The Westin New York at Times Square is offering a “Sex and the City” weekend package in honor of the flick, which will be released May 30th.  Scenes from the film -- which finds Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda four years after the hit HBO series as they continue to juggle jobs and relationships while navigating marriage, motherhood and Manhattan real estate -- were shot near the hotel.

Fans of Carrie & Co. will enjoy: One-night accommodation in newly renovated guestrooms with Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed® and Heavenly Bath® Two tickets to the movie at the 13-theater Regal E-Walk Stadium that is interconnected to the hotel Two cosmopolitans (Carrie’s favorite drink) at the hotel’s Bar 10, a second-story hotspot

Starting at $434* per room, per night, the package is valid for weekend arrivals (Thursday through Sunday) May 25 through July 30, 2008.

www.westinny.com.

5/2/2008 5:43:45 PM UTC     

A honeymoon to the Kempinksi Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, Jordan is quite truly the perfect beginning to the enchanting union of marriage. The hotel benefits from being positioned on the stunning shores of the Dead Sea, one of the most beautiful locations in the world. Its spectacular views across to Hebron allows newly-weds to enjoy numerous romantic Arabian nights in the surroundings of Jordan’s most luxurious hotel. 

To ensure guest’s honeymoons are as hassle-free as possible, the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar has concocted two perfect packages so even the most demanding brides and grooms’ needs are met! From the moment the plane touches down in Amman they will be whisked away into a whirlwind of unadulterated luxury!

For just £1,063 per person, honeymooners can enjoy four blissful nights in a luxurious Ishtar Suite. They will be met at the airport by one of the hotel’s drivers, and during their stay they will be treated like royalty, benefiting from exclusive honeymoon amenities and turndown service, including a bottle of Champagne and Lulu bath (with aromatic oils and rose petals), a romantic private dining experience on the shores of the hotel’s own beach, breakfast in bed, and Ishtar farewell gifts so they can remember this once-in-a-lifetime experience for the rest of their lives!

Alternatively, honeymononers can opt for an extra opulent package! Intertwining a fairytale honeymoon with the reality of a wonderful holiday, guests will be given in addition to the previous package: two extra nights in that lavish suite, a delicious five course candlelit dinner in a location on their choice, a 90 minute aromatic massage at the world-famous Anantara spa and a wedding tea!

www.kempinski-deadsea.com

5/2/2008 5:41:31 PM UTC     

The Rocco Forte Collection launches The Rocco Forte Suite Experience, designed to give guests an unrivalled level of service. Already amongst the biggest and best in Europe, the luxurious suites in The Rocco Forte Collection will now offer a new range of services, including:

• A complimentary packing and unpacking service, whereby a specially-trained member of staff will hang and arrange each item upon arrival and carefully repack upon departure. Also included is complimentary pressing of the garments on arrival
• A state-of-the-art mobile phone for complimentary local use, pre-programmed with the most useful numbers in the area and providing a direct line to reception and the concierge, from wherever you are in the city
• An in-suite check-in
• Complimentary in-suite breakfast every day
• Plus complimentary movies and internet use, as well as many other extras

These unique and complimentary services are designed to allow guests to unwind, relax and simply enjoy the suite, each of which is entirely unique; depending on which hotel you visit, you may find a baby grand piano at your disposal, a private chef or butler to cater to your every whim, or even a state-of-the-art steamroom or sauna to enjoy in the privacy of your suite. So, take your pick and come and enjoy Rocco Forte’s Art of Simple Luxury. Prices for the suites range from 460 Euro (approx £363)
 
www.roccofortecollection.com

5/2/2008 5:40:37 PM UTC     

Larger aircraft are to be introduced by LOT Polish Airlines on its London-Heathrow to Warsaw service to cope with booming business class traffic. The Polish national carrier has recorded growth of more than 50 per cent* in executive travellers since the introduction of its summer schedule (March 30 2008), when it became the only carrier flying to Warsaw from Heathrow. British Airways has shifted its Warsaw flights to Gatwick.

From June, LOT will replace its current 108-seat Boeing 737-500s with the larger 400 range, offering 147 seats on its peak time services. LOT’s UK and Ireland regional director, Slawomir Noszczak, commented: ‘We always believed that business travellers would want to continue to fly to Warsaw from Heathrow and our exceptional sales figures speak for themselves. ‘Business class sales are booming and we need additional capacity to meet demand. The larger 737-400s will undoubtedly help us meet it, particularly as we have a flexible business class cabin configuration.’

