AGH Hoteles, one of Spain and Portugal’s most prestigious hotel companies, has announced their support for the Earthrace project.

Earthrace is an incredible 78ft wave-piercing trimaran powerboat that runs as a carbon neutral project, exclusively on 100% biodiesel.  The boat will start an attempt to break the round the world speed record on 27th April, from the Vulkan Shipyard, Sagunto in Spain, close to one of AGH Hoteles’ newest luxury hotels, AGH Canet. 

Skipper Pete Bethune said, “We noticed that AGH Hoteles have a great environmental policy throughout their hotels, and also have some amazing hotels in Portugal which is where all the biofuel for our record attempt comes from, so they are a ‘five star fit’ as far as we are concerned. “The AGH Canet is also extremely luxurious with friendly and helpful staff so it will be wonderful for not only our guests and the media coming to Spain for the start of the world record, but also more than comfortable for our crew who will be experiencing the complete opposite as we journey around the world.

ABOUT EARTHRACE: The not for profit project is run as a carbon neutral enterprise, making it one of the world’s most environmentally-friendly powerboats. The crew aim to secure the world speed record to create greater awareness of biofuel from sustainable sources as part of the solution the damage caused to the environment by fossil fuels, and to show that you can do amazing things and still lead sustainable lives.

BE PART OF THE CREW ON THE WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT: Earthrace are keeping one crew place spare on each of the race legs for adventurous people who want to do something amazing and help the environment.  The public can also buy their own world record nautical miles.  All money raised goes directly towards helping Earthrace and her awareness building record attempt and subsequent world tour.  Visit our website for further details.
 
www.earthrace.net
www.aghhoteles.com

4/18/2008 6:23:11 AM UTC     

“Define Your Lifestyle” will become the mantra among a new generation of affluent travelers if Ragosta Hotels Collection has its way when it launches the collection’s newest boutique resort, La Plage Resort.  La Plage Resort heralds the arrival of the first new luxury boutique resort complex in Taormina, Sicily.  It is expected to open for business early June 2008.
 
Situated in Taormina Isola Bella, a small island near Taormina, Sicily also known as “The Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” La Plage Resort will open as a five-star property, featuring 62 guestrooms and suites, including sea view villas, deluxe rooms and a Presidential suite.  The island is a nature reserve and protected environment for local fauna and flora. Isola Bella for many years has been a landmark of UNESCO and is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the region.

The resort will also feature Ragosta Hotels Collection’s signature spa line, Expure Spa, which combines indigenous essences and plant extracts in its therapies and treatments, and is exclusive to the Ragosta Hotels Collection.  Fitness facilities along with water sports and family programs will be offered as well.

www.ragostahotels.com

4/18/2008 6:10:15 AM UTC     

The ‘Oberoi Exotic Vacations’ offer presents the ideal opportunity to enjoy a luxurious weekend after a busy week in India.  Discover the splendours of a magnificent civilization with stay at some of the best hotels in the world and avail of exceptional value.  What is more, experienced Oberoi staff is at hand to assist with all arrangements pertaining to travel through India.

Marvel at the Taj Mahal, located at a few hundred yards from The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra.  Stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas, rated the best hotel in the world, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments or explore the fabled and romantic city of Udaipur.  Plan a sojourn to Jaipur and stay at The Oberoi Rajvilas that evokes princely Rajasthan with luxury villas and royal tents in a fort-like setting.  Combine exhilarating tiger safari with the luxury of elegantly appointed tents at The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore, rated the third best hotel in the world.

Priced at £488* for a two-night stay, the ‘Oberoi Exotic Vacations’ offer includes accommodation for one person in a Premier Room, breakfast and dinner daily and complimentary return transfers from the nearest airport or railway station. Rates for double occupancy are also available. Valid from 1st May through 31st July, 2008

www.oberoihotels.com

4/18/2008 6:08:21 AM UTC     

Thursday 17th April saw the beginning of a new era at Hilton Portsmouth, over the last 12 months more than £1.5 million has been invested, which has seen the entire hotel and conference venue refurbished – setting a new standard for accommodation and events in Portsmouth. The hotel boasts a new restaurant, bar and lounge as well as 119 guestrooms with plasma screen TVs.  The existing meetings and function suites have been restyled and are now fully air-conditioned.

Simon Vincent, President of Hilton UK and Ireland said: “Hilton is at one of the most exciting times in its history as the Hilton Family of Hotels enters the UK market*. These new brands offer a brand for every occasion and an opportunity to fuel our rapid international development plans. “We aim to double the size of our UK and Ireland estate from 75 to 150 over the next five to ten years, and along with opening newly branded hotels, investment in the core brand Hilton is integral to our success. Portsmouth is an excellent example.”

