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                                                Travel News Briefs

 

Zagat Releases America's Top Golf Courses Guide
With The Masters Tournament right around the corner, Zagat Survey today released its 2007/08 Guide to America's Top Golf Courses, covering 1,075 courses in the U.S., Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. The results reveal a nation full of opportunities for those of us unlikely to ever play Georgia's esteemed Augusta National course. Based on the experiences of over 6,250 avid golfers who played 560,000 rounds of golf in the last twelve months, on average, each course in the guide was visited by at least one surveyor every day of the year. "The 6,250 savvy, avid golfers who participated in this survey make one thing very clear," said Tim Zagat, CEO of Zagat Survey. "You don't have to be in the PGA or play professionally to enjoy access to a lifetime's worth of high-quality links, challenging courses and incredible natural beauty."
This year's winners include: Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes (OR), which edged out Whistling Straits, Straits (WI) by a stroke to win Best Course honors. Filling out the list of Top Ten courses in order, are:
Bandon Dunes, B.D.C., Coos Bay, OR  
Kiawah Island, Ocean, Charleston, SC
Arcadia Bluffs, Traverse City, MI 
Pebble Beach, Monterey Peninsula, CA
 Bethpage, Black, Long Island, NY   
 Kapalua, Plantation, Maui, HI
 Cascata, Las Vegas, NV*
Shadow Creek, Las Vegas, NV
The top newcomers this year are Lake of Isles, North (CT) and Ross Bridge (AL). And the gorgeous Pebble Beach (CA) once again ranks as the guide's Most Popular course.
Other awards go to: Greenbrier (WV) which won in both the Top Service and Top Facilities categories; Willingers (MN) as Best Budget Course ($50 and under); and, perhaps since it's located in Las Vegas, surveyors agreed that Cascata (NV) offers the Best 19th Hole around. More winners, by special feature, include:
Accommodations:                  Whistling Straits, Kohler, WI
Conditioning/Scenic:             Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Coos Bay, OR
Environmentally Friendly:      Bethpage, Long Island, NY
Expense Account ($200+):     Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Coos Bay, OR
Fine Food Too:                       Bandon Dunes, Coos Bay, OR Instruction/    Practice Facilities:   Kiawah Island, Charleston, SC
Women-Friendly:                  Pebble Beach, Monterey Peninsula, CA
In addition to ratings and reviews of the best public, semi-private and resort layouts, the new guide includes listings of urban driving ranges and 100 private courses. The guide also includes travel tips and a variety of revealing statistics about America's golfers and golf courses.
The 2007/08 America's Top Golf Courses guide ($15.95) is available at bookstores and other retail outlets, through www.ZAGAT.com  or by calling 888/371-5440.

Torino and Piemonte, Italy Offer Devotional Itineraries
From the Vatican City to the ancient Roman Coliseum, Italy is rich with sites of historical and religious significance. Torino and Piemonte, situated in northwestern Italy, are no different, offering several sites and itineraries that may be new to visitors from North America. International interest in "devotional tourism" has grown so much that Regione Piemonte is holding a second biennial Market for Devotional and Cultural Itineraries at Sanctuary and Sacro Monte of Oropa from June 21 - 24, 2007. "Devotional tourism" sites appeal to different audiences in different ways. For the faithful, visiting such sites represent a highly personal and spiritual sense of fulfillment. For those seeking education, these sites represent special touchstones to the histories of centuries past. And for those merely site seeing, these are attractions that provide unique and artistic experiences of the region.
Many North Americans have heard of the Holy Shroud of Turin, but these devotional itineraries include much more. For example:
The "Sacri Monti (Sacred Mountains) of Piemonte and Lombardia" was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. The nine Sacred Mountains of northern Italy are groups of chapels and other architectural features created in the late 16th and 17th centuries and dedicated to different aspects of the Christian faith. In addition to their symbolic spiritual meaning, they are of great beauty by virtue of the skill with which they have been integrated into the surrounding natural landscape of hills, forests and lakes. They also house much important artistic material in the form of wall paintings and statuary.
The Sacra di San Michele, perched on top of Mt. Pirchiriano and clearly visible from nearby Avigliana, was founded prior to the year 1000 by Ugo di Montboisser. The abbey dominates the narrow entrance to the Susa Valley ("la chiusa" or gateway) and was one of the busiest Benedictine centers in the Piemonte Region for centuries. The best way to fully appreciate its majesty is to walk up along the old mule-track from Sant'Ambrogio.
The "Abbazia di Staffarda" (Abbey of Staffarda), was founded between 1135 and 1138 by the Cistercian monks, and further developed throughout the 13th century. The church itself was built between 1150 and 1210.
The Novalesa Abbeys, situated at the foot of Moncenisio, is a Benedictine abbey founded in year 726 along a pilgrimage route. The Abbeys became one of the most important cultural centers of the medieval era. Today there is a church, convent and four chapels that can be toured.
For more information about "Market for Devotional and Cultural Itineraries," visit www.borsaoropa.it.
Regione Piemonte is located in northwest Italy, sharing alpine peaks with neighboring France and Switzerland. The Po River, Italy's largest, crosses through the region, with capital city, Torino (Turin) in the valley. After being the capital of the Savoy reign for 300 years, in 1861 Turin became the first Italian capital. In February 2006, the city hosted the Winter Olympic Games. Torino and Piemonte offer superlative Italian experiences of winter sports, culture and history, food and wine, and much more.
For more information, visit www.torinopiemonte.com and www.seeyouinpiemonte.com.

58th Edition of Keukenhof International Flower Exhibition Opens
Swedish Crown Princess Victoria has officially opened the 58th edition of Keukenhof by opening the Herbarium Amoris Exhibition, showing work and life of the famous Swedish scientist Carl Linnaeus in pictures, taken by the Swedish photographer Edvard Koinberg in March. The largest international flower show in the world expects to welcome approx.750,000 guest from all over the globe during the 2007 season, which runs through May 20. Four pavilions host some 16 special shows, in particular in the Oranje Nassau Pavillion. Most of the time these shows are linked to specific product groups and themes.
Keukenhof Gardens is located in Lisse, the Netherlands. Website: www.keukenhof.nl

Celebrate America's 400th Birthday In Norfolk, Virginia This Spring
Since its March opening, Norfolk, Virginia blossoms with more than 65 public events showcasing the region's exquisite culture, history and food. This year also marks the 400th anniversary of Jamestown, America's first permanent English settlement, which will be celebrated through special events, such as Sail Virginia 2007.
Here’s a sample of Spring events:
* Norfolk's International Azalea Festival—April 15 - 21, 2007
  This festival celebrates the Norfolk-based North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), by selecting one nation each year to honor. This year, the festival will host a special tribute to the United Kingdom. For more information, call (757) 282-2801 or visit www.azaleafestival.org .
* Virginia International Tattoo—April 16 - 22, 2007
The Virginia International Tattoo is a ceremonial military showcase, featuring 850 performers from nine countries, is the largest tattoo ever presented in the U.S. and will offer five free previews at Norfolk's MacArthur Center (April 16-20) as well as three full performances at the city's Scope Arena (April 20-22). For more information, call (757) 282- 2800 or visit www.virginiaartsfest.com.
* Birmingham Royal Ballet—May 4 - 6, 2007
The Birmingham Royal Ballet will make its only North American appearance of 2007 in Norfolk, performing The Sleeping Beauty. Britain's leading classical ballet touring company will be at Chrysler Hall for four special performances with the Virginia Symphony. For more information, call (757) 282-2800 or visit www.virginiaartsfest.com
* "Pocahontas"—May 19, 2007
Pocahontas is a world premiere family opera, specially commissioned to mark America's 400th anniversary. For more information, call (757) 282-2800 or visit www.virginiaartsfest.com.
* Sail Virginia 2007—June 7 - 12, 2007
A keystone event of military, maritime and cultural activities, Sail Virginia 2007 was created in recognition of the 400th anniversary of the landing at Jamestown.  More than 50 tall ships from 18 different countries will arrive at Norfolk's waterfront. For more information, call (757) 441-2345 or visit www.sailvirginia2007.com.
Home to the largest Naval base in the world, Norfolk pays homage to its affinity for its waterfront location by showcasing a walkable downtown district that offers eclectic dining options, a burgeoning arts scene, high-end shopping, and year-round special events. For more information, visit the Norfolk Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.norfolkcvb.com or call toll free at 800-368-3097.

St. Lucia To Host Musical Extravaganza
St. Lucia is mounting a star-studded three-day Caribbean musical extravaganza, featuring the Caribbean's top calypso, soca and reggae musicians, from April 23 to 25, 2007.
Starting Monday, April 23 at the recently unveiled Digicel Coco Cabana in Rodney Bay, the Rodney Bay Village Music Bash opens with Trinidad and Tobago's David Rudder, one of the Caribbean's most prolific singers and songwriters ever, along with Jamaican Beres Hammond, reggae music's master of lovers' rock. The following day, Tuesday, April 24, visitors and locals alike will dance to the rhythms of Sean Paul, the Jamaican Grammy-winning ambassador of dancehall reggae, who will share the stage with Trinidadian Queen of Soca Destra, known for her high energy performances and vocal skills.
The concert series closes on Wednesday, April 25 with Grammy winner Shaggy, and Grammy nominee Maxi Priest, the internationally celebrated lovers' rock singer.
Tickets are US$40 per show for any tickets purchased before April 20 (limit of two per person). Thereafter, the cost is US$60 per show.
Tickets are available at Coco Resorts, Sunshine Bookstore, DJ Outlets, Styles 2000 Plus, GameHunter, Digicel stores and Anthony Jewelers.

Colonial Williamsburg Offers New Scenes, New Stories and New Events
Colonial Williamsburg of the highly-acclaimed outdoor dramatic presentation, Revolutionary City, opened Season Two March 19 with new scenes, stories and events in the Historic Area for ticketed guests. New program additions to the Revolutionary City experience include Nation Builders, Revolutionary Stories and Revolutionary City After Dark. In addition, new scenes will appear in the engaging and interactive two-hour drama, Revolutionary City, that allows guests to follow their Revolutionary forebears' transition from subjects to citizens and to make connections those Revolutionary changes and the issues facing citizens today.
"Nation Builders," presented every Monday beginning March 19, explores the lives of America's founders -- not just the well-known such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry, but also the little-known citizens and individuals who quietly built a new nation as they went about their daily lives. As the founders reflect on the American Revolution and the future of the new republic, Martha Washington visits the war-torn capital, and the Marquis de Lafayette recounts his military experiences here. Slaves, such as Lydia Broadnax and Eve Randolph, consider their plight in light of the Declaration of Independence, while a former slave, Gowan Pamphlet, communicates his vision for the Baptist Church he now pastors as the shadow of slavery puts his congregation at risk.
The two-hour dramatic presentation, Revolutionary City, is presented 2:30 -- 4:30 p.m. Tuesday -- Sunday in the Historic Area near the Capitol. "Revolutionary Stories," a new program with presentations staged at the Governor's Palace, complements the day's Revolutionary City episode.
Guests experience the Collapse of Royal Government in the Revolutionary City as colonial outrage turned loyal subjects against their king and sparked revolutionary ideas that divided loyalties -- even within families -- and compelled Williamsburg residents to choose between monarchy and self- government. Collapse of Royal Government is presented Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays while Revolutionary Stories explore the challenges facing Royal Governor Dunmore and Lady Dunmore's preparations to meet the colony's leading families.
Rumors of war crimes headline Citizens At War—the second episode of Revolutionary City. With independence declared, but far from achieved, residents of war-torn Williamsburg faced a new set of concerns. Slaves considered the uncertain promise of freedom if they would flee their patriot masters and join the British. Citizens strive to survive the ravages of war and a British occupation of their city, and then finally celebrate General Washington's advance on nearby Yorktown. "Citizens At War" is presented Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. "Revolutionary Stories" presentations bring guests into the 1776 discussion of Virginia's Declaration of Rights and a new constitution for the Commonwealth while Patrick Henry relates his vision for Virginia as its first elected governor.
As the sun sets, the evening presents new opportunities for guests to continue the Revolutionary activities. Beginning in April, Revolutionary City After Dark presents The Gunpowder Plot, an opportunity for guests to explore the royal governor's secret plan to leave the colony defenseless and the angry response to his action, and A Capitol Ball—an evening of music, dance and revelry celebrating of the arrival of Lady Dunmore set against a backdrop of political intrigue. Revolutionary City After Dark events require a separate ticket.
Established in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is the not-for- profit educational institution that preserves and operates the restored 18th- century Revolutionary capital of Virginia as a town-sized living history museum, telling the inspirational stories of our nation's founding men and women. Within the restored and reconstructed buildings, historic interpreters, attired as colonial men and women from slaves to shopkeepers to soldiers, relate stories of colonial Virginia society and culture -- stories of our journey to become Americans. As Colonial Williamsburg interprets life in the time of the American Revolution for its guests, it also invites them to interact with history. Williamsburg is located 150 miles south of Washington, D.C., off Interstate 64. For more information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-HISTORY or visit Colonial Williamsburg at http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.

Washington’s Home In Barbados Reopens To The Public
Travelers visiting Barbados with a penchant for history and culture will be delighted to learn that the restoration project of George Washington House is complete and the historical house is now open to the public. Long known as the house where President George Washington stayed during his only visit outside of the U.S., the historical house now has a completely renovated landscape and new furnishings in place. The George Washington House is open for private functions and tours.
The George Washington house is much more than the place where the revolutionary war hero slept. A restored Georgian-style house that is furnished as a typical plantation residence, the house gives visitors a unique insight into 18th and 19th century of Barbadian life. The house also offers a museum that focuses on the rich cultural heritage of Barbados as well as a gift shop and cafe in the newly restored 18th century stables. There is a new outdoor performance stage to accommodate evening events and a beautifully landscaped wedding arbour, perfect for a memorable outdoor wedding reception.
The first American President visited the Caribbean island with his older half-brother and guardian, Lawrence, for seven weeks in 1751, recording his favorable impression in his diary. For more information, please visit: www.georgewashingtonbarbados.org. For further information on Barbados, call the Barbados Tourism Authority at 800-221-9831, or log onto www.visitbarbados.org.

New Virtual Travel Guide To Vancouver Now Available
The latest in innovative travel guides for visitors to Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region is now available. The Virtual Travel Guide enables visitors to customize, personalize and create a travel handbook designed specifically for their own interests and vacation needs. The guide is available for viewing online at  http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/vcm/travelguide07/index.php.
Flipping through the digital pages, the Virtual Travel Guide allows readers to click on links directly related to the places they would like to visit. Readers are able to bookmark pages, add notes, and send the guide or portions of the guide to friends and family, thereby personalizing their very own travel manual.
The guide is created with the technology of NXTbook Media™, a digital publishing service who optimizes print materials for use on the Web. The user-friendly format, and interactive page turner, is perfect for tour operators and travel agents to forward to clients, in addition to travel journalists and vacationing visitors who may be writing about or just enjoying a holiday in the region.
Vancouver, Coast & Mountains, one of six tourism regions of Super, Natural British Columbia, includes four destination areas: Greater Vancouver, Sea to Sky Country, Mighty Fraser Country, and the Sunshine Coast. Visit www.vcmbc.com  for more information about Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism.

Cool New Catamaran Service Available In Key West
Key West and Miami, Florida, are considered some of the most popular travel destinations in the United States but getting between the two has always been an arduous challenge down the Flager Highway with one lane traffic in either direction. Now Key West Express is offering comfortable and convenient high-speed jet-propelled catamaran service that makes for a smooth trip in just under four hours. With 7,200 horsepower, the Big Cat Express is one of the fastest, jet-powered ferries operating in Florida, with the passenger comforts that include contoured seats with headrests and plush couches with tables.

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Air Travel News & Offers

                                                                                    New Air Connections

Airbus 380 superjumbo jet takes off from New York/JFK Airport March 21
The 555-passenger, double-deck Airbus A380 created a stir across the U.S. this week, starting with Monday's dual landing at LAX and JFK airports. The planes were in the U.S. for the first time for a series of route-proving exercises. First delivery of the A380 is slated for October 2007 to Singapore Airlines.

