The five red star Chester Grosvenor and Spa, located in the heart of Chester, invites you to throw caution to the wind and enjoy a high octane life this summer with their exclusive driving experience packages.

The result of a partnership between luxury Chester business, Northern Ferrari Hire specialists in self-drive luxury car hire and Chester’s iconic city centre hotel, The Chester Grosvenor and Spa, there are five supercars to choose from; Ferrari 360 Spider; Aston Martin DB9; Maserati Gran Tourismo, Lamborghini Gallardo Roadster and Ferrari F430 Coupe.

The Exclusive Wheels weekend will include two nights at The Chester Grosvenor and Spa in a Deluxe room including Continental breakfast and dinner on one evening in the Michelin-starred ‘Simon Radley At The Grosvenor’ restaurant. The car of your choice will be available from noon on Friday until Sunday evening for you to explore the delights of Cheshire. (Prices from £929 per person.)

For a rather special midsummer treat, this exclusive package is available on 17-19th July, the weekend of The Cholmondeley Pageant of Power and Fireworks Concert, both held at Cholmondeley Castle, some 20 miles south of Chester.  Arrive in style at the events and turn a few heads! (Prices from £979 per person including Paddock tickets to the Pageant of Power on Saturday 18th July and tickets to the evening Fireworks Concert also at Cholmondeley Castle.)
 
Managing Director of The Chester Grosvenor and Spa, Mr Jonathan Slater, commented,‘Being a car enthusiast myself, I cannot imagine a better complement to our hotel than the keys to one of these stunning, powerful cars. Even in these tough times there are always occasions when one feels the urge to really splash out on a special weekend.’ 

www.chestergrosvenor.com

6/11/2009 4:50:16 PM UTC    Comments 

Singapore Airlines will fly the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380, on the Singapore-Hong Kong route from 9 July 2009. Hong Kong will be the fifth international destination and second Asian city which Singapore Airlines operates the superjumbo aircraft to. The Airline started operating the A380 in October 2007 to Sydney and subsequently added services to London, Tokyo and Paris.

"The operation of the A380 to Hong Kong shows our confidence in the demand for both business and leisure travel between Singapore and the famed ‘Pearl of the Orient’.  Hong Kong is a vibrant business hub and at the same time it has much to offer leisure travellers looking for great places to shop, eat and play,” said Mr. Huang Cheng Eng, Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice President, Marketing and the Regions.

Exclusively available on the A380 are the Singapore Airlines Suites. Each Suite customer enjoys a high level of privacy in his own cabin in the sky, behind sliding doors and adjustable roller blinds. The Suites come furnished with a luxurious and fully adjustable leather seat, upholstered by world-renowned Poltrona Frau, and a full-sized bed. For entertainment, customers can enjoy crystal-clear images on a sleek 23-inch high-resolution LCD monitor, mounted on the wall in each Suite.

The Singapore Airlines A380 Business Class is in a league of its own. Measuring 86 centimetres (34 inches) in width, the Business Class seat is one of the widest in the world and each has direct access to the aisle. Each seat can be converted into a comfortable wide bed, simply by folding down the seat back.  

Singapore Airlines’ new Economy Class seats offer customers unprecedented comfort and space. The ergonomically designed seat not only maximises knee and legroom, it also boasts intelligent features such as a non-intrusive reading light and height-adjustable leather headrests with side panels.

Customers across all three classes can enjoy a wide range of the latest movies, TV programmes and a library of CDs on KrisWorld, Singapore Airlines’ award-winning inflight entertainment system. Come mealtime, delectable inflight meals, designed exclusively by world-class chefs like Matt Moran from Australia, Zhu Jun from China and Sam Leong from Singapore, are served and presented on exclusive Givenchy-designed service ware.

Singapore Airlines currently has eight A380s in service, a further 11 on firm order, and options on six more. 

6/11/2009 4:16:11 PM UTC    Comments 

Lufthansa will relocate its Heathrow passenger operation to Terminal 1 on Tuesday 16th June 2009.

The recently refurbished Terminal will provide Lufthansa passengers with a bright and spacious environment as well as greatly enhanced facilities. The £100 million refurbishment has transformed the terminal into a more open, clean and simplified facility. The overall passenger experience will be greatly improved thanks to a new check-in area, baggage reclaim and arrivals concourse which result in shorter walking distances from kerbside to check-in and to the improved departure gate area.

Announcing the move to Terminal 1 Marianne Sammann, Lufthansa General Manager UK & Ireland, said, “I believe this move will further enhance the Lufthansa travel experience for our customers. Our refurbished, Star Alliance-branded check-in area in Zone K is light and airy offering 17 check-in desks, 12 check-in machines and six quick bag drops to help speed up the overall check-in process. After checking in, passengers are able to proceed directly through a bespoke security facility located directly behind the check-in area of Zone K.