LOT has also recently introduced online check-in for Warsaw-bound passengers to ease their passage through Heathrow’s Terminal 1. The summer schedule also saw LOT resuming services to Beijing after an absence of almost 10 years.

www.lot.com

5/2/2008 5:39:44 PM UTC     

Iceland  Express  will,  from  June  1st,  provide its passengers with more choice  of  meals  onboard  by  adding  healthier food to the menu. The new selection  will  consist  of pasta and salad meals, fruit salad, pizzas and sandwiches. The  meals  produced for Iceland Express will not include peanuts, kiwis or any additives.

"Passengers  have  increasingly been asking for more fresh and healthy food onboard  and  therefore  we decided to change our menu in co-operation with Avaxtabillinn.  The  company  is  known  for producing high quality product which  we  are  proud  to  be  able to offer our passengers," said Matthias Imsland, managing director of Iceland Express.

Meals  onboard  Iceland  Express'  airlines  will continue to be offered at reasonable  prices.  In this way the airline can offer tickets at low rates while  still providing high quality service for those who want such service onboard.

5/2/2008 5:35:58 PM UTC     

Langham Place Eco Resort + Spa, the five-star resort on Koh Lanta, Krabi, has launched its ‘All About Me’ series of packages, providing flexibility for travellers wishing to holiday on the beautiful island of Koh Lanta.

The Buy Me, Place Me, Indulge Me and Surprise Me packages have been created to offer guests special deals that meet their requirements during their stay. Starting at only 6,000 Baht (approx £96) for two people sharing, the special packages offer three nights accommodation, daily international breakfast, a daily fresh fruit basket, complimentary use of the movie house and music rooms, tennis court, fully-equipped gym, water sports equipment, and late check-out at 4 pm.

Located on the Island of Koh Lanta , in Krabi province, Southern Thailand, Langham Place Eco Resort + Spa is a five-star stimulating resort designed to coexist in perfect harmony with awe-inspiring natural landscapes. 

W: http://krabi.langhamplacehotels.com

4/28/2008 8:09:49 AM UTC     

Forget where you put your car keys? Blank on your brother-in-law’s name?  Train your brain with Westin® Hotels & Resorts.

A new BrainBody Fitness focus connects mental and physical exercise for optimum health and is just another way to help guests feel better when they leave Westin, than when they arrived.

An extension of the successful WestinWORKOUT® program, which already includes WestinWORKOUT gyms and WestinWORKOUT guestrooms, it will introduce the popular game of Sudoku throughout properties in Europe, Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Asia Pacific.
 
This follows the brand’s recent announcement of its partnership with Nikoli Company Limited, the leading creator and publisher of puzzle magazines in Japan, to craft unique formats of Sudoku games to help our guests unwind, de-stress and exercise their mind.  Sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle invented over 25 years ago.
 
Westin and Nikoli are working in partnership on a series of activities to promote and engage guests with the Sudoku experience. This includes building real life Sudoku Sanctuaries in the centre of key European cities this summer, namely London, Paris, Milan and Madrid.

BrainBody Fitness joins a host of initiatives aimed at personal renewal recently introduced by the brand including a new in-room spa program, Unwindsm evening rituals—mini lessons, tastings and art installments that help guests connect with each other and the culture of their surroundings and customized  WestinWORKOUT guestrooms featuring in-room state-of-the-art, full-body equipment for all levels of performance where guests can elevate their travel and work well-being with a challenging and exhilarating workout.

4/28/2008 8:08:58 AM UTC     

Conference delegates can now combine business with pleasure.  Hand Picked Hotels is offering delegates the chance to wind down and feel refreshed for the evening ahead with the special Twilight Fix package.

Available at four of the award winning Hand Picked Hotel Spas, Rookery Hall Hotel in Cheshire, Norton House Hotel in Edinburgh, Nutfield Priory Hotel in Surrey and Brandshatch Place Hotel in Kent, the Twilight Fix Package is designed to complement day and 24 hour packages. 

Delegates can arrive at the hotel Spa from 4.30pm and enjoy an unwinding spa experience including a 25 minute mini spa treatment with the choice of five different treatments which includes a back, neck and shoulders massage or a mini manicure and enjoy full use of the spa facilities. The Twilight Fix experience also comes complete with a glass of Champagne, the perfect way to start the evening. 