4/18/2008 6:07:18 AM UTC     

Exclusively business class airline Silverjet today announced the launch of ‘Silverjet Mobile’, a full mobile internet service which enables passengers to access all of the functionality of its award-winning website through their mobile devices. Passengers can access the site by entering Silverjet’s web site address into their mobile browser, after which they can book flights, check their flight status, select seats, and choose meals - all from their mobile phone or PDA.

The ability to access information “on the go” is set to become a major business travel trend, as the demand for mobile internet services in the UAE is increasing among business travellers seeking to maximize productivity while on the move.

George Henderson, IT Director, Silverjet, said: “The launch of Silverjet Mobile is a response to the clear demand for mobile travel services and further strengthens the Silverjet experience, which aims to deliver convenience at all points of our customer’s journey.  This innovative service will help our customers make and manage their bookings in a way that suits their increasingly hectic schedules.”

With private terminals, fares to London and New York starting at just 8,300 AED return one way (additional taxes and fees apply), and a flight experience which includes a 30 minute check in, a flat bed, and dedicated security, Silverjet is proving increasingly popular with business travellers. 

www.flysilverjet.com

4/17/2008 2:31:07 AM UTC     

Forget where you put your car keys? Blank on your brother-in-law’s name?  Train your brain with The Westin New York at Times Square’s newest wellness initiative: BrainBody Fitness, a program connecting mental and physical fitness for optimum health and just another way Westin is helping guests feel better upon checkout than when they arrived.  BrainBody Fitness—an extension of the successful WestinWORKOUT program, which already includes WestinWORKOUT guestrooms—is a series of original exercises that will be distributed at each Westin throughout North America and provide guests with simple and effective ways to sharpen their thinking and calm their minds and bodies for better health.  Westin will place expert-recommended mind and body stretches in a variety of strategic hotel touch points, including the front desk, guestroom showers, public spaces and WestinWORKOUT fitness centers.  Guests will have the chance to cross-train their brains in the shower with brain-teaser shower clings or get a mental workout poolside with signature puzzle pads and brain stretches. 

Beginning this month, The Westin New York at Times Square will introduce new key-card packets that explain the benefits of BrainBody Fitness and are stocked with a variety of brain workouts and body stretches to awaken, refresh or relax, depending on the time of day. The morning BrainBody card, for example, urges guests to stretch their bodies and minds with custom exercises that can easily be done in a hotel room; the afternoon workout might recommend a recharging meditation and simple stretch; at the end of the day, the experts suggest calming exercises.

Rates range from $349.00 to $489.00 mid-week and weekends, based upon availability, subject to change and exclusive of breakfast, taxes and gratuities. 

www.westinny.com.

4/16/2008 4:49:01 PM UTC     

Two of the biggest names in British pop music, McFly and Sugababes, will join forces to play a massive co-headline concert at Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands, Weybridge on Saturday 12th July 2008. This will be the only time this summer the two acts perform together on the same bill. For anyone with half an ear trained on chart music over the last decade, McFly and Sugababes are part of the soundtrack.

McFly topped the charts with their first single ‘Five Colours In Her Hair’ in 2004 and never looked back. They became one of the biggest bands in the country as hits like ‘Obviously’, ‘All About You’, ‘Please Please’ and ‘Baby’s Coming Back’ went straight to number one, and albums Room On The 3rd Floor, Wonderland and Motion In The Ocean sold by the lorry-load. Last year’s Greatest Hits album summed up their achievements so far, and fans can expect all the hits at Mercedes-Benz World.

Sugababes also released a Greatest Hits album in 2007. Overloaded brought together their 14 hit singles - from ‘Overload’, Freak Like Me’ and ‘Round Round’ to ‘Hole In The Head’ and ‘Push The Button’ - which have sold over 2 million copies between them. The girls added to this enviable catalogue of daring, effervescent pop songs with this year's Number 1 album Changes, featuring the smash hit ‘About You Now'. With all these pop classics to chose from, Sugababes live is one giant sing-along from start to finish.

Peter O'Halloran, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz World, commented : "We are looking forward to welcoming both McFly and the Sugababes to Mercedes-Benz World.   We are especially pleased that this concert will attract a younger audience which, combined with Elton John appearing on both the Friday and Sunday night, means we will see our widest-ranging audiences to date."

Add these two Great British bands together and you’ve got a night in pop music heaven! Tickets go on sale on Friday 18th April 2008 at 9am from Ticketmaster and See Tickets.

4/16/2008 4:35:25 AM UTC     

With summer fast approaching it’s time to take advantage of the wide range of special deals being offered by Royal Brunei Airlines, the national carrier of Brunei.  Whether you’re hoping to soak up some sun on a tranquil beach holiday, or spend the summer in the city experiencing a mix of culture and history, Royal Brunei Airlines can cater to your needs.  Offering great deals at affordable prices to some of the world’s most exotic locations, let Royal Brunei Airlines inspire you to indulge yourself today.