DOT Approves Aer Lingus Request For More U.S. Service
Aer Lingus has received US Dept of Transportation approval to begin new service from Dublin and Shannon, Ireland, to Washington (Dulles) beginning September 3 and to Orlando and San Francisco beginning the week of October 28 -- providing the first benefit from the U.S.-E.U. open skies agreement even before it is implemented next March.

Frontier Airlines' Cabins Go Cashless
Frontier Airlines is excited to announce its transition to Cashless Cabins on its mainline aircraft beginning April 1, 2007. In-flight products, namely DIRECTV, pay-per-view movies and alcoholic beverages, are now exclusively available for purchase using credit or debit cards instead of cash. The new service will eliminate the need for correct change and is expected to expedite the in-flight service process.

DOT Revokes IATA’s Antitrust Exemption for Transatlantic and U.S.-Australia Fare and Rate Coordination.
In an effort to enhance competition and provide lower fares for consumers flying internationally, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced that it will withdraw antitrust immunity from meetings held by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that discuss and set passenger fares and cargo rates for U.S.-Europe and U.S.-Australia flights. The decision made in March will take effect on June 30, 2007, making final an action that was proposed on July 5, 2006. In its final order, the Department concluded that changes in international aviation services, such as the growth of international airline alliances, have made the pricing conferences unnecessary. The Department also noted that European Union (EU) and Australian competition authorities have decided to end or reduce the IATA conferences’ immunity from their own competition laws. The Department’s order, public comment and other documents in the case are available on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov , docket OST-2006-25307.
The Air Transport Association (ATA), the trade association for the leading U.S. airlines, upon learning of DOT’s decision stated: "This Open Skies agreement paves the way for much-desired increased service between the United States and Europe. It has the potential to provide enormous benefits to our respective customers and economies," said ATA President and CEO James C. May. "We appreciate the diligence and commitment of the representatives from the European Commission and U.S. government who negotiated this landmark agreement."  (ATA members transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic.).
The Association of European Airlines, AEA, welcomed the announcement with reservations that the Council of Transport Ministers has approved a comprehensive air service agreement between the EU and the US. AEA Secretary  General Ulrich Schulte-Strathaus stated “This is good news for passengers. European airlines will compete for all passengers traveling between any airport in the European Union to any destination in the United States. It is also good news for communities in Europe as airlines seek to serve new regions at attractive prices.”
The immediate commercial advantages of this agreement for airlines are difficult to assess at this stage, according to AEA. “This is a step in the right direction,” commented Schulte-Strathaus. “The agreement establishes a framework which includes, but goes beyond market opportunities. A Joint EU/US Committee will be created to harmonize standards between the European Union and the United States. So far, for example, divergent security measures have been a source of hassle for the passengers, and unnecessary costs for the airlines. The potential for sensible harmonization is huge – but currently difficult to quantify.”
But the AEA Secretary General added that this agreement did not yet provide all elements of a level playing field for fair competition. “This agreement is important, but it is only a first step towards the ultimate goal, a true EU-US Open Aviation Area,” he said. “The second stage, as set forth in the agreement, gives both parties the means to negotiate further liberalization and eventually achieve the sort of framework this mature and competitive industry needs.”
But other groups were disappointed. Responding to the endorsement of the EU-US Air Transport Agreement by EU Transport Ministers, IACA and its members remain disappointed by the failure to reach a balanced result for airlines on both sides of the Atlantic. The deal gives US airlines full access to the internal EU market, whilst EU airlines are restricted to flying transatlantic trunk lines. EU airlines continue to be denied access to the US internal domestic market. According to the provisions of the agreement, EU airlines can only mimic access to the US internal market investing in non-voting equity of US carriers up to 49.9 percent (i.e. stocks without control in the airline). IACA considers that a deal between EU and US can only be balanced if it results in equal traffic rights for EU and US airlines in each other’s internal markets, identical ownership limits and control possibilities, as well as equivalent access to governmental traffic. Sylviane Lust, IACA Director General commented: "This agreement does not qualify as an ‘open sky agreement’ as it is a way off from the original plans for an Open Aviation Area trumpeted four years ago by the European Commission. The Commission’s shopping list for the second phase negotiations remains substantial while the US side has obtained everything it wanted in the first phase."
IACA is calling upon EU Member States to continue to put pressure on the European Commission for a genuine Open Skies deal, in which both EU and US airlines enjoy equal opportunities. EU ministers at the request of the UK will delay putting the deal into effect until March 2008. The UK has objected to the agreement, saying it may weaken British Airways and its hub at London's Heathrow Airport.

Continental Files for Blanket Open Skies Authority
Continental Airlines (NYSE:CAL) applauded today’s approval of an open skies agreement between the U.S. and the European Union which will provide Continental with flights access to London's Heathrow Airport for the first time. Upon news of the European Commission vote, Continental immediately filed an amended application at the U.S. Department of Transportation for rights to serve new routes to Europe once the open skies agreement takes effect.
Continental, which by the end of 2007 will operate to 30 destinations across the Atlantic from its U.S. hubs at New York/Newark, Houston and Cleveland, plans to inaugurate service from its Houston hub to London/Heathrow before summer 2008, subject to government approval and the airline obtaining necessary slots and facilities at Heathrow Airport.
As it expands into Heathrow, the airline will retain service to London/Gatwick currently offered from the airline's three U.S. hubs. "Our customers have always wanted more options for accessing London, and the open skies agreement will allow us to give our customers the convenience of choosing between Heathrow and Gatwick for their London travel plans," said Larry Kellner, Chairman and CEO of Continental Airlines.
Additionally, Continental has previously announced service between the airline's New York area hub at Newark Liberty International Airport and Athens, Greece and Mumbai, India, both scheduled to start in 2007.
In addition to new Houston-Heathrow service in 2008, Continental has also announced that it will inaugurate service to Paris in 2008 from the airline's hub at Cleveland where it operates seasonal service to London/Gatwick. The airline is working with the City of Cleveland to establish the necessary facilities at Hopkins International Airport in time for the launch of the Paris route. Under the SkyTeam alliance, passengers on the Continental flight to Paris will make convenient connections to other points around the world on Air France flights from its Paris hub.

Spirit Airlines To Charge For All Checked Bags
Spirit Airlines announced plans in March to start charging fees for all checked bags in June and for beverages such as coffee and soda. The airline said it will also reduce fares by 40 percent.

JetBlue Names Russell Chew Chief Operating Officer
JetBlue Airways announced in March that Russell G. (Russ) Chew has agreed to join
JetBlue as Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective March 19.  Mr. Chew joins JetBlue after four years with the Federal Aviation Administration as Chief Operating Officer, and 17 years with American Airlines as Managing Director of its System Operations Center.
Chew will be responsible for the airline's safe and reliable operations of 550 daily flights to 50 cities in six countries, leading JetBlue's Airports, Operational Planning, System Operations Center, Flight Operations, Technical Operations, Inflight Service, and Safety
departments.
Chew served as Chief Operating Officer of the Federal Aviation Administration from 2003 until February of this year, after 17 years with American Airlines in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility, including Managing Director of the world's largest
airline's System Operations Center and Strategic Operations Planning. A native of Los Angeles, California, Chew attended Stanford University for his undergraduate studies and earned his doctoral degree at the University of Southern California.

SWISS Posts Its First-Ever Black-Ink Results
Swiss International Air Lines (Group) improved its earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) to CHF 231 million for the 2006 business year (prior year: minus CHF 14 million). Consolidated net profit for the year amounted to CHF 263 million, which compares to a net loss of CHF 178 million for 2005. For the fourth quarter of 2006, SWISS reported an EBIT of CHF 32 million, having sustained a negative EBIT of CHF 38 million for the prior-year period. 
 SWISS generated total income from operating activities of CHF 4 153 million in 2006, an 11.3% improvement on the CHF 3 732 million of the prior year. Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) totalled CHF 231 million (prior year: minus CHF 14 million). Net profit for the year amounted to CHF 263 million (compared to a net loss of CHF 178 million for 2005).
SWISS maintained its revenue and earnings growth in the fourth quarter of 2006.Total income from operating activities for October to December amounted to CHF 1 098 million (prior-year period: CHF 998 million), while EBIT for the quarter totalled CHF 32 million (prior-year period: minus CHF 38 million). With economic conditions remaining favorable, SWISS thus posted both higher revenues and an operating profit in every quarter of 2006. "SWISS achieved its turnaround and began to climb in 2006," says CEO Christoph Franz, commenting on the results. "We made further progress in improving our cost base. But this is still not sufficiently competitive yet. The cost and revenue synergies deriving from our integration into the Lufthansa Group account for about half of our operating result. And the currently positive economic environment is giving us additional lift."

New Renovations At LAX Tom Bradley International Terminal Begin
A major renovation of the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) ha begun. The $723.5-million project calls for major interior renovations, installation of an in-line checked-baggage security system, and a second boarding gate for new large aircraft. Considered the largest individual project in Los Angeles City's history, the significant changes are expected to help LAX retain its competitiveness as the premier West Coast international gateway, especially to the Asia-Pacific Region.
Because the construction work will be performed while the terminal is fully operational, the project is also considered one of the most complex among U.S. airports. Renovations to the passenger boarding lounge and outside ramp area at Gate 123 on the north end of the terminal concourse will create a second gate to accommodate the new generation of jets such as the Airbus 380 and Boeing 747-800. Gate 101 on the south end of the terminal concourse was renovated last June to accommodate the new jets in advance of test flights. The 38-month project is expected to be completed by March 2010. LAX is the fifth busiest airport in the world with 53 percent of LAX passengers being served by TBIT.

Zurich Airport Voted Best Airport In Europe
 ACI (Airports Council International) has named Zurich best European airport in terms of general user satisfaction. And in the category of airports with 15 to 25 million passengers, Zurich is now ranked number three.
At the Airports Council International (ACI) conference held in Dubai in March, the Airport Service Quality Award was presented to the airports rated best in the world. This award is especially significant for airports since it is the outcome of a detailed analysis of strengths and weaknesses relating to passenger satisfaction. Zurich was voted “best European airport”, ahead of Brussels and Helsinki. And in the survey relating to airports with between 15 and 25 million passengers, Zurich came in third behind Kuala Lumpur and San Diego.
The results of the worldwide benchmarking survey were obtained from over 100,000 questionnaires collected from passenger surveys carried out at 86 airports throughout the world during the entire year.
  
Massachusetts Gets Bluer: JetBlue and Cape Air  Launch Marketing Partnership
JetBlue Airways Corporation has announced the launch of its new marketing partnership with Cape Air. The two airlines inaugurated convenient connecting service between nearly two dozen destinations served by JetBlue and four popular destinations served by
Cape Air: Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Provincetown, and Hyannis,
Massachusetts.
Through the JetBlue-Cape Air marketing partnership, JetBlue has placed its code on flights operated by Cape Air, making it possible for customers to book travel on a single itinerary between the Cape and Islands and 21 cities that connect through JetBlue's Boston focus city, including New York/JFK; Washington, DC/Dulles; Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Fla.; Denver, Colorado; Seattle, Washington.; San Francisco (a) and Los Angeles/Long Beach, California; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.; Charlotte (a) and
Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina(b).
In addition to connecting service available year-round and operated by Cape Air, JetBlue will launch its own daily nonstop service between Nantucket and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport on May 24, 2007. The low-fare airline will operate service for the peak summer season through September 24 aboard JetBlue's spacious 100-seat EMBRAER 190 jets.
(a) New nonstop service from Boston to Charlotte begins May 1. Nonstop
service from Boston to San Francisco begins May 3.
(b) Nonstop service between Boston and Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard,
Nantucket, and Provincetown operated by JetBlue partner airline Cape
Air. Nonstop service between New York/JFK and Nantucket operated by
JetBlue.

Air Canada Debuts Passes In The US For Unlimited Travel
Air Canada has now introduced, for the first time in the United States, subscription flight passes providing unlimited air travel for a flat monthly rate. To celebrate the introduction of its Unlimited 'Flight Pass to Canada,' Air Canada is offering a special introductory price until May 7, 2007 starting as low as only US$1,657 per month to fly as much as you want over a choice of three or six month periods. In addition, Air Canada is offering automatic top tier Elite frequent flyer status to its customers who purchase a six-month Unlimited 'Flight Pass to Canada' subscription at the Latitude fare level starting at $2,360 per month with additional flexibility and benefits. By pre-purchasing air travel, Flight Pass holders benefit from predictable fixed monthly payments and the convenience to manage their bookings online. Moreover, pass prices include airport fees, charges and taxes.

Air China Opens Up its First New Toll-Free Call Center in Europe
To better serve its customers, Air China is launching a new toll-free call center in Europe, starting in February 2007. The free service started in Germany and will progressively extend to other countries. The new service is customized not only for a variety of passenger needs, but also for business customers and partners in Air China's distribution channel. Air China's newly founded European Headquarters is responsible for the management of this service center, while Beijing plans the strategic development.
The new service, accessible by dialing 800-86-100-999, will be available to callers in six major languages: English, German, French, Italian, Russian, and Chinese. Air China customers will enjoy general enquiries support, ticket booking and sales service, frequent flyer service, and immediate attention to other customer issues. Air China's Beijing Headquarters and European offices allocated qualified trainers for the implementation of this service center. The training lasted for two months, with intensive courses given in general airline knowledge, Air China customer service processes, the use of the reservation system, etc. For the ongoing phase, Air China will allocate support on a rotating basis from their specific country offices in Europe to improve the quality of services as well as to help the front end service staffs better understand the customers from different markets.

Continental Airlines Increases Its Commitment to Boeing 787 Dreamliner
Continental Airlines recently announced that it has increased its commitment to the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, raising its firm order from 20 to 25 aircraft. By adding five 787-9 aircraft to its firm order, Continental is strengthening its ability to further modernize its fleet in the years ahead and unlocking additional international expansion opportunities.
In addition to increasing its firm order to 25 787s, Continental has converted 12 previously ordered 787-8s into 787-9s, for a total of 17 787-9 and eight 787-8 aircraft on firm order. Continental becomes the first airline in the Americas to order the 787-9, which will carry more passengers and fly further than the 787-8.
The Boeing 787 is the optimal aircraft to support Continental's strategy for continued international growth. With expanded range capabilities, unmatched fuel efficiency and superior operating economics, the 787s will allow the company to replace less efficient widebody aircraft, and target additional long-haul markets. The 787s will also give Continental the ability to offer more capacity on international routes that need larger aircraft to support traffic growth.

US Airways To Apply For Philadelphia/Shanghai Route
US Airways plans to apply for Philadelphia-Shanghai service later this year when the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) calls for 2008 U.S.-China applications. If approved by DOT, the service will begin in March 2008 and will be the new US Airways' first service into Asia.

ASTA Members Rate Family-Friendly Airports
 In a recent survey of American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) members asking which airports they ranked as the most family-friendly, Orlando International Airport, with 41.7 percent of the vote, was a the clear winner. For those families traveling abroad, London’s BAA Heathrow Airport was ranked number one in being all about the kids. “With the emphasis on families, more and more parents are choosing to take their children with them, not just to see grandma, but on international vacations,” said Cheryl Hudak, CTC, ASTA president and CEO. “Anyone who has traveled with small children knows what a life-saver a family-friendly airport can be.”
Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (4.6 percent) came in a distant second but with two play areas, complete with TVs and board games, as well as a dinosaur exhibit and a children’s art gallery, parents may find their children wanting to visit the airport rather than the playground.
Tied for third were Denver International Airport and Tampa International Airport (3.6 percent). Both offer designated play areas, and for those who live in the Tampa area, birthday parties complete with a scavenger hunt. Charlotte Douglas International Airport was ranked fourth. And Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport with multiple, spacious play areas each featuring a mock airplane, an air traffic control tower and luggage-style seating, tied with Detroit Metro Airport, which features four play areas, for fifth place (3 percent).
The most family-friendly international airport was London’s BAA Heathrow Airport, which garnered 24.6 percent of the votes. The airport offers special rooms for feeding and changing infants, as well as a variety of age-appropriate play areas. For older children, there’s a flight simulator game and arcade stations scattered throughout the airport. Younger children might enjoy the free coloring books and crayons that are dispensed at the information desks.
Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport came in second with an 18.4 percent share. Not surprising given the airport’s designated play areas featuring slides, wagons and Legos. Older children can test their memory with educational computer games or kick back with a little Nintendo. Frankfurt with its multiple play areas came in third with 8.3 percent.
London’s Gatwick Airport was ranked fourth. Like its neighbor, Heathrow, Gatwick offers several play areas and video arcades scattered throughout the terminals. In fifth place was Singapore’s Changi Airport’s whose Family Zone includes nursing rooms, diaper-changing stations and a washing area, as well as a playpen for toddlers and a corner where parents and children can watch cartoons.