“For First Class customers, HON Circle Members, Senators and Star Gold Card holders, there is an exclusive First Class lobby at one end of Zone K. As well as four First Class check in counters. A furnished waiting area is available and the lobby provides direct priority access to the fast track security control. Frequent Travellers, Star Silver Card holders and Business Class customers will also be able to use this fast track using an alternative route around the First Class lobby.

Terminal 1 will also become home to many of Lufthansa’s Star Alliance partners. Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, SWISS and TAP Portugal will move from Terminal 2 with Lufthansa in June. They join Air New Zealand, Asiana Airlines, bmi, Lot Polish Airlines, South African Airways, United Airlines and US Airways which already operate out of Terminal 1.

Once the moves are completed, the 22 Star Alliance member carriers serving Heathrow will be nearly evenly split between Terminals 1 and 3, the core Central Area at Heathrow - the only part of Heathrow that has direct access to both the Heathrow Express and the London Connect Service, all Underground trains to central London and local and regional bus services.

www.lufthansa.com

6/11/2009 4:08:14 PM UTC    Comments 

Save more than £200 on seven-night stays in Turkey 

Depart on 26 June 2009 for the Club Med Turkish resort of Beldi from only £749 per adult and £536 per child including flights a saving of up to £246 per adult and £123 per child.

Discover the treasures of Turkey at Club Med Beldi, a resort bathed in glorious sunshine with facilities to engage even the most preoccupied of visitors. The resort boasts excellent leisure activities including kayaking, sailing and archery, tennis and circus school. Beldi is the ideal place to indulge in both an active break and a cultural escape, with the old town of Antalya and the Roman theatre of Myra only hours away.

Alternatively, visit the Turkish resort of Kemer to experience cultural delights and brush up on your water sport skills. Fly on the 26 June 2009 and stay seven days from only £729 per adult including flights - a saving of up to £266.

An area sheltered by wild countryside and quite bays, Kemer Club Med Resort is ideal for those who want an action-packed escape. Boasting a plethora of water based activities including water skiing, wake boarding, wind surfing as well a Fitness Academy®, this is the perfect place to get in shape and have fun in the sun. This is a destination that caters perfectly for the young adult with a vibrant nightlife on its doorstep. Guests can savour the fantastic local cuisine offered at the Resort before heading out on the town with friends. This is an adult-only Resort.

Club Med’s generous holidays includes:

Return flights from London and transfers between the airport and resort
Accommodation in a Club room
All meals with wine, beer and soft drinks, open bar and snacks
A wide range of group classes and sports activities
 
www.clubmed.co.uk

6/11/2009 10:56:58 AM UTC    Comments 

Scandinavian Airlines System’s (SAS) Summer Sale kicks off 11 June - meaning great discounts on SAS flights from the UK to Scandinavia.  What’s more SAS offers child discounts – which makes a family holiday in Scandinavia an even more attractive proposition this summer.  Children qualify for a 25 per cent discount off all sale fares.

Example one way fares including taxes during the Summer Sale include:

• London Heathrow – Oslo from £61, saving £18 on the normal lowest fare
• Manchester - Oslo from £61 pounds, a saving of £36 on the normal lowest fare
• Birmingham – Copenhagen from £73, a saving of £10 on the normal lowest fare
• London – Stavanger from £61, a saving of £20 on the normal lowest fare

For a ten day period, ending 21 June, SAS fares will be discounted by up to 38% on a range of key routes.  These discounts apply for travel between 29 June and 31 August. 

SAS has a comprehensive network out of the UK into Scandinavia with direct flights from London Heathrow, Gatwick and London City, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Aberdeen to the Scandinavian capitals and beyond.

www.flysas.co.uk
 

6/11/2009 10:41:00 AM UTC    Comments 

Travel to the Far East in style and upgrade to premium economy for as little as £220 – saving up to 25 per cent off EVA Air’s premium economy Elite Class with the launch of exclusive online fares.
 
Return fares from London Heathrow to Bangkok start from just £706 and from £729 to Taipei including taxes. The standard starting price for a return airfare with EVA Air from London Heathrow to Bangkok in Elite Class usually costs from £890 and from £990 to Taipei including taxes.

Flights are on sale now until 15 July 2009 and are valid for travel until 9 December 2009 excluding the period 11 July – 27 August 2009. These fares are subject to availability and are only bookable online.