SUMMER SPECIAL
Brunei £642
Kota Kinabalu - £512
Ho Chi Minh City - £516
Perth - £620
Brisbane - £713

All fares include taxes, Book 07 Apr -31 May 08
Travel 07 Apr-30 June & 15 Aug- 09 Dec 08
 
POMMIES DOWN UNDER FARE
Brisbane - £632.20 - return
Perth - £528.30 - return

Book 07 - 17 April, Travel 07 April - 30 June 08 

FANTASTIC SYDNEY FARES
Economy Class: £610 - return inc taxes
Business Class: £1930 - return inc taxes

Book 07-30 April, Travel 07 April - 29 May

www.bruneiair.com

4/16/2008 2:58:26 AM UTC     

2008 is the 10 year anniversary of Hotel Schlössle, Tallinn and to celebrate this milestone occasion the hotel is offering an exclusive anniversary package running throughout the year. Guests can stay in Estonia’s award winning Schlössle Suite and enjoy a specially created evening in the privacy of their own suite.

Opened in April 1998 as the first five star hotel in Estonia, Hotel Schlössle combines charm and elegance. Located on a narrow street within a 15th century Merchant’s House, original features have been flawlessly preserved. Antique furniture, giant beams and cosy rooms teamed with impeccable service and attention to detail, provide a unique and luxurious place to stay.

“The first ten years have been successful and brought many challenges and great joy! We hope to continue this interesting journey for many years to come!” says the general manager of Schlössle Hotel, Mrs Evelin Bötker who is also herself celebrating her 10th year within the group.

Just a two hour flight from London, Tallinn makes for an ideal weekend break. From the Schlössle Hotel, the Old Town can easily be seen in a single day; viewing the rich cultural surroundings including historic churches, concert halls and enchanting architecture.

Anniversary Package for two people includes:

One night in the exclusive Schlössle Suite
Roses and Champagne in your room
Guided Walking Tour in Tallinn Old Town
Private 6-course Menu Candlelight Dinner in the suite
Private concert in your suite during dinner
Two massages and use of the Estonian Sauna
Private airport transfers
Price:  1,158EUR / 18,085 EEK, Valid from January 01 – December 31, 2008

Bookings: www.schlossle-hotels.com

4/15/2008 10:20:14 AM UTC     

Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE: DAL) and Northwest Airlines Corporation (NYSE: NWA) today announced an agreement in which the two carriers will combine in an all-stock transaction with a combined enterprise value of $17.7 billion, creating America’s premier global airline. The new airline, which will be called Delta.

Customers will benefit from the combined carriers’ complementary route networks, which together will offer people greater choice, competitive fares and a superior travel experience to more cities than any other airline. In addition, combining Delta and Northwest will create a global U.S. flag carrier strongly positioned to compete with foreign airlines that are continuing to increase service to the United States.

Delta customers will benefit from Northwest’s extensive service to Asian markets and Northwest’s customers will have access to Delta’s strengths across the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Both airlines’ customers will benefit from a strengthened SkyTeam alliance that more closely aligns the combined airline with its respective trans-Atlantic partners Air France and KLM.

4/15/2008 5:12:06 AM UTC     

Make the most of the two long weekends in May with a luxury break at one of the 11 Rocco Forte hotels. Each one is centrally located in a key European city and offers an ideal base from which to explore local events and festivals - here are just a few to choose from:

Rocco Forte’s Le Richemond, Geneva – Open Doors at Genevese Cellars, 24th May: On 24th May, over 100 wine cellars within the city of Geneva and in villages in the surrounding countryside will open to the public. As well as wine tasting and buying, there will be food and music making it a fun and lively way of sampling the local produce and visiting the city. Stay at Rocco Forte’s Le Richemond and you’ll be ideally situated in the heart of Geneva. Prices start from 450 CHF (approx £225) per room.

Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo, Brussels – Brussels Jazz Marathon, 25th-27th May: Over 400 musicians will be playing an incredible 125 concerts during Brussels’ annual Jazz Marathon (25th-27th May). The performances will take place in over 50 venues across the city – including outdoor gigs in the beautiful Grand Place, and there will be blues and latin music as well as traditional jazz. Stay at Rocco Forte’s Hotel Amigo, set just behind the Grand Place, and you’ll be in walking distance of most of the concerts. Prices start from 259 Euro (approx £207) per room, per night.