This Twilight Fix package is available from £39 per person and can be booked between Monday and Thursday 4.30pm - 9pm at Rookery Hall, Norton House, Brandshatch and Nutfield Priory.

www.handpicked.co.uk

4/28/2008 8:08:06 AM UTC     

The opening of five refurbished bedrooms on the top floor of Midhurst’s famous Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa marks the completion of a nearly £1million upgrading and improvement project at the hotel.

In addition to the top floor traditional double rooms , which all now feature new bathrooms, flat screen televisions ,exposed beams and climate control , the project has included the renovation of the Queen’s Suite, once used by Queen Elizabeth 1. The bedroom, bathroom and sitting room of the famous suite now measure 60 m2 but when the adjoining Edward VII entertaining room is added, the total area measures an impressive 102m2 making it one of the biggest single bedroom suites in the country.

The completion of the improvement project confirms the Spread Eagle’s position as one of the most charming and relaxing hotels in Sussex. To mark the completion, the hotel is making a special Spring Offer of dinner, bed and breakfast for£82.50 per person. The offer runs until the end of May and is available on Sunday to Thursday nights inclusive.

www.hshotels.co.uk.

4/28/2008 8:07:19 AM UTC     

As part of its £120m ‘Nip and Tuck” refurbishment programme, Marriott Hotels is introducing an exciting and extensive range of new dining and restaurant concepts in a major upgrade of its food and beverage offering. Each new concept is specifically designed to meet the needs and requirements of particular hotel and guest profiles.

New restaurants vary in design and food offering, though all reflect a move toward natural, healthy and locally-sourced ingredients as well as an ambience of casual relaxation.

Already in operation at the Heathrow/Windsor Marriott Hotel and London Marriott Hotel Regent’s Park, Brasserie Centrale is designed to give the look and feel of a contemporary French Mediterranean style of brasserie.  Created to provide classical and consistent food which everyone enjoys, Brasserie Centrale serves food in a rejuvenating and refreshing atmosphere.

Five UK Marriott hotels will also gain their own bespoke restaurants. The Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel will feature the Highcliff Grill, a restaurant offering grilled seafood to reflect its location overlooking the bay, whilst the Marriott Meon Valley Hotel and Country Club will offer its guests dishes made with locally sourced ingredients at its 5ive restaurant, named after the five human senses.

The Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel will feature Dahlila, a new restaurant that provides its guests with all the excitement and drama of cooking via an open show kitchen and an emphasis on natural products. Milgate’s will be at the Marriott Tudor Park Hotel and Country Club whilst cLevel, featuring a strong emphasis on seafood, opens at the Portsmouth Marriott Hotel.

Whilst some of the new restaurants are already completed and in operation, roll-out will continue across Marriott Hotels’ portfolio until the end of this year.

www.marriott.co.uk

4/28/2008 8:06:10 AM UTC     

Japan Airlines will inaugurate a regular daily charter service between Haneda Airport, Tokyo and Hong Kong from July 1, 2008. Tickets for the new route go on sales today (April 25, 2008). The new JAL route will provide customers traveling to and from Hong Kong with added convenience as central Tokyo can be reached in less than 30 minutes from Haneda airport (HND).

The airline plans to operate a 237-seat B767-300ER on the new route. The aircraft will feature an economy class cabin and, still to be decided, possibly business class as well. JAL currently offers 2 flights a day between Narita International Airport, Tokyo (NRT) and Hong Kong. Including code shares, the airline offers a twice daily service between Osaka (Kansai) and Hong Kong, and a daily service between Fukuoka and Hong Kong which is routed via Taipei. The airline already operates a twice-daily service between Haneda and Seoul (Gimpo Airport) and a daily service.

4/25/2008 4:13:22 AM UTC     

Emirates Airline has signed an agreement with leading UK-based insurer BUPA Travel Services to offer customers extra peace of mind when they travel.

Travellers managing their Emirates flight bookings online can now opt for travel insurance protection which has been specially tailored for Emirates customers.  This includes: unlimited cover in the event of a medical emergency, credit card theft, and even kennel and cattery fees.

Unlike most other offerings in the market, insurance cover can be purchased by almost all nationalities (except residents of USA, Canada and Switzerland) for various trip durations, and for travellers up to the age of 80.