EVA Air’s award-winning Elite Class offers many of the comforts usually only associated with business class travel, at a fraction of the price. Forming just 20 per cent of the aircraft’s total seat capacity, the airline’s pioneering premium economy product gives passengers increased privacy during the flight.

Travellers benefit from a dedicated check-in desk and increased baggage allowance of 25kgs, as well as 18.5 inch wide ergonomically designed, memory foam seats with a generous 38-inch seat pitch.

EVA Air flies to Taipei via Bangkok six times a week from London Heathrow and offers passengers a choice of three classes of cabin service: Premium Laurel business class, Elite Class premium economy and Economy class.

www.evaair.com

6/10/2009 10:59:00 AM UTC    Comments 

Alila Villas Uluwatu, the first luxury all pool villa property in a new generation of Alila Hotels and Resorts properties is now open. Situated on an elevated plateau along the southern coastline of Bali, Alila Villas Uluwatu offers breathtaking views of dramatic limestone cliffs sweeping down to the Indian Ocean.

In celebration of its opening, Alila Villas Uluwatu has launched a Double Indulgence package, which will offer guests a complimentary night’s stay for every night booked at this luxurious resort. Guests staying between 1 June 2009 till 31 July 2009 will be able to enjoy this package, with a minimum two-night stay.

Designed by award-winning Singaporean architecture firm, WOHA, the property marries environmentally sustainable design properties with style. The property was designed and constructed in accordance with Green Globe standards. Awarded the prestigious Green Globe “Best Practice Building Planning and Design” certification, Alila Villas Uluwatu is the first resort in Bali to meet the program’s rigorous standards.

WOHA used the natural sloping terrain to the property’s advantage allowing each of Alila Villas Uluwatu’s villas to be individually tiered, providing guests with panoramic views of the ocean and the horizon, regardless of their villa’s location. This prestigious development offers 52 one-bedroom pool villas, 2 two-bedroom pool villas, 5 three-bedroom Cliffside pool villas and 25 private villas.

Besides the stunning natural landscape and architecture, Alila Villas Uluwatu will also provide each guest with a high level of personalized services and luxury options. From their arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport (a convenient 30 minute drive away), guests will be indulged and pampered. Each villa will have host (butler) service and guests can choose between three different levels of service from “private” to “indulgent”. Whichever service they choose, guests will have their every whim and fancy catered to.

A collection of special bespoke activities and experiences, known as “Journeys by Alila”, will bring the very best of Bali to the guests in the comfort of Alila Villas Uluwatu. Guests may select from a host of Journeys, from the spiritual to the adventurous. Each Journey will then be specially customized for specific guests, leaving them with unforgettable memories of their trip to Bali.

Sean Brennan, general manager for Alila Villas Uluwatu, says, “We are proud to launch this ultra-luxurious all-pool villa hotel residences property in Bali. With this, Alila Hotels and Resorts renews its commitment to the beautiful island of Bali.”

6/10/2009 10:39:44 AM UTC    Comments 

Nothing beats a glass of Pimm’s on a summer’s day. The very British beverage is almost as much a tradition as the cup of tea and nothing evokes the pleasures of an English summer as much as a chilled glass of Pimm’s. 

Head mixologist, Joel Lawrence, has created a special summer Pimm’s cocktail menu and has introduced a special offer to launch the St James’s “Club Pimm’s” for residents and non-residents alike. Anyone trying one of Joel’s summer Pimm’s creations at the stylish St James’s Hotel and Club bar from 6.00pm to 11.00pm on any night will get the second one free!

Guests can choose from the following six Pimm’s concoctions, all priced at only £9.50:

• Pimm’s Classic... enjoyed in the traditional fashion
• Scarlet Pimpernel... a class act inspired from the 18th century (Pimm’s, Triple Sec, Cranberry, Lime juice)
• English Passion Pimm’s... with a full burst of passion (Pimm’s, Zubrovka, passion fruit, sugar)
• Maximum Voltage Pimm’s... all that tradition blown way out of proportion (Pimm’s, Zubrovka, Cointreau)
• Wimbledon Pimm’s... is in season with Strawberries and Cream (Pimm’s, Gin, Strawberry syrup, cream)
• Pimmed out... just when you think that you can’t take anymore (Pimm’s Classic served in a Hurricane glass with ice and twice as much fruit and topped up with Champagne!)
                                                    
  For reservations, please call 020 7316 1614 / reservations@stjameshotelandclub.com