Rocco Forte’s Hotel Savoy, Florence - China: At the court of The Emperors, throughout May: Florence is hosting a spectacular new exhibition of China’s Golden Age, open over both bank holiday weekends. China: At the court of The Emperors brings together masterpieces from the more traditional Han style to the elegance of the Tang dynasty (25 - 907) and will be on display at the Palazzo Strozzi. Rocco Forte’s Hotel Savoy is including entrance to this exclusive event so guests won’t miss the chance to see exquisite artefacts, many of which have never been seen before in the West, including splendid frescoes and stone sculptures, spectacular terracotta statues and precious jewels and the rich lacquers of the Tang Dynasty. The package also includes the official catalogue in-room upon arrival. Prices start from 476 Euros (approx £340) per room per night, including breakfast and a room upgrade subject to availability. There is a minimum length of stay of three nights.

Rocco Forte’s Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg – enjoy a classic Russian experience: Extend your bank holiday weekend until the 27th May for a four-night break in St Petersburg and you’ll be part of the city’s 305th birthday celebrations, complete with fireworks and free concerts. The weekend also marks the start of the White Nights festival. For a classic Russian experience, stay at the Rocco Forte’s Hotel Astoria, which offers not only an exquisite selection of vodka and the best Russian caviar, but a package that takes in the best of the city. Prices start from RUB 79 710  (approx £1,720) per person and includes a two-hour boat tour, tickets for the ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre and a three-hour private city tour including the Peter and Paul Fortress. The price is based on two sharing and includes breakfast and return airport transfers.

To book, visit www.roccofortecollection.com

4/15/2008 5:11:06 AM UTC     

Iceland Express have announced that they will commence flying five times per week between London Gatwick and Reykjavik from 16th September, 2008.
This is in addition to a winter flying programme which includes a daily service between London Stansted and Reykjavik.

The new Gatwick flights will operate on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday departing Gatwick at 2100 arriving Keflavik International Airport at 2300. The return flights leave Keflavik at 1605 arriving Gatwick at 2000.(all times local)

Marketing Manager Birna Guðmundsdóttir said: " We have just celebrated five years of flying into Stansted where we have created a very loyal and local  passenger base with our unique blend of good fares and consistent service. We have wanted to expand into Gatwick for some time and the decision by British Airways to suspend their services to Reykjavik earlier this year means that the time is now right to do so. As with our Stansted service, we are looking for a mix of both business and leisure passengers who book directly through our award winning web site

www.IcelandExpress.com

4/15/2008 3:45:01 AM UTC     

LOT Polish Airlines is now the only carrier operating to Warsaw from London-Heathrow. And with the introduction of its summer schedule, the Polish national carrier has introduced three-times-a-week flights to Beijing from Warsaw, offering convenient connections for travellers from the UK.

With the decision by British Airways to move its Warsaw flights to London-Gatwick, LOT now has exclusive use of Heathrow for flights to its home hub in the Polish capital. LOT operates three flights a day to Warsaw from London, offering a full Business Class service aboard its Boeing 737-400 and 737-500 aircraft.

As an additional service to Warsaw-bound passengers, effective 9 April the carrier has introduced online check-in facilities, easing the process at Heathrow’s Terminal 1.

The introduction of the summer schedule also sees LOT resuming services to Beijing after an absence of almost 10 years. Evening flights depart on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Return flights operate Monday, Thursday and Saturday.  The route is operated with long-range Boeing 767 aircraft.

LOT Regional Director UK & Ireland Slawomir Noszczak commented: ‘Heathrow remains the first choice departure airport for business travellers and we therefore anticipate continuing traffic growth on our Warsaw flights from London. We have already established a strong reputation as a business carrier and we look forward to welcoming even more passengers to our services.

‘In addition, the launch of flights to Beijing is the first step towards expanding our long-haul network to the Far East. The close economic ties between Asia and Europe and an ever-increasing number of tourists to the region make this a prime area for expansion for LOT. With the strategic position of Warsaw, we also expect passenger growth from across Europe, connecting with onward flights at our home hub.’

4/14/2008 5:32:37 AM UTC     

UK businesses are less pessimistic about the state of the economy than analysts may suggest, according to research released from the annual Barclaycard Business Travel Survey. The survey, now in its 12th year, canvasses the views of more than 3,000 business travellers across the country, building a comprehensive picture of the UK’s business traveller, gauging views on business travel and travel behaviour.

Despite widely reported fears of an economic slowdown, the Barclaycard Business travel survey reveals that 44 per cent of respondents travelled more in 2007 than they did in 2006. And one in three respondents (33%) plan to travel more in 2008 than they did in 2007. 36 per cent cited business expansion in the UK as the main reason, and 31 per cent citing overseas expansion.

However, spending is under closer scrutiny, with business travel no longer meaning ‘business class’ travel.  More businesses are focussed on managing and minimising costs, with more than half (55%) saying they are most likely to fly economy class when travelling for business. This compares with 46 per cent in the previous year.