4/25/2008 4:12:43 AM UTC     

Lufthansa has chosen the UK and Ireland as a key launch market for its pioneering Mobile Services product.  Now, by simply using their mobile phones to access the new portal, mobile.lufthansa.com, passengers can quickly book flights, check in and select their seats on an interactive seat map, even when on the move.  Additional features include actual arrival and departure times, flight schedules or mileage summaries.  Individual booking summaries are also readily available. 

“Selecting the UK & Ireland as one of the initial launch markets outside Germany shows just how much we value our customers here“ says Marianne Sammann, Lufthansa General Manager UK & Ireland. “I am sure this new service will prove to be invaluable, particularly to business travellers.  Especially as, under the heading “Information”, users can not only find actual flight information but other relevant travel information such as public transport arrivals and departures, airport buses and rail connections, or book hotels via Lufthansa’s partner, HRS.  Additional important information concerning baggage regulations as well as a worldwide lounge directory with locations and hours of operation can also be accessed.

www.lufthansa.com. 

4/25/2008 4:12:04 AM UTC     

Virgin Atlantic, one of the world’s leading long-haul airlines, is to be the Official Airline of the 2008 European Ryder Cup Team.

Special dispensation has been granted for the Team to fly direct from London Heathrow to Louisville International Airport onboard a Virgin Atlantic Airbus A340-600 for The 2008 Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Kentucky, USA from 19 to 21 September 2008.

European Captain Nick Faldo and his 12 man team will fly out on Monday 15 September to defend the Ryder Cup before flying back the following Monday 22 September.

Virgin Atlantic was the Official Airline Sponsor of the European Ryder Cup Team’s last visit to America in 2004 for their record breaking winning score of 18½ - 9½ at Oakland Hills County Club in Michigan, USA.

Sir Richard Branson, President, Virgin Atlantic, said: “It is a great honour for us to be carrying Nick Faldo and his teammates to Louisville. This is the second time that Virgin Atlantic has been chosen to carry the team and the Ryder Cup, and we are thrilled that Europe’s top golfers have selected us again. I’m sure they can do Europe proud and win again.”

4/25/2008 4:11:19 AM UTC     

Hand Picked Hotels, the award winning collection of country house hotels, is offering the ultimate girly sleepover at four of its luxury UK properties. Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa in Cheshire, Norton House Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh, Nutfield Priory Hotel & Spa in Surrey and Brandshatch Hotel & Spa in Kent are introducing a special ‘girls’ night in’ sleepover package complete with spa treatments and entertainment for all those special occasions. 

For the ultimate hen night, birthday celebration or just an excuse to get together with the girls, Hand Picked Hotels’ exquisite country homes will create a pampering and fun evening to remember.

Guests can arrive at ease at the hotel from 3pm and check into their rooms before visiting the hotel spa to enjoy the Twilight Spa experience. This includes a glass of champagne, mini facial, file and polish of either fingers or toes and a cosmetic make over. 

As well as a pampering session, the girls can enjoy full use of the spa facilities during their stay.  Later that evening, return to your bedroom and enjoy a selection of pre-ordered room service supper and drinks accompanied by DVD’s and popcorn/sweets End your sleepover with a traditional full English breakfast the next morning before checking out.

The sleepover package is priced from £195 per person and includes use of spa facilities, mini facial, choice of file and polish of fingers or toes, cosmetic make over, use of DVD library, two course room service menu, popcorn/sweets, glass of champagne, traditional breakfast and accommodation based upon two sharing a twin or double room.

www.handpicked.co.uk 

4/25/2008 4:10:30 AM UTC     

TravelPlus had hoped to report in this issue on a glorious period for air travel. After all we had Open Skies to look forward to, the opening of new airport facilities across the globe, new aircraft coming on line, and many carriers, such as Oasis, promising an upgrade to their onboard product and services.

Open Skies has been a reality since 30 March but initially only seems to offer more of the same. The exception is the introduction of a service between London Heathrow and Los Angeles by Air France. While we can look forward to an increase in offer for services between Europe and the US, there is a real concern that at Europe's busiest airports the price to pay will be a big drop in the number of short haul flights on offer to destinations that are not major feeder hubs.

By now London Heathrow's Terminal 5 needs no introduction. We did warn you that the media would look to find fault with British Airways and BAA, but when you are the front page story in every publication from Private Eye to The Economist you know that something has either gone spectacularly right or spectacularly wrong. Sadly the latter seems to have been the case but at TravelPlus we still live in the hope that BA and BAA will get their act together, and quickly. What the general reporting of the story is overlooking, however, is how much certain unionised bodies may have held an interest in Terminal 5's launch not going to plan. Are we now looking at a summer of (union) discontent?