History of Pimm’s: It all began in a London oyster bar in the 1840’s, the owner, James Pimm, invented a secret mix of Gin, Herbs and Quinine and then served the brew as an aid to digestion. After the 2nd World War, Pimm’s as it is known today, extended their range with different spirits as bases for the new cups:No.2 – Scotch,
No.3 – Brandy (Wintertime) this one is still in production, No.4 – Rum, No.5 – Rye and No.6 Vodka

6/10/2009 10:25:14 AM UTC    Comments 

SkyTeam have announced that the first level of its co-branded alliance lounge in Terminal 4 at London Heathrow International Airport (LHR) opened on 04 June 2009. The two-level lounge occupies more than 1,600 square metres and offers space for more than 300 passengers. Eligible passengers travelling through Terminal 4 on Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Kenya Airways operated flights can enjoy access to the first level of the co-branded SkyTeam lounge. Other eligible passengers will gain access once additional SkyTeam member airlines begin operating from Terminal 4.

www.skyteam.com

6/8/2009 8:06:12 AM UTC    Comments 

Accor has announced the opening of two beachfront Mercure resorts on Southern Thailand Island - of Koh Samui – Mercure Samui Buri and Mercure Samui Fenix. Mercure Samui Buri Resort marks Accor’s first mid-scale hotel on the island. The hotel is situated on the secluded northern Maenam Beach. The location is perfect for couples on a honeymoon or those in need of a relaxing break. On the east of the island is Lamai Beach, the location of the new Mercure Samui Fenix. The hotel borders lush jungle and has access to isolated bays, small local villages and temples.

www.accor.com

6/8/2009 8:04:44 AM UTC    Comments 

An Oriental institution, The Mandarin opened in 1963 and occupies a fabulous location on the waterfront of Hong Kong Island. The recent US$150 million refurbishment has seen the property given a technological overhaul while the rooms have been expanded and a Mandarin Spa and fitness centre, housed across three floors, has also been added.

www.mandarinoriental.com

6/8/2009 7:52:29 AM UTC    Comments 

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has launched a new mobile website that allows guests to find and book hotel rooms through any web-enabled device. The service, called Hyatt Mobile, allows guests to make and change reservations and check in or out. Special offers, corporate and group rates and maps are also available. Mobile users who navigate to hyatt.com will be automatically directed to Hyatt’s mobile website. Members of Hyatt Gold Passport may view account details and receive special offers.

www.hyatt.com

6/8/2009 7:49:02 AM UTC    Comments 

Swiss International Air Lines will be one of the first of the first Star Alliance airlines to move to London Heathrow Terminal 1 on 11 June 2009.
 
The improved lounges and facilities along with the bright and spacious check-in area will offer customers extra comfort and convenience.   The check-in area has been designed to create a more organised and less congested environment, which in turn will lessen waiting time and stressful queuing.
 
In addition, SWISS HON Circle and Miles & More Senator members, as well as First and Business Class passengers can enjoy the designated First or Business class areas in the new Star Alliance CIP Lounge. Both areas will feature private seating, complimentary food and beverages as well as shower facilities and the latest in business technology including Wi-Fi Internet access. The BMI lounge also welcomes Miles & More Frequent Travellers.
 
Gregor Koncilja, Country Manager UK & Ireland for SWISS commented: “We are very much looking forward to moving to our new home and are pleased and proud to be one of the first Star Alliance airlines to do so.  We are confident that Terminal 1 with improved facilities and lounges will offer an increased comfort and better travel experience to our customers even before they step on board.”
 

6/5/2009 11:20:32 AM UTC    Comments 

Air New Zealand has announced that they will be reducing flights on the London-Hong Kong route from seven services a week to five services a week.  NZ38/39 flights scheduled to depart on Wednesdays will cease effective from 23 September and NZ38/39 flights on Mondays from 12 October. Services between Hong Kong and Auckland are unaffected.

Scott Carr, Air New Zealand General Manager, UK and Europe, said: “As everyone is well aware the airline industry is facing exceedingly tough times at the moment and regrettably, the Asia markets have been hit hardest. It is in this context that Air New Zealand has taken the decision to reduce flights on the London-Hong Kong route”

He continues, “These are not easy decisions for any airline but we are confident that this is the right action for our business at this point in time.  However while times are tough overall we firmly believe we are well placed to deal with the current environment to deliver a great flying experience for our customers”.

6/5/2009 9:06:47 AM UTC    Comments 

This August, Alila Villas Hadahaa will showcase new horizons and be the first luxury island to welcome guests in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Southern Maldives.

The opening of the resort heralds a truly unparalleled journey in island living and destination discovery… a celebration of life, culture, environment, romance, wellness and so much more. To commemorate our opening, Alila Villas Hadahaa is delighted to introduce its Year 2009 ‘Gift to Share’ Program to all guests by waiving accommodation charges for every second night!