Europe By Air Partnership With Aegean Airlines Links Europe And Middle East
Europe By Air expands its flight network to include in its unique FlightPass program one-way fares of $129 USD between Athens, Greece and Cairo, Egypt. Aegean Airlines’ scheduled flights between Athens and Cairo operate five times per week. Aegean also flies internationally between Greece and Germany, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria and Cyprus. All Aegean international destinations are available at the $129 USD fare and Aegean’s domestic scheduled services between the Islands and the Greek mainland are available at $99 USD. FlightPass fares are one-way and do not include local taxes or fees. Confirmed reservations are made in advance and no fees apply for changes. Buy as few or as many FlightPasses as you wish. FlightPasses can be used on any of the 23 participating airlines, are valid for 120 days but non refundable.
Reservations and information about the EuropebyAir combined airline network of 170 European cities and for transatlantic fares are available at www.EuropebyAir.com, through travel agents or by calling 1 888 387 2479.
The well-established EuropebyAir FlightPass program was founded in 1998, and is a unique product that combines the route structures of geographically dispersed airlines into a vast, pan European network of over 170 destinations.

Virgin Atlantic To Feature Its Film Festival In The Sky
Virgin Atlantic has joined forces with the UK’s National Film and Television School to showcase new film making talent onboard in its own Film Festival in the Sky. Over the next four months Virgin Atlantic will be screening 14 specially selected short films on the personal seatback entertainment centers featured on every seat throughout the plane. Passengers can watch the films during their flight and then vote to compile a shortlist of six films that will be shown onboard for a further three months. Voting will take place
through the end of June. During this time the finalists will be assessed by a panel of highly respected industry figures who will choose a winner and two runners up.  These three filmmakers will have their film screened onboard for a further three months. The overall winner will receive Virgin Atlantic tickets and have their next film shown onboard to a potential audience of 5 million passengers. The panel of judges consists of actress Brenda Blethyn, actor Nick Moran, Stephen Woolley, former chairman of the British Academy, and Sue Lion, Managing Director of the Encounters International Short Films Festival. All passengers who view the short films need to send their nomination to www.tv@fly.virgin.com.  All those who enter will have the opportunity to win tickets to
Billy Elliott, the musical.

American Airlines Opens Midtown Manhattan Travel Center
American Airlines opened a new Travel Center in the Grand Central area where service representatives can personally meet passengers' many needs including expediting passport and visas applications.
American's new Travel Center is at 360 Lexington Avenue, between 40th and 41st streets, and replaces its former center in the Satellite Terminal at 125 Park Avenue. American shares its new, larger quarters with It's Easy—a service that provides passengers with swift, experienced assistance in obtaining the passports and visas required for international travel.
Travel Center hours are 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays, and from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturdays.

New Air Connections

Frontier Airlines will launch daily non-stop service between its Denver International Airport (DEN) hub and Louisville International Airport (SDF) beginning Sunday, April 1, 2007. The two daily non-stop flights between Denver and Louisville will utilize Frontier's regional jet service operated by Republic Airlines, meaning travelers will enjoy the comfort and convenience of Frontier's new 76-seat Embraer ERJ 170 aircraft****United Airlines gives customers a taste of "la dolce vita" with its new daily nonstop service between Rome and Washington, D.C. The new route strengthens the company's hub on the East Coast as an international gateway to major capitals around the world. United Flight 966 will depart Washington Dulles Airport at 6:16 p.m. on April 1, and arrive in Rome at 8:50 a.m. on April 2. Beginning April 2, United Flight 967 will depart Rome at 11:15 a.m. and arrive in Washington, D.C., at 3:00 p.m. the same day. United will operate combined passenger and cargo service between the United States and Italy using a Boeing-777 aircraft configured with 10 United First Suite(R) seats, 45 United Business seats and 198 United Economy(R) class seats, including 84 Economy Plus(R) seats that have up to five more inches of legroom. The route is expected to provide approximately 35,000 pounds of cargo per flight between the United States and Italy ****Brussels Airlines will operate a weekly Brussels – Bujumbura (Burundi) long haul service starting April 22, 2007. This new route is the only direct service between Burundi and Europe. Passengers traveling between the two countries will save several hours travel time. Brussels Airlines is also launching new service to Krakow as of March 30 with five flights of week. One-way fares start from €49.99. Brussels Airlines launches a new service between the European capital and Sardinia. As of April  27, passengers of Brussels Airlines can enjoy 5 weekly flights between Brussels Airlines’ home base and the capital of Sardinia, Cagliari, with fares starting from €49.99 euros all taxes included. Website: www.brusselsairlines.com **** Midwest Airlines has announced the  launch of nonstop Midwest Connect service between Milwaukee and Raleigh/Durham, N.C. will begin June 1. Midwest Connect will be the only airline offering nonstop service in the market.**** Frontier Airlines will launch daily non-stop service between its Denver International Airport (DEN) hub and Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) beginning June 15, 2007. Prior to Frontier's new service, Jacksonville was the largest US market without direct, non-stop service from Denver. In addition to Frontier's new service to Jacksonville, Frontier currently flies non-stop from Denver to four other Florida cities—Ft. Lauderdale, Ft. Myers, Tampa and Orlando.****South African Airways has announced the launch of its new summer route, flying July 7 through September 29 from Johannesburg, South Africa, to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, further expanding destination options for travelers across the African continent. The new flight (SA084) will depart Johannesburg on Saturdays at 9:30AM and arrive in Kilimanjaro at 2:30PM. The return flight from Kilimanjaro to Johannesburg (SA085) will depart the same day at 3:30PM and arrive back in Johannesburg at 6:35PM. The new route will operate on SAA's Airbus 319-100, comfortably seating 120 passengers. South African Airways features the only nonstop service from the U.S. to South Africa with daily departures from Washington, as well as daily direct service from New York,.****US
Airways will launch new nonstop service between its Charlotte, North Carolina hub and Portland, Oregon International Airport. US Airways customers in Portland will enjoy daily service to US Airways' largest hub, where they can connect to other US Airways destinations throughout the Eastern U.S., Central America, the Caribbean and even Europe. Meanwhile, loyal, long-time US Airways customers in Charlotte will have non-stop access to an additional West Coast destination. US Airways will operate the route using Airbus A320 aircraft, seating 12 in the first class cabin and 138 in coach. **** Ethiopian Airlines has announced its new summer schedule, which features two additional flights from Washington, D.C. to Ethiopia. The new summer schedule provides six weekly flights from Washington, D.C. to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. The new flights start on May 10. In addition, Ethiopian Airlines is pleased to announce new flights from Ethiopia's capital city of Addis Ababa to two major destinations in the Middle East. On May 14, 2007, non-stop flights between Ethiopia and Bahrain begin, and on June 3, 2007, the airline begins non-stop service to Sanaa, Yemen. With the new service, US travelers can make easy connections to the airline's new three weekly flights to Bahrain, and four weekly flights to Sanaa, Yemen. The new flights to Bahrain will be the only nonstop flights between Addis Ababa and Bahrain, and will cut three hours from the travel time versus existing connections. The new service will also offer direct connections from Bahrain and Yemen to 19 destinations throughout Africa via Ethiopian Airlines hub at Addis Ababa. **** Continental Airlines will launch daily nonstop flights between its New York area hub at Newark Liberty International Airport and Mumbai (Bombay) beginning October 30, 2007, subject to government approval. Continental has operated nonstop service between New York and Delhi since 2005. The flight will be timed to provide convenient connections at Continental's New York hub with more than 230 other cities throughout the U.S., Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. Mumbai will be the 30th city in Continental's trans-Atlantic route network.****Air Canada,  effective December 14, 2007, Air Canada will introduce daily non-stop service between Vancouver and Sydney, Australia using its new 777 aircraft. Air Canada thus becomes the only airline offering non-stop service between Canada and Australia.****JetBlue will launch of nonstop service this spring between Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, as well as the launch of
new nonstop service between Boston and Bermuda and between Orlando and
Ponce, Puerto Rico. Bermuda flights begin May 1 while Santo Domingo and
Ponce flights begin May 24. JetBlue will also add additional daily flights for the peak summer season on existing routes between New York/JFK and Aruba; New York/JFK
and Santiago, Dominican Republic; and between Orlando and San Juan, Puerto Rico. In addition in the greater New York City area, JetBlue Airways has begun daily nonstop service between White Plains' Westchester County Airport and Orlando, Florida as we;; as one daily nonstop flight to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, and a second daily flight to Orlando, Florida.****AirTran Airways will expand its service from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport with new nonstop flights to Seattle, Washington and Portland, Maine. The airline also announced the return of seasonal service to Milwaukee, Wis., and Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, along with enhanced service to Charlotte Douglas International Airport. New nonstop flights to Seattle/Tacoma will begin May 24, 2007, and AirTran Airways will begin service to Portland, Maine on June 7, 2007. Effective April 17, 2007, AirTran Airways will renew its seasonal service between Baltimore/Washington and Dallas/Fort Worth, and on May 8, 2007, the airline will renew seasonal service to Milwaukee. Additional flights between Baltimore/Washington and Charlotte will begin on May 8, 2007. In addition AirTran Airways will begin service to Charleston, South Carolina effective May 24, 2007, by offering two round-trip nonstop flights between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with the addition of two more round-trip flights on June 7, 2007. The route will be served by AirTran Airways' popular Boeing 717-200 aircraft, which seats 117 passengers (12 Business Class and 105 in coach).**** ExpressJet at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport will offer non-stop flights from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to: Austin, San Antonio, Texas; Kansas City, Missouri; Birmingham, Alabama; Jacksonville, Florida; and Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina. Service to these new non-stop destinations will start between April 30 and June 4 with two daily departures to each city. ExpressJet will also offer convenient one-stop service to Tucson, Arizona. Booking and updated flight information is available on www.xjet.com  and through most travelers' preferred travel agencies.**** Spirit Airlines will launch seasonal nonstop service between Atlantic City and San Juan on May 3 and from Tampa to San Juan, effective May 4. The Atlantic City-San Juan flight will operate Thursdays through Sundays to August 12 while the Tampa-San Juan flight will operate four days a week, on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, to June 13, and five days a week (including Thursdays) to August 12. In addition, the carrier will launch service from Fort Lauderdale to Port of Spain, Trinidad, on or about May 1, pending government approval. For information, visit www.spiritair.com.**** Iberia Airlines will launch nonstop service from Boston and Washington to Spain this spring, marking the only nonstop service to the destination from those gateways. On May 6, the new Boston-Madrid service will begin operating five days a week with an introductory fare of $549 plus taxes. The Dulles-Madrid service, also five times weekly, will kick off June 2, priced at $699 plus taxes. Both flights will use two-class Airbus aircraft.**** Cayman Airways (www.caymanairways.com ) will launch three weekly nonstop flights between New York (Kennedy) and Grand Cayman, effective June 24, subject to government approval. The flights will operate from New York at 9 a.m. on Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays; from Grand Cayman, the flights will depart at 4:10 p.m. on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The service actually will mark the return of Cayman Airways to the New York area after a roughly 16-year absence. The carrier currently has nonstop 737 service to Grand Cayman from Boston, Chicago, Houston, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.**** SriLankan Airlines is adding a third weekly flight between Colombo, Sri Lanka and the popular coastal resort city of Goa, India. Sri Lankan Airlines currently serves Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Karachi, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mumbai, Thirvananthapuram, and Tiruchirapally in India. The airline now has 95 weekly flights to 12 destinations within India from the airline's south Asian hub in Colombo, Sri Lanka. ****

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                                    Rail News & Offers

 
Amtrak Expands Use Of Wireless Credit Card Processing On Trains
Amtrak passengers traveling on the rail line’s long distance trains are now able to purchase food and beverages with a swipe of their credit cards. Amtrak service attendants are now utilizing wireless credit card processing terminals on long distance trains, similar to the ones used in the Northeast on Acela Express trains. The wireless devices provide instant authorizations on purchases from credit card companies. Previously, Amtrak said, attendants needed to hand write ticket and passenger information on paper forms for credit card acceptance.
Amtrak said the processing terminals accept all major credit cards and there are no minimum purchase requirements. Amtrak eventually intends to use the wireless processing terminals system wide.

Paris Celebrates Its New Tramway
Since entering service last December, Paris’s new tramway—the T3—has carried more than 5 million riders . The first modern trolley in decades runs along a grassy track on the outer perimeter of most of Paris' Left Bank—the13th, 14th and 15th arrondissements. The five-mile route features 17 passenger stations opened from 5 am to 12:30 am daily and a less than four-minute wait between trains.
Located on the Maréchaux boulevards (south of Paris), it gives the opportunity to travelers to enjoy a modern, fast and comfortable mode of transportation and reduces noise nuisance and pollution. It grants Parisians requests for additional public transport within the city, thereby making Paris more mobile and a practical alternative to get around in the auto-clogged city.
All along the new track, people can discover an artistic route of sorts, with works by famous artists on display, enabling an appreciation of culture and art.  The installations range from unique park benches with sound effects, to skate parks and fountains.  All works were conceived with a nod to both urban space and contemporary art. A great way to tour hidden Paris. To find out more, visit http://www.tramway.paris.fr/

French Rail Inaugurates First Phase Of Vaires-sur-Marne/Baudrecourt High-Speed Link
The French Rail high-speed line and the Lorraine region of France inaugurated the first phase of a high-speed rail link connecting Vaires-sur-Marne and Baudrecourt. Starting June 10, the East European TGV will cover the first 300 kilometers of the LGV at a record speed of about 200 mph. The travel time from ten major Lorraine cities to Paris will be cut in half, and connections will also open up the national TGV network that spans France's north, west and southwest. The new service is expected to boost traffic to the Lorraine region by 40 percent.

Mir Corporation Offers Unique Rail Journeys In Asia And Europe
This private expedition company is offering unusual journeys by rail in Asia, the Middle East and parts of Eastern Europe. Scheduled rail journeys in 2007 include exploring Trans-Siberia, the Ukraine, the Silk Road and China in private rail cars. For a brochure of these fascinating journeys operated by the Trans-Siberian Express Company of England for MIR, email info@mircorp.com or visit www.mircorp.com.

ACP Rail Launches New Redesigned Website
ACP RAIL unveiled a Web site designed to simplify booking travel in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland. The site can be found at www.scandinavianrail.com  and features commissionable products including the ScanRail Pass, Eurail's individual country rail passes and point-to-point rail tickets throughout Scandinavia. Other highlights include destination and travel information on such top attractions as Hamlet's Ellsinore Castle and Tivoli Gardens. Fjord and city sightseeing tours and discount admission passes to tourist attractions also are included as is advice on weather, language and Scandinavian culture and folklore.

Service Between New York City and Atlantic City Slated To Begin This Summer
In a move that expands the reach of the state’s tourism market, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today approved a special three-year demonstration rail service between New York Penn Station and Atlantic City, under contract with the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) and Atlantic City Express Service, LLC (ACES), a partnership of Atlantic City hotels.
Under the agreement, CRDA and ACES will work with NJ TRANSIT to operate 18 express trains on weekends (Friday afternoon through Sunday night) between New York Penn Station and the Atlantic City Rail Terminal. The trains will provide customers with a one-seat ride between New York and Atlantic City, with one or more stops in New Jersey, based on market demand. The service is expected to provide roundtrip transportation for approximately 1,100 people or 2,200 trips, each weekend.
As part of the agreement with ACES, NJ TRANSIT will purchase eight additional multi-level rail cars for the service and lease four diesel locomotives from Amtrak.
Service is expected to begin in late 2007.