It has not been a great period for the aircraft manufacturers either. Singapore Airlines new A380 has suffered a few teething problems with the fuel lines, while other airlines had to ground their 777, 737 and MD-80 fleets for technical upgrades and/or safety checks. Then came news that Boeing's new Dreamliner has been delayed again and won't enter service until the end of 2009 at best. All has added to the headaches already faced by weary travellers.

Then there are the airlines. Oasis, that had only recently announced an upgrade to its premium product, called it a day on 9 April, the fourth airline in a two-week period to call a halt to operations. The others being the US carriers ATA, Aloha and Skybus. Silverjet, however, did find itself the centre of takeover rumours and admitted to being "'in discussions which may or may not lead to an offer for the issued share capital of the company."

Hopefully what we have experienced in recent months is just a small area of turbulence and that ahead lies calm and open skies for us all to enjoy. Sadly there are groups like Plane Stupid and worse who wish harm and ill will on all of us who do want or need to fly and travel the world. Shame on them.

4/23/2008 8:33:23 AM UTC     

AirPlus International, the leading global business travel payment provider and Air China, the leading national flag carrier, have announced their strategic partnership by unveiling the Air China AirPlus Company Account. The solution provides the airline’s corporate clients with a new travel payment option on all national and international Air China flights and tariffs. The joint product is the first lodge account based payment solution in China and will be released in July 2008 prior to the Olympic Games. Furthermore, AirPlus has founded a subsidiary company in China - the AirPlus Payment Management Co. Ltd. based in Shanghai.

4/23/2008 8:25:51 AM UTC     

You might know that the Emirates Palace was and still is the most expensive hotel ever built; however, here are a few more interesting facts about Abu Dhabi’s iconic landmark…

1. Emirates Palace has a luxury car fleet of 23 cars including: 2 Maybachs 2 Rolls Royces, 15 BMWs, 
2. In the external architecture of the hotel there are over 114 impressive domes that rise up to 60m in the air and glisten in the sun, resembling pure gold.
3. 5kg of 24 carat edible gold is used every month on decorating Palace pastries and chocolates. This includes Delice du Palace, and 400 slices of this famous chocolate cake are consumed on average every day.
4. The most expensive thing that you can purchase at the Emirates Palace Hotel is "Robert Wan Tahiti Pearls" which are not available in this country. They are exclusive.
5. Emirates Palace boasts 1,002 Swarovski crystal chandeliers and 20,000 roses are used everyday to lavishly decorate the hotel.
6. There is a particularly valuable Cognac at the Havana Bar. It is called Hardy Perfection Air, it is over 140 years old, 100% French Colombard grape and only 300 bottles have ever been produced. One bottle costs £23,140 and one 4cl shot would put the buyer £1,321 out of pocket!
7. Sayad is the first restaurant in Abu Dhabi to introduce ‘Pacific Rim’ cuisine. This is a combination of food inspired by the techniques and flavours of the countries that make up Asia, and the other countries that border the Pacific Ocean.
8. "Gateway to Arabia" is the most popular spa treatment at the Anantara spa within Emirates Palace. It is an indulgent celebration of the Moroccan hammam, and costs around £175, lasting 3 hours and 15 minutes.
9. 35,000 square metres of 13 different types of marble have been used in building the hotel from all over the world.
10. The hotel treats guests to a vast array of little luxuries such as ‘bath caviar’ and Prada beauty products in all suites.

www.emiratespalace.com
  

4/23/2008 8:24:54 AM UTC     

Britons would rather be sunning themselves on the warm pink sands of Bermuda than anywhere else on earth on their dream holiday. The paradise island came out top in a poll carried out by Ciao Surveys. It found 23 per cent of respondents named lying on a beach in Bermuda as their idea of the perfect holiday of a lifetime, beating off competition from Thailand, Rio, and the Greek islands.

Shopping in New York was also a top contender and with a flight time of less than two hours from Bermuda to the hustle and bustle of the ‘Big Apple’, the island is the perfect twin-centre beach destination after a busy weekend pounding the pavements and bagging some bargains. 