Guests may in turn, share this Gift by donating an amount of their choice to support their preferred Maldivian community project as follows:

• Expanding the reference libraries in the local schools for Maldivian children
• Working with local artisans to re-introducing Maldivian traditional crafts into primary schools and share the knowledge of the past with Maldivian artists of the future
• Support community farming projects to provide the sustainable food supply for the islanders and enable them to develop a commercial enterprise in supplying upcoming resorts

Year 2009 ‘Gift to Share’ Program includes the following benefits : For every night paid at opening rates, Alila Villas Hadahaa will provide one night without accommodation charge as a gift for our guests to share in the local community causes,  guests will be invited to share this Gift and donating an amount of their choice in place of the room charge to support their preferred Maldivian community project, two complimentary Alila Experiences for stays of 7 nights or more, complimentary full breakfast in Relish Restaurant, complimentary Alila hospitalities and Villa amenities and an Alila welcome gift.

About Alila Villas Hadahaa
Alila Villas Hadahaa is an exciting new vacation option in the Indian Ocean. In one of the widest and deepest natural atolls in the world, it is the first designed and built Green Globe certified upscale hideaway in the Maldives that really does full justice to the unblemished Maldivian seascape. The resort embraces ecological, intellectual, intimate, cultural and luxurious living concepts that translate into Alila Journeys. 50 spacious, sun-bleached villas with alfresco timber decks overlooking stunning gardens and ocean views
comprising 14 Aqua Villas stilted over water and 36 Island Villas, many boasting their own private pools. Dine at Battuta’s, drink at Bell’s, dive in the unspoilt waters, or relish the solitude under the stars on magnificent display in the night skies.

www.alilahotels.com

6/5/2009 8:26:37 AM UTC    Comments 

Business Travel Market founder and event director Paul Robin met with London Mayor Boris Johnson at City Hall this week to discuss Business Travel Market, the new event for the European business travel industry taking place June 17th & 18th at ExCeL. Joining Boris and Paul were Emma Harris, from founding partner Eurostar and Shirley Marguerite from platinum sponsor Qatar Airways.

Mayor Boris Johnson said: ‘I am delighted that London is hosting Business Travel Market 2009. It will be an honour for the city to host this major forum.  I am encouraged Business Travel Market is hosting this event at ExCeL and presenting a strong positive message to the industry at this crucial time. A warm welcome will be extended to all delegates during their time in London.’

Paul Robin, event director & founder commented: ‘I am delighted that the Mayor’s office sees the significance of business travel and the importance of keeping the industry running efficiently at this time. The fact we are holding this pan-European event in London, solidifies the Capital as a great place to do business, and the Mayor recognised the economic benefits of our event.  We were pleased we could update Mayor Johnson on Business Travel Market, and having his support to bring this first year event to London is fantastic.’

www.businesstravelmarket.co.uk                                     

6/4/2009 8:53:27 AM UTC    Comments 

A new early morning year-round flight is being introduced by Eastern Airways from Southampton International Airport to Newcastle, offering greater convenience for south of England business travellers.

The independent business-focused airline, which recently announced new services from Southampton to Liverpool starting in July, will launch the 7am timing to Newcastle along with a new 4.05pm Southampton departure from 6 July 2009.  Flights will arrive in Newcastle at 8.20am and 5.25pm respectively.

The new weekday flight will be offered along with the existing 7.05pm weekday Southampton to Newcastle departure and will replace the current 9.20am 4.25pm services.  Also, flights to Southampton will leave Newcastle at 8.50am, 2pm and 5.30pm.    

“We’ve responded to business traveller requirements as it was evident there was a gap in the market for early morning departures from Southampton to Newcastle,” said Chris Holliday, Eastern Airways’ chief operating officer.  “Adjusting the timings allows our Southampton passengers to arrive in Newcastle city centre before 9am and helps maximise their time in the north east.” 