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Hotel/Resort News & Offers

Elan Resort & Spa Officially Opens In Cancun
Lying on its own peninsula overlooking the huge Nichupté Lagoon and set amid lush tropical gardens and flowing tiled fountains, the Elan Resort & Spa is reminiscent of a 17th century Mexican village. The luxury resort has 95 rooms and 51 one-, two- and three-bedroom villa suites, six restaurants, three bars, two private beach areas, two swimming pools, two tennis courts, a fitness center, steam rooms, saunas, a Temazcal, an authentic Mayan sauna and a Cyber Cafe. The Elements Spa showcases its signature Mayan and Ayurvedic treatments. Unlimited classes in yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi are offered and sail boats, canoes, windsurfers and water bikes are provided for use in the lagoon. Entertainment in the evenings reflects the tasteful atmosphere of Élan. A Mexican anthropologist might lecture on Mayan customs and each week the Plaza Santa Cecilia will come alive with a ballet folklorico and mariachi music.
When guests stay at the all-inclusive Élan, all expenses are covered: all meals and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, roundtrip airport transfers, nightly entertainment, use of recreational facilities, water sports equipment, the fitness center and the sauna and steam rooms, tennis courts and equipment, exercise classes and a half-hour “Élan  massage,” and all hotel taxes and service charges.
Through April 7, the rate for a tower room with garden view is $300 per night and for the tower room with water view, $350. A one-bedroom villa unit on the garden side is $450 and on the water side, is $500 per night. Two- to three-bedroom villa units range from $700 to $1150. From April 8 to December 20, rates for rooms and villas are $250 to $1000 per night. Children 14 and over are welcomed as adults in appropriate suites when sharing with adults. 
For further information, go to www.elanresort.com  and for reservations, contact:
1-888-400-ELAN (3526).

Luxury Resort Opens On North Caicos
Imagine relaxing on a deserted stretch of powdery white sand beside an aquamarine sea, with nothing but your significant other in sight for seven miles – except a flock of pink flamingos.  That’s the prospect at St. Charles, a luxurious new resort that recently opened on tranquil North Caicos.   Set in lush tropical gardens, overlooking seven-mile-long Horsestable Beach, this elegant hideaway has 15 one, two and three bedroom suites all with breathtaking views of the Caribbean, expansive private balconies and spacious living areas. A focal point of this quiet sanctuary is its beachside freeform pool with swim-up bar. Guests can opt for a game of beach volleyball or spend the afternoon snorkeling around the most pristine reefs in the Turks and Caicos.
Designed as an elegant sanctuary, the fully air-conditioned accommodations range from 1200 to 2800 square feet and are equipped with ceiling fans. From the Travertine marble floors to the granite and stainless steel kitchens and the lavish marble baths, they were carefully devised for comfort and convenience.
From now through April 7, high-season rates for a one-bedroom oceanfront suite are $560 and $660 for a two-bedroom oceanfront suite. The three-bedroom oceanfront penthouse is $2,800. Studios with garden or pool view are $250 and $300 respectively. Taxes and service charge are extra. From April 8 to December 21, prices range from $200 to $2,000. Included in the daily rate are: 
Round trip airport transfers with tropical punch on arrival and use of snorkeling equipment and Internet access.
The resort can arrange scuba diving, fishing for billfish or bonefish and horseback riding. Eco-tours, birding excursions – including a trip to the Flamingo Pond – and whale watching, in season, are available as are island-hopping trips and picnics on deserted beaches.
St. Charles’ second phase calls for a spa and fitness center with sauna, lighted tennis courts, a croquet lawn, shops and a gourmet restaurant. Eventually there will be an additional 75 suites. 
For further information, go to www.stcharlesnc.com  and for reservations, call toll free: 1-877-224-2679 (or 1-732-728-0200.)

Donald Trump Developing New Resort In The Dominican Republic.
The latest Caribbean development venture for The Donald (Trump) also is one of the largest in the Caribbean. While Trump already has his name on the golf course and casino at the Raffles Resort on Canouan in the Grenadines, the Trump at Cap Cana project in the Dominican Republic will measure 30,000 acres and cost in the neighborhood of $2 billion. When completed, the resort will feature more than 5,000 residential units, four luxury hotels, three Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses and a marina with 1,000 slips for yachts up to 150 feet long. The marina's first phase is set to open this spring. For details, visit www.capcana.com. For destination information, visit www.godominicanrepublic.com.

The Greenbrier Re-Opens After Extensive Renovations
After an extensive $50 million renovation project, The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia has reopened.  The legendary property will debut 63 updated guest rooms with new marble bathrooms that have soaking tubs and walk-in showers, updated décor under the direction of renowned designer Carleton Varney with patterned fabrics and pastel wallpapers, executive-style desks with larger workspaces, and new furniture.  All of the resort’s 721 guest rooms were outfitted with new bedding and linens, large plasma-screen televisions, and enhanced bathroom amenities.
An entirely new culinary experience will debut summer 2007 with the opening of Hemisphere, a new restaurant with a globally-influenced tasting menu and 38°80, a unique cocktail lounge. The Greenbrier will continue to offer over 50 recreational activities to its guests, including indoor and outdoor tennis, golf on three championship courses, rock climbing, tours of its former Cold War-era Congressional bunker on property, falconry, fishing, off-road driving, and use of the property’s 40,000 square-foot spa.
Under the direction of Chef Michael Voltaggio, Hemisphere will herald a departure from The Greenbrier’s previous dining experience.  Guests can expect introductions to new tastes and textures paired with the finest meats, poultry, produce, and seafood from around the globe.  Serving only dinner five nights a week, the Hemisphere menu will feature a choice of up to four tasting menus paired with wine and cocktail flights. The Greenbrier’s new cocktail lounge also debuting this summer, 38°80, will feature hand-crafted flights and artisan garnishes along with world lounge music.  
Residing on 6,500-acres of lush landscape in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, The Greenbrier is an award-winning resort which has been offering a welcoming home to its guests since 1778.  This National Historic Landmark, also known as America’s Resort, is reopening April 2 after a $50 million renovation project.  The property provides a world-class haven for discerning business guests and sophisticated leisure travelers.  Top-notch amenities and services include elegant meeting and event space, fine dining establishments, and access to over 50 recreational activities including three championship golf courses, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, and a 40,000 square-foot spa.  For more information or reservations, please visit www.greenbrier.com  or call 800-624-6070. 

Harbour Island's Pink Sands Beach
The beach's pink color comes from microscopic coral insects called Foraminifera.  With bright pink or red shells, they thrive underneath reefs, on sea floors, beneath rocks and caves.  Foraminifera wash up on shore when waves or fish knock them loose.  Unlike typical beaches, the sand here is always cool – feel free to walk about with bare feet.  Sparkling waters are hemmed by a barrier reef that creates a natural aquarium perfect for snorkeling and some of the safest swimming in The Bahamas. 
Travelers can enjoy the beach while staying at the Pink Sands Hotel – the perfect mix of sophisticated hideaway, colonial charm, flawless service and seaside luxury on Harbour Island.  Lush vegetation twines across this 20-acre haven, also there is an official bird sanctuary.
A resort designed around an eclectic mixture of Moroccan, Indian and Balinese inspiration, Pink Sands provides delicious cuisine, massage services and sea excursions to further harmonize the tranquil setting. Summer rates for the 25 pastel cottages start at $600 per night, per two people and include full breakfast and dinner daily. 18% service charge is additional. Visit www.islandoutpost.com/pinksands or call 1.800.OUTPOST.
ABOUT PINK SANDS:

Seattle's SAM I AM PACKAGE at the Mayflower Park Hotel
Closed for over 16 months for expansion, The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) reopens its doors to nearly twice the space. For the many travelers interested in the new exhibits and space, the Mayflower Park Hotel introduces a special SAM I AM PACKAGE starting May 5 through June 30, 2007. Package includes two tickets to SAM, valet parking, and a classic or deluxe guest room. Package prices are $209 for a classic guest room and $229 for the deluxe guest room. The SAM is just a short walk from the hotel in downtown Seattle. Built in 1927, the beautifully renovated Mayflower Park Hotel is one of the last remaining locally owned and independent hotels in the Seattle area. It is a member of The National Trust Historic Hotels of America(R) and is also home to the award-winning Martini bar, Oliver's, and Seattle's best Mediterranean dining spot, the Andaluca Restaurant.
For reservations call 206-382-6990, 800-426-5100 or e-mail at mayflowerpark@mayflowerpark.com . This special offer is good through June 30, 2007, and is based on a space available basis and does not include tax.

 

First NYC Hotel to Introduce Allergen-Friendly Guest Rooms
The deluxe Premier Hotel in Times Square, a Millennium Hotels and Resorts property, is breaking new ground with the introduction of its new "Premier Pure" rooms which feature an allergen- friendly environment. The Premier Pure rooms are 98 percent free of bacteria and viruses which are eliminated via a special purification technique. The hotel is also introducing therapeutic natural skin care products by LATHER as its bath amenities.
The Premier is the first New York City hotel to introduce allergen- friendly rooms utilizing an innovative, one-of-a-kind high-tech cleansing and maintenance process developed by Pure Solutions N.A. Premier Pure rooms are available on three floors of The Premier (16 guest rooms), the Penthouse and Fitness Center. This is the first Fitness Center in the world that has received this utterly new process. Each room has been treated comprehensively to remove allergens from all surfaces, fabrics and air flow.
To maintain ideal conditions in the room, a state-of-the-art air purification system is installed, creating air quality that averages four times cleaner than the threshold for asthma patients. This system is registered by the FDA as a Class II medical device. In addition, special micro-fiber hypo-allergenic pillow cases and mattress covers are used in the room to eliminate dust, dander and dust-mite related allergens usually associated with common bedding.
In June 2006, the 125-room Premier also converted to a fully non-smoking facility. The hotel's smoking rooms (24 rooms in total) underwent a special deep cleaning process prior to conversion to non-smoking rooms. The Premier became one of the first non-smoking deluxe hotels in New York City.
The hotel is also introducing LATHER bath amenities including body, skin, and hair care products made from the finest, most effective natural ingredients, including essential oils, antioxidants, extracts from rare fruits and herbs.
The Premier is a luxury boutique hotel located in the Millennium Broadway's adjacent private tower. The Premier features luxury amenities and a range of guest benefits such as late checkout, daily newspaper delivery and use of the Premier Lounge, where guests can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres and beer and wine, and continuous snacks throughout the day. Guests also have access to a personalized 24-hour concierge service.
For more information please visit http://www.millenniumhotels.com

Mexico Boutique Hotels Announces New Packages and Promotions
Mexico Boutique Hotels, the one-stop shop for finding the perfect Mexican vacation, announces new packages and promotions for 2007. A sampling:
-- Just book a minimum three-night stay at any property now through June 2007 and be automatically entered to win a free, three-night return stay to another Mexico Boutique Hotel. Register online at www.mexicoboutiquehotels.com. Valid for bookings made now, for travel through June 30, 2007.
-- A weekend getaway is easy, and necessary. Mexico Boutique Hotels makes it easy to slip away. Book three nights and get the 4th night free at participating hotels. Valid for travel March 16 - Sept 30, 2007.
-- Mexico Boutique Hotels offers ideal romantic retreats. Stay in one of our participating hotels, and receive Champagne or sparkling wine upon arrival, breakfast in bed each morning and one romantic dinner for two -- even a late check-out. Valid for travel March 16 - December 15, 2007. Minimum three-night stay.
-- Stay in one of the newly added hotels in the collection and earn 10% off a stay of three nights or more (room only). Valid for travel April 1 - August 31, 2007. Minimum three-night stay.
--Stay at our participating properties during the month of May and celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style! Embrace history and enjoy a fifth night free on stays of four nights or more at any participating Mexico Boutique Hotel. (Valid for May arrivals only.)
For more information or to make reservations, visit www.mexicoboutiquehotels.com  or call 1-800-728-9098 (US and Canada).

Carlson Hotels Worldwide Adds Nine New Properties to Its Global
Carlson Hotels Worldwide today announced that the company has added nine new locations to its global portfolio of brands from January through February 2007. The new hotels include two Radisson SAS properties in Kazakhstan and Norway; two Radisson Hotels & Resorts(R) properties in California and Arizona; a new spa hotel in Chile developed by Radisson Hotels Latin America; two Park Inn(R) hotels in Michigan and Russia; and two Park Plaza(R) Hotels & Resorts properties in India and China. Carlson Hotels Worldwide now includes a total of 945 locations with nearly 146,000 rooms in 71 countries. Carlson hotel brands also include Regent Hotels & Resorts.

Small Luxury Hotels of the World Expands Guests Experiences In South America
After years of building its portfolio to perfection in other regions, Small Luxury Hotels of the World has now extended its variety of guest experiences to South America with the addition of two natural wonderlands of beauty, culture and luxury that are Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel in Peru and Correntoso Lake & River Hotel in Patagonia, Argentina.  Carefully selected for their exemplification of the brand’s high standards of superior quality, highly personalized service and unique experiences, both properties offer guests a refined refuge surrounded by natural beauty and cultural excitement. “We were very careful in selecting the right properties to expand into South America and it has certainly paid off with these two gems,” commented Paul Kerr, Joint Managing Director of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. “The guest experiences available at these two properties are exactly what luxury travelers have come to rely on from Small Luxury Hotels of the World.”
Set over the mouth of the Correntoso river where it meets the Nahuel Huapi lake in Patagonia, the Correntoso Lake & River Hotel basks in a setting of which one can only normally dream. Scenic serenity and a wealth of outdoor pursuits make this 27 room hotel a haven for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and luxury travelers seeking an immense calm. Dating back to 1917, but renovated in 2006, this secluded paradise offers guests a variety of experiences ranging from simply relaxing poolside at the foot of the Andes or pursuing a variety of lake activities and water sports such as fishing and sailing. Rates start at $290 USD per night.
Neighboring the illustrious Andes on the other side sits a private mountainside refuge, deep in the lush Andean cloud forest known as Inkaterra Machu Picchu hotel. Complete relaxation, total seclusion and the utmost luxury is the resort's fundamental philosophy. Set within the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, the resort sympathetically blends into its surroundings as guests lend witness to stunning waterfalls and wonderful forest. Cozy, whitewashed cottages give this intimate 85-room hotel the appearance of a majestic Andean village; while a glass-walled restaurant and adjacent terraces offer glorious views of the rapid-flowing Urumbamba river and the Andes mountains. A perfect location from which to explore the historic trails of the Incas or simply enjoy the iconic beauty of the surroundings, Inkaterra boasts pleasures usually reserved for the most elite. Rates start at $350 USD per night.
Correntoso and Inkaterra are just two of more than 70 new additions to Small Luxury Hotels of the World for 2007 including other firsts in Dubai, Oman, Philippines, Hong Kong, Anguilla, South Korea and Croatia.
SLH is an exclusive brand of more than 400 independent, luxury hotels offering an infinite variety of memorable experiences in 65 countries. Reservations can be made at any Small Luxury Hotel of the World by calling toll-free 800 525 4800 or via  www.slh.com. Travel agents need only remember the GDS code LX for LuXury.