Denise Leleux, Director of Commercial Cards, Barclaycard Business said: “Travelling on business to expand into new markets or win new business has always been an indicator of economic confidence. This year’s results show that confidence is still there and that business people are still positive about economic and business growth. But they are also becoming even more cost conscious – perhaps more so this year than before.  And it is clear that the long term impact of premium economy services on many long-haul scheduled carriers is continuing”.

easyJet and Ryanair have increased the market share but British Airways remains the most used airline for business travel (28%).

Luxury, all-frills accommodation is also on the decline for business travellers, with more than half (54%) choosing hotels based on value for money. Indeed, 49 per cent said that the cost of a hotel was the sole factor when choosing accommodation.

4/13/2008 1:52:31 PM UTC     

Mexico and Central America's leading airline Mexicana, has accepted a formal invitation to become part of the oneworld airline alliance after being unanimously elected on board by the grouping's existing ten member airlines. Its subsidiary Click Mexicana will join at the same time, as an affiliate member of oneworld.

Mexicana and Click Mexicana will be flying as part of oneworld in 2009, when they will start offering the alliance's full range of services and benefits to their own customers and those from their new oneworld partners.

For oneworld, adding Mexicana will expand the alliance's network in Mexico and Central America, and enable it to build further on its positions as the leading airline grouping serving Latin America and the leading Spanish-speaking alliance.

oneworld is already the only global alliance with any airline members based in South America - through LAN Airlines and its sisters LAN Argentina, LAN Ecuador and LAN Peru. American Airlines is the leading airline serving the region internationally, and Iberia is the leading carrier between Latin America and Europe.

www.oneworld.com

4/13/2008 1:49:55 PM UTC     

UK regional carrier, Eastern Airways, have increased weekday services on the following routes: Leeds Bradford to Aberdeen from 3 to 4 flights a day, Leeds Bradford to Southampton from 3 to 4 flights a day, Newcastle to Cardiff from 2 to 3 flights a day and Manchester to London Stansted from 3 to 4 flights a day (Monday to Thursday).

This latest move by the airline follows last month’s increase of weekday flights to six a day from Aberdeen to Newcastle, four a day from Southampton to Aberdeen and four a day from Newcastle to Southampton.

“Our enhanced services are tailored to meet the needs of business commuters,” said Chris Holliday, Eastern Airways’ chief operating officer. “As with many of our services we are offering the best choice of flights enabling travellers to conduct important business away from the office without the need for an overnight stay.”

www.easternairways.com

4/13/2008 1:48:43 PM UTC     

Wine enthusiasts wishing to learn about the process of winemaking can enjoy a luxury break at a private wine estate in the heart of the Tuscan region of Maremma, with a special ‘wine connoisseurs’ package from Sanctuary Villas & Apartments.
 
The wine connoisseurs week is based at villa Podere Il Poggio, which is situated within a working farm in the Tuscan wine region of Maremma. The package will include three half-day lessons held at Podere Il Poggio’s own wine estate.
 
The property is located just 2km from Ribolla and is just fifteen minutes drive to the exclusive Grosseto beach resorts. Florence Airport is 140km away.
 
www.sanctuary-villas.com

4/13/2008 1:47:06 PM UTC     

Sofitel Hotels in North America are to purchase clean, renewable, wind energy for all nine Sofitel locations in the U.S. This purchase of wind generated power in the form of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) qualifies Sofitel Hotels as an EPA Green Power Partner, making it the first hotel chain to choose green power for each of the brand’s hotel locations in the country.

“We’re proud to step up as a leader in our industry and to do our part for the environment. Our customers recognize and value the commitment we’ve made to a safe and secure energy future. We hope others will follow our lead and make the choice as well,” said Robert Moore, senior vice president of Technical Services for Accor North America.

Sofitel has nine locations throughout the United States including two in Chicago and one in Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington, DC. These properties will buy a total of 1,527,000 kilowatt hours (kWhs) of renewable energy.

Compared to the average generation mix in the regional electric grid, the environmental benefit from this purchase is equal to offsetting approximately two million pounds of carbon dioxide per year, the impact of which is equivalent to planting more than 800 acres of trees each year or not driving 2.36 million miles.

www.accor.com

4/13/2008 1:45:34 PM UTC     

Europcar has opened the largest car rental location in Europe close to Heathrow Terminal 5 on the Perimeter Road. The site features a series of industry-leading customer service initiatives that significantly enhance the car rental experience for in-bound and out-bound business and leisure customers. 

With a total fleet of 4,500 vehicles and resources to handle up to 190,000 check-ins and check-outs per annum, the new location supports customers from all brands in the Europcar UK Group – Europcar, National Car Rental, Alamo Rent A Car and Guy Salmon Prestige Rental.   Critically, the new site features a completely new and best in class courtesy coach fleet providing a highly frequent service between all terminals, with a dedicated facility for Terminal 5.  