Bermuda’s relaxed ambience is only a six and a half hour flight from the UK. Sand, sea and shopping! What more could any holidaymaker ever want. 

4/23/2008 8:22:25 AM UTC     

Britons would rather be sunning themselves on the warm pink sands of Bermuda than anywhere else on earth on their dream holiday. The paradise island came out top in a poll carried out by Ciao Surveys. It found 23 per cent of respondents named lying on a beach in Bermuda as their idea of the perfect holiday of a lifetime, beating off competition from Thailand, Rio, and the Greek islands.

Shopping in New York was also a top contender and with a flight time of less than two hours from Bermuda to the hustle and bustle of the ‘Big Apple’, the island is the perfect twin-centre beach destination after a busy weekend pounding the pavements and bagging some bargains. 

Bermuda’s relaxed ambience is only a six and a half hour flight from the UK. Sand, sea and shopping! What more could any holidaymaker ever want. 

4/23/2008 8:20:39 AM UTC     

Effective immediately, Sandals Resorts International (SRI), parent company of Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts and the Royal Plantation Collection, has introduced a new, value-oriented brand – Grand Pineapple Beach.

According to Adam Stewart, chief executive officer of SRI, Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts will offer a quality all-inclusive resort experience, a great beachfront location and tremendous value.  Two resorts, Grand Pineapple Beach Resort in Antigua and Negril Gardens in Jamaica, will be re-flagged to become Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua and Grand Pineapple Beach Negril, respectively.  Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts will welcome singles, couples, families and groups.  All-inclusive rates include accommodation; all meals and snacks; unlimited premium-brand beverages; non-motorized watersports and nightly entertainment.

“Our intention was to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests to affordably enjoy the best beaches in the Caribbean,” Stewart said. “It’s a slice of paradise regardless of budget.

“This concept has been in the works for the better part of two years.  We were careful and deliberate in creating the Grand Pineapple Beach experience – which above all is about quality.  Value may be the first reason customers book Grand Pineapple Beach, but they will come back for the great food, the sincere and warm welcome that the pineapple symbol has long represented and the outstanding experience that starts with a great beach.” 

www.sandals.co.uk

4/20/2008 7:05:07 AM UTC     

Sanctuary Villas & Apartments is offering special golfing packages to guests booking an upmarket villas in the Italian region of Umbria.

The package includes a complimentary three-day course pass to the recently re-opened Antognolla Golf Club for up to two guests, plus complimentary hire of one golf cart for three days.

These extras are offered with all bookings made at Sanctuary’s villa Il Fagiano, which sleeps up to eight, before the end of May 2008 for travel during mid- and low-season. This covers stays completed before 28th June 2008 and beginning after 29th August 2008.

For non-golfing guests, or golfers on their days off, the wider region offers plenty to keep guests occupied. The ancient heart of Perugia, known for its chocolate; Assisi with its awesome cathedrals; and Lake Trasimeno, a vast lake with water sports beach, are all within easy reach of the villa.

Low-season rentals at Il Fagiano start from £3,055 per week without flights.

www.sanctuary-villas.com

4/20/2008 6:52:24 AM UTC     

Flybe has completed the installation of 64 new self service electronic check-in kiosks at 13 regional airports across the UK, offering passengers the additional choice and most hassle-free method of check-in.

Initial indications have exceeded expectations with over 40% of Flybe’s customers already using electronic check-in.

Simon Lilley, Director of Marketing, Flybe comments: “We are committed to getting the millions of passengers we carry each year through the check in process as quickly and efficiently as possible. These machines minimise queuing and really do speed things up, allowing our passengers to better enjoy their travel experience with Flybe. We are pleased with the customer uptake, however are not surprised that such hassle free check-in channels are proving so popular. We will now be focusing on driving usage even higher, plus working on implementation of the next step which will see passengers checking-in by mobile phone. We will continue to flush out cost, whilst providing our passengers with a suite of affordable options to suit their needs”

The Flybe SelfServ™ kiosks are now available at Exeter, Guernsey, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, Newquay, Jersey, Leeds Bradford, Doncaster Sheffield Robin Hood, Norwich, Southampton, Cardiff and Isle of Man Ronaldsway.

www.flybe.com

4/20/2008 6:50:55 AM UTC     

The BA baggage fiasco at T5 following the opening of the new terminal would seem to be a drop in the ocean as it has been announced that over 42m bags were lost worldwide in 2007, an increase of 25% in two years, according to an industry report.