Eastern Airways will start its new three times a day weekday service from Southampton to Liverpool on 6 July 2009 and also flies to Leeds Bradford and Aberdeen from the Hampshire airport.

www.easternairways.com

6/4/2009 8:50:20 AM UTC    Comments 

bmi, announces the opening today of its new international lounge, bmi Number One Heathrow.  The flagship lounge has been conceived with customer comforts in mind and provides a stylish environment in which to work, relax, dine and refresh.

bmi Number One Heathrow is the perfect stop for bmi customers connecting to any of bmi’s international destinations where they can choose to relax, refresh or rehydrate between flights and enjoy some homely British comforts.

bmi has created a new series of partnerships for the opening of the lounge that showcase Britain’s finest.  Mark Hix, renowned and award-winning champion of British food is exclusively featuring his new line of salad dressings and ice creams on bmi’s midhaul Business Class menus and in bmi Number One Heathrow. The Hix branded ice-cream will be stocked in a freezer where bmi customers can help themselves to Hix’s generous pots of either ‘Credit Crunch’ (caramel and honeycomb chocolate), Rhubarb Crumble or Blueberry and Dorset Honey flavours. What better way to spend an idle hour waiting for your connecting flight than enjoying a sweet treat in the comfort of bmi’s flagship lounge.

bmi Number One Heathrow is open to bmi Business Class, Diamond Club (Gold and Silver) and Star Alliance Gold customers travelling to bmi international destinations. Located above Gate 5 in Terminal 1, bmi Number One Heathrow has a unique layout.  It does not feature a reception desk – instead customers are welcomed inside by members of the Lounge Team.  The space is divided into informal zones that cater to the varying needs of the international traveller – the emphasis being on providing a sense of comfort and familiarity. 

Customers are welcomed in to bmi Number One Heathrow where style and comfort are paramount.  A range of different chair designs allow travellers to rest, work or even nap in daybeds.  Great views over the runway add to the experience. The Study offers a work oriented environment with desk seating as well as a boardroom-style table and free Wi-Fi is available.

The Café is centred around a stunning custom-made black Aga where steaming hot soup is available all day as well as a range of delicious food around the clock. From 1 July bmi will be launching their new dining-on-the-ground service for their evening flights where customers can choose to enjoy a tasty evening meal in bmi Number One Heathrow enabling them to relax and sleep once on board.

An informal, but sophisticated British pub environment  is created in The Local where customers can unwind around a welcoming leather-buttoned horseshoe shaped bar and enjoy a choice of branded beverages including Fullers London Pride ale and English rosé wine in keeping with the strong British theme. 

The new international lounge is the latest in a series of innovations from bmi. The airline recently launched its new Chauffeur Drive and Premium Check-in area at London Heathrow’s Terminal 1 to provide a fast and hassle free check-in service for Business Class and Premium Economy customers as well as bmi Diamond Club Gold and Silver card holders.

6/1/2009 1:16:49 PM UTC    Comments 

The new and highly anticipated Kempinski Hotel Aqaba, Red Sea Jordan, has finally opened today! Boasting 201 luxury rooms and suites all with sea views, a variety of international cuisine, world class MICE facilities and a stunning spa with a number of innovative signature treatments on the menu, this hotel opening marks the 3rd Kempinski property on the golden shores and azure waters of the Red Sea!

The Kempinski group has been specialist hoteliers for over 100 years and this hotel is yet another example of their expertise in luxury. Aqaba offers year round sunshine and some of the best diving and coral reefs in the world. The contrast in scenery makes this city one of the most beautiful in Jordan with its mountainous backdrop and white sandy beaches fringed with palm trees.

Located on the sandy shores of the Red Sea, it is an ideal location for those who simply want to switch off and relax. There is however, plenty to do for the more energetic; the hotel is only a stones throw away from a variety of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities, not to mention the hotel’s own entertainment, including; trips on private yachts, windsurfing, kayaking, diving, snorkelling and swimming, a private beach, the Kids Club and most important of all guests can enjoy an array of organised tours to popular tourist attractions, such as Petra, Wadi Rum and the Bedouin Camps.

All 201 rooms and suites within the hotel enjoy a sea view, which has been made possible due to clever design work and the curved contemporary building, shaped in the form of a tear-drop. The distinctive prevailing structure and spectacular interior design is complemented throughout with state of the art technology.

General Manager, Alejandro Bernabe, has said of the launch, “this hotel opening is one of Kempinski’s most exciting. When one thinks of Jordan both the Dead Sea and the Red Sea come to mind as two of Jordan’s top attractions, which is why the Kempinski Hotel Aqaba will complement our Amman and Dead Sea hotels perfectly, allowing guests the chance to enjoy the very best of Jordan in the country’s finest hotels and resorts.”

Cox & Kings has seven nights from £1,225 per person, including six nights at the Kempinski Aqaba, one night at the Kempinski Amman, international flights with Royal Jordanian Airlines, domestic flights, private transfers and breakfast.

www.coxandkings.co.uk

6/1/2009 12:16:29 PM UTC    Comments 

This month Virgin Atlantic celebrates 20 years of flying to Tokyo, they first launched flights between London and Tokyo in May 1989 and has since carried nearly 3m passengers on the popular route. Originally departing from Gatwick, the service moved to Heathrow in 1991.