“Travellers want a swift and stress-free transition – whether it’s from plane to car or car to plane and that has been our total focus in the creation of this industry leading facility.  By opening the largest car rental location in Europe, with some of the most advanced customer service initiatives in the sector, we are reinforcing our position as the UK’s Number One car rental provider” confirmed John Leigh, Managing Director, Europcar UK Group.

www.europcar.co.uk

4/13/2008 1:43:20 PM UTC     

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has launched Yatt'it, a new online travel community providing insight and tips from Hyatt concierges in over 40 destinations, together with advice from frequent travellers, discussion forums and direct-booking options.

www.hyatt.com

United Airlines are to offer complimentary Wi-Fi access in 27 of its Red Carpet Clubs and five International First Class lounges at US airports.

www.united.com

US Airways has re-launched its business class service by added near-flat seats and an extended menu as part of a revamp of its Envoy transatlantic business class.

www.usairways.co.uk

4/13/2008 1:40:43 PM UTC     

United Airlines and Aer Lingus have signed an agreement to offer code share flights, which pending government approval and is expected to begin around 1 November 2008 It would expand the international destinations and frequent flyer benefits offered to customers of both carriers.

The proposed agreement will result in more flight options for customers travelling between the United States and Ireland. The carriers also plan to give customers of United's Mileage Plus and Aer Lingu’s Gold Circle Club programmes the opportunity to redeem miles to travel to new destinations and to accrue frequent flyer miles on select flights.

www.united.com www.aerlingus.com

4/13/2008 1:39:42 PM UTC     

Millennium and Copthorne Hotels plc (M&C) has welcomed its latest addition into the Group with 521 room Grand Millennium Beijing, opening its doors for business on 10 April 2008.

Grand Millennium Beijing is located 25 minutes from Beijing’s Airport and is situated in the heart of Beijing’s financial and business district. The location provides immediate access to a full range of public transport, and is minutes away from many major corporate offices, embassies and exhibition centres. The hotel is the centrepiece of the Fortune Plaza Complex, which offers luxury and lifestyle shopping.

All essential facilities for modern day travellers are available at the 5 star hotel including, complimentary high speed broadband internet connection, a Business Centre, a modern Spa and Fitness Centre, indoor swimming pool, five restaurants and bars and one Executive Club Lounge.

www.millenniumhotels.co.uk

4/13/2008 1:38:34 PM UTC     

The Connaught, the legendary Mayfair hotel built in 1897, has opened its doors after a £70 million restoration and renovation programme. The detailed work includes a magnificent redesign of the guest rooms, suites and interiors.

www.the-connaught.co.uk

Zurich’s iconic city resort, The Dolder Grand, which dates back to 1899, has re-opened following a four year, US$400 million facelift. The historic Zurich landmark has been transformed into a stunning, modern 5-star city resort by world-renowned London architects Foster and Partners.

www.doldergrand.ch

The 320 room Crowne Plaza Changi is to open at the beginning of May this year. The resort style hotel is linked to the new T3 by covered walk way.

www.ichotelsgroup.com

Edinburgh's Point Hotel has re-branded as the Mercure Point Hotel after signing a 20-year agreement with Accor. The 139-bed hotel, located in the Grassmarket area of the city, joins the Mercure UK portfolio comprising a total of 28 hotels.

www.accor.com

4/8/2008 4:13:35 PM UTC     

Hong Kong Express Airways has launched a new scheduled service to Okinawa, Japan. The flights will initially operate twice weekly increasing to four flights per week from April 28^th.

Further planned route launches set to take place over the coming weeks will see Hong Kong Express Airways ultimately offer direct flights between Hong Kong and Hiroshima, Kagoshima, Nagoya and Okayama.  The airline has also already established its first office in the country in Okinawa.

www.hongkongexpress.com

4/6/2008 12:02:14 PM UTC     

50 years ago – on the 31st of March 1958 – Austrian Airlines took off for its first flight with a Vickers Viscount 779 from Vienna to London. After this maiden flight further scheduled services to Frankfurt, Zurich, Stuttgart, Paris, Rome and Warsaw were launched in the first year of operations of which Warsaw was the first Eastern European destination in the company’s network. Soon followed by Moscow, Bucharest, Belgrade and Sofia in 1959, Vienna developed into a hub providing West-East air transport in the decades that followed.

The Austrian Airlines Group now carries its passengers to 130 destinations around the world. Where the company transported 25,567 passengers and 186 tons of cargo in 1958, it carried 10.8 million passengers and 150,335 tons of cargo in 2007.