Villa Company Wimco Suggests Private Villa Holidays In Italy
From frescoes and fabrics, vistas and vineyards, the details imbued in the distinctive Italian portfolio of Wimco, the Newport, RI, villa rental and hotel reservations company, play a big role in creating memorable vacations. In addition to the recognized castle and farmhouse attributes of villas in Tuscany, Umbria and the Amalfi, Wimco also reserves villas in such want-to-be-there-too places as Lake Como and Sardinia.
Following is a sampling of villas with available retinues including chefs, that sleep eight or more, and that are available in other playful Italian places. Rates reflect rounded-off weekly pricing beginning early June but not the higher rates of July / August.
-- Lake Como: Two adjacent estate villas  with a total of 12 bedrooms, frescoes, Italian linens and antiques from the owner's collection also utilize the concierge services of Villa d'Este across the lake. Guest staff can be hosted in gatehouse apartments at an extra charge. Rates are up to $75,000 weekly for combo. (BRV SER --  http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=901061&pnl=d and BRV MAR -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=897838&pnl=d
-- Lake Maggiore (Lombardy): Villa I Tassi (SAL TAS -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=900653&pnl=d  was designed by a famous Italian architect in the 1970s to maximize a lakefront location and views of the Alps, Lake Maggiore's Isola Madre and the S. Caterina del Sasso promontory, where there is a hermitage dating to the 13th century. Sleeping up to eight, the rate is from $3,200.
-- Portofino: Villa L’Ulivo (SAL ULI  -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=901108&pnl=d ), wrapping around an olive tree, overlooks the village, harbor and surrounding mountains. It is one of the very few properties available for rent in Portofino. It sleeps 12 from $8,000.
-- Cinque Terre: Villa Lagore (SAL LAG -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=897961&pnl=d ) offers five bedrooms, a short walk to a sandy beach and breathtaking panoramas of this region for the most part accessible only on foot or by train. The rate is from $5,000.
-- Sicily: Between the Mediterranean (a stone’s throw away) and Mt. Etna, Villa Calipso (BRV CAL -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=901324&pnl=d ) sleeps 24 from $15,000. Villa Olmo (BRV OLM --  http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=899194&pnl=d ) allows guests to enjoy an aristocratic lifestyle in a lush citrus valley near Taormina and an 18-hole golf course. It sleeps up to 14 for $24,000, with the option to use an additional four bedrooms at an extra rate.
-- Sardinia (near Costa Smeralda): Villa Cava Romana (HII CAV -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=901300&pnl=d ) in Porto Rotondo overlooks the bay of Cala di Volpe and is one of the region’s most exclusive locales. It sleeps 11 with rates from $13,000. It is built atop a mine used by the ancient Romans. Both beach and port are within walking distance. 
-- Torcello (Venice): This island on the northeastern side of the Venetian lagoon is famous for artichokes and Locanda Cipriani, a gastronomic star whose satellites include Hotel Cipriani and Harry’s Bar. Here is Villa San Giovanni (SAL SGI --  http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=897887&pnl=d ) sleeping up to 12. Rates are from $11,000. Its name comes from a nearby Romanesque church, some of which ruins have been restored by the International Save Venice fund and which can still be admired in the garden. The villa was completely restored a few years ago and it is beautifully furnished with antiques.
-- Capri: Villa Faraglioni (BRV FAR -- http://www.wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=901352&pnl=d ) is minutes from the center of Capri and can sleep up to eight.  The villa is decorated with impeccable taste and offers every modern amenity, combining interior luxury with al fresco beauty. Rates are available upon request.
Overall Wimco’s Italian villa inventory numbers 170, with 100 of these in Umbria and Tuscany.
View Wimco’s villa rental portfolio at http://www.wimco.com  or call toll-free 1-800-932-3222 (US) or 44-0870-850-1144 (UK).

Regent Hotels & Resorts Taking Over The Palms Turks And Caicos
On April 2, 2007, Regent Hotels & Resorts ( www.TheRegentExperience.com ) made its Caribbean debut with The Regent Palms Turks and Caicos, a 72-suite luxury resort enclave on Grace Bay Beach. In assuming management of The Palms in September 2006, Regent Hotels & Resorts made a commitment to raise the resort's level of luxury. Its first area of focus was to guarantee the highest service by increasing the staff by 20 percent, offering a higher staff-to-guest ratio. Every aspect of the resort's service, products and activities has been enhanced from new concierge services and spa renovations to higher quality bed linens and new culinary creations.
The Regent Palms Turks and Caicos is situated in one of the world's most stunning environments, featuring a serene English Estate setting that overlooks the turquoise waters of pristine Grace Bay Beach. The resort's 72 luxury guest rooms and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites are housed in five coral stone buildings that form a semicircle around a multi-million-dollar serpentine infinity pool with sun pods - circular, cushioned lounges covered in colorful pillows for deluxe comfort. Accommodations feature personalized in-room amenities, Egyptian cotton linens, vaulted ceilings and custom-made mahogany furnishings. Suites also include kitchens, equipped with Viking appliances and expansive oceanview terraces. The 15,000-square-foot spa is designed by Angel Stewart of Golden Door fame and is renowned for its signature "Mother of Pearl" scrub. Executive Chef Martin Davies - who most recently worked at New York's SoHo House and China Grill - oversees the upscale Parallel23, featuring pan-tropical cuisine, and Plunge restaurant, which offers a more relaxed setting with its swim-up bar and in-water tables. On the beachfront, guests enjoy the use of Hobie Cats®, snorkel equipment, kayaks, windsurf boards and floats.
For reservations or more information on The Regent Palms Turks and Caicos, call (866) 877-7256 or visit www.TheRegentExperience.com.

Apex Hotels Launches Contemporary Property In Edinburgh
Apex Hotels has announced plans for a new hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland. Situated at Waterloo Place at the east end of renowned Princes Street, the property will re-envision an original city landmark. Built on the site of one of Edinburgh’s first hotels, the transformed Apex will offer 180 bedrooms, each with state-of-the-art business facilities and entertainment systems. Features of the $50 million refurbishment include fully-equipped meeting & event spaces, two restaurants and a lounge bar, as well as Apex’s signature ‘Yu Time’ lifestyle & wellness center complete with swimming pool, fitness area, steam room, and sauna. The hotel will open in 2008. Website:
www.apexhotels.co.uk
 
Octogone TERRE Resort & Spa Offering Free Nokia Cell Phones For Guests 
Octogone TERRE Resort & Spa, the newest hotel to open in Marrakech, Morocco, is exemplifying its five-star service by providing guests with a complimentary Nokia cell phone for use throughout their stay. Guests are provided with a Nokia cell phone and all local calls in Marrakech are complimentary. This will enable corporate travelers to immediately conduct business and leisure travelers can call home or be able to access the resort at any time while they are sightseeing around town.
The phone will have pre-programmed numbers for the resort and by speed dialing any number from 1 to 6, a guest will be able to access the department that they need to speak with. For example, if they are shopping in the souks and are having trouble with the language, they can dial 6 and be immediately connected with a translator at the hotel who will translate for them or speak directly with the shopkeeper in the souk to negotiate a price for them.
The cell phone is also handy at the hotel. If a guest is by the pool and wants to order room service — which is called ANYWHERE DINING at Octogone TERRE -- they simply dial this option and never have to get out of their lounge chair!
This guest mobile service is also useful for guests who are out and about in town and want a car to come pick them up, to schedule a spa treatment, or for any reason they need to make a call. International calls are charged at international rates.
Octogone TERRE (Earth) Resort & Spa is a secluded luxury five-star getaway located at the doors of the famous palm grove Palmeraie just 7 kilometers outside of Marrakech and on the road to Casablanca. The 52-room luxury suite property is set on almost 12 acres of land in its own small village. Facilities include three restaurants, a full-service spa, infinity pool, tennis courts, fitness center, golf putting area, and access to nearby world-class golf courses.
TERRE also offers a variety of excursions to give guests a deeper experience of the many aspects of Moroccan life including private shopping tours to the souks (Moroccan markets), day trips to the Atlas Mountains for skiing and hiking, or to Essaouira for the beaches. Exclusive showing of fine Moroccan goods are also offered at the resort.
Octogone Hotels is the brainchild of American entrepreneur Christian Rivadalla who selected the name Octogone because in his own words, "who wants to be square?" Rivadalla is referring to the traditional architecture found in riads or villas throughout Morocco. TERRE is the first of eight planned luxury resorts across Morocco from Octogone Hotels.

The Umstead Hotel And Spa Announces Debut Packages For 2007
The Umstead Hotel and Spa, the region’s newly opened luxury hotel is offering five signature guest packages themed for different interests.  As an independently owned, 150-room property residing lakeside on 12 lush acres, adjacent to the Umstead State Park, the Umstead has been designed to provide a world-class haven for business guests and sophisticated leisure travelers.  All package prices are per room, per night, based on double occupancy. The hotel’s debut packages include:
-- Designed for couples, this package includes: a minimum of two nights of accommodations; breakfast for two at the property’s hallmark restaurant, Herons; $100 credit to the restaurant with a signature plate signed by Executive Chef Phil Evans; chocolate covered strawberries and the choice of red wine, chilled white wine or chilled sparkling wine one evening in their room.  In addition, a 3 p.m. late check-out time is available to encourage couples to relax together before their departure.  Package rates start at $915 and are subject to availability. 
-- Herons Dining Package—This package features an elegant four-course dining experience at Herons and a signature plate signed by Executive Chef Phil Evans.  With a cozy atmosphere in the 98-seat dining room and a charming al fresco terrace overlooking the lake, Herons offers a modern American fare, a reflection of both Herons setting in the agriculturally rich Triangle area of North Carolina and its location in this stunning new contemporary hotel. Package includes a minimum one-night stay and rates start at $509. 
-- Prestonwood Country Club Golf Packages—Guests can tee up at the elite private golf club, Prestonwood Country Club, with the Prestonwood Country Club Double Golf Package.  All visitors will be granted exclusive rights to the prestigious neighboring golf club and will be able to treat themselves to 18 holes of professional-caliber golf on a choice of the club’s three courses: The 6,452-yard, Par 70 Fairways Course; 7,132-yard, Par 72 Meadows Course; and the 7,043-yard, Par 72 Premier Highlands Course. 
For those who would rather spend their time in the spa, while another is busy hitting the links, the Prestonwood Country Club Golf and Umstead Spa Package is also available, offering a $100 credit at the Spa and 18 holes of professional caliber golf with unlimited range balls.  Rates for the double package start at $529, while rates for the single golf package start at $509.  Both packages have a minimum of a one-night stay.
-- The Umstead Spa Package—Guests will be pampered from head to toe at the property’s 14,000 square-foot, full-service Spa. Upon arrival, a special in-room amenity is provided compliments of the Spa.  Customized packages are available to fit the needs of each guest with a $200 spa credit.  As visitors are also encouraged to move at their own pace, a 3:00 pm checkout on the day of departure will be available.  The Umstead Spa is surrounded by natural beauty and incorporates indigenous, botanical products into signature services in order to create a multi-sensory experience.  Featuring 10 treatment rooms including: a spa suite, manicure and pedicure rooms, separate men’s and ladies lounges with fireplaces, “meditation” courtyard and more, the Umstead Spa offers a balanced lifestyle approach, where services are customized and personalized to the guests themselves. With a minimum of a one-night stay, package rates start at $519.
-- The Umstead Wedding Night—Newlyweds can enjoy a warm welcome gift upon arrival and the choice of red wine, chilled white wine, chilled sparkling wine and chocolate covered strawberries in their room. The Umstead’s seamstress will also personalize his and her wedding night bathrobes in remembrance of the wedding night.  In the morning, the happy couple can enjoy breakfast in bed and take advantage of the late check-out at 3:00 p.m. to explore the hotel grounds or to simply relax in the room.  Package rates start at $515. 
The Umstead Hotel and Spa (www.theumstead.com) is nestled against a beautiful three-acre lake, steps away from walking and jogging trails as well as The Umstead State Park. The 150 oversized guest rooms include luxurious furnishings and signature amenities. State-of-the-art technology enhances the customer experience on all levels. Adjacent to the hotel, the plush Spa features the finest treatment rooms, “meditation” courtyard and more. The treatment menu includes a variety of massages, facials, body masks, body polishes and exfoliation treatments, hydro-therapy baths and showers, hand and foot treatments, manicures and pedicures.  For reservations and information, call toll-free at 1-866-877-4141.

 Five Gables Inn & Spa announces Double date Package
 Whether it is a first trip together or a twenty-fifth anniversary, traveling with another couple only doubles the experience of a memorable getaway. Five Gables Inn & Spa in St. Michaels, Maryland announces a vacation package tailored for double daters looking to liven up the ordinary dinner and movie scenario. The Double Date package combines activities and accommodations beginning at $1095 midweek (Sun.-Thurs.) and $1495 for the weekend (Fri. and Sat.), based on double occupancy in two rooms of the same style for two nights.
Couples booking the Double Date package can “double” the fun with group activities including two double kayak rentals for two hours of exploring the Chesapeake Bay from nearby Tilghman Marina; wine tasting at St. Michaels Winery including cheese, crackers and souvenir glasses; and one spa treatment for each guest at St. Michael’s only Aveda Concept Spa at the Inn. Between package activities, couples can explore the shops and boutiques of Talbot Street or retire to their room for alone time with their significant other. The knowledgeable staff at Five Gables Inn & Spa can also provide dining suggestions and make reservations at one of the many fine dining or casual eateries in St. Michaels.
Five Gables Inn & Spa is just a two-hour drive from Baltimore/Washington International Airport and less than a half-day’s drive from most major Mid-Atlantic metropolitan areas. Nestled in the scenic Chesapeake Bay village of St. Michaels, MD, Five Gables Inn & Spa is made up of three charming 19th century homes, capturing the essence of a luxurious, yet comfortable getaway for discerning travelers.  The historic Inn is a haven for relaxation, featuring 20 well-appointed rooms, an Aveda concept Spa, indoor pool, sauna and steam room, as well as The Shops at Five Gables, comprised of B’s Stitches, a fine needlepoint shop, Flying Fred’s, an upscale pet boutique, and a dedicated boutique offering Aveda products.
Five Gables Inn & Spa is located at 209 North Talbot Street, St. Michaels, MD  21663.  For further information on packages and reservations, please call toll free 1-877-466-0100; send an e-mail to info@fivegables.com  or visit www.fivegables.com.

Old Edwards Inn And Spa Announces Elopement Packages
Old Edwards Inn and Spa today announced that it will run special Elopement Packages for the busy spring and summer wedding seasons. Located in the charming mountain town of Highlands, North Carolina, Old Edwards Inn and Spa opened in July 2004 as a luxury 32-room destination resort after a $50 million restoration and expansion, including Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden and the addition of a world-class spa.
Package details are as follows:
Two nights deluxe accommodations in a Luxury Suite or Luxury Spa Suite
Champagne arrival; welcome amenity and evening turndown; Gourmet Continental breakfast each morning; Butler’s Pantry with snacks, fresh fruit and non-alcoholic beverages; rose petal turndown on night of ceremony; three-course dinner for two in Madison's on night of wedding (beer, wine and cocktails additional); bouquet and boutonniere; two-tier wedding cake with fresh flowers; Moet Champagne for toasting; 
special wedding amenity and 50 minute Bliss for Two Couples’ massage
The wedding ceremony will take place in the couples’ Luxury Suite, Luxury Spa Suite or on their private terrace at a mutually agreeable, pre-arranged time.
Price for this two-night package is $2749.00, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Additional nights may be added for family and friends at a discounted rate.
*Floral selections are limited to one color and include a bouquet of roses, matching groom's boutonniere and matching floral cake topper. Choose from off-white, light pink or red roses. The Elopement package is based upon availability and requires a seven-day advance reservation. North Carolina marriage license and a selection of local officiates are provided for each couple.
The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is located at 445 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741, 828-526-8008 or 1-866-526-8008. The Old Edwards Hospitality Group, LLC, founded in 2003, includes the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden, The Farm special events facility, Acorns retail shop; The Lodge at Old Edwards Inn, Rib Shack, The Laundry and Dry Cleaners at Old Edwards Inn and Miss Priss-Charlotte at

Four Seasons to Anchor New Disney Luxury Resort
Walt Disney World Resort has announced two new projects as part of an expansion plan for the resort in Central Florida: a new 900-acre luxury resort anchored by the prestigious Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and a 450-acre retail, dining and lodging district on the western edge of the Disney resort.
Along the northeast border of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney plans to convert its Eagle Pines and Osprey Ridge golf courses into a luxury resort and golf community. The development will include a luxury hotel, 18-hole championship golf course, single- and multi-family vacation homes and fractional ownership vacation homes.
Disney entered into a letter of intent with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts to bring these two complementary and respected brands together to anchor a new world-class family resort destination. “The resort will have all the ingredients needed to create memorable vacations: gracious and caring staff; beautiful surroundings that are thoughtfully designed; and services and amenities that make every experience one to cherish," said Kathleen Taylor, president and chief operating officer, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. "It's an honor to collaborate with Walt Disney World Resort on this project. Walt Disney's reputation for service excellence and exceptional family entertainment amenities is an ideal complement to the values of Four Seasons. Central Florida will be a valuable addition to our family of resorts, particularly since this is a destination our guests already enjoy."
The hotel is expected to open in 2010.