Steve Ridgway, Chief Executive of Virgin Atlantic said: “To be celebrating 20 years of flying to Tokyo is a real achievement for Virgin Atlantic and we are proud to have been offering passengers our excellent service on this route since 1989. “Twenty years on Tokyo still remains a very popular business and holiday destination, with an increasing number of passengers taking city breaks to the region for its diverse culture, great food and stunning city-life.
All of us at Virgin Atlantic thank the people of Tokyo for supporting us over the last 20 years and we are pleased to play such a key role in the Japanese Community.”

Red hot fares are available on this route. Return Economy fares start from £620, Premium Economy fares start from £1098 and Upper Class fares start from £2686. All these fares include taxes and charges. These fares to Tokyo are available from 1st May to 21st July and 26th August to 13th December.

6/1/2009 10:12:39 AM UTC    Comments 

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) today announced Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express as the ‘Official Hotel Services Provider to London 2012’ and a Tier Three commercial partner.

Holiday Inn, part of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), will provide LOCOG with additional capability and expertise in the accommodation sector, supplying experienced personnel to assist in the planning and operation of the Athletes’ Village.

Currently undergoing a £600 million global relaunch, Holiday Inn will supply team members to work with LOCOG’s Accommodation and Protocol teams in the lead up to the Games in 2012. 

Holiday Inn, along with other hotels in the IHG stable, will also provide accommodation and meeting rooms for LOCOG and its partners’ as it builds towards the Games. 

London 2012 Chairman Lord Sebastian Coe commented: “Providing a smooth customer experience for athletes, spectators and dignitaries throughout their time at the Games can be a key challenge for any Organising Committee. For us to have Holiday Inn join our family provides us with another great pool of knowledge and skills to ensure that all of those attending the Games, whether from within the UK or from abroad, as competitors or spectators, will have an enjoyable and memorable experience. The global expertise of Holiday Inn in welcoming visitors and meeting customer needs will be vital between now and 2012.”

Andy Cosslett, CEO, IHG said: “With the £600 million relaunch of Holiday Inn well underway, being selected to welcome guests from LOCOG and its partner organisations to our hotels is perfect timing.  Just like the world class sportsmen and women who will stay in the Athletes Village, we’ll bring our own world class team to Stratford to make life as easy as possible for the athletes so they focus on the task in hand – competing and winning medals.”

6/1/2009 10:11:54 AM UTC    Comments 

Singapore Airlines commenced daily Airbus A330-300 services between Singapore and Nagoya, Japan, with effect from today. The daily services replace the Airline’s five times weekly Boeing B777 operations on the route. The inaugural A330-300 flight to Nagoya took off from Singapore’s Changi Airport at 0100 hrs this morning, arriving at Central Japan International Airport at 0830hrs (all times local). The arrival of the aircraft into Nagoya coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Airline’s operation of services into the city.

Nagoya is the first Japanese city to receive Singapore Airlines’ A330-300 aircraft. Osaka will be the second when the Airline replaces its daily B777 services to Osaka with A330-300 services in early 2010.
 
Said Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice-President Operations and Services, Mr Mak Swee Wah: “We are delighted to commence A330-300 services into Nagoya. We are confident that our Japanese customers will be happy with our latest product offerings, specially designed for regional and medium-haul routes. It also reaffirms our commitment to constantly enhance our product offerings to provide our customers the very best travel experience.”

6/1/2009 8:18:28 AM UTC    Comments 

With the recession still looming over us, there is no better time to consider the all-inclusive option to make that dream holiday still possible. Whether you are in the mood for complete relaxation, want to spend your holiday lying on the beach or are looking for the ultimate in choice and service, four of Beachcomber Hotels’ eight Mauritian properties are offering a variety of fantastic packages to cater for all tastes within a fair budget.

The concept behind all-inclusive holidays at Beachcomber Hotels is not just about the choice and quality of the food and beverages; it also covers a range of exclusive items such as snacks throughout the day, unlimited drinks or land and water sports. This is perhaps why the demand for all-inclusive holidays in Mauritius is growing so steadily! An obvious choice for families, all-inclusive packages are equally great for couples wanting to get away from it all or for friends travelling in a party.

