reflected in the food on offer.

Medium Rare – Get ready for mouth watering Black Wagyu steaks, exquisite fresh local  lobster and fresh line caught fish all prepared on ceremony right in front of you in the central open plan kitchen.

Four Corners – Enjoy lavish buffets using the finest local ingredients at the Four Corners restaurant and sample culinary delights from around the world. An a la carte menu is also on offer and dishes include Indian Ocean King Scallops terrine with Gazpacho Sorbet or a good old fashioned hamburger! 

The Beach House is also home to a number of bars dotted across the island including Salt Water, where guests can stargaze from cushion-stuffed hammocks, Infiniti, a low-key Maldivian bar with decking, swimming pool and an utterly chilled bare-foot luxury vibe to match and last be not least Amazon, a bar that offers submerged seating in a pool of clear water surrounded by rainforest!

Last but not least, for wine connoisseurs, the Beach House has its very own well-stocked wine cellar full of innovative wines and an impressive selection of rare and vintage labels that is all overseen by a world-class and resident sommelier.

3/4/2008 5:25:27 PM UTC     

Members of Skywards, the frequent flyer programme of Emirates, can earn Triple Miles when flying First Class, and Double Miles when flying Business Class, on more than 100 flights across the Emirates network until 31st March, 2008.

The Skywards Premium Class Bonus Miles Offer is applicable on selected flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Newcastle to over 60 popular cities such as Dubai, Beijing, Perth and Nagoya. With this fantastic offer, all new and existing members will earn bonus Miles on eligible flights, even if just part of their overall itinerary. There is no limit to the number of Miles that can be earned, with every eligible flight earning members the bonus and allowing them to reach their desired rewards even faster.

For example, a Skywards member flying in First Class from London to Perth would normally earn 9,014 Skywards Miles (plus a 100% First Class bonus of 9,014 miles), will instead receive triple miles of 27,042 Skywards Miles (plus a 100% First Class bonus of 9,014 miles).

To qualify for this offer, members must register prior to travel through the Skywards website www.skywards.com

3/4/2008 5:19:46 PM UTC     

Airports Council International (ACI) announced the top performing airports in the Airport Service Quality Survey. The ASQ rankings are based on the results from nearly 200,000 questionnaires completed by passengers in 2007. The survey captures the passenger’s immediate appraisal of 34 airport service factors, from check-in through to departure at the gate.

ACI 2007 Airport Service Quality Awards

BEST AIRPORTS WORLDWIDE

1) Incheon, South Korea
2) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3) Singapore
4) Hong Kong
5) Central Japan (NGO)

BEST AIRPORT BY REGION

Africa
1) Johannesburg, South Africa
2) Cape Town, South Africa
3) Durban, South Africa
4) Nairobi, Kenya

Asia-Pacific
1) Incheon, South Korea
2) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3) Singapore
4) Hong Kong
5) Central Japan (NGO)

Europe
1) Oporto, Portugal
2) Zurich, Switzerland
3=) Helsinki, Finland
3=) Munich, Germany
5) Southampton, UK

Latin America & Caribbean
1) Guayaquil, Ecuador
2) San Jose, Costa Rica
3) Mexico City, Mexico
4) Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago
5) Curacao, Antilles

Middle East
1) Tel Aviv, Israel
2) Doha, Qatar
3) Abu Dhabi, UAE
4) Muscat, Oman

North America
1) Dallas Fort Worth, USA
2) Halifax, Canada
3) Ottawa, Canada
4) San Diego, USA
5) Detroit Metropolitan, USA

BEST AIRPORT BY SIZE OF AIRPORT

fewer than 5 million passengers
1) Halifax, Canada
2) Ottawa, Canada
3) Guayaquil, Ecuador
4) Porto, Portugal
5) Cairns, Australia

5 – 15 million passengers
1) Central Japan (NGO)
2) Tel Aviv, Israel
3) Auckland, New Zealand
4) Christchurch, New Zealand
5) Adelaide, Australia

15 – 25 million passengers
1) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2) San Diego, USA
3) Zurich, Switzerland
4) Vancouver, Canada
5) Melbourne, Australia

25 – 40 million passengers
1) Incheon, South Korea
2) Singapore
3) Detroit Metropolitan, USA
4) Minneapolis St. Paul, USA
5) Munich, Germany

over 40 million
1) Hong Kong
2) Dallas Fort Worth, USA
3) Denver, USA
4) Houston George Bush, USA
5) Amsterdam, Netherlands

BEST DOMESTIC AIRPORT

1) Halifax, Canada
2) Austin, USA
3) Ottawa, Canada

AIRPORT PEOPLE AWARDS

Europe: Southampton, UK
Asia-Pacific: Incheon, South Korea
North America: Halifax, Canada

DG’S SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS

- Mr Wu Nianzu, Chairman, Shanghai Airport Authority
- CAA of Singapore & Singapore Changi Airport

BEST IMPROVEMENT

Aberdeen, UK

3/2/2008 8:02:57 AM UTC     

Eurostar, the high-speed train operator that links the UK to the Continent, today launched a series of expansion works at Paris Gare du Nord, which will improve the station’s Eurostar check-in area - delivering faster, and easier access to the departure lounge for Eurostar travellers.

These works will improve the layout at check-in to make the flow of travellers smoother by introducing new check-in gates and increasing capacity through border controls. These changes, combined with an additional x-ray machine, will reduce queues at peak times.

The new check-in gates will accept bar-code ticketing which Eurostar will trial later this year.

www.eurostar.com

3/2/2008 7:58:18 AM UTC     

With Easter approaching TravelPlus has had a number of ideas for ‘doing something over Easter’. Here are just a few.

DOWNE HEATH SPA AND COTTAGES

Leave the stress of every day life behind this Easter with a relaxing break at Downe Health Spa and Cottages in North Devon. A week's stay starts from just £500 for a cottage for two.

 www.downecottages.com

GENERAL TARLETON INN

There’s an Easter offer at the noted General Tarleton Inn, at Ferrensby, North Yorkshire, renowned for its wonderful food, terrific ambience and atmosphere, a superb wine list and luxurious accommodation. Book a minimum stay of 2 nights over the Easter Weekend and receive a complimentary dinner or lunch (worth up to £25, and excluding drinks) on each day of the stay.

 www.generaltarleton.co.uk

MALLORCA FARMHOUSES

With a mild climate and long sunny days, spring is the perfect time of year to belt-up, saddle up or stretch the legs and discover Mallorca’s verdant countryside, wonderful wildlife and quaint picturesque villages. From walking and bird watching to cycling and mountain climbing, accommodation specialists, Mallorca Farmhouses, offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy as well as complimentary car hire so visitors can cruise the whole island and unearth its hidden gems.

www.mfh.co.uk

VIRGIN ATLANTIC

Virgin Atlantic is offering its passengers a great incentive to get their holidays off to the best start this Easter. Between the 1 March and 30 April this year all passengers travelling from Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester Airports who check in online will receive £6 off a £30 spend onboard with Retail Therapy, Virgin Atlantic’s onboard shopping range.

www.virginatlantic.com/en/gb/whatsonboard/retailtherapy/index.jsp