Emerson Resort & Spa Celebrates Grand Opening
Emerson Resort & Spa, in the heart of Hudson Valley a mere two hours from New York City, opened its doors in March and is offering a Grand Opening Spa Free Package.
The Grand Opening Spa Free package showcases the lavish new resort’s many amenities: luxury accommodations in the Silk Road-inspired Inn, a variety of Eastern and Western treatments in the Spa, and gourmet Asian and New American cuisine in the Phoenix restaurant.  The opening package is offered from now to May 24, 2007, based on availability.  Priced at $495 per couple, per night, exclusive of tax and service charge, based on double occupancy, components for this one-night package include luxury accommodations in a 620-square foot Regal Suite overlooking the famed Esopus Creek and with stunning views of nearby Mount Tremper; breakfast and dinner at the new Phoenix Restaurant; lunch at the Spa Café; complimentary Spa treatment per person per stay and all-day access to the spa and fitness center
The Emerson Resort & Spa originally opened in 1996 as Catskill Corners.  The complex features the new Inn & Spa; the family-friendly 27-room Adirondack-style Lodge; a Country Store inside a beautifully restored barn and filled with creative, inspired items; the Catamount Banquet Center, an ideal location for wedding and special events; and the Conference Center, with more than 5,000 square feet of meeting space. Overlooking the Esopus Creek and one of the area’s most majestic peaks, Mount Tremper, this exceptional retreat is within minutes of Woodstock, Rhinebeck and skiing and winter/summer outdoor adventures at Belleayre Mountain. It is two hours drive from New York City.
For more information visit www.emersonresort.com  or for reservations call 877-688-2828.

Several Hilton Head Island Hotels To Receive 'Extreme Makeovers'
Several Hilton Head Island hotels are pumping millions of dollars into renovations set to be unveiled this summer. Newly-renovated properties include:
-- Crowne Plaza Hilton Head Island Beach Resort—This oceanfront resort nestled in the heart of the Shipyard Plantation has invested $2 million to revamp the property's fitness areas, refurbish the guest room furniture and carpet the resort's ballroom. Website: www.cphiltonhead.com
-- Hilton Head Marriott Beach & Golf Resort—The longest-running of the island's resort properties, the Marriott is currently undergoing a $20 million dollar makeover, adding a 6,400-square-foot spa and a newly improved fitness center set for completion in May. Bathrooms in all 512 guest rooms will receive new vanities and common areas will be
     restructured to provide improved views of the island's pristine oceanfront. Website: www.hiltonheadmarriott.com
-- Hilton Oceanfront Resort—The Hilton Resort's allotted $2 million in annual funding for capital improvements will be most recognizable this year in the improved meeting room facilities. Renovations will include new carpeting throughout as well as new desk equipment and brand new beds in each guest room. Website: www.hiltonheadhilton.com
-- The Westin Resort, Hilton Head Island—Unveiling its $5 million in renovations within the coming months, this 412-room resort will be the first in the continental US to feature the Starwood Spa Collection's Heavenly Spa brand. Guests paying a visit to the Westin this summer will also find the resort's common areas, including corridors and carpeting, to have undergone a facelift as well as new lighting throughout the property. Website:
www.starwoodhotels.com
Hilton Head Island is the classic American resort destination for families, couples, and mature travelers, offering 12 miles of pristine beaches, exceptional golf and tennis, a wealth of art and cultural events, and a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment for all ages year-round. For information on visiting Hilton Head Island, contact the Hilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce at 800-523-3373 or visit www.HiltonHeadIsland.org .
Nikko Hotels' New Hotel JAL Fujairah Resort & Spa Opens In May
Nikko Hotels International will open Hotel JAL Fujairah Resort & Spa in the United Arab Emirates on May 15, 2007. The new five-star resort, which is close to completion, will be the first in the Nikko Hotels International group in the Middle Eastern market. Reservations now can be made online at www.jalhotels.com, or by calling 1-800-NIKKO-US.
Fujairah is known for its ideal scuba diving and snorkeling sites. Hotel JAL Fujairah Resort & Spa will feature a diving center and is being built along a third of a mile of private beach. The resort will have 257 guest rooms, all of which face the ocean, as well as a multi-purpose room, indoor and outdoor children's play room, indoor diving pool, outdoor swimming pool, fitness facilities and a spa. The resort is located on the East Coast of U.A.E. and is a 90-minute drive from Dubai.
The hotel is owned by ACICO in Kuwait, and operated by JAL Hotels Co. The 486-room Hotel JAL Tower Dubai, another five-star Nikko Hotel, is scheduled to open in Dubai, U.A.E. in 2008.
Nikko Hotels International is an international luxury hotel group operated by JAL Hotels Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. In addition to Nikko Hotels International, JAL Hotels also operates Hotel JAL City, a chain of 14 mid-priced hotels for business travellers in Japan. JAL Hotels Co., Ltd. has 64 hotels worldwide, in Europe, the Americas and throughout Japan and the Asia/Pacific region. The company plans to open the 171-room Hotel Nikko Northland Obihiro in Hokkaido, Japan, and the 373-room Hotel Nikko Tianjin, China in April, 2007, and the 300-room Hotel JAL Bahrain Resort & Spa, a Nikko Hotel property, in 2009. Website: www.jalhotels.com
 
Preferred Boutique Introduces 'Run From Reality' Adventure Package
Preferred Boutique, an exclusive portfolio of more than 80 member properties, invites travelers to live on the wild side with its new Run from Reality adventure travel package. The package highlights seven properties from Preferred Boutique's Adventure category—Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, The Pines Lodge, Snake River Lodge & Spa, Elk Mountain, The Lodge at Vail, Sundance Resort, and Beaver Creek Lodge. Available between April 1 and August 31, the Run from Reality package includes a minimum of two nights luxury accommodations, a high performance packed lunch, complimentary use of fitness facilities, and a customized, property specific adventure activity such as tandem paragliding, whitewater rafting, or a private horseback riding excursion.
-- The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colorado is an intimate ski-in/ski-out boutique resort hotel that upholds Laurance Rockefeller's founding vision of extraordinary accommodations in stunning settings. Natural rustic pine, heavy tapestries and fresh mountain wildflowers complement this RockResort, nestled among groves of aspen and pine trees with magnificent views. The Pines Lodge adventure begins with two nights accommodations in a spacious lodge room; a high performance packed lunch to be enjoyed while exploring the mountains; and whitewater rafting in the picturesque Rocky Mountains. The package cost is $225 per person.
-- At the base of Beaver Creek Mountain in Colorado, one of the world's top ski resorts, Beaver Creek Lodge offers a sublime retreat of mountain chic luxury. Enter a setting of AAA Four-Diamond excellence, nestled within a charming alpine village steps from shopping, dining and entertainment. Your Beaver Creek adventure begins with two nights luxury room accommodations; breakfast for two at Rocks Modern Grill; one half day rafting trip including a high performance packed lunch; round trip transportation; and the thrill of whitewater rafting in the Rocky Mountains. The package cost is $289 per person.
The charming European-style Lodge at Vail, Colorado combines the rustic nature of Colorado with the elegance and charm of an old-world inn. The Lodge at Vail is nestled at the base of Vail Mountain in the heart of Vail Village, just steps from world-class skiing, shopping and dining. Your Lodge at Vail adventure begins with two nights luxury accommodations; high performance packed lunch; access to the property's Fitness Center; half day whitewater rafting trip; and a half day Jeep tour of the beautiful property countryside. The package cost is $375 per person.
-- Snake River Lodge & Spa in  Jackson Hole, Wyoming is situated close to Grand Teton National Park's south entrance, with Yellowstone National Park nearby, Snake River Lodge & Spa combines the rustic authenticity of a great lodge with the elegance of a luxury hotel. This slope-side hotel is a great ski and snowboard resort surrounded by rugged natural beauty and awesome national parks. Take off on your Snake River Lodge adventure with two nights luxury room accommodations; high performance boxed lunch; and tandem paragliding adventure for two, piloted by a certified instructor. The package cost is $429 per person.
Elk Mountain Lodge in Montrose, Colorado is a spectacular new destination resort nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Just 50 minutes from Telluride, this luxury Southwest Colorado resort gives new meaning to the words nature's playground. It's a place where 275 acres of pristine country bustle with year round outdoor activities, yet overwhelms the soul with peace and serenity. Discover the perfect blend of luxury and seclusion at this new Colorado property, tucked away in a breathtaking alpine setting.
Your Elk Mountain Lodge adventure begins with two nights luxury accommodations and the opportunity to train with a professional defense expert and practice your close quarters self defense and pistol shooting skills. You will also receive a special defense video to remember your experience. The package cost ranges from $625-$2,100 per person.
-- Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in Santa Barbara, Californiat, nestled in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley and the renowned Santa Barbara County wine country, is one such rare retreat. The Alisal has been a hideaway for generations of families, couples and groups since first welcoming guests in 1946. Today, the romance and majesty of the "old west" remain in the Ranch's wide-open spaces and unspoiled natural beauty. Your Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort adventure begins with two nights luxury accommodations; breakfast and dinner daily; unlimited golf green fees; tennis; horseback riding; fishing pole and bait. Guests will also be greeted with an in-room Welcome Basket to take with them on their gourmet picnic overlooking Alisal Lake during their own private horseback ride. The package cost is $1,325 per person.
-- Sundance Resort in Sundance, Utah offers guests a unique getaway experience with beautiful surroundings and impeccable service in a rustic cottage lodging community. Visitors to Sundance Resort just need to spend time on the trails and slopes of the mountain to fully experience this special wilderness preserve. Your Sundance adventure begins with three nights in a Sundance or Mountain suite; complimentary use of fitness facilities; daily breakfast in the Foundry Grill; dinner for two in the Foundry Grill restaurant; dinner for two in the award-winning Tree Room restaurant; and a full-day private Orvis fly fishing trip. The package cost is $1694 per person.
Preferred Boutique, a brand of Preferred Hotel Group, is a prestigious collection of intimate luxury properties worldwide that celebrates distinctive travel experiences by emphasizing exceptional style, service and personality. All Preferred Boutique guests are eligible to enroll in the I Prefer(TM) Global Guest Benefit Program, featuring benefits including free Internet access, early check-in/late checkout, space-available upgrades and more. For reservations and a complete description of the Preferred Boutique collection, please call 877-474-7500 or visit www.preferredboutique.com.

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Ski Destinations & Offers

For latest snow conditions worldwide, click: http://www.snocountry.com/

Snow Condition Reports Now Featured On MyFOX Interactive Websites
SnoCountry Ski Areas Association (www.snocountry.com ), the largest snow conditions reporting agency in the world, has joined forces with Fox Interactive to create a comprehensive map highlighting ski and snowboard conditions throughout North America. This new interactive resort conditions map is featured on MyFOX websites in 26 major US TV markets including 9 of the top 10. An innovative interface allows skiers to obtain up-to-date ski reports for hundreds of ski areas by scrolling across a regional map. A quick click on a ski area icon brings up its most current conditions and trail count and other important information.
The MyFOX interactive ski conditions maps are one part of a major internet presence that Fox has embarked upon. According to Mark Taylor, vice president of weather and mapping services for Fox Interactive, SnoCountry was chosen because its ski and snowboard content is the best. They have worked with us every step of the way to integrate our state-of-the-art mapping with their up- to-the-minute content. We look forward to working closely with SnoCountry as we expand the number of winter sites for Fox Interactive in the future."
The partnership with MyFOX is one of many programs that SnoCountry Ski Areas Association offers to make sure skiers are aware of conditions on their favorite resorts. Hundreds of national and international media partners including The Weather Channel, USAToday.com, The Associated Press, PR Newswire, and Microsoft Live turn to SnoCountry for the most accurate and comprehensive ski, snowboard and cross country conditions in the world. To find additional information on the services provided by SnoCountry, visit www.snocountry.com  or call 603-443-8888.

Spring Skiing More Spectacular With Sunny Skies & Signature Events
Vail Resorts, Inc. has announced that its five mountain resorts—Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone & Heavenly—will host a series of spring events featuring headlining musical performances, unique events and exciting on-the-snow competitions. To complete the spring experience, lodging properties at each resort are offering significant incentives to stay and play now through April 22, 2007.
While springtime remains the best kept secret in snowsports, skiers and snowboarders are catching on to the benefits of vacationing during the months of March and April. Fewer crowds, mild temperatures and sunny skies, soft, easy-to-carve snow, longer days and lower prices make spring the perfect time to learn a snowsport, and a convenient, yet adventurous destination for families with children.
Vail Mountain
March 29-April 1: Best Life Vail Film Festival will screen 63 films from around the world, including 12 feature films and 51 documentaries, short films, Oscar shorts, action sports, and student films. The 2007 Festival opens with a screening of Snow Cake, starring Alan Rickman, Sigourney Weaver, Carrie-Anne Moss, David Fox, Jayne Eastwood, Emily Hampshire and James Allodi. The Festival Tribute Awards will recognize screenwriter, actor and director Harold Ramis with the 2007 Gold Summit Award; the 2007 Rising Star Award will be presented to Sophia Bush, who can be seen in the re-make of horror film, "The Hitcher"; and Hayden Panettiere who currently stars in the NBC Television dram Heroes, will be honored as the 2007 Breakthrough Actor of the Year. For program, tickets and schedule information visit www.vailfilmfestival.org.
April 2-15: Spring Back to Vail, rated the No. 1 ski party in North America by Skiing Magazine, includes live music featuring a free concert with Grammy-nominated reggae sensation Third World on April 7. Kid Rock takes center stage at Ford Park on April 14 and concert tickets go on sale March 24. Spring Back's featured competition, the World Pond Skimming Championships takes place at the base of Golden Peak from 2-5 p.m. on April 14; skimmers are judged on their ability to cross the churning pond of ice cold water as well as their costume creativity. Top off the festivities with incredible lift ticket deals and great lodging packages and see why Vail is the place to be this spring. Visit www.springbacktovail.com.
Vail Spring Skiing Specials April 16-22
Ski Vail for less than $33 per day the final week of the season. Purchase a four-day lift ticket for only $129 (less than $33 per day with additional days available) while kids ages 12 and under ski for FREE and take advantage of fun spring conditions in the Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin. Enjoy picnics on Vail's on-mountain decks and grill up a feast at Belle's Camps first-come first-served gas grills. For details on spring savings visit www.vail.com.
Beaver Creek Resort
March 30 - April 1: "Ski with the Pros." SKI Magazine and Beaver Creek have teamed up to offer testing of the latest ski equipment and exclusive 90-minute ski workshops with top Beaver Creek Ski School instructors and world-class skiers. Weekend festivities also include après-ski parties, product giveaways, free ice skating and an outdoor movie screening of the Director's Cut of Warren Miller's Session57. Ski with a Pro workshops are available free of charge to guests who book lodging in Beaver Creek. Spaces are limited and registration is required. Stay overnight from $152 per person based on double occupancy in a one-bedroom condominium at Seasons at Avon. For lodging reservations and more information about the SKI Magazine Experience, visit www.beavercreek.com  or call (800) 404-3535.
Spring Value Weeks from $318 per person
Enjoy four nights of lodging and a four-day lift ticket per person this spring at Beaver Creek. Price starts at $318 per person based on quad occupancy in a two-bedroom condominium at The Seasons at Avon. A four-night minimum stay is required. Offer is valid April 1-15, 2007. Taxes, surcharge and gratuity not included. Offer based upon availability. Other restrictions may apply. Other dates, rates and properties available. Visit www.beavercreek.com or call (800) 404-3535 or for reservations.
Stay in Beaver Creek from $149 per night
Overnight stays start at $149 per night based on double occupancy in a one-bedroom condominium at Seasons at Avon. An overnight stay at The Pines Lodge, a RockResort in Beaver Creek, starts at $235 per night based on double occupancy in a lodge room. Offers are subject to availability and do not include taxes or surcharges. Offers are valid April 1-15, 2007. Other restrictions may apply. Other rates and properties are available. For reservations, visit www.vbcrp.com or call (800) 859-8242.
Breckenridge
April 1- 22: Spring Massive. Breckenridge's 7th Annual Spring Massive Festival is a fusion of sport, music, family and legendary spring conditions. Find free concerts, daily competitions, a beerfest, nightlife, exhibitions, jams, film shoots, kid's activities and Breck's famous spring snow. For a complete calendar of events, visit www.breckenridge.com .
April 22: Massive Music Weekend. Featuring Julian Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, this rare performance will be a fabulous wrap to an unbelievable season. Julian has devoted himself to a life in music, mastering a variety of instruments and writing songs that reflects his dedication to spiritual uplift and social change. For more information, please go to www.breckenridge.com
$96 at 9,600 feet
With an elevation of 9600 feet, Breckenridge is famous for amazing late season spring conditions. Spring in Breckenridge also means free concerts, daily competitions, a beer fest, nightlife and kid's activities with the 7th Spring Massive Festival. Come experience spring in the mountains for as low as $96 per night. Valid April 1 - 23, 2007 at participating lodging properties. For more information and to book $96 at 9600 feet, go to www.breckenridge.com
Ski Free and Stay Free in Breckenridge for as low as $96 per night
Experience Spring Massive in Breckenridge for as low as $96 per person, per night with Ski Free & Stay Free. Buy three nights of lodging and three days of skiing and get the fourth night of lodging and day of skiing for free. Prices start at $382 per person for bookings April 1-22, 2007. For reservations, call (800) 789-SNOW or visit www.breckenridge.com.
Keystone Resort
April 1 to 21. Catch the high-flying action in Keystone's top-rated A51 terrain park with Snowboarder Magazine's SuperPark event that features the best terrain park designers and the best pro snowboarders. Don't miss the Boarding For Breast Cancer bachelor auction on Friday the 13th featuring pro snowboarders and Keystone's most eligible single men -- all for a great cause. For more information, visit www.keystoneresort.com or call 800-468-5004.
Ski Free & Stay Free
For $300 per person, get two days of skiing/riding and two nights of lodging in a Gateway Mountain Lodge condo and get the third day of skiing/riding and third night of lodging for free. Gateway is within walking distance to the lifts, shops and restaurants of River Run Village. Package includes free activities like wine tasting and yoga class. Rate based on double occupancy, weekdays April 1-14 and includes three nights of lodging and a three-day lift ticket for two adults. For reservations, visit www.KeystoneResort.com  or call (800) 468-5004.
Spring Pampering Package
Keystone just announced plans for an extreme makeover to its spa in the Keystone Lodge, a RockResort. The spa will expand to offer double the number of treatment rooms and state-of-the-art spa amenities. Enjoy your own makeover with a pampering weekend stay in April at Keystone for just $219 per person. The Pampering Package includes accommodations at a two-bedroom condo in the Lakeside Village weekdays until April 15, breakfast each morning and a massage. Restrictions apply. For reservations, visit www.KeystoneResort.com  or call (800) 468-5004.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
April 7: Gunbarrel 25. Hard-core mogul maniacs are invited to challenge freestyle superstar and South Lake Tahoe legend Glen Plake in the annual Gunbarrel 25 competition. This marathon mogul event dares entrants to complete 25 laps over 1,800 feet of vertical on Heavenly's world-famous Gunbarrel run (that's 45,000 vertical feet of moguls). Winners for time and endurance from each of five categories will be rewarded with a commemorative belt buckle and pin. Registration for the event is available on-line at www.skiheavenly.com  and is open to the first 125 entrants.
Buy One Get One Free at Heavenly
Stay two nights and ski two days for the price of one! Prices start as low as $117 per person (the lift tickets alone normally cost more!). Package price is based on double occupancy for a two-night midweek stay at the Big Pines Mountain House with one queen bed, April 1-22, 2007. Featured rate is subject to availability. Other unit types and properties are available and other restrictions and fees may apply. Visit www.skiheavenly.com  or call (800)-HEAVENLY.
The Spring Loaded Royal Flush Package
Treat yourself to a spring ski trip, Nevada style! Spend a minimum of three nights at Harrah's Lake Tahoe, ski or ride two days at Heavenly, and experience Spring Loaded, a month of non-stop parties, special events and spring skiing at Heavenly. This package also includes two-for-one coupons for some of the best restaurants and live shows in town. Pricing for this deluxe package starts at $405 per person, that's just $135 per night for all the action. Price based on double occupancy, mid-week. Weekends and longer stays are also available at varying rates. Packages are available March 18-April 18, 2007. Prices and availability are subject to change. Other restrictions and fees may apply. Visit www.skiheavenly.com  or call (800)-HEAVENLY.