The lost bags - out of a total of 2.25bn checked in - cost the airline industry $3.8bn. Two years ago 30m bags were mishandled, costing the industry $2.5bn.

SITA (who produced the report) CEO Francesco Violante said: ‘Once again, the past year has seen an increase in the amount of baggage mishandled worldwide. It also brings fresh hope, however, in the shape of new initiatives such as IATA’s Baggage Improvement Programme.

‘It is important that we continue to move towards a comprehensive, fully-integrated global baggage management system that can direct, track and trace passenger baggage throughout the entire journey from check-in to final delivery at the destination.

'Radio frequency identification (RFID) also has a role to play and could save the industry as much as $700m if it was fully implemented across the industry.’

Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s director general and CEO, added: ‘We get baggage right 98% of the time. But with a total volume of over 2.2bn bags in the system, the 2% that is mishandled is a big problem that we need to fix.’

In 2007, the single largest cause of baggage delay was in transfer baggage mishandling (49%), but this has been falling steadily since 2005 when it was at 61%. Failure to load accounted for 16% of lost bags, arrival station mishandling accounted 8% and tagging errors accounted 5%.

4/20/2008 6:49:37 AM UTC     

Swiss and US Airways have concluded a new code share agreement that will offer both partners' customers an even wider selection of air destinations. Swiss travellers will be able to fly from Zurich to Philadelphia on US Airways-operated flights from April 26 onwards and US Airways customers will have onward connections from Zurich operated by Swiss to ten new European destinations.

As on all Star Alliance airlines, Miles & More members will be able to earn and redeem programme miles on these flights. "This new code share agreement enables us to further expand our attractive range of services to the USA for our customers," says Harry Hohmeister, Swiss Chief Network & Distribution Officer.

Swiss have also completed the programme to re-equip all 52 aircraft of their European fleet with new seats. As a result, passengers on all Swiss flights within Europe can now enjoy the greater legroom and seating comfort offered by the new high-quality seats.  

www.swiss.com/uk 

4/20/2008 6:46:23 AM UTC     

Virgin Atlantic is launching a second daily service to Washington Dulles International Airport, which will operate from 20 April to 25 October 2008. The new seasonal service will complement the airline’s existing daily Washington flight by offering passengers more choice and flexibility whether they are travelling to the Capital on business or taking advantage of the favourable dollar exchange rate in Washington’s hotels, restaurants and shopping malls.

The Airbus A340 aircraft is fitted with the award-winning Upper Class Suite – the longest bed in business class – and Virgin’s new Premium Economy cabin onboard, which has the largest in its class at 38”.

The new flight VS055 will depart from Heathrow at 17.30 and arrive in at Washington Dulles Airport at 20.55.

www.virginatlantic.com

4/20/2008 6:42:56 AM UTC     

On 24 April, Czech Airlines will connect Prague with Tbilisi in Georgia and Russia’s Rostov-on-Don, which lies in the south of the European part of the country. Czech Airlines will offer the Tbilisi flight three times a week and the flight to Rostov-on-Don initially once a week. Departure times will suit businessmen on their business travels from Western Europe to Georgia or the south of Russia.

www.czechairlines.co.uk

4/20/2008 6:41:29 AM UTC     

Marriott has opened a Courtyard property in Hong Kong. The 245 room hotel is on Hong Kong Island close to Macau Ferry Pier.

Also in Hong Kong Accor have opened the 389 room Novotel Nathan Road.

Anantara will open their 59 suite resort at Seminyak in Bali on April 26.

In Singapore the Grand Copthorne Waterfont Hotel is to start offering 24 one and two bedroom apartments for long stay guests.

The St. Regis Singapore has opened. It is their 13^th property worldwide and the third in Asia after Beijing and Shanghai.

The 467 room Swissôtel Grand in Shanghai, aimed at both business and leisure travellers, has opened in Shanghai's Jing'An district, just a few minutes' walk from Nanjing West Road with its many elegant shops and attractions.

4/20/2008 6:39:42 AM UTC     

The latest innovation in passenger jets is the one-man urinal, which is designed to take pressure off lengthy toilet queues.

According to reports, the new units, which could start appearing in commercial planes from next year, are more compact and use much less water than the full toilet alternative. Units are being made to fit the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 as well as many other common planes.

4/20/2008 6:38:45 AM UTC     

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