As well as a lavish party at their headquarters to celebrate the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the first Austrian Airlines scheduled flight, the company has launched services using one of its aircraft in a design dating back to the 1950s. The Austrian Airbus A320 now appears in the same design as the first aircraft ever flown by Austrian Airlines, the Vickers Viscount, from 1958.

Austrian Airlines Group CEO Alfred Ötsch said, “50 years of Austrian Airlines means 50 years of successful Austrian civil aviation. Since making our first flight to London on 31 March 1958, we have brought together many millions of people from every country in the world, and we are a natural ambassador and powerful advertisement for Austria itself. Austrian Airlines has worked hard to develop a truly outstanding reputation as a quality carrier in every continent of the world and in so doing has transported typically Austrian values such as hospitality and charm around the world. With its successful Focus East strategy, uncompromising insistence upon quality and hugely dedicated workforce, the red-white-red tailfin of Austrian is perfectly positioned to enjoy an independent future.”

www.austrianairlines.co.uk

4/6/2008 11:54:29 AM UTC     

Maçka Palas, one of the finest buildings in Istanbul, is soon to become home to Park Hyatt Istanbul-Maçka Palas, following the hotel’s scheduled opening this summer. Ideally located in the fashionable Nişantaşi residential and shopping district, the hotel uniquely combines the historic architecture of an Art Deco building with innovative interior design.

Each guestroom will be equipped with high-speed broadband Internet access, a digital telephone with voice mail messaging, a flat-screen television, a DVD player and JBL i-Pod stations. Ergonomic work areas cater to the needs of the global business traveller. Facilities will include an in-room safe to fit standard-size laptops, large closets and individual climate control. Tea & coffee services will be available in the rooms.

25 of the rooms even include an authentic Turkish bath, complete with heated stone seat.

www.hyatt.com

4/6/2008 11:49:02 AM UTC     

Turkish Airlines became the 20th member of Star Alliance in ceremonies in Istanbul yesterday, culminating a 16-month process that began in December 2006 when the airline signed a protocol agreement to join the grouping.

"With Turkish Airlines we have gained a new member carrier with a strong home market which is also one of the fastest growing economies in the world," Star CEO Jaan Albrecht said. THY brings 31 unique destinations to the alliance, mainly in Turkey, Central Asia and the Middle East, he said. Including THY, Star members operate 18,000 daily flights serving 965 airports in 162 countries.

www.staralliance.com

4/6/2008 11:42:17 AM UTC     

Whatley Manor, the beautifully restored private manor house hotel set amidst 12 acres of Wiltshire countryside, has produced an events guide featuring a wide range of inspiring short break ideas over the next few months – creating even more reasons for guests to indulge themselves with a stay at this luxurious rural hideaway.

Highlights for the season include the Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trails from 1-4 May; midweek Spa Indulgence deals; special weekend packages for the Spring and May Bank Holidays; and several tempting champagne and wine-tasting events.

www.whatleymanor.com

4/6/2008 11:40:37 AM UTC     

If you want a romantic weekend away with a difference, The Howard in Edinburgh is offering you the opportunity to spend a day taking in Scotland’s breathtaking countryside in the car that revolutionised sports car design – The Jaguar E-type Roadster, that was once described by Enzo Ferrari as ‘the most beautiful car ever made’.

You will be waited on by the Howard’s own professional team of butlers, who will pack you a gourmet picnic hamper and provide suggested tour routes - so all that’s left for you to do is get the roof down, sunglasses on and foot to the floor!

The Howard, a beautiful 5-star hotel in the heart of Edinburgh, is offering
The Classic Cars package from £435.00 per person. This includes two nights luxury accommodation including a full Scottish breakfast on each morning, a dedicated butler service, one full day hire of a Jaguar E-type Roadster, a freshly prepared gourmet hamper and touring map for your road trip, and a three course dinner served in the Atholl on one night. The package is valid until 31st October 2008.

www.thehoward.com

4/6/2008 11:37:02 AM UTC     

Ethiopian Airlines and Lufthansa German Airlines have commenced daily code share services between Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Frankfurt, Germany.

“The new code share agreement marks a significant landmark as we are now in the position to offer our customers daily connections between Addis Ababa and Lufthansa’s hub in Frankfurt, with convenient onward flights,” said Mr. Tewolde Mariam, Chief Operating Officer of Ethiopian.

The agreement strengthens Ethiopian's position in Germany and other European markets by creating additional possibilities to access traffic through the extensive network of Lufthansa.

Ethiopian currently operates three weekly services from Addis Ababa to Frankfurt, while Lufthansa currently flies the route four times weekly.

Members of Ethiopian’s ShebaMiles and Lufthansa’s Miles and More award programs can now earn and redeem miles on international and domestic scheduled flights of both airlines.

www.ethiopianairlines.com www.lufthansa.com

4/6/2008 11:25:38 AM UTC     

Expansion and development of the Departure Lounge at London City Airport is underway. From May 2008 passengers will enjoy more room, extra seating and new airport shops and bars.