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Travel Destination:  South Carolina

 

Travel This Spring Through South Carolina National Heritage Corridor Gardens

Rose Hill estate gardens
Established by the United State Congress in 1996, South Carolina’s National Heritage Corridor marks the evolution of the state’s historically rich culture and contributions across 14 counties, a total of 240 miles.  The Corridor is split up into two routes: the Discovery Route and the Nature Route. Each route leads travelers to designated stops along highways and interstates to attractions ranging from grand plantations, waterfalls, battle sites, farms, swamps, gardens, mill villages and gentrified downtowns. Visitors to the diverse areas become aware of how history affected South Carolina as a state, and America as a nation.
Visitors can experience the true exuberance of spring while driving through South Carolina’s National Heritage Corridor’s Garden Destinations, which is one of the tours available on the Nature Route. Gardens identified allow travelers to discover the rose, azalea, peaceful parkways, prayer gardens, nature trails, ponds, niche gardens and award-winning botanical collections. Stretching from the foothills of Oconee County, along the Savannah River, to the port city of Charleston, each garden along the route features a unique ambiance and original story to help define the richness of its location.    An array of flora tickles travelers’ senses with the fragrant aroma of roses, azaleas, irises, chrysanthemums, camellias and jasmine at these following garden destinations along in the Heritage Corridor:
The journey starts with the South Carolina Botanical Garden located in the eastern upstate of South Carolina near the border of Georgia and North Carolina at Clemson University.  A 295-acre horticultural and cultural experience awaits travelers.  Highlights include a nationally recognized nature-based sculpture collection, an American Hosta Society display garden, 40-acre arboretum, nature trails, butterfly garden and wildflower meadow. 
The journey continues in the heritage corridor in central South Carolina town of Springfield. This quaint town developed as a railroad and cotton mill community in the early 1900s and showcases a tour of a local merchant’s house museum, a unique heritage rose garden and sculptural centerpieces. 
Travelers are encouraged to linger down the back roads and stop in Aiken, home of Steeplechase. Hopeland Gardens, a 14-acre estate, presents the ideal grounds for a summer stroll among grand 100-year-old oak trees, deodara cedars and magnolia trees.  The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame is located on the grounds and pays tribute to its equestrian contributions. From May through August, patrons can satisfy their hunger for musical tastes with evening concerts at the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage.
Rose Hill—this five-acre “winter colony” garden estate is home of many firsts.  The list includes the first home in Aiken to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the original American home for West Highland Terriers and first arboretum in Aiken. 
Edisto Memorial Gardens is located in Orangeburg. The 150-acre garden is the display site for past and current award winning All-American Rose Selections.  Visitors can always find 4,000 plants, 75 varieties of roses, a mountain brook, a butterfly garden and garden for the sight impaired, as well as a boardwalk through a peaceful cypress wetlands to the scenic blackwater Edisto River.
Located in central South Carolina, the Springfield Community Gardens were built by members of the community to honor an ill friend. The Butterfly Garden inspires rejuvenation with the vibrant perennials, annuals, vines, bubbling fountains and fluttering butterflies.  The second community garden, Springfield Prayer Garden, is filled with all-white flowers and emerald-green foliage, providing a sanctuary for peace and tranquility.
Convenient to Lake Marion, the town of Elloree offers visitors and residents three downtown gardens: Ann Black’s Garden, Amporn’s Gardens and Prayer Alley.  Each garden provides the opportunity to relax while roaming among the downtown shops and restaurants in this revived small town near the legendary Santee Cooper Lakes. 
Nearing Charleston, Summerville is home to the annual Sculpture in the South event and Flowertown Festival. Azalea Park is the perfect location for a romantic walk with reflection ponds, gazebos and azaleas. The newest feature to the garden includes thirteen permanent bronze sculptures. 
Middleton Place, an 18th century rice plantation showcases acres of America’s oldest landscaped gardens, which reflect the symmetry of 17th century European designs.  Here visitors find year-round blooms including rare camellias in winter and azaleas above the Rice Pond in spring.
The place where ornamental azaleas were introduced in the United States and one of the first to popularize camellias—Magnolia Plantation—showcases approximately 500 acres of horticultural highlights including a Biblical Garden, herb garden, camellia garden, and the Tropical Barbados Garden, and an the Audubon Swamp Garden.  Guided tours provide visitors the opportunity to view the natural beauty and wildlife of the grounds while exploring the history of the 300-year-old estate.
Drayton Hall was established in 1738, the main house is one of the oldest plantation houses in America, having survived the Revolutionary and Civil Wars intact. The plantation home remains as historically accurate as the day it was received by the National Trust from the Drayton family in 1974; it remains without running water, electric lighting or central heating. Two scenic trails allow visitors to explore the Lowcountry beauty with ancient oak trees, marshland and remnants of the 18th century rice fields.
Boone Hall Plantation has been opened to the public since 1959. It is one of the oldest working and living plantations in America.  In addition to touring the formal garden located in the front of the plantation home, visitors are able to pick strawberries, peaches and pumpkins at the Boone Hall Farms.
For more information on the garden destinations or South Carolina’s National Heritage Corridor, visit www.sc-heritagecorridor.org.  Maps are available by calling (803) 637-1237.
South Carolina is a destination rich in vibrant landscapes, diverse culture and extensive history. Located on the southeast coast of the United States and bordered by North Carolina and Georgia, South Carolina is acclaimed for approximately 200 miles of idyllic Atlantic Ocean coastline. The Palmetto State is the place to explore nature’s best, unwind in first-class luxury hotels and spas, celebrate at a variety of festivals or find a small-town gem.  Anywhere within its borders, visitors will find smiling faces and beautiful places. For a South Carolina vacation guide, please call the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism at (866) 224-9339.  For more information on South Carolina, visit the website at www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.

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Travel Tours

 

General Tours World Traveler Introduces Piemonte, Italy Vacation Package
Nestled in the Northwest corner of Italy, Torino has been a significant European city for more than two thousand years. From serving as a northern outpost for the Holy Roman Empire to being the capital of the Savoy reign for 300 years to serving as the birthplace of Italy's unification in 1861 to, most recently, hosting the 2006 Winter Olympics, Torino has always been at the forefront of European and Italian living. General Tours World Traveler is pleased to introduce "A Little Tour of Piemonte," a new five-day tour for US travelers that provides an excellent introduction to the region.
In addition to the cultural and religious history to be experienced in tours of the Royal Palace, Egyptian Museum or Holy Shroud, the region of Piemonte that surrounds Torino is famous among gourmands worldwide for its cuisine and red wines. On hills to the south of Torino grows the plump and dark Nebbiolo grape, from which the highly regarded Barolo and Barbaresco wines are made. The same hills also produce the prized white truffle of Alba and hazelnuts. Food and wine are celebrated throughout this region - the ingredients are carefully procured from the land and prepared to be savored.
General Tour World Traveler makes all of this available in style in A Little Tour of Piemonte. The tour includes a private car, driver, tour guide, all first class or deluxe hotels, walking tours of Torino, tour of a winery, truffle-hunting expedition, and much more. The tour price is $1,799 per person, land only. General Tours World Traveler is a partner in AARP's Passport program, and AARP Members save $100 per person on this escorted tour.
General Tours has been providing travelers with extraordinary vacations since 1947, and the pioneering company's 2007 catalog offers the largest selection of worldwide vacations in the market - more than 300 escorted, small ship and privately guided tours to 80 countries on five continents. As the company celebrates its 60th anniversary, it is offering unparalleled savings and special offers, from free hotel nights and upgrades to $300 discounts and complimentary iPods. From January through March, a new offer is unveiled each week day on the company's website.
Call General Tours World Traveler at 800-221-2216 for reservations and information, or click www.generaltours.com.

Breakaway Adventures Offers Tours During Bella Umbria Chocolate Festival
A U.S.-based tour company that specializes in walking and cycling tours in Europe is offering two tours to coincide with this year’s Bella Umbria Chocolate Festival October 13 – 21. The festival, which winds through the historic old town area of Perugia, invites visitors to tastings, demonstrations and shows. In addition, the festival will feature chocolate sculptures, including a three-ton chocolate igloo, free samples, chocolate beauty products and even a “PetChoc” corner for visitors with pets.

Entitled Perugia to Assisi Cycling and Undiscovered Umbria Walk, the independent tours offered by Breakaway Adventures (www.breakaway-adventures.com ) include an on-site English-speaking representative, hotels, continental breakfast and evening meals, and for an additional cost, flights as well. Offered every two days from May 3 to October 14 in 2007, travelers can begin either of the tours in early October to coincide with the popular chocolate festival.
-- The 88-mile cycling tour begins in Ponte Valleceppi just outside Perugia and travels through Assisi, Spoleto and Bevagna before circling back to Ponte Valleceppi. The “2 bike” or moderate-rated tour includes the use of a good quality 21-speed hybrid bike with straight handle bars and panniers.
-- The 39-mile walking tour begins in Campello and overnights in Cerreto, Scheggino, and Monteluco before returning to spend a last night in Campello.  This high-level walking route is rated Upper 2 boots or moderate plus, with some challenging ascents and descents on mountain paths.
Both tours include a pick up and drop off at the Foligno railway station—easily accessible from Rome—and transfer to the first hotel. Also included are the services of the on-site representative, who is available on call for special assistance, including wine purchases en route. 
Known in the travel industry as one of the leaders in walking and cycling tours, Breakaway Adventures is based in South Carolina and offers more than 200 cycling and walking tours each year. For additional information, visit www.breakaway-adventures.com .
All hotels are researched and inspected on-site and selected for their charm and interesting location. Mostly three-star, they range from a country house hotel at the foot of Assisi to the aptly named Hotel Panorama in Cerreto. All of the accommodations along both the walking and cycling tours feature swimming pools, and fine food based on fresh, local produce is guaranteed as part of the packages.  The nine-day, eight-night tours range from $1,599 to $2,141 per person.
Founded in 1997, Breakaway Adventures specializes in relaxed, overseas getaways where guests can walk, cycle, trek or barge through the back roads of 30 countries, including Italy, France, Greece and Great Britain. For more detailed itineraries or to book a tour, visit www.breakaway-adventures.com  or call 800-567-6286.