Unlike many hotels offering all-inclusive packages, Beachcomber Hotels allows for a fantastic range of choice. The beautiful Shandrani Resort & Spa offers a particularly impressive collection of options within the ‘Serenity Plus’ all-inclusive package. This is the very first fully inclusive luxury resort in Mauritius and each guest can take advantage of the following inclusions:

A choice of five restaurants, four a la carte at Le Sirius, Porto Vecchio, Le Boucanier, Teak Elephant and buffets at Le Grand Port
Unlimited champagne, beer, wine and soft drinks
Complimentary mini-bar
Beach, pool and room service (tray charge for room service only applies)
One complimentary 45-minute massage
All water-sports, including water-skiing and glass-bottom boat
All land-sports
Access to Fitness Centre
Bob Marlin Kids Club for children aged 3 to 12
Nightly entertainment
Taxes

Beachcomber Tours offer 7 nights at Shandrani Resort & Spa from £1,649 per person. This price includes accommodation in a Superior Room on the Serenity Plus basis, shared transfers and flights with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow.

Le Victoria Hotel is one of the most popular family resorts on the island, also offering Beachcomber’s All-Inclusive Package at an optional supplement of just £26 per adult and £13 per child per day; covering the cost of all meals and drinks as well as value-added items as outlined below, making holidaying at this resort all the more simple and relaxing. Guests may also enjoy facilities at Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia Hotels:

All meals, with at a choice of three restaurants with a choice of menu, ‘A la Carte’ or international buffets
Unlimited selected wines and drinks during lunch and dinner and at the Corail Bleu Bar
Sandwiches from 12pm to 5.30pm
Pastries from 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Pool and beach service
Picnic basket
Complimentary mini-bar and in-room tea and coffee
Wide choice of land and water sports
Access to Fitness Centre, sauna and hammam
Mini-club for children aged 3 to 12
Taxes
 
Beachcomber Tours offer 7 nights at Le Victoria from £1,499 per person. This price includes accommodation in a Superior Room on an All-Inclusive basis, shared transfers and flights with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow.

Sister resorts Le Canonnier Hotel and Le Mauricia Hotel in the north of Mauritius and close to Grand Baie, also provide the perfect all-inclusive option for guests wishing to get their money’s worth at £20 per adult and £12 per child per day. Guests of either resort can enjoy facilities at both – so double the fun at no extra cost!
 
Beachcomber Tours offer 7 nights at Le Canonnier from £1,369 per person. This price includes accommodation in a Standard Garden Facing Room on an All-Inclusive basis, shared transfers and flights with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow.

All prices are based on June 2009 departures including the Late Booking offer, which is 15% off all stays at any of the aforementioned resorts from 1 June to 30 September 2009.

www.beachcombertours.co.uk  

5/29/2009 12:19:33 PM UTC    Comments 

Aer Arann has launched its summer schedule which will see the return of the airline’s routes to La Rochelle, Nantes and Lorient in France from Cork beginning on May 30th. The airline will also be re-introducing its flights to Jersey and Southampton from Cork on the day. Flights to Lorient in the beautiful Brittany region of France will also be available from Galway and Waterford airports. 

Fares to France from €60 and to Jersey and Southampton from €49, all one way including taxes. 

Commenting on the summer schedule Andrew Kelly, Aer Arann’s Director of Corporate Affairs said “Our summer routes proved very successful in 2008 so we are delighted to be offering them to customers once again this year. The accessibility of Cork airport combined with our own convenient, pleasant service makes these destinations an ideal choice for people who want a holiday without the hassle”.

www.aerarann.com

5/29/2009 8:36:48 AM UTC    Comments 

With the goings on in the UK Parliament the decision to increase Air Passenger Duty (APD) has managed to slip by without too many complaints. This despite the fact that APD could be catastrophic for the UK’s travel industry with its value set to rise by up to 122% in 2010. This for a pure stealth tax that brings no benefit to transportation infrastructure or environmental projects.

From November the tax paid on flights departing the UK will fall into 4 bands, with passengers charged according to how far they fly and where the capital is located. For the US the APD will be £60 per passenger in economy from November 2010 (£120 in a premium cabin, including Premium Economy), regardless of if you are flying to New York or LA. For the Caribbean, South Africa, India, Mexico and Brazil the 2010 rates will be £75 (£150 in a premium cabin), while in the top band, which includes the likes of Australia, Argentina, Malaysia and Singapore, the rate will be £85 (£170 in premium).

For a family of four flying from the UK to Australia in Premium Economy that means a tax bill of £680. Ironically the decision was made at the time when the Dutch government has zero rated APD. Smart travellers living in the UK will, therefore, fly to Schiphol, paying the £12 short haul tax and then pick up their long haul ticket from a Dutch operator for a saving of  £632. The losers will be UK tour operators and the likes of British Airways, bmi and Virgin. It will also make it less appealing for foreign long haul carriers to fly direct to the UK.

customs.hmrc.gov.uk

5/26/2009 7:40:03 AM UTC    Comments