At the same time the airport will launch four new stands for aircraft.

These improvements are part of our overall plan to develop the airport, including a planning application for an increase in flight movements to 120,000 per year from the current level of 80,000. As well as allowing the airport to offer more flights to more destinations, this will create more local jobs at the airport. Currently about 2,000 local jobs are supported by the airport's activity - this would increase by around 1,000 jobs if the application is approved.

From 31 March BA CityFlyer will offer flights to Nice from London City Airport, with fares starting from just £53.00 one way (including taxes, fees and charges). Flights to Nice will initially operate once daily, Monday to Friday and Sunday, and then seven days a week from 6 May 2008.

From 6 May BA CityFlyer will also offer direct flights to Warsaw, Barcelona and Amsterdam.

www.londoncityairport.com

4/6/2008 11:17:13 AM UTC     

Business and leisure travellers now have a new haven from the bustle of Japan’s capital with the opening of the Best Western Shinjuku Astina Hotel Tokyo.

“Best Western Shinjuku Astina Hotel Tokyo is a welcome addition to our Japanese portfolio,” said Glenn de Souza, Best Western Vice President – International Operations Asia. “Each of the hotel’s 206 rooms features traditional European décor with a Japanese flair along with a work area, high-speed internet access, spacious beds and wall-mounted televisions.”

The hotel is ideally located in shopping and entertainment district and close to Shinjuku Gyoen.

www.bestwestern.com

4/6/2008 11:13:24 AM UTC     

A year ago Four Points by Sheraton appointed the world’s first-ever Chief Beer Officer (CBO), Scott Kerkmans.

After a year in office the resident CBO has realised that a dream job can come with a nightmare workload and is seeking a little help and is searching for a Best Brews Summer intern. The lucky lad or lass will assist the CBO with his Best Brews duties including beer tasting, trend research and brewery relations.

Candidates must be over the age of 21 and apply by email to the Four Points Chief Beer Officer, Scott Kerkmans at cbo@fourpoints.com along with a cover letter.

The deadline for applicants is April 26.

4/6/2008 7:13:03 AM UTC     

Manx2.com is adding a Saturday flight to the Isle of Man from East Midlands Airport.

The airline launched daily services, except Saturdays, on March 3, but said bookings have been so strong, it is now adding a Saturday flight.

This will leave the Isle of Man at 09.00, with the return flight departing the same day from East Midlands Airport at 1030.

www.manx2.com

4/6/2008 7:04:03 AM UTC     

Jurys Inns, the Dublin based hotel group will be launching their newest UK hotel in April in Liverpool – the 2008 European Capital of Culture on Friday 18^th April.

The hotel has a great riverside location, being part of the Kings Waterfront development which incorporates the new 10,600 capacity Liverpool Echo Arena and 1,350 seater Convention Centre. It is adjacent to the ever-popular Albert Dock; home to cafes, bars, nightclubs, shops and the iconic Tate Gallery. 

Each of the 310 spacious bedrooms will feature high-speed internet access, multi-channel flat-screen TV, self-control air-conditioning and a direct dial telephone. The Jurys Inns fixed room rate pricing policy offers excellent value for money with rates starting at £59.

www.jurysinns.com

4/6/2008 7:00:08 AM UTC     

Jet-setting business executives wanting to rest their weary heads on something more than a travel pillow get that wish and more with Amara Singapore’s newly designed executive club floors.

The art deco-inspired interior of three of the hotel floors are both classy yet warmly inviting. From the wooden panelling to the fresh flowers and special pillows and sheets in each executive suite, Amara Singapore gives a new meaning to the term “business class”.

Amara Singapore, General Manager, Mr Lakshman Perera says, “The upgrading and fine tuning of the top three executive floors was to meet the ever changing demands of corporate travellers. The crisp and efficient butler service also goes hand-in-hand with the elegant rooms we’ve created.”

Amara Singapore is slowly but steadily gaining a niche reputation as a provider of contemporary business-class accommodation. With its sister property, Amara Sanctuary Resort making waves in the boutique luxury resorts sector and some projects further a field in foreign locales, the Amara Group is rapidly expanding its portfolio.

www.singapore.amarahotels.com

4/6/2008 6:50:03 AM UTC     

Sunvil Sailing is offering a week’s live-aboard flotilla holiday, with learn-to-sail tuition for novices, departing 11 and 18 May from Lefkas island in the Greek Ionian Sea at just £179 per person excluding flights and transfers. For those preferring to take Sunvil’s all-inclusive package the price rises to £539 with return flights from London Gatwick and transfers in Greece.