Snow Lion Expeditions Offers The Ultimate Bhutan Trek 
The Ultimate Bhutan trek is arguably the wildest, remotest and most difficult trek in the Himalayas. Trekers will discover glaciated valleys, alpine lakes, high peaks and remote highland villages. What you won’t find on this trek are internet cafés, cell phones, and the 24/7 TV news cycle. Snow Lion offers a one-of-a-kind, world class travel experience. Be a part of it.
The journey begins at Taktsang, a 1,200-year-old monastery that clings to the side of a cliff 3,000 feet above the valley floor; and it  ends 25 days later half way across the kingdom in Jakar in the Bumthang Valley. Along the route, visit the villages of Laya and Lunana and the base camps of Chomolhari (23,996’) and Gankar Punsum (24,740’) peaks.
Gary Bolton is Snow Lion’s venerable guide for this trek. He brings 30 years of Himalayan guiding experience in Bhutan, Nepal, India, Pakistan and Chinese Turkestan. Gary is a wilderness first responder and a biologist, the kind of guide you want to have along in Bhutan’s outback. Aside from his impressive credentials, Gary’s affable character and keen ability to translate the subtle nuances of Himalayan cultures, promises the adventure of a lifetime. Website: www.snowlion.com  

Combine Sacred Music With An Historical Church Tour In The UK
New York’s famous St. Thomas Choir of Men and Boys is known for its high-quality presentation of sacred music in the Gothic St. Thomas Church located at West 53rd Street and Fifth Avenue. This summer the choir is traveling to the UK to perform at some of the most famous cathedrals in the country and is inviting travelers to join them. The
18-day choir pilgrimage of Music and Worship takes place July 6 to July 23, 2007.
The Anglican Heritage tour will begin in Edinburgh, and the choir will sing in both
the city Cathedrals—St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral and St Giles’ on
the first Sunday of the tour. From Bonnie Scotland the tour moves further south ending in Royal Windsor. En route, the choir will sing in the magnificent cathedrals of York, with its miracle of mediaeval stained glass; Durham, the ancient shrine of St Cuthbert
which towers above the city; St Albans, another ancient site of pilgrimage and St Paul’s, the nation’s Cathedral. In addition, the choir will be singing in Westminster Abbey, the House of Kings; St George’s Chapel in the shadow of Windsor Castle; St John’s College,
Cambridge, and Wakefield Cathedral., perhaps less familiar, except
to the writer who sang there as a boy!
Rates for the Anglican Heritage Tour to Edinburgh • Durham • York • Wakefield • St. Albans • Cambridge • London • Windsor are inclusive from New York and are
$4,299.00 p.p. double occupancy; $1,587.00 single supplement and $261.00 p.p. departure taxes and fees
For further information, please contact 40 Triangle Center • Yorktown Heights, NY 10598; Tel: 1-914-245-8825; fax: 1-914-962-3320; email: @yahoo.com or visit
www.tvlemporium.com 

Tuscan Way Introduces Two Extensive Wine Tours With Private Visits
Tuscan Way, a specialized provider of cooking vacations and custom tours to Italian destinations, takes guests along Tuscany’s Road of Wines on new four- and seven-day wine tours during the wine harvest and festival season—September through November—focusing on the wineries of Chianti, Scansano and Montepulciano.  Highlights include private visits to some of the oldest and most notable vineyards and cellars, including Del Redi and Castle Badia a Passignano, where two of the kings of Tuscan wine—Morellino and the Vino Nobile of Montepulciano—are produced. 
more extensive of the two tours, for guests staying at Villa Gaia, a charming country estate outside the town of Seggiano, includes 15 tastings, many lead by master sommeliers at the vineyard estates or at lunches where guests are instructed on the pairings of food and wine and the characteristics of the numerous outstanding vintages.  Guests staying for a week at La Locanda del Prete—a large medieval home and country inn once owned by the local matchmaker centrally-located in the region of Grosseto—partake in ten tastings, with either their guide, master chef and sommelier-in-training, Romeo Innocenti, doing the lesson, often over lunch at a local trattoria or with an expert sommelier.  The four-day La Locanda del Prete includes six wine tastings.
Several of the notable wine excursions include Del Redi,  the oldest wine cellar in Montepulciano, where tastings take in Vitigno, Vin Santo and a Vino Nobile di Montepulciano—Briaero—made from only the top ten percent of the 70,000 bottles produced annually; a Morellino Riserva, poured by the president of the Scansano company that produces it; a tour of the cellar and tasting at one of Italy’s oldest producers of wine, the Antinori family at the Castle Badia a Passignano, known for their excellent Chiantis; several select Brunello and Riserva wines at the estates of La Fortuna and La Fornacce; and an afternoon tasting at La Parrina, one of the largest producers in the Tuscan region of Maremma.
Wine is not the only focus of the tours – wonderful meals are planned around the tastings at or near the wine estates or at local trattorias, often in the company of master sommeliers or Romeo.  Excursions take in the town of Montepulciano with its architectural masterpieces by Rossellini; the region of “La Maremma,” known for its Estrucan culture and promixity to the beautiful Tuscany seaside; the classic fortress town of Montalcino with its intact medieval castle; and the idyllic seaside towns of Porto S. Stefano, Porto Ercole and Talamone.
Guests staying at Villa Gaia are picked up in Rome and driven to the estate which borders the ruins of the ancient monastery founded by San Bernardino and extends on rolling hills through vineyards, olive groves, forests and fields.  Accommodations are in the main villa and a second house, La Foresteria, and guests have full use of the swimming pool, satellite television, mountain bikes and the many trails on the property.
Guests staying at La Locanda are picked up in Grosseto and taken to Arcidosso, a small medieval village where the company maintains their 1,000-year-old home next to the local castle.  La Locanda is set just outside the village and is a five-bedroom (all with private baths) family inn with balconies, trattoria and an outside dining/sitting area. 
The prices for the Villa Gaia program is $3,590 per person, double; La Locanda del Prete is priced at $2,290 for seven days and $1,150 for four.  Both tours include wine tastings – 15, 10 and 6, respectively -- six nights' accommodations; all meals, with Tuscan wines; transportation throughout, including airport transfers; and all excursions.  Single supplement ranges from $300 to $400.
Reservations, brochures and information can be obtained from Tuscan Way, 2829 Bird Avenue, PMB 242, Coconut Grove, FL, 33133; telephone (800) 766-2390 or (305) 598-8368, fax (305) 598-8369. Website: www.tuscanway.com.

Gutsy Women Travel Offers Seven-Day Culinary Tour Of Quebec
Gutsy Women Travel, one of the leading tour operators for women, is offering a seven-day Magic of Canada culinary tour through Montreal and Quebec City. Highlights include a cooking class, high tea at the renowned Chateau Frontenac, sampling local pleasures in Chinatown, and a visit to one of Montreal's open-air food markets.
The cooking class menu features an array of French-Canadian specialties including Marinated Quebec Lake Trout, Sauteed Duck Foie Gras, Duck Magrets, and Maple Souffle. Afterwards, participants relax for a late lunch with a glass of wine and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
On this tour, participants will enjoy a tour of the Montreal Biodome and world-famous Botanical Gardens, as well as a full-day culinary romp thorugh Old Montreal.
In Quebec City, travelers stay within walking distance of all major sites, shops, and sidewalk cafes in the heart of the historic district. Fusing old world charm and stylish modernity, French flair and gourmet cuisine, Montreal and Quebec City offer all the air and excitement of metropolitan haunts with equally inspiring scenery.
The tour includes three nights at the Le Saint Sulpice in Montreal; three nights at the Hotel Manoir Victoria in Quebec City; six breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners; roundtrip airport transfers and First Class rail transportation between Montreal and Quebec City. This tour is priced from $2,699 per person, based on double occupancy, land only. Departure dates are July 11 and August 1.
For further information, please email info@gutsywomentravel.com . For reservations, call (866) IMGUTSY.

Asia Transpacific Journeys Designs 17-Day Insider’s Vietnam
Asia Transpacific Journeys (ATJ) announces a new in-depth exploration of Insider's Vietnam, a 17-day program for small groups of up to 16 passengers that delves deep into the urban and rural scenes of today’s Vietnam. Travelers trek in the hill tribe areas, mountain bike, sea kayak, cruise rivers, discover ancient archeological sites, and enjoy luxurious accommodations. It’s the ultimate journey in the The Land of Nine Dragons.
The featured destinations include Hanoi, Coc Lyl, Sapa, Su Pan, Thanh Phu, Ban Ho, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Danang and Saigon. Along the way guests witness down-to-earth rural, decadent dynastic, and buzzing urban scenes. They utilize local-style locomotion and retreat at day’s end to the country’s most luxurious hotels.
Included in the per-person land costs of $4,995 are highest end accommodations, nearly all meals, transfers, visa fees, tips, entrance fees, medical and emergency insurance and a comprehensive pre-departure packet. ATJ can also arrange international air through its in-house air department. (On a customized trip for just a couple or two friends, the daily rate inclusive of all of the above is $250 per day.)
For 2007 ATJ’s ever-expanding itineraries of Small Group Trips and Custom Journeys encompasses over 20 countries in North Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Some trips also support global conservation and cultural preservation. ATJ’s own non-profit Asia Transpacific Foundation, established in 1998, works with rural Asian communities to provide clean drinking water through locally made ceramic water filters.
For more information please see www.asiatranspacific.com  or call toll free 800-642-2742.

Ritz Tours Adds Visits To Singapore, Hong Kong to Majestic Yangtze & Asia Tour
Offering travelers the opportunity to experience the magnificence of China’s Yangtze River and the wonders of Asia, Ritz Tours has expanded its Majestic Yangtze & Asia itinerary to 21 days (three more days than in the past) as well as added Singapore and Hong Kong on the itinerary. The program is part of Ritz’s Tours Premiere Series of tours, which feature super-exceptional inclusions such as the best hotels in each city, leading cuisine (including at least one dinner in each hotel), top-class entertainment performances, and enhanced comfort with a maximum group size of 24.
The Majestic Yangtze & Asia tour starts in the cosmopolitan port city of Shanghai. Standing as a testament to past international influences, the mile-long stretch of road along the Huangpu River known as the “Bund” features a bustling financial district lined by buildings of European heritage. A city tour includes a visit to the Ming Dynasty Yu Garden, a drive along the popular shopping area of Nanjing Road, and some time at the Shanghai Museum. Nighttime entertainment of a performance of Chinese Acrobatics, one of China’s oldest performing arts, is a thrilling treat.
From Shanghai, participants board a flight to Yichang where they will set sail on the Yangtze River on Victoria Cruises’ newest ship, the Victoria Anna, where they will experience superior levels of quality and service. The Victoria Anna sails from Yichang to Chongqing and includes visits to the Three Gorges Dam Site at Sandouping, the largest interlocking dam project in the world; the Three Gorges – Xiling Gorge, Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge; Wushan for sails through the Smaller Gorges; and shore excursions to Fengdu, nicknamed the “Ghost City,” among other stops.
The sail ends in Chongqing where travelers enjoy a spicy Sichuan lunch followed by plane ride to the 5,000-year-old-city of Xian, known as the starting point of the famed Silk Road. Highlights include the massive City Wall, cited as the best preserved ancient wall structure on earth, and the impressive Terra Cotta Warriors. Dumplings are the centerpiece of many Chinese meals, and the Imperial Dumpling Banquet in Xian delivers a decadent dinner with more than 180 varieties of this tasty treat. The evening culminates with an enjoyable Tang Dynasty Stage Show.
Next on the program is Beijing, home of the 2008 Summer Olympics and China’s capital city. Sightseeing excursions bring travelers to the Temple of Heaven, the sprawling Great Wall, the Ming Tomb Museum, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City (the world’s largest palace complex and home to the Ming and Qing emperors). A special tour by pedicab of the Hutongs allows travelers to experience the sights and sounds of Old Town Beijing with its narrow paths and ancient courtyard houses. Nighttime dining includes a traditional Peking Duck Feast and a savory Local Specialty Cuisine Feast.
After Beijing, tour participants head to Bangkok, the City of Angels, where guests will immerse themselves in the cultural, spiritual, commercial and political essence of Thailand’s capital city. Attractions include the Emerald Buddha Temple; the royal splendor of the Grand Palace and Coronation Hall; world-famous Damnern Saduak Floating Marketing, Thailand’s largest and most photographed floating market on Bangkok’s timeless klongs (canals); and the Rose Garden.
Following Bangkok on the itinerary is the Lion City, of Singapore, which was established in the early 19th century. Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore today is know for its old world charm and new world appeal. A half-day sightseeing tour includes visits to Merlion Statue, the famous Botanical Garden, and Chinatown.
The Majestic Yangtze & Asia tour concludes in Hong Kong where travelers will enjoy a half-day city tour with stops in Stanley Market, Repulse Bay and the Aberdeen’s Floating Community, as well as a cable car ride up to Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of Hong Kong and its harbor.
Priced from $4,699 per person, based on double occupancy, the 21-day Majestic Yangtze & Asia tour features roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco (starting at $4,849 per person, double, from JFK in NY); airfare between cities visited in Asia; accommodations in five-star hotels (the St. Regis Hotel in Shanghai, the Sofitel Hotel in Xian, the Ritz-Carlton Financial Street in Beijing, the Peninsula Bangkok in Bangkok, the Oriental Singapore in Singapore; and the InterContinental Grand Stanford – Harbour View in Hong Kong); sightseeing in air-conditioned motor coaches; meals and entertainment per the itinerary; and the services of knowledgeable tour guides.
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Departure dates are available from the beginning of April through the end of October. Single supplements cost an additional $2,300 to $2,800 per person depending upon the date of departure. Add-on airfares are available for departures from various cities in the U.S. and Canada (including, but not limited to, Boston, Miami, Philadelphia, Dallas, Chicago and Toronto). Add-on prices start from $150 per person depending on gateway.
Ritz Tours provides Travel Protection Insurance at no additional cost to travelers who confirm their reservations and make final payment at least 60 days prior to departure. This benefit yields a savings of approximately $150 per person.
For more information, see your local travel agent or contact Ritz Tours at 208 S. First Street 2nd Fl., Alhambra, CA 91801; telephone: (800) 900-2446/(626) 289-7777; fax: (626) 281-0117. Visit Ritz Tours at www.ritztours.com  or send e-mail to china@ritztours.com.

Special Austria in April Nordique Package Begins at $689
Come to Innsbruck for the food, music, art and culture by taking advantage of Nordique Tours' Innsbruck, Austria special throughout April. Visiting Innsbruck is the best of two worlds—urban sophistication of a historic town and an Alpine playground.
The Nordique Tours package includes round-trip airfare to Innsbruck from New York's JFK or Boston on Lufthansa Airlines (travel from other gateways also available), overnight accommodations at the historic Hotel Europa Tyrol, daily breakfast and all hotel taxes and service charges. Travelers have the option of staying three nights at $689 per person, double occupancy, or a seven nights at $989 per person.
Housed in a traditional Austrian building dating from 1860, Hotel Europa has been known as the residence of nobility throughout its history. Guests have included Queen Elizabeth II, Shah of Iran and the Apollo 14 crew. This charming hotel is centrally located and offers the visitor many amenities including sauna, steam bath and solarium. Its award-winning restaurant Europastuberl is the best in town and serves local specialty dishes. An extra night stay with breakfast is $75 per person, double occupancy, or $115 for single.
The cost of the Innsbruck package is based on Thursday departures in April; travel on other days is also available, but the price may be higher. The package price does not include air taxes that are approximately $289 per person. The price also varies depending on the US departure city beyond Boston or New York City (JFK). The package price from those gateways is listed below:
For more information about Nordique Tours special Austria in April package, call 1-800-995-7997 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. PST) or visit its website at www.picassotours.com.
Nordique Tours is owned and operated by Picasso Travel, one of the largest air consolidators in North America in business for more than 27 years. Picasso Travel is a member of ASTA, IATA, CLIA, USACA, ARC and BTC.

Picasso Tours Offering Spring Specials In Germany
Picasso Tours is offering a Cruise the Rhine tour that visits Cologne’s Cathedral, the metropolis of Berlin, Leipzig, Nuremberg, and travels along the Romantic Road and much more. For those who want to visit the highlight cities of Germany, this 12-day vacation package by Globus journeys is a perfect fit. Packages start at $1,579 including airfare for traveling from April to October. Offer available until sold out. Website: www.globusjourneys.com
Picasso is also offering a Cul-tour package in Baden-Württemberg The Cul-tour package in Karlsruhe includes a one or two night stay including breakfast as well entry to the Baden State Museum, the Staatliche Kunsthalle art museum, the Center of Art and Technology ZKM and current special exhibitions. Visitors also receive a welcome card for free use of public transportation. The package starts at 85 Euro per person in a double room and is available year round. www.tourismus-bw.de (German only).

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Travel Alerts & Information

 

Warnings and advice covering travel and health issues in countries can be found at the Department of State (DOS) homesite at http://travel.state.gov/.  
-- Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid a certain country. The countries currently listed can be found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html.
-- The State Department issues Public Announcements to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term conditions that pose significant risks or disruptions to Americans. The current Public Announcements are listed at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1766.html .
-- Information on countries can be found in the Consular section of the DOS website at
 http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html . The website also provides information on Avian Flu per country and any other endangerment issues such as child abduction.

NOTE:  With trouble flashpoints erupting around the world, Americans are urged to record their out-of-country trip itineraries/residences along with passport details and email addresses with the State Department to receive assistance in case of emergency. Visit the Travel Registration Service/DOS at  https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/home.asp 

For more information on security measures implemented at airports and other travel venues, visit the US Transportation Security website at  http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm or the US Dept. of Homeland Security website at http://www.dhs.gov/xtrvlsec.

Travel Health Warnings can be obtained from from the US Government Printing Office Health Information for International Travel by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which gives a global rundown of disease and immunization advice and other health guidance, including risks in particular countries. The CDC maintains the international travelers hotline at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747), an automated faxback service at 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299) and a website at http://www.cdc.gov. CDC’s Traveler’s Letter is at http://www.cdc.gov/travel.
For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad as well as medical inoculations, as well as other travel-health information, consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/en .

NOTE ON PASSPORTS:  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requires all air travelers to the US to have a passport or other secure document by January 23, including Americans returning from Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.  In addition, all travelers by land and sea must meet this requirement by an unspecified deadline not later than 1 June, 2009. A new website, www.GetAPassportNow.com was established by the travel industry to inform travelers about new passport requirements and to help them get passports.